The Biggest Loser: Canine

Lara Has Moved

2011-06-15T09:22:00.000-07:00

Lara and her family and friends have moved to a new blog at "A Nose for News." We look forward to welcoming you to our new home!

Off to Visit Dr. Harrison for VOM Treatment for Barney's Injured Spine

2011-06-07T09:48:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Barney began exhibiting what is called "foot drop" on our evening walks at Dog Beach. Other symptoms followed including his rear legs giving out beneath him, trouble standing and incontinence. I knew there was only one thing to do: visit Dr. John Harrison, a chiropractor and practitioner of veterinary orthopedic manipulation (VOM) at the Acacia Animal Health Center in Escondido. Followers of this blog might remember that Dr. Harrison treated Lara while she went through her dramatic weight loss in 2009. Dr. Carmine Bausone, a veterinarian, and also practitioner of VOM at Acacia, examined Barney and gave him the green light for treatment under Dr. Harrison's care. (Click photos below to view videos.)

Our first visit was Sat., May 28. Dr. Harrison initially petted and stroked Barney to get a sense of him. When he ran his hand along Barney's back, he stopped suddenly and explained that he noticed considerable inflammation. As he worked on Barney, I mentioned that the veterinarian who examined him immediately after I began fostering him in August 2009 took x-rays of his hip. The vet noted, "He has a little arthritis, but it's not bad for an old dog." At that time, he estimated Barney's age to be 8. He lowered the age to 4-6 years the next visit when Barney began responding to medication, good nutrition and old-fashioned TLC.

Dr. Harrison suggested that it would be helpful if I could get a hold of those x-rays.

I had them with me when we arrived for treatment last Sat. I explained that Barney was already walking better after the first VOM treatment, and his legs were collapsing less frequently. Dr. Harrison was pleased with the news, then became serious as he examined the x-rays. He excused himself, then brought veterinarian Dr. Klotz into the room for a second opinion. What they saw was arthritis of the vertebral spine caused by a previous trauma(s) to the joints or muscles. I thought, "With a name like 'Cujo,' his bottom teeth ground down to the gum line, and a severe infestation of maggots in his ears and anus, and now this, what other horrors did Barney endure in his previous life?"

The good news is that Dr. Harrison said Barney's backbone didn't look like that of an old dog. He was reassuring, adding that he was confident that VOM treatment would help ease Barney's pain and enable him to remain mobile. Barney loved the treatment and attention. Like the previous week, he was a little wobbly afterwards, but that subsided by the next morning.

Per Dr. Harrison's request, I brought Lara along on Saturday for one of his "VIP" VOM treatments. After examining her, Dr. Harrison reported that she was in the same, fit condition as the last time he saw her in Dec. 2009 and wouldn't require any additional treatments for a while.

Two days after our visit with Dr. Harrison, I took Barney, Lara and Ollie for a walk through San Dieguito Park. You can see from this video (above) that Barney is on the mend again, enjoying life.

If you are interested in making an appointment with Dr. Harrison, call the Acacia Animal Health Center at (760) 745-8115. The center is located at 655 Citracado Parkway, Escondido. Dr. Harrison also works on other animals including rabbits, cats, dogs and even horses. I first met Dr. Harrison two years ago when I was assigned to write a story about his work for Today's Local News, published by The San Diego Union-Tribune. If you're interested in learning more about VOM, click here.

Arden Moore: “America’s Pet Edu-Trainer"

2011-05-21T13:13:00.000-07:00

As a reporter and pet lover, I thought I knew just about everyone in North County who was involved in some aspect of animal rescue and education. Well, I didn't. Last week I had the pleasure of meeting the dynamic Arden Moore when I interviewed her for a feature in The Coast News, "Ex-reporter finds new calling: pet expert."

Arden fell off my radar because she's frequently out of town, traveling around the U.S. making appearances on The Today Show, Fox News, The George Lopez Show and Martha Stewart Living, to name a few.

Each week she hosts the “Oh Behave!” show on Pet Life Radio where she’s interviewed celebrity pet owners from Betty White and Jennifer Aniston to Rachael Ray.

She's written more than 20 popular books about pets, and has been profiled in The New York Times and the National Enquirer.

Arden spent much of her career as an investigative reporter with the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. What I want to know is, 'What's in the water down there?" Arden worked alongside another reporter-turned-bestselling pet author: John Grogan, who penned “Marley and Me.”

Since her newspaper days, Arden has carved out a successful career doing what she loves as a pet expert, behaviorist, public speaker, author -- and now a PetTech certified first aid, CPR and safety instructor.

You can meet Arden, and preview her class, in this short video I filmed in her Oceanside home which she shares with her rescue dogs Cleo and Chipper, and cats Zeki and Murphy.

Arden's planning a National Dog Party Day on June 24.

For more information about Arden, click here.

Maggie's Celebration of Life, May 14, 2011

2011-05-14T18:04:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Larry Abgarian for this wonderful photo. From left: Maggie's son, Chris Theobald; husband, Ian Thompson; and Maggie.

It was a glorious day at Quail Botanical Gardens today as we celebrated the life of Encinitas councilwoman and former mayor, and animal advocate, Maggie Houlihan.

Relatives and friends including Supervisor Pam Slater-Price and Republican and Democrat office holders from Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach and Del Mar laughed, cheered and shed an occasional tear as we gathered in a enchanting pocket of the Gardens to share memories and a gourmet vegan and vegetarian buffet. Long-time Encinitas resident and friend Jack Tempchin and his band provided music. Tempchin is known for writing many popular songs including The Eagles' "Peaceful, Easy Feelin'" and "Already Gone."

You can share in the celebration by viewing clips online:

Pam Slater-Price Presenting Maggie with a Proclamation making May 14 "Maggie Houlihan Day."

Maggie's son, Chris Theobald, sharing some very funny memories.

Maggie's husband, Ian Thompson, sharing more (hilarious) memories about "life with Maggie."

A young woman uses a Buddhist allegory to describe what Maggie has meant to her as a mentor after meeting through House Rabbit Rescue.

Maggie shares her thoughts.

Maggie was once featured in The Saturday Evening Post magazine for country dance moves she shows again here.

"Baby, I was born this way"

2011-05-13T11:05:00.000-07:00

"The Life and Times of Maggie Houlihan,"
The Coast News, May 13, 2011
Lillian Cox

Last week I had the privilege of being asked to profile Encinitas councilwoman and former mayor, Maggie Houlihan for The Coast News.

I remember meeting Maggie around 1990 at the Olivenhain Meeting Hall for a small gathering of people concerned about the high euthanasia rate at county shelters brought on by pet overpopulation. That meeting was part of Maggie's effort to establish what is now known as SNAP (Spay Neuter Action Project). A few years later she founded Wee Companions, another rescue group for hamsters, guinea pigs and rats. Maggie has also been very active in the House Rabbit Society and turtle rescue. In fact, when she won a libel suit against a political opponent who posted a sign reading "Houlihan is a whore" along Interstate 5 during the 2006 election, she used her $6,000 judgment (after paying the attorneys) for a new enclosure for rescued turtles who live on her property. She told me, "I couldn't in good conscience spend the money on myself."

What some people may not know is that Maggie has fought just as valiantly for the disabled, seniors and other underserved members of our community. I remember during our interview her explaining: "I grew up always sensitive to suffering and injustice. I didn’t like eating meat or people making fun of kids in class who were heavy.”

While Maggie battles endometrial cancer, she continues to fight the good fight by inspiring young people to get involved in politics through lectures she gives on local government at San Dieguito Academy and MiraCosta College.

Maggie is one of those rare and beautiful people you meet in life who marches to her own drum, inspiring others to follow their hearts and minds to also do the right thing. As the expression goes, "When God made Maggie Houlihan, He broke the mold."

Romeo Debuts Last Night During American Idol

2011-03-31T07:46:00.000-07:00

After posting the story (below) about my visit with Romeo ME K9 3, I was surprised to see the number of hits on the blog escalate by the hundreds. The local news later picked up on the story as I discovered last night while watching American Idol. During the final minutes, the show cut to a teaser for Fox 5 San Diego 10 o'clock news featuring Romeo hard at work at the Medical Examiner's office.

Later I learned that Channel 8, the CBS affiliate, also did a terrific story on Romeo.

CSI: San Diego K9? Introducing Romeo, ME K9 3

2011-03-29T11:16:00.000-07:00

Three weeks ago Romeo was among the many sad, homeless faces at the Central Shelter in San Diego.

Today, he is the latest member of the elite, K9 search and rescue team in the County Medical Examiner's office, the only unit of its kind in the nation.

Last Saturday I had the pleasure of meeting Romeo at his new home that he shares with San Diego County Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Glenn Wagner and his wife, Joan. Also there to greet me was the Wagner's Chesapeake retriever, Cocoa Bean, and LuLu, another former shelter dog who became ME K9 2. Last summer, as she began her job, I profiled LuLu in this blog and The San Diego Union-Tribune.

When I took LuLu's picture in the walk-in refrigerator her first day of work it was apparent, by her ears which were pinned back, that she was not completely comfortable in her new environment. Dr. Wagner reports that Romeo, to the contrary, has enthusiastically embraced the scents associated with his job. (I think it's a guy thing.)

Romeo is only 5 months old, and still growing. Over the next 18 months he'll be trained in air sniffing, tracking and trailing with the goal of being a FEMA-certified cadaver dog assigned to the John & Jane Doe Center, a component of the Investigations Division of the Medical Examiner's office. Chief Medical Examiner Investigator Gretchen Geary, head of the division, is responsible for coordinating in-house efforts to identify some 200-300 John & Jane Does each year.

"We have a 97 percent identification rate which is quite remarkable and the center has received national recognition," Dr. Wagner reports.

Geary is also the owner/trainer/handler of Thelia, ME K9 1, a 6-year-old, FEMA-certified bloodhound. Together, they are involved in all search and recovery efforts, working regularly with Sheriff's Search and Rescue, Border Patrol and Southwest Search Dogs, a volunteer group.

In recruiting Romeo and LuLu for his department, Dr. Wagner explained that he relied on the pool of dogs available at the three county shelters, regularly viewing dogs on the Department of Animal Services' website. "I think shelter dogs deserve a chance," Dr. Wagner said. LuLu is pictured here with 11-year-old Cocoa, who is occasionally called upon to work in the ME's office, specifically in their nationally-acclaimed Bereavement Center.

I was heartened to see LuLu's transformation from a skittish rescue pup to a confident, well-adjusted dog. My presence obviously didn't deter Romeo and her from enjoying a lazy Saturday afternoon snooze.

Romeo and LuLu demonstrate that shelter dogs can excel, not only as loving family members, but as working dogs -- even public servants. Perhaps their story will inspire a new TV series: CSI: San Diego K9?

Fly Away Home

2011-03-15T15:06:00.002-07:00

Joey returned last week for his first visit after leaving Encinitas last June to begin his freshman year in the Foreign Service School at Georgetown University. I grabbed my camera and videotaped his reunion with Lucy, curious to see if she remembered him. . .and did she ever! The two grew up together. Lucy was 3 and Joey 9 when he introduced himself to our family -- 10 years ago next month.

Joey posted the reunion video on his YouTube channel this morning after returning to GU and in the background included a song he wrote/recorded back then about our friendship titled, "Mirror Image." To fully appreciate how precious he was as a young child, and devoted to animals, here he is performing to a panel of judges on Star Search in 2003 that included Naomi Judd, Ben Stein, Dweezil Zappa and Donny Osmond. I love this video!

2011-03-15T15:06:00.001-07:00

Paralyzed Lulubelle says, "Eat My Dust!"

2011-02-24T16:42:00.000-08:00

I love what I do. As a feature writer, I have the opportunity of going out into the community and meeting people who make a difference. That's what happened on Sun., Jan. 30 when I met Dr. Michael Blott, a chiropractor who makes carts, aka wheelchairs, for small shelter dogs in order to improve their chances of avoiding euthanasia and, hopefully, getting adopted by a loving family.

Equally impressive was the dedication of Jenny Armour, founder, Open Arms Rescue who brought Lulubelle to pick up her new cart at Michael's home. A young chihuahua, Lulubelle was paralyzed after being hit by a car. Jenny was so loving and patient in caring for Lulubelle, making sure she was comfortable and that her diaper was clean. She also bought some tiny leather booties for Lulubelle to wear so she wouldn't scrape her knees when she dragged herself around.

I wrote about the transformation in an article in The San Diego Union-Tribune today. You can see Lulubelle before she got her cart, and afterwards when her life changed, on YouTube. What I found most remarkable was that Michael reported that about half the dogs he fits for carts eventually walk again. And 100 percent get homes within 30 days of receiving their cart.

Mike Dougherty Judges Westminster Dog Show

2011-02-19T07:31:00.000-08:00

Mike and Michelle Dougherty, owners of the Windsong Resort for Pets in Escondido, had an exciting Valentine's Day in New York City. Mike was there for the Westminster Dog Show in Madison Square Garden where he was a judge.

"It was my fourth invitation to judge there...always an huge honor," he said. "I was pleased to judge a number of Hound breeds: Dachshunds, Basenjis, Norwegian Elkhounds, Otterhounds, and Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen - approximately 90 entries in all."

Click here to watch Mike judging Smooth Dachshunds and Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen.

Meanwhile, Michelle, a gifted artist and Bonsaiist, had her own schedule of events, meeting with literary agents and prospective publishers for her first book, "Bonsai Ten."

Meet "Beekers," 3-Legged Rescue is Biggest Loser (and Winner) in 2011!

2011-01-02T10:19:00.000-08:00

Okay, here's a great story to start your new year. Last week I had the pleasure of doing a feature article about Beekers, a 3-legged golden retriever stray who was picked up by a Good Samaritan in Rancho Bernardo on Dec. 9. He was taken to the Carlsbad shelter and on Dec. 21 was adopted by Debbie Schroeder, wife of Vista firefighter Jeff Schroeder. Beekers weighed 81 pounds when he arrived at the shelter, and was already down to 73 by the time he went home. His goal weight for the new year is 63.You can read Beekers' story here.

Survivor Aaron Bembaron Launches Pet Sitting Business in Time for the Holidays

2010-11-29T07:58:00.000-08:00

From left: Baxter, Aaron Bembaron and Lara.

Lara, like all dogs, is a great judge of character. About three weeks ago I was on Dog Beach with my three pups and for a split second lost track of her. I quickly turned around and saw her being cuddled by a lovely lady, Lauri Bembaron. Her husband, Aaron, was standing behind her smiling at the two. We started laughing, and conversation became easy with the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset.

Aaron mentioned that he was starting a dog walking and pet sitting business after a difficult period that included bankruptcy and losing the family home. These events paled in comparison to the anguish they experienced when his beloved golden retriever, Bear, was diagnosed with a rare cancer last May, followed by Aaron receiving a diagnosis of lung cancer in June. Sadly, Bear passed away. Aaron's physician noted that the spot on his lung was small and suggested a "wait and see" approach to determine if it might be a benign nodule.

Aaron and Lauri were working in the field of mortgage lending at the time, and the stress was getting to Aaron.

"Lauri asked me, 'What makes you happy,?'" he remembers. "I said, 'Animals -- they just love you.'"

Lauri suggested they downsize and move into an apartment so they could live on her salary. They also agreed that Aaron needed another canine friend to fill the void left by Bear who was a present from Lauri on the first Father's Day following their marriage.

In September, a puppy named Baxter came into their lives.

"Baxter brought back the meaningful relationship that I had with Bear," Aaron said. "He makes me feel whole, plugged in to another source of love which is so crucial."

The search for Baxter also inspired a career change.

"I had been going to the Carlsbad shelter and knew I wanted to work with animals," Aaron said. "I got the idea to do dog walking. Clients are not only going to have someone take care of their pet, but love their pet as well."

Aaron is launching "Dog Gone Walking!" in time for the holiday season. Services also include pet sitting and house sitting. Of course, he is licensed and bonded. For more information call Aaron at (619) 988-0174 or email doggonewalking@live.com.

Talkin' Turkey

2010-11-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

Following the end of the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade at noon today, our friend AKC judge Mike Dougherty (pictured above, left) will be judging the Terrier group at the National Dog Show/Philadelphia Kennel Club. Two million viewers are expected to tune in to NBC for the fun. Mike and his lovely wife, Michelle, have been wonderful friends to Lara and me over the past 18 months and we wish them and all our other followers a wonderful Thanksgiving Day.

Lara, Barney, Ollie, Lucy and I will be having our godson, Devin (pictured above w/Lucy), and his mom, Laurie, over for a vegetarian dinner of Tofurkey and English Shepherd's pie using Meatless Meatballs from Trader Joe's. This may not be appealing to some, but when you have an opinionated cockatoo sitting across from you at the table, making Thanksgiving dinner conversation in English, somehow eating turkey loses its appeal.

Seriously, Devin, Laurie and I are vegetarians. Left to her own devices, Lucy would probably prefer a dinner of deep-fried turkey with all the fixins' followed by an espresso and a Cuban cigar. Have a great one!

Undercover Video: Lucky's Backstory

2010-11-17T12:46:00.000-08:00

Lucky (see Nov. 12 post) is seen in this undercover video I received earlier today from Jill Gasparac about the 150 dogs seized from a hoarder this summer. Click on the photo below to view the video.

Jill is a freelance dog trainer in L.A. and a full-time angel who performs large-scale rescue of older dogs. She is pictured below, and in the video, wearing pink.

If, after viewing this, you want to help please contact Jill at www.apeacation.org. Donations can be sent via Paypal to donate@apeaction.org. Please forward this to anyone who has ever loved a dog. As it says in the video, "The only mistake is the one from which we learn nothing."

Rescue Exposes Terror at High-Kill Shelters

2010-11-12T06:40:00.000-08:00

On Monday I set out to cover what I thought was a routine story about a female dog with puppies rescued from a shelter north of San Diego County. A local resident with a special interest in senior dogs had offered to foster what she was told was a 15-year-old female, only to learn later that the dog had just given birth in the shelter.

The foster mother agreed to take the puppies and the mama dog, who had been held as evidence in a court proceeding for three months. What she didn't understand was how the dog could be skin and bones while under the care of shelter workers. Later I was told that as a result of the mother being malnourished, four of her eight puppies died.

This dog, appropriately named "Lucky," is now healthy and safe. You can read Lucky's story here and get information about adopting her and the puppies. But this is only the beginning of the story.

As I made calls I learned that 500 dogs had been euthanized in one day at this shelter. Think about it. Five hundred dogs. Yes, the answer is spaying and neutering but what can we do about the adoptable dogs who are here? Anyone who says they love dogs should be angry and get up from off their hands and do something. This can be fostering, adopting or donating money to rescue groups who perform heroic work by pulling these animals from shelters and finding them temporary refuge. As a nation that views dogs as "man's best friend," there is no excuse in doing nothing.

Here are some worthy rescue groups:

Jill Gasparac, Animals, People & Environment Action (Jill works with shelters throughout S. California and was responsible for rescuing Lucky.)

Lisa Hamilton, Boxers & Birds Animal Rescue

The Dog Squad, Carlsbad

Animals Without Borders, San Diego

Best of Show: Lara's Friend, AKC Judge Mike Dougherty on TV This Sunday

2010-10-08T04:59:00.000-07:00

One of the first people to sign up for Lara's team after being rescued was Mike Doughtery (pictured above, left) and his wife, Michelle, owners of the upscale Windsong Resort for Pets in Escondido. They have been very generous in spoiling Lara with extravagant beauty makeovers as The Biggest Loser: Canine.

In addition to owning the pet resort, Mike officiates at about 78 dog shows each year as an AKC judge. This Sunday, Oct. 10 at 2 p.m. he'll be appearing on San Diego's XETV Channel 6 (the CW) at the Oklahoma City Kennel Club Dog Show. Mike will be judging the Hound group at 2:10 p.m.

On Thanksgiving Day, Mike will be appearing at 12 p.m. on NBC TV, following the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. He will be judging the Terrier group at the National Dog Show/Philadelphia Kennel Club.

Mike learned about purebred dogs from his parents, Jack and Marion Dougherty, who built and opened Lemon Grove Kennels which became one of the three largest in San Diego, along with Mission Valley Kennels and Fon Jon Kennels. He acquired his first Whippet in 1963. By 1974 Mike was approved by the American Kennel Club for a limited handler's license, attaining all-breed status in 1977. While concentrating on handling he also bred and owned, with his family, Miniature Schnauzers, Smooth Fox Terriers, and Keeshonden, as well as Whippets. As a professional handler, he guided the careers of many top winning dogs, including Best in Show winning Whippets and Bichon Frise. His handling focused mainly on breeds in the Hound, Terrier, Non Sporting, and Toy Groups, but also included many breeds in the other three groups.

In 1985 Mike retired from professional handling to pursue a dog judging avocation. He is currently approved by the AKC to judge Best in Show, the Hound Group, the Terrier Group, Manchester Terriers (Toy), Bichon Frises, Boston Terriers, Dalmatians, French Bulldogs, Keeshonden, Lhasa Apsos, Poodles, and Tibetan Terriers, plus Miscellaneous Classes and Junior Showmanship. He has judged at shows across the nation such as Westminster(including the Hound Group in 2007), Montgomery County(including Best in Show in 2007), Westchester, Bucks County, Eastern, Ladies, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Hatboro, Devon, Old Dominion, Greenwich, Maryland, Detroit, Beverly Hills, Del Valle, Great Western Terrier, Sir Francis Drake, and Santa Barbara. His international judging assignments have taken him to Australia, Taiwan, Colombia, Sweden, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Finland, Canada, and Mexico.

Mike and Michelle have been very kind to Lara in contributing to her rehabilitation and lavishing her with compliments.

The Windsong Pet Resort is located at 1412 Windsong Lane, Escondido. Phone: (760) 233-5060.

Lara, Happy Hour, Del Mar, CA

2010-10-02T11:08:00.000-07:00

Lara & Barney Reunite with Alison Hardison

2010-09-26T08:11:00.001-07:00

This weekend Lara, Barney, Ollie and I met up with friends and their rescue pups at Dog Beach in Del Mar. We had the greatest surprise when Alison Hardison walked up to us. She saw Lara and Barney first and thought it was too much of a coincidence that an English lab and a St. B would be hanging out together.

Alison was their guardian angel who, through a rescue group, pulled them from the Carlsbad shelter last summer -- Lara in June and Barney in August. She also arranged for them to be spayed and neutered when the time came.

The lady who introduced me to Alison described her as an "angel" and she really is. She had 4-year-old daughter, Zahara, in tow and was pregnant with her other daughter, Asilah, when she extended herself to help Lara, Barney and scores of other distressed pups last summer. Today, Alison has some health issues that are causing her to slow down, so we're wishing her all the best. She's a favorite of ours. Here is a video of Lara and Barney playing in the surf over the weekend.

Joey: Front Page Feature Story, 1st Day of Class, Georgetown University Newspaper

2010-09-07T05:11:00.000-07:00

"Freshman Takes to YouTube to Chronicle Experiences
During First Year at GU,"
The Hoya, Aug. 31, 2010

Joey took a midnight train from (Jessop) Georgia the evening of Thurs., August 26 carrying three suitcases and three bags en route to his first year at Georgetown University. We talked a couple of times during the trip, in between a visit to the dining car and reading "The Reluctant Fundamentalist," required reading for incoming freshmen.

After arriving at Union Station around 7 a.m. ET, Joey made friends with a porter who gave him a ride to the terminal. Joey had time to grab a savory croissant at what he described as a posh restaurant and give me a call. Afterwards, he took a taxi to the front gate at GU where he was greeted by a representative from the Georgetown Scholarship Program (GSP) who presented him with a gift bag chocked full of toiletries and other goodies and a bed set from Target. Joey called again after checking into his room, on the 8th floor of the dorm which boasted a panoramic view of the campus. "It couldn't get any better than this!" he told me, almost breathless. Since he was one of the first freshmen to arrive, he took a few minutes to chat with his new resident assistant. A short time later, she ran up to him and said, "Are you a singer?" He responded, "Yes, I am." She explained that a security guard recognized Joey and said to her, "Do you know who that is? That's Joey Pearson! I have his CDs!"

I called late that evening to say good night, and introduce myself to Patrick, Joey's new roommate and a fellow freshman from Connecticut. Patrick sounded like a great guy! He said he was an introvert himself, and was grateful that he was matched with Joey because it will make it easier for him to meet people. I said, "Oh, yeah! You will definitely meet a lot of people hanging out with Joey," and added that he hit the jackpot in the roommate department. Joey feels the same way about Patrick.

The photo above was taken after Joey set up his room. Note the traditional "Wall of Scarves" over his bed. I wonder if Joey will donate his scarf collection to the Smithsonian upon graduation in 2014!

You can follow Joey's adventures as a freshman at GU on his YouTube channel.

EXCLUSIVE! Cbad Shelter Pup Now "Detective LuLu"

2010-08-01T04:09:00.000-07:00

Before becoming San Diego County Medical Examiner in 2003 Dr. Glenn Wagner served as director of the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington, D.C. where he participated in some of the nation’s most historic crime scene investigations – from the 1983 bombing of the U.S. Marine barracks in Beirut to the crash of American Airlines flight 77 into the Pentagon on 9/11. Dr. Wagner presided over the recovered remains of the Challenger astronauts in both accidents. And he was part of an elite team selected to perform an autopsy on the President of the United States in the event of an assassination.

"When I was hired in San Diego, I was told they wanted me to take the department in new directions," Dr. Wagner said. Seven months ago his vision culminated in the opening of the state-of-the-art Medical Examiner & Forensics Center on Overland Ave.

A lifelong dog lover, part of his plan was to recruit a shelter dog to become ME Canine 2, the second cadaver dog in his department.

I was fortunate to land an exclusive interview with Dr. Wagner on the occasion of the debut of LuLu, ME Canine 2, a four-year-old German shepherd from the North Shelter in Carlsbad. This is the same shelter where Lara and Barney came from a year ago.

LuLu once again proves that SHELTER DOGS ROCK!

You can read LuLu's story in today's San Diego Union-Tribune.

You can watch LuLu on her first day of work on YouTube.

LuLu weighed in at 70 lbs. on the scales at the Medical Examiner's office her first day of work on Friday, July 9.

LuLu will join Theila, a bloodhound also known as ME Canine 1, for 18 months of training in air sniffing, tracking and trailing as a cadaver dog. Although dogs have been known to develop depression in this line of work, especially in extreme circumstances such as 9/11, Dr. Wagner has a reward system in place to hopefully prevent this. When LuLu is not at work, she can be found chasing gophers and playing with Cocoa Bean, Wagner's 10-year-old Chesapeake Bay Retriever, on his four-acre property in Vista. Dr. Wagner's wife, Joan, is strengthening LuLu for her new job with home cooking and lots of TLC.

LuLu's biggest challenge will be keeping up with Wagner. At 64, he says his own work ethic will most likely keep him on the job until he passes himself.

" I believe life is a transition and that we are obligated to have a positive influence," he said. "When everything is said and done we have an appointment with death. At that time we will look back and see footprints and know they are our own and that we made a difference."

Joey Graduates, Leaves for the East Coast Today

2010-06-22T21:03:00.000-07:00

3:30 p.m., Friday, June 18

7:30 a.m., Today

Time Flies.

Lara, The TV Star

2010-05-06T20:36:00.000-07:00

If you missed it, you can click the photo above to view Lara's TV debut on KFMB-TV (CBS) in San Diego tonight.

Lara is cool as a cucumber as Barney, Ollie and Miss Lily watch the live shot at Viewpoint Park in Encinitas at 5:30 p.m.

Encinitas native Jeff Zevely, a (very, very) funny and gifted reporter, puts Lara at ease.

Joey stopped by after work to give Lara moral support.

Miss Lily is relieved that it is Lara in the spotlight this evening,
not her.

Packing up to leave, there's nothing like the satisfaction
of a job well done.

Time to go home for dinner.

Lara Gets Ready for Her Close Up

2010-05-06T05:32:00.000-07:00

This is a big day for Lara as she films clips for her TV debut on San Diego's Channel 8 (KFMB) News, the CBS affiliate, which will air tomorrow. We were thrilled to learn that Encinitas native Jeff Zevely was doing the story. I first came to know Jeff when I covered Encinitas's State of the City banquet for The Coast News two months ago. He was a hilarious emcee who kept the event moving, and the audience laughing, all evening

Lara got ready for her close up at the Windsong Pet Resort in Escondido. Thanks again to owners Mike and Michelle Daugherty, and head groomer Jessica Lynch, for treating her like a star.

Click here for a behind-the-scenes preview from Joey.

Joey Receives Full Scholarship to Georgetown University

2010-04-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

Before there was Lara, Barney and Ollie there was Joey.

We met 9 years ago this week as I was walking my two dogs, Truman and Henry, and carrying my umbrella cockatoo, Lucy. Joey was 9.

I heard a voice ask, "What is your bird's name?" and turned around to discover what looked to be a character out of a Walt Disney movie -- a slightly built boy with rosy cheeks wearing a navy blue sweater and carrying a bouquet of flowers he said he had picked for his teacher.

The next day I saw Joey again, this time walking up my driveway inquiring if he could come in to my house and see the bird's cage.

When I asked to meet his parents, he explained that it was only him and his dad and that they lived with a family across the street.

Thus began a special friendship founded on a mutual affection for animals.

Shortly after that Joey took me on my first roller coaster ride at Knottsberry Farm, a prize for winning a fundraising competition sponsored by the Rancho Coastal Humane Society. We were a great team: I drove the car from strip malls to car dealerships as Joey jumped out and hustled the owners and store managers.

It wasn't just domesticated animals he loved. It was tarantulas, lizards and ferrets.

At one point he saved the day when I was distressed to discover a family of mice living under my refrigerator. After catching and releasing the adults in the park, Joey fashioned a home for the baby in a plexiglas cage, complete with exercise equipment, that we bought at PetSmart. After beefing up the wee mouse, Joey proudly released him in the park to join his relatives who we were sure were waiting.

In April 2002 Joey delivered the most eloquent speech of his young career. It was to the Encinitas City Council advocating for a measure that would ban circuses, rides and and other for-profit animal acts in the city. It passed. Afterwards a councilman who opposed the ban approached Joey to shake his hand. "I'm sure glad you're only 10," he said. "Otherwise I would be afraid of losing my seat in the next election."

Well, that councilman is still in office and his grace period could be coming to an end as Joey, now 18, contemplates a career in international relations, maybe even politics.

The sky's the limit now that he has been accepted to the distinguished Foreign Service School at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., the alma mater of leaders including President Bill Clinton and Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia.

What's more, Joey received a full scholarship valued at more than $225,000.

His response?

"Now I really will be able to make a difference in the world."

I was honored to be Joey's guest last night at a reception sponsored by Georgetown University for the Class of 2014 and their parents.

Maddy's Miracle Tail

2010-03-05T04:25:00.000-08:00

This is a happy tale to start your weekend!

A couple of weeks ago Lara's friend, Rebekah Peterman of Sunnybrook Farm Holistic Pet Care, formed a team that included Lara's weight loss vet, Dr. Carmine Bausone, which successfully restored the ability of a young labradoodle named Maddy to wag her tail after being run over by a car in the family driveway. They did so using nonsurgical, homeopathic methods.

Read Maddy's story in today's The Coast News.
Watch her video on YouTube.

To contact Rebekah call (760) 230-0748 or visit sunnybrookfarmholisticpetcare.com.

Barney Rushed to Emergency Veterinary Clinic

2010-02-04T21:27:00.000-08:00

Last night Barney was bitten by a normally sweet golden retriever at his favorite dog park here in Encinitas. The dog wouldn't let go of Barney's drooping lower lip which made it a struggle to separate the two dogs. By the time we did there was blood on Barney and my coat. The retriever was untouched.

The dog's owner, who has known Barney for several months, insisted on meeting us at the emergency veterinary clinic so his wound could be examined.

We couldn't figure out at the time what provoked the incident. In hindsight, I think I know what happened.

Barney routinely breaks up dog fights in the park by physically inserting himself between rival dogs. He never barks or growls, he just breaks away from me, trots up to the pups, and either separates them with his head or walks between them. The fight is over. End of story. I have seen him do this many times when Lara backs herself into a corner by playing too aggressively, and also with strange dogs. He's a peacemaker.

Yesterday a smaller dog was chewing on the golden retriever's ear in play. I think Barney thought a fight was about to erupt. He broke away from me and trotted up to the two pups. I suspect the retriever felt overwhelmed by the two dogs, especially with Barney being so large, and reacted in self defense.

The retriever's owner and I decided to keep the pups apart till next week when she is going to invite her dog trainer to meet us in the park and show us how to reintroduce them. They have been buddies since August, so we're hoping things can return to normal.

A vet tech first examined Barney and said he had a puncture inside his mouth and a laceration on the outside. Dr. Hugh Elliott then took a look and said it wasn't serious and sent Barney home with antibiotics. He wants to look at him again in a week.

We got home in time to watch American Idol with Joey and Lucy-Bird, a ritual we have had since Joey was 9.

In fact, two years ago Joey and I went to L.A. to be in the American Idol audience. Joey sang "Amazing Grace" acapella at a pre-show bash hosted by first-season finalists Justin Guarini and Kimberly Caldwell. When he finished the song, Kimberly pointed to her forearm and told Joey to look at her goosebumps. Justin added, "You could win this whole competition, man!"

You can get a glimpse of what they meant when you see Joey on this video below. He has some competition from Lucy who we were coaxing to do her "Psycho Bird" routine:

New Year, New Lara - Fit & Fabulous!

2010-01-06T13:26:00.001-08:00

Yesterday Mike & Michelle Dougherty, owners of the posh Windsong Resort for Pets ("Best of San Diego, 2008" San Diego Magazine) in Escondido, invited Lara for a celebratory beauty makeover for the New Year. We didn't hesitate to take them up on their offer.

When we arrived at 9:30 a.m., the lobby area was packed. That made it even more special to think they wanted to pamper Lara when they were so busy.

Jessica Lynch (left) is the resort's head groomer and assistant manager. She has taken a genuine interest in Lara's rehabilitation, and almost enjoys spoiling Lara as much as Lara enjoys being spoiled.

Jessica began by giving Lara a strawberry milk bath to moisturize her skin.

"Lara's coat was thick and strong," she said. "With losing weight and her thyroid being under control, her skin has healed and is great condition."

After the bath, Jessica treated Lara to a pedicure and furmination which removes the undercoat, a process she's undergone before.

"She didn't need it very much this time because she's so healthy," Jessica added.

Mike, who's an AKC-licensed judge at competitions including the Westminster Dog Show, was visibly impressed with Lara's condition.

"Unlike 'The Biggest Loser' on television, you have a real success," he said. "Some people would throw up their arms and say, 'It's a lost cause -- it's going to be what it's going to be.' Lara's dropped one-third of her body weight. Her life has been prolonged by 3 to 5 years."

Mike also admired Lara's new face.

"Now her jowl line has definition," he said. "Her muzzle and cheeks are also well defined."

Mike noted that Lara finally looks like the young dog she really is, only 3 years old.

Lara left Windsong walking on air.

The next stop was the off-leash dog trail between Mountain Vista and Encinitas Blvd. to meet up with her friends and show off her new look.

It's funny, normally Lara's a complete tomboy at the park, body-slamming and head-butting other dogs -- especially Dylan, the golden retriever in the video below with whom she shares a special fondness. You'll note there was none of that. This was a demure, ladylike Lara who was confident in her new body -- and lovin' that sexy, pink bandana.

Click to watch Lara parade her new look before friends at the dog park.

Lara Exceeds Weight Loss Goal Today! 30 lbs.!

2009-12-17T15:25:00.000-08:00

Team Lara, from left: Dr. John Harrison, Lara and Dr. Carmine Bausone celebrate Lara not only meeting, but exceeding her weight loss goal this afternoon. Since her first visit to the Acacia Animal Health Center on June 12, Lara has dropped from 102 lbs. to 72 lbs.

Julene is the first to give Lara a congratulatory hug.

Lara can't resist the opportunity to show off her stitches. Dr. Bausone was impressed with Dr. Haver's excellent handiwork.

After weighing in, Lara received another VOM treatment from Dr. Harrison which has been at the heart of her transformation from the sedentary life of a backyard breeder into the athlete she's become at the dog park. This was Lara's first session since being spayed 8 days ago. Dr. Harrison explained that post-op discomfort most likely caused her to put up her guard which, in turn, affected the way she walked and created problems with constipation.

"I concentrated on her lower lumbar and paraspinal muscles," he said. "She was tight on each side of the spine which would dovetail with symptomology of being constipated."

Dr. Harrison used a vibracussor and joint stimulator in and around the lumbar vertebral area which increased blood flow to the muscle, relaxing and mobilizing the area.

Let's not forget how Lara looked when we first met her at 102 lbs. six months ago.

I want to thank Dr. Carmine Bausone for generously agreeing to manage Lara's weight loss program last June. Integrating western veterinary medicine with acupuncture has given Lara an opportunity to make up for lost time by adding valuable years to her life. Dr. B and his staff at the Acacia Animal Health Center have treated Lara like gold, an experience that was completely new to her. She was so at home at the clinic today that she helped herself to a Christmas present under the tree before leaving!

I can't say enough good things about Dr. Harrison and veterinary orthopedic manipulation (VOM) which Lara will continue in the new year to ensure her health and vitality as we begin a new chapter of her life. I also want to thank Michelle & Mike Dougherty of the fabulous Windsong Pet Resort in Escondido for introducing Lara to the lifestyle of a diva with their luxury beauty makeovers. And wonderful Rebekah Peterman, holistic (pet) health practitioner from Sunnybrook Farm in Encinitas who spoiled Lara with aromatherapy, Reiki body work and dowsing.

Finally, I want to thank Alison Hardison, Pam Chandler, Carol Cote, Leslie Davies, Susan Healy, Keith Blackburn, Dr. Gary Haver and others who do heroic work on behalf of the animals at the Palomar Airport Shelter. If you have the space, please consider fostering. If you have the money, please consider donating to one of the fine rescue groups who work tirelessly to save dogs like Lara and Barney every day. Each of them deserves the same life of kindness and unconditional love that they so freely give to us.

Happy Holidays and all our love,

Lara, Barney & Lillian

Barney's Reunion with Dr. Haver

2009-12-16T20:31:00.000-08:00

Barney had a joyous reunion with Dr. Gary Haver this morning when he arrived at Dr. Gee's office in Encinitas to be neutered. Dr. Haver was the attending veterinarian at the San Diego County shelter in Carlsbad when Barney, known then as Cujo, was surrendered last summer weighing only 105 lbs.

"It was great to see Barney again," Dr. Haver said. "Because I work general practice and shelter medicine, I have seen a lot of animals' transformations. I get great satisfaction in seeing the changes in the animal and the bond that develops with their new family.

"Back when I first met Barney, I was presented with a very thin dog in poor condition. So poor that humane euthanasia was contemplated. He seemed to be very compliant to a physical exam and I thought that because of this, the great staff at the San Diego's County Animal Shelter were willing to go the extra mile and devote their efforts to treating him.

"He obviously was neglected. Some of his problems were that he was weak, depressed, had severe skin and ear infections, and worst of all he had a maggot infestation. The maggots were so bad that the smell permeated the halls of the shelter for several days. An experienced shelter technician, unable to stomach the odor and mess from the larvae, had to excuse herself from the room while treatment for the maggots was instituted. There were so many maggots, that the following day the drains in the kennel where Barney spent the night had maggots crawling out of them. It was like a scene from a bad movie.

"Today I was blown away when I saw Barney. Not from his clean coat and ears, or by the near 15 pounds he gained; but by his outgoing and loving personality. He wanted to be with someone, anyone, at all times. He seems to be a happy, well-adjusted dog that is everybody's friend.

"I will always remember Barney; not just the image of maggots crawling out of his ears but seeing him weeks later resting his head on my leg soliciting me to pet him."

Freedom: Lara's Big Day

2009-12-10T07:08:00.000-08:00

Yesterday at 8:15 a.m. I delivered Lara to Dr. Milton Gee's office in Encinitas for spay surgery which was performed by Dr. Gary Haver. Dr. Gee is one of many vets that offers discount spay and neutering surgery through a partnership with the San Diego County Department of Animal Services.

The procedure officially brought an end to any chance that Lara could be exploited as a breeder again.

"Lara was great. She was very friendly and high energy when she arrived," Dr. Haver said. "Her excitement for being in the company of people was contagious and it made everyone want to be with her. After an exam and review of her medical history she was given a 'preanesthesic injection.' She soon was in a much calmer state."

11: 16 a.m. Vet tech McKenzie Russell prepares Lara for surgery.

11:24 Dr. Haver begins surgery.

11:27 a.m.

11:43 a.m.

11:51 p.m. Finishing up.

"The routine surgery was completed without incident and she was soon back in her kennel recovering from anesthesia, though she still was in a calm state from the pain injection given intraoperatively," Dr. Haver said. "I want to see her back in 10-14 days to remove her sutures. I can tell already that she will not hold any grudges about the surgery and will be excited and happy to come in and be the center of attention once again."

5:15 p.m. Home, in the stairwell.

7:32 p.m., awake, but groggy, and still in the stairwell.

6:23 a.m. this morning.

.
"Little does Lara know that her better life began yesterday," Dr. Haver said. "No more potential sex hormone induced problems in her future, she will never get ovarian or uterine cancer, and the threat of a life threatening uterine infection has been completely eliminated. And though she probably could be a great mother, I'm sure she put her maternal time in earlier in her life and will be happy to enjoy her life without concerning herself with puppies."

"Houston, We've Got A Problem"

2009-12-06T17:45:00.000-08:00

We've had to deal with a bit of separation anxiety here at home this weekend. I've been busy figuring out how I'm going to keep Lara and Barney separated since discovering that she's in heat Friday night.

Neither dog had been fixed upon advice from their respective vets: Lara needed to lose weight first and Barney had to recover from anemia brought on by the maggot infestation. Both were scheduled for surgery Dec. 23 to be performed by Dr. Gary Haver at Dr. Milton Gee's office in Encinitas.

I met Dr. Haver last month while interviewing him on SNAP's Neuter Scooter for an article in The Coast News. We were surprised to discover that we both knew Barney: I was fostering him, and Dr. Haver had taken care of him when he was surrendered at the county shelter.

I remember Lisa Hamilton returning to her office at the Mission Animal Hospital Aug. 7 after assessing Barney at the shelter and reporting: ". . .they have done a super job at the shelter of getting him well on the way to recovery. Bless who ever spent hours shaving and pulling maggots from his wounds!"

That was Dr. Haver. He seemed very pleased to hear that Barney was doing well and vividly remembered that day.

Because of his history with Barney, it seemed only natural that Dr. Haver, who works at Dr. Gee's office on Wednesdays, would neuter him and, of course, Lara. After Friday night's revelation, I was eager to move surgery up from Dec. 23 to avoid any chance that Lara would become impregnated.

Although Dr. Haver's surgery schedule was full this Wednesday he graciously offered to squeeze Lara in. The only challenge now is keeping the two pups separated till then. Let's see, it's 6:10 p.m. on Sunday. 62 hours and counting. . .

You Go Girl! You're Almost There!

2009-12-03T08:38:00.000-08:00

In the past month, Lara's weight has dropped from 77.1 to 76.2 lbs. Now it's not a matter of pounds, but ounces before achieving a goal weight of 75 lbs. -- and victory!

Last Sat., after her weigh-in at Acacia Animal Health Center, Lara and Ginger were all smiles. Hopefully, Lara will achieve her goal on the next visit scheduled for Dec. 19. Then she'll have the satisfaction of being at her ideal weight on Jan. 1 while others, bloated from the holidays, will just be getting around to making new year's resolutions.

When Dr. Harrison greeted Lara in the lobby for her VOM treatment, she sprung up on to a cushioned bench next to where he was standing. She looked like she was going to jump into his arms. Fortunately, she gave it a second thought. As he noted later, she is one limber, muscular little girl. She greets her male pals at the dog park by charging, then head banging them -- her tail wagging all the time. I saw her closing the gap while in pursuit of a young male great dane last week and remarked to a friend: "Look, she can keep up with him." He responded, "Lillian, he's trying to get away from her."

"Lara's all muscle," Dr. Harrison noted after treatment. "She has great muscle tone and definition in her shoulders going into her spine. Her legs are stronger and she's walking straight and more relaxed. Her paws are strong and defined. She's balanced. She sits in a comfortable position the way she's supposed to."

The activator (below) infuses mobility and motion into Lara's vertebra, lubricating the joints. This removes nerve interference that might have occurred from a muscle injury.

Dr. Harrison uses a vibracussor which sends calibrated pulses to tissue. This drains congestion and increases blood flow to enable the area to move easier.

As we left, our friend Carol Cote arrived with her older pup, Morgan, for their first appointment with Dr. Harrison. Carol is a rescue volunteer who saw Lara at the county shelter in Carlsbad back in June when she looked and felt like a beached whale. "I can't believe how Lara has changed," Carol said. "The transformation is unreal!"

Dr. Harrison Performs VOM on Rabbits

2009-11-10T07:37:00.000-08:00

Dogs aren't the only animals who benefit from veterinary orthopedic manipulation. Horses, cats, even birds, realize the same dramatic improvements that Lara has since first visiting Dr. Harrison in June. Her followers will enjoy this demonstration of Dr. Harrison performing VOM on a member of the San Diego House Rabbit Society. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Harrison call the Acacia Animal Health Center in Escondido at (760) 745-8115.

Lara Loses 10 lbs.! Only 2 More to Go!

2009-11-01T07:08:00.000-08:00

Lara's not only beautiful, inside and out, she's become the embodiment of physical fitness.

We visited Acacia Animal Health Center yesterday for a VOM (veterinary orthopedic manipulation) treatment with Dr. Harrison. Before starting she stepped on the scale to reveal a weight of 77 lbs., down 10 lbs. in a month, and 25 lbs. total.

Truth be told, part of the weight gain last month was from bloat which she lost an hour later when we went to Dog Beach and she had a sizable bowel movement.

The rest of the weight loss is attributed to a grain-free diet, no snacks and a minimum 30-minute run every evening.

Dr. Harrison couldn't have been more pleased.

"During the last visit there was a lot of misalignment in her lower back due to bloat," Dr. Harrison said. "That was released at the beach."

"Today her cervical spine is clear, too. All around, everything's real good!"

As Lara loses weight, her workouts are more vigorous because she has more energy. She's the one to beat on the beach -- outrunning most other dogs!

Barney occasionally runs inter-
ference when an overzealous dog gets too rough while catching up with her. He'll break away from me, trot up to the offending dog, then lower his head and give him a nudge to say, "Okay, buddy, move on." There's never a growl from Barney, just a gentle reminder that he's Lara's protector. And there's never an argument from the other dog.

“Basil’s Bow-Wows”

2009-10-21T18:54:00.000-07:00

This is compliments of Henry Zecher, a friend many years ago from journalism school. Today, Henry is the world's greatest authority on William Gillette, who played Sherlock Holmes.

The following tribute was written by Basil Rathbone in 1933, upon the death of his beloved Moritz, a black German shepherd. Rathbone was a major dog lover and among the finest actors of his generation. He is remembered chiefly for playing Sherlock Holmes:

MORITZ

WITH RESPECT,

ADMIRATION AND

EVERLASTING LOVE

OUIDA AND BASIL

Come winter time and summer time,

Come sweet and cleansing rain,

Come spring time and the autumn,

Both sun and moon shall wane,

Come seed time and flowering,

And harvesting the grain,

The Earth will cease and time grow old,

But we shall meet again.

'Twas not for naught we walked the fields,

The sidewalks and the lanes,

Sharing our hopes, our fears, our doubts,

Beliefs, our joys and pains.

And though I, with human weakness,

Have not always understood,

You with your dog devotion

Blindly believe me good.

Now you will sleep a little while

And dream in peace, please God,

Then one day I shall follow you

And sleep too beneath the sod,

To rise with you and walk again

With a vague sense of remembering

That we had loved in other lives,

Before this new ascending.

For more information, visit “Basil’s Bow-Wows” at www.basilrathbone.net/potpourri/dogs/

St. Bernards/Rule #1. Don't postpone daily walk.

2009-10-15T05:23:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night instead of taking Lara, Ollie and Barney for their 5 p.m. visit to the dog park, I decided first to make oatmeal cookies for a dinner at Sharon and Richard's at 7 p.m. My thought was to take the pups to the park while the cookies cooled. So I pulled out oats, cinnamon, eggs and flour -- then ran to the store to pick up butter and brown sugar. I arrived home to what looked to be a blizzard in the kitchen. Lara and Ollie were hiding while Barney, the only one tall enough to reach the flour on the kitchen counter, was unapologetic.

Ooops. Lara Gains 4 Lbs.

2009-10-10T12:53:00.001-07:00

Sorry it's been so long since the last post, but I've been sidelined with a bug that doesn't seem to want to go away.

Anyone who's tried to lose weight in a household where someone's trying to gain knows how difficult it can be.

Barney arrived a couple of months ago weighing 104 lbs., about the same as Lara when she came at the beginning of June. Trouble is, Lara's ideal weight is
75 lbs. while Barney's is a minimum
of 120 lbs.

I've tried to bulk him up with snacks, but it's hard to do so without including Lara. Instead, I give her smaller pieces. Even tried baby carrots. Barney loves them, but Lara spits them out. Anyway, no snacks for Lara. She's very active, more so than Barney and Ollie, so that should help to move her weight in the right direction.

During our visit with Dr. Harrison he noted, "Lara's doing well. Her neck has cleared up -- no reflex or misalignment in the cervical spine. She's alert, friendly, no stress."

Presenting "Beach Blanket Amigos"

2009-09-26T18:09:00.000-07:00

Everyone will enjoy this feelgood movie about Ollie, a little black mutt, as he introduces Lara, an English lab used as a backyard breeder, and Barney, a severely neglected St. Bernard, to new friends at Dog Beach in Del Mar, Calif.

The Trailer

The Movie

"Lean On Me." Lara and Barney Enjoy First Party

2009-09-22T10:47:00.000-07:00

Lara and Barney enjoyed their first party last weekend -- to celebrate Joey's 18th birthday. A couple of apologies: I'm new to video taping and couldn't figure out how to end the clip at the conclusion of the performance. Also, the video file was too big for my blog, so I uploaded it to YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S69qOhEwJXs

Note my third dog, Ollie, taking care of Barney's oral hygiene (drooling). "The 3 Amigos" made such a good impression that one friend said she was going to talk to her husband about adopting a second shelter dog.

The lady petting the pups is friend Kathy Herington, formerly with The Mar-Dels. The background singer is friend, Laurie Lehman, a former blues singer turned social worker. The cockatoo is Lucy, Joey's new booking agent.

Rancho Santa Fe Turkey Rescue, Sept. 13, 2009

2009-09-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

Today when Lara, Barney, Ollie and I returned from a long hike at San Dieguito County Park, we heard cooing as we approached our van which was parked at the lower level entrance on El Camino Real. I looked up to see a brilliant white hen and tom turkey standing on the far side of the road. I saw a couple of people trying to block them from crossing the busy thoroughfare, so decided to lend a hand.

One of the Good Samaritans was Karen Carhart, a volunteer with the San Diego Humane Society, Large Animal Rescue. She called Leslie Buncher, a fellow volunteer who arrived with a cage. A passerby said she had a dog kennel we could use to house the tom temporarily. It went very smoothly with minimal stress to the birds. Leslie explained that he was transferring the couple to the humane society with the hope that their owner would claim them. If they don't, he assured us that both birds would be adopted out together since they were obviously mates, and pets. It was a great outcome. You can view a video of the birds on my other blog, Lillian's North County Notes.

Lara - The Movie

2009-09-12T05:38:00.000-07:00

Minus 19 lbs. and Dropping

2009-09-08T07:33:00.000-07:00

Lara's followers might remember the trouble we had on June 29, trying to get her to mount the scale at Acacia Animal Health Center. That day she weighed 100 lbs., down 2 lbs. from her starting weight.

At one point it took 3 of us to get her on the scale. Not so any more. She steps right up these days following direction from Julene, the receptionist at Acacia. Over the past 3 months, Lara and the front office staff have become quite fond of one another. The weight loss no doubt has also made her feel younger and more agile.

Dr. Harrison was pleased to report that a month after her last adjustment, Lara remains in perfect alignment except for one small part of her neck. "I expected that," he said. "Everyone goes out of alignment at some point. This happens when there is more muscle tension on one side of the neck than the other."

"This can be applied to the human condition -- muscles are being tightened and pulling vertebrae into states of tension and structural fixation," Dr. Harrison said. "This is why the adjustment of veterinary orthopedic manipulation (VOM) is so helpful because it remobilizes that joint system for better movement and nerve coordination between the brain and the body."

Feeling happy and fit, Lara will return for a follow-up appointment in a month.

Lara & Friends Are Treated to Dowsing and a Dose of Mono-Atomic Minerals

2009-09-03T02:01:00.000-07:00

Lara's first experience with dowsing at Sunnybrook Farm Holistic Pet Care July 11 was so fascinating that I asked practitioner Rebekah Peterson if I could bring my cockatoo, Lucy, and my nephew's ferret, Dezi, for a reading.

In dowsing, also called divining, a pendulum is used as an antenna that receives information from the vibrations and energy waves emitted by the animal -- whether it is a bird, ferret or human. This is done after simple questions are posed by the practitioner. Rebekah cautioned that she can't say for sure if these are issues belonging to the animal, or its guardian. "Animals mirror who we are," she said.

Apparently, Lucy's path is to see God in others and to accept an outer teacher, Rebekah said. Lucy could benefit from bananas, a homeopathic form of echinacea and the color violet (color therapy).

Dezi, Rebekah advised, needs to eat less. He will also benefit from the healing effects of umeboshi plums.

Bach flower remedies were developed in the 1930s by English physician and homeopath Edward Bach. A small amount of flower material is diluted in a solution of 50:50 water and brandy. It is thought that the energetic nature of the flowers can be transmitted to the user to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia and stress. Dezi's guardian, Joey, had been out of town for several weeks which could have caused some or all of these problems. Rebekah gave Joey a sample of oak, elm and mustard essence with which to treat Dezi. She also suggested that Dezi learn to let go. "The easier it will be for both of you," she added.

Lara was happy to see her friend, Rebekah, again and was eager to lie down and begin treatment. Rebekah advised that Lara needs to resolve problems and set limits. There are insufficient demands on her emotions and she needs to love herself. Lara could benefit from jasmine (aromatherappy) and black and brown (color therapy).

Rebekah sent me home with a gift of Mono-Atomic Minerals, organic supplements manufactured by Eleven Elements.

Later I spoke with Dominique Brutsche to inquire how the product could benefit Barney, the St. Bernard I am fostering who was infested with maggots and was grossly underweight when he arrived.

She started by explaining that the product not only has key vitamins, but more than 80 minerals and trace minerals.

"Vitamins work much better with a host of minerals to support them. Nothing in the body works alone, each element is connected," she said.

"If Barney is 50 pounds under weight, he is most likely deficient in many things, not just iron, so a host of different vitamins and minerals will be very beneficial. The Mono-Atomic Minerals are easily absorbed by the cells, so they can be utilized immediately, it will also allow the nutrients from Barney’s food to be absorbed and utilized more fully. The high concentrations of fulvic acid are largely responsible, allowing nutrients to be absorbed into itself and passing through the cell membranes quickly and easily, so the body can utilize them. Research shows that fulvic acid is one of the most powerful antioxidants and free radical scavengers in the world, it enhances enzyme development and function, restores and helps maintain a healthy mineral balance in the body, oxygenates the blood, boosts immune function and increases the assimilation of all other nutrients so healthy cells, tissues and organs can be created throughout the body.

"The formula also supports all of the metabolic processes in the body with enzymes, amino acids and all of the B vitamins as well as vitamin C. The B complex vitamins help support neuro function and are essential to running the body. Vitamin C is crucial to boosting the immune system, building healthy muscles and joints, and keeping his skin healthy. Dogs do produce some vitamin C, however not enough to support them during times of stress. Most other animals increase vitamin C production during times of stress but dogs (and cats) do not. Therefore, they need to be supplemented with it.

"Another component of the Mono-Atomic minerals is silver. Silver has been used for thousands of years as a natural anti-biotic and anti-parasitic. It helps to boost the body’s immune system, so Barney can fend off those unwanted fleas & maggots without killing off the good bacteria. After the heavy duty antibiotics Barney is taking, I suggest building his beneficial bacteria up again. There are some probiotics in the Mono-Atomic Minerals, but after such infestation and then heavy antibiotics it is clear that his immune system is very compromised, and he may need an extra boost."

Dominique suggested other products manufactured by the company. For more information visit: www.eleven-elements.com or call (866) 376-0008. You can also email: questions@eleven-elements.com.

Bella Has A Home; Now She Needs Donations for Medical Care As She Grows

2009-08-28T08:47:00.000-07:00

Several people have asked about Bella, a paralyzed golden lab puppy featured in our July 22 blog.

Amy Shever, founder of 2nd Chance 4 Pets, contacted Gina Farnsworth at the end of July and offered to take Bella. Her organization's mission is to "protect animal companions and prevent them from becoming orphaned due to their owner’s death or disability."

While at 2nd Chance, Bella was evaluated, fitted with a special cart and given therapy.

On August 18 she arrived at her new home at Healing HEART Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah near the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Bella was filmed by a local video crew and later was guest of honor at a Best Friends weekly staff lunch.

Bella's condition is complicated. On Friday, August 7, she had an emergency procedure done, a consequence of her neurological issues. She will need ongoing care.

To continue treatment at Healing HEART, Bella will depend on 2nd Chance 4 Pets.

Guardian angels are needed to underwrite the cost of Bella's treatment as she grows. If you can make a donation, please visit www.helpbella.org. Donations can be made online at www.2ndchance4pets.org or can be mailed to 2nd Chance 4 Pets BELLA FUND, 1484 Pollard Rd, No 444, Los Gatos, CA 95032O.

You can see a video of Bella in her new cart and follow her progress on Bella's Blog.

The Three Amigos!

2009-08-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

Shelter Dogs Barney (8), Lara (2) and Ollie (5) Take Over Encinitas!

Yes, this is the same Barney who was infested with maggots 3 weeks ago. Scroll down to the August 12 post below to see his progress.

Thanks to all the rescue volunteers and donors who made their rehabilitation possible. They were worth it, and so are others!

A Dog's Ten Commandments

2009-08-21T07:09:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Tiffany Porter of Encinitas for this wonderful sentiment. It came to her from her nephew, a dog trainer.

A Dog's Ten Commandments

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. We do not have to wait for Heaven to be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness. It is here on earth and has four legs!

Lara: Before & After

2009-08-16T06:08:00.001-07:00

June 7, 2009

June 25, 2009

July 28, 2009

It's hard to dispute the effectiveness of veterinary orthopedic manipulation (VOM) after looking at these photos.

On our last visit, Dr. John Harrison noted that Lara's sway back is vanishing and making way for an athletic young dog able to perform maneuvers she was unable to do in her previous life as a backyard breeder.

"Her body was so heavy that her spine was being pulled to the ground," he said. "Now her muscles are strong, she has balance and a better side profile."

In treating Lara, Dr. Harrison noted that her muscles no longer have variations in heat, indicating her earlier inflammation has disappeared.

Stay tuned for more good news.

Barney: A New Foster Dog Arrives

2009-08-12T12:10:00.000-07:00

What moves us to help others?

"I have a theory about the assists we get in life," Lucille Ball wrote in her autobiography Love, Lucy. "Only rarely can we repay those people who helped us, but we can pass that help along to others."

This also applies to those who are moved to give a "hands up" to our feathered and four-legged friends. In their innocence, animals and children are the most vulnerable to the evils of man.

Last week something special happened in North County. A disparate group of people came together to respond to the plight of an emaciated, seven-year-old male St. Bernard who was surrendered at the county animal shelter. Weighing only 105 lbs., Barney was blanketed with mats and maggots throughout his body including his ears and anus. His mouth was full of broken teeth.

I monitored the situation as it unfolded in a group email initiated by Alison Hardison of Shelter Pet Partners, then forwarded it to a handful of people I thought might help. Here is how the story developed:

9:21 a.m. Rebekah Peterman of Sunnybrook Farm in Encinitas offers to provide a herbal regimen to promote healing and weight gain.

10:07 a.m. Jason Bennett, owner of Flippin' Pizza in Encinitas, writes: We will donate $100 for the medical from Flippin’. Can you give me the info on how I should make out the check and where to send it?

10:20 a.m. Lisa Hamilton of Mission Animal Hospital in Oceanside announces that she is going to visit the shelter to assess the dog.

10:26 a.m. Alison reports that she'll begin looking for funds as well as a foster home.

1:34 p.m. Lisa returns from the shelter and writes: He is a VERY good boy! I have no doubt he is in pain with the ear and skin issues, but they have done a super job at the shelter of getting him well on the way to recovery. Bless who ever spent hours shaving and pulling maggots from his wounds!

4:22 p.m. Alison gives a status report: Mission Animal Hospital is willing to help, Carlsbad councilman Keith Blackburn has donated money for medical, and Lillian has agreed to serve as a foster guardian.

11:20 p.m. Jane Cartmill of San Diego Animal Advocates writes: SDAA can contribute $100 if that would help.

At 11 a.m. on Saturday Alison picks Barney up from the shelter and drives him to Mission Animal Hospital. She notes that the odor of his ears is so bad that it almost makes her sick to her stomach. The hospital provides an exam and medication at no cost. Shelter Pet Partners pays for the anesthesia and ear cleaning.

Afterwards, Renee Dudek of Dogs & Suds in Encinitas treats Barney to a free grooming.

Councilman Blackburn meets up with Alison at the grooming salon to deliver a check for $500.

Joey and I arrive at Dogs & Suds at 5 p.m. to pick up this handsome but painfully thin, gentle giant.

Barney receives a warm and enthusiastic welcome from Lara and Ollie. After enjoying their first dinner together, Ollie, also a rescue dog, begins to nurse Barney by cleaning his ears, eyes and mouth -- a routine he repeats each day.

On Sunday morning Katerina Lorenzatos Makris, San Diego Dogs Examiner for Examiner.com, emails to ask if she can feature Barney in the premiere of a column titled, "Dog Rescue Funny Bones."

Neighbors Jo and David Smith come over to meet the new foster. They are so moved by Barney and his pitiful condition that they return to deliver a new collar, leash and crisp $100 bill to help with medical bills.

Yesterday Katerina sends an email reporting that her article has generated $4 in donations for food. She adds, "Whatever I make from Exam.com on Barney's story I'll send you for his food fund!"

And today I received a $100 check from Jo Smith's friends, Jim and Jackie Emig of Fallbrook, to help Barney!

Barney is only at the beginning of his recovery. He's facing the cost of a blood panel, x-rays, dental work, medication and, of course, food to bring him up to a healthy weight.

If you'd like to join "Team Barney" and 'pay it forward' through donations, contact Alison Hardison at alihardison@hotmail.com or call Ellie Astridge at (760) 402-1980.

* Note: Barney arrived at the shelter as "Cujo." He showed such an unusual interest in The Andy Griffith Show the first night he was here that we renamed him "Barney."

Dr. Carmine Bausone: Lara's Trusted Vet & Friend

2009-08-07T04:28:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Joey asked if I had ever thought of becoming a vet.

"Yes, I thought of it," I replied. "In fact, my high school science project was about dog parasites."

So he posed the next logical question -- why then hadn't I gone to veterinary school.

"I didn't like science," I said. Truth be told, it wasn't one of my strong suits either.

Fortunately for those of us who love our pets, there are gifted practitioners who not only excel in the sciences, they possess compassion and an instinctual understanding of their patients.

These are qualities I've come to appreciate in Dr. Carmine Bausone, director of integrative medicine at the Acacia Animal Health Center.

Last week I arrived at our appointment with a list of concerns to discuss.

The first was raised by Mike Dougherty who, during Lara's grooming, suspected that she had the beginning of an ear infection.

Before I had a chance to address my list I watched as Dr. B greeted Lara, then remarked, "She has an ear infection. . .I can smell it."

The other thing I like about Dr. B is that he offers a spectrum of treatment options, drawing upon his knowledge of traditional western medicine, holistic healing and eastern therapies.

He suggested that I first try to treat Lara with this home remedy:

Dr. Bausone’s Holistic Ear Rinse
Thoroughly mix drops* of Nutrabiotic Grapefruit Seed Extract with a mixture of ½ oz. apple cider vinegar and ½ oz. water. Apply 3-5 drops of solution in the affected ear 2 times/day. Do not use full strength in ears and use as often as needed.

* 3-4 drops small to med., 4-7 drops med. to large, 7-10 drops larger dogs.

Caution: This treatment may not work in every case. Monitor your dog's ears closely. If they do not heal completely visit a veterinarian right away.

We also discussed commercial products and home remedies for flea control and removal of the tear stains beneath Lara's eyes.

After performing acupuncture, Dr. B said her condition had stabilized to the point where she only required monthly maintenance treatment.

During her weigh-in we learned that Lara had lost another 5 lbs. -- bringing the total to 15. Only 12 lbs. to go!

The good news continued a few days later when Dr. B called to report that blood test results indicated that her thyroid was normal.

Under Dr. B's care, this little girl has transformed from a sad victim of neglect, who collapsed halfway around the block on our first walk, to a robust young lady who is now running, playing and living the life of a San Diego water dog -- also kayaking and swimming!

Birth of a Diva: Lara Enjoys a Day at the Spa

2009-07-30T07:29:00.000-07:00

Last week Mike Dougherty, an AKC-licensed judge who owns the Windsong Resort for Pets with wife, Michelle, invited Lara for a follow up beauty and spa treatment.

I look forward to our visits to Windsong which is modeled after the prestigious Golden Door Fitness Resort & Spa, also off Deer Springs Road north of Escondido.

The grounds are serene and healing with lush gardens, sounds of splashing water and sculptures nestled in the woods created by Michelle, a gifted artist and horti-
culturist.

The Dougherty's greeted Lara like the celebrity she's become.

After I left for a few hours, Lara began the day with playtime, running around the field with Mike and Toby, a Goldendoodle who was a guest at the resort.

"Lara's made some amazing progress," Mike remarked. "Having lost some weight, she has become an active, vibrant labrador."

"She's now running and jumping, where once she just struggled to walk across the yard," he said. "Her attitude is now cheery and bright...one can actually note a bit of a smile when you look at her."

Playing aside, it was time for the real fun for this new canine diva -- some serious pampering. With a little assistance, Lara climbed on the grooming table for her pedicure. Head groomer Jessica Lynch trimmed some of her longer nails first, then 'dremeled' them all to get a nice smooth finish.

"Now it was time for the spa treatments," Jessica said. "Being the time of year it is and the noticeable amount of hair Lara was shedding, we selected a deshedding shampoo and conditioner to help get all the loose hair off."

Jessica also applied an aroma shampoo to moisturize her dry skin.

"Lara really enjoyed being in the tub and the little massages she got as I rubbed in the shampoo," she said.

After Lara was rinsed and towel dried, Jessica used the FURminator tool on her coat which helps remove the hair she is shedding.

"Lara sat very still, like a queen on her throne," Jessica said. "She is a very sweet and happy girl. Her story really warms my heart and I’m glad I get to be part of her recovery. I look forward to our next spa day and my chance to pamper her again."

It meant a lot to Lara, especially, to earn the admiration of Mike who has served as a judge at the world-famous Westminster Kennel Club dog show.

"Her coat now shines and her eyes are sparkling and happy." Mike said. "She's a new dog, and we are excited to follow along with her and Lillian as she continues in her quest to regain her youthful figure, vitality and joie de vivre."

Photo Credit: Michelle Dougherty

* Check out Michelle's new Windsong Resort blog at: www.windsongpaws.com

Paralyzed Little Bella Needs Guardian Angel ASAP

2009-07-22T22:05:00.000-07:00

I was approached this afternoon to post the sad tale of this 10-week-old golden lab, Bella.

Since she shares a story similar to Lara's, we're hoping there might be someone in cyberspace reading this blog who might feel moved to step up to the plate and be a guardian angel to this little one.

You know what they say: You don't find your pets; they find you.

Little Bella has a spinal injury and, I was told, was dumped at an animal hospital in San Diego by the former owner of her parents.

Here is her story written by her foster mom, Gina Farnsworth, email farnsworth16@cox.net:

Bella has more then just paralysis going on. It is just her hind legs, that little girl can move her front legs like no other! She SO wants to investigate everything! Shes a doll! Full of life!

She manages to drag herself around with her front legs and she is ok at standing on her stiff back legs to eat. I've been using a raised food/water bowl and she seems to stand okay for that.

She's quite the medical case unfortunately...and funding may or may not play a large part in finding her that special person willing to take her on :(

Let me explain further. Little Bella came to us as a puppy who "fell off the couch" and couldn't walk at 6 weeks of age. A precious baby!We took x-rays and found a spinal problem. The neurologist said to give her 4 - 6 weeks to see if her spine heals since she's so young!Her owners chose to euthanise rather then to wait 6 weeks to see if she would 'heal'. At that time Bella had no name.She became sweet "Little Orphan Annie" to us!

Well, after 2 weeks her hind legs were becoming stiff, something didn't seem quite right! We repeated the xrays and it seems her
spine has started to heal somewhat. The legs were now becoming
another problem. Her left hip has popped out of socket [she's a puppy so that was almost to be expected] and we are now dealing with that situation carefully as well. Sure doesn't seem to bother her, she has NO clue all of this is going on! Right now the left hip is pretty much seized up and they are thinking either surgery [IF it is possible] or amputation of that leg. We will know more in the up and coming weeks.

Last Friday I got back from taking her to the Veterinary Surgical
Specialists and sadly the Specialist didn't give her much hope of walking again given the current condition of her legs, etc.

The Dr I work for says she will more then likely be in a wheelchair [doggy cart] and that's ONLY if we can find someone who has the time, patience to deal with it. So frustrating because I live with her and see how sweet and happy she is.

I doubt a wheelchair will be a problem for prospective adopters because right now she RUNS with me assisting her with a towel as a rear leg 'harness.' I am starting to notice her right rear paw is almost acting like it wants to work!! Promising! A doggy cart would be great therapy for her and that back leg - I'm sure!

Anyways, we've been doing some therapy trying to get movement back into her legs [mainly that right rear leg]. No real improvements as yet...and as I say there very well may never be. Then again, you never know! She sure acts like she can 'feel' something back there! With such a young pup there's a chance of some recovery.

Hydrotherapy may be of help here as well! I've heard other stories of puppies at 6 months of age being able to use their hind limbs after paralysis, and this is why we don't want to give up on her. There IS hope!

There is constant caring for her throughout the day for her mild incontinence. I do not need to express her little bladder. I'm not

certain if she can feel anything when she's urinating. She doesn't seem to mind diapers at all. Just the past 5 days she's been urinating outside when we 'go potty'. I've noticed she's managed to hold it longer. Even overnight!! Again VERY promising!I am potty training her as you would any other 10-week- old puppy.

Her bowel movements just fall free at present and at times it can be messy to clean. We recently changed her diet s l o w l y to a special mix of "EN" canned food and Science Diet puppy canned food. Her stools have now become a normal consistency and easy to clean.

It almost appears like she knows when she needs to poop. She tries to lick at her bottom [but she cant reach it] I mentioned this to our doctor and she felt positive about this! When she needs to poop she barks at me.....so again very promising signs.

She will need surgery for the entropion in her left eye [her little eyelashes curl inwards] actually very common and the surgery is no real big deal at all. This is the least of her problems. I am working on getting funding for this surgery as well.

She had a prolapsed rectum until last week when the doctor placed a purse string in [pulls her rectum back inside her bottom]...hopefully that will heal. As of today things are looking brighter in that aspect now we are only feeding her special canned food diet. The purse string comes out in a day or so.

The prolapse may reoccur on occasions due to her dragging her bottom? Then again if we can get a doggy cart for her this may not be the problem it seems to be and may never reoccur. This we wont know for sure. I believe there is a surgery for this problem also, but dont want to have to 'go there' as yet!

I've had diapers on her on certain occasions, but when I have her here with me at home I prefer to just wipe her little bottom throughout the day and have her on the tiled floor [easy to wash and disinfect] and some soft towels for her to lay upon. Washing/cleaning will become routine for her prospective owner I'm sure. For how long , we wont know. There are special 'rear limb doggy sacks'that these special needs dogs can wear so they dont leave 'snail trails' on carpet, etc.It's amazing what they have out there on the market for handicapped pets!!

She is currently being kept penned up [per doctors orders] although I do take her out throughout the day .....that way she can sniff the grass and flowers and just "live" a little.

Puppys need socialization and need to be exposed to certain things as they grow up so we are doing our best to let her get that too.

Apart from that this little girl is of course GORGEOUS! *sigh* Such a sad story. If I could, I certainly would take her but I already have a house full of animals and I simply cannot afford what it will take to save her.

Basically this lil girl needs to have a chance at living a wonderful life since shes the happiest little puppy. I think you already got that point though :)

Euthanasia is what we are so trying to prevent! Quality of life? Well, that will be up to the person who adopts her.

There is NO adoption fee...all our Doctor would like is to meet the prospective adopters and make sure she is going into the right home..She will come fully vaccinated and she has been dewormed already. Right now we are just seeing if there is anyone out there willing to go through with the time, patience and funding to give her a wonderful life!

If you can help please email Gina at farnsworth16@cox.net.

Thank you!

A Word About Hypothyroidism

2009-07-19T15:24:00.000-07:00

I was walking on the Oceanside Pier the afternoon of June 9 with a friend when I retrieved a voice mail message from Dr. Bausone. In a tone that seemed more serious than usual, he reported that he received the results of Lara's blood panel. He explained that she had thyroid disease and would have to be put on medication. After a month, I needed to bring her back for a retest to make sure the dose was correct. He went on to say that the blood test would have to be repeated every six months for the rest of her life.

My heart sunk as my mind raced to the worst case scenario -- that this was a progressive disease that at some point would become life threatening. Fortunately, I couldn't have been more wrong.

I learned her hypothyroidism is quite common, easy to treat and that the cost of the medication is very affordable.

When I saw Dr. B he gave me a handout by Dr. Ernest Ward, DVM explaining how the thyroid gland regulates the body's metabolism. When it is overactive, pooches (and people) tend to be thin. This is called hyperthyroidism. Conversely, an underactive thyroid, called hypothyroidism, causes the thyroid to slow down.

Lara demonstrated many of the classic symptoms of hypothyroidism:

Weight gain.
Lethargy and a lack of desire to exercise.
Dry, dull hair with excessive shedding.
Increased dark pigmentation in the skin.
Thickening of the facial skin resulting in what is called "tragic facial expression."

Four weeks ago she began a dosage of .6 mg of Thyrosyn (sodium levothyroxine) tablets every 12 hours. Since then she's been losing weight at a steady pace. Even better, she has the energy and zest for life of the young dog she is. I love this photo because it shows her doing something she couldn't do at all when she first arrived: climb up and down the staircase all day long clutching her favorite stuffed animal in her mouth.

Once again I learned that knowledge is power. The diagnosis has given her a new quality of life. As I reported earlier, Dr. Bausone even held out the possibility that once she is down to her ideal weight her hypothyroidism might be managed with supplements only.

Countdown: 102 to 92 lbs.! Only 17 to go!

2009-07-13T10:02:00.001-07:00

Thankfully, Lara is on target to meet all goals set by Drs. Bausone and Harrison when they met her a month ago.

On Saturday she weighed in at 92 lbs., down 10 lbs. since her first visit to Dr. B's office on June 11.

She had her first session with Dr. Harrison on June 13.

At that time he explained that it would take 4 more consecutive sessions, a total of 5, to get her into alignment. She accomplished it in 4 sessions!

"Lara is showing all signs of success," he said. "Everything's working well together. She's showing a better sense of mobility, movement, balance and coordination."

Even before she stepped on the scale, Dr. H. noted that she had lost weight and that her muscles were toned.

"We're now in the phase of reeducating the system to help in realignment by continuing with VOM, acupuncture and diet," he said. "All of a sudden you have a happy pet that doesn't need so much work."

He beamed at the sight of a vital, healthy and spirited young female dog with a lifetime of good memories in front of her.

Lara Visits Rebekah of Sunnybrook Farm

2009-07-11T07:00:00.001-07:00

When Lara was examined by Dr. Bausone the first time, he referred us to Rebekah Peterman of Sunnybrook Farm Holistic Pet Care in Encinitas. I followed up and arranged to meet with her last week.

Upon arrival, Lara and I were greeted by Rebekah’s dogs - Ranger, Cassie and Fancy - and two goats - Honey and Lil’ Goat. It really was like a small farm in the middle of Encinitas. As Rebekah and I exchanged "hellos" there was immediate recognition. A few years ago we used to chat at an off-leash dog park as our animals played. About the same time a friend in Del Mar highly recommended Rebekah to me as a pet sitter.

Since then Rebekah opened her Sunnybrook Farm, a reference to the family farm in Pauma Valley where she says she learned to care for creatures. She offers a wide variety of services from energetic screening to acupressure, Reiki, aromatherapy, flower essences, healing stones, homeopathy, individualized diet screening, non-anesthetic teeth cleaning, daycare and boarding. Dr. Bausone recommends her cooking classes to his patients.

Rebekah began the session by picking up a small pendulum to perform an energetic screening on Lara.

Pendulum dowsing, also called "divining," is known for its ability to gather information using simple questions. The pendulum is thought to be a powerful antenna that receives information from the vibrations and energy waves emitted by the pet.

Albert Einstein, who used dowsing, attributed its powers to electromagnetism, the same force that causes birds to migrate using the earth's magnetic field. Leonardo De Vinci and Gen. George Patton were also dowsers.

"I developed my own dowsing technique using a series of charts that enables me to obtain information from sources such as glands and organs to auric fields and meridians," Rebekah said. “The priority information I gather assists the owners in dealing with everything from behavior issues to constipation and diarrhea."

After the assessment, Rebekah concluded that Lara was suffering emotional pain. She explained that this was most likely due to the premature loss of her puppies.

"She's also been hurt by a young person in her life who doesn’t have much time for her," she added.

Rebekah coaxed Lara to her "dog couch" to begin acupressure.

“I used specific points on the meridian that helped to shift blocked energy in the gallbladder, spleen and conception vessel,” she said.

Rebekah also used Reiki, a Japanese healing technique that releases stress and tension while unlocking the healing potential of the body.

Lara appeared to be quite responsive, relaxing and even leaning into Rebekah as she worked on her. After a few minutes Lara seemed to slip into a trance. Rebekah said this is not unusual.

“I had a greyhound who looked like she needed to have a cigarette after her hands-on treatment,” she said laughing.

To promote healing, Rebekah suggested introducing more raw fruits and vegetables into Lara’s diet. She also recommended using flower essence to reduce the emotional effects of being teased about her weight. Finally, she suggested using an iodine supplement for thyroid health, a recommendation also made by Dr. Bausone.

Rebekah practices what she preaches. Several years ago she was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. It evolved into hypothyroidism after undergoing radioactive iodine therapy.

"I took synthetic medicine and finally decided that I wasn't going to live like that," she said.

Since then she has been able to manage her thyroid using natural medicine.

For more information about Rebeka's services call (760) 230-0748 or visit SunnybrookFarmHolisticPetCare.com.

Lara Gets F.I.T.

2009-07-08T09:22:00.001-07:00

Since embarking on a strict health regimen 4 weeks ago, Lara has benefited from a number of therapies: veterinary orthopedic manipulation (VOM), acupuncture, acupressure and Reiki.

Dezi, a ferret who frequently stays with me while his owner is out of town, has taken a genuine interest in Lara's rehabilitation.

Yesterday I watched as he kneeded Lara, then treated her to a a full body massage for 10 minutes.

I've coined his technique, "Ferret Induced Therapy" or "F.I.T."

As you can see from Lara's expression of pleasure in the photo below, and her involuntary leg kicking, Dezi seems to know what he's doing.

Drum roll. . .Meet Lara (nee Mama) with Her Bling!

2009-07-06T10:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a banner day for Mama. She got a name, a shiny new identification tag and a mauve, patent-leader collar studded with rhinestones!

It was long overdue. Poor Mama has been wearing the ID and collar of my late dog, Henry, while I wrestled with the task of giving her a proper name.

Lara (pronounced LAR-ah) was the first one that came to mind when I began contemplating the issue a few weeks ago. Because she was blossoming more each day, it was important that any name had staying power.

The name Lara has origins in Russian and Latin. It means "protection" and also "cheerful" and "famous." She is all of these -- especially the last one. On July 4th her blog broke previous records with more than 100 hits from as far away as France, Germany, Finland, Iraq, Qatar and India!

Many people of my generation remember the character of Lara, played by Julie Christie in the 1965 Oscar-winning movie "Dr. Zhivago." With the backdrop of the Russian Revolution, Lara displayed grace and strength despite famine, poverty and the loss of her family.

A younger generation has grown up watching a modern, techno-savvy Lara on the movie screen -- Lara Croft, the brave and independent super heroine played by Angelina Jolie in the "Tomb Raider" series.

The clincher for me in deciding on the name "Lara" was its similarity to "Larry."

On May 29, two days after bringing Lara home from the shelter, my dear friend Larry DuBois passed away after a three-year battle with vasculitis, a rare condition characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels. He was 88.

Like Lara, Larry was fearless and protective, a Navy combat medical corpsman in the South Pacific during World War II. Later he founded the FMF (Fleet Marine Force) Combat Medical Personnel Association.

More than anything, Larry loved dogs. During the 28 years that I have had the honor of being a family friend I have heard countless stories about Larry's efforts, beginning in youth, to rescue stray dogs.

Over the past 20 years he has taken a special liking to Australian shepherds. He's pictured above with his last puppy, Ruff, who died of heart failure last November.

In the past, following a period of mourning, Larry would typically go out and purchase another Australian shepherd from a kennel. Instead, media coverage of the current shelter crisis made him determined to get a rescue dog this time.

Last March, he called and asked if I would take him and Mary, his wife of 69 years, to the county animal shelter on Palomar Airport Road.

When we arrived, the large selection of deserving dogs was overwhelming. This, coupled with effects of the vasculitis, made him too weak to stay long enough to deliberate on the most appropriate decision. We decided to leave and return another day.

The last time I saw Larry was at a small family gathering on April 27 to celebrate his 88th birthday. He didn't look well, but still had the characteristic twinkle in his eye. As I got up to say 'good bye' he said, "Lil, we need to go back to the shelter and get a dog!" I said I was ready any time. He passed away a few weeks later. . .

Well, Larry, I got a dog. A dog with heart. Her name is Lara.

Below: Lucy (bird)and Ollie (dog) admire Lara's new rhinestone collar.

A July 4th Salute to USMC Military Working Dogs

2009-07-04T05:46:00.000-07:00

Four years ago I had the privilege of spending half a day at the Camp Pendleton kennels where elite military working dogs live and train. This Independence Day I'd like to share some of those memories.

The Marine Corps began using dogs as messengers and scouts during World War II, recognizing that they could reduce casualties and find the enemy in hiding places. Dogs were donated by civilians eager to contribute to the war effort. Two organizations, Dogs for Defense and the Doberman Pinscher Club of America, provided many animals.

Clyde Henderson, a high school chemistry teacher from Ohio and chairman of the Doberman Pinscher Club's training committee, was recruited to lead the 1st Marine Dog Platoon into combat.

"After a five-day cross-country train trip, the 1st Marine Dog Platoon led by Henderson went into temporary quarters at Camp Pendleton," wrote James A. Cox in Marine Corps League Magazine in 1989. "With the help of Carl Spitz, owner of a famous Hollywood dog training school, Henderson trained the platoon intensely for a few weeks while awaiting a convoy, making up the rules as he went along, since he had no precedents to guide him."

The dog platoon joined up with the 2nd and 3rd Marine Raider Battalions for an assault on Bougainville, an island in the South Pacific, that began Nov. 1, 1943.

Six dogs were recognized for heroism on Bougainville. Among them was Caesar, a 3-year-old German shepherd who was donated by his owner in New York City. A messenger dog, Caesar received a promotion to sergeant in recognition of his bravery.

On Jan. 23, 1944, The Plain Dealer of Cleveland published this account of his record: "Caesar was wounded on the third day and had to be carried back on a stretcher. While with his company, Caesar made nine official runs between the company and the command post, and on at least two of these runs he was under fire." Caesar also forced a Japanese soldier to drop a hand grenade he was about to hurl at the dog and his handler, the newspaper reported.

Other dog platoons saw action on Guam, Saipan, Peleliu, Iwo Jima and Okinawa.

Soochow was a veteran war dog beloved by many San Diegans. After World War II, he retired at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot. On Oct. 29, 1946, a parade was held to honor his ninth birthday.

"Soochow hit the foxholes with the other Marines during the siege of Corregidor, and fought alongside his buddies," said Ellen Guillemette, archivist at the depot's Command Museum. "He was captured when the island surrendered on May 6, 1942.

"Soochow spent nearly three years in various prisoner-of-war camps. He and 17 Marines were liberated by American Rangers in February 1945. He held the Philippine Campaign, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign, Good Conduct, World War II Victory and American Defense medals."

Today, Camp Pendleton is the largest base for Marine dogs in the United States. Dogs working in all branches of the U.S. military are recruited and trained at the Military Working Dog Center at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The dogs are part of the Military Police, and are trained to perform patrol and bomb-and drug-detection duties. Each dog is assigned to one handler for a two-year rotation. In Iraq, the dog and handler work and live together.

Currently, Marines use only German shepherds and a variety of Belgian shepherd called the Belgian Malinois.

"The Marine Corps began having problems with Dobermans and Rottweilers," said Sgt. Greg Massey, the kennel master at Camp Pendleton. "They are good attack dogs, but not good at detection."

Although Marine dogs are required to be aggressive and protective, that doesn't mean they have to be large, Massey said. The Belgian Malinois is a medium-size dog, weighing 40 to 80 pounds.

"Size doesn't mean much. You can have 50 pounds that can leap and grab your chest, arm, back, leg, anything," he said. "If it grabs your hamstring, I don't care if you're (former Miami Dolphins running back) Ricky Williams – you're going down."

Massey said he prefers female dogs because they tend to be more loyal than males.

Marines interested in working as handlers go through a competitive process conducted by the Military Police.

"As a trainer, you are critiqued just like a dog," said Sgt. Vince Amato, chief trainer of the base. "If you are thin-skinned, you will have a hard time."

Amato said the Marine Corps goes to great lengths to match the dog's personality with that of the handler.

"Dogs learn just like we do," he said. "If the dog's not learning, it's because the handler isn't training the right way. It takes time, practice and patience."

Massey said choke chains and pinch collars are only used to give a dog a correction.

"If the handler abuses a dog, he's out of here," he said.

Army veterinarians care for dogs in all branches of the military, assigning their working weight and establishing their diet.

"Working dogs are known to get bloated, probably from playing too soon and too hard after eating," Massey said. "For this reason, they are fed twice a day."

After a career that typically lasts about 10 years, today's military dogs are rewarded with a variety of retirement options. Many are available for adoption by previous handlers, veterinary technicians and the public. Some are used by law enforcement agencies or returned to Lackland, where they are used to train new handlers.

Three Pounds in Five Days!

2009-07-03T13:40:00.000-07:00

What a way to celebrate Independence Day weekend!

Yesterday Mama weighed in at the Acacia Animal Health Center 3.2 fewer pounds than she did last Saturday.

No lap band. No tummy tuck. No liposuction.

She's been doing the hard work and it's paid off!

For the first time, she stepped on to the scale without hesitation.

Dr. Bausone was pleased, even suggesting that her hypothyroidism could improve as she continues to lose weight.

"Obesity is the worst disease," he said. "Often if we can control it, we can lower the thyroid medication and in some cases even substitute it with iodine supplements."

Afterwards, Dr. B gave her a second acupuncture treatment.

The goal again was to raise her yang, or "positive energy," and promote tonification, an acupuncture term meaning "to strengthen the body."

For more information about acupuncture call the Acacia Animal Health Center at (760) 745-8115 or visit www.aahc.us.

Guest Blog: Michelle Dougherty, Windsong Resort for Pets

2009-07-01T05:05:00.000-07:00

What Does A Dog Know?

Dogs know when they are with people who like them.

They know how to make choices that will affect their situation.

Recent studies have shown they have a sense of fair play (“Rover got five biscuits and I only got one, I’m not doing the trick anymore”).

Dogs and other animals can detect fear, or maybe they sense it because of a perceptiveness to changes in our body chemistry. They can sniff out disease and find misplaced items or lost people.

Dogs know when we’re sad, and they occasionally are mad (“What do you mean I can’t sleep on the bed anymore?”), but then quickly forgive us.

Dogs could survive just fine without human companions, as the marauding coyotes in my neighborhood attest to, yet they choose to stick with us. How infrequently dogs are walked on a leash these days. How is ‘Dog Beach’ even possible? Quite often when people arrive in our parking lot, they fling open the car’s rear door and out jumps Fido, free as a bird. The humans trust that Fido will not wander too far, and will quickly return when called… miraculously he does. He listens despite new smells that need to be explored and investigated, despite the little bird sitting on a branch over there that would be fun to chase, despite a pressing obligation to mark every low growing shrub as newly conquered territory.

Dogs know when a person is putting trust in them, and they desperately want to live up to our expectations. (Training and bonding over time go into developing this kind of relationship, and understanding of a dog’s distinct personality. It would obviously not be a good idea to let a dog off-leash without reasonable assurance that he or she will come back when called.)

If Mama could talk to us with human words, what else would she tell us that she knows? Instead she communicates with her eyes, with sniffs, with quiet gestures - like her head on your shoulder, or a gentle paw on your wrist. She surely must be wise beyond her years. Could she have tried to make the best of a bad situation, while hoping for something better to turn out for her? What does she dream of? How does she feel about her life today? Hopefully when modern science allows us to more effectively communicate with animals, Mama will still be around, so she can write her memoirs.

Visiting the San Diego County Fair this weekend? Stop by and see Michelle's musical bears exhibit in the Flower & Garden Show.

The Scales Don't Lie: Mama Begins to Lose Weight

2009-06-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

Mama eagerly anticipated her noon appointment on Saturday as we traveled the winding road of Del Dios Highway from Encinitas to the Acacia Animal Health Center in Escondido.

After pulling my van into a parking space, I opened the sliding door and grabbed the leash which quickly became taut as Mama lunged and made a beeline to the entrance.

This was a girl on a mission!

When I opened the door to the reception area, she announced her arrival with a bark that was directed to a bull dog named Olive who was politely seated to the right and a boxer to the left.

Mama is beginning to show signs of an inflated self-image, fancying Drs. Bausone and Harrison as her "concierge physicians."

She received a dose of humility when Dr. Harrison appeared, then conspired with me in attempting to coax her on the scale.

No such luck.

After Dr. Harrison temporarily conceded defeat during round one of the weighing competition, Mama followed him gingerly into the examination room.

"This is NOT the same dog!" he remarked after a visual examination. This was the second week in a row he uttered these words.

Mama was pleased with his assessment, then surrendered control so that he could do what he does best: healing her using a treatment called veterinary orthopedic manipulation (VOM).

Dr. Harrison noted that her muscle tone was much better.

The spine was giving her some discomfort, probably from pulling on the leash.

He used a VetroStim along the vertebrae to stimulate the muscles and ganglia. Mama enjoys the treatment because it feels like a massage.

A Vibracussor was used on her body as well as her head (see photo) to drain congestion caused by allergies.

Then an Accelerometer(see photo)was used to stimulate her thyroid.

When treatment was completed, Mama was relaxed and more willing to mount the dreaded scale.

She had reason to be proud. Improvements in diet and exercise, and the addition of thyroid medication, translated into a weight loss from 100.6 on her previous visit to 100 lbs.

Although the road to achieving an ideal weight of 75 lbs. was probably going to be a slow one, she was on her way!

Friendship Blossoms at the Park

2009-06-27T04:31:00.000-07:00

Mama's physical well-being has been tended to through a homecooked diet, quality veterinary care and a full-service grooming.

I complement this with a daily hike at San Dieguito Park in Rancho Santa Fe which provides a good workout and a psychological cleansing.

My late dogs Truman and Henry, along with Ollie who is still with me, loved the sights, scents and sensory diversity of the park. There are velvety green lawns that cushion the paws along with steep, primitive trails where quail, lizards, rabbits and other wildlife thrive.

The first time I took Mama to the park she seemed to be on sensory overload. Since then, she looks forward to a new adventure each evening like the rope bridge (left) which still eludes her.

The greatest benefit is the bonding that has taken place between her and Ollie who is recovering from the loss of Henry who shared these walks until his passing on May 12.

As Mama discovers the joys of the park, Ollie has come to appreciate his new companion.

This is evidenced from these photos taken yesterday.

Mama Mia! Flippin' Pizza(s) for Shelter Pets!

2009-06-24T12:40:00.001-07:00

Jason Bennett, owner of Flippin' Pizza in Encinitas, has stepped up to the plate to find homes for the thousands of animals being surrendered at county shelters.

Beginning today, he is offering 3 FREE cheese or 1-topping pizzas to Encinitas residents who adopt a shelter animal.

What motivates Jason, who only bought the business a few months ago?

"First, I love dogs," he said. "I read in the newspaper how many pets are being brought to the shelters because of the economy, and eventually euthanized because there are not enough homes.

"I thought this would be a great incentive for people to adopt a shelter pet."

To take advantage of the promotion, patrons must present a signed San Diego County - Animal Services Adoption Agreement dated June 24, 2009 or later along with a valid drivers license with a signature that matches the one on the contract.

Offer is only available to Encinitas residents at the Encinitas store.

"Flippin' Pizza is all about being part of the neighborhood," Jason said. "We want people to consider us their neighborhood pizzeria."

Flippin' Pizza
215 S. El Camino Real, Encinitas
(760) 632-1497

* Offer expires 90 days after contract date.
** Limited to animals adopted at San Diego County Animal Shelters in Carlsbad, San Diego and Bonita. See contact info to the right.>>>>>>

"This isn't the same dog," Dr. John Harrison

2009-06-22T15:53:00.000-07:00

Mama arrived last Sat. afternoon for her second VOM (veterinary orthopedic manipulation) appointment with Dr. Harrison. He recognized a vast improvement right away.

"She's walking a lot stronger and is more socially aware," he said. "She's not fearful. She leaned right into me when I started to work on her."

Dr. Harrison also noted that her spinal muscles were stronger,the goal he set a week earlier when he saw her for the first time. His initial concern was to relieve stress on her spine caused by her weight.

While I was thrilled with the results I can't say I was surprised.

Several years ago I had a spaniel-dachshund mix named Ben who became paralyzed from the waist down when he was about 12 years old. A chiropractor who heard of Ben's condition through a mutual acquaintance called and asked if he could treat him. He added that he couldn't charge me because he wasn't a veterinarian, but that he had been very successful with farm animals with neurological damage and old dogs with back problems. I agreed to give it a try.

Within 3 weeks, Ben was running on Dog Beach again.

Word of his recovery spread. A reporter approached me about being interviewed for a segment on national television. Ben's veterinarian was so enthusiastic with the result, that she also appeared on the show to testify to the effectiveness of the treatment.

Today, veterinary orthopedic manipulation has entered the mainstream. Dr. Harrison routinely works on dogs, cats, birds and rabbits through his association with the San Diego Chapter of the House Rabbit Society.

I had to giggle when he described how each pet has their own way of expressing relief from pain.

"Dogs start to shake and relax after treatment," he said. "Rabbits will groom themselves. Horses will bend the neck down and lick.

"Cats are funny. They will actually push into the Vibracussor because the vibration reminds them of purring. They are not as frightened as people would think."

The cost of each treatment is $50. Dr. Harrison says it takes 3 to 5 treatments before the patient will show results.

“Afterwards, we’ll see the animal once a month or as needed,” he said. “It’s always good to use prevention rather than crisis care.”

For more information about VOM treatment call Dr. Harrison at (760) 510-8345. You can also call the Acacia Animal Health Center at (760) 745-8115 or visit www.aahc.us.

Before & After: Beauty Makeover

2009-06-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

The top photo was taken June 3, the day I brought Mama home from the county shelter on Palomar Airport Road. How sad her eyes look. You can see the lack of "affect."

The bottom photo was taken June 18, after a morning at the Windsong Resort for Pets in Escondido, named "2008 Best of San Diego" by San Diego Magazine.

Mama proves what we already know: Under the skin, girls are all alike! We love being pampered!

Behind-the-Scenes at The Windsong Resort for Pets

2009-06-20T10:48:00.000-07:00

At 9 a.m. on June 18, Mama and I arrived at the Windsong Resort for Pets off Deer Springs Road in Escondido. The spa in owned by AKC-licensed judge Michael Dougherty and his wife, Michelle, who is an accomplished sculptor and horticulturist.

I met the Dougherty's last year when I first wrote an article about Michelle's exhibit at the Flower & Garden Show at the 2008 San Diego County Fair, and later about their Windsong Resort for Pets. I was delighted to run into them again at this year's fair as Michelle was putting the finishing touches on her exhibit at the Flower & Garden Show.

When a friend who was with me urged me to tell them about Mama, Michelle responded, "If there is anything we can do, please let us know." Michael quickly followed, "Yes, we want to help."

We took them up on their offer. Last Thursday Mama spent 3 hours being pampered at the posh resort.

Groomer Michelle Millington and department head Susan Sholar spoiled the young English lab with a pedicure, furminator treatment (removal of dead hair in the undercoat to reduce shedding), tail and pants trim and "hygienic detailing." This included an ear cleaning and other treatments too personal to mention.

Afterwards Mama was lathered up for a milk bath shampoo and oatmeal conditioner.

Michael has judged show dog competitions throughout the world including for the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club. He was distressed to think that an owner would breed Mama repeatedly, while not taking proper care of her, and allowing her to get dangerously obese.

"Anyone who loves dogs, and appreciates their value in one's life, wouldn't do this," he said.

"This is an opportunity for Mama to regain her true self. She's had a tough life, but she's on the right track to a great one!"

He added that Mama was a little guarded at first, then gave in to her "Inner Diva."

"When we put her on the grooming table, her claws were tense like she was grabbing to hold," he said. "After a few minutes, the feet absolutely relaxed. Her nails no longer were digging for traction."

Susan was complimented when Mama showed affection while being coiffed and groomed.

"When I was filing her nails, she put her paw on my shoulder," she said.

Michael took note of Mama's beauty, inside and out.

"She's got a great temperament," he said. "Her head is slightly wedge-shaped, but it should elongate out a bit visually as she drops the weight. Her overall station, structure and balance are very correct."

For more information about the Windsong Resort for Pets call (760) 233-5060 or visit www.windsongpets.com.

Mama Gets her First Acupuncture Treatment!

2009-06-19T11:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a big day for Mama who received her first acupuncture treatment from Dr. Bausone!

If you look closely at the top photo, you will see one white needle in the middle of her head. Dr. B explained that he placed it in a governing vessel in order to raise her yang or "positive energy."

In the next photo, several white needles were placed along shu points on her back. This is for general tonification, an acupuncture term meaning "to strengthen the body." Other needles were placed in her back legs in order to drain the "dampness," a reference to phlegm. A needle was also placed inside her back foot to relieve pain as a precaution.

As the photos indicate, Mama was relaxed and enjoying the attention.

Dr. B reviewed her blood panel which revealed extremely low thyroid levels. This, of course, could explain her excessive weight gain. Simple medication, along with exercise, dietary changes and the acupuncture and VOM treatments she is receiving at the Acacia Animal Health Center should restore her to complete health.

On a positive note, Dr. B. said her x-rays were absolutely perfect!

This young girl has a full life to look forward to thanks to the compassion and generosity of Drs. Bausone and Harrison.

For more information about acupuncture treatments for pets call the Acacia Animal Health Center at (760) 745-8115 or visit www.aahc.us.

Henry, Dec. 17, 1998 - May 12, 2009

2009-06-18T00:04:00.000-07:00

Before there was the Mama Lab, there was Henry. His passing on May 12, 2009 led to my current involvement as a foster parent at the Palomar Airport shelter. This is a beautiful tribute to my beloved friend produced by Tony Pearson. The song, "He Was a Friend of Mine"is performed by Tony's son, and my soul son, Joey. Thank you, my friends. Lily

Extra! Extra! Examiner.com Profiles Mama

2009-06-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

Reporter Katerina Makris published this wonderful story about Mama in today's San Diego edition of Examiner.com: "Makeover for backyard breeder dog whose confinement caused dangerous obesity."

We Need to Name This Little Girl

2009-06-16T04:10:00.001-07:00

Mama arrived at the Carlsbad shelter without a name so they decided to call her Keona meaning "God's Gracious Gift." Although it's a beautiful name, it didn't seem to fit once I brought her home. I'm temporarily calling her Honey Bear.

My friend, Lynn, suggested Big Bertha. I didn't think that was funny. Another friend, Marie Ruffalo (actor Mark Ruffalo's mom) said, "With all that she's been through she should have an elegant name like Catherine." While I agree in principle, the name Catherine seemed too formal.

Mama aka Honey Bear has the large frame of proud Nordic or northern European women with names such as Ursula, Ingrid or Britta. None of these seem right either.

My bird is Lucy, named after Lucille Ball for her comedic talents. In keeping with the theme, we thought of Ethel, Vivian [Vance] or a similar name inspired by legendary comediennes in the tradition of Gracie [Allen] or Gilda [Radner]. Honey Bear is smart and affectionate, but not particularly funny. She hasn't had much reason to be although she has visibly lightened up in the time she's been here.

What do you think? Please bear in mind that a name, like her collar, still has to fit once she's slimmed down.

Dr. Bausone's Canine Weight Loss Diet

2009-06-14T12:21:00.001-07:00

Ingredients
4 lbs. chicken or turkey
2-1/2 cups (1/2 lb.) sweet potato or yam
5 cups chopped assorted vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, kale, beets, celery, carrots

1000-1500 mg of calcium citrate per pound of meat

Preparation

Place 3-4 cups of water in crockpot (can be cooked faster using conventional stove method).
Layer chicken, chopped veggies and sweet potato.
Cover with water, making sure to leave approx. 1/2" at the top to allow room for moisture generated during cooking.
Set to low setting for 8-10 hours.
Before serving, remove bones.
Add calcium citrate, mix well and let cool.
Feed at least 2.5-3.5 percent of body weight per day. For example, 20 lbs. dog should be fed approximately 1/2 to 3/4 lbs. daily, split between two meals.

For more information about weight loss for pets call the Acacia Animal Health Center at (760) 745-8115 or visit www.aahc.us.

First VOM Treatment by Dr. John Harrison

2009-06-13T10:51:00.001-07:00

At 11:30 last Sat. morning "Team Mama" (Susan Healy and I) left Encinitas for another trip to the Acacia Animal Health Clinic, this time for a VOM appointment with Dr. John Harrison.

I met Dr. Harrison in March when I was assigned an article about his work. VOM (veterinary orthopedic manipulation) is a technique that was developed by Dr. William Inman, a veterinary surgeon who recognized a need to develop a non-invasive treatment to correct spinal muscle-skeletal conditions known as subluxations.

Symptoms of these conditions include pain, inflammation, sprains, strains, muscle spasms, hip dysplasia, mobility problems and neurologic defects.

Handheld instruments are used to gently apply an impulse to a joint complex that, in turn, restores fluidity or movement to the particular area of involvement.

After greeting Mama last Saturday, Dr. Harrison explained that his objective was to relieve strain on her spine caused by her weight. In manipulating the area, he said he was releasing toxins which, initially, might cause fatigue.

As the photos indicate, Mama was quite responsive to the treatment, relaxing more and more until she almost dropped to the ground.

At the conclusion of the session, Dr. Harrison instructed us to schedule appointments for the next 4 consecutive weeks.

On the way out Mama lingered as she made her way passed her new friends at the front desk. She savored her new life as a lady of privilege.

When I slid the door of the van open, she sprung from a standing position into the air and landed perfectly on all fours. The weekend before it took two people to pick her up and place her carefully into the vehicle. What a difference a few days make!

For more information about VOM treatments call the Acacia Animal Health Center at (760) 745-8115 or visit www.aahc.us.

Rooster Gets a Home!

2009-06-13T10:48:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe this mellow and f-u-n-n-y pup was the same one who whined nonstop at the shelter. To be honest, I dreaded taking him home because I thought for sure he would drive me crazy with his continuous crying. The fact is, he never cried once!

From the time he arrived at my home on June 5, he was a clown. He grabbed a stuffed animal in his mouth, then pranced around the backyard like he owned the place. When he got tired, he quietly retired to the second floor where he made himself at home on my bed.

That night a friend and I took him, Mama and my own dog, Ollie, to the Starbucks patio in the Cardiff Towne Centre for coffee and a treat from VG Donuts to celebrate being sprung from the pound! Both dogs lapped up the attention from passersby and their new found freedom. This photo was taken 2 days later at a memorial service we had for my late dog, Henry, at the Rainbow Bridge area of San Dieguito Park. You can see that Rooster was respectful and always a gentleman.

The Vista family who adopted him is very, very lucky! (I'm jealous.)

By the way, Rooster was exited out of the Carlsbad shelter by the group, Shelter Pet Partners and adopted through a collaboration with The Dog Squad. The resources of Shelter Pet Partners are almost exhausted because of the growing number of animals at the county shelter. To continue their work they are in immediate need of foster families and donations used for medication and temporary boarding while permanent homes are sought. To help, please contact Alison Hardison at alihardison@hotmail.com.

First Visit to Dr. Carmine Bausone

2009-06-12T12:05:00.001-07:00

Rescue volunteer Susan Healy, Mama and I had a "girls afternoon out" last Thursday when we visited Dr. Bausone at the Acacia Animal Health Center in Escondido for the first time.

Mama had what could only be described as a red carpet reception! We were there for almost 2 hours.

Dr. B began by giving her a physical exam. We were pleased to learn that her age is about 2. He noted that she was a purebreed but couldn't say exactly what breed until she lost the weight. A contributing factor in her obesity was a life of containment, he said. (We learned later that she also had a very low thyroid.)

Initially, his goal is to reduce her weight from 102 to 75 lbs. Once that objective is attained, he will most likely reduce it further. "She's carrying 60 percent of bulky weight that she doesn't need," he said.

Next, we discussed her diet plan. What surprised me is that Dr. B frowns on dry kibble, even the expensive, high quality brands. He wanted to get her on a homecooked diet immediately and provided me with a recipe which I've posted separately.

His reasons for advocating a homecooked diet is to ensure that Mama consumes exclusively human-grade food, with no by-products, that is grain-free, low in carbohydrates and high in protein. The problem with most dry food, he says, is that they contain high quantities of grains such as corn, rice and oatmeal -- foods that dogs don't eat in the wild. Cooking for your pet also avoids any danger of unwittingly feeding tainted food that has been responsible for numerous deaths in the past.

Dr. B also suggested supplementing her diet with a multivitamin.

Then he recommended these online resources:

www.thehonestkitchen.com
www.nutritiondata.com

Regarding an exercise regimen, I explained that Mama only made it halfway around the block the first morning I had her. Since that time her endurance has improved and she has been able to walk the entire route.

With that in mind, Dr. B prescribed 2 to 3 one-half hour walks a day as opposed to one long walk. "Push it a little more each day," he advised.

Following the consultation, Dr. B left Susan and me in the examination room while he led Mama on a leash down the hall for a blood panel and xrays.

After they returned, we checked out at the front desk where, at his request, we made an appointment for acupuncture next Thurs., June 18 and VOM (veterinary orthopedic manipulation) treatments with Dr. John Harrison beginning Sat.

As we exited the building, it was clear that Mama didn't want to leave. She may be obese, but she has the strength of a bull.

Mama led Susan and me around the periphery of the building on her leash, then down a slope and back to the entrance (see photo above) where she gazed through the glass door waiting for someone to open it. Finally, 3 staff members came to our aid by trying to coax her to the parking lot. They were equally unsuccessful. Mama continued to hold her ground until an employee, holding a dog biscuit, lured her to my van.

It was a great day!

For more information about weight loss for pets call the Acacia Animal Health Center at (760) 745-8115 or visit www.aahc.us.

Meet Mama

2009-06-12T12:03:00.001-07:00

Meet Mama, a 102 lbs., two-year old stray picked up by a Good Samaritan in Valley Center, CA on May 21 and delivered to the Escondido Humane Society. The following day Mama was transferred to San Diego County Animal Control in Carlsbad where she remained in quarantine, for observation, until June 3. Judging by her massive size, and signs that she had recently given birth, shelter staff said she most likely had been a backyard breeder.

That morning I visited the Carlsbad shelter to view Rooster, a German shepherd mix whose mental health was quickly deteriorating due to shelter stress. I had just lost my beloved 12-year-old dog, Henry, and was approached by friend Susan Healy, a rescue volunteer, to consider fostering Rooster due to the high kill rate at the shelter brought on by the economy.

As I got closer to Rooster's kennel I saw that he was miserable, whining uncontrollably. I happened to glance to the right where I noticed an unmarked kennel with what looked to be a Shar Pei. On closer examination I recognized that underneath the layers of fat and skin was the forlorn face of an English labrador. Her breasts were almost touching the ground.

That afternoon when I returned with my nephew, Joey, Mama's condition had worsened. Her breathing was very labored, her eyes blurred and unfocused. I arranged through Alison Hardison of Shelter Pet Partners to foster Mama so I could get her on a low-calorie diet and walking regimen. Two days later Rooster arrived home.

Both dogs were well mannered and grateful to finally be in a home. Mama proudly walked around the first floor snorting, a large stuffed polar bear in her mouth. Sometimes a whistling sound traveled through her nostrils. When Rooster and my dog, Ollie, raced up the staircase to follow me, Mama stayed behind, too heavy to get beyond the first step. Instead, she stared sadly up the stairs, clutching the polar bear in her mouth.

I wondered what health implications were brought on by her obesity - possibly a deviated septum, heart failure, arthritis and who knows what else? When I walked her around the block the first time, she was only able to make it halfway before stopping, then staring at the sidewalk and lying down. It was obvious she needed medical help.

I hatched a plan to recruit a veterinarian to design and manage a custom weight loss program. In turn, I would propose to write a blog so that the cybercommunity could follow her progress while giving the veterinarian publicity for his efforts.

My strategy was to approach the veterinary hospital who could offer the most comprehensive services. I've always believed that it's better to shoot for the stars and end up with an arrow in the moon then shoot for the moon and end up with an arrow in the foot.

At the top of my list was Dr. Carmine Bausone of the Acacia Animal Health Clinic in Escondido and his associate Dr. John Harrison, a veterinary orthopedic manipulation (VOM) practitioner. I had profiled Dr. Harrison's work in a newspaper article in March and was impressed with both doctors and the services offered by the clinic that also included acupuncture and Chinese herbal therapy.

When I called to present my proposal, both doctors enthusiastically agreed to take on the challenge. Dr. Bausone explained that pet obesity was an issue near and dear to his heart and that he welcomed the opportunity to reach out and educate the public.

At his request, I called the office and scheduled an appointment for Mama for Wed., June 11 at 2:45.