Signature gathering events

There are two signature gathering events coming up for the Missourians for the Protection of Dogs. If you haven't already, I would encourage you to sign the petition at one of these locations.

One of the events takes place on April 6, beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the Underground Club Cafe.

The other takes place during the weekend of April 24 at the Earth Day Festival downtown.

Visit http://www.missourifordogs.com for more information on these events and events around the state.

And while on the subject, I've heard a lot of the arguments and discussions in opposition to the proposed statute. What it seems that most people don't understand, is that this only effects breeders of dogs with 50 dogs or more. To read the proposed statute, visit http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/2010petitions/2010-085.asp.

Dogs and Cars

As we get into the season of spring breaks and summer is just around the corner, it seemed a good time to mention some things to be aware of when your dog is in the car, with or without you.

First of all, dogs love to stick their heads out the window when traveling. The bouquet of scents must be extacy to a dog. However, some dogs are able to squeeze through the smallest of cracks. Also, the possibility of being hit by debris at 70 miles an hour could cause serious damage to the eye, ear, nose, or any exposed area. I've also heard (although I've not seen much to substantiate it) that the wind can dry out the sinuses and thereby cause respiratory problems.

I'm also an advocate of restricting the movement of dogs in the car. They should be in an appropriate sized kennel, behind a gate, or wearing a seat belt (**shameless plug** all of which we carry or can order). Not only can a dog be a distraction while you're driving, but they can also be severely injured if you happen to be in an accident. Something else to remember is if the dog is ejected from the car, because of the amount of anxiety and/or shock, the dog not only runs the risk of being hit by another car, but can be difficult to catch. I've heard of at least one incident where a dog was shot because he had become so aggressive while rescue workers were trying to extricate the driver and passengers.

And of course, a dog should never be left alone in a car. Even on mild days, the temperature in a car can rise to 120 degrees within mere minutes, even with a cracked window. Even leaving the car running and air conditioner on may not be a good idea. I've heard of (unconfirmed) instances where dogs have died from carbon monoxide poisoning. Why risk it? If your dog can't come in with you, it's better just to leave him at home than to risk heat stroke or the death. Not to mention thousands of dogs are stolen from cars every year.

The guys at Car Talk have put together a pretty good little article with links to more information at http://www.cartalk.com/content/features/fido/dog-safe.html.

Mark your calendar

There are a couple of events coming up in the next few weeks.

April 8: Dining Out for Animals at participating locations. Lunch from 11 - 1 and Dinner form 5 - 10. Visit the Central Missouri Humane Society's website for more information.

May 8: Movie Night, presenting E.T. There will be live music, a silent auuction, and snacks. Doors open at the Missouri Theatre Center for the Arts at 5:30. The movie starts at 7:00. Visit Columbia Second Chance's website or The Missouri Theatre's website for more information.

Positively Victoria

Victoria Stillwell has started a new website about positive training. She has brought together some of the best trainers in the business to share their insight on training that is founded in science and a true understanding of the psychology of dogs and they way they learn.

The website is at http://positively.com
There is an excellent article here on the myths of positive reinforcement: http://positively.com/2010/03/22/fact-vs-fiction-part-i/

Nail Trimming

We now offer nail trimming 7 days a week for only $10. No appointment necessary, just come by during regular hours.

The Origin of Dogs All Over Again

I won't get into the specifics, and I am by no means a scientist, and was by no means part of the research team, but my personal belief is that domestication happened in relatively short period of time in many different locations. Humans, or what would become humans, were marauders until around 10,000 years ago - give or take a few thousands years - and it's my belief there was a trading of ideas and genetics when two or more of these groups met. The following article has a lot of supposition and according to one person, they neglected to sample some areas of Eastern Asia.

All that said, this is a fascinating article and sheds some new light on the whole topic.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/18/science/18dogs.html?hpw

Delayed Opening March 13

We will be opening at 1:00 on Saturday, March 13 in order to participate in the Mid-Missouri Chapter of the American Red Cross Pet First Aid class.