The Quintessential Seattle Dog

Dog drinking from a Starbucks cup...Can it get anymore "Seattle" than that? Perhaps if it were, "Dog drinking from a Starbucks cup at the top of the Space Needle," but that's not very realistic.

(Photo by CityDog friend Gail Howard.)

For more Seattle dogs, check out the Cowbelly Pet Photography blog and photographer Jamie Pflughoeft's favorite shots of 2007.

The Perfect Dog Guardian

Is there any such thing as The Perfect Dog Guardian? I use the term "guardian," because it seems to be preferred over "owner," implying that we don't "own" our dogs, but "guard" them. Wait, that doesn't sound right. Never mind. Anyway, back to my question about whether there is any such thing as The Perfect Dog Guardian/Owner.

Like most of us, I strive to be the best dog owner I can be to Scout and Ziggy (I prefer owner, because guardian sounds a bit contrived, but that's just me). I feed them premium dog food with ingredients like flaxseed, vitamin C, apples, carrots and human grade this and that. I frequently (albeit, sheepishly) buy them pig ears even though $5.95 for a packet of three disgusting-looking, discarded body parts seems expensive to me. Their treats consist of dehydrated, Alaskan-caught wild salmon, which stink to high heaven, but they love them. My house is littered with half-chewed squeaky toys and bones. I literally said to Ziggy the day I adopted him, "Dude, you just hit the jackpot." I could go on (like the fact that they are allowed on every piece of furniture in the house including the bed), but is it enough? Are they happy? Could I be a better dog owner?

Of course the answer is yes. It's like asking the rhetorical, "Could I be a better person?" The answer is always yes.

So, even though I will never be The Perfect Dog Guardian/Owner, I owe it to my dogs to at least try.

Brandie Ahlgren, editor, CityDog Magazine

My Dogs' New Year's Resolutions

I've been thinking a lot lately about my resolutions this coming new year. Typically, I don't make any because over the years I've realized that I'm not very good at keeping them. However, this year I resolve to stick to my resolutions, whatever they may be.

It also got me thinking about my dogs, Scout and Ziggy, and if they could make a list of their own resolutions, what would they be (whoknows, maybe they do make resolutions, but like me, end up breaking them come January 2nd)? Anyway, let's assume they can't, but if they could, this is what their lists would look like:

Scout: In 2008, I resolve to...

1. Lose a few pounds as recommended by my vet, so by my next visit I'm a "5" (perfect) versus a "6 1/2" (a little chunky) on the weight chart.
2. To do this, I resolve to exercise daily with at least a 20 to 30 minute walk.
3. Go on more road trips (I'm dying to visit the Washington wine country; I've heard it's fabulous and totally dog friendly).

Ziggy: In 2008, I resolve to...

1. Be nicer to Scout, not be so jealous and insecure, and not steal her toys.
2. Chill out more. Life is too short to freak out every time I see or hear another dog, person, car, squirrel, cat, piece of paper, twig, etc.
3. See Scout's resolutions 1, 2 and 3.

Yes, I realize that their resolutions are really my resolutions and that I need to go on more walks with them, take more roads trips, and work with Ziggy on his "issues." For the first time in years, I truly think these are resolutions I can keep!

Happy New Year!

Brandie Ahlgren, editor, CityDog Magazine

P.S. Make a comment: What are your dog's resolutions for 2008?

CityDog Yappy Howlidays Pawty Pictures!

Click here to view pictures from the third annual CityDog Yappy Howlidays Pawty at the swanky (and dog friendly) W Hotel Seattle!

CityDog Magazine on KOMO 4 TV's Northwest Afternoon!

CityDog founder and editor Brandie Ahlgren will be a guest on Seattle's own Northwest Afternoon this Friday to talk about dog friendly holiday entertaining plus great stocking stuffers and gift ideas for your pampered pooch. Be sure to watch the show this Friday, December 14th on KOMO, Channel 4 at 3 p.m.

Fall From Grace - Michael Vick Sentenced

Former NFL quarterback Michael Vick was sentenced today to a minimum of 23 months in prison for his part in a dogfighting ring, along with three years of supervised release and a ban on owning dogs. Aside from the obvious brutality of it, it's difficult to understand how someone so talented and at the pinnacle of his career, could jeopordize everything. I don't get it.

But, I suppose the silver lining in all of this, is the increased attention and awareness it's brought to the ugly world of dogfighting and that it's not just limited to poor, inner cities.

Also good news, today U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) introduced legislation that would allow for better tracking of animal cruelty crimes by including them in the FBI’s crime data reporting system to enable local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to collect national statistics on yearly crime rates, prevent recurrence of animal cruelty, and address its connection to other societal crimes.

W Hotel Seattle Offers New Pooch Package

At the W Hotel Seattle, they say "PAW" for Pets Are Welcome and they've introduced a brand new pooch pampering package that includes:

• Portrait sitting with Dane & Dane Photography for up to 4 people and 3 dogs
• $100 credit towards the print size of your choice
• Pet bed, food, and water bowls with floor mat to use in room, plus a pet turndown gift
• Pet toy, chef Adam Stevenson’s dog treat, woof id tag, 2 cello waste bags, and greenie bone
• Pet in-room dining menus and local dog-friendly attractions
• CityDog Magazine (yahoo!)
• Photographer-signed copy of Good Behavior Book for Dogs
• And a woof-onderful room that you’ll love...all for $689

Book by February 24, 2008 and stay by February 29, 2008.

*Additional nights available starting at $219 per night for a maximum of four night stay. See Terms & Conditions for more details. Rates do not include a non-refundable $100 cleaning fee.

For more information, click here.

Yappy Howlidays a Smashing Success!

For all of you who turned out for the third annual CityDog Yappy Howlidays Pawty, thank you! What fun it was seeing your furry friends dressed in their holiday finery. Yes, there were a few reindeer antlers, jingle bell collars, party dresses and even a couple of Santa suits! And, thank you to everyone who brought a donation for Pasado's Safe Haven. Your generosity will go a long way toward giving people who need it most some holiday cheer this season.

Check back in about a week...We'll have photos from the party posted for all to see!

Yappy Howlidays!

Event Reminder: CityDog Yappy Howlidays Pawty!

The Weather Outside May Be Frightful, but a

CityDog Yappy Howlidays Pawty is Quite Delightful!

WHO
CityDog Magazine, you and your holiday hound

WHAT
Join CityDog Magazine for a yappy howlidays cocktail party! Mingle with fellow pooch parents, sip cocktails and swap doggy tails. Photographer extraordinaire J. Nichole Smith of Dane & Dane Photography will be on hand to snap holiday portraits of your furry friend (available for purchase).

WHEN
Wednesday, December 05, 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM

WHERE
W Seattle, W Bar and Living Room
1112 4th AvenueSeattle, WA 98101
Click here for directions

WHY
For a good cause. If you bring pet food, toys, litter, leashes, collars, treats, beds*...essentially, anything a pet might need...we will donate it to Pasado's Safe Haven. Gift cards are also welcome. Then on Christmas Day, volunteers will deliver everything to those most in need. To learn more, visit http://www.pasadosafehaven.org/ or pick up a copy of CityDog's holiday issue to read more about this wonderful event. *Please donate new items only.

Party Animal Rules: Dogs must remain on-leash and be under your control at all times. Dogs (and people for that matter) must also play well with others. Thank you for your understanding!

Pet Day at Westlake Center

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

The weather gods are teasing us with forecasts of snow, however, should you decide to brave the weather tomorrow, head on down to Seattle's Westlake Center with your four-legged pal for an afternoon of fun and photos with Santa! The Qwest Carousel will be open for rides, with a suggested donation of $2 per ride to benefit Northwest Center. Folks will also be on hand to collect canned and dry pet food, as well as cash donations, for a local pet food bank to benefit pets of low income seniors.

When: Saturday, December 1st, 10am to 3pm
Where: Westlake Park, downtown Seattle at 4th and Pine

Pick up a FREE copy of CityDog Magazine's special holiday issue!

Monday's Mutt Must Have!

Elaine Seamans of At-Choo has created a ring that sums it up for the dog lover in all of us: "When I am with my dog, I am complete." This ring as well as several other beautiful pieces including custom photo rings and pendants are available at http://www.at-choo.com/. If you're looking for the perfect gift this season for your dog loving partner, be sure to start here.

Seattle Humane Society’s Holiday Pet Food Drive Begins November 23

Continue the spirit of holiday giving this year by donating any kind of pet food (no restrictions) to the Seattle Humane Society’s Holiday Pet Food Drive.

On November 23, the Seattle Humane Society will begin its annual Holiday Pet Food Drive, with Safeway stores across King County accepting donations.

The greatest need is for dry cat food, but all kinds and types of pet food are appreciated. Look for drop-off barrels at your local Safeway, or stop by the Seattle Humane Society, located in Bellevue.

Last year, the Holiday Pet Food Drive raised over 16 tons of food, giving families across King County the ability to keep their pet through a difficult time. Over 1000 pets received food every single month, thanks to the generosity of the community.

For more information on the Seattle Humane Society’s Holiday Pet Food Drive, call (425) 649-7567 or visit http://www.seattlehumane.org/.

The Holiday Pet Food Drive will last through December 30.

Monday's Mutt Must Have!

It's not Cranium, but it will make you use your brain...your dog's too! Funagle is a new board game people and their dogs play together. Players have one minute to "funagle" their dog into performing activities called out on removable tags that make up the game board. With each task completed such as "Moonwalk," "Do the Wave" and other tricks, you win a tag. The team with the most tags wins! No skill is needed to play...just plenty of treats, a sense of humor and your best friend.

$35.50 at darfinc.com.

CityDog Quoted in the Seattle PI

Click here to read an interesting article in last Sunday's Seattle PI regarding dog whisperer Cesar Millan and his recent visit to Seattle to help Buddy, a two-year-old pit bull with serious aggression issues. The article's author Sarah McCormick also takes a close look at modern dog culture and our attitudes toward our four-legged friends, quoting the editor of Seattle's own CityDog Magazine, Brandie Ahlgren.

"Seattle resident Brandie Ahlgren noticed this trend a few years ago, and in 2005 began publishing CityDog, a magazine aimed at Northwest dog owners. 'As people are having children later, dogs are more part of our family," she says. "They've moved from the backyard into our beds.'"

This article by Eric Sorensen in the Seattle Times' Pacific Northwest Magazine is a little older, but just as interesting, with another quote from CityDog's editor Brandie Ahlgren:

"A few years ago Brandie Ahlgren got a boxer. She dropped $25 on her first trip to the pet store, then saw she was spending $50 every couple weeks on toys and food. She noticed the Next to Nature pet store in West Seattle was knocking out a wall and expanding. She started talking with people at the Westcrest off-leash area and noticed a certain expression in their faces. 'I just got that sense of the joy the dog brings to their lives,' she says. It all added up to market research for the launch of CityDog, a quarterly magazine built around Northwest dogs and published in Seattle. 'It wasn't about just the numbers of dogs in the area,' Ahlgren says. 'It was about the attitudes to dogs in the area.'"

To read the full article in Pacific Northwest Magazine, click here.

And, here are two more articles in the Seattle PI you might find interesting:

Seattle magazine puts on the dog

CityDog's Muttmazing Race benefits Seattle Animal Shelter

Oregon Humane Society Cattery is Full

Don't let the name fool you...CityDog may be a dog magazine, but when it comes to helping animals we don't discriminate. In fact, we just received word that the Oregon Humane Society's cattery is full and they are asking the public to adopt 100 cats by Thanksgiving.

“We’ve run out of room at the inn when it comes to cats,” said OHS Executive Director Sharon Harmon. “We’re asking the public to adopt 100 cats by Thanksgiving so we can open our cattery doors to other homeless animals who are waiting in the wings,” she said.

Because of the unexpectedly large number of cats brought to the shelter in recent weeks, OHS was forced to take the extraordinary step of suspending all cat admissions until further notice, including those cats who were scheduled to come to the shelter over the next two weeks. With cat admissions on stand-by, people who bring homeless cats to OHS are being directed to other animal shelters and being asked to care for the animal until space is available at OHS.

“Because we never euthanize animals for space reasons, we are asking for the public’s understanding and patience in this difficult time,” said Harmon. OHS operates much like a hotel, scheduling appointments for the public to bring in cats as space becomes available. “If we are successful in adopting out 100 cats by Thanksgiving,” said Harmon, “we should be able to resume bringing in the cats whose arrival we’ve been forced to delay.”

For more information, please visit www.oregonhumane.org.

'Tis the Season to "Paw-tay!"

CityDog Magazine's Third Annual Yappy Howlidays "Paw-tay!"

This is a CityDog Social Club event open to two- and four-legged alike. Enjoy cocktails, holiday treats, holiday portraits by J. Nichole Smith of Dane & Dane Photography, free goodies and more.

When & Where: December 5th, 6 to 8 p.m. at the swanky W Hotel Seattle, 1112 4th Avenue. No charge; just be there or be square.

For more information, visit http://www.yappyhowlidays.com/.

For a good cause: If you bring food, toys, litter, leashes, collars, treats, beds*…essentially, anything a pet might need...we will donate it to Pasado's Safe Haven. Gift cards are also welcome. Then on Christmas Day, volunteers will deliver everything to those most in need. To learn more, visit http://www.pasadosafehaven.org/ or pick up a copy of CityDog's holiday issue to read more about this wonderful event.

*Please donate new items only.

Monday's Must Have

Stocking stuffer? Hostess gift? Treats for your next party? How about all of the above?! We discovered these delectable doggie truffles and petit fours from Seattle company Petit Four Legs when researching for our holiday entertaining piece featured in the current issue of CityDog (see below). The truffles are made with dog safe carob melted over a crunchy peanut butter cookie and topped with an intricate doggie-design. For more information, visit http://www.petitfourlegs.com/.

Special Holiday Issue Hot-Off-The-Press!

'Tis the season for good friends, good food and of course, good Fidos! CityDog's extra special, bonus holiday issue arrives tomorrow from the printer and it's loaded with gift and fashion ideas for you and your dog loving friends and family members!

We've included everything from how to throw a dog friendly holiday party to what to wear (literally, from head to toe) for a day at the dog park, out on the town, in the great outdoors or at your next yappy hour! We've also included some great gift and stocking stuffer ideas plus CityDog's Top 10 places to walk your dog in the city and the Top 5 places for your holiday photo with Fido.

So, if you're not already a subscriber, what are you waiting for...? Treat yourself or give the gift that will have tails wagging! A subscription is just $15.00 and includes five issues. Visit www.citydogmagazine.com to subscribe today!

Woof!
CityDog Magazine

Monday's Muttmazing Must-Have!

Drop whatever it is you're doing right now and dog trot over to Trophy Cupcakes for a little taste of heaven. We kept hearing about how delicious these cupcakes were, so we decided to try them out for ourselves and...oh...my...god.

Then, Trophy was kind enough to provide CityDog Magazine with a dozen cupcakes for a story on holiday entertaining "doggie style." Get this, you can email them a photo of your best pal and they'll customize your cupcakes. These delectable morsels feature our four-legged party hosts Roxy and Josie. For more ideas on how to throw a holiday "paw-tay," pick up a copy of our special CityDog Holiday Gift & Fashion Guide, on newsstands November 1.

Note: Trophy Cupcakes are for people, not pups. Just thought we'd clarify.

Monday's Recommendation - Mark Your Calendar

COLA's 8th Annual Dog-O-Ween • October 27 • Seattle, Wash. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Genesee Park off-leash area. With this event just a month away, it's time to start thinking costumes. Dog-O-Ween is one of CityDog's favorite events, with a human/canine costume contest, raffle, auction and a doggone good time! www.dogoween.org

Recommended Reading

What I like about this nifty little book, is it puts the responsibility solely on the owner to raise a well-mannered, well-trained dog that is properly socialized and pleasant to be around. Don't let the name fool you...Miss Fido Manners is not fluff; it is a practical how-to for any occasion, from at-home training to proper etiquette when out and about with your pooch.

Join CityDog and Miss Fido Manners herself, Charlotte Reed, this Wednesday, September 19 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the W Hotel Seattle, 1112 4th Avenue.

Enjoy hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and a fido fashion show (this particular party is for people only).

Check out the September issue of Seattle Magazine, on newsstands now! It features an article written by none other than CityDog editor Brandie Ahlgren about all the wacky and wonderful ways you can spend money on your pooch. From practical (specialty veterinary care) to outrageous (Brazilian trim anyone?), our metronatural mutts have got it made!

Click here to read the article online.

Monday's Recommendation

The Perfect Petfeeder by Northwest company Pillar Pet Products is a little pricey, but worth its weight by providing scheduled, portion-controlled feedings for your chow hound. Besides the convenience factor, what I like best about this pet appliance, is that it removes the human element from your pet's feedings. Here's an example: Friends of mine in Maryland have two extremely overweight, food obsessed cats. Starting at around 6 a.m., they begin with pacing and meowing at the pantry. When that doesn't work, they resort to jumping on and off the bed, stomping across your head until you give up and feed them. If this sounds familiar or if you simply want the convenience, check out the Perfect Petfeeder.

Read more about this product and several other cool products in the fall issue of CityDog Magazine, on newsstands now or subscribe today!

Events in September

September is a busy month for events as the dog days of summer wind down. Here a few events you won't want to miss this month:

• PAWSwalk, September 8 at Sand Point Magnuson Park • 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (check-in begins at 8 a.m.) Come bark in the park and help animals on a walk with your dog. Afterward, enjoy the animal-friendly shopping, canine demonstrations, CityDog Cover Dog Model Search, delicious treats and more. All to support the animals at PAWS. http://www.pawswalk.net/
• Fido Fashions, September 14 • Noon – 1 p.m. at the Hotel Monaco, 1101 Fourth Ave., Seattle, Wash. Adoptable pooches from The Humane Society for Seattle/King County will strut their stuff outfitted in the latest doggie fashions for fall.
• Harbor Hounds, September 22 • 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Worth the drive, this event in beautiful downtown Gig Harbor, Wash. combines a fun, leisurely two-mile walk along the gorgeous waterfront with a variety of entertainment, contests, vendors, food, and loads of tail-wagging fun. http://www.harborhounds.com/
• And of course, the CityDog Cover Dog Model Search, 3 p.m., September 23 at Fremont Oktoberfest. For more details, see below.

For even more events happening in September and beyond, check out our Calendar of Events at http://www.citydogmagazine.com/.

2nd Annual CityDog Cover Dog Model Search

CityDog Magazine is looking for its next cover dog! Big dogs, little dogs, mutts...ALL dogs are welcome to try out to be the next CityDog cover dog.

This is our second citywide cover dog model search. Last year, over 200 dogs strutted their stuff on the catwalk, raising more than $1,000 to help animals.

Where and When:

Noon, September 8, 2007 at PAWSwalk, Seattle's Sand Point Magnuson Park. Space is limited to 25 dogs.

3pm, September 23, 2007 at Fremont Oktoberfest. Space is unlimited! Please arrive at least a half hour before the event.

All in the spirit of fun and to raise money for a good cause, the winning pooch will be privy to a professional photo shoot with photographer J. Nichole Smith of Dane & Dane Photography to grace the cover of the Winter 2007 or Spring 2008 issue of CityDog Magazine.

Cost: $10.00 per dog, with all of the proceeds going to PAWS and Reading With Rover.

To register, please click here. Pre-registering will speed up the process on the day of the event.

Woof!

CityDog Recommends

Next dinner party at your favorite dog loving-oenophile's house, pick up a bottle of delicious wine featuring none other than a dog on the label.

For those of us in the Pacific Northwest, finding a good wine is not difficult. Turns out, finding a good wine with a dog on the label isn't so difficult either. Here are three that we can highly recommend from our own personal taste test:

Three Legged Red, Dunham Cellars, Walla Walla, Washington

O'Reilly's, Own Roe, Willamette Valley, Oregon

Sleeping Dog Wines, Yakima River Valley, Washington

CityDog Recommends

I apologize for being a couple days late on this week's CityDog recommended product. The fall issue went to press yesterday, so needless to say, it was a little crazy around the office. Anyway, I've decided to stay on the topic of green living and recommend another eco-friendly product. Although summer is waning, we still have a few more months of lawn care and if your lawn is like mine, you're in need of this product. Dog Spot Eliminator, produced by The Organic Farm Store in Spokane, Wash., eliminates those ugly brown spots in your lawn caused by your dog's, um, pee. It contains micro nutrients with no added fillers, so it's safe for your dog and the environment and can be used to pretreat grassy areas. When applied over the entire lawn, it reduces the intensity of further spots and aids the natural recovery of affected areas, making spot treatments more effective. Check it out at The Organic Farm Store.

CityDog Recommends

These plush toys from Simply Fido are not only cute, they're environmentally friendly. Made with organic, all-natural materials -- cotton that is organically grown, fibers that are unbleached, untreated, and unprocessed, and dyes made with nature’s own plants and minerals, including chestnut bur, clove, and gardenia seed -- you can rest assured that these toys are non-toxic to your dog and gentle on the environment. Simply Fido, along with many other green pet products, will be featured in the next issue of CityDog Magazine, available September 1.

Michael Vick Chew Toy

Revenge is sweet...a dog chew toy in the likeness of NFL quarterback Michael Vick. We think every pit bull should have one!

On a serious note, CityDog will feature the topic of dog fighting in our fall issue and what is being done about it. Watch for it on newsstands this September.

Monday's Recommendation

Okay, so it's Tuesday. Better late than never, here is our recommendation...Northwest company, Krebs Recycle, fashions recycled climbing rope into leashes. The rope comes from indoor climbing gyms and mountain guide services retiring their rope after a season of climbing. How cool is it to imagine your dog's leash might've summited Everest!

Price: $13.00 to $15.00 at Railey's Leash & Treat, Urban Beast and Krebs Recycle.

For more eco-friendly, organic and recycled pet products, pick up a copy of our fall issue on newsstands in September. Our CityDog Living feature is all about going green with your dog.

New! CityDog Recommends

Every Monday, CityDog will have a recommendation for you, whether it's an upcoming event you won't want to miss or a great new product we recently discovered or a new book we think you might enjoy. This Monday, CityDog is pleased to recommend the SENSE-ible Harness. We LOVE it! The leash clips to a ring on the front of the dog's chest, preventing it from pulling. It's that simple. It took my dog Ziggy about five minutes to figure out that if he pulls, he turns in the opposite direction. No choke chains or spiked collars (ick) -- just simple engineering! You can purchase the SENSE-ible Harness at the Pearl Retriever in Portland, Oregon or order it online at http://www.softouchconcepts.com/.

CityDog's Muttmazing Race

It's the Amazing Race...doggie style! CityDog Magazine is hosting the first-ever Muttmazing Race at the rockin' South Lake Union Block Party, Friday, August 10 from noon to 7pm to raise money for the Seattle Animal Shelter.

Dog lovers and their furry, four-legged companions will compete in a variety of challenges such as "sit and get lei'd," "the puppy tunnel of love," "sit pretty for a picture," "find the treat" and more! The human/canine team with the best overall time wins! Challenges are designed to be fun first, challenging second and ALL dogs are welcome.

Only the individual challenges are timed, so in between you can can quench your thirst in the beer garden, check out the vendor booths, sample foods from neighborhood restaurants, hang out in the special dog area, listen to live music including local favorite Harvey Danger -- all as part of the South Lake Union Block Party. The festivities end with an outdoor movie screening of Little Miss Sunshine.

The cost to compete in the Muttmazing Race is just $10.00 with all of the proceeds going to the Seattle Animal Shelter's Help the Animals Fund.

To learn more about CityDog's Muttmazing Race and/or to pre-register online, visit www.muttmazingrace.com. To learn more about the South Lake Union Block Party including a schedule of the full day's events, visit www.slublockparty.com.

Woof!

Nominate Your TopDog!

Nominate your TopDog in a variety of categories including favorite pet store, doggie daycare, groomer, dog park, weekend getaway, toy, treat and more! We will tally the results and feature the winners in the fall issue of CityDog Magazine. Please be as specific as possible, whether it's a name of a trail to walk/run/hike or the brand of a favorite dog toy. Your vote is extremely important, so please let us know your TopDog picks today! Click here to cast your ballot! Ballots are due by August 1.

Safety Tips for Your Hot Dog

This week’s heat wave is not only uncomfortable, it can be deadly for fur-coated animals such as dogs and cats. Temperatures in the Northwest are expected to reach triple digits in some areas. The Oregon Humane Society wants to pass on its list of “do’s and don’ts” for keeping your pets safe in the hot weather.

DON’T:

- Do not take your pet in the car with you. The inside of a car heats up very quickly. On an 85-degree day, a car’s interior temperature can climb to 120 degrees in 20 minutes, even with the windows slightly open. Another concern is dogs riding on uncovered pickup beds. The sun heats up the metal truck bed and can burn your pet’s pads. Keep Fido at home!

- Do not leave pets unattended outside when it gets too hot – bring pets inside.

- Do not take your dog for a game of fetch during the heat of the day, because he may overheat. Walk your dog in the cool of the evening and morning.

DO:

- Keep your pets inside the house, with plenty of water.

- If your pets must be outside, make sure they have shade and plenty of water available.

- Get a “kiddy pool” and fill it with water for your dogs to splash and play in. They will love it.

Symptoms of heatstroke could include restlessness, excessive thirst, heavy panting, and lethargy, lack of appetite, dark tongue, vomiting, and lack of coordination. Contact your veterinarian.

If your animal is overcome by heat exhaustion, immediately immerse or spray the animal with cool running water (not cold water as that could cause shock) and continue until body temperature lowers. Give your pet water to drink and consult your veterinarian right away to determine if additional treatment is needed.

If you suspect an emergency situation has developed and you see someone else's animal in immediate danger from the heat, first consult the owner if possible and then contact your local animal control agency or local police department.

Friday Fido Photo Pick: Meet Maxwell

This photo comes all the way from Oviedo, Florida! Meet Maxwell, a one-year-old boxer. Maxwell's mom says he is very affectionate and loves people and would LOVE to have his picture on the cover of City Dog Magazine. For now, we are pleased to have him as our Friday photo pick!

Photo submitted by Christine Eaton.

CityDog on KIXI 880 AM Radio!

Tune in this Sunday to Seattle's KIXI 880 AM at 10:30am to hear CityDog editor Brandie Ahlgren discuss places your dog can stay while you're away with travel radio show hosts Claire Nolan and Doug Prior of Alki Tours.

Thank God It's Over...

I love the Fourth of July and all of the festivities surrounding it...backyard barbeques with friends and family, stunning fireworks display, manufactered patriotism that is oh-so American...Unfortunately, my dogs don't share the same sentiment. And from the many emails I've received today, many of your dogs didn't appreciate it either. For a lot of dogs (and cats, horses, birds...), the fourth is the most stressful day of the year. Starting around 9pm lastnight, when things started kicking into high gear, I (like many of you I'm sure) was holed up inside the house, windows shut tight, t.v. volume on high, treats on hand for the dogs (drink in hand for me). Anyway, I hope your pets faired well and on their behalf...thank god it's over.

Check Out the July Issue of Seattle Magazine

Check out the July issue of Seattle Magazine on newsstands now, featuring a fabulous article by Kelley L. Moore on how to throw a party for our party hounds! Notice the call out to readers on page 117 to check out the summer issue of CityDog Magazine (also on newsstands now), with a feature on how to throw a dog-friendly backyard barbeque. Whether indoor or out, let the "pawty" begin!

A Safe and Happy Fourth for Fido

This Independence Day, the Seattle Humane Society urges you to follow these basic safety tips:

KEEP YOUR PETS INSIDE
Secure your pet in a safe, enclosed room, preferably one without windows. If you are hosting guests at your home, consider keeping your pet in a room that is off-limits to guests, with plenty of water and food.

CREATE A CALMING ENVIRONMENT
Surround your pet with favorite toys and other familiar objects. Play soothing music and keep the room as quiet as possible by closing doors, windows, and blinds.

KEEP AWAY FROM FIREWORKS
Besides the potential toxicity pets can experience from ingesting the gun powder in firecrackers, there is the obvious risk of accidentally burning or injuring your pet by allowing them to be in the same vicinity as fireworks.

UPDATE IDENTIFICATION
The biggest risk this Fourth of July is that your pet will get loose and become lost. Even if your pet is secured inside, the sound of fireworks can cause them to enter an extreme panic mode. Dogs have been known to break through glass windows and cats are expert escape artists. Make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing identification. Call to confirm that your veterinarian and the microchip company have your current address and phone numbers.

Pets in need of microchip identification can be brought to the Seattle Humane Society Wednesday through Friday, 3 to 5 p.m., or Saturday through Sunday, 2 to 4 p.m. for $20 implantation, including national registry. No appointment necessary. Call (425) 641-0080 for more information.

The Seattle Humane Society has been protecting people and pets since 1897. Visit in person or online at http://www.seattlehumane.org/ to learn more about the Seattle Humane Society.

CityDog Summer Solstice Pawty!

Another doggone good time at a CityDog Social Club event! The CityDog Summer Solstice Pawty was a blast thanks to all (two- and four-legged) who attended. It was a beautiful, sunny day in Seattle...perfect weather for an outdoor party to celebrate the summer solstice with our furry friends. Approximately 80 people and 65 dogs were in attendance and everyone (dogs and people too) were on their best behavior! Also, a big thank you to Acalia (www.acaliaevents.com) for providing us with the venue, amazing food and fantastic service.

Stay tuned for the next CityDog Social Club event coming soon!

Last Call! CityDog Summer Solstice Pawty!

Is it true? Could Summer finally be here? Hot-diggity-dog, yes! And, it's time for you and your party animal to celebrate. You and your furry friend are invited to kick off the season at the CityDog Summer Solstice Pawty...where all the cool dogs will be!

When: Wednesday, June 20, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Where: Acalia, 301 Queen Anne Avenue North, Seattle (located on lower Queen Anne). Click here for directions.

Cost: $20.00 per person (canines free, of course).

Price includes:

• Hors d'oeuvres plus one beverage ticket.
• Gift bags filled with goodies for you and your furry friend.
• Elegant outdoor courtyard in full view of the Space Needle.
• No-host beer and wine bar.
• Doggie Biscotti treats provided by the Girl Scouts of America.
• Mingling and more...

There are a few tickets left, so please RSVP today with your name and the number of people and/or dogs in your party to rsvp@citydogmagazine.com. Upon email confirmation of your RSVP, you may pay by credit card by calling 206.762.0643. Woof!

Party Animal Rules: Dogs must remain on-leash and be under your control at all times. Dogs (and people for that matter) must also play well with others. Thank you for your understanding!

Friday is Take Your Dog to Work Day!

Every day is take your dog to work day at CityDog Magazine. However, Friday, June 22 is National Take Your Dog to Work Day to celebrate the bond between pets and their humans. It is also hoped that once dog-less co-workers see the meaningful relationships enjoyed by colleagues who are dog guardians, they will be encouraged to adopt a dog from a shelter.

Employers can receive more information about making their companies dog friendly on June 22 by visiting the national organizers of National Take Your Dog to Work Day, Pet Sitters International. Log on to http://www.petsit.com/ for details.

Tips for a successful Take Your Dog to Work Day from the Oregon Humane Society:

1. Be sure your employer approves; check to make sure all employees are okay with this event (allergies or fearfulness of dogs may make it unpleasant for some)
2. Get the okay to have animals from your building manager
3. Dogs brought to work should be well socialized and friendly
4. Keep your dog on a leash and under your control at all times
5. Schedule frequent potty breaks
6. Have a back up plan should your dog not make it through the day
7. Limit the number of dogs brought to the work place – depending on the size of the office, location of “relief” area, number of employees wanting to participate, etc.
8. Plan ahead to make sure you are not under stressful deadlines as this is a day when you may not be as productive as usual
9. Bring toys and treats to keep your dog engaged
10. Dogs brought to work should be current on vaccinations and have proper identification. It would be best if the dogs were over 1 year old and spayed/neutered

Friday Photo Pick! Smart Dogs Read CityDog

Smart dogs read CityDog! This picture was taken after one-year-old yellow Lab, Allie, checked into the dog-friendly Hotel Monaco in Seattle, where guests receive a complimentary copy of CityDog Magazine with their stay. However, we were told that although it looks like she is reading CityDog and flipping the pages with her mouth, truth be told, she is actually trying to eat it. So… CityDog is not only a great read, but apparently tastes good too!

Photo submitted by Julie Keyes.

Arriving June 1st! The Summer issue of CityDog Magazine!

It's official, the summer issue of CityDog is at the printer as we speak! Whew! It is scheduled to deliver on June 1st and will be in subscribers' hands and in pet stores/newsstands shortly thereafter.

And, I cannot tell you how much I love this cover! Actually, the entire issue is awesome, if I do say so myself. Articles include everything from throwing a dog friendly backyard barbecue with recipes from Seastar owner and chef John Howie to the best hikes in Washington with your dog, written by none other than the guy who wrote Best Hikes With Dogs Inland Northwest!

Other articles include: incredible stories of rescue dogs, holistic alternatives, advice on whether you should play tug with your dog or not, an expanded Bark of the Town section, dog-friendly condominium listing for the Puget Sound area, and much much more!

Seriously, this issue is packed, so it is officially time to add pages starting with the next issue. That's right, CityDog is expanding from 48 pages to 64! And, we are adding a bonus fifth issue: CityDog's special holiday issue. So, instead of four issues a year, you will receive five...for the same subscription price of $15.00. If you are not a subscriber, what are you waiting for? Subscribe today at www.citydogmagazine.com and look for the Summer issue to arrive soon!

Pugs Take to the Streets

A parade of hundreds of Pugs this Sunday will mark the world's largest gathering of Pugs and their owners. The pampered pooches will parade outside their favorite Portland pub -- MacTarnahan's Tap Room -- while owners enjoy food and drink, and judges crown the King and Queen of Pugs.

All dogs (not just Pugs) are welcome, but must be on leash.

The outdoor event features:

-- Pug costume contest -- Pug kissing booth -- Dogs for adoption from the Oregon Humane Society -- Food and beverages from MacTarnahan's Tap Room -- Free health consultations from Banfield, The Pet Hospital- - Vendors and exhibitors!

When: Sunday, May 20Time: 1 -4 pm
Where: MacTarnahan's Tap Room, 2730 NW 31st Ave., Portland
Cost: $10 suggested donation to the Oregon Humane Society; Pugs (and other dogs) free; kids under 11 free.

With 100 percent of admission donations and t-shirt revenues going directly to the Oregon Humane Society, the Pug Crawl depends on volunteer staffing and the generosity of the following local sponsors: The Oregon Humane Society; Meridian Realty; Banfield, The Pet Hospital; MacTarnahan's Tap Room; and KINK fm 102.

For more information, visit www.oregonhumane.org/pugcrawl

Last Chance to Vote for the Ugliest Chihuahua!

On Saturday, May 5th celebrate Cinco de Mayo at The BottleNeck Lounge for the crowning of the Ugliest Chihuahua in Seattle. Contestant photos are currently on display here and voting ceases on May 3rd at midnight. Voters can vote online or by ballot at The Bottleneck Lounge, 2328 E. Madison St. The winning Chihuahua will be crowned at 11 p.m. on Cinco de Mayo and will receive $100 in cash, $100 in services from Seattle’s own Downtown Dog Lounge and a guest appearance on the “Hair of the Dog” specialty drink menu at The Bottleneck Lounge.

These events are open to everyone, although all children (two- and four-legged) must be left behind (this is, after all, a lounge). Ugliest Chihuahua need not be present to win.

Here's a preview of one of the contestants! Ooooooh, scary!

West Coast Cities "Most Humane"

Many of you will not be surprised by this, but today the Humane Society of the United States unveiled America's most humane cities, with San Francisco leading the nation, followed by Seattle and Portland. In fact, West Coast cities generally performed better than other areas of the country. How is this related to CityDog? Our main distribution areas are Seattle, Portland and northern California. We take great pride that our dog loving readers live in the most humane cities in the country! Aaaaaaah, I just shed a little tear.

I'm a huge fan of the PBS program NATURE and of course an avid dog lover, so this is right up my alley! Shot in high-definition, DOGS THAT CHANGED THE WORLD investigates canine evolution and how dogs through the ages contribute to the socio-economic history of man which continues today. DOGS features breathtaking cinematic sequences taped around the world from Xolo dogs in Mayan ruins in Mexico to singing dogs in the jungles of Papua New Guinea. Airs Sundays, April 22 & 29 on PBS. Check your local listing for time.

Seattle Pet Photographer Bev Sparks on Oprah!

Seattle's renowned pet photographer Bev Sparks and her images will be featured by none other than t.v.'s talk show queen...Oprah! The show airs April 25th and is all about dogs, with Bev's beautiful images as the backdrop. Bev has shot three covers for CityDog Magazine as part of our ongoing effort to support local animal welfare groups. This cover was auctioned off at last year's Tuxes & Tails, the Humane Society for Seattle/King County's annual fundraiser. CityDog is donating another cover at this year's Tuxes & Tails, with Bev once again donating her time and talent. Tuxes & Tails is this Saturday, April 21st (for more details visit www.seattlehumane.org). You can bid to have your dog on the cover of CityDog Magazine, photographed by Bev Sparks! To see more of Bev's work visit www.dogphotography.com.

Friday Photo Pick #2

Today is a double Friday photo pick! Couldn't resist this photo of two Chihuahua girls (Besa, on left and Tica, on right). Photo submitted by Doug Canfield of Kenmore, Wash.

If you have a photo you would like to submit, please email it to info@citydogmagazine.com. And, don't forget to subscribe to CityDog Magazine at www.citydogmagazine.com.

Friday Photo Pick - Puttin' On the Ritz

Meet Ritz, a two year old male Chihuahua who spent the first nine months of his life living in a motel room in Los Angeles before being rescued by his current owner, a second year veterinary student at Michigan State University who LOVES to photograph his most prized pooch. Photo submitted by Nathaniel Lam.

Friday Photo Pick! Good Dog in Badlands

Meet Jackie, part whippet and German shorthaired pointer (at least this is what her humans guess she is), posing in Badlands, South Dakota on a recent move from Detroit to Seattle. Welcome to the great Northwest Jackie! Photo submitted by Sang Koh.

Pet Food Recall Update

More products have been added to the pet food recall including a dry food product for cats: http://health.msn.com/healthnews/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100159792&GT1=9246

Woman sick after eating tainted dog food

Listening to the radio this morning, there was a bit about a woman falling ill after eating tainted dog food. What?! Did I hear that right?! Yep, sure did. Read on fellow dog lovers: http://www.mississauganews.com/mi/news/story/3922983p-4534345c.html

Friday Photo Pick - "I Pitty, The Fool" Photo Contest

In honor of April Fool's Day and to celebrate the pit bull, Pit Bull Rescue Central has created a gallery of jokers and jesters submitted by pit bull lovers.

This is our favorite, but you can help decide which one will be crowned this year’s #1 Pitty Fool by visiting Pit Bull Rescue Central to view over 100 pit bulls in all their foolish glory!

Tainted Pet Food Hits Close to Home

I am deeply sorry to report that a friend of CityDog's has been affected by the recent pet food recall. Seattle designer Tath Hossfeld and husband Dennis recently lost their dog Ranger after a heroic battle with seizures and kidney failure from tainted dog food. Being 13 made him all the more vulnerable to this horrific twist of fate. We are pleased to say that Mo, the couple's other English Setter, seems to be doing okay. Tath and Dennis describe Ranger as brave with a gentle heart, an emphatic old soul, noble and loyal. They ask that you please give your pets a hug for them. Our deepest sympathy to the Hossfelds during this difficult time.

Looking for something to do with your pooch this Saturday? Then head to a special kick off event to Poochapalooza at the Marysville Strawberry Festival. This kick off event features the Poochapalooza Poster Contest, where photographer Natalie Court from Clear Image Portrait Studio will take headshot pictures of each participating dog to pick for the “2007 Poochapalooza Poster Dog.” The winning dog will also receive a free professional photo shoot at Clear Image. The event this Saturday is free (with a suggested donation of $5.00 to go toward funding an off-leash dog park in Marysville). All dogs will receive a free doggy bag filled with treats, coupons and surprises.

Saturday, March 31st from 1 –3 PM at Comeford Park, downtown Marysville off State Street between 5th and 6th. All dogs must be leashed.

The official Poochapalooza is June 9th at Asbery Field from 10 AM – 5 PM. Admission is $15.00 for 1st dog and $5.00 for each additional dog. Proceeds will go toward an off-leash dog park for Marysville.

For more information go to http://www.maryfest.com/ or call Leslie Buell at 425 268-5285.

Friday Photo Pick - The Beast Rider

Recently out for dinner with a friend, she told me about her friend Micki who rides a motorcycle with dog Kaycee on the back, using a contraption called the "Beast Rider." Well of course I was intrigued and said "You MUST send me pictures!" Pictured here is Micki's husband Boots, with Kaycee riding shotgun, wearing safety Doggles no less. We'll have more about the Beast Rider, Doggles, K-Noggles and more in the summer issue of CityDog. In the meantime, check out the Beast Rider website here. Gives meaning to the phrase "motorcycle mutt." Or, how about "Dog Hog?"

CityDog Stirs Debate

Have you ever Googled yourself? C'mon...you know you want to. It's interesting what you might stumble upon. I found this blog when Googling CityDog to see what's out there. Essentially, the debate continues about pooches in pubs, but this one takes a spin from dogs enjoying a cold one to children misbehaving in restaurants. Can the childless (of both the two- and four-legged kind) find any peace in our dog loving, child rearing society?
http://blogs.thenewstribune.com/edsdiner/?title=in_dog_he_trusts&more=1&c=1&tb=1&pb=1

Pet Food Recall

People are worried about the latest pet food recall...and for good reason. The brands effected now total 51 dog foods and 40 cat foods. Major brands like Iams and Nutro, which are manufactured by Menu Foods and in stores across the country. Currently, the recall is limited to wet food; "cuts and gravy" to be more specific. And, they may have (but are not 100% certain) identified the ingredient causing the kidney failures as wheat gluten. Regardless, it's better to be safe than sorry. First, read your pet food label. Also, if you are feeding your pet(s) wet food, specifically "cuts and gravy," switch to dry. Go to your pet food manufacturer's website. CityDog did a test search with a few of the smaller manufacturers like Natura and Wellness and found information posted on their home pages (neither are part of the recall, by the way). Also, go to the Menu Foods website (http://www.menufoods.com/recall/index.html to see if your pet food is listed and if you do find that you have been feeding your dog or cat food effected by the recall, call your vet. Signs of kidney failure include loss of appetite, lethargy, excessive urinating and excessive drinking of water. On another note, we're pretty disturbed that during tests by Menu Foods, the company fed its product to 40 to 50 dogs and cats and seven of the animals died. We understand that testing may save lives, but at what means?

Friday's Fido Photo Pick

Look at that face! And oh, what a girl would do for that thick, glossy mane of hair. Meet Miko, a chow/spaniel mix. Photo submitted by photographer Henry Schulz.

CityDog's Online Directory

We invite you to visit CityDog's online directory of advertisers to learn more about their outstanding products and services. Find everything you need from fine art pet photography to behaviorists and trainers, doggie daycares, pooch friendly accommodations, toys, clothing, accessories and more...all right here.

2nd CityDog Cover Dog Model Search

The second annual CityDog Cover Dog Model Search is a go again this fall at Seattle's Fremont Oktoberfest (date and time tbd). Last year, over 200 dogs strutted the "catwalk," raising money for animal welfare. The winner, Labradoodle Jessie Mei, is pictured here on CityDog's spring cover. Come one, come all for a good cause, good time and good doggies! Stay tuned...we'll have more details next month and in the summer issue of CityDog.

Friday's Fido Photo Pick

Okay, so it's Saturday...but anyway, here is our "Friday" Fido Photo Pick. Meet golden retriever Penny. We just couldn't resist that sweet golden smile. Photo submitted by Connie Conley of West Seattle.

When the Law Outlaws Pitbulls

Seems we need to clarify something we ran in our spring issue...In the Bark of the Town section on page 13, we include a mention about a recent breed ban in Royal City, Wash. The ordinance bans pit bulls and rottweilers from the town and the mayor is quoted as saying, "...the people who have these kinds of dogs are not always the most responsible." Because we included this quote without a follow up comment from CityDog (like "What the...?"), it could seem that we endorse this comment. In fact, a reader was under this impression. We do NOT agree with this statement. We agree with our reader that irresponsible dog ownership is not breed specific. Period. One of our favorite local organizations is the Pit Bull Project, www.pitbullproject.org (we featured an article on the Project in our Winter 2005 issue), and the work Anne Holte and her network of volunteers have done to not only rescue these dogs, but also educate people on the breed. We understand that this is a sensitive issue and will be sure to follow up on this topic in our summer issue. As always, thank you to our readers for keeping us on our toes!

Friday Photo Pick!

We think this image says it all...With this latest cold snap in the Northwest, who wouldn't be dreaming about heading to the beach? Pictured here is goldendoodle, Woody, stopping for a photo op on his way to Golden Gardens dog park. Photo submitted by CityDog subscriber Larissa Sweeney.

It's a Dog's Life at Seattle's Frank and Dunya

CityDog loves dog art and supporting artists who feature dogs as their subjects. In fact, in every issue we profile a local artist. The spring issue (hot-off-the-press today!) features Seattle artist Nancy Schutt (www.gooddogart.com). During the month of March, local gallery Frank and Dunya is hosting "It's a Dog's Life," a fun and funky art show featuring two artists who share our love of animals and a special appreciation of dogs. Kelley Callicoat and Barbara Noonan are professional artists working in different media, translating their love of dogs onto canvas and paper. Month of March; artists reception Friday, March 2, 2007 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at 3418 Fremont Ave N, Seattle; phone: 206.547.6760.

For the Love of Dog Paw-ty Pictures!

As you can see, the party hounds at the CityDog For the Love of Dog Paw-ty had a howling good time! Special thanks to the stellar Renaissance Hotel staff who took everything in stride (there were over 100 dogs, afterall), going out of their way to make every guest, two-and four-legged alike, feel welcome. Photos by Gail Howard.