Single Copy & Back Issues Now Available!

Single copies of the current issue and back issues through Summer 2007 are now available for purchase on the CityDog website. Want the current issue? Save a trip to the newsstand and have it mailed right to your door! Miss a back issue? Simply click on the Buy Now button for the issue you're looking for and we'll handle the rest!

To get started, click here!

Woof!

CityDog Magazine

A Few of Our Favorite Things: Part One

Want a day to simply hang out in bed and watch old movies? Grab your dog a fashionable duvet from Molly Mutt and he might be persuaded to forgo his daily walk to join you in the relaxation. The duvets are durable, washable, 100 percent cotton and fully zipped. Use it to add décor to an old dog bed or stuff it with blankets or old, recycled sweaters and tees (your dog will love that it smells like you) to start fresh. Sizes are available from small to large. $20-$40 at mollymutt.com.

This, and many more cool products are featured in the Spring 2009 issue of CityDog Magazine. To subscribe, simply click here.

This Dog Has Good Taste!

This was shared with us by a CityDog reader! Apparently, Captain loves his CityDog Magazine so much he ate it! Woof!

The Obamas Join the Ranks of Dog Lovers!

The internet is abuzz with news of Bo, the Obama family's newest member! Congratulations to the First Family on joining the ranks of millions of dog lovers! It's a special group to be in and we are thrilled to have you!

To read more about the First Pooch, click here.

Happy Easter!

My girl Scout at the newly dog-friendly Salish Lodge in Snoqualmie, Washington.

Happy Easter everyone, two- and four-legged alike!

Brandie Ahlgren, founder
CityDog Magazine

Photo by J. Nichole Smith, Dane + Dane Studios.

The Spring 2009 issue of CityDog Magazine is hot-off-the-press! It's your one-stop-shop for all there is to know about life and living with dogs in the West, with articles on everything from dog-friendly weekend getaways, to behavior and health, to regional events and adventures to be had with your four-legged friend.

For a sneak peek at the current issue simply click on the image above. We've packed it with things to do and places to go this spring with your pooch including a feature travel story about Northwest icon and newly dog-friendly Salish Lodge, overlooking the spectacular Snoqualmie Falls!

And, if you enjoy what you see, a one-year subscription to CityDog is just $18 or save even more with a two-year subscription for $30. That's 40% off the newsstand price. Enjoy the convenience of CityDog Magazine delivered directly to your door! CityDog is also sold in over 400 locations including independent pet stores and newsstands as well as major bookstores such as Barnes & Noble and Borders.

Woof!
Brandie Ahlgren, founder & editor
CityDog Magazine
Seattle, Wash.

Event Not to Be Missed!

Easter b'Egg Hunt
April 11 • Duvall, Wash. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. at Camp Charlie, 124th St. Bring your canine (s) to Camp Charlie’s for the annual Homeward Pet Adoption Center Easter b’Egg Hunt! This is such a fun event and the dogs really do enjoy the hunt for the eggs. For more information, visit homewardpet.org or call 425.488.4444 x404.

For more upcoming events visit our online calendar.

Good News!

Good news—Washington Senate Bill 5651, the bill that will help dogs in our state’s puppy mills, has passed the senate! It is now being considered in the Washington House of Representatives, which could vote on it as soon as next week.

SB 5651 will set a cap on the number of intact, adult dogs commercial breeders may keep, as well as establish basic standards of humane care for these dogs—including minimum requirements for cage size and exercise.

The next few days are a critical period for SB 5651. Please let your representative know that you want this bill to pass.

The spring issue of CityDog Magazine is hot-off-the-press and in it we delve into the recent puppy mill raids as told by the people on the front lines. For a sneak peek, click here.

To subscribe to CityDog Magazine, click here.

Update on Dog Tethering from King County Councilmember Larry Phillips

I wanted to share the below letter from King County Councilmember Larry Phillips regarding recommendations for banning dog tethering. This is good news!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Ms. Ahlgren,

Thank you for your interest in animal care in King County, and specifically in the practice of chaining dogs. I am pleased to announce that on March 30, 2009 the Metropolitan King County Council unanimously accepted a report recommending a partial ban on the continuous chaining or tethering of dogs. I was glad to sponsor this legislation.

Last year I wrote with the good news that the Council unanimously voted to ask the County Executive to study the costs and challenges of implementing such a ban in both the unincorporated areas of King County and in the 34 suburban cities that contract with King County for animal services. This week's legislation, Motion 2009-0159, accepts the Executive's response.

In short, the Executive recommends an outright ban on tethering dogs in certain situations, including no tethering:

• Of puppies under 6 months old
• Of sick or injured dogs
• Using training chains, choke chains, or pinch chains
• During periods of extreme weather (heat, cold, windstorms)
• If there is no access to water, shelter, and dry ground

In addition, the Executive recommends a ban on any night-time tethering of all dogs (for example, no tethering between 9 pm-5 am). These bans would be in effect in unincorporated King County, as well as in any cities that contract with King County for animal care and control services that wish to be included in the ban. You can read the full report online at the following link: http://www.kingcounty.gov/council.aspx

The Council will be taking a close look at the findings and recommendations of the report, as well as the associated costs of implementing a ban. Citizen input has been and will continue to be very important in considering moving forward with a ban, so I appreciate knowing your views on this matter.

There is significant evidence that continuous chaining of dogs is inhumane and may result in increased vicious and aggressive behavior toward other animals and humans. Thus, banning the continuous chaining of dogs may help keep both people and animals safer; certainly, more education and early intervention around the root causes of aggressive behavior in dogs can lead to happier, better behaved dogs, and can help prevent attacks on innocent victims.

Thank you again for your interest in animal care and safety.

Sincerely,

Larry Phillips, Councilmember
Metropolitan King County Council, District Four
King County Courthouse
516 Third Avenue, Room 1200
Seattle, WA 98104-3272
206.296.1004
larry.phillips@kingcounty.gov

For more information: http://www.kingcounty.gov/phillips

Sneak Peek at the Spring Issue! Arrives April 7!

Here is a sneak peek at the Spring 2009 issue of CityDog Magazine, arriving from the printer on April 7. Some exciting features include: a weekend getaway to the newly dog friendly Salish Lodge, eco- and animal-friendly spring cleaning tips, top 10 canine-friendly campgrounds in the West, an expose on the recent puppy mill raids in Washington, and much more! This might just be our favorite issue yet!

CityDog subscribers, watch for it to arrive in the mail soon!

If you don't yet subscribe, click here to subscribe today!

Follow CityDog on Twitter!

CityDog Magazine is on Twitter! Be sure to follow us @citydogmagazine!

Seattle Dog Show this weekend!

Come one! Come all! This weekend is the Seattle Kennel Club Dog Show! Come and be a part of one of the Northwest's greatest traditions. The Seattle Kennel Club Dog Show is in its 71st year with over 2,000 dogs competing for Best in Show. Join over 13,000 canine enthusiasts and root for your favorite dog over the two day event. And, come visit CityDog Magazine at booth #112.

Where: Qwest Field Event Center, next to Safeco Field
When: March 7 & 8, 2009, 7am (ouch) to 6pm

For more details, visit seattledogshow.org.

A Message from the ASPCA

Washington State Senate Bill 5651 is humane legislation that will help dogs in local puppy mills by setting a cap on the number of intact dogs over the age of six months who may be kept by commercial dog breeders.

Because this important bill acknowledges that current Washington state laws are inadequate regarding the care and husbandry of dogs in large-scale breeding facilities, it will also establish basic standards of humane care for these dogs—including minimum requirements for cage size and exercise. If SB 5651 is passed, it will be difficult for Washington’s worst puppy mills to stay in business.

What You Can Do
Please visit the ASPCA Advocacy Center online to personalize and send a letter to your state senator, urging him or her to support SB 5651.

Read about the recent Washington puppy mill raids (with close to 600 dogs rescued) in the upcoming spring issue of CityDog Magazine!

Subscribe today!

Another CityDog Top 10!

Dog friendly ski resorts...there's still time! Check out our top 10 favorite dog friendly ski resorts here.

Top 10 Ultimutt Wineries in the West

With spring right around the corner, it's time to start planning some road trips with your pooch. If exploring the Washington, Oregon and/or California wine country is at the top of your list, we've come up with our top 10 favorite wineries to help you on your way!

And, speaking of road trips, CityDog Magazine is compiling all of our Top 10's, weekend getaways, travel tips, deluxe digs and more into a guide book for dog lovers called CityDog Destinations Northwest. Essentially, it's a best of the Northwest for traveling with your dog. Look for it this summer!

In the meantime, subscribe to CityDog Magazine today!

Woof!
Brandie Ahlgren, founder & editor
CityDog Magazine

P.S. Become a fan of CityDog on Facebook and be sure to follow us on Twitter at citydogmagazine!

We're adding new content to the CityDog website!

Over the next couple of weeks, we are adding tons of new content to the website! For a sneak peek, check out CityDog Magazine's Top 10 Bow-wow Worthy Beaches here!

Citizen Lobbyists Rally at Capitol Urging Lawmakers to Pass Slate of Animal Protection Laws

Dozens of citizens from across the Evergreen State will descend on the state capitol in Olympia and meet with their lawmakers today to urge them to pass a series of animal protections bills before them this session. The citizen lobbyists are participating in Humane Lobby Day, which is organized by The Humane Society of the United States, with participation from local shelters, rescues, and animal groups from across Washington state.

The animal protection bills before the legislature in 2009 are:

• SB 5651/HB 1936 would crack down on the worst abuses at “puppy mills” by barring the possession of more than 25 breeding dogs at one time. It also establishes minimum care standards for dogs at breeding facilities.
• SB 5329/HB 1406 establishes a spay/neuter assistance program for feral cats as well as dogs and cats of low income individuals.
• SB 5402/HB 1968 prevents people convicted of animal cruelty, in cases where the animal died or endured substantial pain or undue suffering, from owning similar animals in the future.

The HSUS is also working to defeat legislation that would essentially repeal the state’s ban on steel-jawed leghold traps that was overwhelmingly passed by Washington voters. HB 1115/SB 5389 would overturn I-713, the citizen’s initiative approved in 2000 by a 10-point margin, which protects Washington’s pets and wildlife from cruel and indiscriminate trapping for recreation and commerce in fur.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for citizens who care about animal protection to make their voices heard, and a great way for them to participate in the lawmaking process,” said Dan Paul, Washington state director for The Humane Society of the United States. “The support of local advocates is crucial to our efforts to improve the lives of animals in Washington, and prevent lawmakers from rolling back the will of the people.”

Last year, state legislatures across the country passed 93 new laws for animals. The HSUS works with animal advocates and state legislators across the country to enact laws protecting animals from cruelty, combating animal fighting, halting wildlife abuse, and more.

Click here to find your legislator and let them know how you would like them to vote on the above legislation.

We Rocked the House!

It was a full house at the third annual CityDog Puppy Love MuttMixer! The W Hotel was packed with hundreds of pooches and their peeps...plus The Travel Channel was there to film the festivities including our first ever "mutt-rimony" (er, doggie wedding). Q13 Fox News even showed up! We'll have pictures posted soon, or if you have snapshots from the party you'd like to share, feel free to email them to us at info@citydogmagazine.com!

And, thank you to everyone for your donations to the Everett Animal Shelter. Your generosity will go toward helping the hundreds of dogs rescued from puppy mills.

Woof!
CityDog Magazine

CityDog Magazine's 21st Birthday Pawty!

It was quite the mutt mixer at CityDog's 21st (in dog years, that is) birthday party at the W Hotel Seattle! Check out this little video from Crescent Moon Studio and see for yourself!

Vote Yes!

Public survey: Should continuous dog chaining be restricted in King County? Responses will be presented to council with report findings

King County residents are invited to share their opinions about a proposed dog tethering ordinance by taking a King County Animal Care and Control survey. The survey will be accessible for one week in the right sidebar at www.kingcounty.gov/pets, until February 13, 2009. Responses will be given to the King County Council as part of a feasibility study of a potential ordinance restricting continuous dog chaining in King County.

King County’s animal cruelty investigations program has increased the number of cases sent to prosecutors by more then 300 percent in the last two years. The County is building a model animal care and control program that focuses on saving lives through proactive licensing education and enforcement, enhanced pet adoption programs, and a stronger veterinary medical program.

For more information about King County Animal Care and Control’s services or to learn about volunteer opportunities at the shelter, call 206-296-PETS (7387) or visit www.kingcounty.gov/pets.

West Seattle Art Walk is Going to the Dogs

The Kenney is going to the dogs as part of the West Seattle Art Walk. You and your well-behaved canine are invited to visit this West Seattle landmark to view works by renowned Seattle pet photographer Bev Sparks, West Seattle pet photographer Jenifer Flynn, and Kenney resident artist Ann Bowden.

WHERE
The Kenney, 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW, West Seattle

WHEN
Thursday, February 12, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

WHY
Kick off your pre-Valentine's Day festivities with great art, great food and great wine -- and the four-legged love of your life!

Above photo by Seattle pet photographer Bev Sparks.

3rd Annual CityDog Puppy Love MuttMixer!

WHO

CityDog Magazine, you and the furry, four-legged love of your life.

WHAT

Join CityDog Magazine and fellow dog lovers at the swanky W Hotel Seattle to mix and mingle, sip cocktails and swap doggy tails. Are you single? Even better! Puppy love will be in the air, so who knows...you might just meet that special two-legged someone to add to your pack.

We have a doggie wedding planned, pawdicures and special guests from The Travel Channel who will be there to film the festivities for an upcoming show!

Photographer extraordinaire J. Nichole Smith of Dane + Dane Studios will also be on hand to snap portraits of your furry friend (available for purchase).

WHEN

Wednesday, February 11, 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM

WHERE

W Seattle, Living Room

1112 4th Avenue

Seattle, WA 98101

Click here for directions

WHY

Why for the love of dog, of course! The event is free, but we will be taking donations for the Everett Animal Shelter. Last month, the shelter took in 150 of the nearly 600 dogs rescued from Washington puppy mills, with several in need of serious medical attention.

RSVP

Please RSVP with the number of humans and number of canines attending to info@citydogmagazine.com. Thank you!

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!

Above photo by J. Nichole Smith, Dane + Dane Studios

Best-selling author Temple Grandin in Seattle tomorrow at Third Place Books

Best-selling author of Animals in Translation, Temple Grandin, will be in Seattle tomorrow to promote her new book Animals Make Us Human: Creating the Best Life for Animals.

WHERE:

Third Place Books

17171 Bothell Way NE,

Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

WHEN:

Friday, Jan. 30 at 6:30 p.m.

Temple Grandin is inarguably the most accomplished and well-known adult with autism in the world. She has a Ph.D. in animal science and is a professor at Colorado State University. A passionate and effective animal advocate, Grandin spearheaded reform of the quality of life and humaneness of death for farm animals. In her new book Animals Make Us Human, Grandin shows us a revolutionary way to create the best and happiest life for our animals -- on their terms, not ours.

To read our full review of Animals Make Us Human, pick up a copy of the winter issue of CityDog Magazine -- on newsstands now -- or subscribe today!

Ms. Grandin will also be on KUOW's (94.9 FM) The Conversation tomorrow at 1 p.m.

CityDog in the West Seattle Blog

http://westseattleblog.com/blog/?p=13915

Fun event for the whole family

Hotel For Dogs at Regal Cinemas Auburn Stadium 17
January 31 • Auburn, Wash., 12pm–4pm. Regal Cinemas Auburn Stadium 17 and King County Animal Shelter will be celebrating the release of the new movie "Hotel For Dogs" this Saturday, January 31st. Stop by and adopt a new friend, become a foster parent, make a donation, or become a volunteer. For show times and tickets, click here.

For more events including the upcoming CityDog Puppy Love Muttmixer on Feb. 11, click here!

Follow up to 60 Minutes story and inspiration to animal lovers

It's a ruff economy (pun intended). But, underneath this dark cloud of recession, sometimes there is a silver lining.

Last Sunday, I happened to be watching 60 Minutes. What caught my attention (and apparently Ellen DeGeneres') was a segment on Ernie Bjorkman, a popular Denver news anchor for more than 26 years, who was recently laid off as a result of a merger of two competing news stations.

Ernie decided to take on his true passion which was to work with animals in veterinary medicine. He dropped everything and went back to school to become a Vet Tech. Now that he's graduated, he's pursuing his dream -- with a substantial pay cut (and I mean substantial pay cut), but a significant increase in his overall happiness.

Ellen DeGeneres, co-owner of Halo Purely for Pets, was moved by Ernie’s story and asked him to be a guest on today’s broadcast of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. (I missed it, but maybe you caught it?)

Apparently, Halo Purely for Pets has decided to help a fellow pet lover out and has arranged for the veterinary clinic that hires Ernie to receive a year’s supply of Halo products. Ellen surprised Ernie with this exciting news on her show today.

I love a happy story and will keep you posted on the veterinary clinic that hires Ernie -- who is an inspiration to animal lovers everywhere!

Puppy Mills: A Scourge on Society

I know I’m preaching to the choir here, but I feel the need to ask this… After everything in the news about puppy mills, who in their right mind would buy a puppy from a pet store or even over the Internet? If you love dogs, the last place you should be shopping for one is in a pet store or online (with the exception of adoption sites like Petfinder.com, of course).

Near my hometown of Seattle, we’ve seen two, alleged puppy mills raided in the last month with nearly 600 dogs seized and now living at the Everett Animal Shelter or in foster homes. These dogs were rescued from deplorable conditions – sick, matted, covered in feces and urine, crammed into cages – one dog even needing an eye removed. Many have tumors or other physical abnormalities and several dead dogs were found on the properties.

I know this is hard to read, but I am outraged and sickened by this as well as discouraged that people continue to sell and buy dogs in pet stores – just perpetuating this scourge.

With that said, I am also encouraged by the outpouring of support and donations from the community – people reaching out to help these dogs – something I’m sure these poor animals have never experienced in their lives. Many area groomers have donated their time and skills. Dog food collection sites have been set up in various locations. And, legislation has been introduced on the state level to more tightly regulate breeders. In other words, there is hope.

But still, many of the dogs seized are/were pregnant so litters of puppies are being born at the shelter plus many of the animals need serious veterinary care. If you would like to donate dog food or money for medical expenses to the Everett Animal Shelter’s nonprofit agency, ARF (Animal Rescue Foundation), you may do so by calling 425-257-6000 or visiting the shelter in person at 2732 36th St., Everett, Wash. To learn more about ARF, visit www.everettarf.org/.

Thank you for letting me vent.

Brandie Ahlgren, founder
CityDog Magazine

Puppy Bowl Kicks Off February 1 at 3 p.m.

If your favorite team’s season went to the dogs this year (mine did...the Seattle Seahawks), Animal Planet has some new recruits that are ready for their chance to conquer the pigskin—or a chew toy—in PUPPY BOWL V.

The yearly canine competition is back as a new cast of pups takes the field for another year of dogged defense, puppy penalties and fido first downs. The action takes place on the grand gridiron of Animal Planet Stadium, where an all-star, all- “adoptable” lineup of rambunctious pups is ready to compete in the ultimate puppy showdown.

To kick start this year’s sports extravaganza is “Pepper the Parrot,” singing a unique rendition of the National Anthem. This year, every puppy featured in PUPPY BOWL V is recruited from a local shelter, so these pooches are free agents looking for a good home.

Plus, while the big guys are listening to “The Boss” at halftime, PUPPY BOWL has once again enlisted the help of some frisky kittens for an all-new edition of the KITTY HALF-TIME SHOW. Make your fantasy picks now and come online during the big game to vote for MVP (Most Valuable Puppy).

PUPPY BOWL V premieres on Animal Planet, Sunday, February 1, from 3-5 PM (ET/PT).

Website Update

Hi again - The CityDog website is working like a charm - however, we have a temporary subscription page to get us through the weekend. Don't worry, it's a secure page, however we can only process one year subscriptions. By Tuesday of next week, you will have the choice of subscribing for one or two years.

Again, thank you for your patience!

Brandie Ahlgren, founder
CityDog Magazine

Website Currently Under Construction

Hi all - Just a quick note to say CityDog is switching website servers today and the site was down for a bit this morning. Currently the subscription page is down, but all other pages are loaded and seem to be working fine. As for the subscription page, we are working to fix the problem.

We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience.

Woof!
Brandie Ahlgren, founder
CityDog Magazine

ASPCA News Alert: Peanut Butter Recall

January 23, 2009 -- In light of last week’s FDA recall, which traced sources of Salmonella contamination to a plant owned by Peanut Corporation of America, the ASPCA is advising pet parents to temporarily discontinue the use of peanut butter products.

A popular treat for dogs, peanut butter is commonly stuffed into chewable activity toys. While healthy adult companion dogs are relatively resistant to Salmonella bacteria, pets with health issues, young puppies and older pooches with compromised immune systems may be at greater risk. “Pet parents should wash their hands after handling any potentially contaminated food and immediately consult with a veterinarian if any symptoms are noticed in their pets,” says the ASPCA’s Dr. Steven Hansen, Senior Vice President, Animal Health Services. Signs to watch out for in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy and drooling or panting. Cats may develop a high fever with vague, non-specific clinical signs.

In addition, pet parents handling a contaminated peanut butter product may also develop food poisoning. “Salmonella can be passed between humans and pets,” says Dr. Louise Murray, ASPCA Director of Medicine. “Adult cats are highly resistant, and most dogs infected with the bacterium appear normal, but may pass Salmonella in their feces, which can infect people or other pets. Therefore it’s essential that pet parents take steps to protect both themselves and their animal companions from infection."

For a complete list of recalled products, please visit the FDA online. Do check often, as the list is regularly udpated. If you suspect that your pet may have ingested or has become sick after ingesting a recalled product, please contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Why you should never, ever buy a puppy from a pet store

By KOMO 4 News Staff

GOLD BAR, Wash. - Officers rescued 155 dogs and several other animals found living under ghastly conditions in a puppy mill operation so horrific that it shocked even veteran animal control officers, officials said. A citizen's tip led officials to the residence, in the 43000 block of May Creek Rd in Gold Bar.

After obtaining a search warrant, deputies and officers raided the property, where they found many of the dogs stuffed inside small crates and pens overflowing with urine and feces, investigators said. Several dead puppies also were found in a freezer, and two dead dogs were found elsewhere on the premises. Eighty-seven of the dogs were living in a converted attic.

Adult dogs and puppies were found living in crates and small pens filled with large accumulations of feces and heavily soiled shavings, said Vicki Lubrin of Snohomish County Animal Control Services.

Officers said the odor from the feces and urine was so overpowering it could be detected well outside the residence. A large commercial dumpster stood in the yard overflowing with dog waste.

Medications and used syringes, used to treat sick animals, were found scattered in front of pens and in a refrigerator.

Most of the dogs were heavily matted, covered with their own feces and saturated with urine. Investigators said many dogs had open sores on various parts of their bodies and all were covered with fleas. Several dogs had tumors and other abnormal body conditions.

Officers found a variety of small breed dogs: Yorkshire terriers, rat terriers, West Highland terriers, Chinese crested, pugs, dachshunds, Pekingese and mixed breeds sold as "designer dogs."

Also found were six large dogs - a Labrador and Doberman tightly squeezed together in one crate, a Rottweiler, a mastiff and two boxers.

Altogether, officials found 155 dogs, four cats and three parrots - all living in inhumane conditions.

"Even the most experienced officers on site were astounded by the size of this puppy mill operation and the filthy conditions in which the dogs were kept," Lubrin said in a statement.

She said a detailed breeding plan was found posted on a wall inside the residence.

Lubrin said puppy mill puppies are often sold to unsuspecting buyers with hereditary defects, chronic illnesses and disease. The females are bred over and over again, producing litter after litter of puppies until they either die or can no longer breed and are disposed of.

The facility was operating in violation of Snohomish County commercial kennel regulations, Lubrin said.

All of the animals were removed for care and feeding and a veterinary medical assessment. The dogs, cats and birds are being cared for at the Everett Animal Shelter.

The final disposition of the animals is not known at this time, Lubrin said. The investigation continues and will be referred to the Snohomish County Prosecutor’s Office for review. No arrests have been made at this time.

The rescue operation was a joint effort by Snohomish County Animal Control Services and Snohomish County sheriff’s deputies on Friday night.

Lubrin said the cost of seizing and treating the animals rescued from these conditions severely impacts the budgets of all responding agencies.

She said anyone wishing to donate dog food or money for medical expenses to the Everett Animal Shelter’s nonprofit agency, ARF (Animal Rescue Foundation), may do so by calling 425-257-6000 or coming to the shelter in person at 2732 36th St., Everett.

If you are able to assist in any way, please visit www.everettarf.org/.

Photo courtesty of KOMO 4 News.

Owner of dog shot in Seattle needs your help

By Ray Lane & KOMO Staff
Watch the story

SEATTLE -- Bondo has enjoyed better days.His owner, Paul Rosa, said the 8-year old Shepherd mix was nearly killed in the backyard of his Rainier Valley home around 12:30 a.m. Monday when someone pointed a gun through the fence and fired a single shot into the dog's chest.

"To hurt an innocent animal like that -- it's ridiculous," said Rosa. "It's stupid."

Rosa wondered how such a thing could happen. Bondo's bark could have startled the person, who then may have reached for a weapon instead of just walking along. Police have been called, but investigators said there isn't much they can do.

Whatever the case, an expensive surgery is needed to get the dog back on his feet.

X-rays show the bullet shattered into five pieces, splitting the bone in the dog's right front leg. On Tuesday a metal rod will be put into one of Bongo's legs to help repair the damage.

"It's a life. What am I supposed to do?" Rosa said. "I wish it wouldn't have happened. I wish that person had better judgment. He obviously didn't, and I'm stuck where I'm at."

Rosa said the prognosis is good for Bondo's recovery, but the procedure could cost more than $4,000 -- a hefty amount for a painter who has little work these days.

"I haven't worked in a month and a half. I paid my child support last month and I'm owing two months' rent right here," he said.

Family and friends are willing to help with donations, but Rosa doesn't know if it'll be enough.

"More than anything, I just want my dog healthy. I just want him back the way he was. Karma will get those people," Rosa said.

Rosa said he'll need to make $1,800 payment at the time of Bongo's surgery. Anyone who'd like to help pay for Bongo's medical costs can e-mail Rosa.

Photo courtesy of KOMO 4 News.

Sneak Peek: CityDog Winter Issue

Here is a sneak peek at the winter issue of CityDog Magazine, arriving hot-off-the-press next week! The cover features Cohen, our cover dog model search winner! All 450+ cover dog contestants are also featured in this issue! Thanks to Cohen and the other contestants for helping us raise nearly $5,000 for animals!

To subscribe to CityDog Magazine, click here.

Seattle Humane Society Prepared to Help Flood Victims

The Seattle Humane Society has temporary shelter ready to provide safety and care for companion animals for families evacuating due to rising waters from flooding.

Seattle Humane Society (for Seattle / King County)

Phone: (425) 641-0080

Located near the intersection of I90 and I405 at 13212 Eastgate Way, Bellevue, WA 98005.

For Seattle frequenters of the Westcrest dog park, you probably know park steward Steve and his bassets Buddy and Barkley. I met Steve years ago (pre-CityDog) and ever since he's been a faithful dog park advocate and volunteer for the Coalition for Off Leash Areas (COLA) -- an organization that CityDog strongly supports.

Well, it seems Steve, Buddy and Barkley have become quite the celebs with their Bassets for Obama video -- even across the pond! A group of basset owners in England thought Steve looked a little like Marlon Brando in his video and whipped this up for him.

"Dogs is a dirty business."

(Okay, so the Marlon Brando line in the Godfather is "Drugs is a dirty business," but, I couldn't resist!)

150 Marleys

Hollywood filmmakers used 22 yellow Labradors to portray the star of “Marley & Me” in the current blockbuster movie. But that number pales in comparison to the more than 150 Marleys available this weekend at the Oregon Humane Society.

OHS is changing the name of every dog, cat, rabbit and hamster at the Portland shelter to “Marley” this weekend in honor of the record-setting movie. And to help as many people as possible experience the joy of pet ownership, OHS is reducing all adoption fees by 20% this Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

OHS expects to have about two-dozen Labrador mixed-breed dogs at the shelter, along with dozens of other dogs, cats, rabbits and rodents, each one named Marley.

Visitors to the shelter, which features special “get acquainted” rooms for meeting a pet, may want to spend time with the following Marleys:

• Marley Chico is a handsome five-year-old who, unlike his namesake, does not require high maintenance. This Siberian husky mix is loving and polite, crate-trained and housebroken, and loves to snuggle. He does need medication as he occasionally suffers from seizures. But don't let that stop you from feeling the love for this sweet dog.



• Marley Princess Buttercup is a three-year-old tabby who enjoys the finer things in life such as being waited on and adored. Princess Buttercup is an outgoing, adventurous lady who will gladly show off her fearlessness and make you fall in lover with her.



• Marley Mia is a four-year-old American rabbit who has lived previously with other bunnies, dogs and children. She especially enjoys sharing fresh veggies wither her sister Marley Marci. Marley Mia and Marley Marci need to go home with the same owner--a double dose of rabbit love.

Every OHS adoption comes with a great list of "extras" at no charge. Each pet is spayed or neutered; comes with an identification microchip, collar and tag; has received a medical examination and an initial round of vaccinations; and comes with a free month of health insurance and a free first visit to a veterinarian. OHS is always available to answer pet-related questions and help families find the perfect match.

What: 20 percent discount on every pet named Marley (which is every pet at OHS!)

Where: OHS Shelter, 1067 NE Columbia Blvd., Portland, OR 97211

When: Friday, Jan. 9 through Sunday, Jan. 11. Doors open at 10 am every day; adoption office closes at 8:30 pm on Friday and Saturday, 6:30 pm on Sunday.

Contact: OHS, (503) 285-7722; oregonhumane.org

Start the New Year with a new furry, four-legged family member to warm your heart and home

The holiday adoption celebration at the Seattle Humane Society will continue through Sunday. Adoption fees are being waived on all cats 1-year and older. Animal lovers can also adopt a bunny, guinea pig or other critter for free! This is Seattle Humane's holiday gift to the community. What better way to ring in the new year than with a pet from the Seattle Humane Society!

Visit the pets at the shelter at the junction of I-405 and I-90 in Bellevue.

The Seattle Humane Society has been offering free adult cat adoptions since the beginning of December as its holiday gift to the community. More than 290 adopters took advantage of that gift, making it a record month for adoptions. The promotion was scheduled to end on Dec. 31, but was so successful that the shelter is running it through this weekend and opening it up to include other small animals.

The Seattle Humane Society encourages animal lovers to warm their homes this season with a new furry family member who will add love all year long! To see the pets online, go to http://www.seattlehumane.org/.

The Seattle Humane Society is open seven days a week from noon until 6 p.m. and is located on Eastgate Way at the junction of I-405 and I-90 in Bellevue.

Meow!

One last suggestion for a dog-friendly place to rest your pretty head this New Year's Eve

The W Hotel Seattle welcomes you and your furry friend to say (or woof) goodbye to 2008 and hello to 2009! Guests who stay for the W Seattle's New Year's Eve package on December 31 will receive a 2009 calendar, a bottle of bubbly, W disposable camera, Bliss spa amenities, and perhaps most importantly...a 2 p.m. late check out. The New Year's Eve package starts at $265.

In addition, chef Adam Stevenson will prepare a multi-course New Year's Eve dinner highlighting a sumptuous selection of first, main and dessert offerings. Start with beef tenderloin bresaola, followed by Washington stuffed quail and finish with a baked apple tart -- your pooch will certainly enjoy a doggie bag if anything is left over! Stevenson's three-course dinner is $85 per person. After dinner, enjoy cocktails and music in the W Bar, with house soundman DjMB and friends, beginning at 9 p.m. until 1 a.m.

Or, stay in, pop that bottle of bubbly and relax with your four-legged pal. Amenities for him include custom W pet bed, food and water bowl with floor mat, pet-in-room door sign, and special treat at turndown.

W Hotel Seattle

1112 4th Avenue, Seattle

Reservations: 877-822-0000

W photo by J. Nichole Smith, Dane + Dane Studios.

How will you be spending this New Year's Eve with your four-legged pal? Let us know!

Enjoy New Year's on the edge with your four-legged friend at the Edgewater Hotel

If you're like me and waited until the last minute to make your New Year's Eve plans, here is one more idea...

The dog-friendly Edgewater Hotel, located along Seattle's waterfront, has a few guest rooms still available, starting at $279. While they do not have the staff to doggie sit during the festivities, why not avoid the crowds, order room service, curl up with your four-legged friend and watch the fireworks display from the comfort of your own room?! The hotel's city-side rooms have great views of downtown Seattle and the Space Needle for a front row show!

Then, start the New Year with an elegant brunch complete with ice carvings and beautifully composed classic fare at Six Seven. Savor the restaurant's new brunch menu featuring items such as dungeness crab frittata, eggs benedict with lemon-scented hollandaise, and smoked salmon omelets. Yum!

Edgewater photo by Emily Rieman, Best Friend Photography.

Ring in the New Year with a champagne toast at Norm's Eatery & Ale House!

Does your pooch like to party? Seriously, if your dog is a social butterfly and does well in large, noisy, drunken crowds, then head over to Norm's Eatery & Ale House in Fremont tomorrow for the festivities with your four-legged friend and join fellow two-legged revelers in a champagne toast to ring in the New Year!

Photo of Norm's by Seattle photographer Daimian Lix.

Where to stay and play this New Year's Eve in downtown Seattle

If your New Year's Eve party plans include downtown Seattle and you want to bring along your four-legged friend for the festivities, here are a few Fido-friendly places to stay while you play.

Hotel Vintage Park

1100 Fifth Avenue

Seattle, WA 98101
Reservations: 800.853.3914

Hotel: 206.624.8000

The pet-friendly Hotel Vintage Park has rooms available this New Year's Eve, with rates starting at $199. At the "Park," each pooch is greeted with organic Buddy Biscuits and hotel staff will watch your pal while you paint the town.

The Park's sister-property, Hotel Monaco (1101 Fourth Avenue Seattle, 206.621.1770), is also dog friendly, with rooms still available on New Year's Eve. It's a little pricier, starting around $260, but in-room amenities for you and your furry friend are worth the hefty price tag.

If you ring in the New Year a little too heartily, the Hotel Monaco invites you to visit Sazerac for a little hair of the dog, anytime between 8 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on January 1, to enjoy their Bloody Mary Bar (yum). Leave your pooch with the staff at the Vintage Park or bring him along! While dogs are not allowed in Sazerac, you can enjoy your libation in the Monaco's lobby area with your lovable Lab.

We have a couple of other feelers out there for more dog-friendly places to stay and play for New Year's Eve, so check back!

Happy New Year from all of us at Seattle's own CityDog Magazine!

Above photo of Hotel Monaco by J. Nichole Smith, Dane + Dane Studios.

Marley & Me Top Dog at the Box Office

Marley & Me, which opened Christmas Day, is top dog at the box office. I admit, I have yet to see the movie, but like millions of readers, I loved the book by best selling author John Grogan.

As the story goes, newly married John and his wife Jenny are both animal lovers, and they decide to add a dog to their home before they have children. The adorable Labrador Retriever puppy rapidly grows into a strong adult, and despite their efforts at dog training, Marley is a naughty (but lovable) dog and the high jinxes ensue.

While Marley & Me is an enduring tale, as with a lot of hit movies featuring dogs (i.e., 101 Dalmatians, Beverly Hills Chihuahua), people tend to fall in love with the breed as depicted on screen and want one of their own.

If you are tempted to add a Labrador Retriever to your family, consider adopting one of the 19,880 pure bred and Lab mixes on Petfinder.com. Petfinder also emailed us some helpful tips to avoid your own “Marley” challenges:

• Play with your dog! Exercising your dog is important but making time to play with your dog is vital to developing and maintaining a good relationship with him. Actively playing with your dog will keep him fit both physically and mentally.

• Make time to train. Every moment that you spend with your dog is an opportunity to teach him something – good or bad. If you still think you don’t have the time to work with your dog just make meal time training time. Have him earn his kibble a handful at a time.

• Keep your training sessions short. Training shouldn’t take hours a day – 2 five minute sessions or 5 two minute sessions a day is ideal for most behaviors.

• Use variety. When you are working with your dog make sure that you use a variety of people, situations and locations. By doing this your dog will learn faster and you will give him a better understanding of what you are asking him to do.

• Manage your dog. Dogs are dogs – not little furry people. Preventing them from getting into trouble is the best way to manage unwanted behaviors. Dogs do lots of things that people tend not to like, such as getting into the garbage, chewing up items we think are valuable and jumping up to say hello.

Woof!

Brandie Ahlgren, founder

CityDog Magazine

If you've seen Marley & Me, tell us what you think about the movie!

Scout and her snow goatee wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy new year!

More fun photos from the fourth annual CityDog Yappy Howlidays Party!

I love the holiday ribbons decorating his wheels! Very festive!

To view all of the photos from the CityDog Yappy Howlidays Party, click here.

Photos by John Martinotti, JM Photo Works.

The weather outside was frightful, but the CityDog Yappy Howlidays Party was quite delightful!

Elise Vincentini, owner of Downtown Dog Lounge, and Brandie Ahlgren, publisher of CityDog Magazine, enjoying some holiday cheer at the W Hotel Seattle.

Photos by John Martinotti, JM Photo Works.

Last chance to receive CityDog in time to slip under the Christmas tree!

The weather outside may be frightful, but a gift subscription to CityDog is quite delightful. We pack each issue with where to stay and where to play with your dog in the West. And, if you order your subscription by Saturday, we'll get it to you in plenty of time to sneak under the tree for that special dog lover in your life. We'll also include a cool canine gift card with your own personal greeting. Give the gift that has tails wagging or treat yourself...click HERE to subscribe today!

Looking for a last minute gift to give that dog lover in your life? The 2009 CityDogs Calendar will have tails wagging 365 days of the year! Each day is a new dog's smiling face and each month features the beautiful photography of Seattle pet photographer J. Nichole Smith. If you love dogs or know someone who loves dogs, then you will love this calendar! $19.99 plus tax/S&H

Click HERE to order today and we'll include the holiday issue of CityDog for FREE!

For more gift ideas for under $20, click here.

Happy holidays from all of us at CityDog Magazine! Looking ahead to the new year, it's never too early to mark your social calendar and we invite you to do just that...mark your calendar for the CityDog Puppy Love MuttMixer on Wednesday, February 11 at the swanky and dog friendly W Hotel Seattle.

Woof!
Brandie Ahlgren, founder
CityDog Magazine

Pasado's Safe Haven is on call to help

With freezing temperatures in the Northwest, Pasado's Safe Haven is coming to the rescue of animals, providing blankets, shelter, food and more. Many of you brought donations to the CityDog Yappy Howlidays Party last week, but if you would like to donate more, Pasado's needs horse blankets size 81 and above, dog and cat shelters, beds and dog coats plus pet food and flea treatment (very important as freezing animals will die if infested with parasites).

TIPS TO KEEP ANIMALS SAFE

• Feed your animal more (they need extra energy to combat the cold)
• Replenish fresh water (assure it’s not frozen)
• De-flea pets; de-lice farm animals as they will die from anemia in the cold temperatures
• Provide shelter from the cold against North and East winds
• If low-income, call Pasado’s Safe Haven and they’ll help! 360-793-9393

Pasado’s Safe Haven also needs more volunteers to help distribute items. Please go to www.pasadosafehaven.org to volunteer or to donate a dog house or other needed items.

Thank you!

Thanks everyone for attending the CityDog Yappy Howlidays Party!

Thank you to everyone who turned out lastnight for the fourth annual CityDog Yappy Howlidays Party at the W Hotel Seattle. We packed 'em in, with about 150 people and 80 or so dogs in attendance! And, thank you to those who brought donations for Pasado's Safe Haven. Your generous gift(s) will go a long way to helping the poor and homeless care for their pets during the holiday season.

Party pictures to come soon! And, it's never too early to mark your calendar for the next CityDog event...

What: CityDog Puppy Love MuttMixer
Where: W Hotel Seattle
When: Wednesday, February 11, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Woof!
Brandie Ahlgren
CityDog Magazine

Photo by John Martinotti

The fight against puppy mills goes on

Due to the efforts of Best Friends Animal Society and its "Puppy-Store-Free L.A." campaign, the posh Beverly Center in Los Angeles has indicated their intent to sever their relationship with Pet Love, a pet store that has sold thousands of animals from irresponsible breeders and puppy mills for 15 years.

The impending closure of a high end pet store in Los Angeles is a signal to the rest of the nation that Los Angeles consumers are becoming aware of the evils of puppy mills and how they fuel the pet overpopulation problem in the United States.

Pet Love was the subject of an undercover investigation that revealed illegal and improper usage of medication on the puppies for sale in the store, and was cited by Los Angeles Animal Control for similar violations.

Hundreds of Beverly Center patrons and employees have signed a petition expressing their concerns about Pet Love's practices of selling sick dogs. Many of these died within a week after purchase. There have been complaints and lawsuits against the store as a result of the store's responses to those incidences.

Best Friends tried to convince the owners of Pet Love to convert to a humane business model by providing the public with rescued animals for adoption. But they refused. Best Friends also offered to help in the transition, including the acquisition of animals. Not only did the Pet Love owners turn this down, they threatened Best Friends with litigation.

Bye bye Pet Love. Keep up the good work Best Friends!

2009 CityDogs Calendar Sneak Peek: December

Meet Lola, Oscar, Roxy and Josie, our calendar dogs for the month of December. These four pooches hosted a holiday party at their pad, complete with canine truffles from Petit Four Legs.

That's it for the calendar sneak peeks! To order your 2009 CityDogs Calendar, featuring close to 500 Seattle area dogs, click here.

Happy howlidays!
Brandie Ahlgren, founder & editor
CityDog Magazine

2009 CityDogs Calendar Sneak Peek: November

Meet Fergie, our gorgeous calendar girl for the month of November. Fergie's mom happens to be Seattle pet photographer Jamie Pflughoeft with Cowbelly Pet Photography.

Be sure to order your calendars soon! We want to be sure to get them to you in plenty of time for the holidays!

Five thrifty gifts for Fido that will have tails wagging

These days, it seems everyone needs to penny-pinch a little, but in the spirit of the holidays, we've found some great gifts for your hound that won't break the bank. Here are some ideas for under $20 that will have tails wagging at your house this holiday season!

Mom & Pup Bakery, $9.99. Mom & Pup Bakery specializes in gourmet soft dog treats that are easy to eat and yummy for your dog's tummy. Treats are perfect for small dogs, older dogs, and any dog that simply loves a scrumptious snack. Each 8oz package comes in a variety of lip-smacking flavors! momandpupbakery.com

Poochie Bells, $16.50. We've all seen it: that urgent look our pooch gives us when it's REALLY time to go! Or, worse - an accident when we haven't made it to the door in time. Now you can train the family pooch to "ring" when it's time to go outside with its very own designer doggie doorbell. poochiebells.com.

Doggie Tricks & Treats, $9.95. Teach your old (or not-so-old) dog new tricks with the Hat Box Series Doggie Tricks & Treats. You'll find 25 recipe cards with delicious, nutritionally-sound treats plus three, tail-waggingly cool biscuit cutters in shapes like a fire hydrant, a heart and a bone. Once you have your treats, it's time for some tricks. Also included is a cute, little guidebook with various tricks for Fido to work for his treats. amazon.com

A Very Marley Christmas by John Grogan, $10.95. I don't know about you, but I'm convinced my dogs enjoy being read to - especially, if it's a dog tail (er, tale). This follow-up to the bestseller, Marley & Me, delivers a heartfelt holiday story with many hilarious Marley mishaps along the way. amazon.com

Good Clean Dog, $8 and up. Dogs are good. Good clean dogs are even better. Good Clean Dog, based in Burien, Wash., has created a line of yummy products to keep your good dog clean. The liquid shampoo is made with emollient oils to clean your dog's coat and moisturize skin. The conditioner softens, smoothes and detangles fur with pure oils of lemongrass and bay leaf to sweetly scent your pooch. In fine pet stores or goodcleandog.com.

CityDog Yappy Howlidays Pawty less than one week away!

Next Wednesday, the W Hotel will be rolling out the red carpet for Seattle area dog lovers and their holiday hounds! It's the much-anticipated fourth annual CityDog Yappy Howlidays Pawty and you and four-legged friend are invited to join us to mix and mingle, enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and if you're in the spirit, get a holiday portrait with Seattle pet photographer J. Nichole Smith of Dane + Dane Studios.

Where: W Hotel Seattle, 1112 4th Street, Seattle
When: Wednesday, December 10, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

For more information, visit yappyhowlidays.com and to RSVP, email us with the number of humans and number of canines that will be attending at info@citydogmagazine.com.

Woof!
Brandie Ahlgren, founder & editor
CityDog Magazine

2009 CityDogs Calendar Sneak Peek: October

Meet Branimir, our calendar dog for the month of October. Branimir is the pride and joy of Bill and Nicki Walters, founders of Seattle's own Pooper Trooper. You can meet Branimir at next week's CityDog Yappy Howlidays Party, December 10th at the swanky W Hotel Seattle. For more details, click here.

Click here to purchase your 2009 CityDogs Calendar today! We are donating $1 for every calendar sold to Reading With Rover, a non-profit children's literacy program involving kids, dogs and reading! As a magazine, we love supporting future readers! Woof!

Holiday pet gifts are a festive way to show your critters how much they mean to you

If you're making your list and checking it twice, don't forget the sometimes naughty, but always nice, four-legged members of your family. You might think that purchasing a gift for a pet is a bit extravagant these days, but there are plenty of affordable, practical presents to put under the tree for your pug or Persian. And, if you have a few animal lovers on your list -- and who doesn't? -- then you've come to the right place. We've discovered some great gift ideas for them, too.

To read more, click here.

2009 CityDogs Calendar Sneak Peek: September

Meet our calendar dog for the month of September, Railey, a gorgeous boxer and best friend to store proprietor Mark Smith of Railey's Leash & Treat, located in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood.