The Giant Hotline -- Volume: IX, No. 4 (May 2012) in PDF format

The Giant Hotline
Volume IX, Issue No. 4
It’s Summertime
-Jan Young
Well, the heat is on and, at least in Oklahoma, we
started the high temperatures in April.
Like Winter, the Summer brings unique problems and
issues for us to deal with regarding our dogs. We are all
aware that, even if the temperature is not terribly high, if
our jet black babies are in direct sun they can overheat
very quickly so I have included an article on dehydration
in this issue.
Believe it or not, our black dogs can even get
sunburned if exposed to the harsh sun for too long.
With such a mild winter, at least here in the South, the
leas and ticks are bound to be out in force this year and
with them come risks for many diseases including
heartworms. It is amazing how many people do not use
prophylaxis in their animals but it is so important to
protect our babies against these parasites. Once
infected, the treatment is so difficult on the dogs due to
restriction of activity and the drugs; it is not an
inexpensive undertaking either.
Tina Fields has also provided some great follow up
stories on several of the HTZ-Rescue dogs she has been
foster mom to and it is always heartwarming to hear
about happy endings.
We also welcome a new member to the Board of
Directors of the South Central Giant Schnauzer Club –
Jean Erath.
INDEX
being the only one to give food or treats.
don’t have
to be taboo either, if we are careful
President’s
column
2 Treats
about choices and total amounts.
Dehydration
in Dogs
7 Portion
modification
is another easy remedy or the Vet
may need to calculate the dog’s exact caloric needs
13 Parasites
based upon their medical status and/or conditions and
the dog
may require
special diet.
Valerie’s
Recipea Corner
18
Then there is the “E” word: Exercise is one activity
Things
Wedog
Learn
OurinDogs
19
that will
benefit
andfrom
owner
multiple ways including
weight loss, better muscle tone and time spent together
strengthening the natural bond between dogs and their
humans.
I have learned from this issue & hope you do also.
Jan Young, MDThe Giant Hotline 1
May 2012
Message from the
Editor
It is with a heavy heart and many
tears that I write this column today.
For those of you that were at
Southfork last Fall, you may remember
my Maggie, who was the oldest Giant
in attendance. On Mother’s Day last
year, I was blessed to get to adopt
Maggie when her family gave her
away after 11-1/2 years.
Maggie had the most beautiful
personality I have seen in a Giant and
as a certified Therapy Dog she was
the gentle darling of the residents at
whatever facility we visited. In the last
10 months of her life she got to give
and receive love in abundance that
she had missed out upon.
In January, I discovered a
recurrence of a previously removed
mammary tumor and she came
through repeat surgery like a trooper.
Unfortunately, a few weeks after that
she developed an ataxia we thought
was from degenerative arthritis in her
spine. Despite medication and laser
treatments the paralysis advanced.
She was the epitome of bravery, grace
and patience as I cleaned, diapered
and hand fed her. On March 17th, she
went quietly to sleep – forever.
She taught Sebastian to begin to trust
and she was certainly a blessing in my
and so many other’s lives.
We miss her terribly.
-Jan Young, MD
President’s Column
Not sure about the rest of you, but 2012 has certainly passed by in a hurry. It seems like
only yesterday that we were meeting at South Fork for Fun Day. I guess 2012 has passed so
quickly because Giant Rescue has kept me so busy. Starting the first week of January, I got a
call about a young boy who needed fostering. Max was a dear boy, and luckily, we found him a
great home about 15 miles from me. His story appears elsewhere in the newsletter along with a
great picture of Max and his new family. The following week, HT-Z sent Annie down from
Colorado – luckily we already had a home for her so I only kept her for a week. Annie was
adopted by the daughter of the couple who adopted Max – that’s called keeping it in the family.
It was good to get these two pups placed quickly because the following week, along came
Zen whose family was moving out of country and had to give him up. Zen was the typical 20month-old boy – all energy and no brain. Zen was quickly followed by Schmitty and then by
Bogart. Each of these boys has a tale all their own – so you will meet them elsewhere in the
newsletter. All in all, I had seven giants living in my house at one time, and I admit getting to
the point that I did not remember their names.
Thank goodness, Zen has gone to his forever home in the Great Northwest and Bogart
will be going to his new home this weekend. I will be keeping Schmitty for at least another 2
months, as he undergoes physical therapy.
So, it has been a wild 3 months!
During the time that I was fostering these great dogs, we were contacted about a Giant
who was being given up and was heartworm positive. Because of her youth, we decided we
would give her a chance. For some reason the fostering never occurred. I am hoping that the
family decided to keep her and get her the needed medication. However, the reason I am
bringing this situation up is that we did a crash course on heartworm treatment and follow-up
care. If there is anything we all can do for our dogs, it is to ensure they are on heartworm
prevention. I know some people say that they live in areas that have little issue with
heartworm, and so people choose not to do the prevention. However, after reading the
treatment for this horrible infestation, I can only say that if there is even a remote chance that
your dogs might come into contact with heartworm, keep them on prevention. (Note: I own no
stock in the company that manufactures heartworm prevention).
Shortly after South Fork, I received a call from one of our members expressing concern
with how officers are elected. Our by-laws state that members elect the Board of Directors that
in turn selects officers. I re-emphasized to the member that we were following by-laws.
However, if you as a member have a concern with any component of the bylaws, you are
certainly entitled to submit suggestions. If people want to volunteer to serve on a by-laws
committee to review and make suggested revisions, please let me know.
This same member also expressed concern with always holding our annual event in the
Dallas area. This has been done for two reasons: first, more members live in the Dallas/Fort
Worth area than in other parts of the catchment area and thus we have larger turnouts at our
The Giant Hotline 2
meetings when we hold them in Dallas/Fort Worth. Secondly, no other people/area of Texas
has expressed an interest in hosting the event. In fact, we tried having the last Spring Fling in
central Texas, and only 12 people attended. If there are people who would like to host the
October Fun Day, please get in touch with me as soon as possible. I know that the Dallas
volunteers would certainly be willing to take a break, as hosting the event is certainly time
consuming.
I want to say a big “welcome” to Jean Erath who has been elected to the Board of
Directors. There will be a short intro piece about Jean elsewhere in the newsletter. New people
on the board bring new ideas (and new people to do all those volunteer jobs). So, welcome,
Jean!
In closing my rambling president’s column, I would like to express sympathy to Dr. Jan
Young, newsletter editor, who recently lost her dear Maggie. For those of you who attended
South Fork, you probably remember Maggie, the giant who barked like a seal. Dr. Jan adopted
Maggie about a year ago. At that time, she knew that Maggie just had surgery for mammary
cancer and was a “Grande Dame” at the time of the adoption. However, Dr. Jan took this great
old gal who had never been out in society and in two weeks got a therapy dog title. I know the
time was too short, Jan, but your love and devotion for 10 months was the best of life for
Maggie. She will be awaiting you at the Rainbow Bridge.
Tina
My Maggie at Home
The Giant Hotline 3
I am thrilled to be part of this club! Having had dogs my whole life, I grew up with Miniature
Schnauzers and, as an adult, have had Miniatures, Shih Tzus and a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier.
Giants have been a major (and sometimes only) focus for the past 8 years of my life. I will give
credit to my husband for introducing me to the breed, but I fell in love quickly and passionately!
Currently I have 5 that live with us full time and co-own numerous Giants around the country. I
have been actively showing dogs for the past 9 years, obtaining multiple championships.
Breeding Giants under the kennel name of Tanglewood Giant Schnauzers, I have also fostered for
rescue, am a member of the Minneapolis Kennel Club and the GSCA.
Being passionate about diet I cook daily for my dogs, only supplementing with a high grade
commercial dog food.
I am looking forward to helping out in any way that I can and giving back to this breed that I love
so much!
Jean Erath pictured with BIS CH Tanglewood's Bad Reputation, "Jett"
The Giant Hotline 4
Kai Krapf very intent on his Mother’s Valentines present.
Photo by Pat Krapf.
Kai Krapf squirrel hunting in his
backyard.
(Photo by Pat Krapf.)
The Giant Hotline 5
Dehydration and Water Needs in Dogs
Dehydration is a lack of water in the body, and can cause serious complications for pets and
people alike. Water is essential to all living beings, including dogs, who depend on proper daily fluid
intake to maintain appropriate health. It makes up 80 percent of your dog’s body, and dissolves
natural and unnatural substances as well as serves as the root of all his biological processes,
including circulation, digestion and waste removal.
Dehydration occurs when fluid levels drop to less than normal. This is due to either reduced water
intake or increased fluid loss. Fluid loss can be due to overheating in hot weather or a bout of
vomiting or diarrhea, especially in puppies.
General symptoms of dehydration in dogs include sunken eyes, lethargy, loss of appetite, dry
mouth and depression. Dehydration may indicate a serious underlying problem. If you suspect that
your dog is dehydrated, take him to a veterinarian immediately. You may be able to detect
dehydration at home by gently lifting the skin on the back of your dog’s neck or between the shoulder
blades; Unless your dog is seriously overweight or very thin, it should immediately return to a normal
position. If he is lacking in fluids, the lifted skin may not quickly return to normal. Often, however, the
signs of dehydration are not obvious, and only a veterinarian can provide proper diagnosis and
treatment.
Dogs most at risk for dehydration are those who suffer from various illnesses such as kidney
disorders, cancer and infectious disease. Elderly dogs and pregnant or nursing dogs may be prone to
dehydration, as well as dogs with diabetes not under optimal control.
A veterinarian will administer intravenous or subcutaneous fluids, and run additional tests if
necessary, to determine the underlying cause of the condition.
To prevent dehydration, provide clean water at all times, and change it frequently to ensure
freshness. Also, don’t forget to wash your pet’s water bowl every day to prevent bacteria from
forming.
Monitor your dog’s water intake. Generally, a dog needs at least one ounce of water for each
pound of body weight per day. If your dog is not drinking an adequate amount of water, seek
veterinary advice. Monitoring water intake is especially important if he’s recovering from diarrhea,
vomiting or other illnesses and if they are left outside in summer heat.
Water bowls with a weighted bottom will prevent your dog from knocking it over and there are
automatic water bowls on the market for convenience.
Always bring extra water when you’re traveling or exercising with your dog.
If you notice your pet is drinking less than usual, check his mouth for sores or other foreign
objects, such as burrs or sticks.
Keep your toilet lid closed to interrupt your dog’s efforts to turn the bowl, which can be a source of
bacteria, into a water fountain. This can also be a source of poisoning if leave in appliances or
chemicals are used.
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Tanglewood's Oh Beautiful, "Bliss".
Bliss is napping with her Standard Poodle big brother,
Ben. She is in her
forever home in Pennsylvania. She was bred by Jean
Erath and Ed Fojtik.
Photo by "Mom", Michele Palmer
Turti may be nearly 3 but he is the biggest kid at heart. He especially loves
rescue puppies as he can play with them and teach them "all the ropes".
Tina Fields
The Giant Hotline 7
HTZ Happy Endings
All in the Family
The adoption of Max and Annie
Sarah and Lee adopted Max in early January. At that
adoption, Tina met Annie, the daughter of Sarah and
Lee, and her family. Max was such a good
representative of Giant Schnauzers, that Annie and her
family decided to adopt a Giant. In mid-January, Annie
went to live with her new forever home. Now, Max and
Annie get together all the time and when summer
arrives, they will be spending their time floating down the
rivers in New Braunfels – what a life!
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Schmitty was originally rescued by a woman off of an ad on Craig's list. She picked up the sweet 5
year old boy, and the original owner told her the dog would be great as a running companion. She
took him home where he was the perfect companion. He never messed up the house, never tore up
anything. After one week, she took him out running. By the time they got back home from the run,
Schmitty was so lame that he could not get out of the car. She took him to the vet who indicated the
dog had severe hip dysplasia and should be put down. The new owner just could not do that to such
a sweet dog so she called HT-Z.
I picked up the dog and took him to my veterinarian. She thought it was his knee and not hips. So
we agreed to X-rays; if he had severe hip dysplasia, we would put it him. Luckily, it was not the hips
but a horrible knee. So, Schmitty was scheduled for a TPLO (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy), a
surgical procedure that changes the biomechanics of the knee to reduce pain and add stability.
Schmitty now has 8 pins in his leg and is on "kennel rest" for 3 months. He can only be out of the
kennel when he is on-lead and has a set physical therapy routine. So, for 3 months, Tina will be
serving as a Physical Therapist.
When Schmitty came to me, he weighed about 100 pounds, and the knee implant is good for less
than 100 pounds. So, poor Schmitty, in addition to needing surgery and getting used to living at
Tina's, had to go on a crash diet. He went from 8 cups of junk food to 4 cups of low calorie food in
one minute. Between the low cal food and the green beans, Schmitty is gaining back his figure (yes,
you can tell the waist indention). He is still strong as an ox and does not like being cooped in his
kennel. However, we are up to hill walking about 3-4 times a day. So, he really likes the quality time
that he gets to spend "only with me."
The Giant Hotline 9
.
Update on Yeti
NOTE: this is one of the 2011 rescues
that we fondly called “The Rat Pack.” Sammy’s name was
changed when he went to Connecticut. His “grandmother”
sent this update, as she was babysitting him while his
people-family went on vacation…
We are having the best time! Yeti and I go on long, long
walks and he loves his red Frisbee which he chases and
brings right back and drops at my feet. He collects his toys
from a basket and scatters them all over the house every
day but by the end of the day he has gathered them all
around his bed and is usually sleeping on top of them. Like
a kid with a teddy bear. He has the best house manners of
any dog I’ve ever met –and I used to train dogs for a living.
He has no interest in table food – if there’s a dinner going
on, he is sound asleep under the table. He hardly ever
barks and will sit quietly at the front door when the FedEx
man appears. The FedEx man isn’t sure he’s a real dog.
He never chews on anything(other than his toys and the sticks he collects outside) and he sleeps until
I’m ready to get up. Not a bit of bother. He loves everyone and as I think you told Jacob, the biggest
danger is that he may lick someone to death. My poor cat is terrified of him, but that appears to be
the only drawback to having this dog around. And he’ll be going back home with his people soon
enough and the cat will have control of the house again.
Bettina Rosser
The Giant Hotline 10
but There’s a Happy Ending
Dream Turns to Nightmare
How lucky we were. Zen had been raised his entire 20 months by the same family, but when they
moved out of country, Zen came to HT-Z. He was in good health, but lacking a brain (your typical
Giant Schnauzer 20 month old). The adopted dad was going to fly to Houston to escort his new dog
home. I encouraged him to use Continental, as I have always had such great service with
Continental from Bush International. It was love at first site (both for Bo and for Zen). Bo purchased
a 700 kennel to fly his new friend back to Seattle. All is ready.
Monday night … I get a frantic call from Bo. Continental/United (they merged which I did not
know) had refused to let Zen fly in a 700 (mind you, Zen is nowhere near the size of Hagrid which I
flew to and from Hawaii in a 700). I was beyond disbelief and Bo was beyond mad! The attitude of
the people at Cargo was rude, and they were not helpful at all. Bo changed his flight and said we
would continue to work on the matter. Meanwhile, I had gobbled down my dinner in case I had to
drive the 5 hours over to Houston to retrieve Zen.
Finally got back in touch with Bo. After he had changed his flight, the Cargo people “found” a
kennel in which Zen could fly. Bo’s description of the crate sounded like it would hold a
hippopotamus; he could not get it in the rental car and so Cargo said they would hold it until the next
evening when Bo and Zen could fly out.
Monday night and all day Tuesday were horrible thunderstorms. But, alas, Tuesday night came,
and the weather had cleared. There was plenty of room for Zen (and five other Giants) in the new
crate. But, as luck would have it, the thunderstorms returned. The 7:00 p.m. flight that should have
gotten to Seattle around 11:00 p.m. (central time) did not get to Seattle until 1:00 a.m. (west coast
time).But “all’s well that ends well.” Zen and Bo are home. By now, Zen has a new name. Zen and
Bo are headed for a lifetime of fun. (Thus the happy ending).
The Giant Hotline 11
The Giant Hotline 12
Pests That Feed on Your Pets
The soft, warm fur of dogs and cats provides the perfect environment for fleas and ticks. These
insects feed on your pet's blood and can cause health problems ranging from allergic reactions to
tapeworm infections to serious tick-borne illnesses. Both fleas and ticks are more common during the
warmer months but there are steps you can take to ward off these pests any time of year.
Flea Warning Signs in Dogs include flea droppings (dark specks) in the fur, flea eggs (white
specks) in the fur, excessive licking or scratching and scabs or hot spots on the skin.
Because fleas can take in 15 times their own weight in blood, they can drain a significant amount
from your pet. Dogs or cats that lose too much blood may develop anemia, a dangerous drop in the
number of their red blood cells. Puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable. Signs of flea-induced
anemia include pale gums and lack of energy.
Fleas are the most common cause of skin disease in dogs and cats. When a flea bites, it injects
saliva into your pet's skin. This may trigger an allergic reaction called flea allergy dermatitis. Signs
include intense itching, hair loss (especially just in front of the tail), scabs, and red, irritated skin,
which may lead to skin infections. Pets can easily pick up fleas with any time spent outdoors. Indoor
cats are at risk even if they just go out on the patio or share their home with a dog. Female fleas can
lay an egg every hour, leading to an infestation in a matter of days.
Fleas are content to drink human blood as well and can easily jump from your pet’s fur or bedding
to your skin. Some people develop a severe reaction to flea bites. Intense itching can lead to
scratching and skin infections. To avoid flea bites, it’s essential to keep your pets and your home fleafree. For every flea you see on your pet, vets estimate there are 100 more in your house. When fleas
lay eggs on your pet, some eggs may fall off and hatch on your carpet, bed, or other furniture. The
new fleas then target you and your pet, feed on your blood, and lay more eggs. Carpets and humid
areas are favorites for fleas. So replacing carpeting and keeping your home as dry as possible may
help take away the welcome mat for fleas.
Tick Warning Signs: You can feel ticks while petting your cat or dog, and you can see them with
the naked eye. They most often attach near the head, neck, ears, or paws. On cats, they are typically
found around the ears and eyes. Ticks can carry dangerous diseases, and it doesn't take long for a
pet to pick up the disease while a tick is feeding. If you find a tick on your pet, try to remove it as soon
as possible.
For safe, effective tick removal skip gasoline, nail polish, petroleum jelly, alcohol, or a hot match.
These methods can force infected fluids back into the bite. Instead, use gloves or tissue to cover
your hands, grasp the tick with tweezers from the side, by the head, close to the skin and pull straight
up. Don't twist or squeeze/ pop the bloated belly. Wash the bite area and your hands. Mouth parts
that remain rarely cause serious problems. But if you're concerned, call your vet.
Ticks crawl onto tall grass and shrubs and wait for a host to walk by. They can wait for a year
without feeding. Dogs are most likely to pick up ticks while walking in the woods or high grass from
spring through fall. Ticks are more common in warm climates and certain wooded areas of the
Northeast.
The brown dog tick, also called the kennel tick, is common across the U.S. It is unique among
ticks because it can thrive indoors, making it a nuisance for kennels and homes with multiple dogs.
The adult tick is reddish-brown and typically attaches around the ears or between a dog's toes. This
tick rarely bites people, but may be a health threat to your pet. It carries ehrlichiosis and other serious
diseases that affect dogs.
Deer ticks feed on many types of mammals, including people. The adults are reddish-brown and
thrive in wooded areas of the Northeast and Midwest. They are dangerous because they can transmit
Lyme disease to dogs and people. Lyme disease can cause fever and joint pain and, occasionally,
serious kidney disease in dogs.
The Giant Hotline 13
One of the most common ticks is the American dog tick, which feeds on people as well as dogs. It's
easy to spot the females because they have a large silver spot behind the head, and they swell to the
size of a small grape after feeding. These ticks can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever, but only if
they are attached for at least 5-20 hours. This disease can be fatal in dogs and may cause serious
symptoms in people.
Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis cause similar symptoms in dogs,
including: loss of appetite, fever, swollen lymph nodes and Joint swelling or pain. These diseases
can have serious complications, so prompt treatment is essential. There is a vaccine to protect
against Lyme disease in dogs, but it is recommended only for pets in high-risk areas. It is usually
given in two doses with a yearly booster. It's best to ask your vet if the vaccine is appropriate for your
pet. In addition to transmitting diseases, ticks can cause other health problems in dogs, including
blood loss, anemia, skin irritation or infection and tick paralysis which refers to muscle weakness
caused by a toxin produced by certain ticks. Most dogs recover quickly once the ticks are removed.
People are susceptible to many of the same tick-borne diseases that affect dogs. Lyme disease is
probably the best known, with one of the first symptoms being a bull's-eye rash. You can't catch tickborne diseases directly from your pet, but you can be bitten by the same ticks. You may also be
exposed by touching a tick's blood while removing the parasite from your pet.
Flea and tick shampoos are mainly useful for killing the fleas and ticks that are already on your
pet. They are less effective at prevention. You can buy the shampoo without a prescription, but be
sure to follow the directions carefully. You need to cover the animal's entire body and wait 10 minutes
before rinsing. Flea collars can be effective at warding off fleas and ticks, but they should never be
worn by puppies or kittens. The Natural Resources Defense Council has also raised concerns about
possible health risks for humans. One study found that residue from some types of flea collars may
pose a risk to children and adults who touch their pets. The organization suggests using oral flea
treatments as an alternative.
Oral flea treatments, such as tablets, are available for dogs and cats, but these do not work
against ticks. One type, called Capstar, is a quick fix that kills adult fleas for a 24-hour period. Other
medications keep flea eggs from hatching and are given once a month. Some flea medications
require a prescription. Check with your vet to see which treatment is right for your pet. Topical
treatments are applied to your dog or cat's back and are highly effective for an entire month. Some
topicals kill fleas and ticks, while others target fleas and their eggs. Brand names include Advantage,
Advantix, Revolution, and Frontline. Be sure to buy the right product for your pet and follow the
instructions carefully.
The EPA has been investigating safety concerns surrounding topical flea and tick treatments. The
agency has found that incorrect use of these products is a major cause of adverse reactions.
Common mistakes include treating a cat with a product intended for dogs or using a large dog dose
on a small dog. Check with your vet if you have any doubts about which dose is right for your pet.
Some people feed their pets brewer's yeast or garlic in hopes of creating an odor that will ward off
fleas. But there is no scientific evidence to support this practice. Even worse, garlic can be toxic to
both dogs and cats. One "green" strategy that does work: the flea comb. Flea combs are completely
nontoxic and offer an effective way to remove fleas from pets that can't take medication. Several
natural flea and tick remedies and very dangerous and can cause severe reactions in cats and dogs.
These include Geranium, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Pennyroyal oil, Garlic and onion. Check with your
vet before giving your pet any type of herbal remedy.
Insect foggers, sometimes called bug bombs, can kill large amounts of fleas at once. These
devices use strong pesticides and are only recommended for severe infestations. You and your pets
must leave your home while the fogger is working. Follow the directions to determine when it is safe
to return. Using too many foggers at once or returning home too soon can pose a health risk to you
and your pets. The first defense is to make your yard inhospitable to fleas and ticks. Mow the lawn
regularly, trim shrubs, rake leaves, and keep garbage covered so it won't attract rodents. Inside the
home, vacuum carpets often with a rotary brush or beater bar. Mop hardwood floors with detergent
every week. And wash all bedding frequently.
The Giant Hotline 14
BISS CH. Tanglewood’s Khochise, “Chief”
By Jean Erath
After an extremely successful show career, made possible by Paul Mihailides and Ed Fojtik, Chief is
enjoying a retirement we could all envy. Chris and I followed his career with much enthusiasm and
are now extremely proud to be part of his retirement. Soon to be 11, Chief spends his days helping to
raise the new generations of Tanglewood offspring, with patience and love. There is nothing he
enjoys more than playing with his grandchildren…except of course, playing with his rope toys and
Frisbees and building his impressive collection of natural bones. He lives on the farm with Ed, while
Chris and I BEG for opportunities for him to vacation with us in Minnesota. When he comes for a
visit, we plan our days around his favorite activities and he spends his evenings with his head in my
lap, getting his tummy scratched, while watching his favorite programs on TV.
Photos by Jean Erath
The Giant Hotline 15
Chief showing his best.
Ahhhh – Retirement!
The Giant Hotline 16
Valerie’s Recipe Corner
Bark -B-Q
2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 cup oatmeal
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/2 cup tomato paste
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3/4 cup water
1 tablespoon honey
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine dry ingredients.
In a separate bowl, mix oil, water, honey and tomato paste.
Add to dry ingredients. Roll to 1/4" thick, cut with cookie cutter,
and place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 30 minutes.
Yields: 2 and 1/2 dozen.
Bone Appetit!
Thanks to Valerie Quella for a summer-appropriate and creative recipe!!
It was the call we never like to get. A shelter in east Texas had received an old Giant, and he was
about to be put down. The kind-hearted woman at the shelter just could not do that to such a sweet
dog. So, she got in touch with HT-Z. Jane called me, and I was on the road.
Bogart was still in the "EU" (euthanizing) room when I got there. Immediately, he walked out of the
kennel and wagged his tail as he came over to me. He was matted and dirty and had a huge tumor
on his side. He went straight from the shelter to my veterinarian. We agreed to biopsy the place
before any decision was made. The original report looked promising so Bogart underwent surgery.
The official pathology report came back - a rare non-malignant tumor that is usually found in Kerrie
Blues. With that removed, Bogart came to Tina's Home for Wayward Dogs.
Winnie rolled her eyes... Not ANOTHER boy! That makes 6 boys and me! What's wrong with you?
You owe me BIG TIME.
Surprisingly, everyone gets along fine, and Bogart loves the back yard and is learning the joy of
zooming. Not sure if this was his first chance to zoom or if he was just getting his puppyhood back.
But for a 10 year old, he runs well - even keeping up with the 2 and 3 year olds.
Moral to this story - fostering and adopting old Giants can be the biggest blessing you will ever have.
Please consider adopting.
Tina Fields aka Foster Mom Extraordinaire
The Giant Hotline 17
A Few things we can learn from our pets
Forget Multitasking - When dogs have a job to do, they give it their undivided attention. It turns out
people should probably do the same. Stanford researchers found that attention and memory suffer in
those who juggle work, email, and web-surfing, compared to those who focus on one task at a time.
Other studies suggest employees actually lose time when multitasking.
Take Naps - You won't catch your pet going from dawn to dusk without any shut-eye. There's good
evidence humans can benefit from catnaps, too. A study involving about 24,000 people indicates
regular nappers are 37% less likely to die from heart disease than people who nap only occasionally.
Short naps can also enhance alertness and job performance.
Walk Every Day - Whether you've got four legs or two, walking is one of the safest, easiest ways to
burn calories and boost heart health. Taking regular walks can also help you fight depression, lose
weight, lower your risk for type 2 diabetes, lower the risk of breast and colon cancer, keep your bones
strong and keep your mind sharp.
Cultivate Friendships - People are social animals, and friendships have measurable health benefits.
Researchers in Australia followed 1,500 older people for 10 years. Those with the most friends were
22% less likely to die than those with the fewest friends.
Live in the Moment - Living in the moment may be one of the most important lessons we can learn
from our pets. Focusing on the here and now helps keep worry & projection at bay.
Don't Hold a Grudge - Part of living in the moment is letting bygones be bygones. Let go of old
grudges, and you'll literally breathe easier. Chronic anger has been linked to a decline in lung
function, while forgiveness contributes to lower blood pressure and reduced anxiety. People who
forgive also tend to have higher self-esteem.
Wag - OK, so maybe you don't have a tail. But you can smile or put a spring in your step when you're
feeling grateful. Researchers have found a strong connection between gratitude and general wellbeing. In one study, people who kept gratitude journals had better attitudes, exercised more, and had
fewer physical complaints.
Maintain Curiosity - According to a popular saying, curiosity may be hazardous to a cat's health. But
not so for humans. Researchers have found that people who are more curious tend to have a greater
sense of meaning in life. Other studies have linked curiosity to psychological well-being and the
expansion of knowledge and skills.
Be Silly - Indulging in a little silliness may have serious health benefits. Cardiologists at the University
of Maryland Medical Center found a stronger sense of humor in people with healthy hearts than in
those who had suffered a heart attack. They conclude that "laughter is the best medicine" – especially
when it comes to protecting your heart.
Get a Back Rub - The power of touch is nothing to sniff at. The Touch Research Institute at the
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine has found massage therapy can ease pain, give the
immune system a boost, and help manage chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes. The touch of
a loved one may be even more powerful. In one study, married women experienced less anxiety over
the threat of an electric shock when they held their husbands' hands.
If You Love Someone, Show It - Dogs don't play hard to get – when they love you, they show you. It's
a good approach for people seeking to strengthen their relationships. A study published in the journal
Personal Relationships suggests small, thoughtful gestures can have a big impact on how connected
and satisfied couples feel.
Play - Goofing off is not just for kids and kittens. In his book, Play, Stuart Brown, MD, writes that
playing is a basic human need along with sleeping and eating. Play enhances intelligence, creativity,
problem-solving, and social skills. So take a cue from your pet and devote yourself to an activity that
has no purpose other than sheer fun.
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Be Aware of Body Language - Dogs are excellent at reading each other's intent from body language.
Humans, not so much. While most of us do reveal our emotions through posture, speech patterns,
and eye contact, other people generally aren't very good at reading those cues. People get better at
decoding body language as they get older.
Stretch Often - Stretching will keep you limber, but the benefits don't stop there. In a 10-week study,
volunteers who did no exercise other than stretching experienced surprising physical changes.
Besides improving flexibility, they increased their muscle strength, power, and endurance. Although
the study was a small one, the results suggest stretching may be a good alternative for people who
have a condition that rules out traditional strength-training.
Linch Pin's Luscious Lola, UDX RE
With Mom Jennifer Tennyson
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Sonnenschein’s Touch of Sweetness, “Ben”
Best of Winners
Arrowhead Kennel Club
April, 2012
Sire: BISS BIS CH Tanglewood’s Sweetness
DAM: CH Sonnenschein’s Mak’N No Promises
Breeders: Jane Chism and Judi Boston
Handler: Greg Reyna
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Sultan, who just turned two, is owned by Scott
Turnbull and Bill Ameser.
Above: He is really enjoying his birthday gift from
Aunt Jane.
Right: He just loves his cone?
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Sincere apologies: This was omitted from the previous newsletter due to printing accident.
CONGRATULATIONS!!
MACH Paragon Guinness At Night NAP NJP MXF NFP CGC earned his Master Agility Championship
on September 04, 2011. AKC Agility Judge Deborah Funk, Joe Freeman (handler/aka spouse) and
Guinness (of course) at the Permian Basin Obedience Training Club of Texas's agility trial in Midland,
Texas. Malinda Julien Photography.
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