Brown Dog Foundation

Bragging rights...

2012-02-04T19:58:00.000-08:00

It's rare that I feel Brown Dog Foundation does something beyond amazing... not that I don't believe that we make a difference every day, but it takes a lot to rock my world. And, in January - we did just that!

Eight families - yes, EIGHT families received assistance to save their pet's lives! Zeus (Nashville TN), Cooper (Cedar Rapids IA), Olive (Cookeville TN), Poncho (Kingsport TN), Tommy (Medford OR), Jake (Spring Hill TN), Juno (Eugene OR) and Muddy (Lenoir City TN) all enjoyed at least one more day with the family who loves them because Brown Dog Foundation was able to help!

Sadly, Juno didn't make it. We needed to raise several thousand dollars overnight to cover the cost of back surgery. We didn't make it, but his family was deeply moved by the efforts and generosity of Brown Dog's supporters!

For the rest of these families - Brown Dog Foundation is full of Heroes! We agree!!!! Thank you for all you give, so selflessly, to help others! And, please, don't stop now!

Loss: It's harder during the holidays...

2011-12-15T10:49:00.000-08:00

Grief is a tough bird. She comes in waves at times you never expect. If you've learned how to deal with grief, you know that the best thing you can do is give into her when she approaches.

"Live through the Grief". That was the advice I received when my grandfather died. I was reminded of that advice when two friends died tragically during my junior year in high school. And, again when my other grandfather passed away.

Then, I lost my best buddy... Chocolate Chip. Grief doesn't visit for the people I've lost anymore. But for some reason, she still comes a knockin' every holiday reminding me that Chip and Goldie are gone. Why is this grief so much harder to let go of?

It's simple - I had a deeper connection and relationship with Chip and Goldie than I had with the people I lost. They were my confidantes when no one else could listen. They were waiting for me every time I came home for several years. They depended upon me to live. They were the equivalent of children.

If you've ever lost a pet, likely you will think of him or her this holiday season. Remember the good. Know that you were probably the single most important thing to that pet. Be thankful you knew them.

Just live through the grief. Happy Holidays.

Hypothyroidism in Dogs

2011-12-13T18:48:00.000-08:00

About a year ago, my Veterinarian ran a full-screen blood panel on Toffee, my then-five year old pit-mix. It came back with elevated cholestrol levels and she recommended retesting again in 6 months. Often high cholestrol in dogs is an indication of Hypothyroid, or under-active thyroid. Dogs with hypothyroid will experience weight gain, lethargy and hair loss. Toffee was definitely pudgy and lazy, but thankfully had not lost his beautiful coat.

Hypothyroid is most commonly an autoimmune disease - where the body views the thyroid as abnormal and begins attacking it until it stops working, or slows down sufficiently. On more rare occasion hypothyroid can be genetically passed due to improper breeding.

Toffee was a poorly bred dog, for sure. There is no doubt in my mind that he has red-nosed pitbull in him, but he also shows characteristics of a labrador. Both the terrier and labrador breeds have a very high occurrence of hypothyroid disease. As a puppy, Toffee also endured nine months of a horrible, and sometimes non-existent, diet. His first family seldom fed him and when they did, it was generally over-processed table scraps rather than fresh meat, fruits and vegetables.

Less than six months ago, another blood test confirmed hypothyroid. We immediately started Toffee on synthetic hormone replacement and retested his levels 30 days later. Not quite where the doctor wanted his results, we increased the dosage just a smidge and retested 30 days later.

The cost for testing and medication totaled less than $400. And, armed with a prescription written by my doctor, we have been able to purchase the hormone replacement from FarmVet, an online pharmacy at a really great price. There are holistic approaches to treat and supplement treatment of this disease. We plan to try them out in the coming year.

Until then, synthetic hormone therapy is working wonders. Toffee has returned to his sleek "figure" and his energy level is back to normal. He'll turn seven in January and should still be a pretty active dog. Thanks to an excellent doctor and proven treatment - he has several more years of an active lifestyle to enjoy!

More Holiday Gift Ideas... pet treats, toys and grooming!

2011-12-05T06:11:00.000-08:00

We want you and your pet to enjoy as safe and happy "howliday" as possible. If your pet exhibits lethargy or begins to vomit, be sure to get them to an Emergency Clinic immediately. And, we hope you'll share your favorite recipes and gift items here!

Planning to give your pet new treats, but unsure if they will upset his/her stomach? According to one of our favorite Veterinarians, Dr. Mike Hatcher of Premier VetCare in Smyrna, TN... the best rule of thumb is to read the ingredients so you are aware of any "uncommon ingredients" and don't overfeed. Treats are meant to be a taste - not a whole meal. If you want to give treats abundantly - consider fresh fruit and vegetables. But remember, no grapes or raisins!

Looking for a toy that serves a dual purchase of improving your pet's health as well? My favorite toy to bring home to my pittie are the rope bones that I can buy at Target for $.99. They act just like floss - as he chews and chomps on the bone to "rip it apart"... the strings floss his teeth! Always supervise your pet with this toy as swallowing the strings can cause major problems in the intestines resulting in a costly surgery to save your pet's life.

Want to spruce up your pet without having to pay for a full groom? John Paul Pet now offers a full line of grooming products for animals (and tested on humans!). From Awapoochi to Oatmeal Shampoo for a traditional bath, to a Foaming Waterless Shampoo that is brushed through the coat, to wipes for teeth, ears, eyes and paws... these products will "freshen" up your pet in a hot minute! You can purchase John Paul Pet Products online or at most any Paul Mitchell School near you.

Tell us what you do you for your pets at the holidays!

Holiday Ideas... food, gifts and pet adoption!

2011-11-30T12:11:00.000-08:00

What do you do special for your pets at the Howlidays? We've compiled a couple of lists of some nice things you can do for your pet and a few resources to help execute!

Want to give your pet "Howliday Leftovers", but you're unsure what they can tolerate? Visit Andi Brown's website, The Whole Pet Diet, for excellent information on dietary specifics and quantities. While there, sign up for Andi's email newsletter and her blog and she'll send you consistent information that helps you change your pet's diet to help moderate or eliminate some diseases and food-related allergies.

Are you planning to give your pet new toys, but unsure of safety precautions? Talk to the pet store where you're making your purchase. Our recommendation is to purchase from a local boutique where the shop owner has a vested interest in keeping his/her customers healthy and happy. Our favorite stores in Middle Tennessee include Come.Sit.Stay and The Farm at Natchez Trace. If you want to order online, try FarmVet. In your community - just google or search the phone book for pet boutiques.

Know someone who wants to adopt, or are you planning to adopt a new friend yourself this Howliday Season? One of our favorite Veterinarians, Dr. Lisa Chassy of Young Williams Animal Center in Knoxville, TN has a tip. Give a Pet Adoption Gift Certificate instead of adopting. The holidays are a very hectic time of year and a new pet can get lost in the shuffle. It's best to wait until life settles down a bit. Not all shelters are offering the Pet Adoption Gift Certificate Program yet, but most will work something out with you.

Tell us what you do for your pets!

Options

2011-11-22T04:19:00.000-08:00

When Chocolate Chip (the original brown dog) was diagnosed with cancer, I had lost my job just 6 weeks earlier. The next 48 hours were the most agonizing of my life. I knew I would find work again... but, was I ready to "finance" a $2,500 bill without the guaranteed paycheck? After Chip passed away, I spent a great deal of time considering how to ensure I was never in this situation again.

The first thing I learned about was pet insurance. I had no idea that pet insurance was available and totally affordable! VPI, Pets Best, Trupanion... there are several options.

The second thing I looked into was "preventative care". I began researching how diet can affect a pet's health. I found several resources and spoke with my Veterinarian about what I was learning. What I was learning is that what we put into our body directly impacts how healthy or unhealthy we'll be. The same rules apply to animals. Some of my favorite resources include:

The Whole Pet Diet, by Andi Brown
Pet Tao, by Dr. Marc Smith & Dr. Casey Damron
Lynn Higgins at Dizzy's Dog Wash, Nashville TN

Third, I researched the Veterinarians in my area and found a clinic whose pricing was more modest. This savings allowed me to take my pet to the doctor more frequently - we caught chronic illnesses earlier and my doctor was able to benchmark my pet's health. Now, as he ages, we will catch anomalies earlier.

Finally, I learned that there are always options. When my pet is diagnosed and I am presented with a treatment plan I now ask "are there other options?" I have learned that it's my responsibility to let my doctor know if I can't afford the ideal treatment. When he/she knows that finances are an issue, most will offer options, if they exist.

Veterinarians care about their patients. They want your pet to live a long, healthy life. Trust in their expertise. And, educate yourself about the options.

Your Feedback Helps Brown Dog Make Better Decisions

2011-11-11T05:38:00.000-08:00

Brown Dog Foundation's National Board is working diligently to make 2012 its best year ever and establish itself as a Virtual Giving Program - offering assistance to anyone, anytime, anywhere. In doing so we would appreciate your input by taking this short survey. This should take only take a few minutes of your time and your answers are anonymous, so please be honest.

Each month, Brown Dog Foundation receives 110+ applications for assistance from across the country. Of those who apply, nearly 70% (71) qualify for our financial assistance program. The cost to Brown Dog to assist those 71 applicants averages $71,000. As you can see, the need nationwide is great. Establishing a National Program does not take away from localized Chapters - it simply allows Brown Dog to help more families save their pet's life.

I'd like to share a few stories from families Brown Dog was forced to turn away because our National Program does not yet exist.

From Lukkas in Ames IA: I lost my job on 10/27/2011 and 2 days later I had to take my pet to the vet - they found an obstruction in his intestines. Without immediate surgery he would have died. My doctor is allowing me to make payments, but with no job, I don't know how I will.

From Amber Jean in White River VT: I work hard, but barely make enough to get by. Blake, my 4 month old Pit bull, began to get sick on 10/26/11. We brought her to our local ER veterinarian who was open. They did a test for Parvo virus. It came back positive. Her white blood cell are suppose to be 5 to 7 which are used to fight the virus but Blake are only 1.4, she cant fight this alone. The Veterinarian cannot begin treatment without payment.

From Dee in Mesa AZ: I am on disability. I can barely provide for my family and have had to sell a lot of my stuff just to pay bills. I have two boys. I was hit by a truck while riding my bike 2 years ago and sustained near-fatal injuries. I can not sit for long periods of time. I can no longer work because of the pain. Our dog, Ace, is very ill and has been in the emergency clinic since Thursday. His calcium is elevated and he has exhibited the side effects from that including muscle twitching. He has been throwing up (for a week) and lost 8 pounds. At times, he can not walk due to the side effects which include heart failure. Ace will die without further treatment.

The survey will be available until December 31, 2011. We thank you for your input!!!

To help Brown Dog Foundation raise funds, please contact carol@browndogfoundation.org.

Pet Insurance

2011-08-04T05:57:00.000-07:00

Written by Andy Chmiel, VP of Business Development at Medicare.com
Brown Dog Foundation, National Board Officer (Treasurer)

It seems these days you can insure anything. Your hands... if you are a surgeon, your voice... if you’re a singer, and even your back side... if you’re Jennifer (J-Lo) Lopez. As a licensed Insurance agent I was intrigued when this product hit the main stream market a few years back – Pet insurance. A unique way for people to make sure no medical surprise disrupts their pet’s everyday life.

My team of agents reviewed the products and found out that this all started in England with a company named Veterinary Pet Insurance or VPI. Their first pet insurance policy was sold back in 1947. While Pet insurance has been around for quite some time, less than 1% of Americans have taken advantage of this opportunity. As more and more Americans choose to pursue their careers, they want to share their success with a devoted and loyal companion. No, not always a spouse, but four legged and feathered friends too. More and more empty nesters are adopting ‘loved ones’ to care for in their golden years. Americans have never been more poised to spend more time with their beloved pets then right now. These Insurance plans are just what the public needs.

The policies begin at $10-15 a month for a basic plan and grow to $60-80 a month for plans which cover medications, well checks, and surgeries. Monthly premiums will depend on the age, breed and general health of the pet. Some employer groups have offered pet insurance as part of their employee benefit package and a greater number of folks are saying ‘yes’.

Getting a plan might be as easy as calling your current insurance agent but may require getting online and doing some research. Find a plan that will fit your life style and budget but most importantly the needs of your pet.

Your ultimate goal is the health and well being of your family’s best little friend. As a person that plans everything out I am sure that when the right little furry friend enters my life I will weigh the pros and cons and do my own research on insurance. It just makes sense to be a responsible pet owner who prepares for the financial surprises of being a pet owner.

Homeopathic Options for Pet Care & Prevention

2011-08-01T06:14:00.000-07:00

More and more pet owners are enjoying the health benefits of a more "natural" lifestyle for their pets. We've seen an increase in the number of pet owners who feed holistic, raw and home-cooked diets. And, we're also seeing a higher propensity toward those pet owners who prefer homeopathic treatments.

Please note: Brown Dog Foundation encourages you to discuss all pros and cons to homeopathic treatment with your Veterinarian before you make the decision to give it a try. Make an informed decision.

Flea Spray: - Dizzy's Dog Wash has an easy to make, all natural flea spray that works wonders! No chemicals.

Mosquito Spray: More rosemary than you know what to do with? add to pot of water w/lemon slices, simmer for 30ish minutes, put in spritzing bottle, & use as natural mosquito deterrent for you & your pets. - Camp Chaos 37206
** This spray will repel mosquitos, however, it does not protect your pet from Heartworm Disease which is transferred through a bite from an infected mosquito.

Urinary Tract Health: Every dog I've ever owned has urinary tract issues. We use the Cranberry Relief supplement. It comes in a powder form and is easy for the dogs to take (I just sprinkle it on their food).

Storm Anxiety: - The Thundershirt is amazing! My pittie is terribly afraid during storms. Whether lightning, thunder or just rain - he gets very agitated (recently going so far as to grind his nose into the carpet leaving it raw and bleeding). He's now markedly calmer within 30 minutes of putting on the Thundershirt!

Travel Anxiety: My dogs are nervous in the car and since we drive 9 hours a couple times each year to visit Brown Dog Foundation's second chapter, we had to do something. My groomer, Style Unleashed, suggested placing a few drops of Lavender Extract on the car seat/dog pillows. Both dogs instantly relaxed and slept comfortably throughout the entire drive!

There are hundreds of alternative and homeopathic options to explore. Please share what works for you by leaving a comment below!

Responsible Pet Ownership - Part 3

2011-07-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

In our last post under this title, we discussed some of the legal responsibilities a pet owner/guardian has to abide by. We're going to continue that discussion here. We believe that it's important to remember that legally speaking - you have a responsibility to your family, your pet and your community. The consequences endured may not only affect you... they can cause unnecessary suffering to your pet or a potential health risk to your neighbors and family.

What do you do when your pet becomes ill or injured? If you choose not to provide care, or simply can't afford care, can that become a legal issue? Many assume that it is not - after all isn't it "your" business as to how you do or do not provide care for your pet? In actuality, most states and townships have laws in place to protect companion animals from neglect and cruelty and they are getting more and more proactive in enforcing those laws. Untreated injuries and or diseases that cause unnecessary suffering are more frequently being classified as neglect/cruelty.

The question your local Animal Control Officer has to answer is... does the condition left untreated qualify as neglect and/or cruelty? Often, their litmus test is simple - does the animal appear to be in imminent danger of dying? As a pet owner/guardian - you have to know the difference. Wounds that are left untreated and become infected will likely and eventually qualify as neglect. Disease that is left untreated for long periods of time will likely and eventually qualify as neglect.

A partial list of diseases that left untreated can cause immense pain and suffering, and could potentially get you in trouble with the law are:
1. Mange - whether demodex or sarcoptic. Both can make your pet extremely sick. Both are very curable when diagnosed and treated. And, there are many low-cost options for treatment as well.

2. Heartworms - in the early stages of heartworm disease, your pet will likely not exhibit any outward symptoms. But as the disease progresses, he/she will bloat, have difficulty breathing and become quite lethargic. Again, treatment is reasonably priced.

3. Open wounds - dogs bite each other. Dogs injure themselves. We are not suggesting that you rush them to the ER Clinic every time they get hurt. However, a wound that is left without treatment and subsequently becomes infected can be viewed as neglect/cruelty.

4. Diabetes - a diabetic pet needs insulin, just as we humans do. Without treatment, your pet can slip into a diabetic coma or simply waste away. Either situation can be considered neglect/cruelty.

5. An injury or disease in the mouth that precludes the pet's ability to eat. Without nourishment, your pet will eventually die. Periodontal disease (gum disease), abscesses that interfere with your pet's ability to eat and injuries to the mouth can all be viewed as neglect/cruelty if left without treatment.

As we said, this is a partial list. And, all of the injuries/illnesses we've listed are treatable. Costs to treat these conditions range from extremely inexpensive ($4/month for antibiotics to treat infection) to more expensive (about $750 to treat heartworms). The important thing to note - if you fail to provide medical treatment to your pet, you may get into some legal trouble - you may be charged with neglect or cruelty.

The best test to determine potential legal liability - ask your doctor. If you can treat the pet at home because funds are an issue (or you simply prefer more homeopathic remedies), your doctor will tell you and provide instructions. If not, the cost of treatment will likely be a one-time expense and in most cases your doctor can help you understand all of the options for preventative care, so you avoid making the same mistake twice.

The "side-effects" of Brown Dog Foundation

2011-07-14T13:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry I'm a little late in writing this week - it's been pretty crazy as I tried to get out of Nashville and up to our Illinois/Iowa chapter. As I was leaving, however, we were able to approve our 13th grant in 2011. Bug, a little Boston Terrier from Knoxville, will have mammary tumors removed this week thanks to our program!

Just before sitting down to write the blog, I was fortunate to read an email from a family whose grant had been approved, but they decided not to take advantage of it. It's interesting what wonderful things arise from our existence. Allow me to tell you the story.

Early this year, a young law student applied for assistance with Brown Dog Foundation to help her pay for an Endoscopy for her dog Nahla. Nahla was wasting away and while her doctor felt 95% confident that Nahla had Inflammatory Bowel Disease, only an endoscopy would rule out cancer or other major issues. The cost for the endoscopy was outside their reach.

During our application process, the Veterinarian on our board suggested an exploratory surgery rather than Endoscopy - usually this can be done less expensively and if there is a tumor, it could be removed easily and get the dog back on track. In discussing this option with her own personal doctors, they suggested waiting 30 days or so to see if her new diet made a difference. A wonderful idea!

Thirty days later - we received the kindest email from Nahla and her family letting us know that she's back to 100% without having to undergo surgery or an expensive test! The special diet is working.

While we love to help families get the financial assistance they need from us, it's especially inspiring to see the Veterinarians offer alternatives to expensive diagnostics and treatments that may be unnecessary. The funds that were held for Nahla have been released and we hope to assist another family soon.

Here's the note from Nahla's family:

Thank you so much for offering us the grant. It is July 14th, it expires today and we have elected not to use it. Nahla is doing very well, back to her old self. She is healthy, alert and as lovable as ever! She has offered me so much so support over the years.

In fact as I sit here in the last leg of my bar preparation, Nahla is sitting with me. She's my study buddy. I study long hours and get very anxious but she helps me calm down and empathizes with my "suffering."

She and the cat are back to playing and hanging out together, grooming each other, play-fighting etc. We take Nahla to the dog park almost everyday and she seems to be in tip-top shape.

I will never forget this wonderful opportunity you offered us. I know it will go to good use with another dog's family.

A million thanks!

What is Responsible Pet Ownership - Part 2?

2011-07-07T05:44:00.000-07:00

Part 2

These are difficult articles to write. Why? Because the definition of Responsible Pet Ownership is so controversial. For each person you ask, you will get a different definition of Responsible Pet Ownership. For starters - about 50% of those you ask will say "It should be Responsible Pet Guardianship, not ownership." Which is one of the most basic and inherent issues.

Where some believe a pet is property, others believe that we are guardians to them. Unfortunately, the current laws in our country define most animals as property, which makes it very hard to change the perception. Hard, but not impossible. It's important that animal enthusiasts continue to focus on improving the laws to provide better protection of our companions. One way to stay current on the progress of changes to the many laws among all states, is to review the HSUS website, particularly the Issues area.

As a pet owner/guardian, you accept a few basic responsibilities when adopting, rescuing or otherwise acquiring a companion pet. As a Pet Owner/Guardian you have a legal, ethical and financial responsibility to your family, your pet and your community. What does that look like and what does that mean? Over the next several weeks, we will dissect and explore these three areas of responsibility and what they mean to you.

What legal responsibility do you accept when becoming a pet owner/guardian? Well, it's your job to know what the rules are before you adopt. Most every city (at least those considered metropolitan) in the country have laws governing pet owners. These laws exist to protect your pet, your family and your community members from health concerns. From Rabies Vaccination Compliance to Containment (leashing as well as containing a female in heat) to waste disposal to Dangerous Dog laws - there are a myriad of laws on the books. Have a conversation with your local Animal Care and Control facility to get an idea of the laws in your community.

Some laws exist to protect your family (Dangerous Dog Laws, Rabies Vaccination, etc.). Some laws exist to protect your pet (Dangerous Dog Laws, Rabies Vaccination, Containment, etc.). And all laws exist to protect members of the community. As a pet guardian, you owe it to your family, your pet and your neighbor to do everything in your power to keep control of your pet so as to avoid injury to him or others as well as illness.

In the next blog, we will discuss the Ethical responsibilities of pet owners/guardians. Feel free to post questions or share your insights and thoughts about this subject.

How Does One Choose the Right Pet Food?

2011-07-04T08:26:00.000-07:00

Wow... what a loaded topic. But, it was requested by several of our supporters so we'll take a stab at answering it. First, we have to remind you that any and all dietary decisions should always first be discussed with your Veterinarian or a licensed and trusted animal dietician. The information we provide is simply to educate you about the options that exist. It's up to you to make the decision that best fits your family. For more information, click on the "red" words and phrases.

When considering which food to feed, there are several thoughts for you to consider:
1. What food best provides for your pet's health?
2. What price range fits best into your family's budget?
3. Can you easily and readily purchase the food?
4. Do you have time to "prepare" your pet's food, or would a prepackaged food work better?
5. Does your pet have itchy skin or recurrent ear or yeast infections, or other allergies?

While we are not necessarily recommending this brand - their "Comparison" program allows you to see how store bought foods stack up.

In summary, and just like the recommendations for humans, feeding a diet free from processed food products will yield a healthier pet. And, when your pet is healthier naturally, you will likely spend less to treat chronic diseases and conditions like diabetes, thyroid disease, urinary tract issues and more.

Select a diet that fits your lifestyle, your financial situation and your pet's needs. Review your decision with your Veterinarian and be sure that the guidance you receive is from a respected and trusted resource (a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with a Holistic Certification in Eastern Medicine or PhD is generally trustworthy).

The last thought to consider is how much to feed. Obesity in pets is one of the top concerns of Veterinarians today. As many as 43% of pets are overweight and more than 5% fall into the obese category. Daily exercise is necessary for both you and your pet. And, pay close attention to feeding instructions - if you are instructed to feed 1 cup twice a day... measure it out and feed 1 cup twice a day. With careful monitoring and increased activity, you can safely and effectively lower your pet's weight and give him or her a healthier life.

Here's to the health of your whole family!

What is Responsible Pet Ownership?

2011-06-29T13:31:00.000-07:00

Part 1 in a Multi-Part Series
written by Maggie Calderwood
Brown Dog Foundation Director, National Board

Responsible pet ownership begins before you even own your pet. It begins with research to make the best decision. Where is the best place to purchase or adopt a pet? A pet store, an advertisement in the classifieds of the local paper, on websites such as Ebay, Craigslist or Petfinders, from a breeder listed on the internet? How do you educate yourself to make the best decision for you, your family and your new pet?

What type of pet would you like to acquire? Have you researched breed attributes, qualities and activity levels? All are considerations to insure a great quality of life for pet and owner.

Now that you have decided on the type of pet, where should you look for the new addition? Animal Control Facilities, Humane Shelters and Rescue Groups are the first place to look for the new family member. Private Rescues will do thorough research on the pet’s new family and environment to guarantee a good fit for all involved in the process. A/C facilities and shelters don't do as thorough of a background check, but all share the common goal of finding the pet a home for life, the furever home!

Purchasing from pet stores and over the internet is a risky option when acquiring a pet. The goal here is to generate income for the stores and the breeders. Good breeders do exist but far too many bad breeder and puppy mills are easier to find. It is up to you to do the research when purchasing a pet.

1. Always insist on meeting the puppy or kitten and the parents of the puppy or kitten before making the purchase.
2. Look at the medical records available on the pet being purchased and on the parents. Reputable breeders will have the records available and will not have a problem revealing the medical history of the breeding stock.
3. Avoid meeting the seller at a highway rest stop for an exchange, having a puppy or kitten shipped as cargo freight on an airplane, or walking into a store front and purchasing the cute face without asking any questions or doing any research on the breeding facility of the pet.

Why is researching the breeder and parents of the pet important? It is important to prevent unforeseen medical issues and heartache when the pet you are in love with has a genetic disease or disfigurement a few years down the road. I was involved in a rescue at a backyard breeder/puppy mill facility last fall and acquired a male used as breeding stock for 6 years. During those 6 years, this male was chained to the bumper of car, fed fairly regularly and bred. This male had been born on the property and unfortunately for him was not sold with his litter mates. I was responsible for transporting this male to a breed specific rescue and during the 3 hour transport I named the dog, Caramel. It was the first name he ever had, before that time he had only a number attached to his being. Caramel was supposed to be grey and white but was the color of Caramel when I picked him up because in 6 years he had never had a bathe except for the rain and snow storms he endured while chained to the bumper of the abandoned car. The door of the car had been removed, this was his shelter.

The rescue immediately bathed him, took him to the vet clinic for vaccines and to be neutered. He lived in a foster home for 2 months where he was house-trained and taught doggie etiquette and was then adopted into a very loving home where he lived for 6 months before suffering a massive heart attack. The autopsy showed a congenital heart defect. This story is sad on many levels. The breed specific rescue supplied over $1,200.00 in medical care and rehabilitation for this poor dog and the new owners invested not only money, but their hearts.

This is not the saddest part of the story. Caramel sired over 100 puppies during his stud career, puppies that may or may not have the same congenital heart condition. The bouncing, happy, fluffy puppies on this facility’s website show no indication of the hidden health issues that may occur down the road.

Without the proper research, an owner may be looking at costly medical procedures in the future; such as heart surgery, hip replacement, luxating patella repair, corrective eye, ear, nose surgery. Will you be able to afford these types surgeries or will you be forced to make the decision to surrender or euthanize your pet?

Brown Dog Foundation is committed to helping responsible pet owners with medical care for their pets during times of financial crisis. Pet owners can help Brown Dog Foundation by doing their research before acquiring a new pet. If everyone takes the step to end irresponsible breeding of pets then we will all have a better and healthier life!

RIP Caramel.

Chance - My Latest Inspiration

2011-06-27T13:12:00.000-07:00

In late 2008, my friend Amy Wolanski suggested that we put a team of runners together to raise money for Brown Dog Foundation's National Program. We engaged two of her friends and two of mine, for a team of six.

One of the girls, Katie, shared several stories with me about her roommate's dog, Chance, a five-year old pitbull. Katie loved Chance a lot! Chance trained with her, kept her company and made her laugh when she was too sore to do anything else. Katie had a deep bond with Chance and repeatedly said, "I don't know what I would do if we couldn't save Chance."

At the end of March this year, Katie called me. Chance had been diagnosed with Osteosarcoma - bone cancer. She said, "It all makes sense now why we raised that money. I never expected it would hit so close to home. Chance's mom has a job, but she doesn't make a ton of money. Treatment for Chance will be outside her reach. I'm going to do everything I can to help, but if we fall short, can Brown Dog help?"

Over the next several days, we moved Ashley through our process of Prequalification, the Application for Assistance and securing information from the Veterinarian. They decided to amputate his leg and consider a few short rounds of chemotherapy to buy him some time.

Just before the 2nd round of chemo, Chance developed another tumor and fluid in his chest. The prognosis went from favorable to not. That was mid-May. On June 6th, Chance was unable to keep going. He passed away quietly with his mom at his side and the Doctors at Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners who provided his treatment and hope for his family.

Osteosarcoma is one of the most vicious of canine cancers taking the life of the dog within a year. Most dogs seldom survive past 6 months, with or without treatment. Osteosarcoma occurs ten times more frequently in dogs than in humans. Sometimes, providing a regimen of holistic supplements and a cancer-fighting diet in addition to amputation and chemotherapy can improve length and quality of life. In our experience with the condition, all three pets we assisted had different results. You know Chance's story, here are the other two:

Loki (2007) - a 10-year old German Shepherd owned by a young couple who had just relocated to Tennessee. In the process of selling their home in CA and buying a home in TN, they were unable to provide for Loki. They paid for the amputation of his leg and Brown Dog paid 75% toward 4 chemotherapy sessions (with donated medications). Loki lived nearly 9 months post treatment.

Winnie (2008) - a pitbull mix who had enjoyed a 13 year lifespan. Winnie's owner opted not to amputate her leg. She chose the less-invasive palliative treatment of pain management and steroids. Winnie's owner decided not to amputate her leg. Winnie lived for 4 months post-diagnosis.

So, why is Chance my latest inspiration? We are thrilled that we could give Loki, Winnie and Chance a good quality of life for their last months with their family. We also know that their families greatly appreciated the opportunity to try everything possible. Loki's family donates and volunteers. Winnie's mom made several quilts and bags for us to auction off before she passed away in 2009. And, Chance's mom is already trying to figure out how she can get involved.

Your donations make it possible for us to provide this hope to more families.

Saving Money on Your Pet's Prescriptions

2011-06-19T07:29:00.001-07:00

When a pet is diagnosed with a critical and chronic illness, the cost of prescription medications to provide a good quality of life can break the bank. Today, there are many options available to pet guardians to save money in this area. Your doctor will write a prescription that you can have filled elsewhere. And we recommend that you set up regular monitoring appointments with your Veterinarian if you choose to purchase medications from an outside resource.

Human Pharmacies - a few years back and to meet competitive pricing demands, human pharmacies such as Walgreens, CVS, WalMart, Target and grocery stores, created a $4 list. These drugs can be purchased in 30 day increments costing the purchaser only $4/month. At $4/month - just about any condition can be treated without forcing the family into financial ruin. Kroger has just announced their Pet Pharmacy Program.

Online Suppliers - one needs to be cautious in this arena as not all online suppliers are equal. We recommend FarmVet or Drs. Foster & Smith. For medications that are animal specific or are more expensive than the $4 list, you can often buy in bulk which will result in significant savings.

For those who prefer the alternative medicine route - a good resource is the Dog Owner's Guide: Alternative Medicine. If you decide to go this direction, however, we encourage you to consult a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine who has a certification in Holistic Medicine.

Grieving the Loss of a Pet

2011-06-18T12:05:00.000-07:00

Losing a loved one can be devastating. It can also be an opportunity to uncover personal strength. Losing a beloved pet can have the same effect, without the understanding and empathy of those around you.

As pet guardians, we are expected to move through grieving a pet at a much faster, and more quiet, pace. When Chocolate Chip passed away I had friends and family who understood and supported my need to grieve. But, there were just as many friends and family who were impatient, annoyed and relentless. I wish I had known and understood the 7 Stages of Grief so I could have handled those relationships better.

There are several resources for grieving pet guardians ranging from local to online. It's important for those who were especially close to a pet to experience all stages of grief and allow themselves to live through their healing. It's best to rely on professionals to assist if you are having too much difficulty. University of Tennessee has a Pet Loss Support Program which is a collaboration between the Colleges of Veterinary Medicine and Social Work.

Online resources provide opportunities to share experiences and feelings with others who have gone through a similar loss or are experiencing it today. The Pet Loss Grief Support website shares the Story of Rainbow Bridge, Memorials and Chat Rooms, among other resources.

To find help in your own area, you can google "pet loss support" - you'll be amazed at the long list of resources that exist to help you. And, if you'd like to honor your own beloved pet or a special friend's, you can post a memorial on Brown Dog's website. Take a look at our Memorials.

From Bad to Good

2011-06-17T09:55:00.000-07:00

Last summer, a friend at a local Humane Society shelter told me to come meet a dog that looked as though she could be my recently deceased dog's grandbaby. I had loved Goldie so much and was disappointed that I only had 3 years with her, so finding a young one who looked like her was appealing. Hold onto your seat though... this little lady was nothing like Mama Goldie!

When I met her, she was extremely nervous and she didn't have a name. So I called her "Little Girl" during our initial interactions. She cowered in the corner the first several times I visited. Eventually, she came out of her shell and I fell in love. And, so she was named Beignet (Ben yay') and I brought her home.

She had been a stray for the first 14 months of her life, so she was not potty-trained, had a bad habit of eating paper and cardboard and thought that running through the house in circles was the best game! She wore me out and drove my older pit-mix, Toffee, over the edge. I had to do something. The accidents had given my home a distinct scent (not one I appreciated). The wildness was causing minor altercations with Toffee (who thank GOD is a great dog). We considered rehoming her, until my friend Cory at Middle TN Dog Psychology reminded me of the basics of behavior modification.

1. All dogs want a "job". No, modeling would not fit the bill (although she's pretty enough to be one) and no, I wouldn't be able to earn a living off of her efforts. Rather, they need a daily routine in which they focus on following their leader and being part of the pack. So, we started walking daily and to my happiness, she leash-trained quickly.

2. All dogs want "boundaries". She was not sleeping at night (I can assume a behavior leftover from nights as a stray) at the foot of my bed and I would wake up to toilet paper strewn throughout the room, magazines shredded and Christmas ornaments pulled off the tree and eaten. So, we began crating her at night. The crate became her den (her safe place) so she could relax and rest. And, this proved to be the core issue with Beignet's behavior. Not sleeping at night made her wild during the day! As soon as she began sleeping safely... that nervous energy that she'd exhausted on chewing, destruction and running around in circles slowed down considerably.

3. All dogs want "discipline". Not a heavy hand when they do something wrong - rather a set of rules to follow and be rewarded. Feeding time was tough at first because my pit sits and waits, but Beignet wasn't picking up on it. Cory fixed it in one 30 second session (still don't know what he did, but I'm glad he did it!). Now both dogs sit/wait until I release them to eat. Other routines include walks, potty breaks, snuggle time, play time with each other, chew on their bones time, and more.

Yes, I still coo over how pretty she is and kiss her and hug on her way more than I should. But, overall, we've settled into a nice routine. We still have the occasional destruction (recently she opened a cardboard case of beer, punctured a can and drank it as it was spraying all over the kitchen), but for the most part - our home is once again a peaceful, enjoyable place to be.

Why Brown Dog? Why now? Why National?

2011-06-15T06:06:00.000-07:00

Good morning and welcome to Brown Dog Foundation's first blog! I had an interesting conversation yesterday about our organization's vision and mission. And, since this is about the ten-thousandth time I've had this conversation, I decided to start a blog - in hopes of helping everyone around me understand why I am so very passionate about taking Brown Dog Foundation's program national rather than keeping it local to Nashville only. And, this also helps others understand why it's so important for us to maintain the integrity of the original mission rather than change it to meet any single, major donor's desire.

First, one has to understand where I came from. I grew up in a small, closely-knit community in the North, the middle child in a fairly large family. My parents were devoted to us kids, they let us have a family dog (who outlived most pampered pooches in today's world), but we were taught that there is a big difference between "needs" and "wants". Pets are a "want". And, you don't get the "wants" unless you can afford them.

My career background is business - specifically business growth, business analysis, process automation and marketing. In order to seek funding for any idea - for profit or not - one must be able to substantiate the "need" and identify a repeatable model that can be executed with or without the creator.

Next, you need to understand my journey toward pet guardianship as an adult. In my twenties - I was single and loving it. Nary a care in the world... no time for the burdens of a pet. In my thirties - I bought my first house and decided a chocolate labrador would be the perfect accessory. So, I found a 4.5 year old male thru a Rescue site in Tennessee (my first exposure to "Rescue Groups"). The experience was fabulous! But, Chip had just had a cancerous tumor removed (he was surrendered to the local pound by his owners because they couldn't afford treatment) - so I knew I was walking into a landmine.

For several years I was able to provide for Chip - a lifestyle better than most children enjoy to be exact. However, when he needed me most, I couldn't provide - a situation I never expected to be in. I had just lost my job at the start of one of our country's worst economic recessions with NO prospects on the horizon. Paying for chemotherapy treatment was not an option. And, so, with God's help, love and guidance, I made the decision to end his suffering when it was time.

So... why serve as a resource for working class and temporarily disadvantaged responsible pet owners rather than save all the animals? It's really a simple answer - there are several much larger organizations whose mission it is to "save them all". And, yet there is still never enough money left over to help the working class and/or the unemployed. Brown Dog receives 68 application requests per month, every month that qualify for our program. No other agency focuses on the families that we do.

Why now? Because our country is in the throws of the worst financial and economic downturn we've ever experienced, and it doesn't appear to be getting better anytime soon. The job-market is changing and there is a segment of our population who will never earn again what they once did because their job has been outsourced to another country or eliminated by a computer. Some areas of our country are experiencing 20%+ unemployment rates - while others hover at 10%. Both are bad! Families who have always worked to earn their living, now don't - not because they don't want to... because there are no jobs. And, since the number of applications for our help have doubled in the past four years, I can only assume it will continue to get worse.

So... why national and not local where you could offer more services to more people and attract a larger local following? Again, it seems simple to me - we have a repeatable process today that has quite low overhead to execute. And, we receive 68 qualified application requests every month from families with stories just like mine, who are turned away from the larger agencies because of lack of funding - they have to save the surrendered animal first because that is their mission. A localized agency will only help the 30 or so that we receive in TN and then will begin offering more services and programs to use up the excess cash. So I ask... Why not help everyone, anywhere, anytime?

Just this morning, I read a woman's story... her husband has left, she has a young daughter and one dog. She earns a modest income that provides sufficiently for her and her family, including their pet. The dog needs surgery to correct a dislocated disc in his neck/back. The cost - $2,000. She will likely end up euthanizing their only source of comfort in the midst of an already difficult situation. She lives in Missouri. Sadly, because we do not have sufficient national funding, we can't help her.

If you've read this entire blog, you are feeling one of two ways - motivated to get involved OR completely depressed at the huge undertaking of solving this recurring and rapidly growing problem. Either way - we need you! Help us tell our story. Encourage your friends, family and co-workers to follow our blog. Donate when you can, encourage others to donate, volunteer, DO something!

In this blog, we plan to explore in more detail what we've learned over the past 5 years from collecting the data we have. But, we will also deal with many pet-related issues - from alternative treatment options to dietary advice to help understanding the need and how we can best address it. Everyone on our boards will contribute.

Stay tuned... and I hope you get some big, wet puppy kisses today!