Grete getting some TLC at Westgate from Hannah Evans, CVT.

By Meredeth Barzen

Grete (pronounced “Greta”) the black lab was hanging out in her usual spot on a pillow in the back hall on a perfectly normal Tuesday in February. Mom was at work, Dad was in Europe on a business trip, and the two girls were at school and Grandma’s house. Like so many retrievers, Grete can be rambunctious and sweet, lively and calm, depending on the moment. “We’ve consistently said she’s 9 years old going on 9 months,” says Grete’s owner, Matt Augustson. When she’s calm, Grete likes to strategically place herself precisely in the center of the family’s activities for a nap. During her livelier moments, Grete likes to show off her tennis-ball-chasing skills in the big yard behind Matt and Jen Augustson’s Edina home. And when someone comes to the door, “Look out,” Matt says. “Barking, jumping … all of the bad habits that dog owners struggle with, and we are no exception. But it’s just who she is. It’s never violent, aggressive or scary—just her way of saying ’hello.’”

But Grete’s mostly a mellow dog, so 2:40 in the afternoon was probably right in the middle of nap time for her that Tuesday, as her family went about their daily business out in the world.

Then, BOOM.

“As far as we can tell from the Edina Fire Chief, a gas leak caused by a utility contractor laying cable in the neighborhood caused natural gas to leak into our house via the sewer line,” Matt says. “From there, it found an ignition source—most likely the water heater or furnace—and caused an explosion.” Grete was the only one at home. She must have been launched out of the house by the force of the explosion, most likely straight up.” The house was a total loss. Grete was the only thing that remained intact.

A person Matt describes as a “Good Samaritan” followed the shaken dog across 50^th Street and through the neighborhoods for a half-mile, then loaded her into her car at 44^th Street and Wooddale Avenue and brought Grete to Westgate Pet Clinic, where Dr. Ben Porter treated her injuries—which were miraculously minor, considering she had just survived a massive gas explosion. “Grete was very nervous immediately after the explosion,” Dr. Porter says. “I suspect that she was not able to hear anything. Since the Augustsons were already clients, we were able to quickly contact them so they knew her location and that she had survived. [Grete] walked into the clinic, and was not afraid or nervous at that time. She allowed our staff to examine her thoroughly, finding surprisingly no broken bones, no lacerations. Many dogs would be fearful after such a terrifying event—her gentle personality and ability to roll with the punches is probably very typical for a Labrador Retriever.”

But even though she escaped major injuries, Grete was a little worse for wear. Dr. Porter says her hair was singed “and she smelled like a campfire times 10. Burns were immediately evident on the pads of her feet, and over the next four days, burns because evident around her nose, muzzle and chin … Her eyelids were damaged from the explosion and have been red and uncomfortable and slow to improve.” Luckily, Grete’s burns were superficial, and most responded to topical treatment and improved over the next five days.

Dr. Porter says the only likely long-term damage to the resilient lab is to her tear glands—she’ll need eye medication for a while—and a couple of burn scars will mean she’ll need to wear sunscreen on the bridge of her nose when she’s out in the sun.

When the Augustsons first saw Grete after the accident, though, Matt describes her appearance as “shocking.” “She looked like a chocolate lab instead of a black lab,” he says. “Her fur was singed around her head and shoulders. She had open sores on three of four paws and her ear. She limped and wobbled along. Her eyes were red and cloudy. The Augustsons’ two daughters, ages five and two, were happy to see their dog, “but it was hard for them because she didn’t look the same,” Jen says.

But things are looking up for Grete and her family. As of last Monday, she no longer needs daily treatments at Westgate. The family is moving into a town house this week; “We can’t wait to get settled again,” Jen says. And members of the Twin Cities pet community are helping out on that front, with an outpouring of support and donations. Sarah Beth Photography, Bone Adventure and Pampered Pooch Playground all gave the Augustsons gift certificates to their businesses. Pampered Pooch also set the family up with a dog bed and some toys and treats to replace what the Augustsons lost in the explosion. Fetch Delivers donated a travel crate, treats and bones; Solid Gold gave a bag of food and Tracie Jacobson of Animal Humane Society sent over a gift certificate to Chuck & Don’s Pet Food Outlet. And to help Matt and Jen let go of some stress, Omni Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork is donating massages.

“I cannot believe the amount of support and generosity [shown by] our family, friends and the community,” Matt said. “This is stunning. We cannot express enough how much Grete means to us or how the community has rallied around her and us.” And to his “thank you” list doesn’t stop there. “We can’t thank that Good Samaritan enough. We can’t thank the great vets, techs and staff at Westgate enough—they have adopted Grete as their special canine, and have reached out with concern for our family as well. Dr Porter has been especially thoughtful. It has been amazing watching the care Grete has received and the compassion we have been shown.”

At the end of the day, the fact that the Augustson family—Mom, Dad, kids and dog—are all safe and sound is all anyone could ask for. Grete’s miraculous survival will remain a mystery. “We’ll never really know for sure how she got out of the house, debris, and fire alive,” Matt says. But that doesn’t matter. “She’s our wonder dog!” Jen says. “We’re thinking about getting her a red cape.”

By Meredeth Barzen

Lisa Sellman of Aloha Pet Care with Sadie the Wonderdoodle.

When Lisa Sellman of Aloha Pet Care & Dog Training invited us to participate in her TTouch and Animal Communication class last month, we were excited about the TTouch part (any method of lowering stress in the Wonderdoodle household would be accepted wholeheartedly) and excited/nervous for the Animal Communication part (what if Sadie started whining that we don’t give her enough treats or throw the ball often enough?) But by the end of the night, we were both comfortable with the TTouch techniques, and confident that our dog really did love us.

Sidewalk Dog, Sadie the Wonderdoodle, and about 15 other dogs and their people gathered at Auntie Ruth’s Animal Care & Wellness Center in Minnetonka for the class, which started with Lisa guiding us through a handful of “touches”—or light, acupressure-like massage techniques—that we could use to lower stress in both our dogs and ourselves and to bond with our four-legged pals.

“These techniques are for whenever your dog is stressed—the vet’s office, the groomer’s, fireworks, thunderstorms,” Lisa explained, while rattling off a list of Sadie’s worst nightmare situations. “They’re a way to be in the moment, and to give our dogs the gift of being present.”

Then, we practiced those techniques on our own pups and our neighbors’ dogs as Lisa came around the circle and worked with each one of us individually. Sadie the Wonderdoodle, you’ll be curious to know, carries tension in her shoulders, just like her mom. Car rides are her Achilles heel—she got sick on the drive out to Minnetonka—so Lisa showed us some calming muzzle touches for the future.

Susan works on her TTouch skills with her dog, Jeri.

While we were working on our TTouch skills, Animal Communicator Ilga Cimbulis held short, individual sessions in a corner of the room. With all the misconceptions that abound about animal communication, we were interested to see what a session entailed. Ilga, with a  calm, easy manner, concentrated on Sadie (who was busy trying to snag a cookie from the refreshments table behind us) for a few seconds, then announced, “She’s telling me she’s your star, that she’s known or recognized.” Sounds like a certain Wonderdoodle has been reading too much SidewalkDog.com.

Ilga went on to discuss Sadie’s willingness to be out in the world, to help people. She said she had a healing nature about her and that she could be a therapy dog if we wanted to pursue it. But most importantly, she said we had done a good job; that Sadie was well-mannered and happy. Of course we know that Sadie loves us when she climbs up on our knees and kisses our ears, but the effect of someone actually telling you that your dog likes you cannot be underestimated.

*   *   *   *   *

If you’d like to hear what your dog thinks of you (and to learn some massage techniques that might swing her affection more in your favor), Lisa and Ilga have another class coming up February 21—you can find details here.

Or, if you’re looking for more rustic relaxation for you and your pooch, Lisa also holds TTouch classes at the always-dog-friendly Gunflint Lodge’s Dog Lovers’ Weekends. The next one is March 18-21—find more details here.  And, as a special treat for Sidewalk Dog readers, Lisa has seven $100-off coupons for Gunflint Lodge (one per cabin) to give away to the first seven readers to e-mail her at Lisa@alohapetcare.us with their addresses.

Human meds can poison pets.

Now that holiday pet dangers have passed, it’s important to stay vigilant—many of the medications in your house that are good for people can give doggies an upset stomach, or worse. At Sidewalk Dog, we’re extra cautious—original Sidewalk Dog Luc once got into some human meds that luckily didn’t do much more than make him a bit sleepy. That’s why we were glad to see this list of human medications that are poisonous to pets from Justine Lee, DVM, DACVECC, associate director of veterinary services at Pet Poison Helpline. As always, if you think your dog has been sniffing around in your medicine cabinet, call Pet Poison Helpline right away at 800.213.6680.

Top 10 Human Medications Poisonous To Pets

1. NSAIDs (e.g. Advil, Aleve and Motrin)

Topping our Top 10 list are common household medications called non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), which include common names such as ibuprofen (e.g., Advil and some types of Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve). While these medications are safe for people, even one or two pills can cause serious harm to a pet. Dogs, cats, birds and other small mammals (ferrets, gerbils and hamsters) may develop serious stomach and intestinal ulcers as well as kidney failure.

2. Acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol)

When it comes to pain medications, acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) is certainly popular. Even though this drug is very safe, even for children, this is not true for pets—especially cats. One regular strength tablet of acetaminophen may cause damage to a cat’s red blood cells, limiting their ability to carry oxygen. In dogs, acetaminophen leads to liver failure and, in large doses, red blood cell damage.

3. Antidepressants (e.g. Effexor, Cymbalta, Prozac, Lexapro)

While these antidepressant drugs are occasionally used in pets, overdoses can lead to serious neurological problems such as sedation, incoordination, tremors and seizures. Some antidepressants also have a stimulant effect leading to a dangerously elevated heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature. Pets, especially cats, seem to enjoy the taste of Effexor and often eat the entire pill. Unfortunately, just one pill can cause serious poisoning.

4. ADD/ADHD medications (e.g. Concerta, Adderall, Ritalin)

Medications used to treat Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder contain potent stimulants such as amphetamines and methylphenidate. Even minimal ingestions of these medications by pets can cause life-threatening tremors, seizures, elevated body temperatures and heart problems.

5. Benzodiazepines and sleep aids (e.g. Xanax, Klonopin, Ambien, Lunesta)

These medications are designed to reduce anxiety and help people sleep better. However, in pets, they may have the opposite effect. About half of the dogs who ingest sleep aids become agitated instead of sedate. In addition, these drugs may cause severe lethargy, incoordination (including walking “drunk”), and slowed breathing in pets. In cats, some forms of benzodiazepines can cause liver failure when ingested.

6. Birth control (e.g. estrogen, estradiol, progesterone)

Birth control pills often come in packages that dogs find irresistible. Thankfully, small ingestions of these medications typically do not cause trouble. However, large ingestions of estrogen and estradiol can cause bone marrow suppression, particularly in birds. Additionally, female pets that are intact (not spayed), are at an increased risk of side effects from estrogen poisoning.

7. ACE Inhibitors (e.g. Zestril, Altace)

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (or “ACE”) inhibitors are commonly used to treat high blood pressure in people and, occasionally, pets. Though overdoses can cause low blood pressure, dizziness and weakness, this category of medication is typically quite safe. Pets ingesting small amounts of this medication can potentially be monitored at home, unless they have kidney failure or heart disease. All heart medications should be kept out of reach of pets.

8. Beta-blockers (e.g. Tenormin, Toprol, Coreg)

Beta-blockers are also used to treat high blood pressure but, unlike the ACE inhibitor, small ingestions of these drugs may cause serious poisoning in pets. Overdoses can cause life-threatening decreases in blood pressure and a very slow heart rate.

9. Thyroid hormones (e.g. Armour desiccated thyroid, Synthroid)

Pets — especially dogs — get underactive thyroids too. Interestingly, the dose of thyroid hormone needed to treat dogs is much higher than a person’s dose. Therefore, if dogs accidentally get into thyroid hormones at home, it rarely results in problems. However, large acute overdoses in cats and dogs can cause muscle tremors, nervousness, panting, a rapid heart rate and aggression.

10. Cholesterol lowering agents (e.g. Lipitor, Zocor, Crestor)

These popular medications, often called “statins,” are commonly used in the United States. While pets do not typically get high cholesterol, they may still get into the pill bottle. Thankfully, most “statin” ingestions only cause mild vomiting or diarrhea. Serious side effects from these drugs come with long-term use, not one-time ingestions.

There’s a heck of a lot going on in the pet industry, perhaps most especially right here in the Twin Cities. (Just check all the activity on our Facebook Page!) This makes us here at Sidewalk Dog very happy, since we’re all about connections: connecting you, our dear readers, with pet-related and dog-friendly businesses and nonprofits, connecting those same businesses and nonprofits with each other, and so on.

Another way local pet-related businesses and nonprofits specifically are connecting is through a networking group called PetPAC (a.k.a. “Pet Professionals and Companies”). The following is a little Q and A with PetPAC founding member Lynne Willeke of Bark Busters:

When did PetPAC start?
PetPAC was founded in 2007.

Who started PetPAC and why?
Sonja Tengdin of ScoopyPoo, Jay Cowan of Fetch Delivers and I started meeting one-on-one to talk about ways we could partner to market our businesses through joint projects. It quickly became apparent we could do even more if the three of us met together. Soon after we were joined by Cathy Menard of The Urban Dog and Amy Rosenthal (formerly) of the Animal Humane Society. The five of us then founded PetPAC.

What is PetPAC’s mission?
Our mission is to grow our individual businesses through networking, to promote and support other member businesses, to promote and support responsible pet ownership and to provide the public with useful information.

What are some of PetPAC’s goals?
Our short-term goals include demonstrating professionalism and leadership within the pet industry and supporting and promoting member businesses through networking. Longer term, we plan to share knowledge with the public and to become the go-to professional association for anything pet-related.

How has PetPAC changed since it started?
Originally, someone that owned or operated a pet-related business needed to submit an application and get approval from the PetPAC membership committee prior to attending a PetPAC meeting. Now PetPAC welcomes guests at our meetings without any prior approval. There remains an application form and a reviewal process for those who wish to become PetPAC members, but anyone is welcome to attend indefinitely as a guest.

If someone wants to join PetPAC, who should they contact?
They can contact me at minneapolisnorth@barkbusters.com or at 763.228.3649.

Anything else you’d like to add?
I’d just like to reiterate that anyone who owns or operates a pet-related business is welcome to attend any PetPAC meeting as a guest. Our next meeting is from 8:30-10 a.m. on January 21, 2010 at Minnesota Grille in Byerly’s St. Louis Park.

Thanks, Lynne! Now, if you still need to pick up a holiday gift for the dog lover in your life, we encourage you to take advantage of the following special offers from PetPAC members:

Bark Busters: $50 off a customized in-home training package (includes all levels). Valid in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area.  Limit one $50 offer per customer. More info.

Forever Lawn: $30 off a K9 Potty, a self-enclosed dog potty featuring antimicrobial K9Grass. Perfect for apartments, condominiums, balconies, boats, etc. More info.

Pure Spirit (training, behavior, animal communication): 10% off a 5-session private, in-home training package or $10 off an animal communication consultation. More info.

Talk2theAnimals (animal communication): Talk2theAnimals is running specials on calendars, photo books and more. Visit their Web site for more details, but hurry! Discount codes expire 12/24/09. More info.

By Meredeth Barzen

You asked for it; you got it. Our inaugural roundup of Twin Cities celebs and their furry friends was so much fun, Sidewalk Dog couldn’t resist sniffing out another pack of famous Minnesotans and the four-leggeds that make them say “Who’s my fruffy wittle fuzzy bear?” This time, we’ve found writers, radio personalities, TV gurus, musicians and fashion designers who go nuts for their mutts. So without further ado …

Dan Murphy and Lily

Dan Murphy (musician, Soul Asylum and Golden Smog) and wife Sarah Murphy (owner, Grapefruit Moon Gallery**)
Name: Lily Belle Murphy
Nicknames: Fusspot, Lily Ocho Stinko, Puppy Bear, the Cananitor, The L’il Lebowski, Minnie Ripperton, Dog Stevens, The Aggressitor, Jack Rabbit Slim, Meerkat, The Hot Water Bottle, Buck Snort, and countless others …
Breed: We just found out that she is a Chiweenie (Chihuahua/Dachshund). When we adopted her, we just knew she was a beauty.
Age: Approximately 1 1/2?
Favorite toy: The happy hippo, a little squeak toy we bought the day we took her home from her shelter that has been torn apart and sewn back together more times than we can count. No matter how many other toys she plays with and destroys, she always comes back to the happy hippo.
Favorite treats: Carrots, rice, cheese, and freeze-dried sweet potatoes
Favorite places to hang out: A warm lap, under the covers, her favorite dog pillow, and the passenger side in our car
Favorite dog-friendly restaurant: Nick and Eddie, especially on a sunny day after she’s just played hard at Loring Park. Doug Anderson and the staff there were initially friendlier to her than she was to them, so it like many things, is still a work in progress!
Favorite dog-friendly coffee shop: Anodyne Coffeehouse

Sarah Murphy and Lily

Favorite dog-friendly store: Guse Hardware at 46th & Bryant; she and Chloe, the new mascot, are becoming fast friends.
Favorite pet store: Urbanimal
Favorite dog-friendly vacation: She’s such a homebody, so I’d say sitting on our porch on a warm day. We adopted her in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in January of 2009, so in many ways I would bet she still considers Florida her actual home and Minneapolis her summer getaway. She was a runaway and we got her at a tiny little animal shelter that removed her from a high-kill shelter in Miami. She spent three months on the streets before the first shelter took her and another two months at the shelter where we met her. About 10 minutes into the initial visit, she picked us as her doggie parents. So vacations are not in her immediate plans as she seems so delighted to finally have landed a home. She is a nester at this point and loves to go on walks, particularly when the whole family is present and accounted for.
Best trick: No longer being scared of every stranger/noise/car that comes by. All thanks to Cele Danner (the miracle worker) at The Canine Coach. Also, she rip-snorts when she’s happy and runs “hot laps” around our dining room table when she feels like letting off a little steam. She can do a really cute prairie dog/meerkat hind leg dance that is adorable.
Best friend: Nigel, the Chihuahua; he still plays hard-to-get, but he’s coming around. Also my son Kelly’s mixed-breed female 2-year-old, Lucky
Nemesis: Bike riders, tall men, sunglasses and baby prams ….
Favorite naughty behavior/bad habit: Barking at the mail carrier, jumping on the dining room table looking for crumbs, attacking my face with kisses
Favorite way to get attention/treats: Jumping into my lap as I try to work, or even into my laptop, doing hind-leg stands at your knee and going onto her favorite leopard-print lucky treat pillow, looking at you with a cocked head and staring you down until the treats come out
Sleeps on: Bed
Be honest: Do you ever use baby talk when speaking to your dog? Often, but she’s too smart to fall for that most of the time. My doggy dialect revolves around her being a Southern Belle, so I use a butchered French Canadian meets Cajan New Orleans Style drek that usually starts with “L’il belle … ”
Anything else we should know about your dog? She’s a wonder. The most nervous, shy, and troubled puppy in the world when we adopted her, she has become the most friendly, loving friend anyone could ever hope to have. She’s sweet with a good heart and really wants to be happy and finally is learning how.
What are you up to these days? Dan: Busy with shows including our annual First Avenue holiday engagement Friday, December 4. Sarah and Lily and I are spending our second winter in the sunny, warm, small-dog-friendly confines of Southern Florida. Sarah: Working with the Animal Rights Coalition to raise awareness of the inhumane dog breeding that is continuing at puppy mills and all the wonderful animals (like Lily) who have been abandoned or lost and are waiting at local shelters for a loving home!

**Both Sarah and Dan run Grapefruit Moon Gallery, an online art gallery that specializes in American Illustration and Pin-up original paintings and artwork.

Erdrich's Makate Ma'ingan (Maki for short).

Louise Erdrich (novelist, owner—Birchbark Books)
Name: Makate Ma’ingan (Ojibwe for “Black Wolf”)
Nickname: Maki
Breed: Belgium Shepherd
Age: 4
Favorite toy: Punctured soccer balls
Favorite treats: Peanut butter toast and cat food
Favorite place to hang out: On the couch, watching his bird feeder and the birds he protects
Favorite dog park: Poorly socialized; Maki doesn’t do dog parks very well. Owner also poorly socialized.
Favorite dog-friendly restaurant: Kenwood Cafe [next door to Birchbark Books]. Poorly socialized owner sits outdoors with Maki.
Favorite dog-friendly coffee shop: Again, Kenwood Cafe. Maki enjoys a latte now and then to calm down.
Favorite dog-friendly store: Birchbark Books
Favorite book: Anything by Temple Grandin or Mary Ludington
Favorite pet store: Chuck and Don’s Pet Food Outlet

Novelist Louise Erdrich

Favorite dog-friendly vacation: Lake of the Woods, where Maki roams free and fierce.
Best trick: Looking fearsome
Best friend: Rowdy, the protector—the real ferocious canine in the house
Nemesis: The neighbor’s taunting cat who sits under Maki’s birdfeeder
Most naughty behavior/worst bad habit: Lunging in sick lust at female dogs
Favorite way to get attention/treats: Sitting and staring fixedly at the treats and projecting an air of injured nobility
Sleeps on: Again, the couch as long as nobody is looking
Be honest: Do you ever use baby talk when speaking to your dog? Are you tiddin’?
Anything else we should know about your dog? He reads in secret and recommends books for his owner’s bookstore
What are you up to these days? Birchbark Books, a nice stop for people and dogs who walk the lake.

Winstead with Edie and Buddy.

Lizz Winstead (comedian, co-creator—The Daily Show)
Names: Edie and Buddy
Nicknames: I call Edie ‘Sweedy’  ‘Piaf’ or sometimes ‘Diarrhedie.’ Bud can be ‘Budward, handsome man.’
Breed: Both mutts. Edie is a Collie/Shepherd mix and Buddy is Corgi/Spaniel.
Ages: Edie, 9; Buddy, 6
Favorite toy: Anything that’s not a toy! Like a throw pillow. Edie carries around a stuffed daisy in her mouth and it’s so cute. Buddy’s favorite toy is actually my underwear.
Favorite treats: See: Underwear
Favorite place to hang out: Next to me on the couch—next to me wherever I am
Favorite dog-friendly vacation: The Hamptons
Best trick: Edie can high-five
Best friends: Each other
Nemesis: The vacuum cleaner
Favorite naughty behavior/bad habit: Edie is a poop-eater. Buddy, the boy, doesn’t lift his leg when he pees and Edie, the girl, does. I think that’s funny.
Favorite way to get attention/treats: Buddy will just jump in your lap; Edie will hump your leg.
Sleeps: In bed with me
Be honest: Do you ever use baby talk when speaking to your dogs? Yes
Anything else we should know about your dog? They are both rescued. I adopted Buddy in Minnesota!
What are you up to these days? I’m going to be at the Parkway theater for an exciting New Year’s Eve spectacular called “What the F#ck Just Happened?” Tickets and info here.

Teiken's Pellet

Joy Teiken (designer and owner, Joynoelle)
Name: Pellet
Nickname: Pelly
Breed: Little mutt
Age: 16 to 18; we don’t know since I found her
Favorite toy: Her cat, Sadi
Favorite treats: Pup-Peroni
Favorite place to hang out: In her dog bed or at Grandma Harriet’s house
Favorite dog park: Too old to go to the dog park
Favorite dog-friendly restaurant: Too old to go anywhere
Favorite dog-friendly store: My boutique

Designer Joy Teiken

Favorite pet store: Southside Farm Store
Favorite dog-friendly vacation: Cabin time at Eagle Lake
Best trick: Sleeping
Best friend: My husband, Craig
Nemesis: Khea the cat
Favorite naughty behavior/bad habit: Ignoring us on her walks; she walks without a leash and sometimes she takes herself for a walk.
Favorite way to get attention/treats: Barks
Sleeps on: Bed, couch, floor, dog bed—really anywhere she wants to
Be honest: Do you ever use baby talk when speaking to your dog? We used to, but now she’s deaf and we just give her lots of kisses.
Anything else we should know about your dog? She has a sad turned happy story. I found her by the side of the road in southern Minnesota and she had pellets from a bb gun in her head and back. (That’s why her name is Pellet.) That was 11 years ago … she’s had a great life ever since.  She’s almost deaf and blind, but she’s still happy.
What are you up to these days? I’m working on a bridal line that will be available online this winter.

Andra Suchay's Lucy

Andra Suchy (singer, guest—A Prairie Home Companion) and husband, Andrew Pierzina
Name: Lucy
Nicknames: Mit Mit, Rucine, Rucy
Breed: Boxer mix
Age: 7
Favorite toy: Bumblebee, a catnip cat toy, and tennis balls
Favorite treats: Real bones with peanut butter inside and carrots
Favorite place to hang out: On the couch or in our bed; outside if it’s nice weather
Favorite dog park: The Suchy farm, owned by Andra’s parents, near Mandan, North Dakota
Favorite pet store: Urbanimal
Favorite dog-friendly vacation: Going to the Suchy Farm

Andra and Andrew

Best trick: Running on the treadmill. She runs several times a week for 30 minutes at a time.  She will also sit, lay down, and stay for a treat with hand signals until I say ‘OK.’
Best friend: Our late Weimeraner, Sophia. Our cat, Lester. They play together and he will grab her face and lick her eyes. They love each other. Also, her cousins Willie the cow dog and Bjork the pug at the farm.
Nemesis: The lake. She can’t stay out of it. She is VERY obsessed with biting the water. She also hates the rain.
Favorite naughty behavior/bad habit: She sometimes doesn’t play well with others …
Favorite way to get attention/treats: She will sit very, very close to you and make a very loud sighing, breathing sound. We say she swallowed a bullsnake. Or, she will jump her front feet down onto the ground and bark until you play with her.
Sleeps on: Bed
Be honest: Do you ever use baby talk when speaking to your dog? Almost always
Anything else we should know about your dog? She loves kids, and gets really excited when we have company. She loves people in general.
What are you up to these days? Andrew and I are both going to be performing guests on the A Prairie Home Companion 2010 Western Caribbean Cruise in March.

Brian Lambert (writer, blogger, talk radio host)
Name: Ernie. She’s a girl. But every animal we ever bring home—lizards, birds—we call Ernie, (for Cubs great Ernie Banks) so we don’t get confused.
Nicknames: The Living Rug, Rugball
Breed: Cocker Spaniel/Bichon Frisee … we think. White, anyway.
Age: 14
Favorite toy: Has always been annoyed by or afraid of toys, especially after that mechanical rubber mouse episode
Favorite treats: Anything that says “bacon” on the package
Favorite place to hang out: An ottoman, on a gold quilted blanket, looking out the front window like a damned queen
Favorite dog park: The neighbor’s back yard
Favorite dog-friendly restaurant: I’d say Manny’s Steakhouse, but I’d be lying. The closest she gets to a restaurant is the bag of bones I tote home from Famous Dave’s.
Favorite dog-friendly coffee shop: The Starbucks at 50th & France in Edina … tied to a sign post
Favorite dog-friendly store: PetSmart, St. Louis Park
Favorite pet store: Ditto, especially the packaged bacon treats aisle
Favorite dog-friendly vacation: The cabin, in northern Wisconsin. 11 acres of woods, deer and ticks
Best trick: Trick? She whines for bacon. Is that a trick?
Best friend: Whoever is slipping her people food under the table
Nemesis: Other than the mechanical mouse, any dog that gets to the bacon before her. Oh, and any squirrel.
Favorite naughty behavior/bad habit: Licking plates in the dishwasher
Favorite way to get attention/treats: Whining, scratching at doors, “herding” humans toward the bacon treats in the pantry
Sleeps on: My side of the bed … and on my legs
Be honest: Do you ever use baby talk when speaking to your dog? No. I save that for my 28-year-old.
Anything else we should know about your dog? If you put a chipmunk in a rain pipe, Ernie will bark at it for four hours.

Hip-hop artist Sims

Sims (hip-hop artist, Doomtree)
Names: Lola, Superbowl Champion
Nicknames: Lola, Champ
Breeds: Pit Bull
Ages: 11, 3
Favorite toys: Tennis ball, rubber football tied to a rope for tug-of-war
Favorite treat: Meat. Anything but vegetables, although the look of betrayal on their faces when given a vegetable is pretty amazing, so that’s my favorite treat to give them.
Favorite place to hang out: Outside, anywhere we can play ball. And in the car.
Favorite dog-friendly restaurant: Muddy Waters
Favorite dog-friendly coffee shop: Muddy Waters
Favorite dog-friendly store: The Alt bike and board shop
Favorite pet store: Petco
Best trick: Sit
Best friend: Me
Nemesis: Brooms and thunder
Sleeps on bed, couch, dog bed, floor, or outside: Yes
Be honest: Do you ever use baby talk when speaking to your dog? No. But they get treated as if they were my kids … maybe that’s worse.

Jenkins' Helen

Kathie Jenkins (restaurant critic/food editor, St. Paul Pioneer Press)
Name: Helen
Nickname: Helly Belly
Breed: Bouvier
Age: 5
Favorite toy: A wool lamb
Favorite treats: Bananas and dried sweet potatoes
Favorite place to hang out: On the living room sofa
Favorite dog-friendly restaurant: Dairy Queen; she loves the cones but she doesn’t go overboard because she knows she has to watch her figure.
Favorite dog-friendly coffee shop: She doesn’t like coffee shops; she’d rather be at home lounging on the sofa and watching “The Dog Whisperer.”
Favorite dog-friendly store: She doesn’t like stores, either. She has fear of floors and most places are just too slippery for her.
Favorite pet store: Pet Junction
Favorite dog-friendly vacation: She’s a homebody
Best trick: Laying down on command
Best friend: Josie, a three-legged golden retriever that gives her a good run.
Nemesis: Fivel, an autistic German shepherd. She just won’t have anything to do with him.
Favorite naughty behavior/worst bad habit: Dripping water all over the entire kitchen floor every time she takes a drink
Favorite way to get attention/treats: Just looking like she’s about to chase a squirrel
Sleeps on: Couch
Be honest: Do you ever use baby talk when speaking to your dog? I call it ‘dog talk.’
Anything else we should know about your dog? She loves to have her teeth brushed. Every morning she comes out in the kitchen and doesn’t leave until I brush her teeth.

By Meredeth Barzen

If you asked a dog what its ultimate gift idea was, it would probably say “bacon.” But when it comes to dog owners, those flummoxed by the idea of picking the perfect present for the dog lover in their life need look no further than home. Minnesota is a breeding ground for great gift ideas, both practical and far from it, that any canine caregiver would be thrilled to find in their stocking come December. So get a jump on your holiday shopping and support local businesses by checking out a few of the less meat-inspired ideas below:

A Cosmo's Collar.

Cool Collars and Leashes Dogs can trot around town in style with collars and leashes from local companies like Bark + Biscuit, Cosmo’s Collars and Stunt Puppy.

The Tahoe line from Bark + Biscuit.

You might have trouble choosing just one fun design from Bark + Biscuit and Cosmo’s Collars, and Stunt Puppy’s stretchy, hands-free Stunt Runner™ leash is perfect for runners who like to take their dogs along.

Stunt Puppy's Stunt Runner™

Where to find it: Online at Bark + Biscuit, Cosmo’s Collars and Stunt Puppy and at local boutiques like Bone Adventure, Urbanimal, CorAzoN, Shoppe Local and Don’t Make Me Beg.

Mod-Dog's Scottie note card.

Breed-specific Note Cards by Mod-Dog Stylized silhouette prints of dozens of dog breeds make for some very cute note cards (the better to thank you with after you give the best gift.) Mod-Dog also makes wall prints from their designs, as well as chic ID tags and customized jewelry.

Where to find it: In St. Paul at Don’t Make Me Beg, online.

Available in Rolling in Grass, Daffodils, Saddle and Unscented.

Maggie’s Light Candles by Nelli Designs These hand-poured EcoSoya™ candles are a great way to honor a dearly departed doggie as a memorial, or to celebrate the pets who are still a part of our lives. Available  in 12.5 oz and 21 oz. A dollar of each local sale goes to Homeward Bound Dog Rescue.

Where to find it: Petunia’s, Bone Adventure, Ataz, Fresh Seasons Market, online.

Sarah's take on sweet Stella.

Portraits and Holiday Cards by Sarah Beth Photography The local legend in fresh, modern pet photography is offering holiday photo sessions and greeting cards this year—or, give a gift certificate in any amount and your giftee will have a lovely likeness of Fido’s face forever.

Where to find it: Online.

"Does this bandana make my butt look big?" bandana from The Dog Perk.

T-shirts and Bandanas by The Dog Perk For the dog lover who wants to wear his heart on his sleeve, The Dog Perk makes more than 40 different designs of canine-centric T-shirts and sweatshirts for two-leggeds and cheeky bandanas, blankets and biscuits for four-leggeds. Plus, they’re passionate about supporting local rescues, so your gift helps more than your reputation.

Where to find it: Online.

Pug pill case from Personalized Pooch.

Custom Gifts by Personalized Pooch Some people (Sidewalk Dog included) never get sick of looking at their mutt’s mug. Personalized Pooch will plaster it all over purses, pillows, plush blankets, pill cases, playing cards—you name it, they’ll Poochify it.**Special deal for Sidewalk Dog readers: Personalized Pooch is offering 10 percent off one item until December 5th. Just enter the code “SIDEWALKDOG” on the Web site when you order!

Where to find it: Online.

The Christmas capelette from BugDuds.

Cute Capes by BugDuds When Dorothy Grinolds’ miniature dachshund, Ladybug, got cold, she didn’t get mad—she got crafty. The result? Elegant little doggie capes that are warm and whimsical. Check out the Christmas capelette, more decorative than functional, but sure grab some “awww”s at the holiday party.

Where to find it: At the No Coast Craft-O-Rama, 12/4-12/5; online.

A doggie kimono by Wahssie.

Canine Couture by Wahssie The depth and breadth of these designer doggie duds is truly amazing, from sweatshirts to raincoats to Asian-inspired kimonos (we kid you not). Part of the sales benefit Underdog Rescue. And the best part? It’s all very reasonably priced.

Where to find it: Online.

A jacket by Grand Marais' Arrowhead Trading Co.

Winter Jackets by Arrowhead Trading Co. Designed and tested by “people who spend their days and nights [outdoors] in the north country,” these practical jackets are easy-fitting, comfy and warm. They can also withstand multiple washings without losing their shape.

Where to find it: Urbanimal, online.

Six of Marianiello's cubes.

Portraits and Art by Local Artists Present your pal with a Stray Dog Arts gift certificate and their pooch can pose for a painting by local artist Jessie Marianiello. Or, for a less expensive and more immediate art gift (i.e. last-minute stocking stuffer), grab one of the artist’s fun, dog-themed miniature “cube” pieces or greeting cards.

Oil pastel by Thornton.

Also check out Lintu Art’s Sarah Thornton of the famed “Dogs by the Lakes” poster series. For the holidays, Thornton’s offering a 10 x 10 portrait for just $125. She works with oil pastel, soft pastel or graphite, and each portrait includes a free 20-minute outdoor photo shoot. (Says Thornton, “The photo shoot can be used to capture the perfect pose for an additional gift or for creating Christmas cards or family memories.”) Gift certificates available.

Where to find it: Stray Dog Arts: Online, at Etsy, at CorAzoN and at her booth in Gaviidae Market every Friday 11/20-12/18, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Lintu Art: Online.

A pet reliquary by Lisa Havelin.

Pet Memorial Jewelry by Lisa Havelin For a friend who’s lost a dog around the holidays, a pet reliquary is a beautiful way to keep Spot close to the heart and alive in memory.

Where to find it: Online.

Klecko's new book.

Dog Treats by Local Bakeries Delight humans and hounds with gourmet goodies made from all natural, human-grade ingredients and lots of love. Luc, the original Sidewalk Dog, goes nuts for the beef jerky from Clyde’s K9 Cuisine (formerly Well Pet Foods). He’d also dig Jack & Dakota’s treats, which are made from organic ingredients and include such flavors as Apple & Peanut Butter, Chicken & Rosemary and Beef & Sage. And he’d be beyond impressed if the gift giver was also the gift maker (or baker). Check out local master baker/dog dad Klecko’s K-9 Nation Biscuit Book: Baking for Your Best Friend for ideas and inspiration.

Where to find it: Clyde’s K9 Cuisine: Online. Jack & Dakota: Online. K-9 Nation Biscuit Book: Baking for Your Best Friend: Barnes & Noble, online at Amazon and at Minnesota Historical Society Press.

Paper dolls by Hungry Dog Designs.

Paper Dolls by Hungry Dog Designs Charm both children and adults with these whimsical, handcrafted paper dolls. Inspired by artist Paula Fynboh’s love of color, Mexican folk art, and her Boston Terrier, each doll is handmade using decorative paper and recycled trinkets and includes a small envelope, note and magnet for display. Custom orders available.

Where to find it: Online and at local boutiques like CorAzoN, I Like You, Gallery 360 and Karma.

And when you’re truly stumped on what to get someone? You can’t go wrong with a gift certificate for a pet service—check out the Sidewalk Dog Directory for the top trainers, walkers, sitters, daycare providers, pet food deliverers and more—or a donation in your giftee’s name to a rescue or animal-related nonprofit like The Pet Project, Pets on Wheels, R.E.A.D. Dogs Minnesota or the new Minnesota Spay Neuter Assistance Program (MN SNAP). Because nothing makes the holidays warm and fuzzy like knowing you’ve helped pets in need.

By Meredeth Barzen

These days, with the economy in the doggy potty, many pet owners are conflicted because they want to provide good care for their dogs, but can’t afford basic vet services like spaying and neutering. That’s where MN SNAP comes in.

The Minnesota Spay Neuter Assistance Program (MN SNAP) provides low-cost spaying and neutering to animals from rescues, shelters and low-income families. The organization’s framework was set in place by Dr. Kim Culbertson, a local veterinarian, and is relying mostly on word-of-mouth right now to raise awareness of its services and the growing problem of pet overpopulation.

“Shelters and rescues are trying to do their part [to reduce pet overpopulation] by ensuring that most or all of their animals are sterilized prior to adoption,” says MN SNAP’s Jennifer Allen. “Many pet owners, especially in urban and rural areas, cannot afford spay/neuter surgery, do not have access to a veterinary clinic, or do not understand the consequences of unchecked reproduction by their sexually intact pets. Most rescues operate on a very lean budget and are burdened by the costs associated with spay and neuter, thus limiting the number of animals they can save. Affordable and accessible spay/neuter services are essential to stopping the flow of puppies and kittens being born into a world that won’t or can’t take care of them.”

Dr. Kim Culbertson, MN SNAP's veterinarian

As the only mobile spay/neuter clinic in Minnesota that specifically targets low-income households, MN SNAP has “been showered with an outpouring of support from the community,” Allen says. The young organization has worked with and served groups like Chuck & Don’s Pet Food Outlet, The Pet Project, Homeward Bound, Pet Haven, A Rotta Love Plus, Minnesota Boxer Rescue and Secondhand Hounds.

And the economic climate has made its services especially important. “More animals are being surrendered due to unexpected litters, people not being able to feed the animals  they have and general lack of income for animal care,” Allen says.

“We are always looking for angels to the animals,” Allen says. “We rely completely on community support; your donations of time, money or supplies, coupled with your love for companion animals, will save the lives of thousands of animals in Minnesota.” And, as the great and aptly named Bob Barker did for so many years on “The Price Is Right,” she closes with the classic line, “Please spay or neuter your pets!”

Yum!

Looking for something to do this weekend? Here’s an idea: Sample, shop and explore everything about home entertaining at “The Affair.” You’ll find multiple stages, luxury food, wine, chocolate, fashions for home and host, plus—and here’s where we fit in—fabulous ideas for holiday gift giving.

Sidewalk Dog is sharing booth 547 with a few especially charming pooches* and some of our beloved Directory members: The Canine Coach, bark+biscuit, Well Pet Foods, Bone Adventure, Stray Dog Arts, Pampered Pooch Playground and Sarah Beth Photography. Come see us for great holiday gift ideas for all the dog lovers in your life!

The event takes place this Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Purchase tickets in advance online or at Kowalski’s Markets, Panera Bread and Gaviidae Common. (Tickets are $25 in advance/$30 at the door.)

*Eloise the Mini Aussie, Cosi the French Bulldog and Toast the Rat Terrier will all be making appearances this weekend. Special thanks to their parents.

By Meredeth Barzen

Loyal Sidewalk Dog readers might have heard last summer that Luc, the original Sidewalk Dog, had some medical problems that we wouldn’t wish upon our worst enemy (and that Luc wouldn’t wish upon his—shadows of any kind.) Thanks to Dr. Kate Knutson and the truly wonderful people* at Pet Crossing Animal Hospital & Dental Clinic in Bloomington, Luc’s doing better. And since he’s out of the woods, we’d like to tell you a bit about our experience at Pet Crossing and the importance of proper dental care for your pup.

Luc getting cuddled post-op by Pet Crossing's Dr. Kate.

Long story short, Luc had such advanced dental disease that his food was getting into his nose and caused a chronic infection. Our loveable little lemon got pneumonia as a symptom of his problems, and suffice it to say that he was not a happy camper for some time. Enter Dr. Kate, as she’s known by her patients—co-owner of Pet Crossing, Dr. Kate is world-renowned for her skill in animal dentistry, and loved by her patients for her caring nature (she habitually refers to pets as “four-leggeds.”) She sits on the board of directors for American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and co-authored their dental guidelines. (Incidentally, AAHA’s site HealthyPet.com is a great resource for pet owners, with FAQs, articles on pet health and a database of AAHA-accredited clinics.) Dr. Kate worked her magic on Luc, and he emerged with 31 fewer teeth and a lot less pain.

Luc is an example of what can go wrong if you neglect your dog’s dental care (see “The Truth about Tooths” for more on this.) Just like in people, dental disease run rampant can lead to heart, lung and kidney disease. “For people and animals,” Dr. Kate says, “if you have a healthy mouth, you live longer.” But she adds that many veterinarians are less aware of the importance of animal dentistry than owners are. “The general population has been educated and moves quicker than the vets,” Dr. Kate says.

She says that your dog’s first dental exam should be done at its first visit to the vet as a puppy, and that they should be examined under anesthesia when they go in to be spayed or neutered. After that, your “four-legged” should have a yearly wellness exam with an awake examination, followed by exam under general anesthesia every year (your pet has to be sleeping during this exam because it would be a very stressful experience—for all parties involved—if he were awake.) Once your dog is sleeping, his teeth have to be charted, cleaned and x-rayed, followed by a treatment plan for continued dental health. And don’t forget that you have to keep brushing those teeth in between exams.

Though more clinics are doing dentistry these days, Dr. Kate says that it’s important to do your homework to find the best care. Pet Crossing’s Web site has a great list of questions you should ask your vet before you sign your dog up for a teeth cleaning.

Eliza, a Pet Crossing nurse, helps Luc wake up from his dental surgery.

You’ll notice that Pet Crossing can answer “yes” to all questions on this list—a veterinary assistant monitors teeth cleaning the whole time to make sure your pet’s OK, and as a special touch, someone will massage your dog beforehand to relax him and cuddle with him post-op (if your lap is unavailable for whatever reason). Dr. Kate says that anesthesia and surgery are much easier for a dog if it’s relaxed before and after the event. For those helicopter dog-parents among us, Pet Crossing has an open-door policy, where you can watch any procedure or surgery done on your dog.

And dogs aren’t the only ones in mind with Pet Crossing’s stress-melting environment: comfortable private waiting rooms (with coffee, tea, snacks and a comfy couch) and plenty of personal touches grace their state-of-the-art facilities. “It’s important for the dog’s health that it’s quiet and peaceful,” Dr. Kate says. “We want everyone to feel as comfortable as possible.” But she’s careful to point out that customers aren’t paying for the fancy touches—they’re paying for great care. And while that care isn’t cheap, pet owners have to be realistic about the cost of keeping their furry friends happy and healthy.

All Pet Crossing doctors are passionate about dental care, but each has a specialty. Dr. Steve Barghusen lends his expertise in opthamology, internal medicine and laser surgery, and Dr. Cheryl Roth works in pain management, and is one of only 17 certified pain practitioners of veterinary medicine in the U.S.

Pet Crossing stands apart from the crowd for more than just great medical care: The clinic works with Cornerstone (a local domestic abuse shelter) to take in animals from abusive households. It works with Animal Ark to find new homes for dogs and cats. Developmentally disabled adults from Partnership Resources Inc. are on staff to help with cleaning, laundry and other jobs. And there’s a general sense of peace, calm, and comfort at Pet Crossing (a cat named Prophet wanders the clinic, cuddling with patients and showing his support with some soothing purrs.)

Prophet the Pet Crossing Cat checks in with Luc.

Dr. Kate stresses the importance of having a primary care doctor for your pet, who sees them every year and is intimately familiar with your pet’s health, and can then refer you to specialists for special needs. Dr. Kate says that especially in a dog with special medical needs (and Luc is the poster-dog for that group), vets can get distracted by those issues instead of addressing the pet’s holistic care. “With human health care,” she says, “a rampant problem is that as people get older, they go to specialists who are good but don’t speak to each other. This happens with veterinary medicine, too.”

And even though animal dentistry is overlooked, Dr. Kate says, “All we can do is educate. There’s never shame cast over clients or other doctors.”

*Special thanks to Lisa, Eliza, Carrie, Nicole, Rachel, Bev, Trish, Jamie, Brittany, Vicki, Dr. Steve Barghusen and Dr. Cheryl Roth.

Attendees really got into the "spirit" of the event at last year's Monster Dash 5K-9.

By Meredeth Barzen

Looking for a fun way to celebrate Halloween with your dog? Team Ortho is holding its annual “Monster Dash” 5K-9 on the spookiest day of the year—this Saturday, October 31.

The 5K-9 is the dog- and costume-friendly (for people and their pets!) portion of the Monster Dash race, which also includes a half-marathon, a 10-mile race and a regular 5K race—more than 7,000 runners are expected to participate this year. The 5K-9 will take place around Lake Harriet, and for your noble exercising efforts, you’ll receive a long-sleeved tech shirt and a collar or leash from the event’s sponsor, Stunt Puppy. Sidewalk Dog will be enjoying the festivities from Stunt Puppy’s tent. Plus, Fetch Delivers will be there to refuel your dog with treats and free one-pound sample bags of Go! Natural Grain Free Endurance dog food (great for active dogs) and to hand out coupons for any food in the the Now!/Go! lines, which can be redeemed at any retailer. ScoopyPoo will take care of anything your dog—ahem—leaves behind, Bits of Love Pet Massage will be providing mini-massages for your four-legged athletes and Pampered Pooch Playground will be on hand to simply love up all the pups.

Registration is $47 for one adult and one dog. If you haven’t pre-registered, registration for the 5K-9 opens at 8:45 a.m. Saturday morning, and the race starts at 10:35 at the Lake Harriet Bandshell.

There will be three water/trick-or-treat stops along the way, and remember: There’s no shame in walking if you get tired—you can always blame it on your dog.

Here’s some important info from the pooch lovin’ people behind the race:

1. Race Guide: The entire guide can now be downloaded at www.teamortho.us. In the guide, you will find detailed schedules and start locations for runners, information on parking, great suggestions for spectators and where you can pick up awards for running and costumes. We encourage you to read this document.

2. Packet Pickup is Friday, October 30 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Please note that packet pickup has moved from Marathon Sports to the Minneapolis Convention Center. Time for packet pickup: 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. in Ballroom B. Please bring a valid ID and your confirmation card. If you didn’t receive a confirmation card yet, never fear; come to packet pickup with your photo ID and we’ll get your bib number for you. Note: There will be no packet pickup on race day for the Half Marathon and the 10 Mile.

3. Registration is still open for the 5K-9: Online registration (highly encouraged!) shuts down Wednesday night. You can register at packet pickup on Friday or on race day; registration fee will be $47.