Dogs are clearly welcome inside southwest Minneapolis' Marathon Sports.
Business: Marathon Sports
Neighborhood: Lynnhurst in Southwest Minneapolis
For you: Shoes, apparel, and accessories for runners and walkers, including Minnesota-based Stunt Puppy’s hands-free running leashes.
For dogs: Water bowl when the weather’s warm.
Share on FacebookBy Meredeth Barzen
It’s official: The season of the dog is upon us. That means the reemergence of swimming, running, walking, patio dining, ball-chasing, picnic-mooching and more in your dog’s life. And since we all get a little couch-potatoey during those cold winter months, we at Sidewalk Dog wondered, “Do dogs need tune-ups to get back into shape for summer?”
No one’s comparing your Shih Tzu to your Schwinn, but … OK, we are. Just like your favorite bike, Spot might need to have his wheels greased, so to speak, to get back into the summer spirit.
Pet Crossing's Dr. Cheryl Roth with two of her fur kids.
“After six long months of hibernating, a spring physical is an excellent idea,” says Dr. Cheryl Roth, a vet with Pet Crossing Animal Hospital & Dental Clinic who’s credentialed in pain management (and one of only a handful of vets in the country to hold this distinction, though the field of pain management is growing.) “Let your veterinarian know about any changes you noticed over the winter—weight gain/loss, energy/activity, appetite, behavior—these may be related to medical problems and not just a change in the seasons.”
Adds Betty Waalk of Twin Cities Animal Rehabilitation Clinic (TCARC), which works with post-surgical, injured, old, arthritic, and physically weak animals to help them gain or regain strength: “Depending on the level of activity during the winter, spring can make us all a little crazy to be out and overdoing things. Warm seasons tend to offer more opportunity for the average pet—outdoor wildlife, hunting, Frisbee, games of fetch, long walks with owners, and playtime in the dog park, to name a few.” TCARC, headed up by the lovely and talented Dr. Julia Tomlinson, worked with Original Sidewalk Dog Luc to strengthen his back legs.
Dr. Julia Tomlinson of Twin Cities Animal Rehab Clinic
Waalk advises that pets, just like their people, need to slowly work up to full, exuberant exercise after a winter of sluggishness (though TCARC does offer a winter exercise program to prevent that in the first place). “Canine exercise should include warm-up and cool-down periods,” Waalk says. “We generally recommend a 10-minute warm-up period of a walk or slow jog, and a five-minute cool-down walk after exercise is complete. This applies to all strenuous activities.”
And remember that swimming is a strenuous activity for your pooch, Waalk says—no matter how easy and free Fido looks while paddling after a stick. Slowly work your way into the activity, being careful to look for signs that your dog’s tired.
Dr. Roth, who was part of the team that took such compassionate care of Luc toward the end of his life, also cautions against a legion of potential summertime hazards, including heartworm. “’Heartworm season,’ as it’s known in the biz, is notoriously busy for northern U.S. vets for a reason,” Dr. Roth says. “Heartworm testing is best done at this time of year, approximately five to six months after the end of mosquitoes the year before. Heartworm is spread from one infected dog to another by mosquitoes, and treatment of heartworm positive dogs is painful, expensive, dangerous, and potentially deadly.”
Sidewalk Dog loves Minnesota-based Stunt Puppy's hands-free leashes. This duo is sporting the Stunt Runner™.
During the warm season, she runs into a greater number of “sports” injuries—ACL ruptures and sprains, for instance—as well as eye injuries, bite wounds from other dogs or wildlife, poisonings from newly lush gardens and the fertilizers that make them that way, and curiously enough, allergies, which are often spread through contact with their paw pads. “Seasonal allergies plague our four-legged friends as much as they annoy those of us on two legs,” Dr. Roth says. “Licking, chewing, or scratching could mean anything from fleas to a bacterial infection to allergies to pain.”
“If you don’t use it, you lose it,” Dr. Roth says. “This applies to all sorts of things in life, including muscle. The lazy lab who slept in front of the fireplace all winter is no more ready to run in his favorite 5K without working back into it, than I am … well, maybe he is, but you get the idea. Start with some slow neighborhood walks, and work back into the crazy marathon season slowly. Some dogs know when they’ve had enough and will sit down and quit, but sadly, some just keep going and going to please us, and end up paying for it for days with bloody pads, aching joints, and sore muscles.”
So as you’re digging the running harness and the floatable bone out from storage, remember to take it slow.
Sidebar: Is your dog trying to tell you she’s in pain?
Did you know pain can even change your dog’s behavior? Dr. Roth told us a story about a Yorkie she treated who, due to pain in his spine, became “mean and bitey.” Once his illness was treated and his pain was gone, he became a happy, sweet dog again.
As an expert in pain management, Dr. Roth points out that it’s important to listen any signals your dog might use to indicate she’s in pain, such as:
If you notice any of these traits in your dog, it’s time for a visit to the vet.
Share on FacebookBy 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
This holiday season you don’t have to leave any dog or dog lover off the list because there’s no shortage of inspired gifts from local artists, manufacturers and shops. Here are a few of our favorites for you to check out as you check off your list.
Clothing
For doggie clothing that has it all — style, attitude and an eco-friendly twist — visit the Climutt online boutique. All pieces, conceived and created by local designer Sydney Holcomb, are made from pieces of fabric that were formerly parts of human fashion statements. (**Mention Sidewalk Dog in the notes portion of your online order and save $5 through Dec. 31, 2008.)
Hip clothing from Climutt.
Gear
Now every dog — big dogs included — can look fashionable with collars and leashes from bark+biscuit. Everything is created by local designer, Alisha Zavadil, and is heavy duty enough for everyday wear.
And, no parent of a Sidewalk Dog should be without the Stunt Runner leash from Stunt Puppy created by local Ken Goldman. The versatile leash is perfect for running, walking or shopping with your dog, tethering them outside at a pit stop or when you need a short lead to get to and from the car to the dog park.
Art
Give the dog lover in your life a lasting memory of their dog by gifting a painted portrait from artist Jessie Marianello, founder of Stray Dog Arts, or Sarah Anderson of Lintu Art. All you need to commission a portrait is a photo for the artist to work from.
For any pet lover who has lost a pet or whose pet is experiencing a serious health issue, Pet Reliquaries, by local designer Lisa Havelin, creates custom lockets and pendants to help dog parents keep their loved one close to their heart at all times.
Also creating beautiful stone sculptures to celebrate and commemorate past and present pets in our lives is local artist Mark Clements of Follow The Muse. His sculptures can be personalized and are great for outdoor or indoor display.
Photo Sessions
And though no dog lover I know is void of photos of their dog, you may consider a professional photo session that can function as family art. Consider gifting a photo session with Patrick Nau or for family-oriented flair, Sara Beth Photography if it’s all about the dog, or Olive Juice Studios for their unique “dog-umentary” approach.
Give Back and Save a Pet
More than 100 shelters and rescue groups around the Greater Twin Cities area are in need of food, toys, treats and monetary donations. Why not consider gifting a donation, in the name of a dog lover on your list, to his or her favorite animal welfare group? For a list of groups throughout the Minnesota visit Petfinder.com. You can also check out their Sponsor-A-Pet Program where you can also see a list of local shelters who have individual pets who need sponsors to provide food and care.
More Ideas
Leave no dog off your list! For more gifts and ideas be sure to visit local stores Bone Adventure, Lulu and Luigi and Corazon.
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