novadog

Spring 2009

T H E U LT I M AT E G U I D E T O C A N I N E - I N S P I R E D L I V I N G I N T H E D C M E T R O A R E A

magazine

a
p rty
animal
Festive occasions
special
directory of
party services
and parties to enjoy
with your pooch

Also Inside:
Discover
the Bluebells
at Bull Run
Therapy Dogs
Offer Healing Paws

Online Edition Sponsored By: www.housepaws.com

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 contents
Spring 2009

N O R T H E R N V I R G I N I A D O G : T H E U LT I M AT E G U I D E T O C A N I N E - I N S P I R E D L I V I N G I N T H E D C M E T R O A R E A

COVER STORY

12
Party
Animal
Our top tips for hosting your
own doggie special occasions
By Lisa Woody

18
Sharing
Smiles
Article one in a three-part
series on working dogs
By Taylor Ham

D E PA RT M E N T S

26 3 THE SOURCE 21 IN REVIEW

News, information and products Literature, arts and new media

5 HEALTH WISE 22 THE SCENE

Advice and information on canine A glimpse into the life of Northern
health issues Virginia dogs

8 EXPERT ADVICE 23 CANINE CALENDAR

Celtic Canines:
The Fun Dog Show event
raised funds for the
Animal Welfare League
of Alexandria.
Answers to your behavior and training On the Cover:
questions 24 HIT THE TRAIL Joe, owned by Sarah Marcell
of Lovettsville, VA, is all
Local walks to enjoy
9 ECO DOG dressed up with someplace
to go! Our party dogs were
Tips, products, and insights for 26 COMMUNITY captured on camera by
greener living Bev Hollis of Bev Hollis
Photography, in her
27 MARKETPLACE
10 DESTINATIONS Leesburg, VA, studio. To view
more of her work please visit
Dog-friendly spaces in Northern
Virginia and beyond 28 WAGS TO RICHES www.bevhollisphoto.com.

Adoption success stories

www.novadogmagazine.com 1

NEXT ISSUE....
busting the myth:
Fighting Like Cats and Dogs
Insight on how dogs and cats are living
peacefully under the same roof.
ALSO:
■ The second in our series of Working Dogs:
Geese Police of Virginia
■ Destinations: Take your dog to yappy hour at one
of Northern Virginia’s dog-friendly wineries.
■ Bath time: tips for success
win free stuff!
Take our short, online, reader
survey and you could WIN one
of TWO pet first aid kits from
WAG’N Enterprises (www.wagn
4u.com). June is disaster
preparedness month for animals!
Participate now at:
www.novadogmagazine.com
(Click the reader survey
banner on the right side
of your screen.)
Winners will be drawn at random from survey
participants. No purchase necessary
Congratulations to our FIRST ROUND WINNERS
who will each get a $25 PETCO gift card:
Lisa Joyner of Sterling, VA, Joelle Wiese of Washington, DC,
Lori Markowitz of Herndon, VA, and David Hotz of Arlington, VA
2 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009
novadog
T H E U LT I M AT E G U I D E T O C A N I N E - I N S P I R E D L I V I N G I N T H E D C M E T R O A R E A
magazine
PUBLISHER
Janelle Welch
janelle@2houndsproductions.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Carol Brooks, Robin Burkett, Lisa Colón Tudor,
Juliet Farmer, Taylor Ham, Bev Hollis,
Ingrid King, Sandy Mejias,
Kelly Pike, Tammy Rosen, Veronica Sanchez,
Gina Spadafori, Alana Stevenson, Lisa Woody
ADVERTISING
For rates and information, please contact:
Angela Meyers
Vice President, Advertising
p: 703.887.8387
f: 858.400.6812
ahazuda@yahoo.com
SUBMISSIONS
janelle@2houndsproductions.com
For writer’s guidelines, visit www.novadogmagazine.com
DISTRIBUTION
H.D. Services, Inc.
540.659.4331
WE’RE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
Sustainability and the future of this planet are important to us.
The pages of Northern Virginia Dog are printed on
recycled paper with vegetable-based inks.
To further reduce our eco-footprint, our business cards and
most promotions are printed on recycled paper,
with presses that use wind-generated power.
Please help us make a difference by
recycling your copy of Northern Virginia Dog Magazine.
Northern Virginia Dog Magazine is published quarterly
by 2hounds Productions, LLC. Complimentary copies are distributed
Retail value: $46.95 throughout the DC Metro area, and are available in select locations.
75 piece-kit includes: Please contact us if you are interested in becoming a distributor
• Insect Bite Applicator or to find a distributor near you.
• Antibiotic Ointment P.O. Box 30072
• Cold Pack Alexandria, VA 22310
• Thermal Blanket 703.850.6963
• Plastic Tweezers www.novadogmagazine.com
• Digital Thermometer
• Pet First Aid Book
AND MORE!
Subscribe to NOVADog
Complimentary issues disappear quickly—don’t miss an issue!
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Visit www.novadogmagazine.com to pay with your MasterCard, Visa or
Discover. (Domestic U.S. delivery only. No foreign or international.)
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when you enter coupon code NOVAD2 at checkout
THE SOURCE N e w s , i n f o r m a t i o n a n d products

product spotlight: dog-tested review
Kibble Nibble™
Make Mealtime Interactive for Your Pup
It’s all about the stimulation! Of course
I am paraphrasing what Premier states
about its latest product on the market, the
Kibble Nibble™. It is constructed from a
hard outer shell with a ribbing of purple
rubber on the outside (smart move for
hardwood floor owners!). Similar to its
Twist and Treat™ sister product, the
Kibble Nibble™ twists open so you can
place up to 2 cups of dry dog food inside.
Once closed it has an egg shape with
two holes. One hole is on the top and
the other on the bottom. The holes have
carefully placed rubber prongs that allow
for bits of kibble to roll-out. The packag-
ing instructions encourage the owner to
‘adjust’ the rubber prongs by snipping
them to the appropriate size of the dry
dog food.
Test Subject: Jack, All-American dog
mix, 26 lbs, male
Results: Filled with his dry dog food, Jack
sniffed around and tried to stick his tongue
inside to reach the food. Once I realized
that I needed to adjust the holes, he was
able to shove it around with his nose and
eat his meal. Jack tired easily and disen-
gaged from his meal after a few minutes.
World’s Oldest Dog Turns 21 in May
Chanel, a 20-year-old dachshund (that’s 140 in dog years) was adopted in 1989 from a
humane society shelter here in Virginia. She now resides in Port Jefferson Station, NY, with her
family and owner Denice Shaughnessy.
The next edition of the Guinness Book of World Records, due out in September, will feature
Chanel as the world’s oldest dog. She takes the place of Butch, a beagle from Virginia that
died in 2003 at age 20.
Photo courtesy of premier.com
by Lisa Colón Tudor
Comments: I really love this thing even if Jack
does not (note: Jack is not motivated by dry
dog food). As trainers and dog guardians,
any time we can stimulate our dogs during
everyday activities it improves their quality of
life. Meal time is no exception—here is our
opportunity to make meals interactive and
require a little bit of work.
Rating: 5 out of 6 paws (how about one
small enough for the terriers?)
Where to Buy: Online at www.premier.
com, or we purchased ours at the Pet
Marketplace and Adoption Center (Pet-
MAC) at 822 N. Kenmore St., Arlington,
VA 22201.
Price: $20–$25.
Lisa Colón Tudor, CPDT, is a certified profes-
sional dog trainer and owner of KissAble
Canine, LLC. Lisa specializes in behavior
modification and in-home family pet train-
ing. She works hard to find the most useful
products on the market for her clients and
for her own two rescue pups, Jack and Betty.
Reach her at 571.312.1940 or visit www.
KissAbleCanine.com.
“can’t
If you think dogs
count, try
putting three dog
biscuits in your
pocket and then
giving Fido only two
”
of them. —Phil Pastoret
Tails Are for Wagging
Kids seem naturally attracted to dogs, but
adults must teach them the basics of being
kind to animals and how to show their love for
pets in an appropriate and gentle way.
A children’s book available from the ASPCA
store can help.
Tails are Not
for Pulling, by
Elizabeth Verdick,
shows kids how
to interact with
pets by teaching
careful handling,
awareness and
respect. Since
toddlers don’t always realize when their play
is too rough, pages like “Pets are for cuddling,
not squeezing,” will attempt to educate your
child to interact with pets gently. Several tips
at the back of the book include spending time
with your child practicing on a stuffed animal,
and instituting a rule to “ask first” before ap-
proaching a stranger’s pet.
Local dog trainer, author and teacher Anne
Davis, of Rudy’s Friends Dog Training enjoys
working with children and teaching them how
to be safe and have fun with their dogs. She
suggests starting with something simple such
as giving children an appropriate activity to
share with their dog. “Teach them how to
say the dog’s name and reward when the dog
responds by looking at them,” Anne advises.
Adults should supervise all interaction between
children and pets.
Even a well-known family pet when spooked
is more likely to scratch or bite. Price: $7.95
FIND it: www.aspcaonlinestore.com

www.novadogmagazine.com 3
 THE SOURCE

�������������������� JUNE Is National Disaster Preparedness

Month for Animals
Preparing our families and pets, homes and businesses for
unexpected disasters has become a sign of the times. After 9/11
and Hurricane Katrina, people began to realize the importance
of having a disaster preparedness and evacuation plan that
includes family pets.

���������� ������������� ����������� Take The Test

�������������� ������������� The Humane Society of the United States offers a few plausible

Fur-Get Me Not
scenarios and a series of questions designed to help pet owners
assess their level of disaster preparedness.
An officer arrives at your door. A truck has overturned down
������������������������ ��������
������������������������� ������������������������� the road and is leaking toxic chemicals. You have thirty minutes
������������������� �������������������� to evacuate. You may not be allowed home for several days.
������������ ������������ 1. You run to find the dog and cat carriers and try to get the dog
and cat into the car. Do you have carriers for all your pets? Are
��������������������������������� �������������������������
��������������� ������������ leashes easily accessible?
�������������������������������� ���������������������������� 2. You decide to evacuate to a motel. Do you know which hotels
take pets or where the local emergency shelter is for pets? Do
������������������� you have a plan for where you will go and the route to take?
3. As you arrive at the emergency shelter, your cat somehow slips
out of the carrier and jumps out the car window. Do you have
photos and descriptions of your pets in your emergency kit so
you can show them to emergency workers?
4. You need to tell the shelter workers what to feed your dog and
when to give his medications. Did you remember to bring
ginia’s
r N ort hern Vir r
your dog’s medication and written directions for feeding and
Join us fo ppy Hou
‘p et’ wo rking Ya giving the medication?
best it up!
and bark 5. You are at work when the evacuation order is given for your
neighborhood. Have you made prior arrangements with any
of your neighbors to evacuate your pet or to notify emergency
workers that your home has pets inside?
If you answered “no” to one or more of these questions, you
TM are not prepared to care for your pet in a disaster. For help with
developing a disaster plan that includes all your pets and animals,
where dogs rule and cats meow!
visit www.hsus.org/hsus_field/hsus_disaster_center. ND

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�������������dig the difference.
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Conveniently located at the intersection of Rte. 50 and
Rte. 606 (West Ox Road) by Regal Cinema & TJ Maxx.
Local Company Offers Pet Owners Peace of Mind
The unfortunate truth is accidents do happen. Rover Respond’R is a vital link
between first responders, you and your designated pet guardians. First respond-
ers/good samaritans will contact the National Rover Respond’R emergency phone
number upon seeing the prominently displayed key tag, dog tag, window sticker
or your license plate alerting them that there are pets in your life that need im-
mediate attention.
Annual membership in the service, for as little as $1 a day, provides pet
parents the ability to create an action plan
centered around the care of their pet in the event
of an emergency.
FIND it: www.roverrespondr.com

4 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009

H E A LT H W I S E I n f o r m a t i o n a n d a d v i ce on canine health issues
Is Your Dog Depressed?
By Alan a S t e v e n s o n
D
id you know that dogs suffer
from depression just as we hu-
mans do? Usually, it is environ-
mentally caused, and based on
their social interactions—or lack thereof—
with other animals, including people.
The most common causes of depres-
sion in dogs are lack of physical exercise,
lack of mental stimulation, loneliness, and
being scolded or punished too frequently.
Dogs that are reprimanded or corrected
inconsistently for behaviors that are often
reinforced, albeit unintentionally, by hu-
mans, make a dog’s world unpredictable.
This may cause your pet to be anxious and
depressed. Depression is when an animal
gives up hope, has succumbed to despair
and assumes that no positive change will
take place or occur.
Animals live very much in the mo- and sensitive to, the behaviors of others.
ment. They express how they are feeling, If a dog is under-stimulated, physically or
what they are taught, and what they know, mentally on an ongoing basis, chances are
through their behaviors. You can learn a the dog is unhappy.
lot about your dog by observing how he Do you keep your dog in a crate over
behaves. four hours a day? If your dog remains in
If you suspect your dog is unhappy,
lonely or depressed, here are some ques-
tions to ask yourself.
Is your dog exercised? Do you
mentally stimulate your dog? Do you
give your dog attention and affec-
tion? If so, how often? Dogs are pack
animals. They are incredibly social.
It is unnerving and very isolating
for a dog to be left alone.
Because dogs are inher-
ently communal, they
are very dependent on,
www.novadogmagazine.com 5
H E A LT H W I S E
a crate or cage for hours on end, he will be
under-simulated and under-exercised. The
pent up energy a dog accumulates by over-
crating is simply too much to bear. As a
result, the dog responds to any little trigger
with overexcitement or over-stimulation.
This causes people to react and become up-
set. Usually, they reprimand the dog or yell
at the dog for misbehaving, which results
in more crate time and confinement. This
causes a vicious cycle that is hard to break.
Dogs who are overly crated often end up
depressed.
Does your dog self-lick or chew at
himself incessantly? If your dog obses-
sively licks or chews at himself—providing
there is not any underlying medical prob-
lem—your dog may be stressed, anxious
or bored. Self-chewing and licking are
displacement behaviors when the dog does
not have a positive outlet or alternative
way to relieve his anxiety or boredom. Too
little structure or too many corrections or
reprimands, along with too little exercise,
and lack of mental stimulation, will cause a
dog to exhibit such behaviors.
www.bevhollisphoto.com
www.bevhollisphoto.com/blog
Specializing in stylistic, timeless pet por traits.
For detailed information call or email us at:
615.414.2903
bev@bevhollisphoto.com
Serving Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C.
6 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009
Does your dog jump on you constantly
or bark at you and other people in the
family? If so, your dog is probably getting
mixed signals from you. Barking at you is
a way to get your attention. Jumping is a
submissive, attention-seeking behavior. It
is not a confident gesture. If your dog is
behaving this way around you, your dog is
trying to appease you or seek your atten-
tion in the only ways he knows how. More
than likely you are not leading the interac-
tions or guiding your dog, but reacting to
him. Your dog is anxious around you and
does not know how to get what he wants
without barking at you or jumping on you.
These behaviors can be precursors to de-
pression, especially if these behaviors result
in punishments or too much crate time.
Dogs who are happy tend to have posi-
tive influences in their lives. They tend to
engage in social play with other animals,
including people. They usually are taught
with rewards and praise. They get a lot of
physical exercise and/or mental stimula-
tion through activities, such as playing
with other dogs, jogging, hiking, swim-
ming, agility, or “go find” games. They
are given friendly, gentle attention and
are touched in a kind way through gentle
stroking and/or massage. They do not
spend much time alone and are not overly
crated. When their owners go to work,
they have a social companion such as
another dog, or they have other animals in
the family to be with.
By being aware of what causes depres-
sion and paying attention to your dog’s
behaviors, you can make your dog happy
and encourage him to enjoy life. By play-
ing with your dog, teaching your dog how
to play, exercising your dog, and giving
your dog positive attention and feedback,
through praise and other rewards, you can
pave the way for a happy, healthy relation-
ship with your canine companion. ND
Alana Stevenson, M.S., CDBC, is a professional
dog and cat behavior specialist, dog trainer, and
dog and cat massage therapist. She is the author
of The Right Way the First Time: Teaching
Your Dog Kindly and Humanely. Reach her at
pethelp@k9kitty.com
 ���������������������������������
INTERNET SCARES: �������������������������������������������

Where to go for the facts

By Gina S p a d a f o r i

E
very pet lover with an e-mail address has at one time or ���������������
another—or time and time again—received warnings ���������������
on potentially deadly pet hazards. Warnings have ranged �������������
from produce (grapes and raisins) to garden products �������������
(mulch made of cocoa hulls) to name-brand household cleaning
products (Swiffer WetJet and Febreze).
Problem is, not all warnings are what they seem to be. Some
may be well-intentioned but wrong, while others may be possibly
motivated by a campaign against a particular company and also
wrong. And then there are those that are legitimate concerns.

Legit or bogus? The first stop for any pet lover investigat- �������������������������������
ing an Internet warning should be the American Society for the ����������������� ����������
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ poison information site (www. ���������������������������� �������������������������������������
aspca.org/APCC). ����������������������������� ���������������������������������
The APCC veterinarians respond quickly to Internet warn- ��������������������������� ���������������������������
������������������ ��������������
ings, providing information on which reports are a real concern
and which should not be. Internet scares covered by the APCC
include grapes and raisins (potentially toxic), cocoa-hull mulch
(potentially toxic), and Swiffer WetJet and Febreze (safe when
used as directed).
If you don’t find what you’re looking for at the APCC Web site,
check out Snopes.com, arguably the best resource for checking out
urban legends and e-mail hoaxes of all varieties. The site offers an ex-
tensive collection of information on common animal-related myths.
In the name of fairness to your friends, don’t forward any
kind of e-mail warning without checking it out on the APCC and
Snopes.com web sites first. If you cannot verify the claims in any
e-mail, the only proper thing to do is hit “delete.” ND

Award-winning journalist Gina Spadafori has authored several best-

selling pet care books. © 2009. Reprinted with permission of UNIVER-
SAL PRESS SYNDICATE. All rights reserved.

My dog rulz!
Tell us why your dog rules! Selected entries
will be published in the next issue, plus
you will receive a NOVADog “My dog rulz!”
T-shirt.

You know why your dog rulz,

now tell us!

Go to:
www.novadogmagazine.com/dogrulz.html
www.novadogmagazine.com 7
EXPERT ADVICE
Veronica Sanchez, M.Ed.
CPDT, CABC, is a dog trainer
and behavior consultant in
Northern Virginia. Visit www.
cooperativepaws.com for
more information.
8 Northern Virginia Dog
A n s w e r s t o y o u r behavior and training questions
The Perfect Plan for a Social Puppy
B y Ve r o n i c a S a n c h e z
vaccinations before letting him play
with other dogs. While some vac-
QUESTION I just brought my new Labrador puppy home and cines and precautions are necessary,
I want to be sure that he grows up to be friendly with people and the American Veterinary Society
other dogs. I am introducing him to my friends and family and for Animal Behavior recommends
socialization experiences and
we have another dog at home. Is there anything else I need to be
puppy classes before the puppy
doing? is fully vaccinated. For details on
their vaccination and socialization
recommendations, check out their
ANSWER “Aww, how cute!” teractions with children closely. position statements online at www.
Taking your adorable puppy out for Puppies also need an oppor- avsabonline.org
a walk is a fun way to get to know tunity to play and interact with Socialization is fun for both
your neighbors. Moreover, the friendly dogs. Dog parks are risky puppies and owners. Remember to
opportunity to meet new people because you do not know anything bring your puppy toys, treats and
is important for your puppy’s be- about the other dogs. Play dates clean-up supplies on your socializa-
havioral development. Dogs have a coordinated with dogs and pup- tion field trips. And, of course, don’t
brief period of time where they can pies current on vaccinations and forget to bring your camera! ND
easily learn to accept and adapt to known to be friendly are a safer
new experiences. This time period bet. Do not forget to expose your
before the age of 14 weeks is often puppy to different environments
referred to as the “socialization and surfaces too. Your puppy needs
window.” Although socialization to learn to be comfortable walking
later on is important, it does not on slippery floors as well as grass,
have the same impact. Puppies that carpet and cement.
are inadequately socialized early “One size fits all” does not apply
in life are at risk for developing to puppy socialization. Take your
problems like fearful or aggressive puppy’s unique temperament into
behavior in adulthood. account because scary experiences
Time flies with a new puppy may have a long lasting impact. An
so hit the ground running! Make outgoing puppy may enjoy a visit
sure your pup has lots of positive to Old Town Alexandria. A more
experiences with different people reserved pup, on the other hand,
and has the opportunity to explore may do better given the opportu-
different environments. Introduce nity to build confidence in quieter
him to people of various ages, sizes, locations first. Getting qualified
and ethnic backgrounds. Keep professional help when raising a
it fun for your puppy by having new puppy is always a great idea,
people he meets give him healthy but it is a must-do for pups that are
treats. If your pup is very mouthy, shy, aggressive or demonstrating
you can feed him yourself while other behavioral problems.
people pet him. Be careful and Pet owners used to be told to
always supervise your puppy’s in- wait until their pup had all his
ASK THE EXPERT...
E-mail your dog behavior questions to Veronica Sanchez
at askdogexpert@cooperativepaws.com. We regret that we can’t answer each
e-mail personally. The most interesting and timely topics will be chosen for review in this
column. Questions may be edited for brevity and clarity.
| Spring 2009
ECO DOG Ti p s , p r o d u c t s & i n s i g h t s f o r g r eener living
Kiss Carpet Stains Goodbye
Stain & Odor Removers Get Eco-Friendly
By Julie t F a r m e r
L
et’s face it—accidents happen. And when dogs
are involved, those accidents can be messy,
stinky, and, unfortunately, lingering, which can
also lead to “marking” problems.
Luckily, there are several eco-friendly, natural solu-
tions that offer an all natural, eco-sensitive alternative
to harsh chemicals found in traditional household
stain removers.
Simple Solution (www.simplesolution.com) offers
Natural Pet Stain and Odor Remover, which is made with
renewable corn-based ethanol and plant-based mild
cleaners, as well as beneficial bio-cultures and enzymes
that activate on contact with stains and odors. Accord-
ing to the company, this combination digests organic
waste and continues to multiply until the problem is
Green Carpet Tiles From Flor
Short of replacing your entire carpet, Flor (flor.com)
offers carpet squares made out of renewable and
recycled raw materials. The tiles also feature some of
the lowest VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in the
industry.
Flor’s carpet tiles can be used to create area rugs both
large and small, as well as carpet rooms wall to wall,
and are available in a variety of colors, patterns and
textures. They even have tiles suitable for garage use.
Whether they are used to carpet large areas, or as indi-
vidual squares, the tiles can be lifted up, cleaned and
then left in a ventilated area to dry before replacing.
The tiles are priced per 19.5-inch by 19.5-inch square,
starting at $7.99 each, so they are inexpensive enough
that if a stain just won’t come out, you can replace
a tile (or two) and not break the bank. Flor will send
samples for a nominal fee, so you can be sure you
choose just the right color and texture to compliment
your home.
eliminated. The prod-
uct is scented with a
ginger eucalyptus fra-
grance oil blend that
works with the clean-
ing agents to advance
pet odor removal. It’s
also non-toxic and safe
to use around children
and, of course, pets.
(32 oz., $14.99 at www.
petco.com)
Buster’s Secret Odor & Stain Eliminator, created by
Bark Busters (www.barkbustersboutique.com), features
natural bio-enzymatic technology to eliminate odors
and stains. The product is made with a unique propri-
etary blend of bacteria and enzymes that break down
and turn organic stains and odor-causing substances
into liquid that can be wiped away. This product is
non toxic, non flammable, 100-percent biodegrad-
able and assigned Environmental Protection Agency’s
Design for Environmental Approval, and is also safe to
use around children and pets. (32 oz., $14.99 at www.
barkbustersboutique.com)
Bi-O-Kleen™ (www.bi-o-kleen.com) offers Bac-
Out™ Stain & Odor Eliminator, which contains strains
of live enzyme-producing cultures that remove organic
waste and odors, as well as food-grade lime extracts
to eliminate stains and odors on contact. In addition
to carpets, the product can be used on upholstery, pet
runs and kennels, and, according to the manufacturer,
is even gentle enough for use on cloth diapers. (32 oz.,
$8.99 at www.drugstore.com)
Cesar Millan (yes, that Cesar Millan) created the
non-toxic Dog Whisperer by Cesar Millan Natural Odor
& Stain Remover exclusively for Petco. The product
does not contain harsh chemicals. Instead, it features
botanical extracts that neutralize odors and stains, as
well as essential oil of lemongrass for a fresh smell. The Juliet Farmer has contributed
product also bears the Carpet and Rug Institute Seal of pet-related stories to
Approval. (32 oz., $12.99 at www.petco.com) numerous publications and
So the next time your pooch makes a mess of your web sites. She and her
husband live in Sacramento,
carpet, reach for an all-natural, non-toxic stain and Calif., with their retired racing
odor remover, and soon, pet stains will be a thing of greyhound and two cats.
the past. ND
www.novadogmagazine.com 9
DESTINATIONS
Janice Fang Yi and her
daughter Camryn, stroll with
their dog Snowyi among the
Virginia Bluebells. Photo by
Robin Burkett of Pawprints
Photography. To see more
of Robin’s work visit www.
pawprintsphotography.com.
10 Northern Virginia Dog
D o g - f r i e n d l y s p a ces in Northern Virginia and beyond
Spring Rolls Out the Blue Carpet
By Kelly Pike
F
orget about the cherry blossoms. When it
comes to welcoming spring with your pack,
those famous pink blossoms have nothing on
northern Virginia’s own secret spring treasure,
the Virginia bluebell. And nowhere boasts more blue-
bells than Bull Run Regional Park’s Bluebell Trail.
Bluebells are small, low-growing plants known for
their bell-shaped blue or violet blooms. While modest
when alone, each April 150 acres of Bull Run Regional
Park erupt into a stupendous display of blue and green
that covers the forest with a carpet of wildflowers.
Believed to be the largest stand of bluebells on the East
coast, it is not only visually stunning, it’s also easily ac-
cessible and welcoming to canine companions.
The park’s Bluebell trail is a 1.5-mile loop offering
a glimpse at 25 varieties of wildflowers, including the
bluebells and 300 acres of spring beauties, small white
flowers that also cover the forest grounds. Both people
and leashed dogs are able to enjoy the trail any time the
| Spring 2009
park is open, but for those really looking to get their
bluebell fix, there is the annual Bull Run Bluebell Walk.
This year it will be held Easter Sunday, April 12.
Led by naturalists with the Northern Virginia Re-
gional Park Authority, the 30-minute walk includes folk-
lore, plant identification and trivia about the plants. For
instance, you’ll learn why another name for bluebells is
Oysterleaf. (Hint: You could taste it to find out.)
The walks are typically informal, says Jeff Randolph,
park assistant manager, and attract a wide range of visi-
tors from children (recommended for those age 6 and
up) to the physically challenged to families and their
dogs. Visitors are encouraged to ask questions.
Chief Naturalist Martin Ogle has been leading bluebell
walks at the park for the past 24 years and is still wowed
by the naturally occurring wonder. He especially enjoys
watching the faces of newcomers when they first see the
display. “The reaction is pretty universal,” Ogle says.”
If someone is seeing it for first time, there is a look of
surprise and a little awe. It really is
a pretty spectacular show.”
Happy Tails
Freelance writer Katherine Mercu-
rio Gotthardt of Bristow and her
12-year-old Shiba Inu Shiba agree.
The pair has been enjoying the
smooth, flat trail for years. Not only
is the short path easy on Gotthardt’s
bad knees and her aging pup, it also
makes her feel closer to nature.
“The flowers literally blanket
the forest floor with their blue and
purple hues, the color heightened by
leaves and stems,” Gotthardt says. “The
sight of the flowers, the smell of finally
thawed air and the joy a pup gets from exploring
can bring you away to a more peaceful place even if
only for a brief time.”
One of the most delightful aspects of the trail,
visitors agree, is the way it curves through the forest
of wildflowers. Each turn offers a new vista and yet
more flowers. Add to that the fact that there are no
thorny bushes, pits or other hazards for curious dogs,
and you have a wonderful way to spend a morning
or afternoon. Those with more energetic dogs can
IF YOU GO: The Bluebell Trail blooms for about two weeks in mid-April. The naturalist-led Bull
Run Bluebell Walk will be held Easter Sunday, April 12 at 2 p.m. The walk covers 1.5 miles and
lasts about 30 minutes. Participants should meet at the pool parking lot. The event is included with
park admission, and no reservations are required, though you should call ahead in the event of bad
weather in case it is cancelled. Nature-lovers can also walk the tour without a guide any time the
park is open. Admission is free for residents of Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax City, Fairfax County,
Falls Church and Loudoun County. Others pay $7 per vehicle. Hours vary. Bull Run Regional Park
is located in Centreville, off exit 52 on I-66, and is about 29 miles west of Washington, D.C. Call
703.631.0550 for updates on the blooming status of the bluebells. For more information visit www.
nvrpa.org/parks/bullrun.
continue on the 17-mile Bull-Run Occoquan
Trail, a moderately strenuous hike which winds
through steep hillsides and deep ravines. Hikers
should know, though, that unlike the Bluebell
Trail, the Bull-Run Occoquan Trail doesn’t lead
back to Bull Run Park.
One warning for bluebell lovers with a dog
in tow: Virginia Bluebells grow best in stream
banks and moist woods. Combined with frequent
spring rains, it often makes for a muddy trail so be
sure to bring towels to clean off your pup for the car
ride home.
But a little bit of mud is surely worth it, especially
if you and your dog have grown tired of cold weather Kelly Pike is a freelance writer
and bare branches. The vibrant blue flowers, nestled in Annandale, VA. When she’s
not busy writing about busi-
in purplish-green foliage, are a beautiful reminder
ness and finance, she and her
that spring — and with it, longer days for more walks husband enjoy jaunty walks
together — are really just around the corner. ND with their Puggle Lola.
www.novadogmagazine.com 11
 a
COVER STORY

ANIMAL
P
et parties have become the newest trend. More
and more people are hosting them, and nearly
Our top tips for everyone attends. Why? Pet parties are much
more fun than most other kinds of parties! And
hosting your own everyone has something in common with the other
guests, so it’s a great way to meet people. Here are
our top tips for hosting your own dog birthday party.
doggie special
occasions Location. Choose a place where there’s
plenty of room, and where the occasional
“accident” won’t be a big problem. Some
Themes. Dog parties can have as many
themes as other types of parties. Consider
having a costume party, an Easter egg hunt
doggie daycare and boarding facilities will (with kibble or small treats hidden in small
B y Lisa Woody let you have a party at their place. Even plastic eggs), a learning party with special
doggie boutiques and bakeries now offer guest trainers or groomers, a portrait party,
dog party packages that include refresh- or other fun themes. Spaw parties can be
ments and location for one price. Dog loads of fun, and with all the great canine
parks are another great party location; spa products on the market today, you can
some even have a party area that’s fenced assure a fun time for every dog, from the
off from other runs. most masculine Rottie to the most femi-
If you hold the party at your home, nine Bichon. Pam Ahart and Dani Weng,
choose several areas where guests can local owners of Bark ’N Bubbles Dog Wash
Bev Hollis, of Bev Hollis Photography, mingle, such as the back yard and the living agree. “Parties are becoming increasingly
caught our two adorable party dogs on room. This allows your guests to separate popular among our four-legged family
camera, in her Leesburg, VA, studio. Bev
can be reached at 615.414.2903, or visit dogs who might not get along, without members. Birthdays were created to cele-
her web site www.bevhollisphoto.com. making them leave early. brate another year. As dog owners we are so
thankful for another year with our pets so

12 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009

Ivan, owned by Cecelia
Spitznas of Purcellville, VA,
is dressed in his party
best. Party collar and hat
courtesy of The Reign
of Cats and Dogs, www.
thereignofcatsanddogs.com.
13 Northern Virginia Dog | Winter 2009 www.novadogmagazine.com 13
 why not celebrate their birthday, too? It’s a great time
to come together with your dog and his doggie friends
for pupcakes, gifts, games and socializing. Pet parties
have become one of the newest party trends—your dog
should be able to join the fun,” says Ahart.
Games. It’s always fun to have a few games to keep
the fun times going. Try a relay race (a friend of mine
had a sock relay where the owners had to put socks on
their dogs, then cross the finish line). You can have a
sit/stay contest or a “talent show” in which each dog
shows off his or her trick repertoire. You may be able
to get prizes from local pet shops in exchange for put-
ting their card or coupon on the prize as you give it
away.
Refreshments. A lot of what makes a dog party
successful is preventing natural squabbles between
dogs (and, to a lesser extent, between dogs and people).
Food will initiate a territorial incident more than any
other thing, so how you serve canine refreshments at
a party is even more important than what you serve.
Dog treats should be served in bite-sized pieces. Own-
ers should feed their own dogs, and no more than can
be chomped in one bite should be offered. If a dog
snatches a large bone or cookie and runs off to eat it,
he’ll almost certainly be followed by a crowd of other
dogs who’d like to have it, too.
Your doggie special occasion would not be complete
without a cake. They’re a little less sweet than what
you would eat, but they look the same as any other
cake. You can either make one from a recipe (there are
plenty online), or buy a mix, or purchase a decorated
cake from a bakery. It’s still hard to find a pet bakery
that will ship a cake, so look for a local bakery that you
can pick up from.
You can make your own beautiful snacks by taking
inexpensive dog biscuits and dipping or drizzling them
in white chocolate. Melt the candy on low heat, add
food coloring if you wish, then place cookies on a wire

Keeping the Peace By Sandy Mejias

The trend towards dog “get-togethers” has
increased significantly over the last twenty
years. In the 70’s and 80’ the Olde Towne
School for Dogs students lived with their
people, walking in town or playing in their
fenced yards but they did not socialize
extensively with each other. Now many of
our student’s principle source of exercise is
a visit to the dog park, a play date or a party
with their dog friends. When planning a
party for the dogs think through how each of
your canine guests will react to the stimula-
tion of other dogs, treats and activities.
Plan the Guest List Wisely
The first thing to consider in achieving a
“peaceful” party is to plan a compatible
guest list. Obviously females in heat should
stay home as should intact males who have
been involved in skirmishes before. Some
intact males do play well with others so
it is not necessary to exclude them. It is
important to insure that any toy breeds or
pop eyed dogs like Shih Tzus and Pugs are
not involved in rough activities with bigger
dogs. Accidental injuries of small breeds
participating in play that becomes to rough
can occur even with a friendly, compatible
group. Any dog with a previous history of
aggression that has caused injury towards
another dog and or human should never be
included in a dog get together.
On Leash or Off?
Decide ahead of time according to
your guest list if this will be
an on or off leash party. If
there are active or large
impulsive dogs com-
bined with small
tentative ones it
should be the re-
sponsibility of the
owners to insure
each dog stays in
his comfort zone.
However, too much
interaction and interference by the human
guests can sometimes cause a fight to occur
so it is best to have a chaperone at your
party who understands and speaks “dog”.
A knowledgeable dog person will usually
know when it is appropriate to intervene and
when it is not. Make sure that all the guests
are wearing appropriate fitting flat collars
or harnesses and remove all training collars
or equipment that could cause injury while
wrestling and playing..
Dogs are notorious for not wanting to
share with each other. Unless you have a
group who knows each other well and has
enjoyed food treats together before it is best
to offer food, chew bones and exciting treats
individually. Favor bags to be taken home
and enjoyed can be a solution to avoiding
confrontations. Another trigger for fights and
bites is retrieving games as some dogs just
can’t handle anyone else “getting the ball”.
If a dog is known to become aggressive
when others reach the ball or frisbee first
he should probably not participate in free
for all retrieving game. Planning your party
with a compatible guest list, a knowledge-
able chaperone and appropriate activities
for the group will insure a great time for
dogs and their people.
Sandy Mejias and her husband Carlos have
owned and operated The Olde Towne School
for Dogs in Alexandria, VA since 1975.

14 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009

 1

rack after dipping or drizzling them. These can make

a gorgeous party tray for just pennies per treat.

Gifts. You can have a traditional birthday party, but

if your dog has everything she needs and your real
purpose is to visit with friends, why not make it a
shelter benefit party? Ask guests to bring toys, treats
and blankets for dogs at a local shelter, then donate
them in your dog’s name. It makes the party even
more fun, and people enjoy knowing they’re giving 3
comfort to dogs in need. Tip: take a picture when
you deliver the gifts, and e-mail it to your party
guests. They’ll love it.
If you do have gifts for the birthday girl or boy,
plan ahead. If you open the gift in front of everyone,
be aware that other dogs may want to play with and

1. Be sure to supply pickup bags and point guests to the receptacle for
disposal. Photo by Robin Burkett, www.pawprintsphotography.com.

2. Because so many doggie treats look good enough for us to eat, it’s polite to tell
guests verbally and/or with table signage which buffet is for people and which is for
pups. Photo by Robin Burkett, www.pawprintsphotography.com.

3. These personalized collars from The Reign of Cats and Dogs in Leesburg, VA,
are sure to make your dog feel noteworthy on his special day. Photo by Bev Hollis,
www.bevhollisphoto.com.

www.novadogmagazine.com 15
 party. If you request an RSVP, re-
member that fewer people actually
do respond these days than did in
the past, so have enough room and
refreshments (and gift bags) for a
few extra guests.
Tell your guests which areas are
off-leash, and ask them to kindly
keep their dogs leashed in other
areas. Supply pickup bags and point
guests to the receptacle for disposing
of them. Because so many doggie
treats look good enough for us to eat,
it’s polite to tell guests verbally and/
or with table signage which buffet is
Denise Hansen, of
Manassas, VA, planned
for people and which is for pups.
this fancy affair to If you’re giving gift bags to your
celebrate her soft-coated guests, hand them out as guests
Wheaten Terrier, Bubis’ leave. This prevents guests from
7th birthday. His custom
sample the gifts at the party. So be squabbling over treats or toys
cake was created by
Natalie Marquardt, of My prepared to share, or have a place during the party. Think about the
Best Friend Specialty Pet set aside to put gifts out of reach. kind of guests you’re having for the
Bakery. Natalie hand- party when planning gift bag con-
paints all her cakes
Etiquette. Invitations should tents. If you’re expecting a mix of
from a supplied photo.
(www.mybestfriend
be sent out three weeks before the small and large dogs, you may need
pettreats.com).
16 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009
to purchase treats and toys in two
sizes. Mark the gift bags for large
and small dogs so guests can take
an appropriate bag as they leave.
Remember that the main pur-
pose is to have a great time with
your human and canine friends,
so once people arrive, don’t be up-
tight. If someone forgets to pick up
after her dog, just pick up the pile
yourself with a smile. If dogs track
mud or grass into the house, or if
there’s an “accident” on the carpet,
just take a breath and worry about
it later. It’s often worth a little
cleaning up to have a party that
your friends remember and talk
about for years to come. ND
Lisa Woody is co-owner of www.
FunStuffForDogs.com, a quirky retail
site she launched in 2005. She hosts
“The Lucky Dog Show,” a weekly online
podcast with 14,000 listeners, and is a
frequent writer for pet publications.
Party Animal
Products and Services directory
CHASE YOUR TAIL BAKERY
305-A East Market Street
Leesburg, VA 20176
703/771-3019
www.chaseyourtailbakery.com
Why give a good dog a bad treat? Come visit
us at Chase Your Tail Bakery in Leesburg or at
the Farmer’s Markets in Leesburg, Cascades
and Falls Church (May-Dec.) Try our hand-
made, fresh baked treats in many popular
varieties!
DOGMA BAKERY
2445 N. Harrison St.
Arlington, VA 22207
703/237-5070
www.dogmabakery.com
One Stop Doggie Party Shopping. Find
amazing treats (made fresh daily!) and gifts.
Select a unique, personalized cake to
celebrate your dog’s special day. We also
have ice cream, pet supplies and more.
BARK ’N BUBBLES
info@barknbubblesdogwash.com
www.barknbubblesdogwash.com
The perfect doggie celebration! Birthday
package includes: Invitations, thank yous,
Decorated party room, streamers, balloons,
birthday banner and games. Each doggy
guest will enjoy a pupcake and goodie bag.
Spaw baths can also be included.
Whether you’re throwing a full scale bash, or planning a quiet family get-together,
celebrate in style with the products and services listed in the Northern Virginia
Dog Magazine resource guide to dog parties and celebrations.
PAWS AND CLAWS PHOTOGRAPHY
571/641-1044
www.pawsandclawsphotography.com
The best value in pet photography: profes-
sional results, unbeatable prices and a com-
plete satisfaction guarantee. Join our growing
list of satisfied clients. Serving the entire
Washington, D.C. Metro area since 2005.
THE PUPPY PARTY PLACE
847/507-7722
www.puppypartyplace.com
Party Animals Wanted! This is your one
stop puppy party shop! Sign up for Rocket’s
Barkday Club and receive free birthday
greetings! Enter NOVA for 20% off your
next purchase.
FUNSTUFFFORDOGS.COM
(972) 712-2812
lisa@funstufffordogs.com
www.funstufffordogs.com
Unique dog toys, treats, dog birthdays,
dog beds, gifts, dog party supplies, and
pet apparel. Shop our frisky, friendly store
today. Check out our money-saving coupon
codes and see what’s new this week!
TAIL WAGGIN’ CELEBRATIONS
1700 7th Ave. #116 PMB 282
Seattle, WA 98101
877/381-6924
www.tailwagging.com
Tail Waggin’ Celebrations has all the party
hats, cakes, treats, birthday banners and
decorations you need for your pet’s special
day. Come visit us at www.tailwagging.com.
ERRAND PARTNERS
703/328-0185
info@errandpartners.com
www.errandpartners.com
Introducing Northern Virginia’s Exciting New
Errand & Personal Concierge Service!
Errands • Shopping • Decorating • Organizing
• Personal Assistance • And more!
Whether it’s planning your dog’s birthday
party, your daughter’s wedding, or day-to-
day tasks, if it will save you time, we’ll
do it!
RED DOG SPA & BOUTIQUE
12158 Fairfax Towne Center
Fairfax, VA 22033
703/865-6644
www.reddogspa.com
Red Dog Spa pet boutique, eatery and
grooming spa offering nutritious food and
treats, apparel, gifts and cage-free grooming
services for dogs and cats.
www.novadogmagazine.com 17

sharing
smiles
1
working dogs
Article number one in a three-part series
(from left to right) Fairfax Pets on Wheels
volunteers Cara Schantz and Sabine Arndt, and
their dogs Jacob and Tessa, stroll through the
hallways of Powhatan Nursing Home with
resident dog-lover Marie Mobley.
Photos by Robin Burkett
(www.pawprintsphotography.com)
18 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009
By Taylor Ham
A
s dog owners, most of us would
agree that the connection we have
with our pets makes us happier
people. Just one wag of a tail can
make us smile; it can make us laugh; and
it can turn a bad day around. Some dog
owners would even go so far as to describe
the time spent with their dogs as therapeu-
tic—and it is!
Although dogs have been a source of
comfort for people throughout history,
it wasn’t until relatively recently that the
therapeutic qualities of the human-ca-
Dogs have a way of
finding the people
who need them,
filling an emptiness
we don’t even know
we have.
—Thom Jones
nine bond began to be seriously studied
by health care disciplines concerned with
people’s emotional well being and quality
of life. Out of these studies was born a new
field—“animal-assisted therapy”—and a
completely new way of looking at the hu-
man-animal connection.
While the benefits of animal-assisted
therapy were not widely recognized until
the last half of the twentieth century,
they now cannot be ignored. Studies have
shown that interactions with pets offer
both psychological and physical benefits.
Pets can contribute to enhanced feelings
of emotional connectedness and reduced
feelings of loneliness and depression. Re-
search shows that pet owners reap physical
benefits as well, including lowered blood
pressure and decreases in the stress hor-
mone cortisol.
“The results of research on the human-
animal connection have been more conclu-
sive than we could have imagined, and yet
I think we still don’t fully understand how
deeply it affects people,” says Denice Ekey,
program coordinator at Virginia Common-
wealth University’s Center for Human-Ani-
mal Interaction. “The unconditional love
a dog offers is a very powerful thing—it’s
hard to put into words.”
Giving Back
In light of these findings, non-profit organi-
zations that train, evaluate and register dogs
for therapy visitation have been cropping
up across the country, and more and more
pet owners are signing up to share their best
friends with others. Thousands of “therapy
dogs” and their owners volunteer to visit
hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing
homes and other special needs facilities in
their communities, bringing joy and comfort
to the people who need it the most.
Tracy Van Duston first learned about
animal-assisted therapy shortly after Sep-
tember 11, 2001, when she began to search
for meaningful volunteer opportunities
in the area. She came across an advertise-
ment for Fairfax Pets on Wheels, Inc., an
all-volunteer non-profit organization that
connects people and their pets to residents
of nursing homes and assisted-living facili-
ties in Fairfax County, VA. “I thought: How
great is it to be able to volunteer with your
dog?!” Tracy remembers. “My grandmother
was in a nursing home, and there were never
any animals there. The minute I saw the ad I
knew it was a perfect match for me.”
Tracy now serves as President of Fairfax
Pets on Wheels, managing a network of
more than 300 canine and human volun-
teers who provide over 8,000 hours of pet
visitation to residents in 10 Fairfax County
facilities. I was recently invited to tag along
during one of the group’s Tuesday evening
visits to Powhatan Nursing Home in Falls
Church, VA. Though I had never visited
one before, I had always imagined nurs-
ing homes to be very austere and gloomy
places. What I witnessed, however, changed
Making the Grade By Tammy Rosen
Not all dogs are cut out to be therapy dogs. If you are interested in exploring your
dog’s readiness for therapy work, you’ll want to focus on these main areas:
Socialize your dog. Introduce your dog to a variety of people including men, women, and
kids. It is very important that the dog be comfortable and enjoy greeting people. Each experi-
ence should be positive; the dog should not show any signs of fear or aggression. Practice
having strangers wear hats, coats, gloves, masks, and strange clothing that your dog may not
witness every day.
Practice grooming and handling. Your dog should enjoy being touched and held. Make
sure you can pet your dog without fear or hesitation, including the head, ears, mouth, belly,
front paws, back paws, and tail. Patients may want to hug your dog, so it important to ensure
your dog enjoys these types of interactions not just from you, but more importantly, from
strangers.
Simulate the therapy environment. Expose your dog to a variety of environments particu-
larly loud and crowded areas. Help your dog gain confidence in cramped quarters and near
equipment that may be sparse in daily life, but will be predominant in a hospital setting such
as crutches, wheelchairs, beeping machines, and elevators.
Establish strong obedience skills. It is important that you and your dog have a good
working relationship, your dog listens to you, and can follow directions well. This is where
it is crucial that your dog have a solid foundation in basic obedience. Your dog should have
good attention skills, be able to sit and down on command, not jump on people, walk nicely
on leash, stay, and come when called. The better trained your dog is in these basic skills the
easier he will be to manage in a therapy-type setting.
Evaluate your dog’s personality. Relaxed dogs are best suited for therapy work. If your
dog is easily aroused, he may not be the best fit for this line of work. Dogs should be able to
control their excitement and be calm around a child or someone in a fragile state.
To really ensure that your dog is comfortable and would enjoy therapy work, I recommend
daily exposure and practice of these tips. The therapy organization you choose to work with
will evaluate your dog for temperament using many of the examples outlined above. If you
have a puppy, understand that they need time to grow and develop. Puppies begin their ado-
lescence stage around 5 months of age and it ends once they are behaviorally, sexually, and
physically mature at around the age of 2 in small breeds and 2 1/2 in larger breeds. Training
a puppy that is eager to please is far different from training an adolescent dog that is now
eager to test your patience. It takes time to develop and hone obedience skills. Some therapy
programs do have a minimum age requirement of at least 1 year.
Another excellent way to prepare your dog for therapy work is to become a Canine Good
Citizen (CGC). Some therapy groups use the CGC test as part of their evaluation, but not
all therapy organizations require it. For more information on CGC testing go to www.akc.
org/events/cgc
Tammy Rosen is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT), CGC Evaluator, and owner of Fur-Get Me
Not, a full service pet business that provides dog daycare, boarding, training, dog walking, pet
sitting, a DIY pet bath, and boutique. For more information on their Levels Training Program or
CGC testing go to www.furgetmenot.com
www.novadogmagazine.com 19
my perspective and warmed my heart.
As the dogs and their owners entered the
facility, the rooms and hallways filled with
life and laughter as residents, staff, family
members and volunteers interacted with
the dogs, watched them perform tricks and
shared stories of their own pets.
Partners in Healing
Tracy first began visiting Powhatan with
her Cairn Terrier mix, Princess. Her
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Precious,
joined her just this past year. “Princess was
a typical terrier,” Tracy says. “She was full
of energy and life and vitality. Precious on
the other hand, is very Zen. I’ve had visits
where she will fall asleep in a resident’s lap
and stay there for hours.”
Good therapy dogs come in all shapes,
sizes and breeds. Some have double lives
as pedigreed show dogs or faithful fam-
ily companions, and some, like volunteer
Cara Schantz’s Rottweiler mix, Jacob, were
rescued from a shelter. When Cara first met
Jacob in the Richmond City Animal Shel-
ter, she immediately knew that he would
make a perfect therapy dog. “He loves
people so much, that it would almost be
a waste not to let others share that.” Cara
says. “He gives Rottweilers a bad name,” she
adds with a laugh as she watches him cud-
dling up to a resident at Powhatan.
Despite their diverse backgrounds and
personalities, the best therapy dogs have one
thing in common: a love of people. Most
therapy dog organizations require that dogs
pass a temperament test as well as an evalu-
ation of behavior in situations they would
encounter during a visitation, including
maneuvering wheelchairs, walkers and slick
hospital floors. Although there are no strict
obedience guidelines to qualify as a therapy
dog, basic obedience and control is required
for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Some people prefer small lap dogs,
while others like the larger breeds. Big
dogs are easier to pet from a wheelchair
or seated position, while the small dogs,
like Precious, are often happy to snuggle in
someone’s lap. Marie Mobley, a resident at
Powhatan Nursing Home, makes no dis-
tinction. “I love all dogs,” she tells me with
a grin. “In fact, I have a motto: I love dogs,
horses, cats…and some people.”
20 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009
Precious, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, shares a
quiet moment with Marie Mobley, a resident of
Powhatan Nursing Home in Falls Church, VA.
Therapy dog groups in the DC Metro region
are always looking for human and canine
volunteers. Get involved today by contacting
one of the organizations listed below, or visit
Therapy Dogs International (www.tdi-dog.org)
or the Delta Society (www.deltasociety.org)
to learn more about therapy dog registration
and visitation programs nationwide.
■ Fairfax Pets on Wheels, Inc.
703.324.5406
www.fpow.org
A therapy dog visitation program that
connects pets with people living in as-
sisted living and nursing homes in Fairfax
County, VA.
■ PAL (People Animals Love)
202.966.2171
www.peopleanimalslove.org
An organization that brings people and
animals together to brighten the lives of
the lonely, ease the pain of the sick and
enrich the world of at-risk children.
■ National Capital Therapy Dogs, Inc.
301.585.NCTD (585-6283)
www.nctdinc.org
A volunteer organization that provides ani-
mal-assisted therapy and animal-assisted
activities to healthcare facilities in the DC
Metro area.
The dogs and their human companions
from Fairfax Pets on Wheels have been
visiting Marie at Powhatan for three years
now. Her favorites are displayed in framed
portraits scattered amongst countless dog
figurines on her shelves, just behind the
life-sized plush hound that stands guard on
her nightstand. Like many residents, Marie
had to give up her own beloved pet when
she entered the nursing home and looks
forward to weekly visits with the volun-
teer’s dogs. Sabine Arndt, Vice President
of Fairfax Pets on Wheels and a volunteer
who has been involved in the program for
more than ten years, tells me about the
special bond that formed between her late
Great Dane, Daytona, and Mrs. Mobley.
“Daytona loved her, and she loved him.”
Sabine says. “As soon as we walked into the
building he would practically drag me to
Marie’s room to find her.”
It is the many touching stories like these
that keep volunteers coming back, week
after week. “I come for the happiness that I
can bring to others,” says Dan Pearl, a vol-
unteer who has visited Powhatan with his
dogs since 1998. “I love seeing the smiles
on people’s faces. People who are normally
bored and depressed will come alive when
they see the dogs.”
Get Involved
The benefits of animal-assisted therapy
are certainly not one-sided. The pres-
ence of pets in a nursing home or hospital
provides a break from routine, lightens the
mood and increases communication and
socialization between staff and patients.
Dog owners find volunteering to be a
great stress reliever, and as everyone gets
involved in the visits, a kind of extended
family is formed. “We are family” is a senti-
ment I heard from every staff member,
volunteer and resident I spoke with, and
saw echoed in every happy, wagging tail.
We already reap the physical, social and
psychological benefits of our dog’s love.
Most therapy dog owners will tell you that
there is no better feeling in the world than
to share that love with others. Therapy dog
visitation programs are not only a great
way to spend some quality time with your
best friend, but also a chance to give back
to the community. ND
Taylor Ham is a freelance writer from
Ithaca, NY. She currently lives in Alexandria,
VA, with her husband, two cats and a Basenji
mix, Samson, who was born in a small village in
West Africa.
IN REVIEW L i t e r a t u r e , a r t s a n d n e w m edia
literature
Izzy & Lenore: Two Dogs, an Unexpected
Journey, and Me by Jon Katz
By Ingrid King
I n his previous books, bestselling author
Jon Katz first introduces the reader to
soft head under her hands. A terminal
cancer patient joyfully remembers his own
the dogs of Bedlam Farms. You do not beloved dog from long ago each time Izzy
have to have read these books, though, comes to visit. As Izzy ministers to the pa-
to become engrossed in this moving tients and Katz gets to know their families,
story about the depth of the connection the author also starts to confront his own
between humans and animals. In the past and descends into depression.
author’s own words, “this book is about Enter Lenore, she of the exuberant
small things, like getting a new dog that personality and endless capacity for af-
changes your outlook. And about big fection. Not only does her loving pres-
things, like having a dog lead you places ence help move Katz out of the valley of
you never imagined going.” the shadows and reignite his passion for
The story begins with Katz rescuing Izzy, working with the dogs, it also restores his
an abandoned Border Collie who had been connection with the farm and the people
turned down by others because he was too and animals around him.
dirty, too hyper, and had never lived with The book is a beautifully written cel-
people. Katz saw something special in this ebration of the connection between dogs
dog. Little did he know that taking Izzy and humans, and the ability of a special
home was going to be the beginning of an dog (or two) to transform lives. And if
amazing journey, which was later comple- you didn’t get enough of Izzy and Lenore
mented by the arrival of a bright-eyed black after reading this wonderful book, you
Labrador Retriever puppy named Lenore, can follow their lives on Jon Katz’ Bedlam
also dubbed “The Hound of Love”. Farm Journal blog where he shares his
Izzy and Jon train to be hospice vol- thoughts along with moving photographs.
unteers. Izzy’s intuitive and affectionate
nature makes him a natural at bringing Ingrid King is a Reiki Master Practitioner
comfort and canine companionship to and owner of Healing Hands. Healing Hands
dying patients in private homes and nurs- provides Reiki for pets and people. Healing
ing facilities in upstate New York. What Hands also publishes free periodic newsletters
transpires between Izzy and these patients on alternative health topics for pets and people.
is pure love that defies explanation. An For more information, and to subscribe to the
Alzheimer’s patient smiles for the first time Healing Hands newsletter, please visit www.
in months when she is able to feel Izzy’s pethealing.net .
art
Sterling Silver pet charms make a unique piece of wearable
art for you or your dog. Sandi Bahr of Tiny Tokens Designs is a
stay-at-home mom with three children, and says she has been
creating jewelry since she was a child. “About three years ago,
I decided to get serious about my jewelry and began selling it
online. Designing jewelry has been a way for me to express my
creativity,” she adds.
Sandi’s custom charms are hand stamped using individual
letter stamping tools, therefore no two are exactly alike. Let-
tering may not be perfectly straight and spacing may vary,
which adds to the appeal. Prices start at $12 and charms are
shipped from Brentwood, CA. Contact Sandi at 925.550.9059
or visit www.tinytokensdesigns.etsy.com.
new media: web
Search With Your Heart
We all have the best of intentions and
most of us try to make donations to our
favorite pet-related charities from time
to time. These dedicated foundations
and organizations are hurting now more
than ever for funding to help the many
animals that touch their lives daily.
What if you could help these organiza-
tions simply by searching the Internet?
GoodSearch.com was founded in 2005
for just this purpose. You use
GoodSearch exactly as you would any
other search engine, but the big differ-
ence is that 50 percent of the revenue
it generates is donated to charities and
schools designated by you—the user.
Goodsearch is powered by Yahoo!, so
you can rest assured that you are getting
back high-quality results every time.
Its very easy to get started. On the
GoodSearch.com homepage, choose
from thousands of existing organiza-
tions or add your favorite cause to the
list. Search the Internet just like you
normally would—and fifty percent of
the revenue generated from advertis-
ers is shared with the charity, school or
nonprofit organization of your choosing.
Each time you perform a search on
GoodSearch.com, your designated char-
ity earns money. The more searches you
perform, the more your charity makes.
Add up the thousands of others who
have selected the same charity and you
can see that it begins to make a real
difference.
Make sure to bookmark the search
engine in your web browser, to use it
every day and to tell family members
and friends so they can use this tool to
support their favorite causes, too. ND
www.novadogmagazine.com 21
THE SCENE A g l i m p s e i n t o t h e l i f e o f Northern Virginia dogs

1 2 1. MARLEY
Loved by Melissa in
Leesburg

2. DELA
Loved by Suzanne and Josh in
3 Alexandria

3. CHARLOTTE
Loved by Karen in Ashburn

4. AXEL FOLEY
5 Loved by Alana in Chantilly

4 5. JOSIE
Loved by Doug in Rockville
6
6. MIZZEN
Loved by Staci in
Washington, DC
9
7. DEACON
Loved by Rob & Marlene in
Alexandria

8. RIPLEY
8 Loved by Amy in Gainesville

9. MOLLY
Loved by Joanne in Hamilton

13 10. KOBE & ACE

Loved by Jennifer in Gainesville

11. BENTLEY
7 Loved by Jamie in Arlington

12. HULLA BALOO & OSCAR

10 11 Loved by Mike & Jacquie in
12 Woodbridge

13. RORY
Loved by Viviana

14. BENTLEY
Loved by Bracy & Bridget in
Ashburn

Hey, where’s my dog? 15. MAYDAY

If you submitted a photo, 16 Loved by Ines in Reston
and don’t see it here, check
out the NOVADog home page
for the slide show of 16. ADDIE & PINOT
Loved by Mark & Cindy in
NOVADogs!
15 Fairfax Station
Submit your photos at www.
novadogmagazine.com/
14 submissions.html

22 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009

CALENDAR E v e n t s y o u w o n ’ t w a n t t o miss

and are held at Bark ’N Bubbles, 795

APRIL
Saturday, April 11
NOVA Trail Dogs Hiking Club—10:00
AM-12:30 PM, Bull Run Regional Park,
Centreville, VA. Mid-April is the best
time to visit Bull Run for spectacular,
blanketed fields of bluebells! RSVP
required, www.K9Hiking.com
Saturday, April 18
9:00 AM–NOON—Dog Wash to benefit
Homeward Trails Animal Rescue. Fur-
Get Me Not, 4140 S. Four Mile Run Dr.,
Arlington, VA. $15 suggested donation.
www.furgetmenot.com.
10:00 AM—FREE Puppy Playtime for
pups 3 to 5 months of age at Dog Paws
University in Arlington, VA. Please make
ALWAYS THERE
PET CARE LLC
Center St., Ste 1B, Herndon, VA. Cost:
$105. Reservations and pre-registry
required. Call 888.WAGN4U2.
Sunday, April 26 Serving The Area Since 1994
BowWowPowWow 2009!—11:00 am– Licensed • Bonded • Insured
5:00pm, Marie Reed School Plaza
(2200 block of 18th St NW at Wyoming
Ave.) A day of fun and festivities for Over 6,000 Square Feet
Cage-Free Boarding
you and your dog, meet new friends &
neighbors, soak up the Adams Morgan
experience, show off your pooch and & Day Care
24 Hr. Supervision
network with other pet owners. Contests
& Prizes (best kisser, owner/dog look-
alike, & more!), Vendor booths, pet
adoptions. www.bowwowpowwow.com.
5 Indoor Play Rooms Obedience & Behavioral Training
Outdoor PottyYard Pet Transportation
M AY Spacious Outdoor Play Area In Home Pet Care
Separate Puppy & Geriatric Areas In Home Pet Exercising
Saturday, May 2 “Kitty Condo” Cat Boarding Open 7 Days/Week

a reservation: 703.931.5057, www.
DPnCC.com
Sunday, April 19
12:00 noon—Dog Safety for children 5
years of age and older. Teach children
the rules so they can be safe and
have fun with dogs. FREE but please
call to register: Dog Paws University,
703.931.5057, www.DPnCC.com.
Please do not bring pets to class.
Monday, April 20
6:30-8:30 PM—BABY-READY PETS
CLASS offers preparation and assis-
tance to help expectant families prepare
their home and their pets for the arrival
of a new baby. Reservations are re-
quired. Contact Animal Welfare League
of Arlington, 703.931.9241 x 213.
Suggested donation per couple is $25.
Please do not bring pets to class.
Saturday, April 25
10:00 AM—FREE Puppy Playtime for
pups 3 to 5 months of age at Dog Paws
University in Arlington, VA. Please make
a reservation: 703.931.5057, www.
DPnCC.com
1:00 PM–4:00 PM—TAVERN DOG
CONTEST Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
Society in Alexandria, VA, is holding
its 2nd annual competition to select a
Tavern Dog. The Society is searching
for the right dog to represent them at
special events. Contest held at Market
Square, 301 King Street, in Old Town,
from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Advance registra-
tion and fee are required. For more
information, please visit www.gadsbys
tavernmuseum.us or call 703.836.2407.
9:00 AM–6:00 PM—PetTech® Pet-
Saver™ program provides pet owners
and pet industry professionals with
the necessary skills to help save pets.
Eight hour course covers restraining and
muzzling, primary assessment, rescue
breathing, canine and feline CPR,
choking management, snout-to-tail
assessment for injury and more. Classes
provided by WAG’N Enterprises, LLC
10:00 AM–4:00 PM—Reston Pet
Fiesta! Reston Town Center, Reston, VA.
A fun-filled day for the entire family.
Leashed dogs are welcomed.
• Tails on Trails Dog Walk: Bring your
family pet and walk for a cause—
benefits GoodDogz.org.
• Face Painting, $5 & Caricature Artists
$10 Proceeds benefit GoodDogz.org.
• Vendors and retailers for great pet-
related shopping.
To register for the walk and get info
about the Fiesta, visit www.petfiesta.org.
Thursday, May 7
7:15-8PM—FREE Puppy playdates for
dogs less than 1 year of age. Fur-Get Me
Not, 4140 S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arling-
ton, VA. www.furgetmenot.com.
Saturday, May 9
8:30 AM RAIN OR SHINE—14th An-
nual Walk for the Animals. Bluemont
Park, 329 N. Manchester Street
Arlington, Virginia. Check-in and on-site
registration 8:30 AM, the Walk kicks
off at 9:30 AM. Participating dogs will
receive their very own bandana. Exciting
demonstrations, entertainment, and
vendor booths. Contact the Animal Wel-
fare League of Arlington, www.awla.org.
10:00 AM—FREE Puppy Playtime for
pups 3 to 5 months of age at Dog Paws
University in Arlington, VA. Please make
a reservation: 703.931.5057, www.
DPnCC.com
NOVA Trail Dogs Hiking Club—
8:00AM-12:00PM at US National
Arboretum, Washington DC. Stroll
through Spring Flowers at the National
Arboretum! Optional picnic following
the hike. RSVP required, for more info
visit www.K9Hiking.com
Thursday, May 14
6:30–8:30 PM—BABY-READY PETS
CLASS offers preparation and assis-
tance to help expectant families prepare
their home and their pets for the arrival
Continued on page 25
703-237-5522
��������������������������
����������������������������������
Advertiser Index:
All Friends Pet Care ........................ 27
www.allfriendspetcare.com
Always There Pet Care ..................... 23
www.alwaystherepetcare.com
Animal Welfare League
of Alexandria .................................. 25
www.alexandriaanimals.org
Bark N Bubbles.........................17, C2
www.barknbubblesdogwash.com
Becky’s Pet Care ............................. 27
www.877doggywalk.com
Bev Hollis Photography ................... 6
www.bevhollisphoto.com
Cascades Photography..................... 16
www.cascadesphoto.com
Chase Your Tail Bakery .................... 17
www.chaseyourtailbakery.com
Cooperative Paws, LLC .................... 27
www.cooperativepaws.com
Cutie Paws ..................................... 27
www.cutiepieskeepsakes.com
Dogma Dog Bakery.......................... 17
www.dogmabakery.com
DogOn Fitness, LLC ........................ 27
www.dogonfitness.com
Doody Calls .................................... 27
www.doodycalls.com
Errand Partners .............................. 17
www.errandpartners.com
Extra Hours Pet Care ....................... 27
703.541.2129
Fun Stuff for Dogs.....................25, 17
www.funstufffordogs.com
Fur-Get Me Not .............................. 4
www.furgetmenot.com
Happy Woof, LLC ............................ 7
www.happywoof.net
Happy Yaps .................................... C4
www.happyyaps.com
Help Lost Pet ................................. 27
www.helplostpet.com
Karing By Kristina .......................... 16
www.karingbykristina.com
Marchten Interiors .......................... 27
703.533.7670
Olde Towne School For Dogs ............ 5
www.otsfd.com
PawPrints Photography .................... 11
www.pawprintsphotography.com
Paws and Claws Photography ........... 17
www.pawsandclawsphotography.com
Pet Nursing, LLC ............................ 27
www.petnurses.com
Puppy Party Place .......................... 17
www.puppypartyplace.com
Red Dog Spa & Boutique..............4, 17
www.reddogspa.com
Reston Pet Fiesta ........................... 27
www.petfiesta.org
Rudy’s Friends Dog Training, Inc. ..... 7
www.rudysfriendsdogtraining.com
Susan Makara Pet Portraits .............. C3
703.548.4611
Tail Waggin’ Celebrations ................. 17
www.tailwagging.com
Virginia Greyhound Adoption ............ 27
www.virginiagreyhounds.org

www.novadogmagazine.com 23
 HIT THE TRAIL
L o c a l w alks to enjoy
Potomac Overlook Park
By Caro l B r o o k s , c o - o w n e r, D o g O n F i t n e s s
Ah spring…season of hope, newly budding
flora, and longer days. What better way to
experience the season than to view its wonders
on a hike with your dog. My mixed-hound,
Polly-Bunches, and I are always up for a new
adventure, and so we were delighted to dis-
cover Potomac Overlook Regional Park, a 70-
acre wooded refuge only two miles from Routes
66 and 29 in Arlington, VA. This sumptuous
native hardwood park, sandwiched between
Donaldson Run and the George Washington
Parkway, offers exceptional scenic views, ma-
ture trees, and well-marked trails.
On a recent visit, Polly and I scrambled
around the park for over three hours. Polly en-
joyed balancing on fallen trees, climbing rocks,
and splashing through several water crossings
along the way. We both enjoyed exercising over
hilly terrain—from gentle to challenging—and
passed several like-minded people and dogs.
Potomac Overlook Regional Park has over
two miles of trails to discover, and you can
easily extend your outing beyond the park
using the Donaldson Run Trail, leading to the
Potomac River and Potomac Heritage Trail. If
you’re really adventurous, you can use the park
as a starting point for longer hikes, following
the Potomac Heritage Trail downstream to
Roosevelt Island or upstream to Chain Bridge
where you cross to the C&O Towpath. Both of
About Your Guide
Carol Brooks is co-owner of
DogOn Fitness, LLC. She
specializes in high-energy dogs,
providing them with working
walks, running, adventure
hikes, socialization and training
reinforcement. Located in Reston, DogOn Fitness has
served the Northern Virginia area since 2003. Visit
them on the Web at www.dogonfitness.com.
GOT A HIKE you’d like to see profiled? Send
suggestions to cabrooks@dogonfitness.com
24 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009
these extended trips will take 4-5 hours so
pack a lunch and plenty of fresh water, and
wear sturdy hiking shoes.
Two-mile Hike Suggestion
Before heading to the park, visit its website
(www.nvrpa.org/parks/potomacoverlook) to
download a map. Keep in mind this park is a
popular destination for dog-owners, children,
and runners. Keep your dog on a leash and
step aside for others on the move.
Our suggested 2-mile hike is a loop around
Marcey Road. This hike takes us past the Don-
aldson Cemetery, an Indian Camp dating back
to 500 BC, an abandoned spring, an orchard,
and several well-placed park benches inviting
us to pause for the view. The trails are dotted
with interpretive signs offering insight to the
parkland’s history and habitat.
To get to the trailhead from the upper park-
ing lot and comfort station, follow Marcy Road
toward the Nature Center. Take an immediate
right as you pass through the gate onto the
well-marked Overlook Trail (black trail signs).
Follow the Overlook Trail downhill to the inter-
section of the Red Maple Trail (red trail signs).
Turn left on the Red Maple Trail and go about
1/4 mile to the Donaldson Cemetery.
Continue downhill to the Heritage Loop Trail
(green trail markers) and look for the Indian
Spring on your left. You can either take a short
side trip across a wooden bridge to view the
spring or continue on the trail. The trail leads
uphill to an open field and the Indian Camp,
an excellent spot for a picnic on a nice day.
Cross the field and look for white trail markers
leading you to White Oak Way, a winding and
hilly trail. This eventually leads you back to the
tennis courts at the bottom of Marcy Road, or
to the Nature Center if you venture off on one
of the feeder trails to the left of the path. To
return to your car from the tennis courts, go
left on Marcy road to the top of the hill.
Bill Russell with his daughter
Faye and their Labradoodle
Penny, out for an all-day hike
following the trail.
Getting There
Potomac Overlook Regional Park is at the end
of Marcey Road off of Military Road in North
Arlington. Follow directions available on the
park’s website to get to Military Road (varies
depending on your starting location). Once on
Military Road, continue to Marcey Road and go
right (you will see park signs along the road).
Go to the end of Marcey Road (past the tennis
courts) to the Potomac Overlook parking lot.
Park Hours
The park is open year-round during daylight
hours, but the comfort station is only available
when the Nature Center is open. The Nature
Center is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday
through Saturday, and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on
Sunday. IMPORTANT: The Nature Center is
closed for renovations from March 1, 2009
through late spring. ND
TRAIL SPECIFICS:
Distance: 2 miles
Time: 60 minutes or more
Location: Potomac Overlook Regional
Park, two miles from Route 66 and
Route 29 in Arlington, VA.
Fido-Friendly Features: No bikes, off-
street parking, dog-safe trails, trash
receptacles at trailheads, comfort
station with drinking fountain. Close to
dog-friendly Clarendon (for an after-
hike meal)
Use: hikers, runners, on-leash dogs
(also running clubs and schools)
Best time to go: Morning
Rated:
(moderately hilly)
1 paw = easy; 5 = expert
CALENDAR (Continued)
of a new baby. Reservations are re-
quired. Contact Animal Welfare League
of Arlington, 703.931.9241 x 213.
Suggested donation per couple is $25.
Please do not bring pets to class.
Saturday, May 23
Viva Vienna! Hours vary—Food, artisans,
retail vendors, professional groups, and
community organizations gather on
Church Street for a Memorial Day fes-
tival. Visit Rudy’s Friends Dog Training
booth for help with your pup. Festival
info: www.vivaviennava.org
Saturday, May 30
K-9 2K and the 2009 Herndon Festival,
Bready Park, Herndon Community Cen-
ter. Registration 8:30-9AM. 2K Walk
9-10AM, Doggie Expo 10AM-Noon
Call 703.787.7300 for more
info. Interested vendors contact
pam@allfriendspetcare.com.
www.herndonfestival.net.
10:00 AM—FREE Puppy Playtime for
pups 3 to 5 months of age at Dog Paws
University in Arlington, VA. Please make
a reservation: 703.931.5057, www.
DPnCC.com
9:00 AM–6:00 PM—PetTech® Pet-
Saver™ program provides pet owners
and pet industry professionals with
the necessary skills to help save pets.
Eight hour course covers restraining and
muzzling, primary assessment, rescue
breathing, canine and feline CPR,
choking management, snout-to-tail
Find Your New Friend At
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
A non-profit organization with over 60 years of
caring, concern and commitment to the animals in
our community. Operating the Vola Lawson Animal
Shelter, where we offer adoptions, counseling, and
a variety of animal care programs.
4101 Eisenhower Ave. Alexandria VA 22304
703/838-4774 www.alexandriaanimals.org
assessment for injury and more. Classes
provided by WAG’N Enterprises, LLC
and are held at Bark ’N Bubbles, 795
Center St., Ste 1B, Herndon, VA. Cost:
$105. Reservations and pre-registry
required. Call 888.WAGN4U2.
Sunday, May 31
NOVA Trail Dogs Hiking Club—8:30AM-
3:00PM at Hawksbill Summit,
Shenandoah National Park. Visit the
tallest peak in Shenandoah National
Park, take in views of a waterfall and
hike along the famed Appalachian Trail.
RSVP required, for more info visit www.
K9Hiking.com
JUNE
Thursday, June 4
7:15-8PM—FREE Puppy playdates for
dogs less than 1 year of age. Fur-Get Me
Not, 4140 S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arling-
ton, VA. www.furgetmenot.com.
Saturday, June 6
10:00 AM—Dog Safety for children 5
years of age and older. Teach children
the rules so they can be safe and
have fun with dogs. FREE but please
call to register: Dog Paws University,
703.931.5057, www.DPnCC.com.
Please do not bring pets to class.
Thursday, June 11
6:30–8:30 PM—BABY-READY PETS
CLASS offers preparation and assis-
tance to help expectant families prepare
for the arrival of a new baby. Reserva-
tions required. Animal Welfare League Saturday, June 13
of Arlington, 703.931.9241 x 213. 10:00 AM—FREE Puppy Playtime for
Suggested donation $25. Please do not pups 3 to 5 months of age at Dog Paws
bring pets to class. University in Arlington, VA. Please make
a reservation: 703.931.5057, www.
DPnCC.com ND
Submit your event to: janelle@2houndsproductions.com
Yappy Hours
Pooches on the Patio, Capitol Hill
Union Pub, 201 Massachusetts Ave. NE—12pm-4pm Saturdays, Spring and
Summer Only. Plenty of dog treats and water bowls. Humans get happy hour
food and drink specials too. www.unionpubdc.com
Hotel Monaco, World Famous Doggie Happy Hour
480 King Street, Alexandria, VA—Tuesday and Thursdays from 5 to 8 pm,
weather permitting, April through October. Held in the courtyard of the Hotel
Monaco. Complimentary doggie snacks with plenty of fresh water bowls.
Humans can feast on menu items from the adjacent restaurant Jackson 20.
www.doggiehappyhour.com.
Pat Troy’s Ireland’s Own
111 N. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA—Daily yappy hour on the patio from 4 to
7pm with half-off special on appetizers and drinks (for humans). Your dog
can dine from his own menu. May we suggest the lamb or beef stew! www.
pattroysirishpub.com/doggy.php
Jay’s Saloon & Grille
3114 N. 10th St., Arlington—Sundays, weather permitting, from 1 to 4
pm. Dog-friendly Clarendon is the perfect setting for happy hour fun on the
covered patio. Water, treats, and games for your dog. 703.527.3093
Shop our frisky,
friendly store today.
Check out our money-saving
coupon codes and see what’s
new this week!
www.novadogmagazine.com 25
COMMUNITY H a p p e n i n g s w e ’ v e s n i f fed out

Celtic Canines: Fun Dog

Show Raises Funds for AWLA
March 7th marked the 28th annual Ballyshaners Saint Patrick’s
Day Parade in Old Town Alexandria. The parade festivities
began with the Fun Dog Show, which was co-sponsored again
this year by Barkley Square Gourmet Dog Bakery and Karing by
Kristina, Pet Care Professionals. Unseasonably warm tempera-
tures attracted a throng of parade-goers, lining King Street for
the festivities. Northern Virginia Dog Magazine was proud to be
the official media sponsor of the Fun Dog Show event that drew
dogs and their owners in record numbers.
This event has quickly grown over the years to become one
of the most anticipated dog events in the area. This year’s Dog
Show judge, the Honorable Daniel O’Flaherty, joined the Master
of Ceremonies, newscaster John Harter, in evaluating the dogs
in categories ranging from Best Tail Wag to Best Irish Costume.
Proceeds from the event were donated to the Animal Welfare Fun Dog participants
League of Alexandria (AWLA). ND lead the St. Patrick’s
Day parade down
King Street.

WINNER: Disproportionate Body WINNER: Best Tail Wag WINNER: Hair Most Like Owner WINNER: Most Unusual Tail

Photos of the festivities were

taken by Kristina Meacham of
Cascades Photography. To see
more of her work, please visit
www.cascadesphoto.com.

WINNER: Best Costume WINNER: Biggest Paws WINNER: Most Unique Markings

26 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009

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www.novadogmagazine.com 27
 WAGS TO RICHES
Adoption success stories

Suka: On the fast-track to a loving home

Adopted from:
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA)

How did he get his name?

Suka was abandoned in his crate in front of the AWLA early one rainy morning. His
former owners left a note taped to the crate explaining that they were losing their home Suka
and needed to move out of state. They could not take their dog with them. Since he is a Approximately 1 year old
Siberian Husky, we researched some names and picked Suka which is Inuit for “fast.” owned by Rachelle
Like most Huskies, Suka loves to run, and this name seemed appropriate! and Steve Oliver
of Dumfries, VA

Yo u p i c k e d h i m b e c a u s e . . .
We are the previous owners of two Siberians and appreciate their energy and intelli-
gence. They can be mischievous escape artists with incredible drive—and unprepared
owners can be overwhelmed by this—which lands them in shelters. We knew we wanted
another Husky because we had come to love the breed, and preferred to adopt rather
than go to a breeder. We visited with Suka at the AWLA and saw that he was all Husky in
mind and spirit, with a very soft side. We knew he was the one!

Favorite treat or snack:

Our two previous Huskies were not especially food-driven, and Suka is no exception. We
usually stay away from table food for him because we do not want him to beg or become
bothersome with guests. He seems just as happy with his kibble and dog biscuits. Praise
and attention seem to be his preferred rewards, and we can provide plenty.

Favorite toy:
Right now, his tail seems to be very entertaining to him...but he really loves
chasing tennis balls. Our other Huskies would chase balls but never bring
them back. Suka actually returns the ball, and if you don’t throw it
again, he amuses himself by tossing it in the air on his own.

Yo u l o v e h i m b e c a u s e h e . . .
We love the breed as a whole, but Suka knows how to
charm people. He will tuck his ears, cock his head side-
ways and lure you in with an outstretched paw. Then he
gives you tons of kisses. He greets strangers like he has known
them all his life! What we enjoy most though, is the reception
we get when we return home. His “Welcome Home!” is unlike any
other—it makes you laugh every time. ND

The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA) is an animal sheltering and welfare organization whose mission is, “To
inspire compassion for all living things, to provide shelter to animals in need, and to promote adoptions, animal welfare,
and responsible pet ownership in our community.” Approximately 1,200 animals are adopted from the shelter each
year. The AWLA also provides behavior and training advice, humane education programs, wildlife rescue, reduced cost
spay and neuter certificates as well as rabies and microchipping clinics. Visit www.alexandriaanimals.org to donate or
learn more.

28 Northern Virginia Dog | Spring 2009

 Pet Portraits by

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Masterfully painted in oil on a gold leaf background.

Roxie

Val Cookie

from Marguerite in California …

Call, Email or Visit the Studio
“When I unwrapped Cookie’s portrait tears
Studio #339
Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 North Union Street
welled up in my eyes… I am so grateful
Alexandria,Virginia 22314 to Susan for bringing my dear dachshund
703-548-4611 • susanmakara@gmail.com back to me.”
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