Wednesday, June 30

Top 10 Pet Hair Hiding Places

For anyone that has a dog or cat in their home, knows how frustrating it is to clean, think everything is spic and span only to see more hair coming out of somewhere.  It is like you can't get rid of it!  Petside.com brought us some great tips on this very subject.  They asked Julia Szabo, author of Pretty Pet-Friendly: Easy Ways to Keep Spot's Digs Stylish and Spotless for the 10 most common pet hair hiding places and the best ways to keep them clean. 
1. Couch Cushions
Sure, it's super fun to have Cody cuddle with you on the sofa. But the hair he leaves behind is far from fun to deal with. "Most chairs and couches are covered in types of fabric that allow pet hair to nestle right into the weave," says Szabo. "So pet hair doesn't just get caught underneath or between cushions, it can get trapped in the cushion itself."
Free up fur encampments by sucking them up. Bissell's Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum has a dimpled rubber attachment that brushes hair up, much like a grooming tool. For a low-tech option, try like 3M's FUR Fighter hair-trapping hand tool. Then wipe the furniture down with a slightly damn cloth or sponge to grab any leftovers.
To prevent hair buildup, Szabo says to opt for a microfiber style fabric that won't become clogged with hair, or protect your existing couch with a slipcover, like the SureFit Pet Throw Cover, that can be removed and washed as needed.
2. Computer
No matter how many times you've shooed your cat off the keyboard, it's nearly impossible to prevent Fluffy's locks from flying up and onto your desktop.
Luckily, there are easy ways to snatch the hair before it infects your computer and it's parts. Pull hair out from the keyboard by running a length of double-sided tape between keys. (Or install a clear plastic keyboard cover to stop hair from clogging keys in the first place.)
For hair caught in the ball of your mouse, lay down a square out of double-sided tape and roll the mouse over it in multiple directions. Use an aerosol electronics cleaner to safely blow the hair out from the drives.
3. Corners of Stairs
It's easy to skip over the pet hair stuck in the corner of stairs (and even help jam it in) when vacuuming. Szabo recommends honing in on the corners of carpeted stairs with a long, narrow vacuum attachment, being sure to go over the area a few times in opposite directions.
If the hair is really stuck, use a toothbrush to loosen up the clot. Clean the corners of wooden stairs the same way, or polish them to get rid of and prevent pockets of pet hair. Applying a wood furniture polish to the corners of clean stairs makes wiping away hair quick and simple, says Szabo. Plus, keeping the corners lubricated may make hair less likely to hang out there in the future.
4. Media
DVDs, books, and CDs stored on open shelves in your living room are subject to hair invasion. Keep that Jimmy Buffet album in good enough condition to pass on to your grandkids by routinely wiping the outside of the case with a slightly damp cloth. Let dry completely before restacking.
Consider hiding your media in storage boxes on your shelves and you'll only have to dust the outside of the boxes, which will leave you and extra 20 minutes to spend playing outside with your canine kids.
5. Baseboard Heater
When you sweep and vacuum your floors you can accidentally push pet hair underneath the baseboard heater or radiator. (Something you might not notice until you're rolling around with Sammy on the bedroom floor.)
Szabo recommends using a telescoping feather duster, like the Swiffer 360 Duster, to snatch up invisible pet hair from the floor underneath the radiator and baseboard and bottoms of the coils so it won't make it's way back onto the floor or block your heating system.
6. Area Rugs
Area rugs might add cushy comfort to hardwood floors, but they're a magnet for pet hair! They slip around and can trap pet hair underneath or release a secret stash into the air. Flip up all the edges when you're vacuuming, or, even better, roll the area tug up and take it outside to shake out any pet hair and dust.
For a pet-friendlier style, Szabo recommends laying down Flor modular tiles, which have a slip-resistant bottom that keeps them in place so hair can't make its way underneath. Plus, they're easy to replace after heavy wear and tear.
7. Shoes
Ever wonder how pet hair snuck inside your shoe? You can blame to your dog but in reality your socks are the cunning culprit. Think about it: You walk around the house, picking up everything your pets have left behind, then you slip those little piggies into your clean sneakers and the vicious cycle has begun. The fix?
Wear a sandal or flop around the house instead. If the weather is chilly go for wooden clogs, says Szabo, which are less likely to harbor hair. If you're attached to your fuzzy slippers, insert a piece of Sticky Sheet to pull out the hidden hair and restore them to order.
8. Furniture Legs
Pet hair can cling to the legs of tables and chairs, plus get caught underneath. Factor in those protective furniture pads and hair all too often becomes a permanent tenant .
To get rid of hair that's stuck to the sides of legs after your cat used them as a backscratcher, Szabo recommends spritzing PawSafe Multi-purpose cleaner on a cloth and running it all along the leg. Grab the clumps on the bottom by turning the chair on its side or lifting the table. If the hair is stuck to the furniture pads, either break of the vacuum and narrow attachment or replace the pads every so often.
9. Under Stove and Fridge
It's not often that you need to move your stove or refrigerator, but when you do you'll most likely see a pile of pet hair. Add a few spills or grease that snuck its way underneath and you've got a recipe for a foul smell in the not-so-distant-future.
Day to day, Szabo advises using a Swiffer Sweeper to keep the area clean of pet hair. The ultra thin head can fit between appliances and the floor and the disposable pads attract both wet and dry hair.
10. Window Treatments
Pet hair that's kicked up around the house every day can settle in unexpected places like your blinds and curtains. Run the Fuzzy Wuzzy Blind Duster through your blinds.
It cleans both sides at once so it's takes less time, plus the microfiber head can be removed and washed. Get your curtains clean quickly and easily by running them through the wash so the dryer's lint box can collect the hair. If you're short on time or your curtains are dry-clean only, suck the hair off with a hand vac or upholstery attachment.
These are some great tips!  I plan to start testing these out right away.  I do own the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser and I think it is AWESOME! I was amazed at what a great job it did for a hand vac especially.

For the original article, bark on the link:  Bark!

Tuesday, June 29

Devotion

In the latest issue of the The Bark, there was a great "feel good" story in the back.  I have been having an emotional time with dogs lately, be it realizing one may be at the end of his life or just simply seeing a client I am overly attached to move to a new (and much better) home.  This story really struck a cord with me.  It is about the devotion of dogs, from one man's point of view.  It is so touching and moving, I wish to share it with all of you.  I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

To view this article, bark on the link:  Bark!

Monday, June 28

Summer Dog Safety Tips

In one of the most recent K9 Magazine online daily digests they had great summer dog safety tips.  I have done a couple of blogs thus far about this subject, but I don't think we can have too much information on this subject, it is very important and there are so many different aspects.  I hope you enjoy and find this as interesting and informative as I did.
Beat the Heat
Remember that a parked car can be like an oven and can become dangerously hot in only a few minutes. Dogs are not efficient at cooling themselves. They cannot perspire and can only dispel heat by panting and through the pads of their feet. Panting and drinking water helps to cool them, but if they have only overheated air to breathe in a parked car, dogs can suffer brain and organ damage after just 15 minutes.
Light-colored dog coats can invite damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, leading to sunburn and possible skin cancer. If your dog is light-colored and / or he lacks black pigment around the eyes, ears and nose, keep him out of the bright sun. Ask your vet about sun block for your dog, preferably in a formula he can’t lick off.
Dogs should always have access to cool shade and fresh water in the summer heat.
Rules of the Road
An unrestrained dog in a vehicle is dangerous to everyone in the car, including the dog himself. Secure your dog in the back seat with a safety harness or in a pet carrier fastened to a seat belt. Another option is to install a pet barrier or crate to keep the dog in the back area of your vehicle. Dogs riding in the front can be seriously hurt if the airbags deploy.
Avoid allowing your dog to hang his head out the car window – he could suffer eye injury from flying debris or worse.
When stopping the car along your journey, attach a lead to the dog’s collar before opening the door so he can’t escape. Use a lead to walk your dog.
Waterproof Your Dog
Many dogs enjoy swimming, no matter how clean or dirty the water. If your dog has had a dip in a lake or river, rinse him off to avoid ear infections, eye infections and pesky clingy insects which can embed themselves into his fur.
If your dog loves to jump into your swimming pool or paddling pool, make sure he knows how to get out safely. When a dog falls into a lake or river, his instinct tells him to turn around and get out from the point at which he fell in. However, in a swimming pool, a dog may drown if he follows this instinctive action. Therefore, teach your dog where and how to get out of the pool regardless of where he went in.
Not all dogs like or know how to swim. If your dog appears eager to give swimming a try, let him get used to it gradually. Refrain from throwing a nervous, inexperienced swimmer into the water.
Fear of Thunderstorms
Fear of thunderstorms is common in dogs, though we may not have this worry in CA, if you are traveling this will be helpful. Many dogs can sense a storm coming from the rapidly falling barometric pressure. Your dog may show anxiety even before the storm can be heard.
Dogs can sense fear or discomfort from people, so it is important you develop a calm attitude toward storms. Let your dog stay close, and try to distract him with play. Do not try to comfort him in a sympathetic voice; this will sound like praise and may increase his nervousness and confusion.
Keep windows and curtains closed to reduce noise and bright flashes. Turn on a TV or radio at normal volume to distract your dog from loud noises and help him to relax.
Provide your dog with a safe place to be during storms, whether inside or out. Create a special den-like area in your home where your dog always feels safe and secure. If a storm is brewing, lead your dog to his special place to help him feel calm and protected.
By taking these precautions, you and your dog can enjoy a healthier, fun-filled summertime.

For more information on Dog Safety, give us a bark:  Bark!

Friday, June 25

Dog Driver Runs Over Owner

It has happened again, another bad dog driver!  A few days ago The Associate Press reported a story about a Florida man, Christopher Bishop, that had put his truck in neutral, left his driver's side door open and then crawled under his F-150 truck to check for an oil leak.  Seeing the opportunity, his Bulldog Tassey jumped into the truck and put it in gear and the truck rolled over the left side of Bishop.  He somehow manged to get up and stop the truck!  After about 5 hours of pain Bishop finally went to the hospital, none of his injuries were life threatening.  No report on what trouble dear Tassey might have gotten into for running over her owner.

For the orginial article, bark on the link:  Bark!

Thursday, June 24

Loosing Weight With Your Pet

Since summer is here, everyone is being a little more weight conscience, for themselves as well as their pet.  I found a great article in the Petside Newsletter about loosing weight with your pet.  What a great idea to partner up with your best friend to loose a few pounds or to just get in shape.  The entire article is very informative and has great suggestions on how to accomplish your goals, for your dog or cat at least.  Here are a few of the tips: 
Choose Treats Wisely - The easiest way to drop a few pounds is to stop giving your dog or cat so many treats, cut it down to 2-3 a day or ask your veterinarian about low-fat treats.
Pay Attention to Portions - Cut back on how much food you are giving your pet to cut back on calories.  Also, don't always follow what is on the bag, it may be the wrong amount for your dog or cat based on their body size, stage of life and metabolism.  Check with your veterinarian about the correct amount and type of food.
Scamper and Pounce More - Increase the amount of exercise or play for you dog.  Go for longer walks or add another walk to their schedule, try to go to parks for hikes and play or arrange for some play dates.  For your cat you just have to be persistent and creative until you find what they will engage in for play.
Train Your Teammate - If your dog needs to improve their manners in order to make walks, jogging or playtime more enjoyable or bearable, contact a trainer (me) to make these things a little easier.

For the entire article, bark on the link:  Bark!

Wednesday, June 23

Take Your Dog To Work Day

It is the day that all of us wait for that do not currently get this luxury...this Friday (June 25) is Take Your Dog To Work Day. There’s nothing like having your best friend at your feet as you deal with your day. The folks behind this fun day provided these tips to make sure your dog day is a success:
1) Do an office check
Check with management and co-workers to see if anyone is allergic, afraid of or opposed to you bringing your dog to work for this one special day.
2) Puppy-proof your work space.
Remove poisonous plants, hide electrical cords and wires and secure toxic items such as correction fluid, permanent markers, etc. Any office items in question should be placed out of your dog’s reach.
3) Bathe and groom your dog before the big office debut.
Be sure your dog’s shots are up-to-date. If your dog appears sick, don’t bring him or her to the office. Dogs who are aggressive or overly shy should not accompany you to work. Instead, consider bringing a favorite picture of your pooch.
4) Prepare a doggie bag.
Include food, treats, bowls, toys, leash, paper towels, clean-up bags and pet-safe disinfectant (just in case). If you are routinely in and out of your work space, consider bringing a portable kennel for your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind.
5) Plan your pet’s feeding times carefully.
Be sure to choose an appropriate area for your dog to relieve himself afterward.
6) Avoid forcing co-workers to interact with your dog.
Dog lovers will make themselves known. To avoid pet accidents, monitor the amount of treats your pet is being given. Remember that chocolate, candy and other people food should not be shared with dogs.
7) Have an exit strategy.
Although most dogs enjoy TYDTWDay, your pet may not. Should your dog become overly boisterous, agitated or withdrawn, consider taking him or her home. Most companies allow for this on TYDTWDay. Never, under any circumstance, leave your pet alone in a vehicle while you work.

To learn all about Take Your Dog To Work Day, bark on the link:   Bark!

Tuesday, June 22

Broadway Sign Battle

I will be the first one to say that I would love to see Broadway cleaned up and restored, just as the Bringing Back Broadway efforts suggest it will.  But I will also be the first to say, I don't want to loose the history that remains there.  Los Angeles Downtown News broke a story about this very thing, specifically focusing on Clifton's Cafe's signage.  This sign has been on their window since 1960, the restaurant has been there since 1939 and now the owner is looking at $30,000 to $40,000 to make all the required changes that the Bringing Back Broadway initiative is forcing.  Basically, some of these city ordinances have existed a very long time but were not enforced, others are new to back the initiative.  The whole point of Bringing Back Broadway is to create a more uniformed look on Broadway and activate the faded theaters. 
It worries me that a movement such as this seems to be exactly what we need to spruce up Broadway, but if it is going to hurt our local businesses to do it, is it worth it?  Surely there is another way to get the same result without requiring the businesses (many that are barely able to make payroll) to pay tens of thousands of dollars.  Please read this entire article, it is informative and you really get the feel of what Bringing Back Broadway is about and how a few of the local business owners feel about it and what it is costing them in time and money.

To view the article, bark on the link:  Bark!

Monday, June 21

Ruby, Ruby, Ruby


I had the pleasure of spending the whole weekend with the sweetest dog, Ruby.  She is so well behaved and is all about getting lots of love!  My cat Cowboy is not as big of a fan of Ruby as I am, but he was starting to warm up to her by the end of the weekend.  He doesn't mind her too much, he does afterall let her sleep in bed with us.  It was a good weekend and it was hard to say goodbye to my houseguest yesterday.  I hope all of you enjoyed your weekend and have a great Monday.  Here are some pictures of Ruby to start your week off right.


To learn more about Bark & Clark, bark on the link:  Bark!

Friday, June 18

Dogs Inherit Miami Heiress Millions


Dogster, for the love of dog blog published a story about a Miami heiress that passed away and left $3 million to her dogs.  According to the article, heiress Gail Posner left $26 million to bodygaurds, personal trainers, housekeepers, and other staff to ensure that her 3 dogs would maintain their lifestyle.  The dogs were awarded $3 million and her biological son was awarded $1 million.  Needless to say he is not happy with this and has filed a lawsuit in probate court.  We will see how this all plays out.
I hope you all ready the full story, it is interesting.
For the full story, bark on the link:  Bark!

Thursday, June 17

Profitable Poo In St. Louis


The Associated Press released a story about a St. Louis, MO man that works for DoodyCalls Pet Waste Removal.  During a routine "pick up" Steve Wilson saw something unusual that caught his eye.  Upon further investigation he saw that there was money packed into dog poo... $58 to be exact.  So he sterilized the money, put it in a Zip Lock bag and gave it back to the rightful owner.  I've never heard of a money-hungry dog before, I guess this is the first. 

For the orginial story, bark on the link:  Bark!

Wednesday, June 16

Best Friend & Helper


Ellie, a King Charles Cavalier, is a very lucky pup!  She was rescued by the RSPCA and was found to be almost blind.  But lucky for her she met Leo, a German Shepard mix,  after she was rescued.  They became fast friends and Leo has acted as her seeing eye dog and protector.  Ellie follows him around and snuggles up to him, on walks he guides her around and herds the more boisterous dogs away from her. 
Leo's owners have adopted Ellie and is now trying to raise money for a much needed eye operation that could restore her vision.  Besides having cataracts, Ellie's eye muscles never developed because she was kept in the dark with no heating.   

To learn more on how to help Ellie, bark on the link:  Bark!

To read the Manchester Evening News article, bark on the link:  Bark!

Tuesday, June 15

Dog Leaves His Mark


The Sun reports that over the weekend Scottish soap opera actor Mark Chamock attended a charity event at the Grampian Country Fair in Aberdeen.  During the event one hound lifted his leg on Mark's.  I guess he really enjoyed the way Mark smelled.
It's always cute when puppies do this, not so cute with full grown dogs...
But it looks like everyone had a good sense of humor about it, Mark may have been just a little grossed out when he felt the wetness on his leg.

For the full story, bark on the link:  Bark!

Monday, June 14

4th Annual Dog Day Afternoon

If you have a dog that is social, leashed and licensed Dog Day Afternoon is the place for you.  This is the 4th year of inviting pooches and their owners to enjoy a day of music, food, mingling and fun at the Cathedral of Our Lady. 
If your dog is not so friendly with other dogs, humans or critters, you should leave your dog at home, but you can come and join in the fun.
I hope you all will support this great Downtown dog event by attending Dog Day Afternoon at the Cathedral of Our Lady on July 27th from 6-9 p.m.

For more information on Dog Day Afternoon or to R.S.V.P., bark on the link:  Bark!

Friday, June 11

Summer On The Plaza

Starting today there is live music in the Bank of America Plaza (333 South Hope Street Los Angeles, CA 90071) from 12:30pm - 1:45pm, the artist performing will be N'DAMBI 
On Wednesday evening the 7th & Fig, Ernest & Young Plaza launched their Summer on the Plaza with Garth Trinidad presents Brilliant Rhythms & Joy feat. A Race Of Angels and Quetzal Guerrero.
So, if you are looking for a way to celebrate summer, you can join in on the fun Wednesday's after work or Friday's during lunch.
For more information on Summer on the Plaza, bark on the link:  Bark!

Thursday, June 10

Good Dental Health For Dogs

I'm sure not everyone that has a dog realizes that their dental health is just as important as it is for humans.  That means getting your dog's teeth cleaned on a regular basis and brushing your dogs teeth regularly.  There is a lot of information out there about what to use to keep your dogs teeth healthy, the key is finding what works for your dog.  There are special toothpastes for dogs because human toothpaste or baking soda can make dogs sick, so make sure you get the right toothpaste before brushing.  Next is to get the proper brush.  There are simple brushes that fit over your index finger with soft bristle, this is usually the easiest to use on your dog unless you have had them since a puppy and got them use to a more traditional looking human toothbrush.  You can also purchase veterinarian recommended kits that will include two types of brushes and toothpaste or gel.  If you have a dog that just will not allow you to brush their teeth, there are other things you can do to encourage good dental health.  There are special diets, treats and chews you can get for you dog, the best thing to do is to consult your veterinarian and make sure you get your dog's teeth cleaned by a professional on a regular basis.
I encourage all of you to consult your veterinarian about your dog's dental health and figure out the best regimen for you and your dog.
For more information on doggy dental health, bark on the link:  Bark!

Wednesday, June 9

A Concert For Dogs

Over this past weekend about 1,000 dogs plus their owners enjoyed a concert outside the Sydney Opera House in Australia.  The concert only lasted about 20 minutes and the music was written especially for the canines, there were notes that only they could hear.  According to the video posted below, the event went well.  All the dogs and people behaved and had a great time.
What a great idea!  Can't you just picture Los Angeles holding their own concert for canines at Disney Hall, I sure can!

To view the video, bark on the link:  Bark!

Tuesday, June 8

Primary Election Day


This is just one more reminder to get out and vote today.  I was at the polls this morning shortly after they opened and was rather disappointed with the turn out.  But was pleasantly surprised at how organized the polling place was and at how quickly I got in and out of there.  You have until 8:00pm tonight to cast your vote.

With all the heaviness of the election and oil spill, I thought we could lighten it up today.  I read this cartoon and it made me laugh... more at myself than anything.  Enjoy!


For more information on Bark & Clark, bark on the link:  Bark!

Monday, June 7

Don't Forget To Vote


Tomorrow is the 2010 California Primary Election, don't forget to get out and exercise your democratic right and vote.  We are voting on everything from State Governor to state measures.  If you are not registered to vote, I hope you will be by the next election, but unfortunately you are too late to register for this one.

The Los Angeles Downtown news ran a story about the election tomorrow and how frustrating or overwhelming it all can be.  It was an interesting article, to check it out, bark on the link:  Bark!

Friday, June 4

How To Help Your Dog Beat The Heat

Summer is here and that means so is the heat.  I promised a few months ago in a blog titled It's Warming Up Outside, to give additional helpful hints on how to help your dog beat the heat.  There were several things mentioned in this original blog, but there is a lot more you can do, especially if you are going to be out on long walks or hikes.

1.  Water!  Water is absolutely key.  Make sure if you are going for a long walk (greater than 30 minutes), especially if it is in the heat of the day, you are stopping every 10 - 15 minutes to give your dog water.  If you are out on a hike, you should be stopping in shade to water your dog and check that they are not overheating.  If your dog has diarrhea or keeps wanting to stop and lie down, turn around and go home or back to the car, the hike is over and your dog is already dehydrated.  There are a few different types of portable and collapsible water bowls, it is really up to you which one you use.  They are very handy to keep in your car, backpack or even in your back pocket.

2.  Protect the paws!  The pads on your dogs paws are very sensitive, though some dogs will develop a natural resistance to hot pavement, gravel or grass, most will have a hard time walking on hot surfaces, especially hot pavement.  You can get dog boots or dog paw protectors to put on your dog and they work well.  However, if you have a dog that doesn't like things going over their feet, you can slather on paw wax before your walk or hike.  If you opt for the wax, beware that you will need to wipe your dogs feet before coming back into the house as it makes a bit of a mess.
















3.  Cool your dog's core heat!  I can't stress the importance of cooling your dog after a walk or hike.  Dogs with a heavy coat are going to need a little extra help cooling their core so they don't over heat, the same goes for dogs with a high drive and dogs that are just heat sensitive.  The best way to cool their core is to put on a cooling vest or have your dog lie on a cooling bed.  This will cool them slowly rather than rapidly and run the risk of cooling them down too fast.
4.  Cool, fun and sweet treat!  Give your dog some doggy ice cream, they will love it (and you).  If your dog doesn't take to the ice cream, you can just give them ice, most dogs find it fun to crunch on the ice and it will help with the cooling.

5.  Pace yourself!  It is really important to set a pace that is appropriate for your dog.  In cooler weather your dog may have a fast pace, in the heat you should slow down a little so they don't tire so quickly or overheat.

I hope these tips will make your summer a little better.  Just remember to think about your dog before you decide to take them with you on your day out.  It is always nice to have them with you during hikes or beach days, but the weather may not make it so nice for them.

For more information about Bark & Clark, bark on the link:  Bark!

Thursday, June 3

What's Up Downtown - June

Downtown LA.com released their What's Up Downtown for the month of June.  It looks like June will be a fun month, everything from great concerts and theatre to the film festival.  I was personally excited to see that Walgreens has finally opened on 7th street.  I hope this helps you find something fun to do Downtown in June!

To view What's Up Downtown for June, bark on the link:  Bark!

Wednesday, June 2

Dogs Trained To Sniff Out Prostate Cancer

The Los Angeles Times reports that French researchers reported yesterday at a meeting of the American Urological Association, in San Francisco, that dogs can be trained to sniff out the unique scent of chemicals released by prostate tumors.
If the research can be replicated, it could have significantly better reliability than standard PSA tests, because of fewer false positives. Out of 66 times, the trained dog in the trials detected correctly 63 times. There were three false positives, and no false negatives. By contrast, most positive PSA tests are false positives (about 70 percent), according to Virginia Commonwealth University.
The sniff test actually doesn’t involve contact with a human. Dogs sniff the urine sample, not a person. Researchers are also studying the possibility of dogs being able to detect lung, bladder, and breast cancers. 

For the full story, bark on the link:  Bark!

Tuesday, June 1

12-Year-Old Basset Fends Off Alligator

Last week Dogster for the love of dog blog published this story about the amazing little 12-year-old Basset in Florida that fended off a 7-foot-alligator.  It happened in a blink of an eye. One second, Lindsay Frame was walking his daughter’s 12-year-old basset hound next to a pond in back of his townhome, and the next second, a 7-foot-alligator “launched” out of the water and grabbed her. “I was just scared. I just started screaming and shouting,” he told WTSP. He says the gator grabbed and released Sophie several times, and once even dragged her underwater.
“I didn’t think she was going to make it,” he said. But somehow the old girl escaped the jaws of death, and swam back to shore (Lindsay didn’t even know she could swim!), with the gator right on her tail. Lindsay started splashing the water with a stick, and scared the gator away. Sophie spent a week at the veterinary ICU because of some nasty gashes, and is now back home, recuperating — on a Florida Gators dog bed, of all things.
Here’s to a speedy recovery, Sophie! 

For the original story, bark on the link:  Bark!