Lennox

Okay, get your tissues ready!  This is just a sad and disturbing story about a dog named Lennox that was taken from his family for no other reason than looking like a Pit Bull.  Remember this is in Northern Ireland and the laws and rules are different than here.  However, I still disagree with what happened and I am very disturbed!

Dogster had the entire story on their blog this morning, so I am re-posting for you to read and watch the video.

Lennox has lost his last chance to escape a death sentence -- just because he looks like a Pit Bull.

A valiant worldwide campaign to save this dog's life has apparently failed, thanks to a court decision this week in Belfast, Northern Ireland. 

Because of breed-specific legislation, Pit Bulls are illegal in Northern Ireland. In May 2010, a 5-year-old American Bulldog-Labrador cross named Lennox was taken from his owners by the Belfast City Council and declared a "danger to the public" simply because he was a "Pit Bull-type dog." Lennox was then placed in a kennel, waiting to be euthanized.

His distraught owners mounted a campaign to save his life. Word spread around the world that Lennox had been microchipped, Safe Pet registered, and DNA registered, and that he was a protective companion to the family's disabled preteen daughter. Even though the DNA registry evinced no trace of Pit Bull in Lennox's ancestry, the death sentence was not removed.

Striving to save Lennox's life, owner Caroline Barnes said in court that the dog had never bitten anyone or misbehaved since being impounded, according to Irish Central.
"She says her dog was never given a chance."

On Tuesday, Barnes' legal team went before the Court of Appeal and three judges to make a final plea. But the judges remained firm, confirming yet again that Lennox will be put down.

"An expert dog handler, retained by the City Council, said Lennox had a severe personality defect, including having a problem with strangers. They added it would be impossible to tell what the dog might do under stress," Irish Central reports.

The court’s statement reads:
“The judge had heard evidence on the issues relating to this dog over a protracted two-day hearing, carefully considered the evidence and the issues, and he reached conclusions of fact which have not been vitiated by any error of law on his part.”

No date for Lennox's destruction has been released, nor will the Barnes family get a chance to see him again before his death, Irish Central reports. We at Dogster HQ think that's just plain cold considering all they have done to rally support around their dog over the past two years.

The following message was posted at the "Lennox Campaign" Facebook page:
"Lennox's family will release a statement in due course once they have had time to absorb today's ruling by Chief Justice Girvan. The family kindly ask all supporters to remain calm and dignified as always in their response to today's sad and very wrong decision by the Northern Ireland Chief Justice. Thank you."

Advocates for Lennox launched a petition on Tuesday. Titled "Boycott Belfast," the petition reads:
"This page is to let Belfast know that animal lovers all over the world are angry and that we will not support them in any way -– EVER. We will never travel to their city –- some will even not come to the country, we will not endorse you in any way. Unless something is done to make this injustice right."

Editor's Note: When we first heard this story, we were hoping against hope for a happy ending for this dog who had done NOTHING wrong. He wasn't even the "breed" they were discriminating against! This is disappointing and disgusting, Northern Ireland, and we're crossing you off our places-to-see list.

Lennox, sweet boy, you won't be forgotten by many of us around the world soon.

Again, I am left with just a sad feeling.  If you think your actions don't matter, they do, get involved to stop this type of discrimination.  It makes me sick that a dog is being put to death because of the way he looks.  I think any dog that has been kept in the kind of conditions Lennox has and has been separated from his family without a kind, loving face for 2 years may be a little off with strangers.  I don't think the test was fair and certainly do not think it was right for this family to be kept from even visiting their dog.

As Dogster already said, Lennox, you will not be forgotten!

Elicia Calhoun and Her Dogs

Yesterday a friend asked me if I had heard about the dog training woman and her dogs.  At the time I had no idea what she was talking about.  With a couple of searches on Facebook, my eyes were opened to the tragedy that occurred on I-10 near Wilcox, AZ in the early morning hours of Monday, June 11th.  Below is the story.

A well-known Valley dog trainer has found her missing dog after a crash in southeastern Arizona killed two others.

Elicia Calhoun's show dog, Tobie, was thrown from her car Monday during a car accident and wasn't seen since. 

According to Amber Abbott in a Facebook group created to help find Tobie, she was found alive around 9 a.m. Tuesday.

"She looks good! She has had a bottle of water and is in Elicia's arm," Abbott wrote. "They are on the way to the vet."

Calhoun said she checked out of the hospital and slept in the desert Monday. Her search started again Tuesday morning with the help of volunteers.

Calhoun fell asleep at the wheel Monday resulting in a crash.

The accident happened early Monday morning near Willcox, roughly 80 miles east of Tucson. 

Calhoun is a nationally known agility trainer based in the Valley.

As of Tuesday morning, roughly 4,600 people had joined the Facebook group. Volunteers said they collected $15,000 to help with the search.

Calhoun said airplanes are flying over the desert to search for Tobie. 

This past weekend she and her dogs were at a competition in Odessa, Texas.

Calhoun was driving home early Monday morning along I-10 near Willcox. 

Her 2007 Hyundai crossover hit an 18-wheeler semi truck and rolled over several times. All six of Calhoun's dogs were ejected upon impact.

Three dogs suffered serious injuries but are expected to survive.

However, a 13-week-old puppy died instantly and two others went missing.

Calhoun checked herself out of the hospital with a punctured lung to go looking for her missing dogs.

Nika, a border collie, was found dead around 7 p.m. Monday. Calhoun says Nika was hit by a car.

Calhoun and her volunteers set up camp on the I-10 until Tobie was found.

"Right now they are my life," said Calhoun on Monday. "I would do anything to get them back. I would trade my life for theirs. I will not leave this area until I know where my dogs are."
You can check out the Facebook group established to help Calhoun find her dogs, or the fundraiser to assist in her recovery. 

Finding Tobie

So, to bring you up to date, all the dogs have been accounted for and besides the two that were lost, they are all recovering well.  As well, Elicia has checked back into the hospital and is resting and recovering.

This entire thing has me thinking, what would I do if this happened to me and my dog.  I totally understand her checking herself out of the hospital and going to find her dogs.  I would do the same thing!  But it also has me thinking about what I need to do in case something like this happens.  For instance, keeping all of Neville's info (including vet records) in my glove compartment and having an emergency kit in my car.  Things I have been say "I need to do", but have yet to do it.

We get comfortable in our routines, but you really never know when something is going to happen.  I am so happy for Elicia that she found all of her dogs, yet I am so sad for her that she lost two.  I can't imagine the pain she is in, but I hope her and her remaining dogs find strength and love together and have a speedy recovery.

3 Hot Tips To Beat The Heat

Though it is June Gloom, the temperature is continuing to rise and the summer heat will be here full time before you know it.  Are you ready to keep your dog cool?  Below are some quick tips on how to keep your pooch cool while you enjoy the heat.

1.  Cooling Accessories!  Not only will your dog look hot, they will be cool!  A cooling vest or bandana are always helpful ways to keep your dog cool while going on hikes or even a day in the park.  The sun and the heated path or park will warm your pooch up quickly along with the physical activity, the vest or bandana will help them beat the heat.  Don't forget to give water and resting breaks in the shade as well.

Cooling Vest

Cooling Bandana

 

 

 

 

 

2.  Pool Time!  On a hot day there is nothing better than getting into some refreshing water, so make your dogs dream come true and get them there very own kiddie pool!  No matter if you have a back yard or you drag it to a park, this is the perfect lounge for your dog.  You only need put about 3-6 inches for your dog to have fun... make sure you supervise them!

 
This can be a solution for those of you that leave your dog in the back yard for the day.  Make sure the pool only has 2-3 inches, it doesn't take much to cool them off and you don't want your pooch to drown.  The pool should also be set up in the shade and your dog should have a dry place in the shade as well and separate drinking water. 

3.  ICE CREAM!!!  This is my favorite way to beat the heat on any day and my dog's!  I am not talking about any ice cream... DOGGIE ICE CREAM!  It is a chance for you and your dog to enjoy almost the same treat and cool down at the same time.  Frosty Paws is the most well known doggie ice cream, but there are all kinds out there and even a doggie ice cream truck!  With any treat this should be served in moderation. 

These are just 3 of many tips I will be giving out as it heats up.  The most important thing you can do is keep your pooch HYDRATED.  Also remember that if you are doing any activity with your dog, give them breaks regularly in the shade and NO DOG SHOULD BE FORCED TO STAY IN DIRECT SUN for extended amounts of time.

Have a question, concern or comment?  Give me a bark!  BARK!

Dogs Saved Los Angeles

Though the debate over dogs living Downtown is still ongoing, about 40% of our residents opt to own a dog.  That's right, 40%!  This article posted on The Atlantic Cities.com and sent to me by a client, outlines the progressive dog movement Downtown and how dogs may have saved this city.  It is a great read and a little bit of feel good news for this Friday.

We know Lassie can save Timmy from the well, but can she also save a neighborhood? In downtown Los Angeles, the answer seems to be yes.

Take a walk through the Historic Core district almost any time of the day and formerly deserted sidewalks are now awash with dogs and their owners. While this may seem like a natural outcome for a hotspot with an influx of residents, it’s actually by design, the result of a planned initiative by landlords to attract new renters.

In 1999, Los Angeles passed its Adaptive Reuse Ordinance, making it easier and cheaper for real estate developers to convert old offices to new housing. While the ordinance arguably jump-started the revitalization of downtown L.A., a key (though overlooked) element was pet-friendly policies in these newly converted lofts.

Walking dogs drove residents out of their homes and into the street at least twice each day. Elsewhere in Los Angeles, where single-family homes predominate, dog owners often have the luxury of sending Fido out to the yard to do his business. But downtown, dogs and their owners have become a crucial component of the rebounding neighborhood's culture.

Real estate developer Tom Gilmore was an early champion of Los Angeles’ downtown revitalization, converting historic buildings such as the San Fernando and Hellman Buildings in the Old Bank District to lofts more than a decade ago. Part of Gilmore’s plan for the neighborhood included an aggressive campaign to attract dog owners, welcoming dogs of all sizes and forgoing a pet deposit.

It was a decision made easier by the concrete floors and thick walls in these buildings, making pet damage less likely to occur. It’s also one that worked: about 40 percent of downtown residents now own a dog, according to the Downtown Center Business Improvement District.

"Random interaction is a key component of a vital urban environment," says Gilmore. Dogs, he reasons, are the "lubricant" that helps residents interact with their neighbors and local shop owners. "Walking out of your door every day should bring a series of unintended events."
Tomoki Echigo, who lives in the Arts District and owns a lab/pitbull mix named Gumbo, finds the influx of four-legged friends has helped build a sense of community. “It helps us get to know our neighbors,” says Echigo, who walks Gumbo four times a day. “It brings the community closer."

Of course, the question of which came first, the dogs or the neighborhood renewal, is debatable. USC Associate Professor in Public Policy Elizabeth Currid-Halkett sees the growth of the canine community downtown as a symptom rather than a cause of revitalization. “Other types of economic development efforts, such as attracting amenities and businesses, revitalizing old lofts, and cleaning up the streets will attract downtown denizens, who will bring their dogs with them," she says. "The accidental spillover effect of these inhabitants, including the small furry ones, does help increase safety just by virtue of the fact that more people increases density and more use of the sidewalk."

Despite the chicken-and-egg conundrum, the influx of dog owners has resulted in grassroots efforts to reclaim public space. In one example, residents converted an empty lot into the Arts District’s Saslow Dog Park.

Likewise, local businesses have embraced canine customers and their owners. One downtown restaurant, Los Angeles Brewing Company, even offers a "dog valet" with free dog sitting services while patrons dine. Gilmore and other downtown developers welcome a dog-friendly downtown. According to Gilmore, the calculus is simple: "happy animals mean happy humans."

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

Family Dog Mistakenly Killed By Officer

I hate to do these types of stories because they are so sad and disturbing, but I also think they are very important to share and allow all of us to know what is happening.  This is not a bashing on police officers, but it is certainly a call for education!  This sad story of how Lillie, the Border Collie mix was shot and killed being mistaken for a Pit Bull by a Fort Worth, TX police officer is below.  Thank you Petside.com for bringing us this story.

Mistaking a black and white Border collie mix breed dog named Lillie for a pit bull and feeling threatened by an oncoming canine attack, a Fort Worth, Texas police officer responding to a call to assist in an investigation of a copper theft shot and killed Lillie. The tragedy occurred right before the disbelieving eyes of Lillie’s owners, Cindy and Mark Boling.

According to a recent article on CW33.com, the couple had just returned home from shopping and was unloading their truck. In their driveway with them were their family dogs, Lillie and Gracie. As they were standing in the driveway, they noticed a police officer walking toward them. Being friendly and trusting dogs, both of them started heading their way to greet the officer.

Mark called out the officer, to let him know that the dogs didn’t bite and were friendly, and he was on his way to get them to put them in the yard. He asked him not to hurt the dogs. Mark was able to catch up with Gracie and grab her collar, however Lillie ran up to the porch where the officer was standing.

In a matter of seconds, before Mark had time to intervene, the police officer drew his pistol and shot Lillie in the back. The critically injured dog ran into the back yard where, sadly, she died within minutes of being shot.

You may be asking what led up to this lamentable event occurring? This tragedy never should have taken place at all.

Due to a horrendous mistake, the police officer arrived at the wrong house. He was given the address 4917 Norma Street, to help in the investigation of the copper theft report. However, in error, he went to the Boling's house instead. Their house number is 4717 which is two blocks away from the house to which he was sent.

A neighbor who overheard the officer talking to another policeman who was at the scene allegedly said he admitted that he was at the wrong house and, fearing that he was about to be attacked by a pit bull, he shot the dog.

No apology was made to the Bolings, who are devastated by their loss. Mark said, "My main concern is if he's going to shoot an animal like that how he is going to react then in a real situation with a weapon.” His wife, Cindy added, "We did everything in the world always to protect our girls. We never accounted for a man walking up our driveway with a gun and killing our little girl, our little Lillie.”

An officer with the Fort Worth Police Department, Daniel Segura’s side of the story, makes matters even more disturbing. His report states that the police officer investigating the copper theft report was on the 4900 Block on Norma, searching for suspects. Seeing Boling, he waited in the driveway, but two dogs suddenly began charging at him, barking aggressively. Although the officer asked the man several times to call off his dogs, (pleading with him to do so), the owner appeared not to be complying. As a result, he had no choice but to fire his “duty weapon”, striking the dog closest to him.

What I can’t get my head wrapped around is how it is possible for anyone to mistake a Border Collie mix with a pit bull, and why this officer just fired at a dog who was only running toward him to greet him.  Why was no apology offered to the Bolings?

This writer feels strongly that in order to prevent a similar tragedy from ever happening again, there is an urgent need for specialized training in handling canines for law enforcement personnel nationwide.

What's Up Downtown June!

Happy June!   This year continues to plow forward on high!  Or at least it feels that way.  Don't forget today is Election Day, don't forget to vote!

Summer has started and there is a lot to do in Downtown!  A few things I look forward to every year are on their way, so don't forget to check out Hope For Firefighters June 7th 11:30 am - 2:30pm, LA Film Fest June  14th -24th, and The X Games June 28th - July 1st.

There are also some fun new business' in the neighborhood, Famima!! on 6th and Broadway, Two Boots Pizza on Broadway and 8th and Industriel French Restaurant on 6th and Grand.  All are great adds!

There are also so many great shows, concerts and fun activities coming, check out the whole calendar by barking on the link:  BARK!

Help A Soldier Get A Service Dog

Dogster posted a blog about a charity to help wounded soldiers get service dogs they badly need.  This is a great cause and it doesn't cost a thing, just a click of your mouse.  I hope you all get involved, the blog is below.

Help a Soldier Get a Service Dog with a Click of Your Mouse

For every 1,000 Facebook, Tumblr, and Pinterest followers Dog Bless You gets before July 4, the nonprofit will donate a service dog to a wounded warrior.

Imagine you're a war veteran who needs help getting around because of a combat injury. You know a service dog could make your life easier, restoring much-needed independence and normalcy, but most service dogs are out of reach for you financially.

Or imagine you're a veteran with PTSD, and you can't function in crowds or when you can't see clearly around you. So you stay home, so you don't have to face the panic attacks at the store or the movies. You've heard about the tremendous help a service dog can be, but you don't have the resources to get one.  

Now imagine you can help these veterans, and not by donating money. All you have to do is click, and a deserving war veteran is one step closer to a life-changing companion. For every 1,000 new Likes on the wonderful Facebook page of organization Dog Bless You gets between Memorial Day and July 4, the nonprofit will donate a service dog to a war veteran.

I've spoken with veterans whose service dogs have given them their lives back. It's so easy to make a huge difference in the lives of these wounded warriors. All it takes from you is one tap of the mouse on the "Like" button of Dog Bless You's Facebook page during its Dog Bless USA Spirit of '76 campaign. (The group will donate up to 76 dogs!) 

I wish I could participate in this social media challenge grant, but I Liked them long ago. This almost makes me want to have many Facebook alter egos so I can Like them all over the place.

The campaign also applies to Dog Bless You's Pinterest and Tumblr pages. For every 1,000 followers on each site, Dog Bless You will donate a dog. 

As of last night, there were enough Likes for five dogs to be trained by excellent nonprofits that specialize in this kind of training. How many lives of wounded warriors will Dogster readers help change? Let's get clicking now! We can make a real difference here.