knoxdogs fall 2010
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Living the dog-gone good life in Knoxville.TRANSCRIPT
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DESTINATIONS | LIFESTYLE | WELLNESS | TRAINING | COMMUNITY
KNOXDOGS.COM | LIVING THE DOG-GONE GOOD LIFE IN KNOXVILLE | ISSUE ONE
KnoxDogs.com
ISN’ T YOUR DOG A PART OF THE FAMILY?
Ta k e h i m t o d i n n e r t o o ! To m & B a r r y ’s h a s a p e t - f r i e n d l y p a t i o !
L u n c h , d i n n e r o r a n y t i m e i n b e t w e e n , w e s e r v e t h e b e s t a p p e t i z e r s , p i z z a , b u r g e r s ,c h i c k e n , f i s h , p a s t a , w i n g s , s a l a d , s o u p a n d g e l a t o p l u s 1 7 b e e r s o n t a p ,
a g r e a t w i n e l i s t a n d a f u l l b a r !
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w i n n e r s w i l l b e s e l e c t e d t o r e c e i v e a $ 2 5 To m a n d B a r r y ’s g i f t c e r t i f i c a t e a n d w i l l a p p e a r i n t h e
W i n t e r 2 0 1 1 K n o x D o g s i s s u e .
T O M & B A R R Y ’ S R E S TA U R A N T7 7 0 6 S . N o r t h s h o r e D r i v e
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Roxie at Tom & Barry’s
FALL 2010 | 1
CONTENT KNOXDOGS.COM | FALL 2010, ISSUE 1
3 TheMostPet-FriendlyCommunityinAmerica Knoxville & Knox County are going to the dogs
4 WorthBarkingAbout Canine News | Charities | Tips & Trends
6 CalendarofEvents
8 KnoxDogsGallery Some of the happiest hounds around town
10 DoingGoodWork An interview with Randy Boyd, Chairman & CEO of Radio Systems Corporation
18 BothEndsoftheLeash An interview with Diane Richards, Owner of Diane’s Canine School of Charm
20 Health&Wellness Canine cancer
22 DogPatch Books | Art | Media
24 CommunityResourceGuide Businesses | Services | Charities
26 LookWhatWeDugUp Cool canine gear
28 HappyTails Second chances for lucky dogs
COVER STORY |
OUTWARD HOUNDPLACES TO PLAY, DINE, SHOP & WALK WITH YOUR DOG
PHOTO: TYLER THOMPSON
PG.14
PUBLISHER’S LETTERWelcome to the premier issue of KnoxDogs! Our quarterly magazine is about living the dog-gone good life in the Knoxville metropolitan area. We hope you enjoy reading about some of the people and places that make this community a great place to be a pet lover.
I grew up in Knoxville, lucky enough to have parents who believed that every kid needs a dog. Our dogs were part of the family. They lived in the house, rode in the car, and like most furry friends in those days, followed us all over the neighborhood. My first dog, Zanna, walked four blocks every day to meet me at grammar school for recess. Like many of you, I don’t know life without a dog.
After some years away, I recently moved back to Knoxville and found that my hometown has become one dog-friendly city. In this issue of KnoxDogs, we’re celebrating some of the things we’ve discovered.
Local government officials, business leaders and animal advocates are behind an initiative to make our community the most pet-friendly in America. Read about the project, along with places to dine, shop and play with your dog on pages 3 and 14.
We should all be barking for Knoxville’s own Randy Boyd. Leading the pack in the drive to make our community pet-friendly, Randy’s creative ideas and commitment to philanthropy are making life in our town better for both humans and animals.
If you and your buddy need to brush up on some canine social skills, consider a stint in charm school. Diane Richards and her staff of trainers at Diane’s Canine School of Charm work miracles on both ends of the leash.
We were surprised to learn what dogs are doing for people in the fight against cancer. The genetic structure of dogs is strikingly similar to humans. New research into canine cancer is improving treatment protocols for people with the disease.
While putting this issue together, we met committed people doing unheralded things for our local dogs and cats. We learned shelter statistics that are heart-wrenching and heard uplifting stories from people who are doing something about it. We’re inspired and energized to help pets and their humans across our community. We hope you are, too.
KnoxDogsLiving the dog-gone good life in Knoxville
KnoxDogs Magazine Fall 2010, Issue 1
PUBLISHER
Peggy Bass Bridges | [email protected]
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Mary Carpenter | [email protected]
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Davy Rudolph | [email protected]
FOR ADVERTISING, PLEASE CONTACT:
Joey Bridges | Sales & Marketing Director
Tel: 865-228-3235
Fax: 865-522-0640
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KnoxDogs
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Knoxville, TN 37919
Tel: 865-804-6688
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KnoxDogs is published quarterly by Zanna LLC. Complimentary copies are distributed
throughout the greater Knoxville metropolitan area and available in select locations. Please
contact us if you would like copies of KnoxDogs placed at your business.
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No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written consent from the publisher. KnoxDogs reserves the right to refuse to sell ad space for any advertisement
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unsolicited submissions.
Please recycle this magazine or pass this issue along to a fellow dog lover.
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FALL 2010 | 3
THE MOST PET-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY IN AMERICA Knoxville & Knox County Are Going to the Dogs
Greater Knoxville digs dogs. We have parks and parades for our canine friends. We dine with our dogs and take them shopping with us. Furry buddies are welcome at movies on Market Square, enjoy their own swim day in a city pool, and sometimes bark at the ballpark for the Tennessee Smokies.
Knoxville/Knox County is the Most Pet Friendly Community in America. Granted, it’s a self-declared title that must be defended, but we’re off to a very official start. In 2009, representatives from the following organizations joined together to mark our territory, declare our title, and announce it to the world on petfriendliestcommunity.com:
Knox CountyCity of KnoxvilleYoung-Williams Animal CenterUniversity of TennesseeKnoxville Area Chamber of CommerceKnoxville Tourism and Sports Corp.PetSafe
Structured as an informal organization, the Most Pet Friendly Community committee meets monthly. Their intent is to foster a ground swell of pet-friendly initiatives led by individuals and businesses throughout our city and county. Particular emphasis is placed on:
• Expanding pet activities and events• Increasing pet-focused tourism• Developing more pet-friendly parks• Encouraging more pet-friendly businesses• Controlling the pet population
In a pet-friendly community, the benefits that animals bring us at home—comfort, laughter and love—are unleashed to extend into public spaces and places of business. Pets are good for the economy, good for tourism and improve a community’s quality of life.
Declaring Knoxville and Knox County the Most Pet Friendly Community in America is a significant step. Now it’s up to us, the human residents, to earn the title and work like dogs to keep it.
Are there any pet-friendly perks that your Knoxville dog would like to have? Send an e-mail to [email protected] and we’ll publish a list worth howling about on behalf of our community’s canines.
WORTH BARKING ABOUTCanine News | Charities | Tips & Trends
Mixed Breed Dogs Now Welcome at AKC EventsThe American Kennel Club has leveled the playing field. Mixed breed dogs registered with the AKC Canine Partners program can now take part in certain sanctioned events.
Known as “All American” dogs, mixed breeds must be spayed or neutered. They can participate in AKC Rally, Agility, and Obedience trials, competing in the same classes and earning the same titles as purebred dogs. The local AKC club hosting an event has the option to accept entries for mixed-breeds.
To look for events that welcome your All American dog, visit www.akc.org/events/search. Click on the “Agility, Obedience, AKC Rally” tab, then check the box for “All American Dog/Mixed Breed.” In the coming months, obedience and agility events that welcome mixed breed dogs will be held in Nashville, Harriman, and Kingsport.
Need a Pet Sitter?We hate to leave our four-legged friends behind when we travel, but sometimes there’s no choice. The East Tennessee Association of
Professional Pet Sitters can be the answer when you need in-home pet care.
When you’re interviewing pet sitters, ask if they’re bonded and insured. You’ll want the sitter to have a contingency plan in the event of inclement weather or personal emergency and access to a veterinarian. Check references and expect an initial visit to meet your pets before you leave town.
Visit etapps.net to find licensed pet sitting businesses in Knox, Anderson, Blount, Loudon, Roane, Meigs, and Sevier counties.
New Knoxville Rescue Group for Golden RetrieversWith public shelters unable to accommodate the staggering number of homeless pets, breed rescue groups are becoming increasingly important to animal welfare. Adopt a Golden Knoxville (AGK), a new Golden Retriever rescue group, will soon join the committed ranks of nonprofit agencies working to save abandoned purebred dogs.
Founder and President Amy Johnston was a volunteer with
Adopt a Golden Atlanta before moving to Knoxville and starting a sister organization here. With the help of Tricia Becker, Dallis Howard and four other founding partners, Amy is creating a 501(c)(3) rescue group that will focus on Goldens that have special needs or are being surrendered by their owners.
By working with owners before a dog is surrendered, AGK can obtain medical records and behavior history. This can result in dogs having faster and more successful placements in new homes. To help with a smooth transition, a free training session will be included in the adoption package for all dogs under four years old.
The website for Adopt a Golden Knoxville will be up in the coming weeks. In the meantime, you can reach the rescue group by phone at 865-742-8693. Their wish list includes foster homes, volunteers and donations to support special needs dogs.
Calling All Senior Rottweilersrottweilerhealth.org/longevity_study.htmlResearchers at the Center for Exceptional Longevity Studies at Purdue University are building the first nationwide database of
KnoxDogs.com
FALL 2010 | 5
exceptionally old dogs. Their goal is to better understand aging and the factors that influence longevity in dogs and humans.
If your Rottweiler is at least thirteen years old (100 in human years!), sign him up to be a “guide dog to the fountain of youth.” The investigators will follow your buddy to see how he fares in his senior years. Other breeds of dogs will be added to the study in the near future.
Kroger Cares & Brown Dog Foundation – An Easy Way to Help Humans and Dogsbrowndogfoundation.orgThe recession has been hard for everyone, pets included. Dogs and cats are being surrendered in record
numbers by people who cannot afford to keep them. In some cases, families having temporary financial hardship are forced to let a pet’s life-threatening illness go untreated. Brown Dog Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity based in Nashville, Tennessee, has been helping people pay for life-saving pet care since 2006. The foundation provides funding for sick pets when their families have experienced a financial setback such as unemployment.Thanks to Brown Dog Foundation and the Kroger Cares program, there’s an easy way to help families who can’t afford medical care for sick pets. It only requires a few minutes of time and a stamp, then you keep doing what you already do – buy groceries.
Here’s how the program works (and a Paws Up for the simplicity of it!):
• You send a $5 check to Brown Dog
• Brown Dog sends you a Kroger’s gift card, preloaded with $5
• You take the card to Kroger’s Customer Service Counter and load it with the amount of money you plan to spend on groceries that day
• You shop• Kroger’s sends Brown Dog
Foundation 4% of everything you spend
• Keep loading the card, keep buying groceries, and Brown Dog keeps helping sick pets
KnoxDogs.com
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
NOVEMBER 2010The Humane Society Inc. Flea MarketSaturdays, 10 am – 1 pm372 Warehouse Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37830For more information or to learn about making donations to the flea market, call 865-381-1550.
HABIT – An Animal-Assisted Therapy Program Informational MeetingMonday, Nov 1 6:30 pm – 8:30 pmRegistration begins at 6 pmGrace Baptist Church, 7171 Oak Ridge Highway, Knoxville TN 37931Contact the H.A.B.I.T office at [email protected] or at 865-974-5633 if you would like to attend.
University of Tennessee Vet School Pet Loss Support GroupTuesday, Nov 2, Nov 16 & Nov 30; 6:30 pm – 8 pmFamily Room, UT Veterinary Hospital, 2407 River Drive, Knoxville, TNIf you are interested, call 865-755-8839 or visit www.vet.utk.edu.
Oak Ridge Kennel Club Monthly MeetingTuesday, Nov 4; 7 pmThe Soup Kitchen, 47 Tennessee Avenue, Oak Ridge, TN 37830For info, visit O.R.K.C. at discoveret.org/orkc.
Great Smoky Mountain Cluster AKC All Breed Conformation Shows and Obedience TrialsThursday - Sunday, Nov 4 - Nov 7Chilhowee Park, Knoxville, TN 37914For more info, visit smokymtncluster.org.
Noah’s Arc Adoption EventSaturday, Nov 6 1:30 pm - 4:30 pmAgri Feed Pet Supply, 5716 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37921
Tennessee Valley Golden Retriever Rescue Adoption EventSaturday, Nov 6 10 am – 1 pmAgri Feed Pet Supply, 5716 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37921For more information, visit TVGRR at tvgrr.com.
University of Tennessee Vet School Vet Social Work Art GroupTuesday, Nov 9 & Nov 236:30 pm – 8:30 pmSmall Animal Conference room, UT Vet SchoolFor more information, email Dr. Elizabeth Strand at [email protected].
American Red Cross First Aid for Cats & DogsSaturday, Nov 13 9 am – 12:30 pmYoung Williams Animal Center, 3201 Division
Street, Knoxville, TN 37919For more information, contact the Knoxville area American Red Cross chapter at 865-584-2999.
English Springer Rescue America Adoption EventSaturday, Nov 13 10 am – 12 pmAgri Feed Pet Supply, 5716 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37921For more information, visit English Springer Rescue America at springerrescue.org or call 865-386-3059.
Grainger County Humane Society Spay and Neuter ClinicTuesday – Thursday, Nov 16 – Nov 18Bean StationCall Aimee at 865-767-3706 between 9 am and 8 pm for information.
East Tennessee Border Collie Rescue Adoption EventSaturday, Nov 20 10:30 am – 1 pmAgri Feed Pet Supply, 5716 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37921Email Suzanne West at [email protected] or visit ETBCR at bordercollierescuetn.com for more information.
Smoky Mountain Great Dane Rescue Adoption EventSaturday, Nov 20 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Agri Feed Pet Supply, 5716 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37921For more information, visit Smoky Mountain Great Dane Rescue at loveadoptplay.org or call 877-647-6437.
DECEMBER 2010The Humane Society Inc. Flea MarketSaturdays, 10 am – 1 pm372 Warehouse Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37830For more information or to learn about making donations to the flea market, call 865-381-1550.
Oak Ridge Kennel Club Monthly MeetingTuesday, Dec 2; 7 pmThe Soup Kitchen, 47 Tennessee Avenue, Oak Ridge, TN 37830For info, visit O.R.K.C. at discoveret.org/orkc.
Tennessee Valley Golden Retriever Rescue Adoption EventSaturday, Dec 4 10 am – 1 pmAgri Feed Pet Supply, 5716 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37921For more information, visit TVGRR at tvgrr.com.
University of Tennessee Vet School Pet Loss Support GroupTuesday, Dec 7 & Dec 216:30 pm – 8 pm Family Room, UT
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We’ve moved! Come visit our new store at 6400 Kingston Pike.
F R E E I N D O O R S H I E L D S($149.95 value)
with new system purchase.*
*Offer expires 1/31/11. Cannot be combined with any other offer.
Knoxville Animal Clinic is under new ownership
Drs. Steve Skinner and Tinsley Youmans
Open HouseSaturday, November 20, 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Welcoming Clients, Homberg/Bearden Neighbors and Friends!!
5312 Homberg Drive (right behind Backyard Burgers)Knoxville, TN 37919
865-584-1588
DOOR PRIZES DRAWN EVERY HALF HOUR!(Ipods, signed Titans football, cute animal wear and more)
Look us up on Facebook and at www.KnoxvilleAnimalClinic.com
Veterinary Hospital, 2407 River Drive, Knoxville, TNIf you are interested, call 865-755-8839 or visit www.vet.utk.edu.
English Springer Rescue America Adoption EventSaturday, Dec 1110 am – 12 pmAgri Feed Pet Supply, 5716 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37921For more information, visit English Springer Rescue America at springerrescue.org or call 865-386-3059.
Grainger County Humane Society Spay and Neuter ClinicTuesday – Thursday, Dec 14 – Dec 16
Bean StationCall Aimee at 865-767-3706 between 9 am and 8 pm for information.
University of Tennessee Vet School Vet Social Work Art GroupTuesday, Dec 14 & Dec 286:30 pm – 8:30 pmSmall Animal Conference room, UT Vet SchoolFor more information, email Dr. Elizabeth Strand at [email protected].
East Tennessee Border Collie Rescue Adoption EventSaturday, Dec 18 10:30 am – 1 pmAgri Feed Pet Supply, 5716 Middlebrook Pike,
Knoxville, TN 37921Email Suzanne West at [email protected] or visit ETBCR at bordercollierescuetn.com for more information.
JANUARY 2011The Humane Society Inc. Flea MarketSaturdays, 10 am – 1 pm372 Warehouse Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37830For more information or to learn about making donations to the flea market, call 865-381-1550.
East Tennessee Border Collie Rescue Adoption EventSaturday, Jan 15 10:30 am – 1 pm
Agri Feed Pet Supply, 5716 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37921Email Suzanne West at [email protected] or visit ETBCR at bordercollierescuetn.com for more information.
Grainger County Humane Society Spay and Neuter ClinicTuesday – Thursday, Jan 18 – Jan 20Bean StationCall Aimee at 865-767-3706 between 9 am and 8 pm for information.
Visit KnoxDogs.com for more event information.
KnoxDogs.com
KNOXDOGS GALLERYSome of the happiest hounds around town
1. Roxie Loved by Tom & Angie
2. Maggie Loved by Kelly & Steve
3. Milo Loved by Dylan, Aubrey, & Katelyn
4. SmileyEyes Loved by Glo
5. Zoe Loved by Sara & Kevin
6. Charlotte Loved by Aunie, Brent, & Benjamin
7. Sky and Achilles Loved by Abel
8. Roscoe Loved by Flossie
9. Bria Loved by Lea
10. Jasper Loved by Kathleen
Add your favorite pooch to the KnoxDogs
Gallery by submitting a photo to knoxdogs.
com/knoxdogs-gallery-submit by Dec 1st.
Pictures will be posted on the KnoxDogs
website. Ten lucky winners will also be
selected to receive a $25 Tom and Barry’s gift
certificate and a spot in the Winter 2011 issue
of KnoxDogs.
1.
2. 3. 4.
5. 6.
7.
9. 10.8.
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FREETRIAL CLASS
906 Callahan Drive588.2105
KnoxDogsComing in the Winter 2011 issue
- Service dogs are in the H.A.B.I.T of helping humans
- Cold outside? Indoor activities to keep your buddy busy
- Canine agility is a sport that gets everyone moving
Candy Finley-BrooksCeramic Sculpture
Portraiture in Watercolor & Fine Pencil 865-609-8400
PHOTO: DAVY RUDOLPH
KnoxDogs.com
An interview with Randy Boyd, Chairman & CEO of Radio Systems
Spend some time talking with Randy Boyd, Chairman and CEO of Radio Systems Corporation, and you’ll leave inspired to do something, however large or small, to give back to your hometown. Randy grew up in Knoxville, graduated from Doyle High School and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville and started Radio Systems here in 1991. With a contagious enthusiasm for philanthropy, youth education and animal welfare, Randy says that he could never give back all that his hometown has given him.
He’s grown Radio Systems into a multi-million dollar company that manufactures and sells more than 6,000 pet-related products under brand names such as PetSafe, Invisible Fence and Sport Dog. Already holding more than 300 existing and pending patents, Radio Systems introduces more than 200 new products per year and has its sights set on generating $1 billion in annual revenue by 2015.
Randy believes that philanthropy is part of his responsibility. His generosity ranges from donations that offer solutions to specific problems to visionary efforts that could have broad social or scientific impact. Here are just a few examples of his charitable giving:
• Randy is a major donor to the University of Tennessee’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and a founding member of KnoxAchieves, a program to provide college funding for Knox County public high school graduates. He
DOING GOOD WORK
Randy Boyd, Chairman and CEO of Radio Systems Corporation
FALL 2010 | 11
donated technology in the form of electronic smart boards to his former grammar school, New Hopewell, and funded a pilot program for at-risk children at Pond Gap Elementary.
• Radio System’s PetSafe brand funded the Chair in Veterinary Behavior at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. One of the few veterinary school behaviorist positions in the country, the goal is to improve the bond between humans and companion animals through research and instruction.
Better understanding of animal behavior issues such as excessive barking and aggression may reduce the number of animals that are surrendered to shelters.
• To reduce the number of domestic pets that die in fires each year, Invisible Fence brand started Project Breathe with the goal of equipping every fire station in the U.S. and Canada with pet oxygen masks. More than 1700 kits containing a small, medium and large mask have been donated so far.
Practical solutions and visionary goals are also part of Randy Boyd’s plan to make our community the most pet-friendly in the country. He’s the driving force and $500,000 donor behind the initiative that is changing life for pets and their humans in Knox County.
KnoxDogs recently caught up with Randy at Radio Systems headquarters to find out more about the Most Pet Friendly Community in America effort.
KnoxDogs: What inspired you to start the Most Pet Friendly Community project?
Randy: It started with a dinner at PetSmart Charities four years ago. Every year the CEOs of all the larger companies in the pet industry are invited. It’s a typical charity event -- golf during the day, then an auction and dinner in the evening.
At the dinner, the Executive Director of PetSmart Charities gave a speech. This particular year, it was a very positive speech about all the improvements that have been made in animal welfare around the country. Then she concluded by saying “There’s a lot of work to be done. There are still backwaters in the world, like Arkansas, Alabama, and Tennessee.”
I wanted to crawl underneath my table. My friends and peers in the room knew that I’m from Tennessee. In the animal behavior world choices are made between fight and flight. In my case, did I want to fight? To say this is wrong, I’m proud of my hometown and you can’t say that? Or did I want to take the flight approach? Just run and pretend it didn’t happen.
So I came home and did some research. Much to my dismay, I found out that she was right. Tennessee is one of the worst states for animal welfare. Then drilling down to my home community, Knox County is also one of the worst in the country. We euthanize 12,000 dogs and cats every year.
So that was the impetus behind the idea – recognizing that we had to do something. There were multiple options.
1. We could come back from that PetSmart dinner, ignore it and just do nothing.
2. We could come back and talk about making some kind of incremental change.
3. We could set a significant goal. We could say “Let’s go from worst to first. Let’s create a vision that people will rally to.”
We decided to create something that’s inspirational. We thought that being the most pet-friendly city in America was a visionary goal. Next, we had to create some action around it. We brainstormed with Mayor Ragsdale, who was very supportive
“Pet ownership builds bonds between people. The more we can get people with their pets out in the community, the better it is for our society as a whole.”
KnoxDogs.com
of the idea. He helped bring in people from the park system and Knoxville tourism. Young-Williams Animal Center joined the project as well as some of our friends from UT.
We created this group that became known the Most Pet Friendly Community initiative. It’s very informal and there’s no board. The committee is made up of representatives from Young-Williams and very caring citizens in the community who get together and create ideas. We have several subcommittees. One is focused on pet adoptions, one on pet events, and one focused on parks.
KD: What has been accomplished so far?
RB: We’re creating the new animal adoption center on Bearden Hill that focuses on adoption and spay and neuter. Our partner and driving force behind the facility is Young-Williams. We’ll hopefully increase the demand for adoption and it’s a direct shot at the pet over-population issue.
The pet-friendly initiative is not only about adoption and spay and neuter, although that’s the most important. We can create a lot of fun events, too. Some of the things we’ve done with the city of Knoxville are organize pet parades and pet movies on Market Square. We’re going to have more pet parks than any other community in the country before it’s done. We’ve already opened three and have two more planned and I can tell you it’s not the end. We’ll be continuing on.
We also got involved in the push to allow dogs on restaurant patios. It’s hard to be the most pet-friendly community with signs everywhere that say “no dogs allowed.”
Having dogs on restaurant patios seemed like a simple idea, but it turned out that there was a state law against it. This was my first ever attempt at the business of lobbying. We had great support in Jamie Woodson and Tim Burchett. They got a state bill passed that allows cities and counties to permit dogs on restaurant patios if they choose to do so. Knox County and the city of Knoxville approved it and I’m excited to see more restaurants picking up on the idea.
As a committee we just want to be a spark, not a controlling interest in making Knoxville and Knox County
a pet-friendly community. We hope to encourage a ground swell of pet-friendly initiatives. I’m hopeful that people are doing random things throughout the county and as a result, we will be the most pet-friendly community in America. Today, it’s an aspiration. We want to legitimately claim the title.
KD: What is the biggest hurdle to being the most pet-friendly community?
RB: The biggest challenge we have is awareness. One of the things that the pet-friendly initiative can do is to just educate our community. If we can raise the visibility, we can make a difference.
I think if people knew that we’re euthanizing 12,000 dogs and cats in Knox County annually, if they knew this isn’t normal, if they knew that there were opportunities for them to make a difference, they would get involved and take action. In east Tennessee, our statistics are probably on average, but nationally, there are other communities that import dogs because they don’t have enough adoptable pets.
KD: What is your vision for the initiative? Where do you want it to be in five years?
RB: The dream is that Young-Williams Animal Center’s primary job would be to import dogs from other communities to meet the demand for adoptions. Instead of euthanizing 12,000 dogs and cats each year, Young-Williams would be importers for adoptable pets. That is the most important metric.
PetSafe’s newest dog park at the corner of Summit Hill Drive and Central Avenue
FALL 2010 | 13
In addition, I hope that if surveys were done around the country about pet friendly communities, it would be unquestionable in every case that Knox County is number one. It would be a result of all the fun activities we have for pets, the places that welcome pets, and the number of parks and other places you can take your pet.
At Radio Systems, dogs are allowed every day at work. There are always at least a dozen dogs in the building and sometimes even a dozen dogs per floor. It’s a wonderful thing,
not just for the dogs but for the associates who work here. It’s hard to have a bad day when you have a pet coming over looking for a treat.Having pets in the workplace is very good for moral. If there are businesses out there who would consider it—even if they don’t necessarily care about animal welfare—they should adopt the practice. They’ll have a more productive workforce.
KD: How do humans benefit from having a pet-friendly city?
RB: One of the things I’ve heard many times about the pet parks is that they’re great for the pets and they’re great for the people. When you go to a dog park, your dogs are playing with other dogs. There’s something special about the bond that you have with your pet and other people have with their pets. It gives you an immediate common interest. You strike up conversations and make connections with other people in the community.
Pet ownership builds bonds between people. The more we can get people with their pets out in the community, the better it is for our society as a whole.
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DOING GOOD WORK
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OUTWARD HOUNDPLACES TO PLAY, DINE, SHOP & WALK WITH YOUR DOG
COVER STORY
FALL 2010 | 15
You’ve probably heard the expression “all hat and no cattle.” That’s not the case in our Tennessee town! In the greater Knoxville metropolitan area, we don’t just bark about being dog-friendly, we deliver the biscuits. Check out these great places to walk, play, dine and shop with your best buddy.
WALKS FOR HOUNDS & HUMANS
Knox County has miles of trails and greenways to lure you and your buddy outdoors for some fresh air and exercise. If you haven’t explored our superb park system lately, you’ll discover a new hiking trail at a downtown wildlife sanctuary and miles of paved greenways.
Ijams Nature Center2915 Island Home Avenueijams.org
When you’re yearning for the Smoky Mountains but only have an hour, Ijams Nature Center is the answer. Few cities can lay claim to miles of dog-friendly trails and spectacular views just five minutes from downtown. A 275-acre wildlife sanctuary, Ijams is a local jewel.
A new section of the park, Ross Marble Quarry, opens in November and features rugged terrain, rock bridges and beautiful vistas. Take a hike through Mead’s Quarry and be proud of the Tennessee marble that was extracted from our backyard and now adorns the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. You and your buddy will love the trails and the extensive boardwalk along the river.
Lakeshore Park6414 Northshore Drivewww.ci.knoxville.tn.us/parks/lakeshore.asp
This sixty acre park has beautiful views of the Tennessee River and Smoky Mountains. Be prepared for some hills on the 2.25 mile paved walking/running trail. Mae Presswood enjoying downtown Knoxville
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OUTWARD HOUND
Greenways: Bearden Village / Third Creek / Sequoyah / Neyland cityofknoxville.org/greenways
Knoxville has more than 40 miles of paved greenways. They connect neighborhoods, link parks and historic sites with each other, and often follow natural land or water features. The greenways at Bearden Village, Third Creek and Sequoyah
Park connect to form nearly ten miles of trails in west Knoxville. Both the Bearden Village and Third Creek greenways begin on Forest Park Boulevard near Sutherland Avenue. Leashed dogs are welcome on these trails as well as the Sequoyah Greenway, 2.6 miles in the median of Cherokee Boulevard. The Sequoyah Greenway joins Third Creek at Cherokee and Kingston Pike.
The Neyland Greenway begins near Summit Hill at the bridge over First Creek. Convenient for downtown residents and their dogs, this three mile greenway runs parallel to the Tennessee River, along Volunteer Landing and continuing past Thompson-Boling Arena and Neyland Stadium. It connects with Third Creek Greenway near the UT Veterinary School.
OFF THE LEASH IN DOG PARKSpetfriendliestcommunity.com/knoxville_dog_parks.aspx
Tails are wagging for the city, the county and PetSafe, an international company based in Knoxville. PetSafe has pledged $500,000 and partnered with Knoxville and Knox County to build parks in the greater metropolitan area where canines can safely and legally run free. You’ll find agility courses and swimming holes in some of the parks and happy hounds in all of them!
PetSafe Village Dog Park10424 Electric AvenueNatural pond; full set of agility equipment; benches and tables; dog water fountain.
Dogwood Park at Victor Ashe Park4901 Bradshaw RoadSome agility equipment; one acre for all sizes of dogs; dog water fountain.
PetSafe Dog Park at Tommy Schumpert ParkFountain City RoadSeparate areas for small and large dogs; water with dock; benches; dog water fountain.
Katie Merrell, her dog Jeter, and Shanise Whitaker on Market Square
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OUTWARD HOUNDPetSafe Downtown Dog ParkCorner of Summit Hill Drive & Central AveSeparate areas for small and large dogs; dog water fountain; benches and pavilion.
Coming in 2011
Concord PetSafe Dog ParkLocated behind the Concord Park Par 3 Golf Course. Three acres; access to water; separate areas for large and small dogs; shaded structures and walking trails. Target completion date is spring 2011.
PetSafe Plumb Creek Dog Park1517 Hickey Road, south of Lovell RoadPart of Plumb Creek Master Plan.
DINE WITH YOUR DOG
Going out to eat has never been more enjoyable for dog owners in Knoxville and Knox County. The French Market on Gay Street was the first restaurant to apply for the Dogs on Patios permit in January 2010 and more than 25 establishments have followed suit. Show your support for their pet-friendly attitudes by patronizing these restaurants.
• Agave Azul Mexican Grill and Tequila Bar
• Barley’s Taproom• Chez Liberty• Chick-Fil-A• Cool Beans Restaurant & Tavern• Coolato Gelato• Downtown Grill & Brewery• Downtown Grind• French Market• Gourmet’s Market• La Costa• Latitude 35• Mellow Mushroom• Ollantay’s Havana Nights• Oodles
• Pelancho’s Mexican Grill• Preservation Pub• Rick’s Place Neighborhood Sports Bar• Rita’s Italian Ice• S & W Grand• Sapphire Knoxville• Shonos in the City• Soccer Taco• Tom and Barry’s• Tomato Head• Trio Café• Urban Bar & Corner Café• Veg-O-Rama
To obtain a permit or to learn the Dogs on Patios rules, call the City of Knoxville (865-215-2083) or Knox County Business License office (865-215-2392). Permits are a one-time fee of $20.
SHOP WITH YOUR BUDDY
In Knoxville, shopping with Fido goes far beyond the usual haunts. Besides pet stores, businesses that cater to humans with clothing, canoes, books, eyeglasses and more welcome leashed, well-mannered canines. Turn mundane errands into an afternoon of fun with your buddy at these dog-friendly establishments.
• Black Market Square• Blue Ridge Mountain Sports• Carpe Librum Booksellers• Earth Traverse Outfitters• Luttrell’s Eyewear• Mast General Store
Is your place of business pet-friendly? May customers come in with leashed, well-mannered dogs? Do you or your employees bring dogs to work? If the answer is yes, then bark about it in KnoxDogs.
Send an e-mail to [email protected] and let us know if your business is going to the dogs!
KnoxDogs.com
An interview with Diane Richards, Owner of Diane’s Canine School of CharmHave you ever wondered how our favorite college mascot, Smokey, can be so well-behaved in the middle of 100,000 boisterous fans in Neyland Stadium? Meet Diane Richards, who’s been training the University of Tennessee Bluetick Coonhounds−along with thousands of other Knoxville dogs−for more than fifteen years.
A lifelong dog lover, Diane started her career in the medical field. After graduating from college with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, she was a Registered Nurse in hospital intensive care and cardiac surgery units. One day Diane found herself on an unexpectedly long and grueling shift. “By the time I got home, my dog had been waiting indoors for me for 24 hours without making any mistakes. I was in tears about leaving him for so long. I decided it was time to find something else to do.”
She had been taking her dog to obedience class at a training school on Bakertown Road in west Knoxville. Learning that the facility was up for sale, Diane did what most of us only dream about. At 45 years old, she took one giant leap of faith. After borrowing $3,000 from her mother, $10,000 from a friend and cashing in her 401K, Diane left her nursing job to buy the business and follow her passion for training dogs.
The leap paid off (and one year later, so were the loans). In business since 1994, Diane’s Canine School of Charm has grown to include a wide range of classes along with grooming services. In addition to basic obedience, the school offers advanced obedience classes, beginning and advanced agility, special instruction for puppies, and conformation classes. Clients can choose from private lessons, group classes, or resident training programs
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where dogs live with Diane for two weeks, going back and forth from her home to the school.
Diane’s dog training philosophy emphasizes respect, kindness and compassion. “Dogs naturally want to learn,” she says. “The best way to teach them is with positive reinforcement. If you want a dog to exhibit a certain behavior, then make it worth his while. Put something in the deal for him. Most dogs will do just about anything for a treat.”
The six trainers at the Canine School of Charm are skilled enough to compete in obedience and agility trials. “If trainers are able to compete, they’re able to problem-solve,” says Diane. “Problem-solving is a critical skill for obedience work.” All of her trainers use positive methods, rewarding dogs with praise and treats.
Grooming services were added to the mix in 1997. Only all natural shampoos with no detergents are used – the same products that Diane uses on her own dogs. “Our groomer, Chuck Valentine, is terrific. He has shown dogs in Europe, has 25 years of experience, and very gentle hands.”
When clients bring their dogs to the Canine School of Charm, the initial step is an evaluation by a trainer. With years of experience under her belt, Diane studies three things when she meets a dog for the first time. “First, I look into the dog’s eyes. What does his expression say? Are his eyes sweet or soft? Are they fearful, critical, or do they have a hard stare?” A look at the dog’s
posture and attitude completes the canine evaluation. Is he relaxed? Is his body loose? Is his tail wagging?
Next, the human side of the equation is assessed. What problems are they having? How much time does the family have for the dog? Does the dog come in the house or live outside? Which family member will be the primary trainer? The results of the evaluation help to structure a training plan that meets the needs of both the dog and the owner.
Many of the dogs that are brought in for beginning obedience class are out of control to one degree or another. They jump up on people, they don’t come when called, or they just ignore their owners altogether. “Family members,” Diane says, “especially children, can’t enjoy the dog because he lacks basic manners. He’s like a Mack truck.”
Diane often finds that owners are inconsistent with commands or expectations or just don’t ask enough of their dog. “Dogs need jobs, they need something to do. To a dog, training and obedience work are jobs.” In some cases, the breed of the dog isn’t a good fit for the family. “Each dog’s personality is different and each breed, including mixed breeds, has different characteristics. It’s important to choose a dog that fits your lifestyle, then match training techniques to his temperament and breed.”
Besides training family pets and UT mascots, Diane has a special place in her heart for dogs that need a fresh start in life. Partnering with Young-Williams Animal Center, she takes in
two or three dogs at a time that are up for adoption at the Center. The dogs live with her for two weeks, learning to sit, lie down, come when called, and walk on a leash. These lucky charm school graduates, many of whom were surrendered for common behavior problems, go to new homes as well-mannered pets.
Diane has three dogs of her own – two Golden Retrievers and an Irish Setter. As she does with all dogs, she respects their intelligence and loves their desire to please. “My dogs are always glad to see me and they never have a bad day. I can’t imagine not having a dog.”
According to Diane, the best part about her job is seeing the “light bulb go off” when a dog understands what you want him to do. “You can almost see the dog smiling. He’s happy, his owners are happy, and I’m happy knowing that I’ve helped them both.”
For information on training or grooming services, contact: Diane’s Canine School of Charm2405 Bakertown RoadKnoxville, TN 37931865-539-0778dianescanineschoolofcharm.com
“Dogs naturally want to learn.
The best way to teach them is with positive reinforcement.”
KnoxDogs.com
CANINE CANCER
HEALTH & WELLNESS
We share many things with our dogs, such as the desire for pleasant company, nutritious food and soft places to sleep. We also share the biology of certain diseases, including diabetes, epilepsy and cancer.
Genetic research has shown that humans and dogs share a core set of DNA. Many of the same genes involved in canine cancers are also involved in human cancers. The most common forms of the disease in dogs—lymphoma, bone cancer, breast cancer, bladder tumors, leukemia, brain tumors and sarcomas—are also common in people. Cancer behaves in biologically similar ways in both populations.
The paths of cancer progression and responses to treatment protocols
are so similar in dogs and humans that research discoveries in one species can be applied to the other. According to Francis S. Collins, M.D., Ph.D., former director of the National Human Genome Research Institute, “The dog genome provides a powerful tool for identifying genetic factors that contribute to human health and disease.”
Connecting the ResearchThe study of canine cancer is now being used as a comparative model for research into human cancer. Bringing together the work of veterinary clinical oncologists, medical oncologists, the pharmaceutical industry and cancer scientists, comparative oncology has become increasingly important in the field of cancer research. Discoveries in canine cancer are
leading to identification of cancer-associated genes in humans, better understanding of environmental risk factors, and faster assessment of treatment protocols. Among the many formal research efforts underway is the Comparative Oncology Program established by the U.S. National Institutes of Health. Under the auspices of the National Cancer Institute, well-organized canine and human clinical trials are sharing data and providing pathways to cancer treatment for humans and dogs.
Canine Cancer StatisticsBreakthroughs in cancer research can’t come soon enough for our best furry friends. About ten percent of the 65 million pet dogs in America are diagnosed every year with spontaneous, naturally occurring
TOP TRAINING TIPSCourtesy of Diane Richards, Diane’s Canine School of Charm
Be sure that you have time for a dog. Dogs need time and attention, not a life alone in the backyard.
Choose a dog that is right for your family and your home situation. Understand the characteristics of a breed before you select a dog. A mixed breed dog may exhibit traits of several breeds.
Start early. Obedience training is for both puppies and adult dogs. Puppies are like sponges, soaking up anything you can teach them. Older dogs can learn new things, too. There’s no age limit.
If you rescue a dog, enroll in a group obedience class. Group classes help with focus and socialization.
Reward good behavior and train with treats. Treats help make a dog want to do things for you.
Be consistent in your commands and your expectations. Always treat your dog with respect and kindness.
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cancer. One in four dogs greater than two years of age will die of cancer. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, cancer is the cause of nearly half the deaths of dogs ten years and older.
Dogs of all breeds, including mixed breed dogs, can be struck with cancer. Some breeds, however, have a higher incidence of cancer, including Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Pugs, Rottweilers, Greyhounds, Scottish Terriers, Flat-coated and Labrador Retrievers, and English Springer Spaniels.
Prevention is KeyPreventative steps and early detection are as important for canine cancer as they are for human cancer.
1. Spay your dog before her first heat, reducing chances of mammary cancer by 99%.
2. Neuter your male dog to prevent testicular cancer.
3. Don’t smoke around your dog.4. Limit the use of herbicides on your
lawn.5. If your dog spends a lot of time
outdoors, provide a shaded area for sun protection.
6. Provide your dog with fresh water, a nutritious diet and plenty of exercise and attention.
7. Do a physical exam on your dog monthly, checking for lumps, abnormal swelling, limping, weight loss or excessive thirst or urination.
Cancer Warning Signs These warning signs could indicate medical issues far less serious than cancer, but still warrant a prompt visit to your veterinarian.
1. Unusual swelling or lumps, especially those that keep growing or change in texture or shape
2. Swollen lymph nodes3. Loss of appetite4. Difficulty in eating or swallowing5. Unexplained weight loss6. Persistent lameness7. Loss of stamina or lack of interest
in exercise8. A dry, non-productive cough9. Sores or wounds that do not heal10. Offensive odor, especially from
the mouth11. Bleeding or discharge from any
body opening12. Chronic vomiting or diarrhea13. Difficulty breathing, urinating or
defecating
Fight Like a DogThe fight against canine cancer leads to discoveries about the disease that benefit both dogs and humans. You can help by supporting one of the many organizations dedicated to cancer research.
Morris Foundationmorrisanimalfoundation.org
Animal Cancer Foundationacfoundation.org
National Canine Cancer Foundationwearethecure.org
American Cancer Societycancer.org
Many of the same
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KnoxDogs.com
I THOUGHT YOU WERE DEADPETER NELSONA hack writer with a
drinking problem and
relationship issues has one
constant in his life, his old
dog Stella. We should all
be lucky enough to have a
dog that talks back, gives
good advice, and calls
us out when we’re being
schmucks. You won’t be
able to put this one down.
ART OF RACING IN THE RAINGARTH STEINBoth wildly funny and
heartbreaking, this book
reveals the marvels and
absurdities of life from a
dog’s point of view. Enzo
is convinced that he has a
human soul and that “when
a dog is finished living his
life…his next incarnation
will be as a man.”
WALKING IN CIRCLES BEFORE LYING DOWNMERRILL MARKOEDawn Tarnauer’s life isn’t
exactly a success story. A
meddling sister, eccentric
mother and lousy boyfriend
make her turn to her pit-
bull mix from the pound as
her only source of sanity.
This quick read has biting
humor, clever dialog and
zany characters.
HOW ROCKET LEARNED TO READTAD HILLSChildren will love the
artwork and dialog in
the story of Rocket and
the little yellow bird who
teaches him to read. Words
like m-u-d and d-i-g are
perfectly illustrated in the
colorful pictures. For ages
4-7.
ART
DOG PATCHBooks | Art | Media
CANDY FINLEY-BROOKSKnoxville native Candy Finley-Brooks
has been creating art as long as she
can remember. She comes by her talent
naturally, following in the footsteps of her
mother who was also an artist. Painting
with watercolor, Candy creates large scale
commissioned portraits of both people
and animals. Her smaller pieces are done
in pencil and colored pencil, ranging in size
from 5”x7” to 11”x14”.
Constantly exploring new media and
techniques, Candy developed an interest
in clay five years ago. Her colorful, stylized
ceramic sculptures of dogs reflect her love
of animals and passion for including them in
her work. Rescuing and caring for dogs are
an important part of life for this artist. She
and her husband share their home with four
Greyhounds who undoubtedly inspire some
of her art.
You can find Candy’s artwork at The
Southern Market, 5400 Homberg Drive,
Knoxville, along with contact information if
you’d like to commission a portrait.
Shyloh by Candy Finley-Brooks
FALL 2010 | 23
SPARKMAN & ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS, INCORPORATED3991 MIDLAND AVENUE KNOXVILLE, TN 37919 PHONE (865)584-9885 FAX 584-9766
www.sparkmanarchitect.com
MEDIAPet Insurance Review petinsurancereview.com
We love well-designed websites that are full of useful and current content. Throw dogs in the mix and we’re hooked. The goal of Pet Insurance Review is to help pet owners shop for pet insurance. There are no ads on the site, nor is the site owned or controlled by any pet insurance company. You’ll find detailed reviews of pet insurance plans, information on pricing, product comparison charts, and tips on purchasing a policy.
Google Pedometergmap-pedometer.com
You’re tired and Rover is worn out. You know your walk was longer than usual, but how many miles did you really go? Check out this Google site for an easy-to-use online pedometer. You’ll find yourself mapping walks you’ve taken, walks you’re planning, and walks that may require cab fare to get back!
Pet Industry Jobsanimaljobhunter.com
Looking for a job in the pet industry? This site has the goods, with listings for jobs such as veterinary technicians, groomers, kennel managers and sales reps.
Healthy Stuffhealthystuff.org
Keep your best friend safe from hazardous chemicals that may be found in beds, chew toys, collars, leashes and other pet products. This organization tests products for hazardous chemicals, listing results by type of chemical and level of concern (low, medium or high).
An App Worth Havingpedigree.com/03Adoption/iphone_landing.aspx
Shake & Bark is a free iPhone app from Pedigree guaranteed to help humans with separation anxiety. Just record your dog’s bark, then shake your phone and play it back whenever you’re missing your buddy. Fetch it from the Pedigree website.
Advertise in KnoxDogsReach pet owners across the greater
Knoxville area
Joey BridgesDirector, Sales & [email protected]
KnoxDogs.com
Pet-Friendly Merchants
Blue Ridge Mountain Sports4610 Kingston PikeKnoxville, TN 37919865-588-2638brmsstore.com
Carpe Librum Booksellers5113A Kingston PikeKnoxville, TN 37919865-588-8080carpelibrumbooksellers.com
Earth Traverse Outfitters2815 Sutherland AvenueKnoxville, TN 37919865-524-0000xgo1.com/ETO
Luttrell’s Eyewear5030 Kingston PikeKnoxville, TN 37919865-588-4052luttrellseyewear.com
Mast General Store402 South Gay StreetKnoxville, TN 37902865-456-1336maststore.com
Dining – Dogs on Patios
Agave Azul Mexican Grill & Tequila Bar4405 Kingston PikeKnoxville, TN 37919865-212-9966 agaveazulmexicangrill.com
Barley’s Taproom200 East Jackson AvenueKnoxville, TN 37915865-521-0092barleystaproom.com/knoxville
Chez Liberty5200 Kingston PikeKnoxville, TN 37919865-330-9862chezliberty.com
Chick-Fil-A7063 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37919865-588-0100chick-fil-a.com
Cool Beans1817 Lake AvenueKnoxville, TN 37916865-522-2539coolbeansbar.com
Coolato Gelato524 South Gay StreetKnoxville, TN 37902865-971-5449coolatogelato.com
Downtown Grill & Brewery424 South Gay StreetKnoxville, TN 37902865-633-8111downtownbrewery.com
Downtown Grind418 South Gay StreetKnoxville, TN 37902865-544-7751
French Market526 South Gay StreetKnoxville, TN 37902865-540-4372thefrenchmarketknoxville.com
Gourmet’s Market5107 Kingston Pike SWKnoxville, TN 37919865-584-8739shopgourmetsmarket.com
La Costa31 Market SquareKnoxville, TN 37902865-566-0275lacostaonmarketsquare.com
Latitude 3516 Market Square Knoxville, TN 37902865-566-0721latitude35.com
Mellow Mushroom2109 Cumberland AvenueKnoxville, TN 37916865-687-4766mellowmushroom.com
Ollantay’s Havana Nights137 South Gay StreetKnoxville, TN 37902865-525-2600ollantays.com
Oodles20 Market SquareKnoxville, TN 37902865-521-0600oodlesuncorked.com
Pelancho’s Mexican Grill1516 Downtown West BlvdKnoxville, TN 37919865-694-9060pelanchos.com Preservation Pub28 Market SquareKnoxville, TN 37902865-524-2224preservationpub.com
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
FALL 2010 | 25
Rick’s Place Neighborhood Sports Bar1537 Downtown West BlvdKnoxville, TN 37919865-693-4028ricksplacesportsbar.com
Rita’s Italian Ice26 Market SquareKnoxville, TN 37902865-673-4888ritasknoxville.com
S & W Grand516 South Gay StreetKnoxville, TN 37902865-566-9801swgrand.com
Sapphire Knoxville428 South Gay StreetKnoxville, TN 37902865-637-8181sapphire-knoxville.com
Shonos in the City5 Market SquareKnoxville, TN 37902865-544-5800
Soccer Taco9 Market SquareKnoxville, TN 37902865-544-4471soccertaco.com
Soccer Taco6701 Kingston PikeKnoxville, TN 37919865-588-2020soccertaco.com
Tomato Head12 Market SquareKnoxville, TN 37902865-637-4067thetomatohead.com
Trio Cafe13 Market SquareKnoxville, TN 37902865-246-2270trio-cafe.net
Urban Bar & Corner Cafe109 North Central StreetKnoxville, TN 37902865-546-2800urbanbarknoxville.com
Veg-O-Rama1204 North Central AvenueKnoxville, TN 37917865-540-8346veg-o-rama.com
Spay & Neuter Clinics
Animal Works3377 Regal DriveAlcoa, TN 37701865-379-2227animalworkstn.org
Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley Fix-A-Pet10421 Chapman HighwaySeymour, TN 37865865-579-6738 humanesocietytennessee.com/fix-a-pet.html
Planned Pet-Hood3699 Harriman HighwayHarriman, TN 37748865-882-9966
PPAW Spay/Neuter Clinic (People Promoting Animal Welfare)6869 Morganton RoadGreenback, TN 37742865-856-7729ppaw.us
Sevier County Humane Society Animal Shelter959 Gnatty Branch RoadSevierville, TN 37862865-453-7000
Young-Williams Animal Center Spay ShuttleKnox County865-215-6677
Spay Tennessee1-866-355-SPAY (866-355-7729)spaytennessee.org
Visit KnoxDogs.com to find more pet-related and dog-friendly businesses located in Knoxville and surrounding counties.
KnoxDogs.com
If your dog walks you instead of the other way around, it may be time for an
equipment change. We tested two products that can turn your leash-pulling
best friend into a model walking partner.
LOOK WHAT WE DUG UP
HeadcollarsHeadcollars are a training tool designed to mimic a communication technique that mother dogs often use on puppies. Soft pressure is applied to the bridge of the dog’s nose, controlling forward movement by redirecting his head.
We saw seven headcollars in action when we met up with the Smoky Mountain Great Dane Rescue group at their weekly Dane Playdate & Walk. Watching this herd of hounds walk
politely with their headcollars made us believers in this deceptively simple device.
As with all training tools, you have a job to do on your end of the leash. Introduce your dog slowly to any new equipment, using praise, food or toys as reward immediately after a desired behavior occurs.
You and your dog can join Great Danes and their foster parents for a walk in a local park every Tuesday evening. This community event is a great way to meet fellow dog owners, share training tips and advice, and socialize your pup. Check the Smoky Mountain Great Dane Rescue website (loveadoptplay.org) for walk locations and information about adoptable Danes that need good homes.
HeadcollarAroon, rescued when she was 11 weeks old and now a representative for Smoky Mountain Great Dane Rescue
FALL 2010 | 27
www.carpelibrumbooksellers.com
Easy Walk HarnessCharlie, adopted from Young-Williams Animal Center
Easy Walk HarnessUnlike traditional harnesses that actually encourage pulling, the Easy Walk Harness has a front-chest leash attachment that stops pulling by tightening slightly across your dog’s chest and shoulder blades. The gentle pressure steers your dog to the side and redirects his attention towards you. Because the chest strap rests low across the breastbone, the harness doesn’t cause gagging or choking.
Easy Walk Harnesses come in multiple sizes. The knowledgeable staff at AgriFeed Pet Supply on Middlebrook Pike helped us select the right one for our canine tester.
This classy canine loves his new accessory and now we’re walking him!
KnoxDogs.com
Happy TailsSecond Chances for Lucky DogsWhen Elizabeth Schonagen spotted an elderly dog wandering loose in her neighborhood, it was clear the Collie was on his last legs without any hope. Already the parents of an Australian Shepherd and two cats, Elizabeth and her husband Randy had no plans to expand their family. Her PhD studies in German and Randy’s business, Earth Traverse Outfitters, keep them busy enough. But something about this dog instantly struck a chord in Elizabeth. Making a split second decision, she gathered him up and took him home. After their diligent search for an owner proved fruitless, the Schonagens gave this lucky buddy a name—Etchells—and a permanent spot on their couch.
Seven months later, KnoxDogs met Etchells on a Saturday afternoon at Earth Traverse. Looking happy and healthy, he seemed to glide rather than walk across the floor. He approached us gently and quietly, as if to say “If you need a dog to pet, I’m here for you.”
KnoxDogs gives a Paws Up to Elizabeth and Randy Schonagen for being there for Etchells.
KnoxDogs: How did you rescue Etchells?
Elizabeth: One morning while walking our Aussie, Lincoln Log, I saw a dog loping toward the road from a neighbor’s driveway. This neighbor was out getting his newspaper and asked me if the dog was mine. I said no, that I thought it was his. For whatever reasons we both felt the urge to act, so he ran inside and got me a leash, and then Lincoln and I went on the chase.
Etchells was already halfway down the road, but there was no question in my mind that I was going to help him. To be honest, I think I caught him in the midst of his “wandering off to die” stage. He was a walking skeleton, matted fur, head hanging and resigned. Something about him connected with me deep inside. I thought, “You poor old man. If you’re going to die, do it in my back yard where it’s nice.”
I knew Etchells was from a home environment because he was already acquainted with the sound of a doorbell and the word “walk,” which makes his ears perk up and his old eyes light. Our intense search to find an owner came up empty, and after being in our care for seven months, he’s simply a majestic animal. Our veterinarian estimates that Etchells is nine or ten years old. He’s just happy to have a home.
KD: How did he get his name?
ES: Etchells is named after a long, elegant racing sailboat. Just like the Etchells sailboat, our Etchells gracefully flows when he moves but needs a lot of room to turn around!
KD: Does he have any special talents?
ES: He has the most magnificent grunts when he lays down. They’re proportional in length to how tired he is. It always makes Randy and me laugh.
KD: Does Etchells have a favorite spot at home?
ES: On the couch. If we’re there, he’s on our laps. His nickname is Kitty Cat.
KD: What’s his favorite treat or snack?
ES: Etchells’ guilty pleasure is cleaning up the leftover wet cat food.
KD: What is your favorite activity together?
ES: He loves walks. I’m amazed that someone would give up such a good dog. He actually walks right next to me, as opposed to our anxious Aussie who has to lead the way.
{Q&A}
KD: You love Etchells because…
ES: He has the longest nose and is the most unique looking dog I’ve ever seen.
KD: If Etchells had a six-word memoir, what would it be?
ES: “A home with love is everything.” Being with us has changed him so much.
KD: Final thoughts?
ES: I’ve passed up other dogs, many a dog, but in this one there was a connection. Etchells also gets along with my Aussie, Lincoln Log, so really, in the end, he completes our family. What people say is true – the animal chooses you. When it’s the right match, you will feel it in your heart.
Give an older dog the best years of his life
According to the ASPCA, senior dogs are usually the last choice for shelter adoptions and are often euthanized before younger animals. The irony is that older dogs can make the best pets. They generally require less exercise and supervision than younger dogs, making them a good fit for many families. With mature mental abilities, senior dogs learn quickly and can adapt well to new environments.
They haven’t lost their love of life, their affection for humans, and their desire to have a home.
If you can open your heart and home to a senior canine citizen, visit the KnoxDogs Directory (KnoxDogs.com) to find a local shelter or rescue group.
Give an older dog the best years of his life
Elizabeth and Randy Schonagen with Etchells
FALL 2010 | 29
Reading “Knox Dogs” is a great to have!H.A.B.I.T. (Human Animal Bond in Tennessee) welcomes Knox Dogs to our pack.
Contact: [email protected] Visit us at www.vet.utk.edu/habit 2407 River Dr. Room A205 Knoxville, TN 37996-4543 P. 865-974-5633, F. 865-974-5386
H.A.B.I.T is a community-based, volunteer program of The University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, providing animal-assisted activities and visitation to:
• Nursing Homes• Assisted-living Residences• Retirement Centers• Elementary & Middle Schools• Rehabilitation Facilities• Hospital Settings
We are always on the lookout for new volunteers and their pets. For more information visit us at www.vet.utk.edu/habit or check out our Facebook page at “Human Animal Bond in Tennessee”.
We’d be happy to welcome you and your animal companion to our pack, too!
habit_4cAD 1 10/19/10 2:13 PM