Some flea and tick control products may do serious harm to pets and possibly to humans. On March 17, 2010, the EPA issued a report on flea and tick treatments and urged consumers to be extra careful when using them. The agency announced plans to develop stricter testing and evaluation standards for these products, new restrictions on product use, and better warning and labeling requirements.

The EPA’s report follows an alarming increase in adverse pet reactions to flea and tick treatments. Reports of bad reactions to these products have increased dramatically in recent years, from 28,895 reports in 2007 to 44,263 reports in 2008. Pets’ reactions have run the gamut from mild to severe and include skin irritations, vomiting, seizures, and in some cases, death. According to a 2009 ASPCA report, cats’ reactions tend to be worse than those of dogs.

Last year the EPA did a study of “spot on” treatments (in which a concentrated dose of a product is applied directly to a pet’s skin) and concluded that:

• Smaller dogs (10-20 pounds) suffered more harmful health effects than larger dogs. Small dog breeds most affected were Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas, Bichon Frises, Pomeranians and Dachshunds.
• Consumers need to be aware of and follow correct dosages when using these products on pets.
• It’s dangerous to use products designed for dogs on cats.
• Current product labels warning against using dog products on cats are not sufficient.

The bottom line? Flea and tick treatments contain chemicals – pesticides and in some cases, known carcinogens. Some of these chemicals can be toxic to pets and humans, especially children. To date the EPA hasn’t advised consumers to avoid certain products or formulas. However, the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has an on-line guide that provides a safety rating for products by brand name and advises which ones to avoid completely.

If you are going to use pest control products on your pets make sure to:

• Consult with your vet about the safest options.
• Read product labels carefully and follow instructions for use.
• Know your pet’s exact weight and use the correct dosage for your pet.
• Never use dog products on cats and vice versa.

The NRDC also offers these non-chemical tips for flea and tick control:

• Flea comb your pet regularly with a special fine-toothed comb designed for the job, and rinse the comb in soapy water in between strokes.
• Bathe pets regularly using soap/shampoo designed for pets.
• Wash pet bedding in hot water once a week.
• Vacuum your home regularly and frequently, including furniture, carpets, rugs, floors and crevices. Immediately after vacuuming, empty the canister or discard the vacuum bag so fleas and ticks don’t reinvade your house.
• Keep grass and shrubbery clipped short in yards and outdoor areas to keep flea and ticks to a minimum.

The other day a young boy asked me if I believe in miracles. After I said yes, he asked if I’d ever witnessed one. I told him I’d think about it and get back to him.

I have thought about it and yes, miracles surround me every day – they’re called dogs! Dogs help people in a myriad of ways and have done so for eons. Service dogs help the blind, deaf and disabled navigate the world more safely and confidently. Dogs alert people with epilepsy of imminent seizures. Search and rescue dogs can mean the difference between life and death for disaster survivors. Dogs in law enforcement locate bombs and drugs, routinely putting their lives on the line for humans. Dogs work as sentries, guards, herders of livestock, hunters, retrievers and sled pullers.

That’s not all. Like other pets, dogs bring healing to people in all sorts of animal assisted activities and therapy programs. Dogs help trauma victims open up and begin the recovery process. Dogs help people regain motor control and cognitive functioning. Dogs brighten the days of the elderly, the sick and the infirm. Dogs comfort kids with autism and help them relax. There are even dogs that serve as courtroom buddies for kids who must testify; having a dog on the witness stand with them helps the children feel more comfortable as they attest to their (often disturbing) stories.

Pet dogs are our companions and friends, playmates and keepers of secrets. They give their lucky guardians love, comfort, affection and joy. Whether you’re young or old, sick or depressed, exhausted or feeling fine, the love of a dog makes most of us feel better.

Dogs give so much and ask so very little of us in return. Sadly, humans fail dogs and other animals again and again. Humans abuse animals, send them to battle fronts and throw them into fighting rings. Wild animals are imprisoned and displayed in cages and circuses. Their habitats are destroyed or the animals are killed so tusks, paws and teeth can be turned into trophies. Dogs and other animals are used as test subjects for chemicals and drugs. Many people give more thought to caring for their cars than they do for their pets.

And yet, dogs don’t give up on us. How do creatures who’ve been so mistreated by humans still manage to love, play and shower us with affection? How do they manage to trust any human ever again? It’s a miracle when you stop and think about it. Equally miraculous is the joy and love pet dogs bring to their people every single day. If dogs and other animals are capable of extending such generosity towards us, what compassion and kindness might we be capable of showing them if we all set our minds to it?

This year I honor and thank all animals everywhere for all they do and have done for us. I send deep gratitude and appreciation to animal welfare advocates, shelter workers, rescuers, caretakers, foster givers, defenders of wildlife, and people everywhere who love their pets and are kind to animals.

Ghandi once said, “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” With that in mind I send out my fervent wish and hope that one day ours will be the greatest of worlds – one in which no creature is enslaved or abused or unwanted, and all creatures are loved, respected and cherished.

Every time you’re kind to another creature, you change the world for the better. Big woofs to all you wonderful critter lovers and best wishes for safe and happy holidays to you and your furry friends!!

My dog Vinnie is a young Kelpie mix we adopted when he was a wee 4 months old. We’ve never had his DNA tested but I’d bet my last dollar he’s all herding mutt. He’s got the high energy, drive and smarts of a herding dog. And over the summer, he passed his herding instinct test with flying colors.

Vin checks out a dog park

Given his often maniacal energy, getting him plenty of off-leash exercise every day is a top priority at my place. Vin needs lots of room to run and play with other dogs or he makes his own fun in our home, usually in ways we don’t appreciate.

Thanks to Vinnie we’ve explored loads of off-leash spots in San Francisco. Here are his top 5 favorite play areas in no particular order. Four paws up for every one!

1. Fort Funston. Whether you choose to wander the trails and hike the dunes, or head all the way down to the beach, this is an enormous slice of doggy heaven. It’s a wonderful place for humans to visit too. While dogs galore race all about, you can admire gorgeous coastal views, check out weekend hang gliders, scout out sand dollars on the beach or watch for wildlife. I’ve spotted hawks, whales and dolphins here! This place is so big that you can’t see it all in a single visit. Visit often and choose a different route each time. You’ll feel like you escaped the City and your dog will adore you for it. A solid recall is a must as this “park” is unfenced. There are doggy water fountains on the main paved trail and in the parking lot.


Glorious leash-free Ocean Beach

2. Ocean Beach. You may not realize it, but two stretches of Ocean Beach are open to leash-free pooches. They are the area south of Sloat Boulevard and a much larger area north of Stairwell 21. The larger area is Vinnie’s favorite because there’s loads of room to break into a full out gallop. This beach is unfenced so make sure your dog is trained to come to you when you call him. Bring your own water and some for your pup as there are no water fountains.
3. Upper Douglass Dog Park. This park is tucked into the hills overlooking Noe Valley at Douglass and 27th. It’s fenced except for the narrow entrance. Besides a large flat 3-acre grassy field, there are steep rocky outcroppings at one end of the park where nimble and fleet-footed canines scramble up and down. Hike a hidden trail that ascends the rocks in one corner and weaves among the tall trees overlooking the park, and you’ll feel like you’re in a forest, far from the City. Big rocks and tree logs make nice spots to perch while your pooch plays. This park has a dog water fountain. The City and Bay views from just outside the park are lovely.

4. St. Mary’s Dog Park. If your dog is still honing his recall skills, this park’s for him. It’s fully-fenced so you can relax, big enough for chase, fetch and frisbee, but not so big that you won’t be able to find him. You won’t find gravel or hard-packed dirt here. Most of the park is lush grass where dogs love to roll and frolick. Shrubbery and trees create natural hide-and-seek pockets for dogs who are so inclined. This park is located at Murray Avenue & Justin Drive and has a dog water fountain.
5. Stern Grove. Many people don’t realize that Stern Grove’s not just for humans. It’s got a couple of leash-free dog parks. The best and largest is the Pine Lake play area, located off of Crestlake and Vale in San Francisco. At 3.3 acres,it never feels crowded even though it’s heavily-used by dogs in the know. A paved path that loops around the huge grassy expanse provides a nice jogging or walking route and a welcome alternative to standing around while your dog plays. This park’s not enclosed, but it sits in a deep natural valley and is far enough from streets that you needn’t worry about your dog running into traffic. There are two dog water fountains and free parking in the adjoining lot.

If you’ve never visited these parks, get out there now while the days are still on the longer side. Don’t forget to take poop bags. And if there are other “4 paw” SF dog parks your pooch loves, by all means, post a comment and let us know about it.

If you’re about to adopt your very first dog, you’re probably a little overwhelmed at the variety of dog stuff out there on the market. Every toy, collar, and chewie out there screams, “If you buy nothing else, buy me!”

Hopefully this post is about to make things easier for you. Read on for a list of Top New Dog Gear You Didn’t Know You Needed.

I’m not talking about obvious stuff like food and water bowls, grooming equipment or health care supplements your vet should tell you about. This list is for the things you may not have thought of, but will make your life with a new dog easier in countless ways:

1. Non-retractable leash. Retractable leashes give your dog plenty of room to wander, but in busy urban areas, a non-retractable leash is safest and easiest to manage. It’s also the easiest type of leash to work with when teaching Rover leash manners.
2. Front-clip Anti-Pull Harness. Accept no imitations or wanna-bes. True anti-pull harnesses attach to the leash by a ring located at the center of Rover’s chest. It’s this mechanism that reduces pulling on leash and Iditarod behavior. I like the SENSE-ation and SENSE-ible Harnesses made by Softouch Concepts. Premier makes the anti-pull Easy Walk Harness.
3. Bitter Apple. This non-toxic harmless spray is a great aid in training Rover what’s OK to chew and what isn’t. I’ve sprayed it on wood furniture, fabric and carpets, and never had a problem with staining. Dogs don’t like the smell so they naturally avoid surfaces sprayed with Bitter Apple.
4. Anti-Icky Poo. This cleaner contains enzymes that eat the bacterial residue indoor potty accidents leave behind. It’s essential for potty training your new dog. The enzymes remove any trace of the pee, poop or vomit, making it less likely that your pet will be attracted to the same spot for additional potty events.
5. Crate. Yes, you can train Rover to like hanging out and sleeping in his crate. If you’re wondering why you’d bother, there are a host of reasons. The crate is an invaluable tool for potty-training. It doubles as a secure spot for Rover to sleep. You’ll know he’s safe and your house and belongings are safe from him, so you’ll sleep better. A crate also makes a safe and handy carrier for car rides. It should be big enough for Rover to stand comfortably, turn around and lie down in. A thick fluffy blanket makes the crate comfy and warm.
6. Microchip. Dogs get lost. Dogs have a higher chance of making it back home when they can be easily identified and linked to their humans. Microchips injected under Rover’s skin provide a permanent form of ID. When your lost pet is picked up by local animal shelters, the first thing they’ll do is scan him for microchip information. Talk to your vet about microchipping and remember to keep your registration and contact info current.
7. Safe travel gear. The vast majority of our nation’s pets travel unrestrained in vehicles. Not only are they at risk of death/serious injury in a crash, they can become life-threatening projectiles in collisions, and can slow rescuers’ efforts to help other passengers. As if that weren’t enough, unrestrained Rovers can cause accidents by blocking a driver’s view or disiracting drivers. There are all sorts of vehcile pet barriers, crate restraints, and seat belts on the market. BarkBuckleUp reviews and recommends safe pet travel gear.
8. Waste bags. Scoop Rover’s poop. It’s smelly, unsightly, and unhygienic to have around. It attracts vermin and hosts parasites. Not scooping the poop gives all dogs and their people a bad name.
9. Portable baby gates/dividers. These are indispensable when teaching Rover house manners. Portable gates/dividers make it easy to section off a doggy-proofed area of the home that will be Rover’s den until he learns proper house manners.
10. Say it isn’t so. I’m already at 10! This is a tough one and I’m torn between food puzzle toys, long term chewable treats, and enrollment in a positive reinforcement training class. This is a trainer’s blog though so I must go with the positive training class enrollment. Don’t wait for bad habits to set in. Those are hard to change. It’s so much easier to teach Rover polite manners from the get go. Too often, dogs are abandoned or relinquished at shelters for “behavioral problems” that could have been avoided or modified through positive training. The vast majority of those animals are euthanized. Do yourself and Rover a favor. Train him positively, and train him early.

Have fun shopping for your furry friend! And congratulations on your new addition!