Big Paws Only Dog Forums
Newfoundlands => Newfoundland Discussions => : Newf Lover June 17, 2005, 10:03:18 AM
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It's street fair and farmer's market time here in Cali and we love bringing Drake to these fun events. Unfortunately, and it seems it's just in our county, they don't allow dogs at public events. We take him anyway, because that is just rediculous. We took Drake to the Art, Wine and Music festival last weekend here in Novato and of course, we got mobbed. One volunteer walked up to my wife who was talking to a Newf lover, interrupted her with an "AHEM" and shoved a No Dogs Allowed sign in her face. I laughed because she replied, "Sorry, he's not a dog, he's a Newf"! So we continued on, stopping constantly so people could gush and molest Drake, which was great! We love sharing him with others and the positive reaction we get. Then a cop walked by us with his daughter and she screamed, "Oh Daddy, look at the doggy"! She runs up to give Drake a hug and he goes into cop mode. "Uh, there's no dogs allowed and it's posted at every entrance, you have to leave!" We were like, ok, just give us a minute to peel your daughter off our dog and then to tell this growing line of people who want to pet and talk about him that we are leaving! It was so freaking rediculous! Does anyone else have to deal with this stupid issue? What is the logic behind it? People love big dogs and want to be around them. It is overwhelming how people will go out of their way to just be able to pet and talk about them. A few months ago, George Lucas himself pulled up next to us and began baby talking Drake who was hanging his head out the window.
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It's really too bad!...There are no pets allowed at any of our public parks...Unfort unatly irresponsible dogs owners have paved the way for this kind of thing...Sadly enough I have a feeling it will never be undone.
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It is very sad to see this happen. We get more and more rules and regulations that have to be abided by. Did you get to vote on that "no dogs allowed" law? Of course not. It is shoved down our throats. I thought this was a free country. WRONG
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Long Island is just about the same there are some places that allow dogs but for the most part a lot of "no dogs". I like to go to the beach with the dogs, theres a leash law in NY which is fine by me, but there are still people who feel the law doesn't apply to them, those are the people who mess it up for others.
Carolyn
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When we moved to Michigan in 2002, we were very surprised to find that not only were there not a lot of off-leash dog parks, but that you could not even take your dog on-leash to a public park. The nearest dog park to us was about 45 minutes away, and we got there as often as we could. There was talk at that time shutting it and others down... Honestly, in the nieghborhood in which we lived, there were tons of dogs in backyards, but almost none out on the streets. People would look at us as if we were insane whenever we gave our dogs their nightly walk through the neighborhood
This was quite a change for us from the San Diego culture where you could take your dog many places, and there were tons of dog parks, beaches, etc. Our dogs were used to going every day, at least in summer when it was light enough to take them after work.
Of course, now that we are back in dog-friendly San Diego, I have Ranger who is awful and can't be trusted at the dog park. Figures! :D
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I hate that too. We have just given up and decided not to fight signs that say no dogs, but I love your solution Ryan. We will have to do that next time we got to some even that says no dogs.
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Thank goodness that there is a beach here that allows dogs. They are supposed to be on leashes, but the "dog community" has sort of taken over. The beach is part of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, so its owned by the federal government. But, since parks aren't a huge priority for this administration, they are sort of short-staffed. Hence, there isn't much patrolling by the rangers. Its basically a leash-free dog beach governed by the dog owners themselves. Everyone knows their own dogs, and makes responsible decisions about leashing/not-leashing. And, everyone cleans up. So, my Newfie mix Cabeza is a happy boy and can go swimming and hiking whenever he wants!!!
However...the city itself is not very dog friendly...I could go on for hours about it..but, I'll spare ya! I used to live in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. That place was great! I could take my doggies to the bar, to the video store, some restaurants and lots of shops. Talk about dog-friendly! I can't wait to get back to a community like that!
Part of the problem in my community as well is the HUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUGE Pit Bull fighting problem. It makes it hard for all of us responsible dog owners to be taken seriously when there are trained fighting dogs running around all over. It makes me so sad. Last night, this kid was walking by my house with a TEEEEEEEEEENY Pit bull puppy and he was like, "You want her? I can't take care of her." Well, of COURSE I took her! I was not going to let her become a fighter!!!! AAGH. Its too bad that those kinds of human wastes exist.
Kinda long...sorry! Thanks for the rant....
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im glad you got the puppy instead of the kid keeping it though! you just saved a fighter nicole! way to go!
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Here around Charlotte, or at least in the area where we live, we have several parks you can bring your dog, on a leash. All the playgrounds are no dogs allowed though, but in the bigger parks they usually have playgrounds too, so we can bring both two and fourlegged kids. We go to noth myrtle beach quite a bit, and their beaches are usually good with dogs too, in laws have a condo with beach front, and the beach right outside there, you see people walking with dogs all day long, but I dont think the dogs are allowed in the water during "lifeguard" hours. But before and after they can have a blast.
Marit
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Well after reading this I did searching on line and called city hall to double check the regulations here.
In Maine dogs are allowed in ALL parks or beaches as long as they are not privatly owned...then it is up to the owner. I was told a few weeks ago by the director of a campground near us that dogs were not allowed to swim in any body of water anywhere in Maine unless you owned the water yourself. I found out today that this is NOT TRUE! Privat beaches can post no dogs on beach, but not public ones. So my babies can go swimming. I also found out that my city does not have a leash law. Your dog much either be on a leash OR within voice control...so as long as your dog can hear you and will obay your commands with reasonable reliability they can be walked off leash anywhere in the city. In most of the rest of the state there is a leash law. I'm actually impressed with how dog friendly our state is. We have a folk festival every year and dogs are allowed there as well as any other public events. And most hotels here allow dogs too.
So I can't bring my fur kids to the mall or out to dinner... that's about it really.
Oh, and in the actual city of Bangor a person can not have more than 3 dogs over the age of 6 months old unless they are a breeder, vet or shelter. I guess I've reached my legal limit!!
Vicki
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Vickie, last Fall we were tooling around the countryside in Maine. We found a beautiful lake and went down to the beach to take photos. Since we live so far away, we did not have any of our dogs and this is more about Maine laws anyway. There was a sign posted that said exactly this "Please do not feed the ducks or swimmers will get swimmer's itch". After laughing histerically, we took a photo of it and still can't figure out what swimmers itch is and how it is connected to ducks. Please help us.
Peggy
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You are a lucky puppy owner vicki. Go do some swimming with your dogs....
I do like the idea of a no leash law, as long as it is not violated. Unfortunately a no leash law, also means that all the dogs people let run loose, all over the place feel in more right to do so. Here in Union county where I live they dont have a leash law, and every time you talk to other rescue workers or The Human Soc. they say that had we only had a leash law, it would have been easier. I dont know if that would make the people who obviously dont take care of their dogs to change, probably not. But I can see both good and bad with a no leash law. Me for one would love it, for me and my dogs.
I know I would love to let my dogs run loose when we go to the beach or the park so much more fun for them than being on the end of a leah with a slow moving mom in the other end :P
Marit
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We are fortunate to live in a "dog friendly" area. I 've taken my Newfs to our local mall and in to all the stores (Abercrombie is the ONLY one with an issue...why is that? Most of their clothes are already ruined ;D) and most of the stores keep cookies for the dogs behind the counter. At one time, the security guards suggested NOT allowing dogs and the dog owners banded together almost like magic and said that they would be fine NOT shopping at there if the dogs couldn't come. No dogs....no dog people! I make a point of buying only from the stores that allow my dogs in! I don't even like Neiman Marcus...but they allow dogs, as do Saks, J Crew, Restoration Hardware, Home Depot, Armstrong Nursery etc. It's truly a case of love me...love my dog!
At our local park, we have people who let their dogs run off lead...and are so responsible about cleaning up after them...and encourage people with families to come and meet the giants so when a neighbor protested against having the dogs off lead, the dog lovers came forward for us. We pay taxes too and it's unfair to limit our where we can go with our best friends!
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LOL I can see that this would be funny to an "outa statah"!
There is a connection... let me explain.
Ducks (as well as geese, gulls, swans, and aquatic mammals like muskrat and beaver) carry a tiny parasite in their blood stream. The parasites produce eggs that are passed in the feces of the host bird or mammal. So if the animal feces land in the water, the water becomes contaminated.
Swimmers' itch (also called cercarial dermatitis) is a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to contact with the parasites. Symptoms include tingling, burning, or itching of the skin within minutes or days after exposure. Small reddish pimples appear within 12 hours, which may develop into small blisters. Itching may last up to a week or more, but will gradually go away.
They post the sign is for 2 reasons. 1. is to let you know that swimmers itch is common there (it isn't a problem in every body of water) and 2. if you feed the ducks, more ducks will come. More ducks, more duck poop. More duck poop more parasites. The problem will get worse. Simple right??!!
Have you ever seen a sign telling you not to drink the water because of "beaver fever"? That's a fun one too!
Vicki
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Thanks Vicki, I will pass this on to my husband. Never heard the Beaver one, wish I had a photo of it. After that encounter, we like to spend part of our traveling time taking photos of strange signs. Thanks agaiin, Peggy ;D
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Marit-
I didn't know you were in Charlotte! I absolutely LOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOVE it there!!!!!!!! I used to live in Chapel Hill. I really miss it there!
Nikker-
Thanks! We found her a home with a really nice family. They're going to be great for her. I named her Dixie. I don't know if they'll keep it, though. Maybe...they're kinda red-necky!
Newflvr-
You are SOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOO lucky to be able to take your doggies to the mall! How cool!
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I hate leaving Leo so much that I find myself putting off going to places he's not allowed to be. I wish they sold food at Petco! I even thought once about getting him a service dog blanket to wear so I wouldn't have to leave him home and I could take him everywhere! That would be dishonest I know, but I wish there was a way.
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There is an annual festival in Atlanta called the Dogwood Festival that marks the coming of spring and the blossoming of the Dogwood trees. It also became a festival that catered to dogs and dog lovers around the area. A few years back, because of some new laws, they posted signs that no dogs were allowed at the Dogwood Festival. The exception was the dogs that were competing in the frisbee catching competition. Go figure. They have events that center around canines, but don't allow them at the festival otherwise. I boycotted the festival for a few years, but decided to attend this year without my dog. I have to say, the festival was not even half the event without the dogs and I will never attend again.
Jason
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I hate leaving Leo so much that I find myself putting off going to places he's not allowed to be. I wish they sold food at Petco! I even thought once about getting him a service dog blanket to wear so I wouldn't have to leave him home and I could take him everywhere! That would be dishonest I know, but I wish there was a way.
lol, *ducks*, i had the same though natty LOL...no kidding.
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They don't sell food of any kind at your Petco or just not your brand? I know where I am almost any dog related store allows them in which is awesome!
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Bring your guys and come with us!! We have fun!!! Cowboy and I went in to Saks a couple of months ago and we managed to get the entire cosmetics department on the floor giving him loves! It was SOOO much fun!!!
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I recently took Niki on a leash into a large Mal after reading these posts. I read all of the entrance doors and there was no sign that dogs were not allowed. So I went in and wandered around the center where all the benches are and people stroll around. I figured all that could happen was that I get kicked out. Pretty soon several kids came up and I love to show off so Niki started picking up paper and putting it in the big trash cans by jumping up on them. I let her loose but the leash was dragging. The kids went crazy and the mom was ready to make me a deal on dog training. Niki was going through her routine of tricks from hand signals only and this great big security guard came up. His belly just hung over his tight belted pants and he said "well is that one of "those" dogs". I said "yes" and he said "well I didn't see a cape on her". Well she has a cape that says "customer service" and drapes all around her back, so I said "whoops, I forgot it". He said ok and I figured I better hightail it out before I get kicked out. So my point is, is it against the law for me to walk in with a cape on her? I didn't see any law about capes, did you? People say cheating, I say CHEATING WHAT?
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My husband & I took our rottie to home depot once because he had recently seen other people in there with their dogs. We strolled around
looking for some hardware. It was such a pleasure until a manager approached us and told us to get our rottweiler out of the store.
We explained that we saw other dogs in the store many times and he was very biligerant about us leaving so we did.
I didn't see a sign that said dogs allowed except for rottweilers anywhere. I would just love to live somewhere that I could
go just about everywhere with my dogs. For now we are content going to our favorite pet store together.
It smells better in there than any store! ;D
We're having a doggie birthday party here Sunday for my good friends newf who is turning one year old.
I can't wait. We let all of them swim too. We'll get some pictures to post...my friend is also on this website
with her two newfs. My rottie doesn't swim, she be watching over them from a safe distance so as not to get wet.
It should be a day of doggie heaven.
:)
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Hey Peggy, may be you can get some black sunglasses and a harness? That would be a little insensitive to blind people, but I guess it could be another way you could get into places with your dog. Not very practical. We actually were working on getting Drake into pet therapy and for several reasons. Number one, Newfs are great for people to hug and cry on. When I have a hard day, I come home and hug Drake and I feel much better. Plus, with the Pet therapy "cape" we could take him everywhere. But we didn't want to "use" the system and it was too much of a time commitment to get him through the program. So, if we don't see a No dogs allowed sign, we assume we can bring Drake. If people have a problem with it, we leave. No big deal. I was at the Half Yearly Sale at Nordstroms last week and saw people walking around the store with dogs. Didn't know that allowed that there.
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Does anyone else have to deal with this stupid issue? What is the logic behind it?
I will respectfully give you my opinion as to why the "stupid issue" is "personal responsibility".
Respecting the laws of your community is your personal responsibility to the public.
Just because I am in the public, I do not want children running up to me or my dog.
I do not stare at others in public that may be different and have handicaps, either.
I was taught to respect a person's privacy in public spaces.
Just like my civic freedom is to be free from secondhand smoke in public places, it is my freedom to be free from strangers approaching me and my dog.
Children should be taught never to approach a strange dog in public.
When I am sitting in the outdoor cafe with my dog and family, I don't want everyone to interrupt my meal with, "Oh, what a big dog!" I don't go by their table and say,"My, what a big child!"
My dog is trained to lie beside me next to the table while I eat. Why would I want your child to disturb us?
Not all dog enthusiasts or owners want to be on public display, but would like to maintain the right to private space in the public.
-I do not invite other dogs to go nose- to- nose to my dog, either.
-I don't go to dog parks either.
But I, like you, am a large dog owner. My dog is part of *my* life, not necessarily part of any dog or person that I meet on the street. I work my dog and train my dog and take great joy and pleasure in including him in the state parks, restaurants, beaches and rivers where I live.
He is usually the best behaved dog in the campgrounds and in public places. He lies quietly while other peoples dogs are barking at everyone walking by....
How long will the restaurants allow dogs outside that are jumping on every patron who walks by, getting tangled up on the chairs and tables?
NO DOGS ALLOWED is becoming more frequent in all communities because of people who don't get it. Like smokers who insist that their SMOKE outside is not harming anyone.....
now we have laws, since education didn't work.
Interesting in England, where there is an accepted etiquette for dogs in public, they are allowed in many places. But in America, we are making laws banning dogs an an uprecedented rate.
For instance, the point of having your dog on a leash is to have it in control, not to let it still run up to another dog even though it is "on leash." I can't tell you how may times this happens in public places. Not everyone in America picks up their dog poop in rest areas, parks and sidewalks. It is common etiquette in England.
In our fine democracy, for which young men and women are dying for, your freedom ends where mine begins. In other words, just because you see the world in one view doesn't mean that is how everyone sees it.
There would be fewer laws if more people took personal responsibility to respect the rights of others on the roads and in public places.
Simple Civics 101.
The relationship you build with your dog is what is important. Some of us think that relationship is more important than creating a circus in the public arena.
Looking for someplace to take your dog? Try PetSmart...tak e your dog where it is wanted.
Please do not force your yourself in public places where there is a clear policy, as it gives dog owners a poor image.
Every dog owner portrays an image in public. If we want to prevent more bans of dogs in public, a good idea is to act as an ambassador of good will and respect the rights of others.
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Whitesheparddo g: If you don't like people approaching you in public, don't leave your house! Part of having a purebred dog is to share it with others. It's great that you have a well behaved dog that you can take out in public and it won't embarrass you or cause a scene, but don't get mad at people who are animal lovers and want to appreciate your dog up close. If I took my Newf out in Public and scowled and got pissed at every person who was curious about the big, beautiful, cuddly dog I have with me, I would look like the biggest a-hole! It is part of having a big dog, people are going to want to approach you. Most people are used to small or mid-sized dogs and when they see a 150 lb. Newfoundland or a 200 lb. Mastiff walking down the street or playing in the park, there is a chance they are going to be curious as to what this large animal is. Maybe I'm wrong but sounds like you want to show off your dog, like it is a possession or decoration, but no one can touch it. That's why you don't go to dog parks, because that means you have to share your dog. You sound like many of the breeders that are at dog shows, who want everyone to ooh and aah and coo over their beautiful dog, but don't touch! And don't ask questions or take pictures until the dog is perfectly posed. To each his own, but I think you really don't get it. Owning a dog is like entering a brotherhood or sisterhood and many people want to share the love. Good luck, you've got a long hard road ahead of you!
And have you actually been to Europe? England wasn't too bad but in France, I think I missed most of Paris because I was too busy dodging piles of dog crap that were on the sidewalk. NO JOKE!!!
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I love when people ooohh & aaahhh over Samson!...It makes me SO proud!...I have had very very few incidents of people running up to him or children running up to him though...The places where I take him people are usuallly very respectful of Samson's space...maybe because you can obviously tell he is a big scardy cat though...I do whole heartedly agree that people should teach their children not to go up to any strange dog...I have had a very occasional child want to hug Samson but when I see them coming I just say STOP loudly & the few have complied immedatly...I then use the situation as an educational oppertunity to teach children & sometimes parents on how to approach a dog & what Samson's body language is saying to them...& it all helps me to socialize my big doofy scardy cat!
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Very well put Newf Lover and Gypsy. I love to have people touch and take pictures with Bear. They are always sooo curious and intrigued by this giant hairy black dog so I feel it is my part to tell them and teach them about my dog. If you go out, expect to have people fall in love with your giant dog. Enjoy it- you have something many people don't. Let it remind you of how special you and your dog are to have each other and how much you can educate the general population with your dog.
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Yeah, Gypsy, you're right, kids shouldn't run up to dogs. Most parents are mindful of that, which makes sense in these dog mauling days we live in. I do the same if any kids run up, I get between Drake and them. Most kids ask if they can pet him and I always say yes. Socialization is so key for dogs, the more they are around people the better. And I've had all sorts of encounters, from drunk a-holes at beerfestivals who think it's funny to kick dogs, to autistic kids who freak out because Drake is walking near them, to groups of drunk twentysomethin g girls who flock around Drake and begin kissing him on the face without thinking twice. I know he is able to handle just about any situation and still be a well behaved Gentledog. I just think it's rediculous to get annoyed because people approach you and want to pet or talk about your dog. As long as they're respectful, I appreciate their interest and friendliness and love sharing the breed with them. And Amen Jaime, you are spot on with your comments.
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We have a neighbor kids with Asperger's Syndrom which is a mild form of Autism...Sammy has done wonders for him!...He was TERRIFIED of Sam at 1st but now is able to come into out yard & play with alot less anxiety where Sam is concerned...He will even tell him "BACK SAM" in a no nonsence voice when Sams gets romping too close...I will let the boy hold a ball or his light saber which Sam is leary of to keep the big doofy dog at bay when Justin gets too anxious at Sammy's puppyness...It's great to see the progress that both Samson & Justin are making with each other! ;D
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Hey Gypsy, how come there's no Paw Print for Sammy? He looks like such a lovebug in your Avatar, so happy and just wants to lick and play!
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I just haven't gotten around to Sam's Paw Print yet...I always mean to & then I get messing around here posting & before long there is some "emergency" or such from either kid or critter that needs attending to...I'll get one done when hubby is home this week! :)
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Hey Newf: HaHa, if they just have a cape on, who bothers to read what it says, they just accept it, right? We don't have any pet therapy here, where is it in Marin. I would like to do it. Let me know, I am on my way.
" Respecting the laws of your community is your personal responsibility to the public." quote Per white shepard dog.
Sorry, I have a real problem with laws that I don't have a chance to vote on that are crammed down my throat.
I went to France and I do not remember "dodging any poopies anywhere". I did notice, however, in Paris that dogs were everywhere, in stores, streets and more.
Did you know that almost 75% of the people in American that die from a heart attack get out of bed on the left-hand side and, therefore, we need a law stating that it is illegal to get out of your bed on the left-hand side. The government needs to protect us from our stupidy you know. :P
Whatever happened to common sense?
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We have lawyers now, common sense is not necessary. Stupidity and ignorance are good excuses to get all the money you'll ever need through litigation. Find the nearest curb and trip over it, if there's no sign saying you need to look out for the curb, sue the city and state and get everything you can dammit! It's the American way, didn't you know?
As for pet therapy training in Marin, I'm not sure where it is. Sarah was bringing Drake to UCSF and the Cancer Center on Divisadero. It was great and people we so excited to see him, but a cranky Nurse Practitioner put an end to that. "He's not Pet therapy trained and is a liability, you can't bring him in here!!!" So Sarah peeled some crying Cancer kids off Drake and never brought him back (J/k it wasn't THAT dramatic). But the time commitment to get him trained was just not going to work with our schedules. Sarah was training for a triathlon and I was way too busy as well. Maybe later we can do it.
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I agree, I love when people come up to my dogs, I feel like a proud mama, and like newf Lover said, having a dog that is pure, also means to do some PR work for that breed, after all you have that specific breed because you love it, right.....
We always count on it taking longer to do whatever we do, when we bring the dogs, because of people coming up and asking questions, and it is a pleasure to educate a bit about the breed you love, or dogs in general.
I want to make Galahad a Therapy dog, just because I want to share him, his wonderful, goofy personality with people who could benefit from getting to know him.
And to compare it with "big" kids, not so logical I think. If there is a child who is 20 lbs overweight you just dont comment, it would be hurtful and just plain rude, but if there is a pretty girl and you say, ohhhh what a pretty daughter you have, I can bet you that no parent would take offence.
The poop issue, I can promise it is not only in the US, I am from europe, Sweden. Have lived 2 years in London, travelled through england, scotland, wales, italy,france, spain, greece, krete, germany, holland, norway, denmark, finland, I have been to africa and trust me, the same problems are everywhere, and some places way way worse than here. Always the same people complain about the poop that is not picked up and all dog owners even the ones who are responsible have to suffer the consiquenses. The US is by no means any worse.
Then to the events they hold on public roads, they block off the PUBLIC ROADS to have a"festival" or what not and tell us we cant bring our dogs, why? did the road all of a subben become LESS PUBLIC?
Marit
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AMEN MARIT!!! Did you notice the one protagonist on this topic has issued no rebuttle. It seems like they just wanted to invoke their opinion on us and then retreat. It's too easy to be passive in these chat rooms. I love constructive discussions and hearing varieties of opinions. If people have an opinion, they should state it and then counter any arguments. It's easy to get ganged up on in here, but dammit stand up for yourself! Prove us wrong, show us a side of the story we haven't considered!! Bring us into the light!!! :o
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Therapy Dogs International has a reasonable test and the Newfs all seem to pass it on their first go! Cowboy had NO problems qualifing and so he has a collar tag that reads "THERAPY DOG" in big letters! If questions me about why he is with me, I just point to his tag (VERY offical looking) and say that he has been certified to be "safe" enough for schools and hospitals. It is usually enough. The things that the dogs have to do (or not do) is on the Newf Club of America website, I think.
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Yes, bring us to the light. Still no reply. Oh well, maybe she got too close to a smoker and blew away. ;)
Thanks Newflvr, I am definitely going to search for more information on this therapy dog thing. 8)
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Therapy Dogs International has a reasonable test and the Newfs all seem to pass it on their first go! Cowboy had NO problems qualifing and so he has a collar tag that reads "THERAPY DOG" in big letters! If questions me about why he is with me, I just point to his tag (VERY offical looking) and say that he has been certified to be "safe" enough for schools and hospitals. It is usually enough. The things that the dogs have to do (or not do) is on the Newf Club of America website, I think.
TDI is the group I have been thinking of joining. Galahad is still so young, so we have a lot of basic training, good canine cit. and lots more, but I cant wait to do the test with him and hopefully get him certefied. He has the most wonderful personality and does not care if people are all over him, loud or any wheelchairs or weed eaters lol.... we have from when we got him introduced him to lots and lots of things. Sometimes he does a "stand" and looks hard, if there is a new thing where it was nothing the day before. But he never hesitates to go check it out. I love him so much, and I hope he can be one of the dogs who get to make days a little less monoton for a lot of people.
Please tell me more about Cowboy, are you out with him a lot, when he wears the vest or collar do you get to bring him places where you usually wouldnt be able to. I saw a dog with a therapy vest on at the baseball game last week.
Marit
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AMEN MARIT!!! Did you notice the one protagonist on this topic has issued no rebuttle. It seems like they just wanted to invoke their opinion on us and then retreat. It's too easy to be passive in these chat rooms. I love constructive discussions and hearing varieties of opinions. If people have an opinion, they should state it and then counter any arguments. It's easy to get ganged up on in here, but dammit stand up for yourself! Prove us wrong, show us a side of the story we haven't considered!! Bring us into the light!!! :o
I agree newf. It is very easy to throw out a opinion here and then back off. God knows I dont always agree with people, but if there is something I believe in, I would hope I could at least stand up for my opinion and discuss it. And sometimes when I have been dead set on something, and I get into a discussion with someone, and they can argue for their sake, I can see their point and sometimes even points that I had not even been thinking about, and believe it or not lol...... I have been known to change certain things I had a very strong opinion about, if I realize that there were things I was ignorant to and didnt take into concideration.
I can give one example, not anything to do with dogs, well in a way. Here many people walk with shoes indoors. In most countries they dont, they take the shoes off. Anway, I have a friend who is super overly protective about germs and her baby. She lysol, and clorex and gosh knows how many times a day she wipes the babys toys. Okay I have had dogs and cats long before I had children, they have been super healthy, actually less sick than most kids and now you may think I sound sick, but I think it is because they get exposed to a certain amount of germs and build their system up. I spoke to this friend and she was like yuck oouhhhsaka ouch..... nasty, gross. And started to tell me all she does to protect her baby from germs. I said, well you walk in with shoes on every day, after having stepped in God knows what, both you and your husband walk around the house with them on, and the baby is on the floor where these shoes have been stepping, maybe with dog pee, poo or cat pee, other germs and nastyness, and for sure there is soil on them, soil is a nasty source to germs. She actually had never even thought about that, so after awhile she figured if the baby had made it for so long without getting sick from all that, it was probably okay to relax a bit with the rest too.
Like I said not real dog related, but shows how sometimes information can make you change the opinion you so dearly stuck to before.
Marit
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Yes, and I searched under Therapy Dogs International, nothing. Tried the Newf site too, no help. I am a terrible surfer so I need more hints. Thanks. Niki's training is so extensive that I am sure she could work with the program.
Thanks
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pndlake, here is the link to TDI
http://www.tdi-dog.org/
Marit
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To be fair now, it takes all different folks to make the world go around.
But in all honesty, (my humble opinion here) any dog purebred or not, needs proper socialization if you are planning on going in public. If you want a dog who is not particularily friendly to strangers, then it's best to avoid situations where strangers will be prominant in the environment.
You can't complain about a situation that could have been avoided. We need to take responsibility for our actions.
Our Newfies LOVE socialization. Our rescued guy has to be watched closely. He's very immature for his age. Long story.
Anyway...our dogs both of them, love birds. And I don't mean love in the cuddly sense! LOL. So when we are downtown we walk them one at a time because I swear, you won't see a dang pigeon for weeks or months until we show up with both newfs. Then I swear the pigeon convention begins. ONE time we had both newfs together. I swear every pigeon in this town dropped out of the sky from nowhere in front of us. THen they proceeded to squak, jump, play leap frog, puff out chests, and run. We both had grass stains, skinned knees, frazzled nerves, people pointing, cars honking, bird lovers screaming on and on. I didn't know Newfs herded until the first pigeon convention we interupted. ;D
Anyway, Did we demand the pigeons disperse and stop rioting? Did we gather petitions for the removal of pigeons?
No, we blamed ourselves for not being prepared and knowing that we have limitations, taking one well trained Newf with herding instincts along with a somewhat unruly Newf who has a high instinct drive to a bird convention. That was our fault! Dogs will feed off each others emotions.
So, from now on...Big guy will go to busy places with us. Even with birds if he is alone, the command "Leave it" doesn't fall on deaf ears. For together walks, we stay OUT of downtown!!!
I guess what I am saying is we all have limitations with our doggies. But making others abide to our limitations is not right. They are our limitations not theirs.
So many laws are made because doggy parents do not take responsibility . So others are made to suffer because of it. I've never understood why a person will insist on taking a human shy dog into a public place with lots of humans and then gripe over what happens.
We just need to be responsible. Even when we make mistakes.
Luvmenewfs.
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Regardless of what floors you have, it's always a good idea to take your shoes off. If you have carpet, it will get stained if you don't take off your shoes. We got sick of cleaning the carpet so we got hardwood floors. We are more militant about taking shoes off now than before. I have heard horror stories of high heels and gravel in shoe tread that destroyed expensive hardwood floors. The Japanese and Hawaiians and other cultures are smart with the tradition of taking off shoes. God knows what you have stepped in when you're walking out in the world. We follow suit and actually have slippers for people to wear if they don't want to walk around in socks. When we have parties, we can't expect everyone to take off their shoes, or at least remember too after a few drinks, so we just politely tell people to just check their shoes when coming inside and hope for the best. Have any of you ever been to a party where you have to throw your shoes in a gigantic pile with everyone else? It's kinda silly. It's embarrassing but when you invest a serious chunk of change in your flooring, you can't help but be a bit anxious. Drake does enough damage with his monster nails.
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I told a freind of my MOM's that was bragging that you could eat off of her floors, they were so clean that hey: you could probably eat off of my floors too. If not for the four legged Hoovers, you could find a whole meal down there! ;) :D ;D ::) ::)
Stella
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Newf Lover, I require that people remove their shoes when coming into any part of my house that's not the kitchen our family room...The old woman who we bought the house from installed cream carpet as far as the eye can see...Everythi ng shows on it!...Right now my stairs look like they are wearing a cat fur coat. :-\ The great news is that under these carpets there are red oak floors!...I can't wait unti the carpet is completely trashed so we can go back to the hardwood floors!...maybe I should start letting people wear their shoes in the house to hasten the process...lol!
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Yeah, we were the same boat when we moved into our house, white carpets!!! We have a big garden so we were tracking in dirt every time we came in, plus Drake was adding his own touches. So we bit the bullet, ripped up the carpet except in the bedrooms and installed 4 in. Brazilian Cherry floors. Much better now! Even got the matching wood furnace grates, looks really good. I have a friend who installs wood floors for a living so we helped pull up the old flooring and bought him beers and saved probably 3 grand! Like everything else in life, it's all about "who" you know!
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Please tell me more about Cowboy, are you out with him a lot, when he wears the vest or collar do you get to bring him places where you usually wouldnt be able to. I saw a dog with a therapy vest on at the baseball game last week.
Cowboy hasn't been able to go in to schools, hospitals, etc. yet because of the problems with his meds. I never know if he's going to have a good day or a bad one. A bad one means that he can barely walk....drags his front paws (and I'm not watching, his front claws will actually bleed). A good day and his tail is up and wagging and he can't wait to go out and meet his public! On those days, we go to the mall or Home Depot, etc. and hit the stores just for him to get his loves. We spend a lot of time on our own mission....old er people, kids in wheel chairs, tiny people. He loves it....and so do I! I absolutely, whole-heartedly agree with all those who have said that these dogs are meant to be enjoyed by all!!! We've met SO many fascinating people and the stories we've heard!!!
One of the cautions that I heard from the woman who tested him was to remind those people who decide on therapy dogs for their institutions that they have been certified and are cleared...and not to allow someone else to "re-test" them. She said there have been horror stories about dogs been thrown, kicked, etc. to see if they would react negatively!!! She told all of us to stand up for our dogs and not allow them to be abused! I have had to instruct parents about the appropriate way to have their kids approach a dog who doesn't know them....and a times not very nicely! There was a child who tried to poke Cowboy's eyes!!! That mother got an earful!! If it had been any other dog, the kid wouldn't have had an arm and she would have sued ME!!! GROWLLLL!!!
He does wear his collar tag at all times so we can go on our mission at the drop of a hat!!!
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Hi Luvmenewfs, you are right it takes a lot of different people in the world and if we all felt the same, then it would be a very boring place to live in.
I just do not believe that we need a law to cover every possible situation. There can be so many laws that we will need a book to review on a daily basis just to keep from breaking any. My dog is perfect in public, loves people and stays by my side at all times, unless directed to do differently. I have never had a complaint. I started Niki on a short leash and halter when she was a pup. I have never made a "circus" of her as stated by whiteshepard. Sure some morons were not given any common sense direction by their parents and make it hard on all of us but that happens everywhere (per Marit) and the advantage of having more freedom with our animals far outways a few problems. Here is an example and a true story:
I was working as a customer service rep for a major airline. During my training, they told us the story of a 200 lb pig that had a certificate that it was a therapy animal and must accompany its owner on a flight from Chicago to Seattle. The owner approached the customer service rep with the paperwork and demanded that the pig accompany them in the cabin. The customer service rep was not sure, so checked with his supervisor. The supervisor was not sure so checked with the station manager. The station manager was not sure so checked with the crew of the aircraft. The crew checked with the captain who OK's the animal on board. The pig (200 lbs. remember) was loaded into the first class compartment and given a seat in front of the bulkhead. Everything was fine until the plane landed in Seattle. After landing, the pig squeeled wildly and started running through the coach section pooping in the aisle. After the jetway was put onto the aircraft, the pig squeeled more and ran up the jetway depositing huge amounts of feces that all the passengers had to step around. The airline was sued by at least five of the passengers and guess what, the customer service rep. was fired but the captain was not.
We can have rules until we are blue in the face, but you never know. :-\
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The visual is 22222222222 funny!...The story is not!...I am thinking the pig should have had an extended potty break before the plane left ground!...That poor porker!
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Tina, the kids dont risk to be too overly protected from germs in my house either hehe. But funny part is, they are less sick than most of their friends.
Newflvr.... I think it is sooooo sad to hear about Cowboys problems, its gotta physically hurt you too when he isnt feeling well. I am sure he loves the days when he gets to show off his ole handsome self, and be loved on. Thanks for the heads up on the testing methods. I would go stir crazy if anyone started to test Galahad like that, id probably jump them and they would have to shoot me with one of them tranqulizer guns ???
I am soooo looking forward to coming as far as you have with Cowboy.
Give your big hunk kisses from me
Marit
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:D :D :D
Well, maybe I have a real sick sense of humor, but the piggy visual made me lose it!! It's too bad anyone was sued or lost their job over this. I mean things happen. Personally, as a passenger, I would've enjoyed the free entertainment!!
But you're right. A person cannot possibly forsee every situation. I've seen very well trained titled dogs suddenly act up and commands fall on deaf ears. It happens. Laws won't stop that at all.
It really bothers me that laws are proposed or made meerly because someone or group has decided they don't like dogs. Any dog. I worked for a woman (it was brief) one year who hates dogs. Her daughter was scared about ticks and asked her about them. I stood there while she was telling her daughter (9 years old) that as long as she stayed away from dogs she wouldn't pick up ticks. Only dogs have ticks. I was appalled. Didn't know what do to really. I did mention something like, "Yes, supposed the bushes, shrubs, and trees in nature wouldn't have anything to do with ticks would they."
The final staw was when hubby pulled up with our Newfie, in the suburban. Bryce was sitting in the front seat looking magnificient and really BIG. LOL. WHen he drove off (Bryce was in the burb while I spoke with hubby) the same gal turned to another worker and said, "Oh did you see that dog. He was real big and was the smelliest dog I've met."
Okay, I hit the roof.
But out of all the folks I met, she groaned the loudest about dog laws and they need to be strict. She is a firm believer that NO dog even on leash should be in public places. They are dirty.
I never understood it.
I'll never understand it. So on one hand I feel it's very important to get our dogs out and let people meet and learn that the dogs are nice and well behaved. There is a difference between responisible and irresponsible. On the other hand, it is individuals like this that will sue to high heaven. Businesses need to protect themselves from lawsuits. How do you educate those who refuse to look at dogs and who teach their children dogs are plagues?
It's a sad thing really.
Luvmenewfs