Celebrating the canine-human bond!
This newsletter is brought to you by
Arlington Dog Owners Group (A-DOG)
, a 501(c)(3) community organization promoting the rights and interests of responsible dog owners in Arlington, MA.
If you're not already a member, we hope you'll want to
join A-DOG
!
Wags and Tags editorial team: Joan Black (managing editor), Sue Doctrow, and Ellen Leigh. Contact our
managing editor
if you'd like to submit an article. (Guidelines: ~500 words or fewer, with 1 or 2 photos of 1 mb or smaller.)
Articles in Wags and Tags represent the opinions of the author(s) not necessarily those of A-DOG or the editorial team. A-DOG logos designed by Lisa Berasi for Arlington Dog Owners Group, all rights reserved
|
|
- Paws for Calendar
- Membership: The MAX Fund
- Celebration of Arlington ACO Diane Welch
- Arlington's Pet Food Pantry: What's for Dinner?
- Ask a Trainer: What's Up Pup?
- Pawsome People and Awesome Dogs
|
|
We have no scheduled events right now because we are all living in a different world. Many of us, except for medical professionals and others with essential jobs, are spending our time at or near home with our human, canine, and feline families to keep one another safe from the novel coronavirus. However, A-DOG is planning some exciting video events to be held soon. Our first will most likely be an "Ask the Vet" presentation/workshop with Dr. Becky Schoenberg of
Autumn Care and Crossings
. Details will be sent to everybody on the Wags and Tags mailing list so stay tuned! We also post our events on
A-DOG's Facebook page
.
|
|
A-DOG Membership: The MAX Fund
|
|
Intro by Joan Black
As April’s Membership Drive 2020 draws to a close, there is some very exciting news to share. First there is still time to renew or join for the first time. We are Membership Dues funded and Volunteer powered. New or Renew, we want you to join the A-DOG pack.
In addition this year there are some Membership Scholarships available. Janice and husband Bob are long time A-DOG members and supporters. When they lost Max earlier this year, they generously established “The MAX Fund” to award four A-DOG Membership Scholarships as a tribute. One full membership has already been awarded, honoring a family for providing support for those needing help caring for pets. There are three remaining. Anyone may apply either for financial need or to nominate someone to honor. If you have always wanted to join A-DOG or upgrade from Associate member, this is your chance to become a full A-DOG member, thanks to Max and his family. To apply for consideration, send brief explanation request to me at
<joan.c.black@gmail.com
>.
Who was Max? He was more than a very good boy, you will discover.
|
|
An Arlington Dog: Max, More Than A Very Good Boy
by Janice Yellin
How does one sum up a life shared for 12 years with a kind, loving, sentient being?
Max was not only a very good boy, he was really nice guy. He was a Golden Doodle but more poodle than retriever. Max understood a tremendous amount of language. We soon found ourselves just talking to him if we wanted him to know or do something (ok maybe not regarding quantum physics). This, in turn, often led us to forget he was, ostensibly, a dog. In truth he was one of the better-behaved members of the household. He was a famously picky eater (the poodle part, again, as a retriever turns down nothing). When he wanted something such as to go out, a treat, permission to join us on the sofa — yes, he asked permission before doing that — he just stared at me, knowing I would understand what he was asking. He had less confidence in Bob’s ability to know, and rightly so as Bob would admit. Max would make a point of coming to me and looking me in the eye. He was right. I had nearly a 100% batting average for understanding what he was telling me. A rather self-contained being, he nonetheless had his favorite people and dogs. If you were a small dog in particular or a favorite person, he was surprisingly effusive for such a dignified fellow. Although a serious thinker, Max did know how to have a good time. These included anything involving a ball, a walk, ice cream, or going anywhere that included ALL of his people. At the end of his life Max had a brain tumor that was mercifully quick so he suffered very little. Months later we still look for his quiet, steady presence in his usual places surprised to find them empty. In honor of Max, Bob & I have established The MAX Fund.
|
|
If you're an A-DOG Associate member or full member whose dues expired, please consider joining/renewing as a full member. If you're not an A-DOG member, but you like what we bring, please join our pack. Help us continue our mission of providing free educational & recreational programs as a community service.
Being a Facebook Group member or receiving WAGS & TAGS does not necessarily mean you are an A-DOG member.
We have dues free (Associate member) and dues paying (Full member) options. A-DOG is a 501(3)(c) nonprofit, all volunteer organization. Our programs, workshops and advocacy efforts are funded by our membership dues and powered by volunteers. Please join and consider volunteering for one or more events.
More information here.
|
|
Celebration of Arlington ACO Diane Welch's Recognition as MA ACO of the Year and More
|
|
Diane Welch, Animal Control Officer of the Year 2019.
|
|
by Sue Doctrow
We were so excited that Arlington's ACO, Diane Welch, was awarded
Arlington Animal Control Officer of the Year
at her ACO graduation ceremony (graduation from the Animal Control Officers Association of Massachusetts (ACOAM) Certification Academy) last October. This annual award is presented by the Animal Rescue League of Boston and the MSPCA, based on community nominations. It was a great accomplishment for "rookie" Diane (as she herself puts it), who shared the award with Nancy Bersani of Milton, an ACO for many years. “For a newer ACO, Diane has accomplished an incredible amount and received numerous recommendations from Arlington residents and officials who praise her community-building and educational efforts, [and] her commitment to animals and people, as well as her proactive and caring nature,” Kara Holmquist, MSPCA’s director of advocacy, said of Welch in e-mailed comments to the Boston Globe.
A few of us attended the ceremony to support Diane and were, of course, thrilled when Kara Holmquist, in announcing Diane's award, noted that any other ACOs in the room who wanted to win the award in the future should ask Arlington residents for nominations. ;-)
I was proud to be one of her many endorsers and wanted to share part of my nomination letter:
"...
In this letter, I could present only a few examples ...I am confident you will receive many other testimonials to show the breadth of her commitment to our town, not only to protecting its pets but also its wildlife. She clearly understands, too, that the best way to protect these animals is to educate and build relationships with people and organizations who can help her in this purpose. Again, I cannot emphasize strongly enough what a treasure Diane Welch is to Arlington! She epitomizes the combination of humanity, leadership, and community engagement that I believe the ideal ACO should possess. I hope that you will give her every consideration as Massachusetts Animal Control Officer of the Year."
We were all so proud, too, to be part of the Arlington dinner table at the awards ceremony to celebrate Diane! Attending to represent
A-CAT
were Wendy Fields and Karen Hartford. Representing A-DOG were Joan Black, Ellen Leigh, Ricky, and myself. We joined Diane's strong supporters from the APD, her Chief Juliann Flaherty and her Captain Jim Curran. And, of course, Diane's husband Steve Rossi.
Read more in
YourArlington.com
and the
Boston Globe
. Also, please take the time to watch Diane's touching, funny, sincere acceptance speech at the link below (video by Karen Hartford). If you don't already know Diane, the speech will no doubt show you why she has earned this award.
|
|
Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week (April 17, 2020).
A-DOG joins with The Arlington Police Department in wishing
"ACO Diane takes so much pride in her work, showing us just how much she cares about the town of Arlington's animals & residents. We are so glad you are part of our team! Thank you for all you do for the town of
#ArlingtonMA
and here at APD.
#StaySafe
#ACOAW2020
"
Featured with her dog Smitty and her owl Nuala in the photograph, ACO Diane proudly models the mask sent to her by Arlington resident Maeve Lien.
|
|
The Way We Were: Remembering April 2019
by Joan Black
Diane's communication & connection to the Arlington Community are clearly illustrated by her famous photo journals. The journals described rescues & saves throughout the town as well as highlights of assistance & cooperation from local residents. There always was opportunity for educational moments and expression of gratitude for community support. Her warmth & humor shone brightly wrapped in the kindness of a deep love and respect for animals both wild & domestic. Residents of Arlington miss those frequent in person meetings and sightings as Diane coordinates her work from home. Enjoy the charm of a simpler time with Diane's
photo journal
from last spring with "The Way We Were: Remembering April 2019."
|
|
Arlington's Pet Food Pantry: We're Here to Help
|
|
by LeeAnna Pallett
What is Arlington's Pet Pantry?
With the support of ACO Diane Welch I have been working to organize Arlington’s Pet Pantry since fall of 2019. The Pantry is organized, stored and operated from my home. The primary mission is to provide for those financially struggling to feed and care for their pets, support people on disability, or help volunteers fostering or rehabilitating animals. Arlington’s Pet Pantry has been advertised on social media, through Arlington Eats Food Pantry and by word of mouth. Please help get the word out that help is available with contact information. WAGS & TAGS will continue to update information in future issues.
What Does Arlington’s Pet Pantry Need?
During this exceptional time of quarantine & sheltering in place with many people out of work, there is a growing need for supplies. No one should have to choose between feeding themselves or caring for pets. Pets are family. I am very grateful for all the donations & supplies received to date. However, donations are needed, as on hand supplies are constantly changing. Besides food, we need, collars, leashes, toys, gear,
etc
, either new or gently used. Please let me know what you would like to donate by telephone or email first to make arrangements. There is a bin in the driveway by the door for drop offs, along with a form to fill out for what you take and leave. The Pantry can only take food, treats and equipment donations. No money or gift cards are accepted. Please have everything clean and in working order. Also note, we may be able to take “open” bags of food if it something that is being sought after. Check first as we are unable to store “open” bags. As the Pantry expands, there may be a need for volunteer help in the future.
Who is Arlington’s Pet Pantry?
I am the primary organizer of the Pantry as a lover of animals. I am a stay-at-home mom with two grown children and have lived in Arlington for 12 years. My daughter Belle has been my copilot many times when picking up donations. My husband Matthew also helps out. Our family has three dogs, Zooey, Franny and Zelda, and two were rescued from Louisiana. As labs who love to eat most anything, dinnertime is one of the highlights of their day, so they are 100% behind the idea of the Pantry. In a way, it is a family affair. We are also new members of A-DOG.
How Does One Access Arlington’s Pet Pantry?
Arlington’s Pet Pantry
was set up to help those facing challenges. Anyone can come for food and supplies whenever needed. In difficult times, people should not have to give up their pets.
Contact me with questions, to make donations or for arranging to pick up food & supplies.
The Pet Pantry is located at 127 Winchester Road, Arlington. Come to the driveway door on Stone Road.
Photo: Franny, Zooey & Zelda ask, “What’s for dinner?”
|
|
|
|
Ask a Trainer: What's Up Pup?
|
|
by Ruth Hegarty
What’s Cricket for Sticks?
Q:
(Sue Doctrow) My dog, Cricket, grabs giant sticks (like 3 foot huge branches) on walks and insists on dragging them along, sometimes smacking us in the legs with them. She tugs like crazy if we try to get them away. Sometimes she will drop it if we distract her with a treat. She also grabs her leash in her mouth and tugs it madly. Both things are cute, and obviously a big game for her, and don't bother us that much. She knows "drop it" though response is not perfect. We try to discourage behavior by distracting her with something "better" (call her name, give her a treat if she lets go and comes near us) which works sometimes. She loves playing "keep away" with toys and objects (her daddy taught her by chasing her to play in the backyard) so it is challenging. Is that a reasonable approach and/or do you have other suggestions?
A:
(Ruth Hegarty) Great questions, Sue!
One of the things I love teaching clients is you can have fewer cues (aka commands, requests, etc) that each work in multiple situations. A strong “drop it” cue can work for giant sticks, leash biting and keep away games. By “strong” I mean well-practiced so when you say “drop it” Cricket drops whatever is in her mouth 100% of the time (OK, say 95%). Since Cricket already knows “drop it,” you are half-way there. Practice using a high value treat (cheese or hot dog) so Cricket is motivated to “drop it” for the great reward. Practice on walks when she picks up sticks or leash and during her games with daddy in the backyard. He can make “drop it” part of the game so it’s still fun for her but the game can end when you need it to.
Some dogs love carrying things in their mouth so something to consider for Cricket is giving her something to carry on walks that isn’t going to bruise your legs. That could be a designated "walk" stick, stuffed toy, second leash or anything you bring along which makes you both happy.
Some things to remember for any dog training you are:
• Keep it fun and happy. Your dog will learn faster and remember what she learned. If you get frustrated, take a break. Training should feel like a game to you and your dog.
• Dogs are able to understand you expect different behavior in the yard than on walks. Cricket can learn that being chased for a toy is fine in yard with Dad but not OK on walks.
• A strong “drop it” is part of this as is keeping consistent with your own behavior.
• Make the treat worth your dog’s attention. A dog might sit at home for a piece of kibble but won’t come when called at the park for anything less than real chicken.
***********************
Ruth Hegarty is an A-DOG member and owner of
Creature Good Dog Training
in North Cambridge. Ruth has an M.S. in Education and is a certified dog trainer, certified dog bite safety educator and a Fear Free Shelters graduate. Ruth is a passionate adult dog adoption advocate and has helped many dogs (and people) adapt to bringing home a furry family member from the shelter. As a dog trainer and behavior consultant, Ruth works with individuals, families and groups to help people and their dogs understand each other better, communicate effectively and live happily ever after. Get free training tips and resources by
subscribing to Ruth’s weekly emails
.-
Ruth Hegarty, M.S.E., Certified Dog Trainer & Behavior Consultant, Certified Dog Bite Safety Educator, Adult Dog Adoption Advocate, Fear Free Shelters Graduate & Dog First Aid & CPR Certified. Sign up for email newsletter
here
.
“What’s Up Pup?”
If you have a question or concern for Ruth about training or behavior & would like it to have it considered for WAGS & TAGS, please ask Ruth and cc <
joan.c.black@gmail.com
>
Photos: Cricket carrying a relatively small (for her) stick while hiking in Arlington Great Meadows with her dad, John (upper). Cricket demonstrates using a big stick for "social distancing" with her Auntie Alma (lower) at the Arlington Reservoir. Photos by Sue Doctrow, who also notes: "We adopted our beautiful girl Cricket through
Great Dog Rescue New England
and
PAWS Project Foundation
; she was rescued by their partners
EARL's Hope Rescue
of GA. Please consider supporting amazing volunteer-run organizations like these to help them save more lives."
|
|
|
|
Pawsome People and Awesome Dogs
|
|
Laura, Buttons & Percy: Behind The Mask-Sewing Brigade
by Marjorie Howard
(originally published in YourArlington.com "
Beyond mask-sewing brigade: The fabric of Arlington
")
Introduction by Joan Black
Laura Wirkkala and her "brigade" of over 100 volunteers have completed over 2,000 masks to date. Enjoy reading about Laura's remarkable organization, which has woven together talents and gifts of community support to help during this crisis. In her own words, "Staying at home feels so helpless, but being able to make something gives you peace and feeds your soul. People feel like they're helping and making a contribution. I am in the process of installing a Ring Doorbell/intercom at sewing school to be more careful. This virus is so contagious! So, if you are coming to the sewing school, and need to speak to me, you can press the Ring doorbell, and we should be able to have a conversation and stay safer.”
Marjorie Howard’s article includes ways to donate, instructions to make masks, as well as a link to Laura’s demonstration video.
It does take a village and, in our case, often a pack. Laura is an A-DOG member and supporter. While Laura has been spending long days at her shop,
Laura's Sewing School
, her two dogs Buttons and Percy have spent their time with A-DOG board member David White and his dogs. From David: "Here's a picture of Buttons with all the sticks he's dragged in through the dog door and up to the third floor." Apparently while Laura & her brigade are sticking to the invaluable sewing tasks at hand, Buttons is sticking to his own mission.
Photo below: The Robbins Farm Dog being a very good boy! (by Tony Vogel)
|
|
|
|
Our
ONLINE SHOP
for buying A-DOG apparel (T-shirts, sweatshirts and hats) and coffee mugs is open for business.
Your A-DOG products will be printed and sent to you by
QRST's
of Somerville!
Wear your A-DOG colors! And, send us a photo of you wearing your new stuff for a future Wags and Tags fashion feature.
We hope to include future products to help our local partners with fundraising: apparel for the Arlington High School Dog Enthusiasts Club and A-CAT -- stay tuned!
p.s. Sue Doctrow reports that she bought this peach hoodie and it is even more pretty than the photo, and super-soft!
|
|
A-DOG Meetings in 2020
A-DOG normally holds five meetings per year, in January, March, May, July and October. Unless otherwise noted, meetings are on the fourth Tuesday of the month. Our March meeting was cancelled because of precautions against public in-person meetings. Some future meetings may be held online. Schedules and locations of 2020 meetings will be announced to the
Wags and Tags mailing list
.
A-DOG Membership
A-DOG's membership year runs from April 1 through March 31, so some full memberships are up for renewal each spring. If your membership expired, you should have received a reminder letter during our Membership Drive. As an A-DOG Full Member, you are entitled to discounts and benefits from our Friends of A-DOG businesses. And, your dues and donations to A-DOG are tax deductible, to the full extent allowed by law. If you are not an A-DOG member,
join here
anytime! (If you join after Sept 1 in a given year, expiration will be extended to the next membership period so you don't miss out.)
Shop for A-DOG
(If you are not a full member, please sign up and pay your dues at the link above for joining A-DOG. If you are unsure if your membership is still active, or need another membership card as proof, you can email us to check into it.)
Also, when you buy from Amazon, please start at the
Amazon Smile website
which should get you directly to our donation link. If not, be sure to choose "A-Dog The Arlington Dog Owners Group, Inc" as your preferred nonprofit group. Amazon will make a donation to A-DOG and your purchase will not cost any more!
A-DOG members, Business Friends of A-DOG and other subscribers receive Wags and Tags each month. If this issue was forwarded to you and you'd like to subscribe to Wags and Tags without joining A-DOG,
click here
or click the green sign-up button on the front page of our website.
|
|
Arlington Dog Owners Group | www.arlingtondogowners.org
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
