Warning: Creating default object from empty value in /home/customer/www/aboutmorkies.com/public_html/wp-content/plugins/divi-filterable-blog-module/includes/controller/instance.php on line 135
Dogs in the news | ABOUT MORKIES
Can a hawk pick up a dog?

Can a hawk pick up a dog?

Can a hawk pick up a dog?  It’s no urban myth; small dogs and cats are being grabbed by predatory birds.  Although it’s relatively rare, it does happen. Often the hawk or owl quickly drops the pet, realizing it’s far too heavy to carry. But sometimes, it doesn’t turn out well. So can a hawk pick up a dog? YES! It’s relatively rare but it does happen.

The sad truth is: large raptors, such as Red-tailed Hawks and Great Horned Owls, can attack and kill small pets. Typically these predator birds eat rodents, birds, rabbits, snakes, and insects, but we need to keep our small dogs like Morkies safe. You might be thinking that even if a hawk attacked your dog, they wouldn’t be strong enough to pick up your pup. In fact, hawks can pick up small dogs and carry them away, just like other prey.

You might be thinking that even if a hawk attacked your dog, they wouldn’t be strong enough to pick up your pup. In fact, hawks can pick up small dogs and carry them away, just like other prey.

Recent reports of hawk attacks on small dogs

Lori Timczyk with her daughter Jessica, 15, and Rocky, their 4-pound Yorkshire terrier who survived an attack from a hawk.  2015, near Pittsburgh .

 

 

Little dog attacked by hawk

Little Nappi was attacked by a hawk in her own yard according to owners.

dog attacked by hawk

In Southfield, Michigan, a large hawk picked up this family dog Benny. Fortunately, the bird dropped the little dog and his owner  found him and rushed him to a Vet. However, Benny suffered a half dozen puncture wounds, bruises and a fractured jaw

bonnie the dog after the hawk attack

Super disturbing incident in Ireland!

This instance, in the news January, 2017, is particularly horrible because the owner actually set his bird of prey on the tiny Pomeranian on purpose! The dog owner said his two children were left “hysterical” while watching their beloved pooch Bonnie being pinned to the ground for five minutes with the Harris hawk’s talons embedded in her head.

Finally after about 5 minutes, the bird owner called off the attack. When the dog owner tried to get his address, the bird-brain guy set his hawk on them again!! Unbelievable.

Little Bonnie, after being attacked by a bird of prey WHICH THE OWNER SET ON HER PURPOSELY!

predatory birds

Which birds are the most dangerous?

There are a number of birds of prey, or ‘raptors’ which could harm your Morkie or other small pet. But the two most dangerous are the Red-Tailed Hawk and the Great Horned Owl.

In general, red-tailed hawks are considered one of the most dangerous hawk species in the US.

The red-tailed hawk’s range and numbers make them one of the most frequently encountered raptors in North America. Weighing around 3 pounds, they’re also among the biggest hawk species, meaning they’re more likely to see your small dog as potential prey.

Other notable hawk species that may go after your dog as prey include red-shouldered hawks, Harris’s hawks, and northern goshawks.

coyote vest for dogs

Coyote vest for dogs can protect against predatory birds. There’s a wide variety of choices on Amazon.

Although chances of a hawk or owl attack are pretty miniscule, it never hurts to take precautions, especially if you live in the country.  Here are some tips –

Keep your pets leashed and supervise them while they’re outside.  Putting your Morkie outside? Stay with your pup. Owls and hawks aren’t the only dangers – coyotes are encroaching on developed areas more and more. And… what about the low life scumbags who target and steal small dogs so that they can resell them?

 

  • Don’t feed your Morkie outside. He won’t be as aware of what’s going on, and food could attract predators.
  • Never disturb nesting birds or their offspring. Raptor birds are protected by law.
  • Avoid feeding ground birds and low feeders like doves and quail. They attract predatory birds.

Keeping your Morkie safe from predators like birds and coyotes

can a hawk pick up a dog vert photoAlthough chances of a hawk or owl attack are pretty small, it never hurts to take precautions, especially if you live in the country.  Here are some tips –

Keep your pets leashed and supervise them while they’re outside.  Putting your Morkie outside? Stay with your pup. Owls and hawks aren’t the only dangers – coyotes are encroaching on developed areas more and more. And… what about the low life scumbags who target and steal small dogs so that they can resell them?

 

  • Don’t feed your Morkie outside. He won’t be as aware of what’s going on, and food could attract predators.
  • Never disturb nesting birds or their offspring. Raptor birds are protected by law.
  • Avoid feeding ground birds and low feeders like doves and quail. They attract predatory birds.

Remember this scene from The Proposal?

This is Sandra Bullock from the hilarious movie, The Proposal (2009). Bullock, a self-absorbed executive, is on her cell phone and doesn’t notice that a hawk has just swooped down to grab her American Eskimo dog. Luckily she grabs the dog back.

Scene from The Proposal with Sandra Bullock

Can dogs get Covid?

Can dogs get Covid?

Many people are panicking over their pets and coronavirus – “can my dog give me coronavirus?” “Are dogs carriers of coronavirus?” … and lots more. Here’s the good news – you’re safe!

The bad news is one dog DID test “mild positive” for coronavirus in Hong Kong. The good news – it’s a real exception and is probably related to the fact that this dog’s owner has coronavirus. Experts assure us the HUMAN probably passed some of the viral bacteria to the DOG’s mouth.

It’s highly, highly unlikely that your pets can carry the virus or have it. This strain — COVID-19 is spread between people.

According to the World Health Organisation, there’s no reason to panic about pets as possible victims or carriers of the coronavirus, since there’s no evidence that they can be infected.

Most viruses cannot be spread between humans and animals

The Centres of Disease Control and Prevention noted that there had been no reports of animals being infected in the US.

And the well respected World Organization for Animal Health confirms:

The current spread of COVID-19 is a result of human to human transmission. To date, there is no evidence that companion animals can spread the disease. Therefore, there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals which may compromise their welfare.

The most important factor for all of us, is to simply wash our hands with lots with soap and water.

Protect your Pets

Dogs and cats should also “socially isolate say” experts.

  • don’t let them interact with people outside your household
  • keep yourself and your dog at least 6′ from other people and dogs
  • avoid dog parks or public places where there are large numbers of people, even if they are maintaining the 6′ distance

Coronaviruses are a group of related viruses that cause diseases in mammals and birds.
Their name comes from the Latin corona, meaning crown or hearth because of the fringe of large, bulbous projections that make it look like a crown.

COVID-19 is the name of the disease caused by the SARS-CoV2 virus.
COVID-19 is an acronym that stands for coronavirus disease of 2019.
A “novel” coronavirus means that it is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified in humans.

 

Morkie in a white hat

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), no animals in the United States have been identified with the virus, except zoo tigers,  below, and there is no evidence that dogs or other pets can contract or spread COVID-19. 

Caring for your Morkie when YOU are sick

  • if you think you have COVID-19 or it’s been confirmed by a test, restrict contact with your pets and other animals
  • ask another member of your household to take care of your Morkie
  • no snuggling, kissing or petting until you are all clear
  • don’t share bedding or food
  • cover your face around your pets and wash your hands well after ANY contact with your pet

If you are sick with COVID-19 and you’re worried your Morkie is sick too, CALL YOUR VET RIGHT AWAY. Do not go to the clinic – call first.

What about the dog in Hong Kong that test positive for COVID-19?

The Hong Kong government reported that an apparently healthy dog belonging to an infected person tested “weakly positive” in March. The dog was 17 years old and did die later.

Two cats in New York become the first confirmed cases of pets to test positive in the US. They’re expected to recover.

dogs don't need masks

Should my pet wear a mask?

No. There’s no scientific evidence that face masks protect pets from infectious diseases or air pollutants, and masks have the potential to be unnecessarily scary or uncomfortable for pets.

Should I get my pet tested for COVID-19?

At this time, testing pets for COVID-19 virus is unwarranted, as there is currently no indication that apparently healthy and unexposed pets should be tested for the virus.

Dogs CAN get certain types of coronavirus.

Dog Coronavirus

Veterinarians say there are a number of coronavirus strains that affect dogs, and they’ve been around for years, but those that affect your pet aren’t the same as the one affecting people now.

Canine coronavirus is not the same as COVID-19, known as the coronavirus, being transmitted from person-to-person right now.

There is no evidence that dogs or other pets can contract or spread COVID-19.

Canine coronavirus is a respiratory disease, and it is highly contagious. But it is relatively mild and shows up as a single incidence of vomiting, or a day or two of diarrhea. Fever is rare. Often, there are no symptoms at all.

The treatment is usually to keep your sick dog isolated from other dogs, and keep his area clean, especially clean of poop since that’s one way it is spread. After a couple of days, your dog should be fine.

The main thing to watch for is dehydration resulting from diarrhea.

CANINE CORONAVIRUS (CCV)

  • relatively mild, sometimes has no symptoms at all
  • it is no longer recommended – in fact it is actively advised that you DOI NOT get this vaccination for your dog because of the side effects
  • it is more harmful to dogs than helpful
  • it will not affect people or help them in any way
  • Vets may recommend it form time to time as a high-profit vaccination
  • at this time there is no vaccine for COVID-19
smart little morkie

Here's everything we know about COVID-19 and companion animals

Cases remain rare. It appears transmission of the disease from human to animal is low, with a tiny number of cases reported since the outbreak’s early days. Importantly, there is no evidence pets can transmit to their owners. The World Health Organization says there’s “no evidence that a dog, cat or any pet can transmit COVID-19.”

One veterinary laboratory distributed 4,000 tests for cats and dogs; the results came back that ZERO were infected with COVID-19.

yorkie maltese emergency planningThere IS a COVID danger for pets like Yorkie Maltese dogs

The AVMA or American Veterinary Medical Association tells us that the primary concern is for humans and that any concern for animals and COVID-19 is around:

  • Shortage of drugs and medical supplies for animals – because it’s all being bought up in a panic, for people, and
  • A possible shortage of pet food in your own home, if the event quarantining comes to North America.

They remind us that as always, we need to include our animals in emergency preparedness planning, keeping a two week supply food and medications on hand for everyone in our home.

Looking for more information?

Want to take better care of your Morkie?

Check out this COMPLETE HANDBOOK for raising a happy, healthy Morkie. From puppy to senior. Includes potty training, feeding, common health concerns, obedience, vaccinations and much more.  Charts, photos, illustrations and easy-to-read text.
 

Read it on your smartphone, computer, laptop, iPad or reader.

ORDER this invaluable e-book today 

Or read more about the MORKIE MEGA GUIDE e-book.

 

Order today and take better care of your Morkie

From getting a Morkie, to common health concerns, what to feed your Yorkie-Maltese mix, which deadly vaccinations to avoid — and much more! 

Over 300 pages of vital information.

THE Comprehensive Guide to Morkies

How smart are dogs? Check this!

How smart are dogs? Check this!

The family Morkie ran away and it took their other dog, to find her!

One New Castle, PA family got a scare when their Morkie ran away from home. A friend was minding Coco, the Yorkie Maltese mix, when she took off.

Immediately, the whole family sprang into action, searching for the dog, posting flyers and circulating Coco’s picture on Facebook and other websites.

“Every time we’d see a white bag in a ditch, we’d think it was her,” they recalled. “It’s nothing but farmland out there and we couldn’t find any sign of her.”

Still, the family was encouraged by the number of people who helped search.

Yet, when Coco hadn’t been spotted by 4 p.m., they feared the worst for the small dog who never leaves the house unless she’s on a leash. That’s when they thought of including Molly in the search.

Enter Molly, a year old German Pointer, and the family’s other dog.

Although the dog wasn’t trained for any search and rescue operations or even hunting, Molly had been known to capture a possum or two on the family’s 10-acre property.

Molly was given a small piece of Coco’s dog blanket, telling her to “go find Coco.” She actually put her nose to the ground, and took off away from the trails used by four-wheelers toward the swamp.

“She started running in circles and there was Coco stuck in the mud, buried up to the top of her legs,” the family said. “I actually think Molly started digging her out because she was able to get out when she saw us.”

Checked out by her veterinarian, Coco suffered no injuries from her ordeal. And all of the burrs and mud were removed by her groomer.

“If it wasn’t for Molly, I don’t know what would have happened to Coco,” they agreed, adding that they may look into training for their “hero” to help her find other missing animals or people.

OK, just how smart ARE dogs??

They’re very, very smart, says Dr. Stanley Coren, an expert on animal intelligence, but smart in a different way than us.

In his book, The Intelligence of Dogs, Dr. Coren writes that dogs have three areas of intelligence:

  1. instinctive intelligence
  2. adaptive intelligence, and
  3. working and obedience intelligence.

Instinctive intelligence refers to a dog’s ability to perform the tasks it was bred for, such as herding, pointing, fetching, guarding, or supplying companionship.

Adaptive intelligence refers to a dog’s ability to solve problems on its own. In other words, the dog’s ability to independently problem solve and learn from previous experiences.

Working and obedience intelligence refers to a dog’s ability to learn from humans. How well does he do when taught by a human?

Purebred dogs have very different skills, depending on what they were bred to do.

 

Top 10 Smartest Breeds

Border Collie
Poodle
German Shepherd Dog
Golden Retriever
Doberman Pinscher
Shetland Sheepdog
Labrador Retriever
Papillon
Rottweiler
Australian Cattle Dog

Bottom 10 Smartest Breeds

Basset Hound
Mastiff
Beagle
Pekingese
Bloodhound
Borzoi
Chow Chow
Bulldog
Basenji
Afghan Hound

Are some breeds really “dumb”

If smart is defined as doing what the dog is taught, then a good argument can be made that the so-called super smart dogs, like German Shepherds, aren’t necessarily SMART, but they’re GOOD at doing what they’re told. “Dumb” may really be independence or stubbornness, even aloofness.

How smart are Morkies?

The cycle of (dog) life

The cycle of (dog) life

Last week’s news brought two intertwined dog stories:  Queen Elizabeth is mourning her last Corgi; meanwhile, Meghan Markle’s rescue dog has gone from rags to riches in a true-life Cinderella story.

Two stories in the news today speak to the bittersweet essence of loving a pet.

Queen Elizabeth has lost her last Corgi and she’s taking it hard. She is reportedly heartbroken that her beloved Willow has died. Willow was the last in the long line of Pembroke Welsh Corgi dogs, so beloved by the Queen.

The National Post recently reported,

[Willow] had been suffering from a cancer-related illness and was put down at Windsor Castle last Sunday (April 15, 2018), just days before the Queen’s 92nd birthday on Saturday.   In the dog’s final days, the Queen, who was reportedly hit “extremely hard” by the death, was still feeding and exercising Willow, to no avail.

Originally bred to herd cattle, sheep and horses, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an intelligent, affectionate little dog, ideal for families.

While still Princess Elizabeth, the Queen received her very own Corgi on her 18th birthday. The dog, called Susan, was a gift from her father, King George VI.  Susan the Corgi formed the basis of the Queen’s extensive line of Corgis. In fact, since 1952, Queen Elizabeth has raised more than 30 of her favourite dogs, Corgis. She stopped breeding the Corgis in 2015 so that none would be left behind when she died.




Princess Elizabeth with one of the Royal Family’s Corgis; photo from about 1936.

Left, the Queen greets some Corgis in a crowd in England. Right, on the cover of Vanity Fair, May 2016.

Another photo of the Queen and Corgis, published in the same issue of Vanity Fair. Taken on the steps of Windsor Castle’s East Terrace.

Corgis on vacation. Left, with Queen Elizabeth at Balmoral in 1976. Right, at Balmoral in 1994, the Queen and Prince Philip. Balmoral is ideal for dogs; the Queen and her family spend time there every autumn, enjoying the castle and its 50,000 acre estate.

The next generation: Meghan Markle’s Rescue Dogs Rags-to-Riches Story

Meghan Markle’s two rescue dogs. Left, Guy a beagle-mix and Bogart, a Labrador-Shepherd mix.

Guy has already made the move and settled in England. At first, it was uncertain if Bogart would make the trip. It’s now reported that Bogart was considered too old to adapt to the big move from Toronto to London, and that it would be kinder to let him continue to live in Canada. He’s with friends of Ms. Markle’s. Although she’s taken some heat for her decision in the gossip columns, she says it was a very difficult choice to make.

Queen or commoner, prince or pauper....

Pets are unique and hold a special place in our hearts. They love us unconditionally and it doesn’t take much to make them happy. Their loyalty is only matched by the way they care for us — perhaps even more so than we could ever care for them. Dogs can sense how we’re feeling. It doesn’t matter whether we’re happy, angry, or sad, they just inherently know what to do.

Read more about Welsh Corgis




Mark the dates

Mark the dates

Two dates of interest to dog lovers — Feb. 12, 13, 14, 2018. The 142nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Feb. 16 – 18, 2018 PetSmart’s adoption weekend at their stores. Check your local store for more details.

 

Westminister Kennel Club Dog Show

 

  • it’s the ritzy-est of the ritzy dog shows! The Westminster at Madison Square Garden, New York.
  • but save that $567 each for seats, and watch it on TV
  • fun to hear about the breeds and breed standards, and of course, the Yorkshire Terrier and the Maltese will be of special interest to Morkie lovers
  • here’s the website for more information 

 

And for THE BEST satire on purebred dog people, check out the classic mockumentary, Best in Show. Seventeen years old, it’s still hilarious and is the perfect send up of the doggy-dog crowd.

 

15 Prized Facts About Best in Show

Best in Show

 

Best in Show ratings

 

 

PetSmart’s fabulous National Adoption Weekend 

Gotta love an organization that gives SO much back.

Four times per year, PetSmart Charities works with Animal Welfare Organizations across North America to host pet adoption events within PetSmart stores.

When you attend, you’ll find dogs, puppies, cats, kittens and small pets all in need of a lifelong, loving home.

The amazing organizations they work with ensure each pet is spayed and neutered prior to adoption, giving adoption parents added peace of mind as they search for a new best friend.

Check it out at your local PetSmart.

 

 

Petsmart adoption weekend

 

 

Celebrity Dogs – Morkies, Yorkies & Maltese

Celebrity Dogs – Morkies, Yorkies & Maltese

Who doesn’t love little dogs? The rich and famous, who could have their pick of ANY breed in the world, are undoubtedly fond of Yorkies, Morkies and Maltese. Here are just a few celeb pups!

FAMOUS MORKIE DOGS - CELEBRITY DOGS

Drake is the latest Celeb to fall for a Morkie

Here he is in Toronto, pictured with the Morkie’s breeder. Below, a photo shoot at Langdon Hall.

drake and his new morkie puppy

Singer-Songwriter Jann Arden and her Morkie Midi

This is Jann Arden’s little Morkie called Midi (it’s a musical term).

Jann has had many adventures with her, including being kicked off a CN Train on her way to a concert in Canada’s capital, Ottawa. Part way through the trip, a porter noticed little Midi in a kennel cage and gave the singer two choices: stow her Morkie with the rest of the luggage (!!) or get off the train. Rumour has it Jann pulled the stop cord, and got off!     

 

Jann Arden and her dog kicked off CN train in Canada

Jann Arden's morkie

Jann Arden and Midi her morkie

Jann Arden's morkie called midi

Jann Arden and Jon Montgomery sit for an interview with Jann’s dog Midi in Toronto 

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

Jessie Tyler Ferguson and Leaf the Morkie

 

Fergusons two dogs

 

Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Justin Mikita and their dogs, Sam and Leaf, in front of their Los Feliz home

FAMOUS YORKIE DOGS - CELEBRITY DOGS

Johnie Depp and Pistol and Boo the Yorkies

Johnny Depp and his then-wife Amber Heard paid a $1,000 fine last year after pleading guilty to making a false customs declaration that she had no animals, during their working visit to Australia.

Australia’s deputy prime minister, Barnaby Joyce, has said the government will examine whether Johnny Depp committed “perjury” by smuggling dogs into the country while knowing it was illegal.

Johnny Depp and Yorkie

 

Johnny Depp seems crazy about his two Yorkies, pictured here on set in Australia to shoot one of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Molly Sims and Chloe and Poupette the Yorkies

Molly Sims and her pair of Yorkies, Chloe and Poupette. She takes them everywhere – along with her baby – in their own doggy stroller!

Whitney Houston and Doogie the Yorkie

The late Whitney Houston loved her little Yorkie Doogie. When the singer passed away, daughter Bobbi Kristina took over care of the Yorkie and added two more of her own. Whitney’s sister now looks after the remaining dogs.

The Nixons and Yorkie Pasha

Presidential Pup President Richard Nixon in the White House, 1970, with the family’s pet Yorkie Pasha. The dog was bought for his daughter Tricia, but Nixon seems to have loved the pup just as much.

nixons and dogs

 

 

STEVEN TYLER AND HIS YORKIES

Who says real mean can’t love little dogs?

More Yorkie Celebs

 Left to right. Academy Award-winning actress Natalie Portman; Rocker Ozzie Osbourne and wife Sharon with their baby; tennis superstar Venus Williams.

yorkie celebs ozzie osbourne and his wife

FAMOUS MALTESE DOGS - CELEBRITY DOGS

Celebrity Maltese dogs go waaaaaay back! 

Maltese dogs are one of the oldest breeds still around today. It’s believed they were pets to Ancient Greeks including Aristotle, a whopping 2,600 years ago! Many members of the British Royalty were very attached to these loving lapdogs, even centuries ago.

Left to right; the Duchess of Alba with her Maltese, painted by Goya in 1797; Marie Antoinette around 1780; Queen Elizabeth I in the 1580s; Mary Queen of Scots, with her Maltese in the 1590s. 

Elvis and his Maltese

In THIS century, fans of the Maltese included Elvis, left, who bought several of the dogs as gifts for girlfriends and his mother.

Diana Ross and two Maltese

It’s not clear if this was a publicity photo or if these two little Maltese belonged to Diana Ross. Either way, a classic pic. Here’s another picture with Ross, holding a Maltese called Baby Jane.

 

Diana Ross and Maltese called Baby Jane

Marilyn Monroe and Maf the Maltese

Marilyn Monroe‘s Maltese dog was a gift from Frank Sinatra and was called Maf, short for Mafia.

Maf was a gift from Frank Sinatra. Maf’s origins have been in confusion because Joe DiMaggio, who was increasingly close to Marilyn again after her divorce from Arthur Miller, was very jealous of Marilyn’s friendship with Sinatra. To dodge any ill feeling, it seems that Marilyn would tell some people that Maf was a gift from her publicist, Pat Newcomb.

– from The Foxling: Whatever Happened to Maf?

Elizabeth Taylors Dogs Maltese

 

Elizabeth Taylor and her Maltese Dogs

Another movie icon, Elizabeth Taylor, was crazy about dogs. Although she had a number of Poodles, and a Yorkie, MALTESE were her favorites.

Below right, with Sugar, her soulmate.

Morkies in the news

Morkies in the news

Roundup

I’ve been gathering some articles and news lately that feature Morkies. Enjoy!

New Dog Park will feature separate runs for large & small dogs

Town counsel in Bellmore (New York) have welcomed suggestions from pet owners about where a new dog park should be, and some of the details. One thing everyone agreed on was two different, separate areas. One for big dogs and one for small dogs.

In the excitement of off-leash play, a large dog can seriously injure a small one, just by stepping on him.If you take your Morkie to a dog run or dog park, be sure and watch carefully for large dogs. Your Morkie might start barking wildly, as Morkies will do, and push the bigger dog into play that’s too rough or even aggressive behaviour.

For more on dog park safety, please check out this blog: www.aboutmorkies.com/dog-park-safety

 

picture of a yorkie and a boxer

Thor (left) and Max the Morkie, cool off at the Newbridge Road Park in Bellmore last month. Next year, town officials hope to have a new dog park finished which will feature totally separate runs for large dogs, and for small dogs.

 

Morkie a star at Paws on Parade on Halloween

Benji, a Maltese/Yorkie mix, donned his chef outfit for the costume contest. He took second place in the “Dashing Dudes” division, edged out by an adorable long-haired Chihuahua dressed in the theme of the movie Up.

dog costume contest

Paul Bandong photo.

 

 

Sadie the Morkie looks after her owner

Heart attack patient Tim Secrease credits his Morkie Sadie, with helping him get back on his feet faster.
“It’s wonderful,” he said. “I’m not healthy. She sleeps on my pillow next to me, tends to me. She’s my emotional support dog.”

Tim Secrease credits Sadie, 2, his Morkie, with helping him cope with serious medical issues. In this photo, Sadie was visiting Secrease in the hospital, where he was being treated for a heart attack.

“She was there to comfort me after my fourth heart attack,” said Secrease of Crystal City. “I’ve had a fifth heart attack since then.”

First support dog was a Yorkie

Many (including Animal Planet researchers) believe that Smoky, the war hero dog from WWII, was the first therapy dog.

Found wandering in the jungles of New Guinea by an American soldier, Smoky was a full grown 4 pound female Yorkshire Terrier. Not able to find the owner, eventually Smoky turned over as winnings in a card game, won by American Corporal William Wynne. (Value: about $6)

She served with Wynne for almost 2 years, living in primitive conditions, running on coral in equatorial heat and surviving on army rations. Smoky was so smart and easily trained, that she performed many valuable functions for the army.

During her service, Smoky even parachuted!

After the war, Smoky was so talented, that Corp. Wynne began taking her to see wounded veterans in hospital. One of her first visits was to the Mayo Clinic where she cheered up servicemen. She soon became a regular visitor, as doctors noted her positive effect on the patients.

 

 

Burbank writer is inspired by his German shepherd-collie mix and the family Morkie

These stories can serve to inspire us to act better as people.

Fifty-four year old Mark Rickerby has already contributed 17 stories for the successful series “Chicken Soup for the Soul.” The family’s German shepherd-collie mix, Charlie, was often the source of inspiration for his success. Although Charlie is a large dog, he’s nicknamed the Gentle Giant.

Mark and his wife adopted a second dog, tiny Pixie, a Yorkie-Maltese mix. Pixie turned out to be much more aggressive than Charlie and would bully him without mercy. But the big dog never retaliated.

“We all have room for improvement,” he said. “We can all be kinder and gentler. I think dogs just teach us in general. Charlie’s my teacher, but I think every dog is kind of a teacher to a receptive student.”

 

 

 

Maltese-Yorkie mix is her best friend, says KidsDay reporter Leanna Tortorella

One Sunday in December a couple of years ago, Leanna came home from a sleepover with her friend, Sabrina. She went upstairs to unpack and that’s when her mom screamed her sister’s name, her brother’s name and her name. The kids all thought they were in trouble!

But, their dad was standing there with a new dog. Leanna had longed for a replacement for her older dog, Bruno, who had died the year before. But the parents were adamant, no more dogs.

“My mom said we were not going to get another dog, but she plays with Gino the most — like wow, mom!” says Leanna.

She continues, “Now when I leave for school, Gino knows and goes in his little doghouse, and it makes me so sad. When I get home I play with him and let him outside. Gino will grow to be only 10 pounds. At the moment he is 6 pounds. Gino is a Morkie, which is a Maltese and a Yorkshire terrier mix. I love him so much.”

 

thompson park day morkieMorkie is a Superhero

The Monmouth Park annual festival is a great play for families to enjoy displays, rides and games. And of course, pet costume competitions.  Here’s The Kessler family with their little superhero Wonder Woman Morkie.

 

GOT MORKIE NEWS?

Be sure to let us know, at deb@morkienation.com


 

More sad news about animals in storms

More sad news about animals in storms

Florida media is reporting that pets have been abandoned in huge numbers as Hurricane Irma approaches Florida. And even worse than just let out, some dogs have been chained to cars. These cars will be underwater within hours.

Animal Cruelty Charges Considered

As Hurricane Irma bore down on the Florida Keys with 130-miles-per-hour winds Sunday morning, Florida animal control officers were scrambling to rescue dozens of pets that had been abandoned by their owners before the Category 4 hurricane raked up Florida’s west coast.

Palm Beach County Animal Care reported animal control had found – and rescued – more than 50 dogs and cats abandoned outside ahead of Hurricane Irma. Given the danger of the approaching hurricane, many have characterized the pet owners’ abandonment as animal cruelty.

Besides the obvious danger of rising water and winds, even sand – blowing at over 100 miles per hour – can do serious damage to a dog.

Florida State Attorney Dave Aronberg is furious. He told CNN:

“This is a prime example of animal cruelty,” Aronberg said. “We will find you, and we will prosecute you.”

A harder but more humane choice was made by many other owners, who surrendered their pets to their local County Animal Shelter. Once surrendered, there’s no guarantee that owner will get his dog or cat back.

Officials across Florida are asking the public to be on the watch for abandoned animals and if it is safe, to please take them in and shelter them during the storm. Once winds reach 35 mph, animal control officers can’t go out and rescue, because of their own safety.

Not a chance of survival

This poor guy would have drowned for sure, locked in this cage. Luckily he was discovered before the storm surge, and taken to a shelter.

Also don’t shoot at the hurricane

OMG, who does this??? Well, the same people in Florida who think it’s OK to tie up a pet to inevitably drown during a hurricane,  was also told, no shooting bullets into the storm. They’ll come back around and can of course, kill.

 

don't shoot hurricanes

 

Very sad that people need this message:

 

 

Bad news: fireworks scare Morkie away from home

Bad news: fireworks scare Morkie away from home

An unfortunate story about a runaway Morkie in Marion County, Florida. Seems the family’s Morkie, “Tuttles” was frightened by July 4th fireworks.  He somehow slipped out the front door and ran away. Now, more than two weeks later, Tuttles is still missing and let’s face it, the chances of finding him are very slim. YOUR Morkie’s fear of fireworks could be fatal unless you take these steps to safety.

 

 

Fireworks are bad news for dogs

Fireworks are especially scary for small dogs. The ASPCA says that the days after July 4th each year, are the biggest for reporting runaway dogs. Seen from a dog’s point of view, you can understand it. Deafening, banging sounds, lights flashing in the sky, a moment’s peace, and then it starts again.

more dogs run away july 4th than any other day

Protect your Morkie’s safety during fireworks

Here are seven ways you can make fireworks less threatening – and safer – for your Morkie.

 

Take your dog to another location. If the fireworks are planned for right in your neighborhood, why not drop your Morkie off at a friend’s or relative’s where the frightening sounds and lights won’t bother her.

Provide a haven for your Morkie at home. Put him in a room as far from the sounds of the fireworks as possible, and close the door. Move his bed here, along with some food and water and leave a radio on at a reasonably high volume.

 

Try a Thundershirt.  They are specially designed to apply gentle, constant pressure to calm anxiety, fear, and over-excitement in your dog. It calms during fireworks, thunder, separation, travel, vet visits, and much more with no training and no medication so your dog stays drug-free. Thundershirt comes with a money-back guarantee, so if it doesn’t work with your Morkie, you can get a refund. Check it out here.

 

Give your Morkie a low dose of children’s Liquid Benadryl. For small dogs like Morkies, Yorkies, and Maltese, the dosage is quite low. Start with the children’s version of Benadryl, in liquid form, since tablets contain too much medication.  DO NOT USE “Benadryl Elixir,” a liquid product for adults – it contains alcohol, hazardous for dogs. Instead, use the children’s liquid – NOT SUGAR-FREE. Use this handy downloadable sheet for correct dosage, and always check with your Vet before giving your dog any medications.

Click to download a handy Benadryl dosage sheet.

HERE’S A HANDY CHART YOU CAN DOWNLOAD AND PRINT as a guide, and review with your Vet:  CLICK

 

Keep all exits to/from your home secure. By secure, I mean, take extra, extra precautions that your Morkie cannot access the door when you’re going in or out. You’d be surprised at just how quickly your dog can dart out the door if he’s been frightened by something like fireworks. When you’re opening your door, put your Morkie in another room, with the door closed, or have someone hold him.

 

And finally, don’t baby your dog when he’s afraid, but don’t punish him either. One extreme or the other will only lead to more frightening behavior; instead, act normally as you give your Morkie a little bit of soothing.

It’s hard to say goodbye, even when you’re a SuperStar!

It’s hard to say goodbye, even when you’re a SuperStar!

 

Singer, songwriter, actress Barbra Streisand says goodbye to beloved Samie.

[from the Animal Rescue site]

For the last 14 years, Barbra Streisand has been accompanied by her Coton de Tuléar, Sammie. The pair have grown extraordinarily close, and, apart from reassuring Sammie she would never walk alone, Streisand considered her fluffy friend the closest thing to ever having a daughter.  Now at 75,  La Streisand has had to do the hardest thing possible as a pet owner – say goodbye to her companion.

“We cherish every moment of the 14 years we had with her,” wrote Streisand, who has been married to actor James Brolin since 1998.

 

Barbra Streisand and her dog

 

What’s a Coton de Tulear?

Pronounced COTAWN DAY TWO-LEE ARE, according to the American Kennel Club.

A fluffy, snuggly dog, the Coton du Tulear isn’t that different from a Maltese. Both breeds are pure white, with hair not fur. So they’re especially good if you’re allergic. Needing only minimum exercise, the Coton is ideal for apartment living, and makes a great pet for older people.

 

Coton de tulear, some pictures

 

 

Some characteristics of the Coton de Tulear:

  • very friendly to family and to strangers
  • properly socialized, they’re also friendly to kids and to other dogs and even cats
  • size: 8 to 13 pounds, and 8 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder
  • the Coton de Tulear is not a big barker, and has a low prey drive (unlike the Yorkshire Terrier)
  • energy level is medium
  • Cotons are very affectionate and playful, and live to amuse their human companions
  • “medium” when it comes to ease of training, although some people find them a little difficult to potty train
  • general health is very good
  • his coat is fluffy, with a cottony texture. By adulthood, it’s usually around four inches long.
  • the Coton de Tulear originated on the island of Madagascar and is related to the Bichon Frise and the Maltese
  • a relatively new breed to North America, they were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2014

 

 

Intelligence ranking

Out of a list of more than 100 breeds, here’s how they all rank:

  • Yorkshire Terrier: #27
  • Bichon Frise: #45
  • Maltese: #59
  • Coton de Tulear: #60

(The smartest dog is the Border Collie, based on his trainability, and the least smart, is the Afghan Hound)

 

Learn More

Here are some links to read more about the Coton de Tulear:

American Kennel Club (AKC) 

The Coton de Tulear on Dogtime.com

Petful profile of the Coton

Dogs 101 at Animal Planet

 




Yulin Dog Meat Festival – cancelled this year!

Yulin Dog Meat Festival – cancelled this year!

Great, great news.

The Yulin Dog Meat Festival – also known as the Lychee and Dog Meat Festival – HAS BEEN CANCELLED …for this year!

At this annual “celebration” in China, it’s estimated that 10,000 to 15,000 dogs are killed and eaten each year. It’s hard to even imagine the size and scope of this living nightmare.

 

Condemned to die a barbaric death

Eating dog meat is highly offensive to most of the world. But even worse – the tens of thousands of dogs stolen, bought or specially raised each year – are skinned alive and boiled. Then they are butchered up and served as a delicacy. Visitors can even pick their choice from cages crammed full of live dogs – and it’s quickly skinned, boiled and served. Read more about Yulin festival here on wikipedia

 

This little pup doesn’t know he’s about to be skinned alive, boiled and served up for dinner at the Yulin dog meat festival.  Reported by the Daily Mail.

 

Over 11 Million Signatures made it happen

 

woman with maltese dog for yulin festivalAfter many, many years of protest around the world, Mr. Mo Gong Ming, Yulin Party Secretary of the government, put a temporary ban on the practice of eating dogs at the Yulin Festival, for this year only. The ban will come into effect on June 15—one week before the “festival” starts. It’s meant to be strictly enforced, with hefty fines and the risk of arrest for violations.  It’s a wonderful first step – but it’s simply that. Why do I say that?

  • dogs and cats will still be killed and cooked in advance of the festival
  • it may continue next year
  • food safety and regulations aren’t followed, so many things slip under the radar
  • trucks and cars are not banned from carrying pets into the area before the “festival”

 

What can you do?

Help make the ban permanent.

Please speak out now on behalf of animals still at risk, and appeal for an end to this intolerable horror for all time. Andrew Rowan, President and CEO of the Humane Society International urges us to continue the fight – you can sign the NEW petition here.

 

 


 

Yulin Protest T-Shirts

 

IHeartDogs.com Yulin protest tshirts

 

These are great t-shirts – quality fabric and excellent printing. And even better, every single shirt you buy from the website IHeartDogs.com, helps provide food to shelters across the United States. A t-shirt for example, means 7 shelter dogs fed a meal. Hoodie = 15 meals, and so on.

In partnership with Greater Good & Rescue Bank, the website IHeartDogs.com donated over 6 million meals to shelters in 2016!

There are lots of choices and styles, in men’s and women’s sizes.

(By the way, I do not receive any money for promoting IHeartDogs.com)

 

Animal Welfare Laws overdue for change

Animal Welfare Laws overdue for change

 

1892

According to the Humane Society International, animal welfare laws in Canada haven’t changed much since 1892. Yup, that’s right EIGHTEEN 92, not 1992. Penalties may have increased in recent years, but the scope and application of the current laws remain pathetically weak. So even the WORST animal abuse offender is very hard to punish.

 

Outdated and far behind

Our laws in Canada on animal abuse are hopelessly out of date.

The few updates that have been made over the years are rife with loopholes. For example, the law views animals as ‘chattel’ or mere possessions. In fact, under the Criminal Code, animal cruelty crimes are considered property offences instead of violence against a living, sentient creature.

 

Raising animals to fight is NOT illegal

The Canadian Criminal Code also does not provide protection for animals being trained to fight each other. It is an offence to engage in animal fighting, but not to train animals to fight nor to accept money from animal fighting.

The requirement to catch perpetrators in the act makes it very difficult to prosecute cases of dog fighting.

 

What can YOU do about it?

Take heart, when we band together we can make real change happen. Here are just a few of the steps we can take every day.

 

 

 

ABOUT MORKIES