Picking Up the Poo

Last week was National Scoop the Poop week. (I know, we can’t believe we missed it either.)

It’s no one’s favorite chore, but it is an important one. In addition to unattended poo being a smelly eyesore, an environmental concern and a bottom-of-the-shoe mess waiting to happen, in many cities–including Minneapolis–picking it up is the law. The city requires that pet waste be picked up immediately.

This might not seem like a big deal, but it is–quite literally–a big deal. It’s a 3.6 billion pound deal. There are some 75 million dogs in the US creating a whopping 3.6 billion pounds of waste every year.

If you don’t scoop the poop, not only are you technically breaking the law (though to be fair, we’ve never heard of anyone being hauled away for failing to pick up after Spot), but you’re creating a potentially dangerous environment. When left on the ground, doggie poo eventually ends up in the water table, along with the poo’s bacteria, viruses, and microbes, making it a nasty environmental pollutant. Some studies have placed pet waste as high as third or fourth on the list of sources of bacteria in contamined waters. Pet waste can also cause illness in other pets and people, with small children who spend lots of time playing on the ground and touching their eyes and mouths without thoughts about being sanitary at the highest risk.

Whether your pup is a Yorkie or St. Bernard, a mutt or a purebred, every pup poops, and they can’t pick it up themselves. As their loving owners (and responsible citizens) it’s our solemn dooty.

Poo Scooping Tips:

Keep an eye on your pup’s diet–a healthier diet with less additives tend to lead to less icky poo.

Some dogs can be trained to do their duty at home before or after a walk, helping you out so you don’t have to carry around a bag of the good stuff until you find a trash can. But don’t be too discouraged if you can’t get Fido on a set schedule like this; some breeds need a little exercise to go number two.

Go eco-friendly and use excess plastic bags around the house to pick up the poo, rather than buying plastic bags for this purpose.

Breathe through your mouth :)

The Animal Humane Society's Walk for Animals is this Saturday

Want to walk for animals this Saturday but St. Paul's a little out of the way? If Golden Valley is closer to your neck of the woods, then you're in luck.

This year, the Animal Humane Society will care for some 35,000 animals. Those pups, kittens and other critters need your help to get the care they deserve. Did you know the Animal Humane Society receives no federal, state or county funding? It operates out of funds generated by adoption and retail fees along with charitable donations. This weekend you can walk, collect pledges, donate and show your support for the Animal Humane Society and the many pets the organization cares for.

The annual Animal Humane Society's Walk for Animals, sponsored in part by Purina, starts at 10 a.m. at the Animal Humane Society in Golden Valley. The Walk heads through Theodore Wirth Park and then back to the Animal Humane Society, for a total of five miles (though you can turn around at any point).

Bring your pets of all shapes and sizes–as long as they're friendly, of course, and up to date on vaccinations.

Come prepared for the weather–the walk is on, no matter the conditions!

Festivities begin bright and early at 8:30 a.m. with live music and activities, followed by the Walk at 10, pet contests at noon and a variety of pet-centered activities until 2 p.m., including a microchip and nail trim clinic.

Calling it "the best stand-up-on-your-hind-legs-and-bark event of the year," the Animal Humane Society has a hefty goal of $1,000,000 for this fundraising event. It's a big number, but nearly half of the funds have already been raised and the walk is still four days away. And with that tight timeline, if you don't have time to collect funds for the event before the weekend, don't worry, there is no minimum fundraising requirement to attend the event. However, keep in mind that the goal of the Walk is to raise funds for animals in need and a $25 donation is suggested.

If you receive pledges after the Walk, mail them to the following address with a note including your name, address and a request to add the funds to your Walk total:

Attn: Walk for Animals
845 Meadow Lane North
Golden Valley, MN 55422

If you are unable to attend the Walk but you'd still like to contribute, you can mail your donation to this address as well.

For more information, visit this website.

First Annual No-Kill Walk for the Animals is April 30

Hey, animal lovers. What are you doing next Saturday?

April 30 marks the first annual Twin Cities No-Kill Walk for the Animals, a fundraiser for Minnesota no-kill rescues and animal shelters. The walk will be held around Como Lake, with registration at Como Park Pavilion (1360 Lexington Parkway North, St. Paul) at 9 a.m.

Bring your pets who play well with others, leashes, and bags to pick up after your four-legged companions.

Collect donations from friends and family before the walk, and bring your own donation as well. Every penny counts.

This year's goal is $25,000.

You can choose your own organization to donate to. Participating rescue organizations include Homeward Bound, Secondhand Hounds, Pet Project Rescue, Minneapolis St. Paul Miniature Schnauzer Rescue, Basset Buddies Rescue, Inc., Gentle Touch Animal Sanctuary, Coco's Heart Dog Rescue, Rescued Tails Animal Sanctuary, Small Dog Rescue of Minnesota, and TLC Canine Rescue. A complete list can be viewed here.

Want to spread your donation around? There will be a community donation jar at the event that will be divided equally among participating organizations.

The No-Kill Walk is sponsored by Happy Hound Rescue. Happy Hound Rescue will be offering adorable 'Dogs Rock the World' t-shirts to participants who obtain $50 in donations.

The walk is on rain or shine. Come support animals in need!

For more information, visit the No-Kill Walk for the Animals Facebook page.

April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month

We know the importance of first aid awareness for our children, family and friends, but what about our four-legged friends? As with any first aid knowledge, you hope to never need it, but if you ever do, you’ll be very grateful you learned it.

April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month. The American Red Cross has a wealth of information for keeping your pet safe–more than we can fit in this blog, so we recommend you visit the Red Cross website. We’ve also highlighted some of the most important notes here.

Knowing what is normal is critical in being able to spot what is abnormal. Do you know what your pet's gums look like? How about average temperature, heart rate and breathing pattern? If the answer is no, go have a little cuddle with Fido or Felix and familiarize yourself with your pet's physical norms. When you know what is right, it will be easier to spot when something is wrong.

After the brutal winter we had this year, I know we're all ready to worship the sun til September, but the heat can be dangerous for our pets. It gets even more dangerous when a pet is left in a hot car. Make it a rule not to leave your pet in the car, even for a short time–heatstroke can happen quickly and is dangerous, sometimes even fatal. It's important to know the signs of heatstroke and what to do if you spot them in your pet.

Heatstroke Signs:

Heavy Panting

Inability to Calm Down

Red Gums

Fast Heart Rate

Inability to Get Up

What to Do if You Suspect Heatstroke:

Take Temperature Rectally

If it's above 105 degrees, cool your pet down with a water hose

Stop cooling when your pet's temp reaches 103 degrees

Bring your pet to the veterinarian right away.

As we mentioned in an earlier posting, some seemingly innocuous plants and flowers can be dangerous or even fatal for your pet. Brush up on ferocious flora and fauna at the ASPCA Poison Control website.

CPR isn't just for people. Learn how to perform it on your pet.

The Red Cross also recommends assembling a pet emergency kit. In it, keep things like leashes, food, water, medications, copies of medical records and current photos of your pet.

Want to learn more?

Some Red Cross chapters offer courses in Pet First Aid. Find your chapter here.

The Red Cross has also put together a Pets and Disaster Safety Checklist. Check it.

You can also visit the Red Cross Store online for dog and cat first aid guides with DVDs

Meet Your Future Pet

Spring is a popular time to add a four legged friend to a family. Warmer weather, longer days and time off from school come together to create a more puppy- or kitten-friendly atmosphere. No one likes house-training in a snowstorm.

If you are ready to take the leap and add a pet to your party, here are some upcoming adoption events you may want to check out.

I found my kitten at an adoption event and we bonded immediately. The picture above is from her first evening at home. It didn't take her long to feel comfortable...

Saturday, April 9

Underdog Rescue

Pet adoption event at Urbanimal in Uptown

12:30–2:30

Secondhand Hounds

Pet adoption event at Minneapolis PetSmart

11:00am–2pm

Homeward Bound Dog Rescue of Minnesota

Dog adoption event at Petco in Maple Grove

11:30am–4:00pm

Last Hope, Inc. Companion Pet Rescue

Pet adoption event at Apple Valley Petco

11:00am–3:00pm

Sunday, April 10

Last Hope Inc. Companion Pet Rescue

Pet adoption event at Apple Valley Petco

12:00pm–3:00pm

Saturday, April 16

Secondhand Hounds

Pet adoption event at Eden Prairie PetSmart

11:00am–2:00pm

Pet Haven Inc. of Minnesota

Small dog adoption event at Chuck and Don's Pet Food Outlet Calhoun

11:00am–1:00pm

...and...

Medium and large dog adoption event at Petco Richfield

11:00am–1:00pm

Sunday, April 17

Underdog Rescue

Pet adoption event at It's a Pet's Life in Plymouth

12:30pm–2:30pm

And if you do attend any of these events, comment and let us know how it went–especially if you find a furry companion to take home.

Protect Your Pet from Poisons

We may have missed National Poison Prevention Week (March 20–26), but that doesn’t mean we can’t bring you some helpful tips and information to protect your precious pet.

The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) released the top 10 pet toxins of 2010 after its Animal Poison Control Center fielded some 167,000 phone calls regarding pets exposed to possible poisons over the year. Let’s make this a learning situation. Here are the top 10 culprits:

Medications for People

The things that are meant to make us better can also make our pets sick. The ASPCA said a full quarter of the calls their Animal Poison Control Center took were regarding human medications, most often over-the-counter pain meds, antidepressants and ADHD medication.

Insecticides

Falling shortly behind medications, insecticides made up about one-fifth of the APCC calls. These include not only household bug control products but things like flea control for your pet. The ASPCA warns to always read label directions and follow them carefully.

Rodenticides

Like insecticides, but, you know, for rodents. Keep in mind that the same poison meant to lure mice or rats could lure your cat or dog as well. If you use rodenticides, be sure to place them somewhere your pets cannot reach.

Food

Tasty for us, dangerous for them. The ASPCA reminds us that some seemingly harmless foods are dangerous for pets, like grapes and raisins (canine kidney failure) or onions and garlic (anemia).

Veterinary Medications

Like kids’ cold medicine or gummy vitamins, many pet medications are flavored. This is helpful when you need to give your pet a dose, but dangerous if your pet finds them too tasty and ingests more than he or she should.

Chocolate

Sometimes it’s strange to think that something so delicious and wonderful could be bad for anybody at all. Alas, it’s true. And according to the ASPCA, the darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is for your pet.

Household Items

From cleaning supplies to batteries, everyday items around the house can be very dangerous if ingested. Do your best to keep hazardous items where pets can’t get to them.

Plants and Flowers

While they clean the air and add to the aesthetic of your house, some flora and fauna can also prove fatal. For example, both lilies and sago palms are dangerous for pets.

Herbicides

If you use herbicides, be sure to keep pets away from the area until it is dry and read and follow all instructions.

Garage Items

Our garages and sheds are often ripe with dangerous items. Be sure to keep items like antifreeze and fertilizers out of your pets’ reach.

Dog and Cat Breeder Regulation Bill

Minnesota is one of the top producers of puppies in the nation and a prominent producer of kittens. It is also one of 16 states that have yet to regulate commercial dog and cat breeders. This means Minnesota dog and cat breeders are not required to obtain licenses for breeding, are not inspected by the State, and are not required to adhere to any set standards of care. And all too often, this lack of oversight leads to unhealthy and dangerous conditions for defenseless young animals. A new bill titled The Dog and Cat Breeder Regulation Bill could change all that.

Introduced by Minnesota Senator Barb Goodwin and Minnesota House Representative John Lesch, and supported by the Animal Humane Society, Animal Folks MN and a host of others, the bill stands to ensure the healthy and safe breeding of puppies and kittens throughout Minnesota.

The bill defines a commercial dog or cat breeder as “a person, other than a hobby breeder, who possesses or has an ownership interest in animals and is engaged in the business of breeding animals for sale or for exchange in return for consideration, and who possesses ten or more adult intact animals and whose animals produce more than five total litters of puppies or kittens per year.” For comparison, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) starts licensing breeders at four breeding females and the majority of states in the US start licensing breeders at two to 10 breeding animals.

If passed, the Dog and Cat Breeder Regulation Bill would spell out standards for breeders in the areas of veterinary care, animal well-being and inspections.

Setting this bill apart from animal cruelty laws that are already on the books in Minnesota, regulation is a preventive measure whereas anti-cruelty laws can be put into action only after cruelty has taken place. In simpler terms, regulation is proactive while anti-cruelty laws are reactive.

Want to do something to help? You can sign an online petition to pass The Dog and Cat Breeder Regulation Bill here . You can also contact your State legislators. Calling is your best bet for being heard. It’s also best to refer to the bill by number rather than name (Senate File 462; House File 702).

Learn more at the Animal Humane Society’s website and the Animal Folks MN website. You can also watch a Fox 9 clip regarding the bill here.

Meet Alex and Ashle

It's time to meet a couple more of the people in our pack. This time, it's Alex and Ashle.

Name: Alex Johnson

When did you first start with Bark Avenue: January 2011

Why did you pursue this line of work: I love dogs but unfortunately do not have the space for one at home. Walking dogs lets me feel like the fun uncle who gets to come over and play with the pups.

Favorite breed: Goldendoodle or Boxer

Favorite fictional animal: Clifford because he's huge! I don't think I'd want to clean up after him though :)

Favorite dog/cat sitting memory (thus far): I walk two miniature poodles named Indy and Napoleon. The first time I met them they came running up to me and jumping several feet into the air. They looked like flying squirrels, it was adorable. They're quickly becoming my favorite pups.

Name of your first pet: Martini, my cat.

Current pets: Martini, my cat :)

If you were a pup, what breed would you be: I think I'd want to be a Boxer. They just seem so built and athletic, two things I'll probably never be... ha

Favorite thing to do when you're not dog/cat sitting: Take photographs.

Guilty pleasure: Watching 30 Rock and eating Taco Bell :/

Name: Ashle Briggs Horton

When did you first start with Bark Avenue: November 2010

Why did you pursue this line of work: I've always loved dogs and it's a perfect complement to my other job as a freelance writer.

Favorite breed: I have a soft spot for French Bulldogs. They look like little alien monsters–in the best way possible.

Favorite fictional animal: Wilbur in Charlotte's Web totally won my heart. And then there's Babe. Apparently I have something for pigs.

Favorite dog/cat sitting memory (thus far): All of the pups seem excited to go on their walks, which is adorable, but no one shows it like Otis. He gets to the door before I can even turn the key and once I'm inside he greets me by jumping as high as he can and wiggling mid-air. There's nothing like it.

Name of your first pet: Sylvester–a tabby cat I was terrified of. I was three years old and he was big and mean. But there was also Stratton, a large black lab who was the sweetest pup you could ever meet.

Current pet: Bijou, a gray striped, green eyed cat who gives hugs when she's asleep

If you were a pup, what breed would you be: A Spanish Water Dog–I've always secretly wanted dreadlocks.

Favorite thing to do when you're not walking pups: Writing at one of the local coffee shops

Guilty pleasure: Coffee-flavored anything. Though I don't feel that guilty about it. :)

Get to Know Homeward Bound

This week, Bark Avenue introduces you to one of Minnesota's great rescue organizations, Homeward Bound. Laura Berg of Homeward Bound fills us in on what makes the nonprofit tick and what we can do to help.

BA: What was the impetus for starting Homeward Bound Dog Rescue?

HB: Homeward Bound was started about 15 years ago with just one litter of abandoned puppies. Cheryl Adams, the director, saw a need for more rescue services around the area and started Homeward Bound. We since have grown from one foster home and just a few dogs to over 100 dogs, anywhere from 15 to 25 foster homes at a time and about 20 dogs placed every weekend. We now have the ability to take dogs from many of the agreeable pounds in Minnesota and when we have space we also will take dogs from high kill pounds down south.

BA: How many pets have you rescued so far?

HB: We have rescued around 20,000 pets (dogs, cats, and the occasional ferret or miniature piglet!)

BA: You have a rule that all Homeward Bound Rescue dogs must live indoors. Can you tell us why you created that rule?

HB: That rule mainly has been created to encourage and place dogs in homes where they will be part of the pack/family. We see far too many dogs who end up living out their lives in kennel runs or on chains outside, forgotten, and almost neglected. Dogs crave and need love, attention, exercise, training, and to be a part of a pack. When they end up outside, rarely do they get that attention. We make exceptions in the case of certain dogs and certain homes (farm or hobby farm type homes that want a dog to work the farm with them), but overall we are strict on our dogs living indoors.

BA: You seem to have a soft spot for black dogs. Why is that an important cause for you?

HB: Black dogs are often the first to be killed in pounds and the last to be adopted. The reason it has become so important to us is that there is nothing "wrong" with these dogs. They make just as good of a pet as a lighter colored dog but people still overlook them. Our purpose is to make the general public aware of this so rather than walking past the black dog and seeing him/her as ordinary, they stop and take a second look or a moment to get to know them. We are soon going to have a website that highlights our black dogs for adoption specifically to try to bring more attention to the issue of black dogs getting overlooked and euthanized at such high rates. (www.notjustanotherblackdog.webs.com).

Personally, for me it's an important cause because most of my fosters tend to be the big, black dogs. I had an absolutely amazing foster dog who spent over two years with me for no other reason that she was a big, black dog. She was perfect in every way and was passed over for two years despite our efforts to get Kelty attention. I have four big black foster dogs right now who almost never get interest or attention simply because they look "ordinary" or "boring."

BA: What has been the most rewarding thing for you with Homeward Bound Rescue so far?

HB: The most rewarding thing for me personally is when a dog that has been with us for a long time, has special needs, or has captured a lot of our hearts finally gets a home. Of course, it brings some tears and some sadness, but at the end of the day it's the best possible feeling to know that a dog who otherwise would be dead or not even had a chance ends up in a loving forever home. Rescue does not come without heartbreak but it is also incredibly rewarding.

BA: Do you have any pets of your own?

HB: I have three dogs of my own as well as reptiles (another passion of mine!) I think it's really hard to do rescue and not have a pet of your own!

BA: What’s your best advice for someone who is interested in adopting a pet?

HB: Decide first what characteristics you are looking for in a pet (age, size, breed, temperament, activity level, etc). Once you have an idea of what you are looking for, look up on Petfinder or a shelter/rescue website to check out the dogs. There are millions of dogs waiting on homes. Get as much information as possible about the dog's personality and decide based on what you are looking for if it would be a good fit in your home. Most rescues will have you fill out a pre-adopt application as well. It's not to be nosey or to know everything about your personal life but rather to make sure the dogs we have put so much of our love, time, and energy into are going to a home that will treat them well and love them as much as we have. Most rescues have adoption events to attend as well to meet the dogs in person. Spend time with the dogs you are interested in and get a feel for their personalities. Sometimes the dog picks you! Once you bring your new dog home, know that the first few days are going to be overwhelming for both you and the dog. Relax, take it slow, and have patience. It's a big change for everyone–a happy change, of course, but a big change. If you have questions after adoption, don't hesitate to contact the rescue/foster home for the dog–most are more than willing to help with any issues/concerns/questions.

BA: What about people who are unable to adopt at this time–what can they do to help?

HB: We can always use volunteers to come walk the dogs at adoption days, donations (financial and supplies), and foster homes if they can temporarily take a dog into their home. Most importantly, spread the word!

DIY Doggie Baths at Ollu

Looks like I spoke too soon. My last post was about the thaw and now, well, we’re buried under a foot of snow again. Yikes. However, that makes this post all the more fitting. Between the snow and the mud you may be starting to think about how your pup is overdue for a bath. Unfortunately, bathing a dog usually falls under the category of unpleasant chore or big expense. Local business Ollu to the rescue.

Minnesota native Jodel Fesenmaier spent four years living in San Diego, where she adopted Oliver and Lulu, black lab and German shorthair mix litter mates, and took advantage of the city’s self-serve dog washes. Returning to Minneapolis in 2007 to be closer to family, Fesenmaier was surprised to find that the City of Lakes had no such service.

“When I lived in San Diego, there were several dog washes there. I went to a few of them and thought it was such an awesome idea,” Fesenmaier said. “I just assumed we had them here.”

When Fesenmaier couldn’t find one, she thought maybe she’d start her own. She immediately set to work on a business plan and in two short years, Ollu emerged at 221 Main Street SE in Minneapolis.

Named for Oliver and Lulu, the two pups whose bathing needs inspired the business, Ollu offers what Fesenmaier had been unable to find in Minneapolis–a DIY dog wash. You bring your pup and a willingness to get your hands dirty, and Ollu has the rest, including large tubs, aprons, natural shampoos, towels, dryers and more. There are five wash stations and bathing is first come, first served.

“The best part is you get to leave the mess with us and leave with a clean dog,” Fesenmaier said.

Ollu is open seven days a week and is always staffed, so although it’s a self-service dog wash, someone is always available to help if needed. Ollu also offers appointments for full service bathing if DIY’s not your thing. And while self-service haircuts are not allowed, Ollu does have full service grooming as well.

“Sometimes people think of it as a do it yourself car wash; it’s not like that,” Fesenmaier clarified.

No matter the size or breed of your dog, Fesenmaier recommends monthly bathings. The difference, she says, depends on activity level.

“If you’re taking your dog to the dog park several times a week, I’d bump up the dog washing,” Fesenmaier said.

And what needs to be done even more often than that? Brushing. As often as a few times a week to prevent matting. It’s a big deal, Fesenmaier said, especially for the longer coats.

Since returning to Minnesota, Fesenmaier has added a great dane named Axel to her brood. But as far as we know, there are no plans to rename the company to Axollu.

And now, here’s a super special offer for you, reader:

Bark Avenue clients will receive 10% off a full service grooming appointment at Ollu by mentioning this blog post. So, go on, pretty up your pup.

Return to the Parks

For all you dog owners out there who have been breathing a sigh of relief or dancing in the streets, thanking whatever higher power you thank for the sweet, sweet thaw, we hear you. It may be an ugly, sloppy mess out there right now, but unlike recent weeks, you’re no longer in danger of frostbite when you take your furry friend outside to do his business.

So go on, get back out there. Hop in those mud puddles. Laugh in the faces of rapidly disappearing ice dams and frozen mountains on the boulevards. Imagine them with the voice of the Wicked Witch of the West (I’m melting, meeeelllllting!)

To aid in your return to the great outdoors this spring, we’ve put together a list of some of the city’s finest dog friendly frolics. Unhook the leash at these dog parks, but before you do, remember that the city requires a permit for off-leash areas.

Victory Prairie Off-Leash Recreation Area

The new Victory Prairie Dog Park is located in the Camden neighborhood of Minneapolis.

St. Anthony Parkway Off-Leash Recreation Area

South of St. Anthony Parkway, this dog park is a full 2.3 acres.

North Loop Play Area

Picture a playground for dogs. Next to the Herschel Lofts, the play area is 6,000 square feet.

Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area

On the south end of Minnehaha Park, this dog park is 4.3 acres. Let Fido run!

Loring Park Play Area

The Loring Park Play Area is 10,000 square feet of dog-friendly fun, featuring a bridge, and limestone boulders. The Play Area is located at the north corner of the park.

Lake of the Isles Off-Leash Recreation Area

One of the most beautiful areas of Minneapolis, Lake of the Isles also boasts a 3.6 acre dog park at the south end of the lake.

Gateway Park Play Area

The Gateway Park Play Area is located on 4th Avenue South between 10th and 11th Streets.

Franklin Terrace Off-Leash Recreation Area

East of I-94 and alongside Riverside Park, the Franklin Terrace Off-Leash Recreation Area is 1.6 acres.

For information on more than 40 off-leash areas in the metro area, consider picking up a copy of the Twin Cities Dog Lover's Map.

Meet Haley & Regina

It's time we introduced you to a couple of our two-legged members. Meet Haley and Regina, two ladies with true passions for the animals they spend their days with. Read on to learn about Haley's Thanksgiving Day mishap and just who Tobey the Tyrant is.

Name: Haley Sarff

When did you first start with Bark Avenue: October 2010

Why did you pursue this line of work: I was looking for a flexible part time job that involved working with animals. I have a full time job and attend school part time so my options were limited. Bark Avenue works perfectly!

Favorite breed: Black labs!

Favorite fictional animal: Nemo. He is awesome and so cute!

Favorite dog/cat sitting memory (thus far): Getting covered from head to toe in Pinky's fur on Thanksgiving Day in my dress clothes with no lint roller.

Name of your first pet: George, a black and white domestic shorthair

Current pets: My wonderful black lab, Mikey and my three kitties, Stella, Leala, and Bear

If you were a pup, what breed would you be: I would be a Labrador Retriever because I love to be outside, love to swim, I am very loyal to members of my "pack," and I have a goofy personality.

Favorite thing to do when you're not dog/cat sitting: Running, camping, hiking and listening to music

Guilty pleasure: Ice cream

Name: Regina Taillefer

When did you start with Bark Avenue: April 2009
Why did you pursue this line of work: I love animals and the thought of being paid to play with them was a done deal.
Favorite breed: Great Danes. I have a soft spot for big dogs.
Favorite fictional animal: Wishbone. The PBS show was a hit with me.
Favorite dog/cat sitting memory (thus far): I can't think of one memory that was my favorite. I love them all.
Name of your first pet: My first pet was a hamster named David after my crush in kindergarten.
Current pets: I currently have Charlie the Communist, a five year old Black Lab/German Shepard mix, Tiki Torture, a seven year old Chihuahua, Tobey the Tyrant, a six year old tuxedo kitty cat, and Rockey Balboa, a 28 year old Cockatiel.

If you were a pup, what breed would you be: I believe I would be a Mini Australian Shepherd. I fostered a Mini Australian Shepherd before. She was the most amazing dog I have ever met. She was so adorable, sweet, kind, loving, intelligent, and got into ALL KINDS of trouble. (She is the one in the middle of the picture.)

Favorite thing to do when you're not dog/cat sitting: I love to take my own to the river or the doggy park.
Guilty pleasure: Talking to my dogs as if they will answer me back with words