Junior Auxiliary Members of American Legion Unit 348 help the Pets of Vets.

Junior Auxiliary Members of Unit 348, Brick, NJ

My posts for Memorial Day have centered on the role of military dogs. In the May of 2010, I wrote about Harris Done’s film The War Dogs of the Pacific, an excellent documentary about the role of the military dog during WWII.  http://wardogsmovie.com/about.html  Last year, I reran that post as I think it is such a poignant and meaningful film. Sometimes you can catch it on the History Channel or the Military Channel.

I have written over 150 posts now and I’ve come to believe that although I am writing about dogs, I am really writing more about humans. Fittingly, that is what Captain Will Judy, the man who founded National Dog Week tried to impart to his fellow man when he established his National Dog Week Movement in the shadow of the Great Depression.

Back in the 20s through the 60s, before blogs, YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Judy reached out to a vast army of dog lovers through his books and Dog World Magazine with the message that humans did not know what the dog was truly capable of. Before the United States even had an organized military dog force, Judy was speaking about their value on the battle field and our obligation to care for them on and off the field.

Ultimately, human and dog cannot be separated. Together they exemplify what I’ve come to term “Divine Reciprocity.”

Here is an excerpt from my biography of Will Judy (to be published by McFarland & Co. in 2013)

By the observance of National Dog Week 1945, the war had ended, but the contributions of the dog were not forgotten. “Dog to Have His Day Here Marks National Week,”  declared the Milwaukee Journal.

That year’s observance paid tribute to the members of the K-9 Corps throughout the world with the slogan, “In War, In Peace, Man’s Best Friend,” with Robert L. Ripley of Believe it or Not notoriety serving as the Chairman of the observance.

Patriotic war veteran Will Judy was among those who truly understood the ultimate sacrifices dogs had made for the nation. Finally, after over two decades of hard work, his notion to help the dogs of the nation brought to light his quest to honor the dogs of war, in addition to ensuring that every dog had a good home and a responsible and caring owner.

When we talk of dogs and their involvement in the military, we may speak of the dogs that are actually trained for combat, dogs that are in need of placement after their service is complete and dogs that are trained and certified as Service and Therapy dogs to assist veterans of war.Here is a book that I am planning to read this summer on that subject, written by Jane Miller  http://www.healing-companions.com/ .

I read recently that many are fighting to ensure military dogs are properly cared for after serving their country and risking their lives for humans on the battlefield. You can read more on this at http://www.save-a-vet.org/d7/index.php

During the months of May and June, the American Legion Unit 348 Junior Auxiliary Membership of Brick Township will be raising funds and collecting supplies for the Companion Animals of our deployed military troops in a project called “Helping the Pets of Vets.”

Members of our Armed Forces who spend time away from home serving in active military duty must find loving and caring temporary homes for the pets they leave behind.  Knowing that their beloved Companion Animals are being properly cared for and will be reunited with them upon their return provides a measure of comfort.

Amy Ross, coordinator of the Junior Membership of Post 348 explains that, “For many of those serving in active duty, their pets are their family members and sometimes their only companions.”  Our Junior Members are animal-lovers and thought it would be a nice idea and lots of fun to help them.”

A portion of donations will go to help Seer Farms, a unique animal sanctuary in Jackson, NJ that provides temporary homes for displaced pets.

Those who wish to participate in this meaningful cause can drop off pet supplies and food at a drop box at The American Legion Post, 822 Mantoloking Road, Brick Township, New Jersey, 08723. Monetary donations can also be mailed to this address, made payable to AMERICAN LEGION 348 JUNIORS. Please mark envelope ATTENTION: JUNIORS.

I wish you all a safe and meaningful holiday weekend. God Bless.

Donations for Helping the Pets of Vets Accepted Here

Bless the Beasts and the Bloggers

Puppies on the Mend at Ruffles Rescue

The other day I posted a photograph of a tick-infested puppy on my Facebook page. To say it was tick-infested is an understatement.  It was not a pretty sight to say the least, it was revolting actually, and I know some were put off by it.

This pup was one of six and their momma rescued by Ruffles Rescue in Exeter, California.  They had posted a request for donations to help these pups who were now suffering from tick fever and were hanging on for dear life.

Because sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words, the rescue group got such a response they asked people to stop sending donations and instead, asked them to consider donating to one of their local rescues. This is definitely the hallmark of a legitimate and caring Rescue Group.

Ruffles Rescue’s facebook page credits a group called Saving Grace Animal Rescue in Birmingham, AL, for being their angels.  Because this group and other generous donors, as of today, the puppies are starting to eat and play the way they should be. Their mom is also doing well.

I don’t generally put revolting photos on my wall. But in this case, all those shared postings with photo did help and I would do it again for that reason.  Many people asked, “Who would do that to a dog?” “How does a pup get like that?”

And that brings me to the most important part of my post.  If more people would help to get more cats and dogs spayed and neutered, cases like this would not be so frequent. It is alarming to see so many pregnant homeless companion animals that end up giving birth in the wild or at a shelter. Many will not find homes; it is just a sad fact.

Each month, I have my Pay Pal Account set to automatically deposit $2.00 into the Chip in Account of a Group called Project Pets – Spay, Neuter, Love. Last January, on the occasion of my birthday, I set up a birthday chip-in account which had a very nice result. Two dollars doesn’t sound like much, but at last check, I saw that they now have over 100 donors to this very legitimate cause. If only ten percent of my facebook friends donated $2.00 a month, we would save many lives because Spay and Neuter is one of the best forms of Rescue there is. If you wish to donate, here is there link: http://www.spayneuterlove.org/index.html

On a more writerly note, I was very happy when recently, a fellow author and friend, Tara Hall http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5286654.Tara_Fox_Hall/ blognominated me for a “Beautiful Blogger,” Award . Thank you Tara. It’s just a fun way to pick seven fellow-bloggers you think deserve a little recognition among the millions of blogs that exist now.  The catch, I have to list seven things about me…and pick seven other “Beautiful” Bloggers! So here goes.

Seven things about me:

1) I was born the year of the dog in Chinese Astrology. Most times I am a docile Golden retriever but when someone hurts or talks “bad stuff” about someone I care about, the well-trained by fierce rottie in me emerges.

2) If sleeping was an Olympic event, I would have more medals than Michael Phelps.

3) I have had no sense of smell for as long as I can remember. Sometimes I get a whiff of something, and I say, “I can smell!” Not as dramatic as, “I can see or walk,” and sometimes it can be misinterpreted as in I am smelly.

4) If I never see snow or feel temperatures below 70 again I would be more than happy.

5)I love to eat. Anything Italian or from the sea, especially, accompanied by a dry martini with bleu-cheese stuffed olives or really good full-bodied red wine.

6) If I could, I would outlaw the smoking of cigarettes and impose severe penalties for texting while driving.

7) I wish that not one more person would purchase another puppy from a retailer. I wish they realized that over 90 percent of those pups came from commercial puppy mill facilities and that every dollar they spend at these establishments keeps a dog in emotional and physical poverty somewhere in the nation. I wish that everyone would spay or neuter their pets whenever appropriate.

Bonus 8) I am blessed with a great husband, parents, friends (humanoid and virtual) a loving dog. Every day I am inspired by the good deeds those around me accomplish and for the support they lend.

Here are my “Beautiful Blogging” Seven, in no particular order! Now they are invited to offer seven items about themselves…and designate seven others as “Beautiful Bloggers.”

Kevin Middleton – http://thebattleofthegatehouse.webs.com/

Patrick Mahaney – http://teddyhilton.com/2012-05-02-dr-patrick-mahaney-rasing-puppies-to-adults

David Lender – http://davidlender.blogspot.com/

Nikki Moustaki – http://www.dogchannel.com/dog-blog/mutterings-with-nikki-moustaki/what-do-dogs-know.aspx

Jamie Wilsoncraft -  http://www.jswilsoncroft.blogspot.com

Willie Wonka – http://askwilliewonka.blogspot.com/

Alanna Chasin – http://chasinpets.com/

And I must add an eight: Marsha Zeringue  http://Coffeecanine.blogspot.com/

Happy Mother’s Day from the Moms of FULL SNOW MOON

Under a Full Flower Moon.

After two weeks of promoting my novel FULL SNOW MOON on a Virtual Blog Tour, I thought it would be appropriate to present this Blog Post. Thanks for your continued support! http://www.amazon.com/Full-Snow-Moon-ebook/dp/B007DXMYG0/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1336440492&sr=1-1

Here is a “repost” of this original: http://www.lovetoreadromance.com/2012/05/guest-lisa-begin-kruysman-author-of.html

The Moms of FULL SNOW MOON

Thank you for having me here as a guest post. As it is just before Mother’s Day, I thought I might talk be nice to talk about the mother’s of my YA Novel FULL SNOW MOON.

The three main characters of the story are young men in their late teens, so you might be surprised to hear that the moms in the story actually play influential roles and enjoy good relationships with their sons, for the most part.

There’s Alex, the self-absorbed turned enlightened surfer, the loyal, sensitive and creative Denis and Eli Hampton, the ghostly character of FULL SNOW MOON, whose mother has a very big part in how this story gets told through her diary written in the late 1800s.

At the beginning of the book, Alex, like many young adults his age, is restless, bored and uncertain about his future. He has everything he wants and enjoys a cushy lifestyle. Due to his immaturity, and careless actions, he loses his girlfriend, alienates his best friend and allies himself with a young man name Brandon, who is not the most likeable of characters.

But through it all, he knows he is a big disappointment to his parents. He spends most of the book trying to patch things up with his mother who is there for him no matter what happens. Throughout the story, they work together to forge a new understanding and Alex learn it is important to considerate of the feelings of others, no matter what their age or background.

Alex wanted to tell her all about his visit to the creek, but didn’t have the strength. His mother had loved their old house, and hadn’t wanted to move from it six years earlier. It had been Alex’s father who’d desired a larger more contemporary home. Alex’s news about the house’s destruction would sadden her, and she was already upset about the fate of a house she had never even lived in.

Denis has had a life, born to a French Canadian mother and Native American father who died while Denis was just a baby. He has been raised by a hard-working single mother who believes that her son’s life will be easier if Denis disregards his Native roots. Not surprisingly, Denis has grown-up lonely, wondering about the existence of other family members and ancestors. He comes to learn much about his past by the story’s end, and in doing so he gains perspective and maturity and comes to terms with his mother’s choices and even welcomes her into his “new life” filled with new possibilities.

A look of disapproval spread across Denis’s face. “Why didn’t she share all of this with me before?”

“Don’t be too hard on her,” Moe advised. “I think she had your best interest at heart. There was a time, way back even in my grandmother’s time, when we did not speak of our heritage. Many of our ancestors were forced to assimilate or be wiped out.

Eli Hampton is the hardworking, dedicated good son, who becomes the man of the house after his father has passed. He sets aside his desires and ambitions to care for his family during hard times, accepting this as his fate.  He finally gets that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pursue his dreams, but life deals him a cruel twist of fate. His poor mother is forced to sit and watch as Mother Nature has other plans for him.  Mrs. Hampton waits and worries and writes in her journal as the Blizzard of 1888 turns her life upside down and claims her son. But death does not change Eli’s character and in his own way, he continues to set things right in the afterlife.

Eli had always seen to it that his responsibilities were fulfilled before surrendering his soul to his art. But with his father’s passing in the September of that year, there had been little time for painting, unless it was the house or a barn. The last six months of his life had been occupied with duties deferred to him, now the man of the house.

I think that one of the themes of this book that I’ve tried to capture is that times may change, but the bond between mother and son, or any offspring, remains the same throughout the ages. Hopefully, we can all learn and grow just like the characters of FULL SNOW MOON do by story’s end.

Under the influences of the Full Flower Moon of May, I wish my own mother, and all the “mothering” influences that inspire and shape us, a very Happy Mother’s Day!

Thank you.

I Fall in Love with Houses…

The House that started it all.

Although my recent Novel is not dog-centric, recently I have spent a lot of time promoting FULL SNOW MOON. Last week, it began making the rounds of a  VBT (Virtual Book Tour) and I have been busy writing several guest posts for a variety of Book Blogging sites. In honor of May’s Super Flower Moon, this week I will share some of my experiences and posts from the tour. Interestingly, the plot of FULL SNOW MOON begins under the Snow Moon and comes to resolution under the Flower Moon. We will return to the dogs next week…

Full Snow Moon brings it all Home…http://bookbagsandcatnaps.com/2012/05/guest-post-full-snow-moon-brings-it-all-home-lisa-begin-kruysman/

I fall in love with houses.  Some, with their stucco facades and red tile roofs remind me of far off exotic places in which I’ve vacationed. Others like those lovingly restored turn-of-the-century Victorian-style homes with their generous wrap-around porches and porch swings remind me of simpler times. And then, there’s that rugged log-cabin with its rustic, log exterior and warm woody interior with vaulted ceilings and sky lights that offers the serenity of a place far from the maddening crowds.

For me, a house can tell a story. The old farmhouse at the center of the controversy of my novel, FULL SNOW MOON, is actually based on a real house located in my New Jersey town. It inspired my book about an old structure that is slated for demolition and the main characters, Alex, Denis and a ghost named Eli who try to save it.

At first, Alex, the story’s protagonist really doesn’t see why anyone would care so much a house which to him is just a collection of wood, nails and cement. But when he learns that his own boyhood residence is no longer standing, he realizes that a house, or home, can have emotional value, too.

I am fortunate that my parents still live in the house in which I was raised with my siblings. I enjoy my visits and each trip evokes a new memory.  My neighborhood has changed, and all our original neighbors have moved on, but from certain viewpoints, I can just sit and go back in time; it is as if time comes to a standstill.

We take many places for granted. We pass by them in the rush of our busy lives, until, one day there is an empty space – a vacant lot, where a house once stood. But, you just can’t seem to remember what that old house looked like. Erased from its foundation, and your memory, it might have stood for over 100-years, been the home to people who might have helped to build your community, served its citizens or added their own brand of color or infamy.

Several years ago, someone told me that one our town’s beautiful mansions, built in the mid-1800s, had been torn down. Some of its original stained-glass window panels were on the ground, being trampled by the work crew. That night, I went to the property with a flashlight and found two windows. One was still in good condition and I took it home.

Measuring seven feet by two, I hired someone to painstakingly restore it. It turned out that  its wood frame was Chestnut, a material no longer available in New Jersey. Today, the window hangs proudly in our dining room.

When it is time for us to move from our current home, that window will follow. It represents a piece of my hometown history. Right now, I am thinking it will look terrific hanging in that house down the road, you know, the spacious one-of-a-kind old log cabin that I have fallen in love with. It stands like a diamond in the ruff, with its warm woody interior and vaulted ceilings, waiting patiently. Something tells me it has a story to tell. Maybe it’s just waiting for someone to tell it.

Please LIKE my new Author/Artist Page on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/#!/LisaBeginKruysmanAuthorAndArtist and follow me on Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/dogweek

Help Wanted: Human Directional

“The old era of the breeder-seller ‘washing his hands’ of a sale as soon as the puppy left his place, has passed.”  Will Judy, Founder of National Dog Week, (written in 1961 after publishing Dog World Magazine for 36 years)

According to Tracy Green, the Page Administor of Make it Illegal to Sell Dogs/Puppies in Pet Stores, https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Make-it-Illegal-to-sell-DogsPuppies-in-Pet-Stores/196025447082684 there are at least 14  communities in the United States that have successfully banned these establishments: 1. Parkland Florida 2. Lake Worth Florida 3. Hallandale Beach FL 4. Irvine CA 5. Glendale CA 6. Albuquerque New Mexico (first to ban in US) 7. West Hollywood CA 8. South Lake Tahoe CA 9. Chula Vista CA 10. Laguna Beach CA 11. Dana Point CA 12. Hermosa Beach CA 13. Fountain Colorado 14. Austin Texas.

El Paso Texas has banned puppies under one year of age in pet stores and Los Angeles approved a motion to draft an ordinance to ban sales of cats, dogs and rabbits in pet stores. Although an official ordinance is not in place yet, Huntington Beach, CA, passed a first reading and they are in the process of putting a motion to draft an official ordinance. Richmond, BC, Canada has banned sales; Toronto became the second Canadian city to ban these sales. (please visit site for updates).

Recently, my township of Brick, NJ has been in the spotlight as potentially becoming the first city in the MidAtlantic to follow suit. Over the weekend, National Pets Examiner, Prenny Preston Eims, wrote on this development http://www.examiner.com/article/jersey-town-may-ban-retail-sale-of-cats-and-dogs . The ordinance has been tabled but you can help by contacting the township and voicing your support.

I thank the Fisher family and all those town officials, veterinarians and others who have worked so hard to bring this about and those who helped rescue 39 sick and neglected pups from another “Dog Store” in Brick Township. And a nod of appreciation to all those across the nation who are organizing activities to call attention to this problem.

A few years ago, when I began writing the short story, HUMAN DIRECTIONAL, I wanted to show, not tell, the story of a young man who chooses to work for a shop that sells dogs acquired through puppy mills. The story is purely ficitional, but captures the message on the callousness of this business, as well the economic angst many are experiencing (sometimes they go hand in hand, or hand in paw). Below, I present an excerpt from HUMAN DIRECTIONAL, one of the seven stories of SOMETHING’S LOST AND MUST BE FOUND. (Please see ABOUT for more book information). Thanks to all who have kept this book among the top sellers in “Dogs” on Amazon.

For the record, I am not anit-breeder. In my lifetime, I have welcomed many pets  in a variety of ways. Ten years ago, I acquired  (with love) my Portuguese water dog from a breeder who made me come to her home three times, fill out a questionnaire, be interviewed and after all that, she asked me if I still wanted one of her pups. I even got to hold my pup and meet her dog mom. This is not what goes on when people buy from a retail shop. If I am able to add another dog to my household, I will work with a shelter or a local rescue group. I happily await the day.

People say to me, why does the government have to get involved, why don’t people just stop buying at these shops?  That’s a good question. A dog is not a car or a toy or an appliance.  Encourage people to acquire dogs intelligently. It is a big commitment, think about it. Ask them to consider the welfare of all dogs like those abused and neglected on the grounds of Commercial Breeding facilities and their pups that are dumped in overcrowded shelters.

Excerpt from Human Directional

Enlightenment can be obtained in houses of worship, halls of education, on a magnificent mountain top, or sometimes in the confines of a sweaty dog suit working as a Human Directional.

You’ve seen them, how could you not? They seem to be everywhere, at the corner of busy intersections; living breathing human billboards, hoisting big signs shaped like arrows.  Some dance and jump around in staged excitement, swirling, swinging, flipping, and twirling their signs.  Others stand slumped, stuck in place, brought down by boredom, heat, exhaustion…life.

But the sign they cling to is a life raft, offering its carrier a way to earn wages on which he or she can just scrape by, all the while pointed toward the Grand Opening of some new store in a strip mall, or directing house hunters to a housing tract featuring mini-mansions listed at “Market Adjusted” prices.

Does anyone ever grow up wanting to be a Human Directional?  Perhaps, but you’ll find that these hired walking signs have surrendered hope, at a point in their lives when any job will do because they lack skills, paper work, or opportunity.  Many exist in quiet desperation looking for some personal direction, some kind of sign, while actually being one.  Most won’t get the irony, but there are exceptions, like John, a twenty-five year old college graduate with a degree in business from a prestigious university.

This formerly goal-directed young man had been laid off a year earlier and just never could find something to replace that good run of employment he’d enjoyed for three years.  For the past six months he’d done some light carpentry work, some house painting and worked as a busboy.  He’d become discouraged about the prospects of ever finding meaningful work with a good paycheck, the kind of work he felt someone of his education and background deserved.

John recalled a time not so long ago when he held little regard for those who were not so smart, so lucky, so entitled; the legions who labored on the lawns of others, waited on tables at chain restaurants, flipped greasy burgers, cared for the elderly, children, or animals… but now here he stood at a busy intersection dressed in a human-sized dog suit, luring customers to a store called PETS-4-U!

He had found his new job after answering an ad on Craig’s List, under the heading of Advertising and Promotion.  In desperate times the John’s of the world overlook a lot, including their inner compasses, when accepting a position like that of a Human Directional for a place like PETS-4-U!

PETS-4-U! had been in business at its new spot for just four months, having moved from one just a few miles down the road where it had been known as PUPS-2-GO!  Now with the Thanksgiving and holiday season near, it was time to take advantage of this new highly trafficked business location and rev up the lucrative sale of adorable pups.

“I need someone with a big bark and lots of energy,” the owner of the shop had explained to John during his interview. “If you can be available weekends, you’re hired.” he’d continued. “I’ll start you out at $15.00 an hour and if business is good, I’ll give you a raise and a holiday bonus.”

As this was the best offer John had received in a while, he accepted, what did he have to lose he’d reasoned?

“Call me Ron,” the pet shop owner had said offering John his hand.  “Too bad those good looks of yours will be wasted.”  With this, he’d presented John with his new uniform, a Golden retriever suit which John would be wearing on his beat. “Get it? You’re a member of the Working Dog Group now, a retriever of customers,” Ron said, guffawing.  “You can start tomorrow.  Just keep that big arrow pointed in this direction and move around a lot, get creative, act like a dog, chase cars, offer your paw.  Kids love it!”

John reported to his corner the next morning dressed in a dog suit the color of the amber-hued lagers he used to pound down at the upscale bars he’d frequented in days of yore.  He would have to get used to the stifling sensation that came with wearing a big dog head with slits for eyes, grateful it allowed him to remain anonymous.

The first hour passed without incident, but then it started.  (End of Excerpt).

I hope you were engaged enough to invest in a download (only .99 on Amazon). Please remember, a portion of all book sales is designated to some special causes for our Companion Animals, especially those involving Spay and Neuter initiatives.

I also hope that you do can do your part to replicate what those in the above-mentioned communities (and hopefully, soon, Brick Township) have been able to do. Please contact the town officials in Brick and let them know how you feel. Please feel free to quote any material obtained from my blog posts. council@twp.brick.nj.us

Bocker the Labradoodle to Help Promote National Dog Week!

“So good you never knew that he was there

Until you came upon him in a nook

Beside the small gray woman as she searched

The well-known shelves for some yet unread book”

Excerpt from The Dog in the Library – attributed to Ethel King

In 1949 Will Judy declared (in capital letters) “EVERY BOY AND GIRL SHOULD GROW UP WITH A DOG AS A TEACHER.”

Following in the next paragraph, he restated the underlying message  of all the National Dog Weeks he had organized and promoted, “We do not necessarily want more or better dogs; we want better dog owners.”

Will Judy clealy believed that through the care of dogs, and pets in general, children developed strong characters and learned the importance of kindness.

In that spirit, we are happy to announce that Bocker the Labradoodle will serve as “Barksperson” for the celebration of National Dog Week leading up to and during the week of September 25^th . In doing so, Bocker will help to promote this year’s theme of  “Every Dog a Teacher.”

Bocker is no stranger to these posts and National Dog Week. His charitable work, television and movie accomplishments and his book CHASING BOCKER’s TALE have all happily graced the walls of this blog during the past couple of years.

And remember, learning isn’t just for the young and it doesn’t only occur in academic settings or have to always be concerned with books and classrooms. We all can learn about caring and kindness through the care of pets wherever the gentle touch of a paw or a loving gaze of a well-trained (and in most cases certified) animal is allowed.

We hope you will start thinking of special ways that canines can be engaged in the process of learning during National Dog Week and beyond. Have your local library host a Read to the Dogs Event, approach your local book store to schedule readings by authors of dog books and create a display dedicated to great dog books. Maybe dogs can participate in reading programs in overlooked locations such as Assisted Living Facilities, Convalescent Homes and Hospitals. Some Therapy Dogs have served as models in art rooms, others have inspired essays in Literacy lesson plans.  I am sure you can think of more ways to connect canines with education.

With the help of his mom, Bocker recently answered a few questions about his new role in the National Dog Week movement.

Bocker, how do you feel about being the official Dog Barksperson for National Dog Week?
Honored to say the least! This is a very important week and what is done during National Dog Week can help us all learn and have a better understanding of the many different things in life that create such a special bond between animals and their humans. It’s main focus of teaching responsible pet ownership, primarily the importance of spay and neuter, is key.

What do you think of this year’s theme, “Every Dog a Teacher?”  Love it! We are teachers. Unconditional love, being so attuned to the feelings of those around us, making people smile and happy and relax a bit. Doesn’t every human want to learn these things?

What kinds of fun and meaningful activities would you like to see happen during NDW this September? Being a Tail Wagging Tutor, I love to read with children. I try to teach them how important reading is and that “Reading Is Fun!” Would be fun to read my book to them, too!

Bocker has also been nominated for the Hero Dog Award sponsored by the American Humane Association. You can vote for Bocker by visiting http://www.herodogawards.org/vote/?nominee=94854978

This year, National Dog Week is celebrating its 84^th observance, making it a time honored tradition. As I complete my book dedicated to Captain Will Judy, the man who founded NDW in 1928 (McFarland 2013), I will continue to share how these seven days in September have shaped the way millions of Americans have thought and felt about their dogs through the decades.

Remember to LIKE our page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/National-Dog-Week/218596591491974 to keep up with all the barking!

To learn more about the work of Bocker the Labradoodle, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/#!/bocker

https://www.facebook.com/#!/ChasingBockersTale

Thank you Bocker, we are all looking forward to some inspiring fun!

From Homeless in Homestead, to Model in Manhattan: The True Story of Railan Russo.

Thanks to blogger/author Kevin Middleton for this great interview last week. We talked about FULL SNOW MOON and SOMETHING’S LOST AND MUST BE FOUND. I hear his wife is a true lover of dogs, so hopefully they will become friends of National Dog Week! http://thebattleofthegatehouse.webs.com/apps/blog/show/13466053-author-interview-with-lisa-begin-kruysman

Rose Russo is a friend and a true advocate for man’s best friend. If her name sounds familiar, it is because she is very active among the New York City circle of animal advocates. A former NYPD Detective, Rose’s life was changed forever by the events of 9/11. Rose now dedicates her life to helping dogs as a trainer, groomer, foster and rescuer. To read more please see BLOG ARCHIVES of August 26,2010.

Recently, Rose told me the story of a little terrier she rescued while staying in Homestead, Florida. Rose tells it so well, I am just going to let her do all the talking!

BLOG NOTES: I just want to say a quick congratulations to Sean Martin and his Kids Adopt a Shelter Spring Drive. Hopefully we can provide feedback soon. I also want to point out that Project Pets Spay, Neuter, Love has a new website http://spayneuterlove.org/ . Every once in awhile, I will hit their donate button and donate a dollar or two. Just imagine how much money could be raised for the Spay and Neuter of more dogs and cats if everyone did the same.

Now for the story of Railan Russo as told by Rose Russo~

On Friday, January 20th, at approximately 6:30 PM, we packed the Ford Explorer, punched an address into the GPS and headed to the Sunshine State. I took the wheel and Penny-Lane and Lily-Pads were onboard for the drive. Originally, we had planned to leave early Saturday morning, but Mother Nature planned otherwise. With a pending storm bearing down on the North East, Saturday morning, we skipped the good night rest and left Friday night. Of to Florida we went. Even with the few stretches of bad weather we continued straight through only making a few stops to nap and freshen up.

I had never been to Homestead, Florida; I actually never even knew it existed. Because we had to get back to New York for Westminster our time was limited. We were meeting Designer Kiki Hamann for a Pre-Westminster dress fitting. Kiki Hamann is one of the premier designers for the event. The ride to Kiki’s home was astonishing, the cows, the farms and all the stray dogs. Once I arrived at Kiki’s home I learned that Homestead was a wonderfully close community that is unfortunately burdened with the reputation of being a place to abandon dogs. Many individuals end up caring for seven, eight and more dogs. Kiki herself has 8 dogs, most she has rescued. I remember growing up in Brooklyn and seeing dogs walking in packs, but we are in the 21st century I thought those days were long gone. I couldn’t believe my eyes, and of course my heart went out to them.

At Kiki’s home, I was greeted not only by Hamann’s 8 dogs but by one little guy lurking near the fence. I think he was checking us out. The next morning, while the Hamanns had to run some errands, I stayed behind. Well back came our little visitor,, and it seemed as if he wanted to come over and play but being cautious he kept his distance. As he saw me sitting in the field, playing and rolling around the grass with my dogs, he became more curious. He was so adorable looking, and I knew behind all that smell and crusted matted hair, he had a beautiful coat.

When the Hamanns came home, the little guy had been groomed and looked like a brand new dog. Kiki couldn’t believe her eyes, she told me she had been trying for months to get close to him and pet him but he kept his guard. I took the task of grooming many stays that day and It was priceless watching their faces during and after being groomed and pampered. I would do it again and again, because every fur baby needs to be groomed and pampered once in their lifetime.

As my visit grew longer, he began to stay with. I would go to sleep and wake and he would be there, I would go out and come back and he would come looking for us….OMG what to do? As my departing date was getting near I went through the neighborhood looking to see if he belonged to someone. No one looked for him, asked for him….nothing. I wasn’t looking for another fur baby, but I guess he was looking for a family.

As I was packing the truck the night before he stayed as if he knew what was going on. The very next morning the girls and I got onto the truck. As he watched me with those little green eyes of his, I opened the door and asked him if he wanted to come – He jumped right in the front seat and didn’t care one bit, all he cared was that he had found a family, finally a place to call home.

I always think people meet for a reason, well the same applies to animals. We never know why paths cross just that it is something meant to be. But I tell you this little dog came to me at a moment I wasn’t feeling well, I was stressed with family matters and he just let me care for him.

As the girls and I were driving back, I realized that he needed a name. Little-Man was a thought but this didn’t fit for someone who is small, feisty, sweet, caring and loving soul. He came from a farm country place so I wanted to give a name that would fit him, I threw some names out there but the one he liked was “RAILAN” Railan Russo. We drove twenty-two straight hours and he did well on the return trip. Most importantly the girls were good with him and he was a gentleman with the girls.

February 10th arrived quickly and we arrived at the Pre-Westminster fashion show in New York City, organized by Ada Nieves. Penny-Lane and Lily-Pads were modeling Kiki Hamann’s designs. Now Railan, a new member of the family got into the act. Kiki Hamann gave him a black and white blinged harness, but it wasn’t just a harness, it looked like a tuxedo shirt and amazingly it matched the girls beautiful venetian-styled gowns. For Railan’s first exposure to our crazy life, he did very well. Railan has become very good around people and other fur babies. Penny-Lane and Lily-Pads have shown him how to interact and be calm around other fur babies. He still looks for me and wants to be around me almost like a security blanket. I have had people ask me if I am looking to place him. I tell people he is not ready yet, for now he is a Little Russo.

Railan is a long hair silk terrier, approximately between 1 and 2 years of age, with a great personality. He learns quickly and wants to please. He is affectionate and loves to hang and sunbathe with Penny-Lane and Lily-Pads. He would make a great addition to any family and has brought some new life to ours.

Thank you Rose for this beautiful story. Your life-story and work on behalf of our dogs epitomizes the true mission of National Dog Week!

Kids Adopt a Shelter and a Great Attitude!

“But the dog is also an excellent teacher for children in that he aids in their character building.”

Will Judy, Founder of National Dog Week

HAPPY SPRING! TODAY IS THE DAY FOR THE NATION-WIDE KIDS ADOPT A SHELTER SPRING DRIVE! FOLLOW LINKS BELOW TO PARTICIPATE. IF YOU CAN’T HELP TODAY, YOUR SUPPLIES ARE ALWAYS NEEDED.

For me, nothing is more inspiring than images and words that highlight the bond between children and their pets.

As many already know, this blog was started as a place where I could build interest in something I called the National Dog Week Project and the book I am writing about its Founder, Will Judy.  Although Judy was an accomplished lawyer and publisher, later in life he began to grapple with the more spiritual side of pet ownership (ownership was the word of the day in his time), focusing primarily on the canine-human bond.  Clearly, his early training in the ministry was influencing his writing and approach.

He spoke to the heart of all dog-lovers; men, women and children, firmly believing that through the act of caring for pets, children became more compassionate and responsible.  He viewed pet ownership as a young person’s training for parenthood in many ways.

I would also add volunteerism. Given the chance and encouragement, most kids are only too eager to donate their time and energy to a cause they care about.  Some are coached by caring parents and others just seem to come to it naturally.  Such was the case with a young man named Sean Martin who came to my attention through his Facebook Page and mission, Kids Adopt a Shelter.

I contacted Sean and his mom, Melanie, and told them about National Dog Week and how Sean’s work epitomizes its spirit.  Sean is an eleven- year old actor with his most recent role in the “dog-biz” centering  on his involvement with his Kids Adopt a Shelter Cause launched on Facebook.

Sean’s mission began when he and his friends gathered up a lot of “stuff” on the occasion of his parent’s Halloween Party.  Not happy with his results, Sean resolved to scare up “tons of stuff for Christmas,” that he would donate to the Little Shelter in Huntington, New York.

As Sean recalls, “I pleaded with family and friends and put signs up all over my neighborhood to raise awareness for my mission.”

His efforts were well rewarded. On December 23, 2011, Sean and his parents loaded their Jeep and delivered over $1,000 in donations.  But this ambitious kid with a big heart did not stop here. Sean decided he would get other kids just like him all over the nation to join him in his efforts…and Kids Adopt a Shelter was born! Sean set out to see that every state of the nation was represented, with the hopes that in the future he would have a rep in each town in each state.

With 2,584 Likes currently on their page, I think that he and fellow page administrators, Zac Posner are on the right track. Right now Sean and Zac are busy working on their Kids Adopt a Shelter SPRING 2012 DRIVE, an event scheduled for Tuesday, March 20 from 9:00am to 8:00pm. In some cases, they will even try to pick up your donations on your doorstep.

Similar to the folks at Covers for Critters, another group I have written about, Sean is encouraging all participants to gather up all kind of linens and bedding materials, and also any pet-related items, new or gently used to donate to shelters in need.  To find out more, please visit the Event page and contact Sean directly. https://www.facebook.com/KidsAdoptaShelter?ref=ts

On his Facebook page for this cause there is a list of all the supplies that are needed with the names of all states represented to-date. A new feature also spotlights an adoptable cat and dog of the week.  I hope you and your kids of course, check out Sean’s blog site and help with donations and some time, too!  http://kidsadoptashelter.blogspot.com/

To learn more about Sean’s other roles in the acting community: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4318570/

I like the fact that there is an emphasis on Spay and Neuter contained in the mission of Kids Adopt a Shelter.  On that note, I also encourage you to check out Project Pets – Spay, Neuter, Love’s  new website with its own focus on young people. http://spayneuterlove.org/education.html

In a week or so, we will be announcing some exciting National Dog Week news that has a whole lot to do with kids.  Stay tuned and please LIKE our NDW Community Page https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/National-Dog-Week/218596591491974

This ‘aint your Snookie’s Jersey Shore….

UPDATE  (March 9): Here is an update regarding the status of puppy retail shops in Brick, New Jersey (and perhaps beyond) http://www.meetup.com/FAUNNJ/events/55574322/ See February 9 post.

My dog-centric short story collection, SOMETHING’S LOST AND MUST BE FOUND has been out for nine months now, and I am happy to report there is still a lot of wag left in its tail! Now with 32 Five-star reviews, it has been offered in a soft cover version since December and continues to be listed among the top fifty books in the category of “Dogs” in the Kindle Store on Amazon.  In February, I also enjoyed my first author’s appearance at Booketowne in Manasquan, NJ, something not too common for self-published authors. http://www.amazon.com/Somethings-Lost-Must-Found-ebook/dp/B0051ZMYG2/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2

In the past two year, many exciting things have happened in the writing department. I started blogging, acquired a Literary Agent and as of this week, saw the publication of my second work of fiction when my Young Adult Novel, FULL SNOW MOON was released by Bradley Publishing. Located in Groton, CT, Bradley is made up of the husband and wife team of Zeb and Jennifer Bradley. http://www.bradleypublishings.com/

I thank BP for taking a chance on a good story that is quiet and quirky while being ABOUT something.  It doesn’t feature those ever-popular vampires, werewolves or even wizards, but there is a nice paranormal theme that is central to the story. But it does offer so much more. Although FULL SNOW MOON is classified as a book for Young Adults, it is a story that can be appreciated by any age group.  If you live in New Jersey, for instance, you will appreciate the fact that it depicts the Jersey Shore region far differently than MTV’s Jersey Shore “Reality” TV show.  If you are a fan of obscure tales of American History, love Storm of the Century stories or a great testament to the power of friendship, then you will take something away after reading this book.

As we promote FULL SNOW MOON, I have just completed a second draft of a manuscript for a fascinating Non-Fiction project that I am developing with my agent.  This is a story I have been working on for years with the help of a family member of one of the story’s major players.

And let’s not forget the book to which I dedicate this blog and a portion of each day.  The new working title for Every Dog has its Week is now The Legacy of William Lewis Judy and his National Dog Week Movement. Although it remains primarily about dogs, Will Judy was a prolific writer who explored many topics on human nature, too, equally concerned about the welfare of the spiritual beings on both ends of the leash. This book will be released by McFarland & Company in 2013.

I hope you can join me on Sunday, March 11th at an event that we have created on Facebook called FULL SNOW MOON SNOW-DOWN, which will be a virtual book party.  You will be able to see it in progress if you stop by my Facebook page between 5:00 and 8:00pm that evening. Pour yourself a hot beverage of choice and settle in for some fun of historic proportions on the anniversary of the diabolical Blizzard of 1888!

You can purchase FULL SNOW MOON at:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/full-snow-moon-lisa-begin-kruysman/1109151032?ean=2940014003957&itm=1&usri=full+snow+moon

and

http://www.amazon.com/Full-Snow-Moon-ebook/dp/B007DXMYG0/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1330695964&sr=1-1

Remember, if you like what you read, always help an author by reviewing their work on the sales pages of Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  I thank all who have.

My Next blog post will bring it back to the dogs with a feature about Sean Posner and a special event he is organizing for Kids Adopt a Shelter.

“Best in Woe?”

“Try to be the god on earth, the all-powerful and all-mighty your dog thinks you are. Never let him learn his mistake.”

Will Judy, Founder of the National Dog Week Movement

On Valentine’s Day last week, two very different scenarios in the Dog World played out on a local and national level.

While a special Hearing regarding “Puppies Galore,” took place in Brick Township, NJ, some of the nation’s’ Top Dogs, representing the finest of their breeds and groups, pranced at Madison Square Garden in New York City, just over an hour’s drive from Brick, vying for the title of Best-In-Show.

At the former, the Township Council responded to multi counts of animal abuse leveled at the owners of the recently closed, “Puppies Galore,” Nat Sladkin and Maria DeSantis. (please see previous post for details). Much to the satisfaction of those who had brought about the closing and those attending the hearing, the shop’s business license was permanently revoked and it was announced that the Council would now seriously consider the banning of all retail pet shops in Brick Township, like an establishment called, “Puppies,” located just miles from the Sladkin/DeSantis operation.

According to many, you didn’t have to be a health inspector or an officer of the law to know something was amiss at, “Puppies Galore.” Some said it literally didn’t smell right, and when a puppy was seen roaming freely in the store after business hours, a well-orchestrated investigation brought about its ultimate closing. I’ve had people say to me, “At least Puppies (the other shop) is clean and pleasant.” But this is merely a sanitized facade that hides the very dirty and unpleasant behind-the-scenes business of dog retailing at the commercial level.

This small battle won, over at Madison Square Garden, another one was heating up as the AKC (American Kennel Club) was dropping its sponsor, Pedigree, and their Shelter Dog Campaign for this year’s Westminster event, saying it wanted to focus on the more uplifting topic of pure-bred dogs. http://www.examiner.com/animal-welfare-in-cleveland/dogs-without-tiaras

On many levels, the AKC has done a lot of good for dogs for several generations. It educates humans about the purposes for which dogs have been bred, which in turn can create better canine-human bonds, it creates jobs and promotes a dog-centric community of like-minded individuals. I personally know people who are actively involved in breeding and showing dogs as well as covering AKC events, from the big show at The Garden, to helping to promote the role of Service Dogs.  Some of them do a lot of good work on the behalf of homeless dogs, too. But the AKC needs to do more on behalf of ALL dogs to be viewed as a truly dog-positive institution or risk losing the respect of many dog-loving Americans. I fear much damage has been done.

Many purebred pups, pumped out by greedy uncaring Commercial Breeders come with AKC papers.  Why? Because all the AKC requires of these breeders is the stipulation that the parent’s of their pups are Purebreds.  According to Janice Fisher, an organizer of Peaceful Protests outside dog retail shops, each time these transactions take place, the AKC makes a profit.  You don’t need a calculator to see that huge sums of money can be made.

American puppy shops are now filled with registered purebreds, many that will end up in shelters because of health and temperament issues and because it is just so darn easy to plunk down one’s money  to get the dog you want, when you want, without much thought.  Even those who may not like the Pedigree dog food brand, have to admire the corporation’s effort to encourage adoption in their Westminster Ad Campaigns, but until the AKC helps to curb the flood of these sick and neglected pups, it is a vicious cycle. Think about it.

I am not against hardworking and devoted breeders. Although my pets have come to me in many different ways, I am currently the proud Human to a Portuguese water dog who was brought into this world by one such individual. Hooper is ten, but looks like she is three, and has actually been fed Pedigree for a number of years. Although I could have, I never got around to officially registering her with the AKC, it really wasn’t important to me. I hope to be able to adopt another dog when the time is right.

I think we’ve made some great strides in the housing of homeless Companion Animals, but most agree we need shelter reform, if not a revolution to truly make things better for them. In our shaky economy, there are many heartless scammers turning the adoption process into a money-making business, too, in some areas of the nation. (More on that in a later post). Puppy Mill awarenss and is an area where the AKC can help by using its clout to become a positive force.

There was a final twist in the Westminster saga. After winning his title of Best-In-Show, Malachy the Pekingese was told that he could not have the longstanding traditional winner’s dinner at Sardi’s Restaurant due to a ruling of the NCY Health Department. It looked like Malachy would have to settle for dare we say a bowl of Pedigree, until the ruling was reversed by Mayor Bloomberg.  Malachy had his day and gourmet meal after all.

But I would love to think, that if this Top Dog could talk, he might just ask his humans, and the Sardi’s staff, to wrap up a few million meals to go to share with his friends that, well, just aren’t such lucky dogs.

I know this is a complex issue, so your comments and questions are welcome.  For more reading: http://terriermandotcom.blogspot.com/2008/02/akc-loves-puppy-mills-and-naive.html