Physical Traits

Size & Weight: Cotons typically stand between 10-12 inches tall, making them small dogs. They should weigh between 12-15 pounds. Male Cotons are typically larger than females.

Coat & Color: The Coton’s coat is their most distinctive characteristic, and is where their name derives from. They have medium to long, flowing coats that are actually hair, rather than fur, that is very soft and fluffy, like cotton. Cotons can be white (sometimes with tan markings), white and black, or tricolored.

Life Expectancy: 14-16 years

Temperament

Cotons are happy dogs that are full of energy, with witty, lighthearted personalities. They are known for their expressive “joie de vivre” faces, which always seem to be smiling. Highly intelligent dogs, they love learning new commands and tricks. Cotons are not always clowns though—they also have a serious side, and possess a striking sensitivity and awareness to those around them, often expressing this with unique vocalizations. They develop strong attachments to their home and family, making them surprisingly great watchdogs. Because they get along with everyone, human or animal, Cotons make great family pets.

Something to Bark About: Cotons are full of tricks and entertaining behaviors—one of their trademark traits is to jump and walk on their hind legs. Perhaps they learned this from the court jesters during their time with the Madagascan royals?

Wags:

• Because they have hair instead of fur, Cotons have little to no shedding and are considered hypoallergenic.
• Cotons do well with apartment living, as they are fairly active indoors.
• Cotons love people and other animals, and do well when meeting new people.

Yelps:

• Grooming is a daily task when it comes to Cotons. Their hair mats easily, and needs to be carefully brushed every day.
• Cotons can be a little stubborn without proper training and leadership.
• Because Cotons are still a fairly rare breed, it’s unlikely that you will find one through a rescue organization or shelter. Cotons can be expensive when purchased from a breeder, reaching up to $3000 per dog.

Want to welcome a jovial Coton de Tulear into your home? Try finding one at one of your local small dog rescue groups at RightPet.com.

Answering that community appetite for information is Sarasota Pet Magazine, covering local news for pet lovers. Published by Candace Botha, the magazine is now in its sixth year of distribution.

A long-time supporter of the animal shelter and rescue communities, Ms. Botha had an idea this year to support individuals with needy pets and shelters with specific needs in Sarasota and Manatee counties through a new crowd-funding platform: The Sarasota Pet Project.

Candace Botha, Publisher Sarasota Pet Magazine

Crowd-funding calls on interested parties and community members to chip in amounts as small as five dollars. The effect is to raise major dollars from multiple donors – “the crowd.” By spreading the need across a crowd, more people are able to contribute more frequently.

Just three weeks after launch, more than $1,100 dollars have been raised for pets and people in need through The Sarasota Pet Project. Four projects are now seeking funding online:

• Fairy Tail Endings, Inc., a local nonprofit that keeps families and pets together by helping to cover medical expenses, is trying to raise $550 to assist pets suffering from debilitating pain from orthopedic injuries. Surgery for these injuries usually costs between $2,000 and $3,000, which many local families do not have. By helping to fund these procedures, Fairy Tail Endings, Inc., saves the lives of pets that may otherwise be euthanized.
• Brina, the 4-year-old service dog that is the faithful companion of Danni, a 17-year old Bradenton teen with a serious spinal condition, required two surgeries after an obstruction was found in her intestines and she developed sepsis. Danni’s mom, a single mother and Army veteran, is faced with escalating veterinary bills that were needed to save Brina’s life. An additional $720 is needed to reach the goal to help pay the veterinary bills.
• Mary Lupi of Safe Haven Animal Rescue of Florida rescued Booty, an 8-year-old dog that is blind. An exam is needed to determine if the dog, whom Mary calls “the sweetest Chihuahua God ever put on this Earth,” is a candidate for cataract surgery that could restore his sight. The project goal is only $165.00 to cover the cost of the initial exam.
• Galy, an adorable, 1-year-old Chihuahua owned by Kim Delgado of Sarasota, has a life-threatening liver shunt and a bladder stone. Surgery is required to repair the shunt, remove the stone and, at the same time, spay the pup. The surgery is very expensive, but Kim has scheduled a date. She is hoping to raise $660 that will help pay for the surgery that will save the life of her dog.

If you’d like to “join the crowd” and help support one or more of these financial needs, or to learn more about The Sarasota Pet Project, just click here. If you’d like to submit a project for funding, there is an easy-to-fill-out form online at www.SarasotaPet.com on “The Sarasota Pet Project” page. Or you can send an e-mail directly to Ms. Botha at Publisher@SarasotaPet.com.

Harley here is a handsome brown/black Black Mouth Cur Mix. He’s around 5 years old and has been at the shelter since mid-April. This neutered boy is housebroken and good with other dogs. Harley is playful and walks well on a leash.

He does know a few basic obedience commands including sit and he’s continuing to learn his doggie manners. Harley’s favorite thing to do is to lay in the sun and catch some rays.

Next up we have Drako here. He is a white American Pitbull Terrier. He is also neutered and is around 8 months old. This cute soon-to-be lap dog has been patiently awaiting his forever home at the shelter since the end of April.

Drako is pretty shy until he gets to know you. He is great with other dogs, fully vetted and he is housebroken. Our volunteers are working with him on his leash and obedience training. They say he’s doing quite well for a pup and would make the perfect pup for any home.

For more information about Harley or Drako contact Sarasota County Animal Services by calling 941-861-9523 or visit their facility located at 8451 Bee Ridge Rd.

 This week’s pets are brought to you by ACE Pet Resort. ACE Pet Resort is an award-winning pet care facility with a knowledgeable and caring team situated on nine beautiful acres for the discerning pet that craves personalized care and individual attention.

Off Leash dog parks in Sarasota County are called Paw Parks and are dotted throughout the county.

Arlington, Lakeview, and 17^th Street and Paw Parks are in Sarasota and Woodmere and Brohard Paw Parks are in Venice.   This map highlights the parks and their locations.

Each Paw Park has a separate fenced in area for large and small dogs, water fountains for dogs, waste disposal bags & trash cans, and some type of seating.   Hours of operation are from sunrise to sunset. Free parking is available.  Before going to a dog park, please be sure you are following county ordinances, know your dog park etiquette, and be prepared to have a great time!

The Paw Parks are subject to Sarasota County Code which requires the following:

• All dogs must be licensed and have current vaccinations. Rabies is required every 3 years in Sarasota County

• ·Dog owners are required to pick up excrement and dispose of it properly

• Do not allow your dog to be a public nuisance (barking, aggression, poor behavior)

Practicing good dog park etiquette will help ensure a safe outing – this video highlights some basics. s very important and please review before taking your dog out for some off leash play. The more you know ahead of time, the more likely your visit will be a positive experience.

The dog parks operate mostly on an honor system – you are trusting that other owners will follow the rules — but never leave your dog’s safety to chance. Stay in close proximity and keep your eyes on your dog. Only bring a well socialized, friendly dog and should be under your voice control. Keep your leash with you at all times. Do not bring treats or favorite toys with you. Learn common dog behavior so you can carefully intervene if necessary.

Here are some unique details about each Paw Park:

17^th Street Paw Park –   4570 17^th Street, Sarasota (between Honore and Beneva

• ·       Very large area for both small and large dogs

• ·       Separate double-gated entries

• ·       Agility equipment on large dog side – only dog park with equipment

• ·       Mostly sunny areas, good grass, very few trees, but some shade

• ·       Busy, often visited park

• ·       Port-a-potties in close proximity to the park

Arlington – 2650 Waldemere Street, Sarasota

• ·       A two minute walk from parking lot to dog park; not good signage

• ·      Not much area for small dog side but baseball field size for large dogs

• ·       Limited seating – one bench on small dog side

• ·       Close to Arlington Park for a nice walk with the dog on leash

• ·       Difficult to find any restrooms nearby

• ·       Gate between small and large dog section easily breached by small dog

Lakeview -7150 Lago Street, Sarasota

• ·       Good sized park for both large and small dogs

• ·       Lots and lots of shade on both sides

• ·       Plenty of seating

• ·       Not very busy on small dog side; large dog side variable

• ·       Common entrance for both small/large dogs

• ·       Restrooms a short walk down the street

Woodmere – 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd, Venice

• ·       Short, scenic walk over a small bridge to get to the dog parks

• ·       Good sized for both small and large dogs

• ·       Shady and sunny areas

• ·       Many benches and picnic tables

• ·     Gate from large to small dog with open area in need of repair

• ·       Beautiful setting with dense trees around the perimeter

• ·       One spot in small dog section where a dog could be cornered by other dogs

Brohard – 6000 Harbor Drive South, Venice

• ·       Small fenced in” time out” area for misbehaving dogs

• ·       Dog shower station on large dog side to clean after hanging out at the beach

• ·       Short walk to the dedicated dog beach – no size limits at the beach

• ·       Great beach for dogs to run, hang out, and go in the water – only dog beach in Sarasota

• ·       Large, clean full bathrooms near the park

• ·       Both large and small sides have sunny and shady areas, moderate sized parks

The Sarasota Paw Park rules are on signs at each park but often are only visible if inside the large dog section.  More information can be found on the Sarasota County Parks site here.

Izzy is a beautiful tan Pitbull Terrier. This spayed girl is around a year old and has been at the shelter since March. Izzy has piercing yellow eyes which, when combined with her coloring, looks scary but she’s actually a pretty awesome dog!

She gets along well with other dogs and would love a playmate if you have another dog in your home. Izzy minds her manners as she is housebroken and walks well on a leash Her favorite pastime? She loves to lay in her swimming pool and likes to play with her ball!

Next up is handsome mister Cooper. He’s a white/brown brindle Bulldog mix. This neutered boy is around a year old and he’s been patiently waiting at the shelter since March as well.

Cooper is housebroken and good with other dogs. The volunteer staff at SCAS are working with him on his basic training commands. Overall, he is a great dog with a great personality who simply loves to SMILE!

For more information about Izzy or Cooper, please contact the Sarasota County Animal Services by calling 941-861-9523 or visit their shelter facility at 8451 Bee Ridge Rd.

This week’s pets are brought to you by ACE Pet Resort. ACE Pet Resort is an award-winning pet care facility with a knowledgeable and caring team situated on nine beautiful acres for the discerning pet that craves personalized care and individual attention.

Pukka’s Promise, The Quest for Longer-Lived Dogs” by Ted Kerasote

                  In the age of Kindles and iPads, I much prefer the feel and comfort of a real book in my hands. “Pukka’s Promise” is intriguing and thought provoking, and the pages turn quickly. I would highly recommend this book for anyone who loves a dog and wants to know more about genetics, nutrition, veterinary care, and has the stomach to read about some hidden awful truths. The author has forever changed me and how I will care for my dog, Rico, and for that, I am grateful.

                  Within the first three pages, I laughed and I cried; I was hooked.  As the author recounted the last few weeks with his beloved dog, Merle, I could not help but identify with the love and connection he felt for his canine companion. His thoughts as he met a young couple with their new puppy, simply stated, “In fourteen years, perhaps sooner, certainly not much longer, he will break your heart. Your entire life from now until then will be colored by him: his woofs, his wags, his smells….”  I choked up as I imagined how traumatic it will be when the day comes I will have to let my dog pass on. But, herein lies the greatness of this book, he dedicated years of research to find strategies to help his next dog live a happy and healthier, and hopefully LONGER life. You can too, for at any age, we have the power to improve the quality and quantity of life for our four legged family members.

The author tackles topics that I didn’t even realize could be controversial such as our common spay and neuter policy and routine vaccinations. Is it all healthy for our dogs? Does it really solve the overpopulation problem? Is there a better way? Reading this book, I realized how passive I’ve been with Rico’s health. I’m a physician, I fully evaluate clinical information before making a decision regarding my patients, but not with my dog initially; I simply did what my vet told me to do without even a question of consequences. I didn’t even research after Rico had a vaccine reaction. He was only 10 weeks old and got a vaccine that resulted in significant pain and swelling. I felt awful, those sad eyes looking at me, “Why did you do that??” The author provides great information to help us make informed decisions and offers new, innovative approaches to population control and vaccine schedules. He was balanced in his approach and provided valuable health related information.

        Ted also digs into the entire process of how much of our commercial dog food is made, and I learned about “rendering”, a practice to extract valuable protein from millions of dead animals – abandoned pets and animals not safe for human consumption. He describes the process of euthanasia for unwanted dogs and cats lost in our best intentioned shelter system. In addition, how breeding for appearance has surpassed function or health. These are the horrible facts people do not want to know, do not want to face, but until we do, we can’t change the system. Education, truth, and a thoughtful dialogue is where it has to start.

                  Thankfully, more time is spent on the positive and creative ways we can improve our dog’s health, and advocating to make real nutrient rich food in our own kitchen. He helps us understand the mental and emotional needs of dogs, and how their health is directed affected by their stress level.  Advocating safe off leash time to let the dog run, discover his world, and make some independent decisions.

                  Throughout the book, Ted entertains with the story of his new dog, Pukka. He describes how their bond was created and then strengthened on a daily basis. He is immensely dedicated to Pukka, and very much in love, even though after Merle died, he thought he may not be able share his life with a new dog. He gives me hope that the old saying it not true, “You only get ONE good dog in your life”.  That’s because we often don’t want to go through the pain of loss again, and not because there is only one true dog love for us. There are many!!!! And we can enjoy a healthier and longer life with each of them.

                  Be ready to dig into this book, and stick with it. I think you’ll find it well worth it. I’m reminded of a quote of a life shared with a dog – “Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole,” by Roger Caras, an American wildlife photographer, writer, and wildlife preservationist.

If you’d like to reach me, please contact me by email:  SNielsen2202@gmail.com, if you’d like to stay in touch with Rico – you’ll find him on Facebook!

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Bruno here is a 3 year old neutered male. As you can see, he is a white & brown American Bulldog mix. He’s been hanging out at the shelter since September of last year and is patiently awaiting the love of his life. Bruno enjoys playing games and has come quite a long way with his leash training.

Bruno doesn’t care too much for toys, as he’d rather hang out around the house. He’s housebroken and knows some basic obedience commands. Bruno has a great temperament and gets along with most other dogs. He’s got a BIG bark too, but he’s really just a gentle giant.

Next up we have Snarf! Snarf is a neutered brindle & white American Bulldog mix. He is around a year old and has been at the shelter since October of last year. He knows sit and is also working on his basic obedience commands and manners.

Snarf would be ideal for someone who wants an active puppy by their side. He’s always ready to go, no matter where he is! Overall, Snarf is just a big goofball looking for an adventure.

For more information on Bruno or Snarf, call the Sarasota County Animal Services adoptions desk at 941-861-9523 or stop by the shelter to visit them in person at 8451 Bee Ridge Rd.

Beyond the baby gate and cabinet safety latches, providing the best food and giving all of your love – you should also be prepared for a possible medical emergency with your dog.   Here’s a guide to some symptoms that indicate an immediate trip to the Emergency Room.

• ·      If your pet is experiencing difficulty with or no breathing/no heartbeat.  On the way to the emergency clinic, you can apply rapid pressure on the chest right behind the elbow to help massage the heart if it is not beating.  Pressure on the chest of a non-breathing pet will help move air, and you can do mouth-to-mouth resuscitation with your pet.

• ·      Repeated vomiting or retching.  This could result from a number of things, including swallowing a toxin.  Repeated attempts to vomit without result could be from a foreign body blockage in the stomach or intestines or GDV, a common—and life threatening–condition known as bloat, where a dog’s stomach becomes twisted.

• ·      Inability to urinate or defecate.  Inappropriate urination may be caused by variety of conditions such as bladder stones to serious urinary tract infections or even kidney failure.  Inability to defecate could be from a blockage, GDV or tumor.

• ·      Distended and/or painful abdomen.  This can be from GDV or from peritonitis and needs to be evaluated by a veterinarian.
  

• ·      Seizures or any collapse.  Dogs that never have had a seizure before or those whose seizure lasts more than 1 or 2 minutes should be seen with no delays.  You can push on the nose tip just above the lip, but be careful not to reach too near the dog’s mouth to avoid being bitten.  Talk to your pet, and try to keep her awake and conscio

• ·      Choking/gagging.  Keep your pet as quiet as possible.  If you are unable to remove the object, or your dog collapses, head to the ER immediately.  You can try using quick, firm pressure on the chest to push the object out.  For smaller pets, hang them upside down from their back legs and firmly tap their chest to help the object drop out.

• ·     Paralysis or inability to walk.  This could be the result of a stroke or ruptured spinal disc needing surgical correction.  If so, the longer you wait, the greater the chance the paralysis will be permanent

• ·      Bloody diarrhea.  Lower gastrointestinal tract bleeding from a foreign object or other cause and hemorrhagic gastroenteritis are two of the more serious causes of bloody diarrhea and can be life-threatening.  Blood in the stool is not a wait-and-see situation.

• ·      Certainly, if your dog is vocalizing pain by whining or yelping, it is time to get help.  Or, he may be lethargic and not eatingor drinking.  These are all signs that your pet needs your help right away.

 While medical diagnosis is not possible over the phone, if you are in doubt, don’t hesitate to call for guidance about whether your dog’s symptoms require immediate medical attention or take your dog to your preferred emergency clinic for an evaluation of his condition.  It’s up to you to be your best friends’ best advocate and get them life-saving help if needed.

Charm is a beautiful black and white American Pit Bull Terrier. This spayed girl is around 3 years old. Charm is good with some dogs and she is great on a leash.

Her ideal home would be one where she’s the only pet as she has a tendency to guard her food. She prefers a household where she can be doted on and given lots of  that attention. Charm is house trained and up to date on her routine shots.

And your second adoptable dog for your viewing is Ollie. He’s a neutered black Labrador mix. He’s around 2 years old and has been at the shelter for just over a year. Ollie is great with other dogs, loves to swim and knows quite a few basic obedience commands.

All of the volunteers agree that Ollie is a big love. He is very protective of his property and has a big deep bark (which he uses when people approach his kennel). SCAS believes this is the reason why he remains at the shelter.

Won’t you give Charm or Ollie a chance? Contact Sarasota County Animal Services by calling 941-861-9523 or visit their facility located at 8451 Bee Ridge Rd.

This week’s pets are brought to you by ACE Pet Resort. ACE Pet Resort is an award-winning pet care facility with a knowledgeable and caring team situated on nine beautiful acres for the discerning pet that craves personalized care and individual attention.

 What is Dog Agility? Dog agility is a sport in which a handler directs a dog through an obstacle course in a race for both time and accuracy. Dogs run off-leash with no food or toys as incentives, and the handler can touch neither dog nor obstacles. The handler’s controls are limited to voice, movement, and various body signals, requiring exceptional focus by the animal and coordination of the handler.

Could a tiny Chihuahua do it?My boyfriend, Ryan, and I had never talked about agility for Rico. Ryan was the first to bring it up, “Hey, did you see that advertisement about classes at OceanWolf?” I looked at him a little startled; was I crazy for thinking Rico could do agility? “Don’t you think he is too small for that?” However, I was secretly hoping he would encourage me to look into it.

Dog Agility Classes right here in Sarasota!  I sent an email to Hera, the co-owner of OceanWolf Agility, and asked for her opinion. She offered a short 1 on 1 session to see how Rico would handle the environment and the equipment. I met her husband, Coz, at their training facility on Clark Road in Sarasota.  Within 15 minutes it was apparent to me that Rico was interested, and later I received an email with Coz’s review: “Rico did very well – has good focus, good jumping skills and eager to learn…..all ingredients for a good agility dog”. We signed up for Introduction to Agility, a 6 week course for dogs that are completely new to this fast growing sport.

What happens at agility class? To my utter amazement, he learned each new skill presented to him – the dog walk, the A-frame, the tunnel, the hurdles, the shoot and the tire jump. One by one he conquered fears and became the star of his class! It was so much fun for me, and he looked engaged, excited, and determined. Of course, high value treats help in motivation, but I truly believe he loved the mental and physical challenge. Every week, he whines with anticipation as we approach the facility. “Let me at it!!!!!!” Hera laughed at me when she recalled that I wasn’t sure if Rico would like agility.

 Agility builds confidence in the dog! It strengthens the bond between dog and human, and is a great activity for both. Don’t think you have to do competitions to do agility; OceanWolf has many students that come for their weekly excursion whether for fun, exercise or socialization. It doesn’t matter the reason – the dogs have a great time and sleep well after each class. A tired dog is a good dog!

Any size of dog and any age of person can do it! OceanWolf trains all types of dogs, and has youngsters to seniors enjoying classes weekly. Rico is officially the smallest dog taking classes at OceanWolf. Only 3.8 pounds but apparently built for pure speed. He graduated from his first class and has moved on to the next level of training.  

I’m not sure yet if we will compete on the Teacup Agility tour, as he still has to overcome his tendency to jump off the teeter totter rather than wait for it to hit the ground.  Agility is so much fun, I am so proud of Rico – and yes, even a Chihuahua can do it!!!!!!!!!!

Special thanks to photographer Ryan Miller for Rico’s agility images.

If you are interested in contacting OceanWolf Agility, you can email Hera@OceanWolfAgility  OR call (941) 922-5704 or (941) 321-9672.    Or, if you’d like to reach me, please send me a note at SNielsen2202@gmail.com or feel free to follow Rico and me on Facebook.