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NewsHound 015
Sept. 6, 2007
IN THIS ISSUE:
• Is Trouble worth $12 million?
• Fido too friendly?
• Biscuits & Burgers 2 + other Events
• News
Dear Urbanhounders,

As a publication devoted to the well-being of dogs, it seems we have a somewhat different perspective than other press outlets on deceased hotelier Leona Helmsley's $12 million bequest to her eight-year-old Maltese, Trouble. (Two of her grandchildren got nothing.) We've boiled our response to her, um, generous gift down to three bottom-line points:

1. Loving your dog more than some family members? We can relate. But it's never good for the welfare of dogs in general when ludicrously over-pampered, ill-mannered hounds make headlines. It just makes it easier for non-dog people to dismiss our adoration of our dogs as loony.

2. Imagine what that cash could have done for the Anti-Cruelty Society, PAWS, or any one of the other worthy shelters around the country. Helmsley left billions to charity. But unlike the detailed instructions provided for care of Trouble, she left no directives that funds be donated to animal-welfare organizations.

3. Stipulating in your will how your dog will be cared for after your death and, if possible, designating some funds for that care, is an excellent idea. The ASPCA has detailed information on how to set up a pet trust.

With best back to school wishes to you and your hounds,

Aaron Baar
Editor, urbanhound Chicago


Hound of the Moment
Learn all about Jackson (and make your dog a contender for the next Hound of the Moment).

Overheard on Hound Talk
I'm new to Chicago, and have to find new everything -- vet, groomer, etc. Let's start with boarding. What's your favorite dog hotel?

Does anyone know where I can find a reputable French bulldog breeder in Chicago?

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Hound Tips
» Is your dog a little too friendly? Urbanhound's resident trainer Andrea Arden has some tips about stopping Rover's excessive jumping and kissing when meeting new people.

»  Now that summer is over, does your dog still need flea, tick, and heartworm prevention? Get Dr. Brevitz's advice on keeping your hound pest-free all year.

»  No dog run in your neighborhood? Get to work! Check out urbanhound.com's practical and detailed guide to starting a dog run.

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Hound Events

Biscuits & Burgers 2
Thursday, September 6, 6 PM to 9 PM
Carmichael's, 1052 W. Monroe, Chicago
A fundraiser for local animal shelters sponsored by Chicagoland Tails magazine. Cost is $45 per person, $10 per dog.

C.A.R.E. Dog Wash
Saturday, September 8, 9 AM to 2 PM
C.A.R.E. Evanston Animal Shelter, 2310 Oakton St., Evanston
Staff from the C.A.R.E. animal shelter in Evanston will wash your dog and clip its nails to raise money for animals in need. Cost is $10 per wash and $10 for a nail trimming.

Cat and Dog Day Afternoon
Saturday, September 8, 11 AM to 3 PM
North Boulevard on the Marion Street Mall, Oak Park
The Animal Care League holds its second annual event, celebrating dogs and cats with local businesses, raffles and a kids' play area. Dogs are welcome. A registration fee of $25 gets you a T-shirt, goodie bag and entry into the raffle.

Adoption Event
Saturday, September 8, Noon to 3 PM
Whole Foods Market, 3300 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago
Dogs from New Leash on Life will be available. This is the first of several adoption events for the group in September. Check their events page for more.

Adoption Event
Saturday, September 8, Noon to 3 PM
PetCo, 3122 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago
Dogs from Chicago Canine Rescue Foundation will be available. This is the first of several adoption events for the group in September. Check their events page for more.

Adoption Event
Saturday, September 8, Noon to 4 PM
Spoiled Rotten Pets, 2501 N. Lincoln., Chicago
Dogs from ARFHouse Chicago will be available. This is the first of several adoption events for the group in September. Check their events page for more.

PAWS Open House
Saturday, Sept. 8, Noon to 5 PM
PAWS Chicago Adoption and Humane Center, 1997 N. Clybourn, Chicago
PAWS Chicago celebrates the grand opening of its new, state-of-the art adoption center and shelter, with refreshments compliments of Chipotle.

Paws on the Path
Sunday, September 9, 9 AM to 1 PM
Old School Forest Preserve, Shelter D (St. Mary's Road, north of Route 80), Libertyville
Humans, canines and felines are invited to this 4-mile "Pet-Athlon" walk to benefit the Save-a-Pet Adoption Center. Post-walk activities include music, treats and contests, including best wagger and biggest talker. Registration and pledge forms are available online.

Putt for Mutts
Sunday, September 9, 1:30 PM
Silver Lake Country Club, 147th St. 82nd Ave., Orland Park
A 9-hole, shotgun scramble golf tournament, followed by a veggie BBQ picnic to benefit ARFhouse Chicago. Prizes will be awarded for best foursome score, closest to the pin and more. A $75 registration fee includes green fees, cart, BBQ entry and an ARFhouse Chicago bag.

Take Your Dog to Dinner
Monday, September 10, 6 PM
Various restaurants around Chicago.
Animal assisted therapy program Chenny Troupe holds a fundraiser in which a number of Chicago-area restaurants will allow you to bring your dog for outside dining. (The city has issued a special proclamation for the event.) A portion of the proceeds will be donated back to the organization.

Mondog Meeting
Thursday, September 13, 7:30 PM
Margate Field House, 4900 Marine Drive, Chicago
The Montrose Dog Beach Committee holds its monthly meeting. On the agenda will be the installation of an access ramp (to comply with ADA regulations), fundraising and end-of-summer cleanup. The meeting is open to any interested parties.

Mutt Strut
Saturday, September 15, 8:30 AM to 1 PM
Lincoln Park Savings Bank, 3234 N. Damen, Chicago
The Chicago Canine Rescue Foundation hosts its fourth annual dog (and person) walk. The event is a 1.5 mile walk through Roscoe Village, ending with food, drink and other activities. Registration is $35 for adults, though kids and dogs are free.

Wag, Walk and Waddle 5k
Saturday, September 15, 9 AM
Phillips Park, 1000 Ray Moses Dr., Aurora
The Fox Valley Animal Welfare League holds its first annual 5K and fundraiser. Registration is $20, which will be refunded once a participant raises $25 in outside pledges. There is a one person/one pet limit.

Baubles, Bangles and Beads
Saturday, September 15, 11 AM to 4 PM
Baker Memorial Church, Main St. at 4th Ave., St. Charles
The Anderson Animal Shelter holds its first annual "jewelry faire," selling used (but not often enough) jewelry to raise money for the shelter. Donations are accepted during the shelter's business hours.

REGAP Car Show
Saturday, September 15, 10 AM to 3 PM
R&R Ford Sales, Route 251 South, Mendota
REGAP of Illinois greyhound rescue holds its first annual classic car show and fundraiser. All makes and models are welcome, and prizes will be awarded to the top 50 cars. There will also be raffles, auctions and other events, with proceeds benefiting REGAP. Registration is $15 in advance, $20 on the day of the show.

Sam O Rama
Sunday, September 16, Noon to 9 PM
Busse Woods, Grove 3, Elk Grove Village
The Northern Illinois Samoyed Association holds its annual get together for a day of "relaxation, good food, great conversation" and memories. All Samoyed owners and lovers are welcome. Registration is $15 for adults and $8 for kids 6-12 (children 5 and under are free.) Early registration by Sept. 9 gains entry to a free raffle drawing.

River North Rendezvous
Thursday, September 20, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
River North's gallery district, Chicago
The River North Association holds its 8th annual Rendezvous fundraiser benefiting area businesses, including the Anti-Cruelty Society. Twelve art galleries and showrooms are opening their doors in the evening, and there will be cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and music. Tickets, which include drinks, food and entertainment, are $50 per person in advance (or $90 for two), $75 at the door.

Big Night Gala
Thursday, September 20, 6:30 PM to 9 PM
Cafe Brauer, 2021 N. Stockton Dr., Chicago
Chicago's department of Animal Care and Control holds its third annual celebrity chef "Big Night" fundraiser and party. A dozen chefs will cook up treats (and an open bar will serve "Muttinis") while partygoers enjoy live entertainment, a silent auction and other activities. Admission is $75 per person. Call 312-224-1116 for more information.

AWL's Annual Yard Sale
Saturday, September 22, 10 AM to 3 PM
Animal Welfare League, 10305 Southwest Highway, Chicago Ridge
Find toys, books, office products, pet supplies and other treasures at the Animal Welfare League's annual yard sale. All proceeds will benefit the shelter.

Collars and Scents
Saturday, September 22, Noon to 5 PM
Ravenswood Bank, 2300 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago
Many shelters and rescue organizations -- including PAWS, New Leash on Life and ARFhouse Chicago -- will be attending this adoption event.

Adoption Event
Saturday, September 22, Noon to 3 PM
Urbanimal, 1257 W. Devon, Chicago
Dogs from Red Door Animal Shelter will be available.

Hogs for Dogs
Sunday, September 23, 9:30 AM
Heartland Animal Shelter, 2975 Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook
The Heartland Animal Shelter holds its annual motorcycle ride/fundraiser, in association with the Palatine HOG chapter. The ride goes from the shelter to Sideouts bar and eatery for post-event food and fun. Registration is $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the event.

K-9 Karnivale
Sunday, September 23, Noon to 3 PM
Grant Bark Park, in Grant Park, at about 9th St., between Michigan and Columbus Aves. Chicago
The South Loop Dog P.A.C. hosts its second annual party and carnival featuring games, contests vendors and more.

Tails and Trails Race
Saturday, September 29, 8 AM
DuPage River Sports Complex, 2807 S. Washington St., Naperville
The Naperville Park District holds its first annual Tails and Trails adventure race, featuring a 5K run along a cross-country path. Dogs are welcome, but not required, and prizes will be awarded for the top three individuals and person/pet pairs. Pre-registration is $20; on-site registration is $30

Pet First Aid and CPR
Saturday, September 29, 9AM to 1 PM
The Anti-Cruelty Society Education and Training Center, 169 W. Grand Ave., Chicago
Learn about basic first-aid techniques for your dog in a class taught by a certified Red Cross instructor at the Anti-Cruelty Society. A course fee of $40 includes all materials, but you'll have to leave your dog at home, as mannequins will be used. Call Tammie at 312-644-8338, ext. 344. If this class is full, there is another one scheduled for Oct. 7.

Run for Their Lives
Sunday, September 30, 9 AM
Lincoln Park, west of the North Ave. pedestrian bridge, Chicago
PAWS Chicago holds its 7th annual fundraiser, featuring an 8K run and a 4K walk. While dogs are not allowed on the run, they are welcome to join the shorter walk. A canine carnival, with snacks, freebies and presentations will immediately follow. Pre-registration fees are $30 per adult and $20 per kid for the run, and $25 per adult, $15 per kid for the walk. Registration fees increase $10 per adult and child for on-site registration. Dogs are free.

Barkapalooza
Sunday, September 30, 10 AM to 2 PM
Patriot Park, Fairview Ave. and 55th St., Downers Grove
The West Suburban Humane Society promises "great groups, great food and great fun" at this event, which will feature a walk, food, entertainment and a pet parade. The organization is hoping for each participant to raise $100 in pledges, with prizes awarded for the biggest fundraisers. (Pledge forms are available online.)

Bow Wow Bash
Saturday, October 6, 11 AM to 3 PM
Hamlin Park, Hoyne Ave. between Wellington and Barry, Chicago
Get your tail in gear for this event, where the top dog in several categories (including tricks and hot dog) will win prizes, as awarded by celebrity judges. Elvis will also be available for pictures. The event is free to watch, but entry into any of the events is $1. Sponsored by the Hamlin Park Neighbors Association.

Book Signing
Saturday, October 6, 6 PM
PAWS Adoption Center, 1997 N. Clybourn, Chicago
Author Nathan Winograd stops in Chicago to discuss and sign his recently published book, Redemption: The Myth of Pet Overpopulation and the No-Kill Revolution in America. PAWS Chicago, which is hosting the event, is accepting pre-registration and book orders in advance.

Pet First Aid and CPR
Saturday, October 7, 9AM to 1 PM
The Anti-Cruelty Society Education and Training Center, 169 W. Grand Ave.
Learn about basic first-aid techniques for your dog in a class taught by a certified Red Cross instructor at the Anti-Cruelty Society. A course fee of $40 includes all materials, but you'll have to leave your dog at home, as mannequins will be used. Call Tammie at 312-644-8338, ext. 344. If this class is full, there is another one scheduled for Oct. 28.

May Your Pet Be Blessed
Saturday, October 7, 10:30 AM
McHenry County College, 8900 Rte. 14, Crystal Lake
The Assisi Animal Foundation hosts its 19th annual blessing of the pets. All creatures great and small are welcome to receive a personal blessing from Reverend Doctor Warren F. Best. Participating pets must be on a lead or in a carrier.

If there's an event you'd like us to mention in the next NewsHound, please email us.
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Hound News

Dining Out Update: The Chicago City Council's license committee has approved an ordinance allowing dogs at outdoor cafes, finally. But there are some catches. First, the dog must have its rabies vaccination tags, or proof of rabies vaccination. Second, the eating establishment will have to apply for a $250 license good for two years. The measure is still subject to approval by the full city council.

There is yet another pet food recall. Stay away from Krasdale Gravy dry dog food and Red Flannel Large Breed Adult Formula. Both were found to contain a drug-resistant form of salmonella. Also, Wal-Mart removed two chicken jerky snacks manufactured in China from its shelves when they were found to contain the chemical melamine, like the other Chinese-made food recalled earlier in the year.

Considering buying a car? If you'd like hound-friendly features like metal safety gates, low-rise doors that make it easier to get in and out, and canine seat belts, consult DogCars.com, a website that reviews cars with your dog in mind. According to the American Kennel Club, half of all dog owners consider their pet when selecting a car.

Will dogs' contributions to humans' well-being never end? Their latest assist to our species: sniffing out illegal DVDs. Two black Labs, Lucky and Flo, are employed by the Motion Picture Association of America to look for the scent of polycarbonate, a polymer used to make the disks. The pair turned up 1.88 million pirated DVDs while on loan to Malaysia. In that country there is a bounty on their heads of 100,000 Malaysian Ringgit, or approximately $30,000.

Update on the Michael Vick case: The ASPCA and a San Francisco-based Pit Bull rescue group called Bad Rap have been brought in to assess the 53 dogs found on his property. Unlike most dogs seized from dog fighting rings, they were not euthanized immediately because they are evidence in a criminal case. ASPCA president Ed Sayres estimates that 10 to 20 percent of the dogs can be rehabilitated and adopted.

If your dog would like to express his feelings about Michael Vick, you may want to provide him with an Official Vick's Dog Chew Toy.

What's On. On Thursday, Sept. 13, Animal Planet airs a rerun of the Eukanuba Tournament of Champions from Portland, Ore., at 8 p.m. The network will also re-air the Animal Planet Dog Championships from Harrisburg, Pa., at 8 p.m. on Sept. 20. For Cesar Milan fans, National Geographic Channel begins a new season of "The Dog Whisperer" on Sept. 7, and airs new episodes on Fridays through the month. Also, the movie "Year of the Dog" is out on DVD.

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