From ‘tail’gating in the “barking lot” to the always adorable, action packed water-bowl cam, this television event – pitting two puppy teams in a contest (this year Team Ruff vs. Team Fluff) - is intended to raise awareness about shelter and rescue animals from around the country. This year’s roster includes players from spcaLA (California), Green Dogs Unleashed (Virginia), Little Dog Rescue (Florida), Alamo Rescue Friends (Texas), Shih Tzu and Furbaby (Georgia) and Found a Hound Rescue (Illinois) among others. Animal Care & Control of NYC provide kitties for the Bissell ® Kitty Half-Time Show including an appearance by “Katty Furry.” This game is dishing up a lot of ‘cute’ - from mix-breed terriers and German Shepherds to Shih Tzu’s, Havanese and Spaniels, you’ll get your fill, and then some.

Pup and kitty fans can learn more about the organizations that participated in Puppy Bowl XI by visiting http://www.animalplanet.com/tv-shows/puppy-bowl/.com/PuppyBowl

Fifty-five puppies will compete in GEICO Stadium for the famed Bissel® MVP (Most Valuable Pup) award while giggling goats – yep, you ‘herd’ it here folks – five Nigerian Dwarf Goats to be exact, cheer on the pups. Last year Puppy Bowl was the #1 telecast in all of cable with 13.5 million viewers, so grab a rawhide and let the fur fly. Can’t wait? Catch a behind-the-scenes locker room preview here http://www.animalplanet.com/tv-shows/puppy-bowl/videos/xi-best-moments/

WARNING: watching Puppy Bowl may cause pangs of desire to adopt a shelter animal.
In an emergency, contact the following shelters or rescues or check out their adoptable pets online:

BARCS (Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter)
http://www.baltimoreanimalshelter.org
301 Stockholm Street, Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 396-4694

Maryland-SPCA
http://www.mdspca.org
3300 Falls Road, Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 235-8826

SPCA of Anne Arundel County
http://www.aaspca.org
1815 Bay Ridge Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21403
(410) 268-4388
Ruff or Fluff? Kittens and Goats Join PuppyPalooza on Animal Planet Puppy Bowl

Baltimore Humane Society
http://www.bmorehumane.org
1601 Nicodemus Road, Reisterstown, MD 21136
(410) 833-8848

Small Miracles Cat & Dog Rescue
http://www.smallmiraclesrescue.org
10236 Baltimore National Pike
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 461-0516

I grew up with this Scottish prayer on the wall just inside my bedroom door, but it’s not likely that Fido or Fluffy will put their paws together and ask for protection from the Universe during the year’s scariest night - after all, that’s our job!  Dogs, cats, guinea pigs, gerbils, rabbits, reptiles and birds - they ALL depend on us humans to make sure that they are safe and free from the perils of human holiday fun.

Every year FUROCIOUS, along with others around the country from bloggers, local shelters, humane societies, and pet stores to the pet industry, reminds readers about the potential dangers that some holidays - like the Fourth of July and Halloween, pose for our furry posse. 

According to the Pet Poison Hotline, calls increased at Halloween by 21% in 2011 (those are the latest statistics), many which were related to chocolate consumption by pets. Candy and candy wrappers can be toxic to pets.  NEVER leave candy unattended, or within reach, of your cat or dog, in fact, FUROCIOUS recommends you put that stuff in a large container with a tight lid, accessible only to bipeds with thumbs!  Chocolate is toxic to pets and foil and cellophane wrappers, if ingested, will cause havoc on the animal’s digestive tract, which could result in surgery or death.

But so-called “healthy” snacks that we might offer to our children are equally toxic to pets, like grapes and raisins which will cause damage to Fido’s kidneys and which could lead to kidney failure. Choose, instead, carrots, frozen green beans or pet snacks made in the USA. If you are feeling ambitious, a previous FUROCIOUS blog included two treat recipes you can make at home, one with beef or turkey, the other with canned salmon (link here: http://www.baltimorestyle.com/index.php/style/lisa_shenkle/doggie_meatballs_and_salmon_blondies_make_for_better_turkey_treats_than_tab/)

Please remember to bring your pets inside - and keep them inside. Not just on Halloween night, but on the days and nights leading up to Halloween. Animal cruelty skyrockets every Halloween and it is particularly bad for black cats and dogs. Whatever you may be thinking, yes, it is worse than that - and even if you leave your dog(s) in the yard, there are sadistic people (many of whom come from other neighborhoods) who would not think twice about feeding poison meat to your friendly dog or stealing them with the intent to inflict cruelty.

The National Retail Federation predicts that in 2014 Americans will spend $350 million on costumes for their furry friends. Costumes are fun (mostly for us humans), so if you want to dress your favorite canines up (good luck trying that with the cat), make certain that the costume does not impair their vision or restrict their movement(s) or hearing. If you are walking with your animals, experts suggest a short leash, reflective tape on their leashes and costumes or flashing LED lights so that your animals will be seen in the dark.

Credit: Mary Sparrow Robles

If you are staying in the house with Fido, he might just prefer to be far away from the incessant door bell-ringing and door knocking. If your pets are kennel trained, since dogs are den animals, they feel safer in their crate and you can take them to a quieter area in the house. Otherwise, putting them in a dark room where they can relax with a couple of chew toys, a litter box for kitty, water and out of ear shot of the loud noises, will help to ease their stress.

For the truly anxiety-ridden dog, Thundershirt, created by the people at ThunderWorks, is a patented product created specifically as a calming product for your pet. Recommended by veterinarians and trainers, the gentle pressure that Thundershirt provides has been proven to work in over 80 percent of the dogs who have worn it.

Todd Cantrell, Vice President of Marketing at ThunderWorks, LLC told FUROCIOUS that “Halloween brings a barrage of strangers to the door, which will freak out any well-behaved dog.  And, the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is the trifecta of pet anxiety; holiday parties (strangers in the house), travel (car & plane anxiety), and the worst, separation anxiety (my family just left me!).  And, New Years celebrations are similar to 4th of July with regard to noise.” Thundershirt is available in pet stores everywhere, online shops and through http://www.thundershirt.com

Credit: Thundershirt.com

Removing lit candles from your Jack-O-Lanterns and other decorations and replacing them with flickering battery operated candles will prevent dangerous accidents if your cat or dog gets ‘spooked’ and knocks over a decoration with a lit candle. The last thing you need is your house catching on fire while you try to find your dog or cat. If you will not be watching your pets every move, consider eliminating, or hiding, as many electrical cords as possible to prevent chewing.

Everyone thinks they have a great dog - and you DO! - but dogs operate on instinct, not rational thinking, and self-preservation is always their first priority. Children with poor motor skills, combined with over-excited teens and some adults, most of whom are in costume (which is unfamiliar to an animal) might be perceived as being aggressive by your pet. Discourage children and others from taunting or teasing your pet; protect your pet from kids who lunge or make gestures that “appear to be” threatening. Nothing ruins a party quicker than someone getting bitten by a dog or scratched by a cat. In many states, including Maryland, animal control could remove your pet for observation if a bite is reported - just avoid it to begin with.

If your pet ingests candy or other toxic substances, consult your veterinarian, local Animal Emergency Hospital or call the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680 which operates 24/7.  There is a $39 per incident fee that covers the consultation and follow-up calls.

Special thanks to artist Mary Sparrow Robles (http://www.hangingthemoon.com) for giving FUROCIOUS permission to use her amazing artwork (oils on canvas) of adorable pups in costume. You can find Mary on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/HangingTheMoon which showcases all of her current pieces featuring nearly all breeds (including human children!).

Keep it safe. High paw and Happy Halloween!

Credit: Mary Sparrow Robles

One such event is Pet Night on Capitol Hill, organized by the Animal Health Institute.  In keeping with the bipartisan spirit of things, while FUROCIOUS is strictly a dog blog, we are celebrating the cats of Capitol Hill in our coverage.

Canon Caucus Room filled with pet supporters

FUROCIOUS has been invited the last three years, courtesy of event sponsor, the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC), to join Members of Congress, congressional staffers and special guests from the animal health and pet communities who gather annually to celebrate healthy pets. One of the biggest annual draws at Pet Night are the celebrity pets; this year, attendees met Marti, the dog who portrays “Sandy” in this year’s remake of “Annie,” and Orion, the cat who plays “Buttercup” in the über-popular “Hunger Games” series.  The red carpet, pup-a-razzi and light buffet round out the evening’s events while guests get their photos taken with the celebrity pets.

 
Josh Jones, PIJAC External Affairs Manager with FUROCIOUS and the adorable Marti/“Sandy”       
                   

Orion/“Buttercup,”

Siamese cat cookies

While this all might sound pawsitively silly, there is some important hand shaking, networking, testimonial-seeking-support for issues related to, and about, the pet industry and the well-being of our pets as a whole. 

“PIJAC supports the Animal Health Institute and this annual event because we seek to elevate the pet-ownership experience - one way we do that is through support of healthy pet initiatives, wellness programs and education,” says Ed Sayres, president and CEO of the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC).

PIJAC Staff, Rebekah Milford, Director, Marketing & Communications, Mike Bober, Executive VP, Government Affairs, Josh Jones

I was fortunate enough to run into Sheila Goffe, Director of Government Relations for the American Kennel Club (AKC) - who tells FUROCIOUS that she “thinks pet night is a wonderful opportunity for all pet lovers to celebrate our love of pets and our dedication to ensuring that they have a bright future. From the local to the federal level, the American Kennel Club and our 5,000 dog clubs around the country are proud to be an expert resource for legislators on issues of responsible dog ownership and canine health and wellbeing.”

There is no doubt that everyone who filled the Canon Caucus Room enjoyed a little light-hearted fun for a great cause - the promotion of healthy pets. However, as part of the fun, every year, members of Congress and their staff submit photos of their pets; winners are picked by the set of judges which include DC bloggers, broadcasters and/or print journalists. Winners in the Dog, Cat and Exotic pet categories were “unveiled” by Rep. Jeff Denham (R-CA) and his adorable dog “Lily,” a 2013 winner.

Rep. Jeff Denham and his dog Lily

Capitol Hill’s cutest dog was Phineas from Sen. Barbara Boxer’s (D-Calif.) office. Scottish Fold cat Cusco from Rep. Mike Honda’s (D-Calif.) office was selected cutest cat. And the cutest exotic animal went to Martini, a six-month-old Dutch rabbit from Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s office (D-Mass.).

Phineas

Cusco

Martini

The Patio at Langermann’s in Canton/Baltimore not only accommodates my penchant for fine food and canine company, there are TWO days left for patrons to support The Red Devils breast cancer support charity by dining al fresco with Fido.

The Red Devils is a non-profit organization that helps families impacted by breast cancer by funding transportation to treatment, family support needs, medical services and treatment-related therapies. Assistance from The Red Devils is available free of charge to anyone with breast cancer living or being treated in Maryland.

Syd Rom, the original “Devil Dog.”

DESTINATION, DONATION, DINING event began in June with a percentage of the proceeds from dining on The Patio, dubbed The Red Devils Café since June, through tomorrow evening, Tuesday, September 30th. The Red Devils Café features a ‘DEVILISHLY DELITEFUL’ menu created by Executive Chef/Owner Neal Langermann. Throughout the summer, a portion of the proceeds from this special menu has been donated to provide meals and support services to help improve the quality of life for Maryland breast cancer families. The menu will be available at the café and within the restaurant.

Award winning chef and visionary Neal Langermann is making the bold move to reinvent the partnership between restaurants and local charities. While most restaurants rely on their charity partner to bring them new diners and donate a percentage of sales for a one-day event, Neal has chosen to “go all in” by creating this four-month destination, donation dining promotion that extends through tomorrow. His goal not only is to raise funds but also awareness of the needs of those Maryland families fighting breast cancer.

At the kick-off of the Red Devils Café in June, Executive Chef/Owner, Neal Langermann had this to say about the fundraiser: “Everyone has been touched by breast cancer and while we all hope for a cure, The Red Devils is there for those families-—our neighbors—“fighting the fight.” What if you’re in treatment and can’t work? How do you pay your rent or for your medications? The Red Devils provides healthy meals and groceries—essential for staying strong—as well as many other support services. We’re excited to spearhead this unique fund raising event and we’re proud to be a Devils Advocate.”

The Red Devils Executive Director Jan Wilson said “We began this year with two big funding losses: 50% of our grant support from Komen Maryland went away, and Under Armour’s new strategic partner strategy resulted in our losing 100% of their support. We needed a hero. And we got one! Now, we’re confident we will have the funding to assist nearly 1,000 families in 2014.”

And what is a good patio nosh without the attendant cocktail? While it’s all water for Dugan and Barclay, FUROCIOUS is delighted that Christopher Cook of Maryland’s very own Sloop Betty HandcraftedVodka stepped up to sponsor the The Red Devils Café.  Whether shaken or stirred, we know that “Betty” brings great flavor and style to every glass.

You don’t have to have a pup (if you do, keep them leashed!) to enjoy the good eats at The Red Devils Café, that’s just a bonus to an already fabulous program organized by local restaurant, food and festival marketer, Randi Rom. Order some ‘good eats,’ bring the dog (if you have one), enjoy the vibe, the weather and the last days of warmer weather - ALL for a great cause.

Langermann’s is located at 2400 Boston St #101A, Baltimore, MD 21224, http://www.langermanns.com and can be reached at (410) 534-3287 for more information.

Every $300 raised funds treatment support for a single family. To receive support or to make a donation, visit or call TheRedDevilsMD.org or 410-323-0135.

Barclay with Aunt Randi Supporting The Red Devils.

Either way, Cocktails and Canines, a chic fundraiser for the Washington Humane Society (WHS) will have you and your favorite four-legged furry (of the canine variety) walking the red carpet, posing for photos, being sketched by an artist, enjoying some sips and ‘bites’ - the edible kind - and simply soaking in the ambience of one of the area’s elite shopping experiences at Neiman-Marcus (NM). This dog friendly event, Wednesday, August 20th, 6-8PM at the Mazza Gallerie store, was the brain child of Baltimore author, Ellen Gilman who FUROCIOUS introduced in a previous blog.  Not only does Ellen like to shop, she likes to share, and during the event, Ellen will be signing her book, Mollie’s Tail: To Mollie with Love and donating 50% of the proceeds to the WHS. 

This event, the first of its kind with Neiman-Marcus, WHS and FUROCIOUS as a media sponsor, will serve up festive fall fashion, and more, for the furry set and the humans that serve them.  In fact, bring your dog(s) for a full-on fashion show of the highest order - most fashionable pup(s) will win a $500 NM shopping spree for their human! Très chic!

“Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie is thrilled to be kicking-off a celebration of fall fashion trends with some of DC’s most fashionable - the lovely ladies and pups from The Washington Humane Society’s Fashion for Paws,” says Analissa Varian, public relations manager, Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie.

Along with a book signing with Ellen Gilman, featured highlights include a Bark Bar, nibbles and sips for humans and pets, “Doggy and Me” caricaturist, red-carpet photo station, models showcasing fall fashion trends, make-overs and more.

Emily Miller, Director of Special Events for the WHS says “We are delighted that Ellen Gilman is supporting the Washington Humane Society by donating 50% of her sales proceeds to us from the event. We truly appreciate individuals that care about and support our community’s animals. We are excited to start a new partnership with Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie. I’m hoping this is first of many events we do together. It’s a great opportunity to educate the community on the programs and services provided by Washington Humane Society, and of course have some of our adoptable animals hopefully find homes.” 

In addition to all of the excitement, WHS is bringing a few adoptable dogs to meet-and-greet as they strut their stuff. 

The event is FREE and open to the public; you may bring your well-behaved, well-dressed (not a requirement, unless you wish to compete for the $500 gift certificate), leashed dog to the Cosmetics Department, Level One, for all the fun. Please R.S.V.P. to 202.966.9700 ext 2346 or rsvpwashington@neimanmarcus.com

Cocktails and Canines, Fundraiser/Fashion Event
Neiman-Marcus Mazza Gallerie
5300 Wisconsin Ave NW
Level One (Cosmetics)
Washington, DC 20015
(202) 966-9700
Parking validated.

Dugan and Barclay encourage all friends of FUROCIOUS to attend this wonderful event in support of the Washington Humane Society, Mollie’s Tail and for the furry fashionistas everywhere - it’s a great way to take advantage of the tartan trend - and kick up a kilt!

Photo credit: Shawn Herne, Scottish Christmas Walk.

It’s not difficult to love the upscale trattoria, Verde, in Baltimore’s Canton neighborhood well-known for its authentic Neapolitan pizza, and you will fawn over the fresh, garden-picked taste of their salads (vegetable and fruit deliveries arrive five times a week) but now you’ll beg to sit at their outdoor seating! With valet parking, romantic string lights and a menu that keeps you coming back, you can now bring your favorite furry to sit at your feet.
Verde
641 S Montford Ave, Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 522-1000
http://www.verdepizza.com/

(Verde co-owner, Ed Bosco, surveying just one-half of the restaurant’s new outdoor patio space).

Just outside El Toro Bravo on West Street in Annapolis, on any given evening during the week, you can see Newfoundlands, Labs and even a Mastiff or two lounging with their humans who linger over mango Margaritas and some of the best Mexican food you’ll discover in the area.  Owner, Jose Aguirre, opens up the outside dining, gladly, to dog owners, some of whom are his best customers.  The restaurant’s claim to fame, however, is their 20 different flavors of margaritas made from about 70 varieties of tequila. Of course, it’s recommended you serve YOUR best friend the clear stuff - water!
El Toro Bravo
50 West Street
Annapolis, MD 21401
410.267.5949
http://www.eltorobravoannapolis.com/

(Natalie and her new Chocolate Lab puppy enjoying some face time with friends at El Toro Bravo)

Baltimore City’s best deal on happy (or yappy!) hour martinis has to be Waterstone Bar & Grill in the Mt. Vernon and Seton Hill area. Five dollar lemon drop, pomegranate, apple, dirty, cucumber in vodka or gin, accompanied by “Tapatizers” or any one of their Mediterranean inspired sandwiches, or main dishes, makes bringing your four-egged companion a truly enjoyable experience.  From Seared Ahi Tuna Salad and Grecian Style Cornish Hen to some of the best falafel FUROCIOUS has ever consumed (and while I’m no expert, this was stuff worthy of mentioning), you’ll enjoy the opportunity to dine while enjoying one of those delectable martinis or a bottle of Casillero del Diablo Coastal White (Chile) with your favorite fluffy at your feet.  The little dog in the photo was there on the same evening as FUROCIOUS.
Waterstone Bar & Grille
311 W Madison St, Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 225-7475
http://www.waterstonebarandgrille.com/

(Doggie guest, on the patio at Waterstone).

If ‘stardust’ is on the menu, wiggle and wag your way over to the outdoor patio at CHAZZ: A Bronx Original, where Baltimore’s own beloved Vitale family of Aldo’s Ristorante Italiano, paired up with Oscar-nominated actor Chazz Palminteri to serve homemade Italian-American classics - including its Bronx-style pizza, homemade limoncello and Burrata mozzarella.  If those don’t get you panting (paw-lease), the Crispy Risotto Balls (stuffed with mozzarella), Chicken Marsala or Fresh Fruit Pizza drizzled with Grand Marnier, or any one of their Sunday brunch items, are sure to please your palette. FUROCIOUS teamed up with CHAZZ during the 2013 holiday season for a happy hour fundraiser for Rescue Well, a local pet rescue organization that not only helps pooches and kitties, but gives aid to the families connected to those animals who might need help as well. Sergio Vitale and his team were nothing short of fantastic in supporting the cause!
CHAZZ
1415 Aliceanna St
Baltimore, MD 21231
(410) 522-5511
http://www.chazzbronxoriginal.com/index.php

Old world charm, elegant accoutrements and a menu keeping with the seasons comprised of local fish, seafood and farm-raised meat have made Harry Browne’s a favorite of lobbyists, legislators and seven Governors in it’s three-decades on State Circle.  Their outdoor cafe is famous for dog enthusiasts because ten percent of the cafe’s proceeds go to animal rescues. This week through August 23rd (and again on August 30th-September 6th), K-9 Lifesavers will be the beneficiary of any proceeds from the dog friendly patio (http://www.K-9lifesavers.org). On a stroll across the cobblestones, you’ll see many a leash tied to the chairs of diners and with water bowls nearby for thirsty canines. Crab cakes, crab dip, burgers, flatbreads, salads and main entrées and a brunch menu (with a complimentary Mimosa, red or white wine) includes a buffet of elite options and off-the-menu favorites including a filet mignon Eggs Benedict. Rover will cross his paws for an accidental drop! After your meal, head directly next door to complete your dog outing to PAWS Pet Boutique - a favorite, dog-friendly spot where owners Michelle and Larry will shower your favorite furry with love - and some of the best doggie retail around worthy of many sniffs.
Harry Browne’s
66 State Circle
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 263-4332
http://harrybrownes.com/

(Paws Pet Boutique fan waits for Sunday Brunch to begin at Harry Browne’s).

Beagles with bee-hives? Well, maybe not, but Cafe Hon owner, Denise Whiting, is well-known in the pet rescue world for her generous support of major events, such as the Show Your Soft Side campaign’s Big Softie Party and last year’s BowWowZa Awards. Even though their most notable “pet” is a multi-story pink Flamingo, in good weather, Cafe Hon opens their patio to all dog lovers and their furry companions. Denise tells FUROCIOUS that service dogs are ALWAYS welcome, too!  In addition, one of her regulars, Diane, brings her rescue dogs to the patio to socialize them and it’s all one big “dog” fest! All this dog-talk is just the cornmeal on the oysters, hon, because the new menu and ambience, indoor and out (including the Hon Bar) is delightful.  From crab cakes to grits and things off the griddle, FUROCIOUS thinks the the Gingerbread pancakes and the huge Belgian Waffle are drool-worthy. High-paw!
Cafe Hon
1002 W 36th St
Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 243-1230
http://cafehon.com/

(image courtesy of Maskworld.com)

(FUROCIOUS loves to get her snout into a great waffle - and this one is from Cafe Hon!)

Ellen Gilman told FUROCIOUS that she gave “Mollie” her word that she would share her story.  Mollie’s Tail: To Mollie with Love does just that…and more. 

One evening in 1986 Gilman received a phone call from her vet stating that a four-year old Sheltie had come into her practice with the request that the dog be euthanized. The problem: the dog won’t come when called, the owners had said.

Thus the story of “Mollie” begins – a ‘rescue’ before ‘rescue’ was a word in societal vernacular.  What unfolded in the months and years ahead was obvious to the Gilmans that Mollie had been an abused dog.  Mollie forever changed the lives of the Gilmans (known in the book as the Neville family) and they offered her a sanctuary where she could be herself, all the while being safe and loved.

Tuesday, May 13 at the Robert McClintock Studio & Gallery in Fells Point, the official book launch of Mollie’s Tail doubles as a fundraiser for the Northern Chesapeake Sheltie Rescue (NCSR).  As a child Ellen read voraciously about dogs and became a collie fan from the series of books by Albert Payson Therhune.  Later, she discovered a ‘sheltie’ in a friend’s neighborhood and her affection for the ‘miniature Collie’ was born.

Ellen is on her fifth Sheltie and Robert McClintock did a portrait of two of them, Annie and Luke, which will be on display at the fundraiser, along with Robert’s extensive collection of not only dog portraits and prints, but his other works as well.

Annie & Luke by artist Robert McClintock

“I’ve been a dog advocate for many years, especially pit bulls,” says artist, Robert McClintock.  “I am very happy to open up the studio and gallery for such a great occasion and especially if it’s used as a vehicle to raise awareness about rescue.”

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of Mollie’s Tail will go toward NCSR. Since its founding in 1999, NCSR has placed 597 shelties primarily in the mid-Atlantic region.

Event sponsors include include Roy’s, Hawaiian Fusion Restaurant (Harbor East), Langermann’s (Fells Point), The French Kitchen in the Lord Baltimore Hotel and BARK in Pikesville, along with yours truly, FUROCIOUS, who have all generously donated.

There will be a raffle, complimentary wine, cheese, other appetizers and desserts. Admission is FREE and dog-friendly. 

Mollie’s Tail: To Mollie with Love
Official Book Launch & Sheltie Fundraiser
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
5:30-8PM
Robert McClintock Studio & Gallery
1809 Thames Street
Fells Point (Baltimore)

Bring cash for the raffle, enjoy a brief reading by the author from Mollie’s Tail and mingle with other book and dog lovers over wine and wonderful art!

It was the 1st Annual BowWowZa Awards honoring Baltimore’s [mostly] unsung heroes - pet rescue warriors.  Hosted at Hampden’s Cafe’ Hon - and produced by the Show Your Soft Side (SYSS) campaign board, the restaurant was packed with good vibes and nominees wearing marabou halos.  Guests noshed on Cafe Hon’s delicious crab dip, nachos and fixings and mini-burgers while servers delivered wine, beer and soda at the bar and throughout the crowd.

As names of nominees in the categories were read off, the supportive crowd, quite literally shoulder-to-shoulder, acknowledged and applauded the obvious good works of each one. 

“We wanted to recognize and honor the rescue community in Baltimore, which does so much to relieve suffering, whether it is to help chained dogs or feed, neuter and find homes for abandoned cats.  We’re blown away by the time, effort, risk and money that these individuals spend to relieve the suffering of animals in our community,” said Caroline Griffin, Show Your Soft Side board member. “Our goal was to unite the rescue community even further, so that we may celebrate successes and mourn losses collectively.  Our categories were lighthearted, because the goal was to pick winners who are unsung - those individuals who may not be featured on the 11:00 news, but who go about their work quietly and without fanfare.”

Vicki Gurski selling Show Your Soft Side T-shirts and Sweatshirts

Indeed, FUROCIOUS gave many a ‘high-paw’ that evening to Rescue Well’s Christine Sandberg and Stacy Fields, Arika Pevenstein and her husband from Animal Allies Rescue Foundation (AARF), Michelle Ingrodi of Charm City Animal Rescue and many volunteers who tirelessly feed, transport, trap, unchain, photograph and crosspost needs on Facebook. I had the honor of meeting Mittens, spokescat for AARF, as she lounged in her crate in the celebrity green room and Denise Whiting introduced me to Cafe Hon’s resident Westie, Einstein (a girl) who charmed everyone with her kisses and sweetness. 

Sande Riesett, created, executed and funded the SYSS campaign which features hunky, big guys advising that ‘only a punk would hurt a cat or dog’ - guys like mixed martial arts fighter, John Rallo, rocker, Tommy Lee and Baltimore Raven Torrey Smith who was at the event with his lovely wife, Chanel.  This special evening of recognition was also Sande’s brainchild. 

The heartfelt, but fun categories ran the gamut from Most Likely to Cough Up a Hairball and Biggest Bleeding Heart to Do-gooder of the Year Award and Most Likely to Start Trapping, Neutering and Releasing Stink Bugs.  It was a night to rescue the rescuers, pass out metaphorical belly rubs and pats on the back to the people who least expect it or ask for it.  Who doesn’t need a little scratch behind the ears once in awhile? We do it for dogs and cats and we already know how loyal they are.

Sending a high-paw to ALL the nominees and winners! May your year be full of successful rescues, may your paths be cobbled with donations and your giving returned to you four-fold. 

Meredith Brown, Christine Sandberg, Arika Pevenstein

Baltimore Raven, Torrey Smith

Victoria Minkov, Angel Murray and Drew Sandberg were among the many guests, who are also involved in rescue, toasting the winners.

BowWowZa sponsors included Cafe Hon, Pixilated Photobooth, Full Moon Marketing & Events Baltimore, R&R Events and Pet Valu

Instead, celebrate your dog by making homemade dog treats this holiday season.  FUROCIOUS includes two recipes here. One from Barclay and Dugan’s ‘grandma,’ which was approved by our veterinarian nutritionist and another which comes from my friend Linda at Westie Rescue in Austin, Texas.  Please note that in every case, I strongly urge you check with your veterinarian, before feeding these to your dog(s).  Every dog is different, dogs have allergies and reactions to food not dissimilar to humans, so proceed with the disclaimer that while these treats work for my dogs, we cannot guarantee that they are healthy and safe for yours.

GRANDMA’S DOGGIE MEATBALLS

1 pound ground turkey or lean beef
2/3 cup grated cheddar (low fat, preferably)
2 carrots, finely grated
1 cup plain bread crumbs
2 eggs, whisked
2 teaspoons tomato paste

Preheat oven to 350º, Combine all ingredients, scoop out and roll into mini-meatballs. Place meat balls on cookie sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes. Store in a sealed container in refrigerator.
SHORT CUT VERSION: Press mixed ingredients into a 9x13 pan, bake about 25 minutes and cut into small squares.  Store as above in refrigerator.

SALMON BLONDIES

1 (14.5 oz) can of salmon
1/2 cup cottage cheese
1-1/2 cups garbanzo bean flour
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Preheat the oven to 350º.
Empty the can of salmon (liquid, bones, and all) into a food processor. Add cottage cheese and process well, until mixture is a mousse-like consistency. Add flour and cheddar and mix into a sticky, loose dough. Grease the bottom and sides of an 8 X 8 or 12 X 9 inch baking pan. (You’ll get thicker blondies with the smaller pan.) Turn dough out into the greased pan and push to the edges of the pan with wet hands or a spatula. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until golden brown. Cool in the pan and then cut into the desired size. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Happy Thanksgiving - and bone-apetit!

Beginning this evening in Timonium, at the Maryland State Fair Grounds, The 40th Annual Maryland Irish Festival (http://irishfestival.com.s141542.gridserver.com/) kicks off this evening Friday, November 8 at 6PM and fiddles its way through to Sunday, November 10 at 6PM. Check the website for daily times and for scheduled events, including musical performances. What’s this have to do with dogs, you ask? What Celtic inspired event would be complete without Irish Wolf Hounds? These gentle giants will be joined by Whippets, Greyhounds and an appearance by BARCS where you might get to meet a few adoptable dogs. Learn more about the specific breeds on-location while sipping a favorite Irish brew.  In combing through the list of vendors online, FUROCIOUS cannot tell if there are pet vendors there, but the last time we attended this fun foray into our Celtic roots, Dugan and Barclay were delighted to see how well-outfitted they were from our Irish Festival shopping spree.  Ticket prices vary.  Slainte!

Rob Maloy with Seamus and Baru from the 2011 Maryland Irish Festival