Misha May Foundation's Shadow rocks his winter sweater

Misha May Mutts enjoy Denver's first snowfall 12-30-10

newsletter 12/30/2010

What's inside? deep gratitude, 2011 events, holiday thanks, Holly kitty, All Grown Up Duke and Jack.

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/News-from-The-Misha-May-Foundation.html?soid=1102382262281&aid=CvuaWuAnt78

Don't pity a shelter dog, adopt one.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v5Ui8HUuN8

Misha May Mutterings 12-3-2010

Santa Photos at Murdoch's and Mouthfuls Sat Dec 4th. Join our special email list. Contagious mange alert!

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Vick's dogs prove each dog is an individual

"The Vick dogs showed that even under those circumstances many of them still did not prefer to fight, and even when they did, the simple fact that they were pit bulls did not guarantee that they would be good at it. The truth, in the end, is that each dog, like each person, is an individual. If the Vick dogs proved nothing else to the world, this would be a significant advance."

The Lost Dogs - Jim Gorant p. 126

If you love dogs - support Misha May's Holiday Photo Opportunities

Santa & alpacas

If you love dogs…

You’ve got to love The Misha May Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to improving the fate of shelter dogs. The foundation will benefit from three upcoming holiday photo shoots.

The fifth annual Holiday Photos for Pets and Kids is slated for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4 at Murdochs Home and Ranch Store 12154 N. Dumont Way, Littleton. (That’s south of C-470 on a South Santa Fe Drive frontage road, right across from the turn into Highlands Ranch.) The first photo is free, and all donations are accepted.

Also on Saturday, Dec 4. photos will be taken with Santa at Mouthfuls between 10 a.m and noon for a $10 donation. Mouthfuls is located at 4224 Tennyson Street, Denver.

Then mark your calendars for a photo op with Santa for pets and families from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at the Englewood Petco, 551 W. Hampden Ave.

For more information or to volunteer, send e-mail to mishamayfoundation@gmail.com or check http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/ .

Spread the word about the great deals you've found at locally owned retailers by sending an e-mail to Janet@bestcoloradodeals.com , and go to the
http://www.bestcoloradodeals.com/ Web site to subscribe to the Best Colorado Deals newsletter. And don't forget to catch her featured deals each Friday on Channel 9's 4 p.m. news!

Whole Dog Journal on Positive Dog Training

Whole Dog Journal does not accept advertising. It is an excellent resource for all things dog. Here is a link to an excellent e-book discussing positive training.

https://secure.whole-dog-journal.com/ppv/default.html?ET=wholedogjournal:e763:50111852a:&st=email&product_id=20092&t=totw113010la&track=totw113010la&source=WW_201011&stype=email

Why Misha May and most rescues conduct a thorough check on potential adopters.

This is why Misha May Foundation does a thorough check including a home visit, and charges a reasonable adoption fee which doesn't allow for profit in re-sale. Seems labs will pay about $300 for homeless animals which can also include stolen pets that they will use in experiments!

This is the type of person we are warning you about when we say don't give away animals for free or post them on craig's list:

http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=169299306436955&id=100000706596390#!/note.php?note_id=134977453219880&id=100001350215966

Ways to help Misha May animals

Ways to help the animals:

Monday 11/29 eat at Mimi's in Lakewood - 15% donated, 12/4 Santa Photos at Murdoch's in Littleton and Mouthfuls in Denver, 12/11 Santa Photos at Petco in Englewood.

Throughout the holidays, shop for our adoptables at Pet Station's Holiday Tree and visit the new virtual shelter. Looking for foster homes and loving adopters!!

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/News-from-The-Misha-May-Foundation.html?soid=1102382262281&aid=qXVBwWKKfXI#fblike

Pet Station's Holiday Tree for Misha May Foundation's Adoptable Animals

Pet Station's Holiday Tree for Misha May Foundation's Adoptable Animals

Visit Pet Station at 2300 S Colorado Blvd in Denver to see their holiday tree with ornaments for adoptable animals and their wishes for the holidays. Of course, each animal's first wish is for a forever home. If you can't help with that, then they are interested in treats and toys!

Both The Misha May Foundation and Good Samaritan Pet Center have animals featured on the tree. If you can't make it to Pet Station, check out their websites. You could make a donation through paypal or even mail something.

All of the animals thank you and wish you a wonderful holiday of whichever ones you celebrate at this time of year!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fe8o41fX22s

Sensational Shepherds from The Misha May Foundation

Buddy, a 6 year old 100 pound German Shepherd mix, plays with and is entranced by, petite guest Heidi.

Heidi was adopted through Misha May several years ago when she was a few months old. Misha May rescued her from an animal control facility where she had been dropped off. Heidi had had a very tough beginning and was very fearful. Now she is a relaxed and happy girl in her forever home.

Buddy needs a very special home as he can get over 6 foot fences, has a very high predatory drive, and is a little anxious. Because he had full-blown separation anxiety, an adopter would need to work with Buddy's foster for a smooth transition.

Buddy is an intelligent, handsome and lovable cupcake. Misha May rescued him from a shelter where he had been adopted out and returned three times. He was distraught and desperate and out of options. Clearly, like most animals, he had the resiliency and heart to come around, and is enjoying his life immensely.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lC5mbGtOkU

Misha May's Moment for Mutts guests see their first Mile High Musical Ta...

Gail and Capri dance to "I Believe in Magic". It was magical! Dog and handler enjoy performing. Audience appreciates their skill and mutual devotion. If you ever get a chance to see this group perform, don't miss it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=taq2_bKwUL0

Dont buy puppies Holiday PSA

Go to http://www.petfinder.com/ and type in the dog you want, including puppies. When you buy from a pet store, you condemn the breeding parents to a confined life of suffering and misery in a puppy mill. If you can't meet both dog parents, if you can't see where the puppy lives, if 'the sellers are so kind' they want to meet you part way - YOU HAVE SOMEONE DISREPUTABLE.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UT745n1vEqk

No Kill Policy - the person in charge

When you donate to a shelter or rescue, remember this story. The person in charge has to be committed to saving all the animals, not going along with business as usual which includes killing a lot of them for mostly invalid reasons. If St Louis and many other cities can do it, why can't they all? That wasn't a rhetorical question – the blocks and the blockers in kill shelters need to be removed.

http://www.fox2now.com/news/ktvi-no-kill-shelter-st-louis-saving-dogs-111610,0,3118319.story

No Kill Policy At St. Louis Shelter Saves Over 1000 Dogs
From 1033 dogs euthanized in 2009, to just three in the last few months of 2010. St. Louis is reporting stunning numbers since the non profit Stray Rescue took over control of caring for stray dogs roaming city streets.

Margie and Sunny perform at Misha May Foundation's Moment for Mutts

Margie and Sunny dance to Baby Face.

Margie and Sunny, a team from Mile High Musical Tails, often wear costumes and utilize props, and today was no exception. We hope you enjoy their camaraderie and joi de vivre watching this video, as much as the audience enjoyed them at Misha May's 10 year anniversary celebration.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13hR4GS3pa8

Misha May's Moment for Mutts hosts Mile High Musical Tails

The Misha May Foundation hosts Mile High Musical Tails at their 10th anniversary fund raiser A Moment for Mutts.

Donna and her dog, Mandy, dance to All the Way. They capture hearts as they perform ‘tootsie’ and ‘roll’ and many other challenging moves.
Donna and her dog capture hearts as they perform their beautiful routine.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5IUPHZaRd0

Misha May Foundation's Grand Prize Winner at A Moment for Mutts

Announcing the Winner of Misha May’s Moment for Mutts Grand Prize Basket valued at over $2300 in certificates and services. Thanks to all of the Natural Awakenings magazine and Misha May Foundation donors. Terry and Lorraine draw Gabrielle's name and she accepts the prize.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSYbLWgwlzQ

Mile High Musical Tails perform at Misha May's Moment for Mutts

Mile High Musical Tails perform at Misha May's Moment for Mutts
Four teams from Mile High Musical Tails performed at Misha May's 10th anniversary event. Be sure to see all of the videos. Kathleen and her dog wowed the crowd with weaving and spinning and reversing. People were moved to tears!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFSkZfWHYt0

Misha May Mutterings 11-19-2010

A Moment for Mutts report. There are still ways to help. Mimi's Cafe in Denver to donate 15% on November 29th. Two friends enjoy the sunshine.

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/News-from-The-Misha-May-Foundation.html?soid=1102382262281&aid=zU3xxHC6j9Q#fblike

Schwaub & Golightly Auctioneers liven up Misha May's Moment for Mutts

Schwaub & Golightly Auctioneers liven up Misha May's Moment for Mutts

It was great fun and fund raising, too, to have Jim, Judy, Del, Pam and Mary Ellen running a Live Auction for the first time ever at a Misha May event. We really appreciate their kind hearts and expertise. We learned a lot.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYrVbfQ8Wd4

Misha May Foundation Executive Director and Founder Remembers Misha at A...

Misha May Foundation Executive Director and Founder Remembers Misha at A Moment for Mutts

Misha passed away 10 years ago and this event celebrates her legacy, The Misha May Foundation, which saves dogs at risk. Misha was at risk in the '80s when she was on her way to a shelter, but instead was rescued, making her home with Lorraine. Lorraine May considers what might have happened had Misha become homeless today in 2010.

Then May invited everyone present to become more informed regarding accepted cruel practices in industries which use animals for profit. She passionately stated that it was up to us, the animal lovers, to choose wisely and compassionately with our dollars in order to change these animals' lives.

Earlier, a delicious lunch of vegetables, quinoa, rosemary beans and salad had been served.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HX5ikoNMdsQ

Dahlia's Troupe performs at Misha May Foundation's Moment for Mutts

Thanks for an exciting performance. You helped make it a fun evening!

Dahlia performs at The Misha May Foundation's Moment for Mutts

Thank you Dahlia. We loved your preformance and are so glad you could share this evening with us.

Moment for Mutts tickets for Sunday, November 14 at noon. Grand Prize tops $2300. You don't have to be present to win! $10 Spay and Neuter Day.

http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=ja9urvcab&v=001UIzoyTILna3oc5HHC1q1vBk0qZOlZOY0KYF0i3EhT3nDcbMyqLAaiU_liLZ-m_Iqvw3cpdWteOXBC9RY_C1AyJbdD1YuOtP15Z3_fufDw8Ueb1c-MG8WSAkJKgPRPexA4r-puq6vcNE%3D

Misha May's Moment for Mutts in 5280 Magazine

You can still get tickets or buy them at the door. Don't forget about the Grand Prize Basket worth over $2300. Email mishamayfoundation@gmail for details.

A Moment for Mutts Luncheon 5280 Denver's Magazine Since 1993
http://www.5280.com/
Calling all dog lovers to the annual luncheon for the Misha May Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to finding homes for shelter pups, especially at-risk dogs with behavior and medical problems. The luncheon will feature a silent auction, international belly dancer Dahlia, and the Mile High Musical Ta
http://www.5280.com/events/2010/11/14/moment-mutts-luncheon

Misha May Foundation video features Mile High Musical Tails performance ...

Misha May Foundation video features Mile High Musical Tails performance at Tagawa Gardens

Mile High Musical Tails were well received by the crowd at Tagawa Gardens today. There were several numbers of Musical Freestyle, a dog sport in which a handler and their dog execute a choreographed routine to music. This video features a team effort.

If you would like to see them perform, join us at the Mercury Cafe on November 14th for Misha May's 10th Anniversary Celebration A Moment for Mutts. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased with the make a donation button at mishamayfoundation.org, by calling 303-239-0382 or at the door.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgxW5_FCYlc

Don't miss Tagawa's Holiday Event - go Sunday Nov 7

Misha May Foundation video highlights rescues and artists at Tagawa Garden event

Don't miss the second day of Tagawa's Holiday event. Sunday, November 7 from 10-3. Fun, food, handmade gifts.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTzOk4peDQU



Misha May Foundation video highlights Hawkqwest at Tagawa Event

Bald Eagle, Harris Hawk, Barn Owl. All were at Tagawa Gardens Holiday Gift Show for People and Pets near Arapahoe & Parker Roads, in Parker, Colorado today. They will be there on Sunday, November 7th as well between 10 and 3.

Handmade gifts, Santa Photos, bake sale, food court, big dogs pulling little kids in wagons.

Come support Tagawa and the artists who support Colorado non-profit animal rescues.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4GsFadTLVk



Deb's Custom Critters donates to Misha May at Tagawa Event - Sun, Nov 7th too!

Deb is selling her beautiful Custom Critters, and taking special orders as well, at Tagawa's Holiday Gift Show for People and Pets near Arapahoe & Parker Rd in Parker, Colorado.

Each artist at the event donates a portion of their proceeds to a non-profit Colorado animal rescue. A winning formula for everyone involved.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13G7_uG2L8s

Deb's Custom Critters donates to Misha May at Tagawa Event - Sun, Nov 7t...

Deb's Custom Critters donates to Misha May at Tagawa Event - Sun, Nov 7th too!

Deb is selling her beautiful Custom Critters, and taking special orders as well, at Tagawa's Holiday Gift Show for People and Pets near Arapahoe & Parker Rd in Parker, Colorado.

Each artist at the event donates a portion of their proceeds to a non-profit Colorado animal rescue. A winning formula for everyone involved.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13G7_uG2L8s

Misha May Foundation at Tagawa Gardens in Parker - Sunday too!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qsy9XI9xP5k

The Misha May Foundation participates in Tagawa Garden Center's (Parker, CO) FREE Holiday Gifts for People and Pets Event, also happening on Sunday, November 7 from 10-3

‘Unique, one-of-a-kind, reasonably priced, so creative’ - those are some of the comments heard today about the handmade items for sale, from which each artist donates a portion of their profit to a non-profit Colorado animal rescue. This video depicts the jolly atmosphere filled with services like food, gift wrapping, ID tag engraving, Santa photos, singing and baked goods.

Come with your friends or family. Bring your dog. Meet and support the groups who watch out for the animals. Come and support the artists who care enough to share their earnings. Visit Tagawa Gardens, known for wonderful products, as well as their continuing support of the animal rescue community.

Stop by Misha May's booth, mention this video and receive a free collar cutie, magnet or key ring. While there, you can buy a discounted $25 ticket for the 10th Anniversary A Moment for Mutts, November 14 at the Mercury Cafe in Denver. If you can't attend, please buy tickets for the Grand Prize Basket valued at over $2300 in gifts and services - you don't have to be present to win. Visit mishamayfoundation.org for more details.

Misha May newsletter 11/5/2010

This weekend - free Tagawa event. Next weekend - Misha May's Moment for Mutts. Grand Prize Basket tops $2200 - you don't have to be present to win! Special suggestion for Bronco fans. What do Westword, Best Colorado Deals, Natural Awakenings, Mile High Dog and Locate Fine Art have in common?

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/News-from-The-Misha-May-Foundation.html?soid=1102382262281&aid=g3JA-j4VMok#fblike

Misha May Foundation Volunteers Prepare for A Moment for Mutts, 10 year ...

A $2200 Grand Prize Basket, over 150 Silent Auction Items, a dozen Door Prizes. A Mercury Cafe Meal, Dancing Dogs and a Belly Dancer. Live Auction, Cash Bar and Rescue Success Stories. This sounds like an afternoon to remember. November 14th at noon. Tickets are still available at $35. You can help the dogs by buying tickets to win the Grand Prize Basket without even attending. 1 tx is $5, 3 tx are $10 and you get 10 tx for $20. Go to www.mishamayfoundation.org to use our make a donation button or call 303-239-0382.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3msdQN0-iLs

Best Colorado Deal of the Week from Janet Simons, author of the Colorado Smart Shopper and veteran Rocky Mountain News shopping columnist

The Misha May Foundation, a local non-profit that helps rescued dogs overcome trauma-induced behavior problems, is offering Best Colorado Deals subscribers a $10 discount on tickets to its 10th Anniversary Moment for Mutts party Nov. 14th at the Mercury Café. The $35 tickets will be $25 through Nov. 5 if you mention you saw it here. For details on the celebration, go to www.MishaMayFoundation.org. To purchase tickets, hit the donation button at www.mishamayfoundation.org or call 303-239-0382 and offer your credit card number.

If you can’t make the party, catch the Holiday Gifts for Pets and Their People event at Tagawa Gardens, 7711 S Parker Road, Centennial, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6, and Sunday, Nov. 7. Animal communicators will be offering sessions both days at $1 per minute, and artists and artisans will be offering photography, knitted and crocheted items, holiday decorations, scrapbooks, jewelry, paintings, woodwork and more to benefit the organization.

Direct to you from Janet Simons, author of the Colorado Smart Shopper and veteran Rocky Mountain News shopping columnist.

Spread the word about the great deals you've found at locally owned retailers by sending an e-mail to Janet@bestcoloradodeals.com, and go to the
www.BestColoradoDeals.com Web site to subscribe to the Best Colorado Deals newsletter. And don't forget to catch her featured deals each Friday on KUSA Channel 9's 4 p.m. news!

Natural Awakenings Magazine helps Misha May's Moment for Mutts

Thanks Natural Awakenings magazine for promoting Misha May's fund rasier Moment for Mutts on November 14th in Denver at the Mercury Cafe. This is our 10th Anniversary and we need your help to keep going strong.

Here is a link to the magazine's newsletter. Please support them and all of our great sponsors!

http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=6jbciodab&v=001gjTeQvTgjppgqhm7v1Y_sHNqX5DVkiOHq_ZzZZSuYUooJVN9j8lR9yYWA-MwTbv9Y1v69rE8r5hNWksbpU4ZnjEwXVn_VSo7mLis8btGuyKLnhKlHxWQcQ%3D%3D

Mention NAmag for a discounted $25 ticket through November 5th!

A Sudden Behavior Change in Your Dog Often Indicates Pain or Illness - Meet some terrific owners!

Dear Misha May Volunteers,

Thank you, in advance, for all you do for animals and for being here when my family needs you. I don't know where to turn!

Years ago, my daughter felt that a dog was being mistreated in her apartment complex. One night, she heard screeching and screaming that sounded like a person. She called the manager who helped her investigate. The dog’s family had moved out and left the dog behind. The dog was in bad shape and was snapping at everyone. My daughter knew that if she took her to a shelter she would have likely been put down.

We have had her for almost 3 years. We have worked hard to rehabilitate her. We have been through 3 rounds of obedience training and she is a little star at it. We had felt like she had come around. Unfortunately, out of nowhere, she bit my 10 year old son today. He was just walking by her on the stairs. I was following right behind him, so I saw that this came completely out of the blue and unprovoked. What do I do????

My son is distraught and crying because he thinks he is going to lose the family dog and it will be all his fault. My husband will not even think of keeping her here (as sad as it makes him feel) because he feels like it is choosing a dog over our son. I have to be honest with any future owners, but any future owner from Craig's List etc. doesn't have to be honest with me about themselves or aware of their limitations in dealing with a dog like this. If I take her to a shelter, info about her bite history will be the first question they will ask.

Please, please, please call me or reply back with advice.
Bless you and thank you!!!
Worried Parent



Response to Worried Parent from Lorraine May, Executive Director and Head Trainer:

First, let me say how wonderful it was that you took in this poor abandoned dog. She is probably traumatized from that experience and not completely over it.

ALL dogs will bite under the right circumstances. I'm not condoning, just saying that something triggered this bite. Most bites happen in this age group. In general kids scare dogs.

If it is truly out of the blue, you need a vet evaluation for possible pain or illness issues.

Please write back and describe the bite: where on the child, bruise, broke skin, stitches required?

You are correct about taking her to shelter - she would most likely be put down. You are correct about Craig's List - creeps follow that list for free animals to resell for experiments and fighting.

We have no foster homes open at this time. We have no facility unfortunately.

Here is what we can offer:
1) We do in-home behavior evaluations if you are in our service area. We can assess the situation and help you avoid a repeat.
2) We can post her on our website where potential homes are screened through application and home visit. You would have to keep her in the home or pay to board her.

Also I am letting someone know about this from her Breed Rescue group. Perhaps they will have an idea but I know they just took in many dogs from a puppy mill situation. I will let them know I would help with her rehabilitation.



Dear Lorraine,

Thank you very much for getting back to me and for supporting us through this. Saturday, after I emailed you, I took our dog into the vet to have her checked out for perhaps some physical cause to her aggression. Unfortunately, we found that she has advanced liver disease.

We have decided to keep her and treat her as best we can for as long as she is with us. Perhaps with treatment she will improve in temperament, but the vet we saw was not optimistic. Even if she doesn't improve, we are committed to giving her every chance possible and loving her through this next challenge in her life.

Thank you, and the Breed Rescue folks, for being there for people and animals like us. Your understanding support kept me from making a snap decision that we would have regretted forever.
Best regards



Lorraine’s response:

Thank you so much for updating us. Bless you. I know how scary it can be when the dog we know and love suddenly doesn't act like the dog we know and love! I'll forward your note to the Breed Rescue people as well. All the best to your family and pup - she's lucky to have you!

ONE MORE DAY - OCTOBER 31st - to buy your discount ticket to Misha May's Moment for Mutts at the Mercury Cafe in Denver on November 14th

Details here:


http://myemail.constantcontact.com/News-from-The-Misha-May-Foundation.html?soid=1102382262281&aid=YvDufHWazws#fblike

Misha May Foundation's Zeb, Twinkle and Valentino share a happy home!

Fun Fun Fun on this beautiful fall Colorado day, October 30, 2010. Zeb, the Golden Retriever, has been adopted since he was 1.5 years old and is now 11 years old. Valentino, the beagle mix, and Twinkle, the boxer mix, were born in a shelter. They went to a Misha May foster home at 2 days old along with their mom SuzyQ and their 6 littermates. Valentino and Twinkle live with Zeb. Their mom and all of their littermates found fantastic homes too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHSvP-W4i_8

Wild Birds Benefit from Misha May Foundation Kennel Cups

Not being able to afford a bird bath didn't stop us! The Misha May doggies donated their kennel cups to the birds for their drinking and bathing. They love dipping into the cups on the top of the fence. As you can see the birds have their own sanctuary in a fenced yard. The dogs are entertained in the adjoining yard, and help keep the squirrels out of the bird food (squirrels have food in the front yard), and the birds safe from neighborhood cats. Win- win-win, well, except for the cats.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBZDUatpRCQ

Misha May's 10th Anniversary Moment for Mutts in Westword

Misha May's 10th Anniversary Moment for Mutts at the Mercury Cafe in Denver on November 14, will be featured in the Day and Night section of Westword during the preceding week.

Pick up a Westword, a Natural Awakenings and a Mile High Dog - our favorite mags!

Get your discounted $25 ticket by Sunday the 31st before the price change! mishamayfoundation@gmail.com

303-239-0382

mishamayfoundation@gmail.com

http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/

Heidi, adopted through The Misha May Foundation, loves reiki

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TfY_6o8JU8

Heidi was dropped off at an animal control as a 3 month old pup. They called Misha May Foundation because they wanted to get her help, but knew they could not adopt her out. Heidi seemed a likely candidate to bite someone as she had been pushed beyond her tolerance level. She was so terrified, that she had backed into the corner of the cage, growling and showing her teeth.

As you can see, Heidi has come a long way with time, love, patience and training from a great owner through Misha May's training programs.

You can set a reiki or behavior appointment through mishamayfoundation@gmail.com. You can study training in the Understanding Dogs class or become Reiki Certified as an Animal Practitioner in January, 2011. http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/.

Amy, adopted through Misha May Foundation, receives Reiki

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WWND9Xxmeo

Amy had run out of time at a local shelter. Misha May agreed to pick her up and find a home for her. When we went to get her, she had tested positive for FIV. We took her to her foster and she was adopted very quickly by someone who only wanted one cat. FIV cats can live long and healthy lives. Amy landed very well and is doing great.

Amy is receiving a Reiki treatment from students in Misha May's Reiki Certification as an Animal Practitioner class at Doggie Pause in Englewood. For an appointment for your animal, email mishamayfoundation@gmail.com. To become certified, register for a class beginning in January, 2011.

Misha May Foundation's adoptable Corky receives Reiki

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CSwvO17GrU

Corky, a 4 year old neutered male cream tabby, is receiving a Reiki treatment from students in Misha May's Reiki Certification as an Animal Practitioner class at Doggie Pause in Englewood, CO. Reiki treatments for animals can be scheduled at mishamayfoundation@gmail.com . Certification classes will resume in January, 2011. Details can be found at http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/.

Corky is a super friendly, calm, easygoing cat. Since Misha May rescued him from a shelter where he had run out of time, he has never had a moment of unease - well, except when his dinner is late! He is truly a darling who would love to have his forever home soon, even though he can hang out, without worries, with Misha May until that happens.

8 days left (Oct 31) to purchase $25 discounted tickets to our 10th Anniversary Moment for Mutts

Join us for our 10th anniversay - 8 days left for $25 discounted tickets to Misha May's Moment for Mutts in Denver Nov 14.

Details here:
News from The Misha May Foundation

Dog Dancing & Belly Dancing at the Mercury

Misha May Moment for Mutts at the Mercury in Denver on November 14th just got more exciting. Mile High Musical Tails will be performing. Dahlia, internationally respected belly dancer and instructor will also be performing.

Follow the link for more details: http://mishamayfoundation.org/MISHA_Nov14th_Flyer_v2.pdf

Rainy Day Dog Report from the Yard

Brinx, Yellow Lab x: Where's the tennis ball? Where is it? Who wants to play? Where's all the dogs? But seriously, who wants to play?

Buddy, 100 pound GSD: I'm allergic to rain. It makes me little and vulnerable. I have to hunch my shoulders and pucker my lips and close my eyes. I must hold everything as long as I can.

Flash, Border Collie mix: I peed. Now what? Since Shadow is cowering under the chair, I should go there. But look, Lorraine is in the yard; I should go there. Here, there. Here, there. I forgot to go and now we are going inside. Darn!

Shadow, 10 pound Chi x: I peed. isn't that enough?

Sierra, Yellow Lab x: I hardly notice the rain although I can't remember if I went to the bathroom or not because I am worried about the weird thing Lorraine is holding over her head.

Tara, Black Lab mix who used to be terrified of thunder, and wouldn't go out willingly in the rain, before it rained or after it rained: I had a job to do. I went out. I peed, I pooped, and I'm proud. See ya!

Teddy, Aussie-Border Collie-Chow-Rottie: What in the world is wrong with Sierra? Doesn't she realize that rain is ba-a-a-a-a-a-a-d stuff? Uh-oh, Lorraine has my leash. Let me just dig my heels in until she gives up. Whew, safety, until she tries again later, which I know she will.

Twinkle, little Boxer / Lab: I can't go out there. I won't go out there. I shouldn't go out there. I'll hide under this table and no one will see me. What is Valentino doing out there? Has he lost his mind? But anyway, I can't go out there.

Valentino, Beagle / Pointer: There's a stick I can carry. There's stuff to pee on. Where's Twink? Under the table? There's more stuff to pee on. There's the birds to look at. There's another stick. More stuff to pee on.....

Zeb, Golden Retriever: Rain, what rain? Where Lorraine goes, I go.

Lorraine, Foster: mudmudmudmudmudmudmudmudmudmudmudmudmud

Update from adopter on Misha May's Holly

Holly's story: Holly came to Misha May after Katrina. She was an owner surrender because the owner had nowhere to live and no way to care for her. She was adopted by a couple who subsequently divorced. Neither was able to keep her, so according to our contract, she was returned to us. Luckily, along came the current adopter. Holly is a great dog who found herself in some challenging circumstances. We are thrilled to see her living a great life.

"Here’s some pics of Holly with her bones. You can see that as soon as I took them out of the basket she was all busy checking them out. Thanks for the tip on playing games with her. She truly is an amazing companion. At 12 yrs old she is doing great with her joint supplements and arthritis pain managed."

"The reason we have ended up with soooo many bones is that I work long hours and so we try at least once a month or so on Saturdays to take her on a "fieldtrip" to the pet store. She loves it. And like a child in a toy store she gets to pick out a bone. In fact, she perfectly understands the words: road trip.....and bone...."

Are you an Introvert in an Extroverted World?

Tuesday, Oct 12 from 7:00pm - 9:00pm in Lakewood, CO.
$30

This class is for Introverts who want strategies, and information. If you have ever felt invisible, overwhelmed, shy, sensitive, or out of place, this class could be very helpful for you.

Email mishamayfoundation@gmail.com or call 303-239-0382.

Details at http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/events.htm.

Lorraine and Zeb Canine Freestylin' after 3 lessons!

It's only the beginning...

Our teacher, Sue, has us begin by using verbal commands and luring with a treat. This is perfect for us since we love the positive approach. Eventually, we'll stop using treats or hand signals, and come to rely on the verbal commands we are BOTH learning, like 'circle', 'rick', 'kick', 'lott', 'wiggle', and 'eight'.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lj5_Kz8WY9k

It is really fun to spend this time with my beautiful 11 year old rescued Golden and see him enjoying himself so much. We may get smoother and more adept, but if we don't, so what? I'm in it for the time with him. But I do promise to practice and film again!

California Pizza Kitchen Rocks

California Pizza Kitchen in Cherry Creek rocks! I just picked up a $200 check from Misha May's fundraiser there. Thanks Brooke, Eileen, Jenny, Joan, John & Susie, Terry, and everyone who ate there!

Great food! Pizzas, sandwiches, soups & salads. Many vegetarian and vegan choices. Definitely gluten-free choices as well although they aren't a 'guaranteed kitchen' which some folks require.

Misha May Foundation's Huck practices in the park

Huck is pulling his best friend Millie so that as she slowed down, she could still go on the walks too. Dad designed the pulling harness and wagon especially for them.

Huck was adopted 5 years ago and lives a great life. Recently, his sister Millie passed away. Millie was a great companion for Huck. Being older and more experienced, Millie often set the tone and led the way with skill and wisdom. Huck was deeply affected by this loss of guidance and acted out. In this video, his owner is practicing some techniques to help them stay calm in stressful situations.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IRr8K78Pr8

They are creating space between them, and potential triggers by 'arcing'. Dogs begin to anticipate this 'game'. They understand that their owner knows they need help feelling safe in order to not react. When Huck hears "Let's arc" he knows to follow his owner to a safer, calmer distance. This relaxes him since he knows what to do.

They are also practicing moving and turning together fluidly. When Huck hears "Let's go" he knows that he will need to pay close attention to his owner because they may move quickly. And it will be fun!

Huck also knows that each time he voluntarily looks at his owner he will be rewarded. He is learning that instead of making bad choices out of fear or ignorance, he can depend upon is owner to guide him.

Huck's life before this home included abandonment, heartworm disease, and most likely being attacked by other dogs. He has hit a difficult time with the loss of Millie but his family is seeing him through.

Contact Misha May FIRST for training, so you won't need us for rescue later. http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/

Update on Misha May Foundation's Roxi

I just wanted to give you an update on Ms. Roxi. She is a GREAT DOG!!!! We are so in love with her, I think she's quickly becoming accustomed to the spoiling. She is not only NO LONGER a flight risk (we can actually hold the door open and she just stands there patiently) she's even played with us (something I thought she was just too old to do, anymore.) She loves food and has a "bad" trash habit, if left to her own devices, but she could quite possibly be the world's PERFECT dog!!! (just don't tell Tutter... ;o) ) We are SO grateful to have her.... we love her SO much!!!!!

Jenifer, Sara and Elias

Volante Shakes at Misha May Foundation's Labor Day Picnic

Misha May Foundation Adoptathon at Englewood Petco, August 2010

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JWNd4lArwE

Buddy, Teddy and Sierra received lots of attention thanks to volunteers Ann, Barbi, Diane, Doug, Jenny, Lorraine and Patricia!

Contact us FIRST for training so you won't need us later for rescue. www.mishamayfoundation.org

Classes and in-home behavior programs.

Misha May catches up with lucky adoptees Ginger and Blue, plus Sydney

www.mishamayfoundation.org
Contact us FIRST for training, so you won't need us later for rescue.

Ginger, the shepherd mix, was adopted through Misha May 5 years ago, joining Sydney, the jester-faced Blue Heeler. She was extremely overweight, depressed and in pain. She acts and feels so much younger, and has a soft beautiful coat. It is wonderful to see the good care she has received, and to know she is enjoying her life.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3ahl2OWSB0


Blue, the smaller Blue Heeler, joined the family about a year ago. He had run out of time in a shelter when Misha May rescued him. He spent almost 2 years with the organization while they worked on his anxiety and fear issues. He spent time in a boarding facility as well as several foster homes. Blue has settled in, smart dog that he is, and is enjoying the stress free life he always dreamed of. The Misha May video, "BLUE", was about him, but now he is home!

Misha May Foundation Benefits from Doggie Pause "Dogs on the Wall" fund raiser

Doggie Pause Dog Daycare, located on Acoma St in Englewood, CO, added another dog to their beautiful wall. Each year, clients may enter a contest to have their dog painted into a wall-size mural. This year, Henry was chosen - a touching tribute as Henry had recently passed away. On hand were some clients and their dogs, including Henry's people and his sister Sage. At the time of taping, there were only Golden Retrievers present, although, of course, on any given doggie daycare day, all manner of pure breeds and mutts attend.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWXz7vcvhSM

The Misha May Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dog (and sometimes cat) rescue serving Denver. Call us FIRST for training, so you won't have to call us later for rescue. http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/.

Doggie Pause, is a well run dog daycare staffed by trained employees. They also have space for holiday baording. http://www.doggiepause.com/

The True Cost of Training

by Lorraine May, M.A.
Executive Director, Founder and Head Trainer
The Misha May Foundation
mutts in safe homes always
a 501(c)(3) non-profit dog and cat rescue
www.mishamayfoundation.org
mishamayfoundation@gmail.com
PO Box 151166
Lakewood, CO 80215-1166
303-239-0382

Contact us FIRST for training, so you won't need us later for rescue.

$$$

The true cost of training is a dog's life.

Before you or your friends are seduced by guarantees, impressed by slick marketing, or awed by 'special equipment', remember that effective training relies upon the trainer or behaviorist's knowledge and application of behavior science.

There are two main approaches: education and coercion. Some professionals adhere solely to one approach. Many trainers mix and match techniques from both schools of thought. http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/dominance.pdf

Misha May utilizes only educational methods, and will only recommend others who do so.

Misha May receives entirely too many calls from owners who have spent large amounts of money on training and now they have lost hope. Sometimes the training is simply ineffective, but tragically, through coercive measures or lack of knowledge, the dogs's behavior is now worse or even aggressive.

These owners now want to give up their pet. Misha May is committed to helping families keep their pets. Contact us before you spend your money or lose hope.

Contact us FIRST for training,
so you won't need us later for rescue!
mishamayfoundation@gmail.com 303-239-0382

Gabriel Millman 1995-2010

Gabriel Millman of Lakewood, Colorado, passed away at Belcaro Animal Hospital in Denver on Wednesday, September 1, 2010, two months shy of his 16th birthday. For several months he had had canine anorexia, ultimately succumbing to kidney disease. His death was helped by his loving mother, Barbara Millman, Dr. Anna Otero, his veterinarian that day, and vet technician Susan Lillevold.

Gabe was adopted by his mother at eight weeks from The Denver Dumb Friends League in January, 1995. At the age of four weeks, he and his many siblings had been dropped off by humans who reported that the puppies' parentage consisted of Golden Retriever, Shetland Sheepdog and Cocker Spaniel breeds.

He had little formal education, dropping out of several obedience classes as well as failing a comprehensive pet therapy course conducted by Colorado State University social workers. Although he advanced quickly in the course and mastered several advanced stress tests designed to prepare him for a potentially chaotic and noisy hospital environment, he refused to sit during the final examination.

From that experience, his mother drew the conclusion that he lacked motivation to work. However, after his feline sisters, siblings Nellie and Amanda, were adopted into the family, he specialized in herding, no doubt due to his Shetland Sheepdog heritage. Occasionally he could be found herding Nellie after she had escaped to the family's backyard, standing over her and barking with pride and triumph at his success.

Gabe drew no distinctions between purebreds and mutts. He enjoyed profusely dogs of all sizes and a diversity of odors, and his spirit thrived in the presence of nearly all humans, indifferent to their race, political persuasion or religion. Gabe himself was a practicing Buddhist, and, in fact, sported a Mutthama Gandhi costume in a pet parade some years back.

Gabe especially enjoyed hiking and camping in Colorado, New Mexico and Montana. Daily he could be found walking the trails, sidewalks and streets of Lakewood and Wheatridge, Colorado neighborhoods.

He is survived and sorely missed by his devoted mother and his sisters. He also leaves behind his uncle, Lawrence Millman, of Cambridge, Massachusetts, a plethora of first cousin Giant Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches, as well as numerous human and canine friends. He was predeceased by grandparents Zelma and Daniel Millman of Kansas City, Missouri.

The family would like to thank the excellent staff at Belcaro Animal Hospital for their care through the years, with special appreciation for his outstanding primary care veterinarian, Dr. Mike Herman, who showed unlimited kindness, dedication and generosity toward Gabe and his mother. In addition, they would like to thank Dr. Matthew Chavkin of the Veterinary Referral Center of Colorado for restoring Gabriel's vision through cataract surgery so he could better enjoy what turned out to be the final, precious months of his life.

Donations were made to The Misha May Foundation in Gabe's Memory by friends Barry & Karla, Linda & Rich, and Judi.

Deaf Dog Picnic

by Lorraine May, M.A.

Executive Director and Head Trainer

The Misha May Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dog and cat rescue

mutts in safe homes always

http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/

mishamayfoundation@gmail.com

PO Box 151166

Lakewood, CO 80215-1166

303-239-0382



Deaf Dog Picnic



I have attended the Deaf Dog Picnic for many years as a holistic resource for owners. I am able to share helpful information about using Flower Essences, energy work like Reiki, and Animal Communication. I can offer positive solutions to training questions and behavior problems.



This year it was held again at Best Friends in Wheat Ridge, Colorado on September 11, 2010. There were so many wonderful deaf dogs including many adopted from rescues, such as Aussie Shepherds, Border Collies, Boxers, Bulldogs, Cattle Dogs (one from New Hope Cattle Dog Rescue that I had the pleasure of meeting), Chihuahuas, Chinese Cresteds, Dalmatians, Great Danes, English Cockers, English Spaniels, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, and unique mixes.



Deaf dogs demonstrated Agility, Flyball and Frisbee with championship style and absolute joy. Other resources included Val & Tom Parks, Pet Psychic / Pet Astrologer, and trainers from http://www.onlinedogcoach.com/. One highlight was Indy, a sweet young white deaf mix, who demonstrated her many cute tricks including 'get in the box'! Indy had been rescued about a year ago from living locked in a closet - the people didn't know what to do with a young, stubborn, noisy dog. They had no idea she was deaf, and when they found out did not know what to do. Discovering her was truly like discovering a diamond in the rough.



Deaf dogs used to be routinely and unceremoniously destroyed. They were (and still are in unfortunate situations) often labeled stubborn, stupid, inattentive, untrainable, and hopeless. If you hear of a dog like this, please be sure to check their hearing.



Rhonda, Champion of Deaf Dogs, always says, "Your dog is a dog first, his breed second, his personality third, and being deaf last."



Today deaf dogs find their way into many people's hearts instead. Hundreds of deaf dogs are looking for committed, responsible owners. Please visit the Adopt page at http://www.SpiritofDeafDogs.org/.

If you want to know more about deaf dogs, want to help deaf dogs, or know a deaf dog in danger, please refer to the following websites.

www.SpiritofDeafDogs.org

http://www.d2care.org/

www.pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/deafdogs

http://www.handspeak.com/

http://www.deafdogs.org/

http://www.deafdogatlas.org/

Zeb's Magic / Spay - Neuter Project / ?Trained? ?Off Leash?

by Lorraine May, Executive Director and Head Trainer

The Misha May Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dog and cat rescue

mutts in safe homes always

http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/

mishamayfoundation@gmail.com

PO Box 151166Lakewood, CO 80215-1166

303-239-0382

Zeb’s Magic

Zeb is magical. Everyone who knows him knows that. He saved a little dog today, September 10, and I helped him.

Each day when I take a walk in the park my most important decision is which dog to take with me. This morning I had a very strong sense that it was Zeb. So I listened to my intuition.

Zeb is an 11 year old neutered male Golden Retriever that found me while wandering in the mountains at 1.5 years old. He had come right through his electric fence (in the mountains where we had bears, coyotes and mountains lions) thank goodness, instead of ending up as lunch. His family gave him to me. Truly though, he seemed sent by Misha (the black lab mix namesake of The Misha May Foundation) – I was having a hard time without her.

As we entered the park, I saw a little black dog running around, sometimes in the park, sometimes in the street. I decided to investigate, of course. There were other people around but I find that even dog lovers aren’t sure what to do, how to get the dog, or what to do with him once they have him.

As we approached, I could see he was not going to come to me. He didn’t flee, but he stayed out of reach. Because he was small and calm, appeared healthy and friendly, I decided to see if Zeb would be a more benign ambassador. I had no sooner stepped a little farther away, than the little guy approached Zeb and they became fast friends.

Then there was humping – by the little guy. Uh-oh, not neutered. Here is probably one key to his wandering. The others, I found out later, were a broken fence and a marking habit which relegated him to being an outside dog.

Although there was no collar or ID, through detective work, I eventually located the owner the same day. He was grateful for my care and was open to finding a solution to keeping the little guy safe. 1) of course, fix the fence 2) purchase Velcro ‘nappies for dogs’ which cause the dog to urinate on himself – not as pleasant as marking 3) neuter.

Neutering helps with both marking and wandering. When I suggested low cost possibilities, he was surprised that his own vet had not referred him to Planned Pethood Plus at 4170 Tennyson Street, Denver, 80212, 303-433-3291 or MaxFund Animal Wellness Center at 1000 Inca Street, Denver, 80204, 303-595-0532.

My personal belief is that in order to stop pet overpopulation, spaying and neutering need to be FREE for EVERYONE’S pets. WHY ISN’T IT?

Please help us with our project by sending the following to mishamayfoundation@gmail.com:
1) What low cost spay / neuter services are you aware of – please send the complete name, address and contact information of vet; weight and age of dog or cat, cost of spay or neuter surgery.
2) What did your dog's surgery cost - please send the complete name, address and contact information of vet; weight and age of dog or cat, cost of spay or neuter surgery.

Note to Owner with dog off leash in a park that is not an off leash park: Your dog is NOT trained off leash if he chases geese. AND allowing him to be off leash untrained, reinforces his experience of ‘I’m off leash and you can’t get me’.

He's Not My Dog / Congrats to Owner

by Lorraine May, Executive Director and Head Trainer
The Misha May Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dog and cat rescue
mutts in safe homes always
www.mishamayfoundation.org
mishamayfoundation@gmail.com
PO Box 151166
Lakewood, CO 80215-1166
303-239-0382

“He’s Not My Dog!”

I stood up for a medium sized black mutt this morning, September 9, 2010, at 8:30 am in a city park. In doing so, I tried to accomplish three things: 1) let the dog know someone cared about him 2) let the woman know that people witnessed her actions and 3) inform the woman that there are better methods.

As I was taking my walk, I heard shouting in what is normally a very quiet park. It was a dark haired woman roughly shaking this black dog by his choke collar, causing his front legs to leave the ground repeatedly and his rear end to jerk around.

I was compelled to respond since her actions could not only hurt his neck and stress him, but his experiences, therefore his associations, with the park, walking on a leash, dogs and people could become extremely negative. Each successive walk could include increasing amounts of stress, followed by punishment.

I wasn’t the only person upset. It was very evident that others nearby were affected as well since they moved away from her and gave her plenty of space.

I breathed calmly and deeply, softened my belly, and held my focus of sharing helpful information, as they approached, now walking quickly. I said matter-of-factly and calmly, “You know, I teach a class that includes other kinds of training techniques so you don’t have to do that.” She replied that he wasn’t her dog or her responsibility anyway. “But, you are walking him, so he is now.” Well”, she said, “he shouldn’t be around other dogs and I don’t have to worry about that.” And she quickly exited the park.

She chose to walk him in the park where there are, of course, OTHER DOGS. Then she punished him for not knowing how to act around other dogs. She did not teach him anything, except, to worry when dogs are around and to expect rough treatment from her.

If anyone is training, walking or pet sitting your dogs, please find out what they do when you aren’t looking. Ask them how they help your dog cope with difficult situations. Do they punish or do they teach?

Congrats to Owner: lone male black lab wandering in O’Kane Park with no visible ID. I don’t know what caused this dog to stray, but the owner’s appearance in her car remedied the situation before I could even get back to my car to get a leash. Good work!

Rainey at Misha May's Understanding Dogs class, Pet Station, Denver

Bach Flower Essences - are they effective?

by Lorraine May, MA

For decades the Bach Flower Essences have been used alone, and in conjunction with other treatments, to heal. Yet, you will still hear people express doubt about their efficacy. Some people simply will not use anything but traditional approaches, and that is certainly their choice. But others have tried BFR and have been disappointed. I would like to point out some common misunderstandings that I have become aware of.

I will focus mainly on the use of Rescue Remedy, the five essence combination used for emergency situations, because it is the most widely known. An emergency situation, by the way, can be anything you deem one - from a car crash to fear of public speaking. The traumatic physiology of your body is present, whether you are mentally judging it as irrational or not! RR works exceptionally well along with the other appropriate emergency treatments one may require.

One problem area is with the dose. The information is generally shared in this way: ‘The standard dose for Rescue Remedy is four drops. Put it directly on your tongue, put it in a beverage, put in your dog’s water.’ Simple, isn‘t it? Yes, but this is only partial information. Four drops of RR can, and should, be repeated every 10 minutes or until a change is seen. The vibrations of the plant essences need ample time and dosage to harmoniously influence the body’s energy, thus raising the vibration and reinstating calm.

Usually, the subject will clearly demonstrate the exact amount of time and dosage necessary! For example, when I found a finch, stunned by a car and left in the highway, I held her in a paper towel, administering one drop of RR (for small animals) every now and again for about 20 minutes. With each drop, she responded by swallowing and moving a little more. I kept administering one drop over and over again to her beak, until finally she stood up, looked at me, and flew off to the top of a tree.

In contrast, a baby robin I found recently, needed two days of RR, before alerting me that it was her time to fly again. Initially, she received RR straight from the stock bottle, and then diluted in water, along with a safe place to rest away from curious cats, dogs, foxes, coyotes, etc. She flew first onto my finger and then a fair distance away, hopefully to join her family and fully recover from her fall into my yard.

Additional treatment was required following the appropriate use of Rescue Remedy, in the case of a beautiful black Lab completely down with bloat. I constantly administered RR directly into her mouth while waiting for a stretcher. She regained strength and focus before her successful surgery, communicating to me with her knowing and grateful eyes.

Another common misunderstanding is that RR will be a panacea for whatever ails. Too often, people stop before investigating the other 38 individual essences, each of which has a specific focus and vibratory effect, as well as a powerful indication for underlying issues and long standing problems. Relying solely upon RR will inevitably bring disappointment.

My final success story is a small snake (I have many who live under my deck) who had the misfortune of being slightly puppy-handled by one of my foster dogs in our yard. After carrying the snake to a safe spot, I realized that he wasn’t moving at all. Was this his defense or had he expired? I ran for my RR. I administered drops near his mouth and along his body, not really sure what was the best approach. Still, he did not give any sign of being alive. I left him to recover after I had done all I could. When I returned a short time later to check on him, he had crawled away, hopefully to sun another day.

For a Flower Essence class or consultation, email mishamayfoundation@gmail.com.

Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know

I highly recommend reading Inside of a Dog by Alexandra Horowitz. Her approach is from the perspective of a dog lover as well as a scientist. Unlike the many authors who present inaccurate guesses about what is going on with our best friends, Horowitz provides personal experience backed up with scientific understandings.

Pumpernickel, her canine soul mate, is all dog and all best friend to her human. You can't help loving her vicariously, and being grateful that Horowitz knew her so well and presented her so respectfully and lovingly, yet honestly. They seemed to understand each other as well as any two beings of different species could.

Some of her most interesting chapter titles include From the Dog's Point of Nose, Unwolfy, Whimpers, growls, squeaks and chuckles, What a dog knows, and It either fits in the mouth or it's too big for the mouth.

Horowitz's writing style is invitingly informative. Besides shedding light on the human-canine bond, and educating us about canine senses, she entertainingly explains concepts such as attention seeking, theory of mind, telling time and reading us.

I came away from this book loving dogs more, if that is possible, and taking them less for granted. There are so many reasons why they are our best friend; this book provides scientific evidence along with celebration.

Tell Discovery you won't watch Sarah Palin, wolf killer

Tell Discovery, You Betcha, We Won't Watch Until Sarah Palin Is Gone!

The number to call is 571-262-4899 to ask Discovery to reject the Sarah Palin, wolf killer, program.

A Discovery Channel representative returned my call expressing their acknowledgement of my objections to Sarah Palin. She mentioned that my polite message was appreciated. They are not so moved by the many nasty ones they are receiving.

Here's a petition I got in an email through defenders of wildlife.. has already gotten like 60,000 since I signed this morning. Graphic photos - I hold my breath, try not to see them, and sign. secure.defenders.org

Tell Discovery that Sarah Palin, wolf killer, is not someone you would watch!

Tell Discovery, You Betcha, We Won't Watch Until Sarah Palin Is Gone!

The number to call is 571-262-4899 to ask Discovery to reject the Sarah Palin, wolf killer, program.

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=113351438674998

A Discovery Channel representative returned my call expressing their acknowledgement of my objections to Sarah Palin. She mentioned that my polite message was appreciated. They are not so moved by the many nasty ones they are receiving.