MARLEY & YOU!

Since November 2011, when his foster mother, Carla, was forced to move, beautiful MARLEY has been living at the Canine Rescue & Adoption League (C.A.R.L.) of Ventura County. We're hoping one of you can change that. Carla says that Marley is "big and strong but extremely loving and gentle. He had do be taught how to bark by my girl pit, and even then he rarely barked. He never destroyed anything in the house or dug in the yard.  He got along great with my girl pit and even my sister's male Yorkie, who lived with us. I am attaching pictures of him from the C.A.R.L. website, # 3731. He would  make someone a wonderful pet if they gave him a chance." Carla would welcome calls or email from anyone interested in him. Her number is 805/302-8428) ckryhalesq@msn.com"

ps - We met Carla at Barnes & Noble in Thousand Oaks where she works and where we had our book signing on August 3.

TANNER - AN 'AMERICAN DOG'!

Had to share the great news that Tanner is featured in the summer issue of American Dog Magazine. There a full page Q & A story about GIMME SHELTER (p. 59) and a review (see below). The magazine is chock full of cool stories, helpful information and great dog photos - it's the 'beauty contest' issues - so give it a look.

by Nancy Allen, AMERICAN DOG MAGAZINE

TANNER COMES THROUGH...TWICE!

We all know that dogs are man's best friend but, the past few weeks, Tanner has been going above and beyond. On Saturday, August 3, he was the star of our hugely successful Barnes & Noble book signing in Thousand Oaks. He was friendly, sweet and so well-behaved, even when other dogs cruised by. People adored him and stopped to trade dog stories and to buy GIMME SHELTER. 

Then on Sunday, August 4, Tanner was back at it again, helping me serve as Grand Marshal and kicking off the fundraising walk at the American Cancer Society 'Bark For Life' event. Luckily it was overcast and cool, so he didn't poop out on a very short stroll. As a reward for his PR efforts, Tanner got to scarf down some rare roast beef and to cuddle all night on the bed. By popular request, here's the text of the welcome speech we gave.

"Dealing with cancer is challenging on many levels.  It is stressful, it's frightening but it can also empowering. One thing that helps us cope with the struggle is the support of our friends, our families, caring strangers and our dogs. Given that this Malibu's first annual BARK FOR LIFE fundraising walk, I should say especially our dogs. As someone who has grappled with cancer and other serious issues, I've seen firsthand the difference a 4-legged therapist can make. That's why I'm here today...to speak about how dogs help comfort and heal us when we need it most.

1) THEY ARE CHEAPER THAN DOCTORS AND THERAPISTS, MORE FUN AND ALWAYS ON CALL.-- That's why they make such great healers. We know they will be there for us no matter what. They don't care if we have insurance, and for most of us, their 'fee' is some cuddles and a rawhide treat or two…or five.

2) DOGS DON'T JUDGE - Except when it comes squeaky toys, they don't judge. They don't care if you lose weight, gain weight, have more hair, less hair or no hair. They don't care about our jobs, the cars we drive or  the clothes we wear.  To our dogs, we have no flaws. We're perfect just the way we are. They love us because that's what they do. Period. All they ask from us in return is a little exercise and affection. if only all of our two-legged pals were so easy and accommodating.

3) DOG ARE PLAYFUL - Regardless of what's going on in the world or our bodies - if the stock market's down, or Dwight Howard ditches us for Houston, or Congress is behaving like
unruly kindergartners, or we're feeling like we've been run over by a cement truck - our dogs are always up for play. We can take a lesson from them and when things get stressful, or seem hopeless, we can go for a ride and stick our head out the car window, or go for a run, a walk or just sit on a bench in the sun. Your dog never looks at you and says 'We really need to work more'.

4) DOGS ARE WISE! - They live in harmony with nature. They don't care about social trends, how many Twitter followers or Facebook friends you have, how much your movie grossed, how many books you've sold.  They have no list of  'should's. They sleep when they're tired, eat when they're hungry (except pugs and labs, who eat all the time), play when they need exercise. They don't worry (well, maybe just a little around dinner time) and they never give advice. They don't dwell on the past, or try to control the future. They are fully PRESENT. Every day, they get, up wag their tails and go about their lives, doing their very best, living in the moment, every moment. They have one message: be joyous, be present, and LET'S PLAY! or as Laura so aptly put it, let's BARK FOR LIFE."

Lou & Tanner with Bark for Life organizer Laura Leonard and her rescue dog Barkley.

FIRE YOUR TRAINER, AND GET A DOG!

Following hard on the heals of our last posting, the L.A. Times ran a piece 'Can Pets Lead Owners to Health? , echoing our claim that walking your dog can help improve both canine and human fitness. 

                                                                                ~~~~~

In the blatant self-promotion category, this weekend will be a busy one for Tanner, Eugenie and me. On Saturday, August 3, from 11:30-12:30 we'll be signing books at Barnes & Noble in Thousand Oaks, The Promenade, 160 S. Westlake Blvd., Thousand Oaks, CA 91362, (805) 446-2820.

On Sunday, August 4, we'll be serving as 'Grand Marshals' of Malibu's first annual American Cancer Society 'Bark For Life' fundraising walk. It will take place at Legacy Park in the Civic Center. Registration starts at 10:00 and the event will kick off at 11:00 with a speech from yours truly.

Lou, Eugenie and Tanner @ Legacy Park, Malibu

'HOT FUN IN THE SUMMERTIME' - A CAUTION

While I love Sly and the Family Stone's take on kicking back in summer, for lots of people, it offers a chance to bike,  hike, swim, kayak, golf, ploy tennis, and to make good on that New Year's vow to finally exercise and shed some pounds. 

If you're still having trouble finding the motivation, walking your dog might be the answer. Weight-loss guru Bob Harper says an early morning, low-intenstiy stroll on an empty stomach can rev up your metabolism. It's also great for bonding with your pooch and Bowser's kidneys will really appreciate the relief. One caution though. While sunny skies might be great for lounging by the pool, summer temps and high humidity can lead to heatstroke in humans and their 4-legged trainers. Responsible dog guardians should learn how to recognize and avoid heatstroke. (from GIMME SHELTER - 'Dogs & Heatstroke')
                                                                           ~ ~ ~ ~
 Dogs regulate their temperature chiefly through panting. Heatstroke occurs on hot, humid days when they can no longer maintain a normal body temperature of approximately 101 degrees F. It often occurs when a dog is left outside on a hot day in direct sunshine or confined in a car, kennel or crate. 
It can strike suddenly, and if your dog's temperature rises to 105 F or above, you must act immediately. If not, his internal organs will begin to breakdown, and he may die. Even if you are able to lower his temperature, he may still suffer irreversible internal damage.

The symptoms of heatstroke include: Rapid panting, Warm, dry skin, Pale gums and a bright red tongue, Anxious expression or disorientation (blank staring, an inability to respond to its name), Increased heart rate, thick, clinging saliva, vomiting, difficulty breathing, Collapse, coma and death follow shortly thereafter.

If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke: It’s urgent to quickly reduce the dog’s body temperature. To do this: Remove your dog from the car, kennel or wherever he was confined and get him to a place with cool, circulating air, like an air conditioned room. If possible, immerse him in a cool (not cold) bath, or hose him down. DO NOT leave wet towels on your dog and DO NOT use very cold water--both can prevent your dog from cooling himself. Ice packs may cause hypothermia.To promote blood flow, gently massage the skin and flex the legs. While you’re working to cool him, it’s essential that he be transported to a veterinary hospital as quickly as possible. Even if you manage to reduce your dog's temperature, take him to the vet for a thorough exam, since serious internal damage to your dog's organs might have taken place.

To prevent heatstroke: On hot, humid days, or days with strong sun, NEVER leave your dog in an unattended car. Keep your dog indoors during the heat of the day in a well-ventilated or air-conditioned room. If your dog must be outside, make sure he has cold water, shelter and shade. Since dogs really don't know their limits, try and keep your dog's activity to a minimum. If you must exercise your dog, do it in the early morning or evening when temperatures are generally cooler.

Dogs Prone to Heatstroke Include: Young puppies, older dogs, overweight dogs, sick dogs or dogs recovering from illness or surgery. Short-faced breeds, like Bulldogs, Shar Peis, Boston Terriers, and Pugs. Cold climate dogs like Malamutes, Huskies, Great Pyrenees, and Newfoundlands. Double-coated breeds such as Pomeranians, Samoyeds, Collies, Shelties, Akitas, and Chow Chows.

Resources: Dr. Howie Baker, DVM,   American Veterinary Medical Association, Christine Cadena, “Canine Protection: A Guide to Prevention and Treatment of Heat Exhaustion in Dogs”

Lola & Tanner

SHELTER 'KILL' RATES DROP IN L.A. - VAMPIRES FOR RESCUE DOGS - HOMELESS HEROISM

According to an article in the Los Angeles Daily News, 'kill' rates plummeted this year at County Animal Care facilities, and are approaching a decade low. "Los Angeles Animal Services was on track to have put down 4,00 fewer cats and dogs in the fiscal year that ended June 30 compare to the previous year, with final numbers due out next week. "The city is poised for its best year of reducing shelter deaths and increasing the live-save rate since the city established it no-kill goal a decade ago," said LAAS General Manager Brenda Barnette in a statement. "I believe this success belongs to all pet loving Angelenos." That means groups like No Kill L.A. and their supporters like Kristen Bauer Von Straten who plays fetching, feisty vampire 'Pam' on HBO's True Blood and stars in the latest NKLA ad.

Kristen Bauer Von Straten as 'Pam' on HBO's True Blood

Finally, if you're a member of the 'dogs are great but people stink' club, it might be time to rethink your misanthropy in light of a story by L.A. Times reporter Bob Pool about Martha Aguel, a homeless woman with two dogs, who rescued a North Hollywood man's lsot beagle and then declined a reward, saying she was just "glad he had his dog back". With help from the grateful dog owner, County officials are trying to get Martha and her two dogs, Chino & Nina, permanent shelter.

HOMETOWN HEROES - 'COMPASSION FOR ALL CREATURES'

Summer...a time of long, lazy days spent lounging at the beach or pool, eating junk food and reading trashy novels (or moving dog books!). Hah! Tanner, Eugenie and I have been busier than ever trying to stay on top of work, book business and social events. That's probably why we forgot to trumpet the fabulous article about GIMME SHELTER in the July-August issue of Malibu Times Magazine. Writer Michael Aushenker's piece was very flattering and  the photos by our dear friend and ace photographer, Roxanne McCann, make us look like movie stars. That's no great feat with Eugenie and Tanner, who always look terrific ,but I sure needed her magic. Roxanne began her career doing stills on film sets, and learned photography at the side of Academy Award-winning Cinematographers. Her photographs have been published around the world, and her fine art is in private collections in many countries. If you're thinking about doing photos for a big event - a graduation, anniversary, wedding, book signing or just to have some great shots - you should give Rox a call.

Lou, Eugenie & Tanner @ Diesel Books, Malibu (photo by Roxanne McCann)
~~~~~

As someone who cares about all animals, pets and their wilderness cousins, I was heartened to read about the Malibu City Council's vote to oppose the sale and use of rodentcides, which often harm our resident raccoons, possums, squirrels, bobcats, coyotes and birds. In explaining his support, a local rabbi, Levi Cunin, offered this quote from well-known book on Jewish mysticism, Tomer Devorah, by Rabbi Moshe Cordevero: “in addition… one’s compassion must spread over all creatures. Do not humiliate them, do not destroy them, for the Higher wisdom has compassion on all creatures, and its compassion spreads forth over all of creation, the inanimate creations (such as minerals) the vegetative creations (all plants) living creatures (all animals, mammals etc.), and the speaking creatures (humans). And for this reason our sages cautioned us regarding disrespecting our food source. This matter is noteworthy, for just as the Higher wisdom, does not waste any existence, and everything is made from there (the higher wisdom) as it is written “You have made everything with wisdom” so shall be the mercy of man on all of His workings, blessed be the source”. Amen.

GRAZIE, AL SANTILLO, OUR BIGGEST FAN

As you know, Tanner, Eugenie and I often use this blog to thank friends, family and supporters who promote GIMME SHELTER, animal rescue and other things we consider important and fun. Well, Al Santillo, a master baker from my hometown of Elizabeth NJ, deserves kudos as our biggest fan. Although our families lived in the Peterstown neighborhood (the Burg for locals) and did business together, that doesn't explain why Al, who's busy running his family's terrific pizzeria and bakery, would make the time and effort to share the book with his friends and customers. Next to Diesel, our local bookseller, Al has sold more copies than any other person or outlet. So, when you're in back East and looking for a great, award-winning pizza, and some fun conversation, stop by Santillo's and tell Al Tanner and Lou sent you.

The Maestro at work. Grazie, Al.

$$ FOR MUTTS, PASTA-EATING DOGS & OTHER NEWS

Between book events, working at Probation and workouts, things get hectic around our place. Maybe that's why we've neglected to mention that the Gimme Shelter Campaign recently made our 2nd and 3rd official donations to the Linda Blair Worldheart Foundation and the St. Martin's Animal Foundation. For new visitors, we've promised to donate 10% of the profits from GIMME SHELTER to various animal rescue groups. We're at 3 and counting, so keep buying books and we'll keep sharing the proceeds.

Pit-Lab pups being fostered by Sky Valencia of St. Martin's Animals Foundation.
Interested? Contact: skyvalencia99@gmail.com

                                                                        ~~~~~ 

With all of those cute kitty YouTube videos, it's tough to keep current on dog news so here are two stories that might be of interest.

- An L.A. Times' piece from June 22 detailed the protests by China animals lovers upset with mistreatment of stranded dolphins and the traditional Yulin dog meat festival. In a country not noted for its human rights concerns, it's heartening to hear that people are willing to speak up about perceived animal cruelty.

- The April issue of Scientific American ran a piece by Kate Wong outlining scientists' theories that adaptation to humans starchy diet may have lead to the domestication of dogs and cats. I love Tanner but he is NOT getting my pizza!

SPAY & NEUTER FOR L.A. PIT BULLS - FREE, and GOOD KARMA!

Thanks to Karma Rescue, Los Angeles owners of Pit Bulls and Pit Bulls mixes can spay or neuter their dogs free of charge. 'Fixing' your dog can curb aggression and will help reduce the population of unwanted animals. Tanner hopes that lots of people will take advantage of this great deal. He's 'fixed' and still a, handsome, buff boy.  To learn more or make an appointment (there are clinics on both the East and West sides of town) contact Karma Rescue (310) 512-7833 or email Karma at info@karmarescue.org. The offer is good until the end of 2013.

Tanner and his peeps near the Malibu Library

'THE PAW PROJECT'

On Saturday, June 8, we attended a local screening of The Paw Project, a documentary film about DVM Jennifer Conrad and her efforts to ban animal declawing. Like many people in the packed house at the Malibu Film Society, I had no idea just how brutal and inhumane the practice is. I've only had one cat, Blanche, whose story kicks off GIMME SHELTER. Ironically, she was a Scottish Fold that looked amazingly like the cat on The Paw Project poster. She had been declawed when we got her and her gait always seemed off, as if it hurt her to walk. Know I know why. If you'd like to learn more about the efforts to ban this sanctioned mutilation, visit The Paw Project website.

Blanche

                                                                         ~~~

On a softer note, a friend recently sent me a terrific piece 'What Shamu Taught Me About A Happy Marriage' by Amy Sutherland, that appeared in the NY Times column 'On Modern Love'. If you love animals, or just have a headstrong mate, here's a taste.

AS I wash dishes at the kitchen sink, my husband paces behind me, irritated. "Have you seen my keys?" he snarls, then huffs out a loud sigh and stomps from the room with our dog, Dixie, at his heels, anxious over her favorite human's upset. In the past I would have been right behind Dixie. I would have turned off the faucet and joined the hunt while trying to soothe my husband with bromides like, "Don't worry, they'll turn up." But that only made him angrier, and a simple case of missing keys soon would become a full-blown angst-ridden drama starring the two of us and our poor nervous dog.

     Now, I focus on the wet dish in my hands. I don't turn around. I don't say a word. I'm using a technique I learned from a dolphin trainer. I love my husband. He's well read, adventurous and does a hysterical rendition of a northern Vermont accent that still cracks me up after 12 years of marriage.

But he also tends to be forgetful, and is often tardy and mercurial. He hovers around me in the kitchen asking if I read this or that piece in The New Yorker when I'm trying to concentrate on the simmering pans. He leaves wadded tissues in his wake. He suffers from serious bouts of spousal deafness but never fails to hear me when I mutter to myself on the other side of the house. "What did you say?" he'll shout. These minor annoyances are not the stuff of separation and divorce, but in sum they began to dull my love for Scott. I wanted — needed — to nudge him a little closer to perfect, to make him into a mate who might annoy me a little less, who wouldn't keep me waiting at restaurants, a mate who would be easier to love.

     So, like many wives before me, I ignored a library of advice books and set about improving him. By nagging, of course, which only made his behavior worse: he'd drive faster instead of slower; shave less frequently, not more; and leave his reeking bike garb on the bedroom floor longer than ever.

We went to a counselor to smooth the edges off our marriage. She didn't understand what we were doing there and complimented us repeatedly on how well we communicated. I gave up. I guessed she was right — our union was better than most — and resigned myself to stretches of slow-boil resentment and occasional sarcasm.

     Then something magical happened. For a book I was writing about a school for exotic animal trainers, I started commuting from Maine to California, where I spent my days watching students do the seemingly impossible: teaching hyenas to pirouette on command, cougars to offer their paws for a nail clipping, and baboons to skateboard. I listened, rapt, as professional trainers explained how they taught dolphins to flip and elephants to paint. Eventually it hit me that the same techniques might work on that stubborn but lovable species, the American husband. READ MORE

NKLA - 400 LIVES SAVED!

Last month we told you about the NKLA-Best Friends mega-adoption at the La Brea Tar Pits. The numbers are in and 400 cats and dogs found love and homes during the the 2-day event. If you're thinking about a rescue dog or cat, maybe give the NKLA video a look.  

Eugenie and Tanner at the NKLA mega-adoption

India's WOOF MAGAZINE and GIMME SHELTER

Woke up this morning to find that WOOF, a digital dog magazine from India, yes India, just published a piece I wrote for them entitled 'What A Bullie!'. The story (p. 14-16), which is based on material from the GIMME SHELTER sidebars, offers readers some useful tips on adopting and caring for a Pit Bull or any shelter dog. Following the article, which has several great photos of Tanner, there's a full-page profile of the book. Thanks to Nirav for contacting me and running the story.

Tanner, Eugenie and Lou (photo by Roxanne McCann)

SGT. STUBBY - PIT BULL WAR HERO

 A few month's back I wrote a short piece on Stubby, America's first and most decorated war dog who happened to be a Pit Bull (no surprise to those of us who live with them). With Bullies once again getting hammered in the press, here's a fuller picture of this amazing solider.  

Sgt Stubby, was the most decorated war dog of World War I and the only dog to be promoted to sergeant through combat. One day he appeared at Yale Field in New Haven, Connecticut, while a group of soldiers were training, stopping to make friends with men as they drilled. Corporal Robert Conroy, developed a fondness for the dog. He named him Stubby because of his short legs. When it became time for the outfit to ship out, Conroy hid Stubby on board the troop ship. To keep the dog, the private taught him to salute his commanding officers warming their hearts to him. Stubby served with the 102nd Infantry, 26th (Yankee) Division in the trenches in France for 18 months and participated in four offensives and 18 battles. The loud noise of the bombs and gun fire did not bother him. He was never content to just stay in the trenches but eagerly went out, searched and found wounded soldiers. Stubby entered combat on February 5, 1918 at Chemin Des Dames, north of Soissons, and was under constant fire, day and night for over a month. In April 1918, during a raid to take Schieprey, Stubby was wounded in the foreleg by the retreating Germans throwing hand grenades. He was sent to the rear for convalescence, and, as he had done on the front, was able to improve morale. When he recovered from his wounds, Stubby returned to the trenches. 

"DON'T BLAME THE DOGS...BLAME PEOPLE"

A few days ago 29-year-old Alex Jackson was arrested and charged with murder in the death of Pamela Devitt, 63, the Lancaster, CA woman who was fatally mauled by a pack of Jackson's dogs with a history of previous attacks. Despite his wife death, Devitt's husband, didn't blame the dogs involved, or demonize the breed. Her husband told KCAL-TV he blamed the dogs' owner for what happened. "I do not blame the dogs. I don't blame pit bulls," Ben Devitt said. "I blame people who don't take responsibility for their animals." For more details, check out the Huffington Post report.

                                                              ~~~~
When I wrote about our last book signing at Bank of Books a few weeks back, I forgot to thank some of the friends who stopped by to show an share some love. Since it's better late than never, a big 'Thanks' to - David & Terry, Annette & Jasmine, Carl, Robert, Zari, Margaret & Ryan, Karen, Gary & Eleanor, Jake and Melissa. Eugenie, Tanner I I really appreciate your support. 

Dexter & Tanner: Pitbulls are inherently dangerous. Really?
~~~~~

If you are looking to keep your dog healthy, happy and under control, consider dispensing with that retractable lead and using something that offers more control and safety. In an article in Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan's online newsletter, Jon Bastian writes: "There are three big issues with retractable leads, the first of which is safety. Since they can effectively allow your dog to run for twenty or more feet before the end of the line, they allow your dog to build up a lot of speed. Remember “force equals mass times acceleration” from high school physics? Well, give even a small dog a twenty foot head start, and they can build up enough speed to pull you off your feet, break the lead, or yank the handle right out of your hand. That last situation can be particularly disastrous, since the handle will then retract on the lead, and the sound and motion of that big hunk of plastic suddenly whizzing up from behind can make your dog think something is chasing it, inspiring it to run faster and farther. 

BE YOUR DOG'S BRAIN

Lots of you know from firsthand experience that dogs have wonderful spirits, terrific instincts and delicate, accurate emotional radar. Amazing as they are, when interacting with people and other animals, they rely on us, their human partners, to keep them out of harm's way and help them become canine 'good citizens'. As my wife, Eugenie, says, "We have to be their brains." Socializing and training are important for all dogs but especially for 'dominant breed' dogs (Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Mastiffs, Chow Chows, Jindos, Shar Peis, Dogo Argentino, Cane Corso, Presa Canario and any breed with a history of fighting) that too often find themselves unfairly targeted by the media and misguided legislators. Tanner was already a sweet, docile well-behaved dog but working with trainer Tony Rollins helped make him even more responsive and fun to be with. 

7-year-old Jasmine East relaxes with Tanner, our rescue Pit Bull, at last week's book signing

If your canine buddy exhibits unwanted behavior like barking, biting, carsickness, aggression towards other animals or humans, separation anxiety, or overly rough play, first check with your vet to make sure he or she isn’t sick. Once your vet rules out health problems, you might want to get help from a qualified trainer, behaviorist, or a veterinarian with behavioral training. Here are some tips about finding professional help from GIMME SHELTER.

      TRAINERS - Education, hands-on experience and methods can vary greatly from trainer to trainer. “Certified” trainers should be recognized by an independent body, not merely by a school or program they paid to attend. The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (ADPT) offers certification through the Certification Council for Profession Dog Trainers. The Professional Dog Trainer’s Council, www.ccpdt.org, offers a list of certified dog trainers. 

     BEHAVIORISTS - Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists (CAABs) and Associate Applied Animal Behaviorists (ACAABs) are professionals with supervised graduate training in animal behavior, biology and zoology at accredited universities.  As experts with both academic and hands-on knowledge, they can determine how and why your pet’s behavior is abnormal and help teach you how to alter the unwanted behavior. For a list of behaviorists, visit www.certifiedanimalbehaviorists.com. 

        VETERINARIANS WITH BEHAVIORAL TRAINING - Some CAABs are veterinarians who have completed a residency in animal behavior and earned certification from the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists. 

     Before Committing to A Trainer or Training Facility ask your veterinarian and fellow dog owners for recommendations. Interview several trainers or facilities. In addition to comparing prices, inquire about their methods, training and experience. Many cities offer basic obedience classes through their Parks and Recreation Departments. If you are considering group training, ask to monitor a class before signing up. Check to see if the trainer works well with both people and dogs. Look for trainers who treat you and your dog with respect and who reward positive behavior, and avoid those who prefer aversion and intimidation. Cross off any trainer who refuses to provide references.
[Sources: Tony Rollins, Tony Rollins K-9 Academy, Rob Lerner CPDT-KSA, ASPCA, “Finding Professional Help”]

REMEMBRANCE & GRATITUDE

Dogs serve as a daily reminder to live gratefully, and gracefully in the moment. Offer a bowl of kibble, table scraps, a romp at the beach, a visit to dog park, a new squeaky toy or just a few kind words and it's a safe bet that you'll be whacked with a whipping tail, or slurped across the mug with a sandpaper tongue. How often do we, their two-legged partners, match their joy or appreciation? I mention this in honor of Anthony Battista Greco, a friend who passed away last week after a long struggle with lung problems. 

If Tony were a  dog, he's have been one of those happy oversized breeds (my neighbor's Bernese Mountain Dog, Bruin comes to mind) that bowl you over with the force of their good nature. Tony was a talented musician, director, writer and entrepreneur and an amazing husband, father of four and devoted brother. If we get to choose our heaven, I see him playing piano with George Harrison (Tony loved the Beatles) hosting a raucous, never-ending party for all of the fabulous artists that have gone before him, and any fun-loving strangers, too.

                                                                                  ~~~~

This post is about saying 'Thanks, Grazie, Danke, Merci, Domo Arigato' and so we'd be remiss not to mention Bank of Books, our intrepid West Malibu booksellers who hosted a signing for me and Tanner last Saturday. It was a gorgeous day and we had a ball chatting with friends and strangers who stopped to buy Gimme Shelter and have us ink their copies. Volunteers Ellen Naumann, and Andy from the Agoura Hills Animal Care facility were there with information about the shelter's work helping dogs, cats and even rabbits in need. 'Skittles' the miracle dog was there, too. After a host of surgeries to fix a severe leg deformity (performed 'pro bono'c courtesy of Malibu Pet Companions) the brave little guy is 100%. Now all he need is someone to step up and give him a full-time home.

Ellen, a respected dog trainer, had just started at Agoura in early 2009 when Tanner was brought in by a kindly woman who found him roaming on Las Posas Road in Camarillo. Eugenie and I always wanted to thank her for saving him and on Saturday we got the chance when Nancy stopped by to introduce herself. She remembered Tanner as a cowering stray, all head with an emaciated body.  She and Ellen were both thrilled so see him looking so healthy and happy.

Lou & Tanner w Agoura volunteer Andy & 'Dusty' (also a rescue dog)

Trainer & volunteer Ellen Naumann w 'Skittles' and Tanner

Lou, Eugenie and Tanner @ Bank of Books, 5-18-13

HARRY HAMLIN LOVES 'GIMME SHELTER'!

Checked my Amazon page today and found a really great review from actor, author and rescue dog parent Harry Hamlin, who had this to say about GIMME SHELTER - I loved this book! I love dogs but you don't have to be a "dog person" to get the message hidden between the lines. This book opens a door to serenity and  a fresh appreciation of the precious gift of life. It's a fun read written by a thoughtful man who takes us on his own journey of self-discovery that turns out to be ours as well. Great job!

In addition to film, TV and stage roles too numerous to mention, Harry has penned a fascinating memoir entitled Full Frontal Nudity. When you buy Gimme Shelter, maybe get it, too.

Lou, Lisa Rinna, Eugenie, Harry Hamlin

DON'T RUSH TO JUDGEMENT

By now many people know that a pack of roaming Pit Bulls is being blamed for the mauling death of an Antelope Valley woman who was attacked while jogging. Like many such stories, this one focussed on the breed of dog involved, neglecting to describe the owners, and the conditions in which the dogs were being kept. As details emerge, there's talk that the dogs may have belonged to a drug dealer and were allowed to roam free, with no training or socialization. Like Rottweilers, Dobermans, and German Shepherds before them, Pits have been the 'dangerous dog' of the day, in large part because they appeal to creeps looking for a four-legged weapon to aid their mischief or boost their 'cred'. It's sad and tragic that an innocent woman paid the price. While the dogs in question will be found and pay the price, hopefully the local prosecutor will send a message and throw the book at the guilty owners.

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On a lighter note, if you're looking for a fun time that will benefit animals in need, check out the MAD HATTER TEA PARTY to benefit Sky Valencia's St. Martin's Animal Foundation.

NKLA & BEST FRIENDS: HELP MAKE L.A. A 'NO KILL' CITY

Eugenie, Tanner and I spent a gorgeous, sunny afternoon at the La Brea Tar Pits where Best Friends is sponsoring their annual mega-adoption weekend, with 50+ rescue groups and 1,000 dogs and cats all looking for that special two-legged someone to give them a loving home. Of course, there were tons of handsome cuddly Pit Bulls, including two at a 'Kissing Booth'. Tanner was bashful, so I stepped in and puckered up for a good cause. 

We met all sorts of dedicated rescue folks, including: Angel City Pit Bulls, No Stray Left Behind, Adopt Me Rescue, One Dog Rescue, Operation Blankets of Love (one of my longtime 'give to's), Good Dog-Dog Talk Rescue, Westside German Shepherd Rescue, Rescue Works, Pug Nation Rescue of Los Angeles, Almost Home Animal Rescue, All Animals Big and Small, Sparky & the Gang Animal Rescue, New Leash on Life, Heart Bandits, The Red Nose Lucy Foundation, and Boston Buddies. If you or anyone you know is thinking of getting a rescue dog, head on down there tomorrow and I'm sure you'll find your forever buddy waiting. If not, spread the word and help make L.A. a 'no kill' city.

Eugenie and Tanner ignoring the Tar Pits Mammoths

The sad truth: in 2012 13,000 pets were killed in L.A.

We love Pitties!

REMEMBERING 'DOVER'

Eugenie, Tanner and I were in Santa Barbara this past February, when we met a lovely woman named Jo Hartman, who volunteers at the Central Coast SPCA. Here's a link to a story in the Santa Maria Times about her and her  late rescue St. Bernard, Dover. Her work with him goes to show how love and patience can change a throw-away dog into a life saver. Way to go, Jo.

Jo Hartman and 'Dover'