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.

                                                                               ~~~~~~

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'

YOUR FIRST IS ALWAYS SPECIAL

Just like romance, that first book signing carries a special charge. That was true for Tanner, Eugenie and me at Diesel, A Bookstore the other night, where we had our fist author 'event'. The SRO crowd of 50+ people included so many dear friends and family that I would need a separate post to thank them all. Instead, I'll give a communal shout out - Grazie Mille! We sold every copy of GIMME SHELTER (If you weren't there and want a copy don't worry, they'll be restocking or you can buy from Amazon or from us at www.buygimmeshelter.com). According to reports, I gave a terrific reading/Q & A, and we were thrilled to present our first donation of the Gimme Shelter Campaign to Malibu Pet Companions, a local non-profit that provides heroic, free vet care for the animals at the Agoura Hills (L.A. County) Animal Shelter, where Tanner once stayed. A special thanks to MPC Board chief and volunteer extraordinaire, Robin Kahrs, and Dr. Lisa Newall from Malibu Coast Animal Hospital, Tanner's doc, and one of the amazing veterinarians who donate their time and love to help the dogs and cats. If you're feeling generous, maybe stop by the Malibu Pet Companions site and contribute. 

Tanner before his Coming Out party

Lou signs 'Gimme Shelter' for a fan

Eugenie and Lou with Tanner's trainer, Tony Rollins

Dog park pals Wendy & Karen

Robin Kahrs president Malibu Pet Companions
&  Dr. Lisa Newall of Malibu Coast Animal Hospital

Eugenie and Tanner with Lynn Aime, of Disel Books, Malibu

Tanner greets friend and shelter volunteer Rob Lerner

CHANGES...HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, TANNER

Saturday, April 13, was Tanner's four-year anniversary with us and we wanted to share it with you. It feels like only yesterday that we brought him home from the Agoura Hills (L.A. County) shelter, an underweight, over-anxious creature that panicked at the slightest noise or movement.  from GIMME SHELTER: "Watching him bounce along on our walks, it’s hard to recall the skittish rescue dog that used to slink behind me, head hung low, bracing for the danger that loomed at every turn; the malnourished stray that ate in fits and starts, stopping constantly to check for unseen assailants. Now he gobbles down his food without a glance. Then he runs to fetch his toys, kicking off each day with affection and exercise instead of threats and abuse. He has grown buff from all that exercise, packing on ten pounds of rippling muscle. He prances proudly, eager to demonstrate his tricks for anyone willing to fork over a treat, or two. Sorry, Tony. He used to pull and strain to greet other dogs. Now he sits patiently (okay, not all that patiently, especially with puppies), until we signal that it’s okay to play, which he does with a gusto and good nature that never cease to amaze me. The homeless dog that slept on the street or, when he was lucky, on a tattered shelter pad, now bunks down in one of three comfy beds, nestled in plush blankets. 

Tanner, 4 years later

FEEDBACK ON THE MALIBU SURFSIDE NEWS STORY

We've had all sorts of gracious feedback from friends and neighbors on the Malibu Surfside News feature but I wanted to mention two responses that stand out. One was a note from reader Diane Malecha, a longtime rescue worker, who has fostered many, many Pit Bulls until they could find permanent loving homes. She wrote to thank me for writing GIMME SHELTER and helping raise awareness of animals in need. We're flattered but it's we who thank her and her fellow rescuer, Sherman, of Sherman's Place pet grooming in Malibu, for their extraordinary efforts. Without people like them, we'd have never had Tanner.

Burton & Malibu, two of 8 Pit pups fostered by Diane Malecha

The other amazing response was from a woman who read the story and called the paper to say that she was the good Samaritan who found Tanner wandering on Las Posas Road in Camarillo and later brought him to the Agoura Hills Shelter. We left our number with the paper and asked them to forward it to her so we could personally thank her for saving our boy. We'd also like to ask her a pressing question: How the heck did she get him into the car? As readers and anyone who's met Tanner knows, he's no fan of motorized transport.  from Gimme Shelter "Tanner's an incredibly athletic dog--he can maneuver like Messi, run like Usain Bolt, and jump like Blake Griffin--yet he approached the rear seat like an octogenarian tackling Mt. Everest. On a good day, it took a minute for him to make the climb. On a bad day, you could read Moby Dick before he reached the summit."

Wally & Zoolie, foster Pits that found a forever home thanks in part to Diane. 

BITCHES, 'PAWS OFF MY PIT BULL'!

Some scientific types say that dogs and other animals don't experience human emotions. Well...when Kona, Tanner's 'girlfriend' saw the Malibu Surfside News story she gushed with pride and flopped down on the paper (the picture wasn't posed). and growled a warning to any doggie sirens looking to poach her boy, telling them 'back off, or else'.

Tanner's girlfriend, Kona, checking out the Surfside News

                                                                         ~~~~~
Speaking of animals and whether they can feel like we do, if you're interested in where the current research is pointing, take a look at 'The Mystery of Animal Grief' by Jeffrey Kluger, Time Magazine, April 15, 2013.

TANNER MAKES THE NEWS

Tanner just landed his first press mention and he's very excited to be featured in his hometown paper, the Malibu Surfside News. Thanks to Suzanne, Bill and the publisher, Anne, for helping focus attention on GIMME SHELTER and the books central issues - helping rescue dogs and curbing the anger epidemic.

Tanner taking time to smell the roses (pansies)

JUST HOW 'DANGEROUS' ARE PIT BULLS?

In my haste to spread the word about Maryland's misguided law (nothing gets a 'recovering' angry guy worked up like picking on Pitties), I forgot to include some statistics from GIMME SHELTER about the odds of being killed by a Pit Bull. While the numbers are a few years old, they illustrate how the media's obsession with these 'killer' dogs is perversely overblown. I'm including them now to give you a sense of perspective.

Eugenie and Tanner

- According to CDC studies, about 10 persons die each year as a result of dog attacks. Of that number, Pit Bulls are responsible for approximately 28% or 2.8 deaths

-  In 2008, the Consumer Products Safety Commission reported 7 deaths from fireworks. Based on that number, you are two times more likely to die from a fireworks mishap than from a Pit Bull attack.

- Approximately 10 people a year die from snakebites, three times the number killed by Pit Bulls.

- From 1990-2003, 756 Americans (an average of 58/year) died from lightning strikes. That means you are more than 20 times more likely to be killed by lightening than by a Pit Bull.

- CDC statistics show that every day 10 people die from drowning, the second leading cause of non-intentional death for people ages 1-14. A person is 1,300 times more likely to drown than to be killed by a Pit Bull.

- Every year in the U.S., more than 1,700 children (roughly 5 each day) are killed by their parents or guardians, either through abuse or neglect. A child is more than 600 times more likely to be killed by their caretaker than by a Pit Bull.

-  For every Pit Bull that kills, there are MILLIONS that DON'T!

Resources-  Centers for Disease Control,  Consumer Products Safety Commission,  National Lightening Safety Institute,  U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

A TOTALLY FREAKY PIT BULL and A TOTALLY STUPID LAW

Wasn't sure what to write about this week when a online petition came in that I just I had to share it with our friends. It's asking the Maryland Appleate Court to overturn a ridiculous piece of legislation passed by the morons in the Maryland Legislature in 2012:

Tracey v. Solesky, No. 53, September Term 2012, Opinion by Cathell, J.

STRICT LIABILITY ADOPTED IN RESPECT TO ATTACKS ON HUMANS BY PIT BULL DOGS AND CROSS-BRED PIT BULL DOGS.

Upon a plaintiff’s sufficient proof that a dog involved in an attack is a pit bull or a pit bull cross, and that the owner, or other person(s) who has the right to control the pit bull’s presence on the subject premises (including a landlord who has a right to prohibit such dogs on leased premises) knows, or has reason to know, that the dog is a pit bull or cross-bred pit bull, that person is liable for the damages caused to a plaintiff who is attacked by the dog on or from the owner’s or lessor’s premises. In that case a plaintiff has established a prima facie case of negligence. When an attack involves pit bulls, it is no longer necessary to prove that the particular pit bull or pit bulls are dangerous.

                                                                                                                         ~~~~

In practical terms, the law means that in any incident involving a Pit Bull, the dog's owner or a or a landlord who rents to the owner of a Pit Bull would automatically be guilty of owning or harboring a 'dangerous' dog, thereby exposing those people to legal liability. Labeling Pits as inherently dangerous makes their adoption much more difficult, leading to more euthanized dogs.   If this strikes you as wrong-headed and unjust (Imagine a law that said, owing to the nature of the Mafia, all Italians are inherently criminal) sign the petition asking the Maryland Supreme Court to overturn the misguided, bigoted law.

'Inherently Dangerous' Tanner about to claim another victim

                                                                                             ~~~~ 

On a lighter note, if you enjoy watching canine athletes strut their, check out this video of  Tre-T, a Russian parkour super Pit Bull who treats the city like one huge urban dog park. Like Tanner, Tre-T's an American Staffordshire Terrier, but just a tad more energetic.

Tre-T literally bouncing off the walls

Announcing...the GIMME SHELTER CAMPAIGN

Tanner, Eugenie and I are thrilled to announce the start of the Gimme Shelter Campaign to help rescue animals. We had already committed 10% of the book's profits to animal rescue causes when our friend and fellow writer, Dan Cohen, suggested we offer interested organizations discount codes so that their members could save on the book and earn donations for their groups. It took a few weeks to work out the tech kinks but now it's a reality. By pointing their members and supporters to our online store, www.buygimmeshelter.com, and using the unique codes that we supply, they earn $1.00 for every book sold through their groups. In the coming weeks, we'll be announcing some of our 'partners'. Right now, if you know any organizations that could use a helping hand, have them get in touch with us to learn how they can join the Gimme Shelter Campaign.
                                                                      ~~~~
Now that Genesis Awards are behind us, we'd like to thank the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) for letting us contribute to the cause by offering e-copies of GIMME SHELTER to the celebrity presenters. Hope they enjoy the book as much as we appreciate all the hard work the HSUS does raising awareness of animal issues. For a look at photos of the star-studded gala, check them out on Facebook.
                                                                        ~~~~
Lastly, my sister and mad dog lover Honey pinned me a photo of the most decorated war dog in the history of the United States. Wanna guess the breed? That's right, a Pit Bull named Stubby.

RACING (raging?) IN THE RAIN

This past Monday, Eugenie and I had the honor of attending a book signing and Q & A by Garth Stein, author of the wildly popular "The Art of Racing In The Rain".  - "Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul (and an obsession with opposable thumbs), he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing, isn't simply about going fast. Using the techniques needed on the race track, one can successfully navigate all of life's ordeals. On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through."

Stein's appearance marked the first in the initial season of the Malibu Library's 'author events' and it was terrific. He read from his wonderful novel, told personal anecdotes related to the creation and publication of the book including how his then-agent told him that no one would ever read a book narrated by a dog and that no one would ever be able to sell or publish it. He didn't gloat but then again he didn't have to, since the book has garnered all sorts of praise, spent 150+weeks on the 'best seller' list, earned a gazillion dollars and is now being made into a major film by Universal Studios. He was charming, funny, serious, insightful - in short, it was the author as performance artist par excellence.  With my first two author 'events' fast approaching (details to follow shortly), this newbie was taking serious notes. I couldn't help thinking that, unlike Garth's racer hero, Denny, my issue is raging in the rain, the sun, the snow, the fog or just about any condition you can think of. If you're wondering what I'm rambling about, you need to get a copy of GIMME SHELTER.  And while you're buying books, if you've never read Stein's gem, get it. And you tough guys, be sure to buy a box of Kleenex, too, because you'll need it. 

Garth Stein signs 'Racing' for Lou and pal Robby Mazza, foreground