Blog | dianerosesolomon

Eastern or Western Dogs

To read Diane’s most recent blog posts, please see the Behind the Scenes blog at AnimalagicFilms.com.
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My trip to India was, as they say, life-changing. I was there because my graduate school program required that I volunteer in a developing country for two weeks. I had never been to India and had always been curious, plus I practice yoga, meditate, love Indian food and the timing seemed right.

Street animals

Prior to the trip I wrote two papers about India. One, a general cultural paper, and the other more specifically about the street dog population issues. Each helped me to understand a lot of what I would encounter, yet no amount of research can substitute for direct experience.

I was traveling as a student and was counseled to always approach a different culture as a learner. It’s good counsel. I did my very best to be as open-minded as possible, though there are always biases. I acknowledge that the following views stem from my very Western values and experiences.

Daily visit from a hungry cow

One of the things I learned during my research was about the difference between Eastern and Western philosophy regarding where dogs live. In India, dogs that roam free are not considered stray. They are street dogs. It’s not that they don’t have a place to live- it’s just that they live outside. Part of Indian culture includes a connection between all things, animate and inanimate. Thus, dogs, and other animals, wherever they live, are part of the environment, the fabric of Indian culture.

Puppies crossing the street

Some of the 25 million dogs in India are cared for by a family or the community though they come and go as they please. Others are just fending for themselves. You have likely seen images of street dogs in developing nations, or even in India. Some of them look very healthy and well cared for, while others are emaciated, sick or injured. Plus, a big part of Indian culture is the number of vehicles on the road. They drive fast and the rules… well, it’s kind of a free-for-all, so there are a lot of animals struck by vehicles.

In the US, and many developed Western countries, dogs (and other animals for that matter), don’t live in the streets. If they are there, there’s usually something wrong- such as someone cast them out or left them behind. Thus, we created a shelter system where dogs (and cats and sometimes other animals) can be cared for until they find a home. Except that since we created this system, millions of healthy adoptable pets have been euthanized because there isn’t enough space for all the animals in the shelter. Granted, the number of animals entering the US shelters has dropped dramatically since the 1970s but it’s still considered acceptable that we are killing healthy animals in this culture. Another reminder for people not to judge others (because our system is flawed too).

Garbage is a food supply

I had numerous conversations with both Westerners and Indian people in India about this topic. Some people are in favor of the free-roaming dogs because at least they aren’t at home all day bored like western dogs are, while the owners are at work. Street dogs get to come and go as they please and they have “friends” and stimulation. There is merit here.

The fact that many street animals (barely) survive by eating garbage is not ideal (that’s a whole different topic), and there is minimal veterinary care, if any, for most street dogs. Yet, there is a little slice of heaven in Udaipur, India called Animal Aid Unlimited (AAU), where I volunteered. The dogs that are sick or injured arrive at Animal Aid get fixed up as best as they can, and then they go back to the streets where they came from. In cases such as having been paralyzed by getting struck, or otherwise incapable of fending for themselves, dogs will have a permanent home at AAU.

Tony the donkey

Calf feeding time

AAU also cares for other animals such as cows, bison sheep, goats, chickens, orphaned calves, and donkeys whose owners have overworked them causing them physical damage rendering them useless as a working animal.

I need to acknowledge their incredible work. The organization is professionally run, they welcome volunteers and have done as much as possible to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment while there.

The love that they give and show to the animals is amazing. And what is happening systemically is that people now see the AAU ambulances around town and know whom to call when they see an injured or ill dog. The ambulances have their phone number emblazoned on the side of the truck. AAU receives 60-70 emergency calls daily.

In the past, sick and injured dogs languished in the streets. But people are now paying attention to the ones in distress and they have a place to call. Not only does this impact that person, but then other people in the neighborhood witness this, and are now touched by the act. Check out the video on AAU’s home page to learn more about how this is transforming the city.

Animal Aid Ambulance

First aid program graduates

While it will take time, I suspect that AAU’s impact will grow throughout India. It already has. Since there are so few veterinarians in India, AAU offers a comprehensive first aid training to people who are willing to spend a week at AAU. They then take their new skills back to their village and help animals in need. It is truly inspiring.

A major concern, however, is that there are only 50 animal shelters in India (as compared with about 13000 shelters and rescue groups in the US) so there is insufficient care for the animals. As soon as I left Udaipur to travel around India, I was distressed that I wouldn’t know where to call when I saw a suffering animal. This brings us back to the original idea that many animals in India are not cared for, are scrounging for food, are injured or sick. 90% of the puppies born do not survive…and there are a lot of puppies.

The paper I wrote discussed the challenges of decreasing the street dog population via sterilization for many logistical reasons in India. Yet, it is heartbreaking that more and more animals appear on the streets every day that will become sick, injured or killed. AAU does an amazing job caring for as many animals as they can in Udaipur, and they are just one organization. Wouldn’t it be cool if there weren’t quite so many animals to have to care for?

More puppies

Another consideration is whether Indian culture accepts dogs as pets. Yes, poverty is an issue. Yet there is a larger middle class than in the past and some of these people are buying dogs from breeders. The obvious question is: Why aren’t they just adopting the street dogs? Well, there are a few answers. First, they are not considered the “same.” (Street dogs belong in the street, but the dog that I have in my house should be purebred).

Clean and healthy dog being walked on a leash

Second, some of the street dogs are feral and wouldn’t make good pets- they are used to outdoor life and living in a pack. I get that.

Third, I’m not sure that the culture universally embraces animals living indoors. I wonder if an “Adopt, Don’t Shop” campaign, like we have in the US, could make a difference there. Maybe someday.

Sweet dog with his paws on my legs

Here’s what bothers me. I spent almost two weeks at AAU and a day at another shelter/hospital called Arunachala in a town called Tiruvannamalai. Granted, some of the dogs I met were not interested in being cuddled or petted but many of them were. It’s not as if they are all wild feral dogs that could not possibly have an easier existence if they had regular healthy meals, veterinary care, and a soft bed to sleep on. I believe there’s a better way.

Selfie with a buddy who jumped on my lap

Having said all this, remember that I have acknowledged that western culture isn’t perfect either. I wonder if there isn’t a new model that combines the best of both. Dogs out of harm’s way, with proper food, veterinary care, a warm bed, and someone to love them would be great. Let’s assume that the new model didn’t include a home for each dog, but they continued to live in a community. Perhaps more doggie daycares, or sanctuaries or some kind of community model could satisfy these issues.

It is truly impossible to attempt to solve these challenges in India (or in the US for that matter) in one post and I know I am opening a big can of worms. I am aware that there are innumerable people in India and around the world making a difference to these animals, and I bow to your commitment and efforts. I know that it takes money, human-power and a massive coordinated effort to accomplish anything this grand. I simply wanted to share my observations, particularly that I believe these dogs deserve to have more love, attention, and care than what they have now.

Care from the employees at AAU

Before I close, I want to be clear that I loved my time in India. There’s a beauty in the chaos that is indescribable and incredible natural riches. Most of the people I met were kind and caring and made me feel welcome, and of course, I fell in love with the animals. I hope to return someday. If you would like to see my photo journey, please check it out on Instagram @dianersolomon (it’s easiest to see there).

When I do return to India, I hope to volunteer at Animal Aid again. If you are moved to volunteer there, I highly recommend it. Let me know and I’ll give you information about where I stayed and how I got there.

All of the organizations in India can use your support. These are the two that I spent time at and will continue to support:
Animal Aid: https://animalaidunlimited.org/
Arunachala: http://www.arunachalasanctuary.com/index.php
(My friend’s dad started Arunachala in 2007. It is much smaller than AAU but they are doing an amazing job in Tiru and can use continued funds.)

Meanwhile, we still have plenty of animals in the US that need homes, so please Adopt, Don’t Shop. Lives are depending on you. And if you’d like to make a difference in the US via donation, these are a couple of my favorites:
https://www.deitydogsandgoods.com/dogs
https://startrescue.org/

Photography Bloopers

So, what are the bloopers? Well, in preparation for the new website for Animal Magic Films, I wanted to get new photographs of me. My hair is different now, I’m a little bit wiser (ahem) and the photos needed a little updating. Some of the photos with my dogs came out hilarious and I thought I’d share. You’ve probably met Ninja and Gonzo before but if not, here they are:

Did you mean sit “here”?

“Gonzo, some decency. Please.”

Do nose kisses mean the same thing in dog-speak?

We had fun during the photo shoot and Stephanie Waisler is the amazing photographer should you need photographs in LA.

We’re really excited to get the film stuff out in the world but in the meantime, if you need a holiday gift, What to Expect When Adopting a Dog is the best gift you can give to someone considering a new dog.

What is Leptospirosis?

So, what is Leptospirosis? I hadn’t heard of it until recently. It is a disease that pets can get (and possibly transmit to humans) that isn’t discussed much. I am writing about it just so that you are aware that it exists, but it is relatively rare, so this is not intended to instill fear at all.

I learned about it when a friend (who is a specialty veterinarian) told me that her dog was diagnosed with it after being pretty sick for a while. It was only because she is a vet and savvy, that she Dog with Thermometer pressed her general vet to investigate Leptospirosis.

After doing a bit of research and speaking with a general veterinarian, I learned that yes, it is rare. Her practice used to offer a vaccine for it, but her clinic doesn’t carry that vaccine anymore. Even if you administer the vaccine, it’s only for a certain strain and your pet could come in contact with a different strain anyway, so it’s relatively pointless. Humans experience that to a degree with the flu vaccine. (I get a flu shot every year- I’m not suggesting that you don’t. I’m using the flu shot as an example of multiple strains.)

This general veterinarian shared that while it is rare, she has heard of a few cases. It is contracted from contaminated water, which could be anywhere. Apparently taking a dog hiking where they come into contact with water that has been contaminated by other species’ urine could be a culprit. But that’s just one example.

Here is information from the American Veterinary Medical Association’s website: “Leptospirosis is a disease caused by infection with Leptospira bacteria. These bacteria can be found worldwide in soil and water. There are many strains of Leptospira bacteria that can cause disease. Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, which means it can be spread from animals to people. Infection in people can cause flu-like symptoms and can cause liver or kidney disease. In the United States, most cases of human leptospirosis result from recreational activities involving water. Infection resulting from contact with an infected pet is much less common, but it is possible.”

You can read more here.

And another article from the CDC, here.

I asked the veterinarian what to look for and she said general malaise is the most common symptom, though nausea is another. So, if you do find your dog not feeling well and your veterinarian isn’t coming up with any diagnoses, suggest that they test for Leptospirosis.

Disclaimer: Please remember I am not a veterinarian (at all!). I just know a few and take my dogs to them. This blog was simply a share to create awareness based upon the information you see above. If you have any concerns or questions about Leptospirosis or any other veterinary or medical issues, please contact a professional.

Looking for a resource for dog parenting? For tons of helpful information, grab your copy.

Big, Big Announcement

Diane Rose-Solomon
September 21, 2019
Diane's Blog

Over the past few years, I have immensely enjoyed sharing information about humane education, animal care and anything that helps move the world of animal rescue forward. Along the way, I have also shared bits of information and a few stories about the Human-Animal Bond and Human-Animal Interactions. It turns out I am inspired and intrigued by the myriad ways that animals help people cognitively, emotionally and physically. As such, it is my intention to continue sharing more information about Animal Assisted Therapy, Animal Assisted Intervention, Service Animals and more.

Here’s why this is so exciting to me: First of all, the more awareness people have of the therapies and services available, the more people we can help in a multitude of ways. And second, because my love for animals continues to grow, perhaps with this new appreciation of how animals help us, humankind will have a deeper respect for our animal friends. Our relationship with animals is symbiotic and I’m eager to celebrate it.

While I was originally “planning” on sharing the following with you “when I was ready” and everything was tied up in a bow, stuff happens and it’s time to start sharing now: I have begun making documentary films about the myriad ways animals help people. Until May, I had very, very, very little film experience and I am grateful for the professionals that are helping me with this project. It’s going to take a few more months of filming, editing and setting up the platform until I’m ready to start sharing, but I wanted to make sure YOU knew about this before anyone else.

The big reason I’m letting you know months before I’m ready, is that while I was filming the amazing work that Canine Commandos does, Florida Today was there doing a newspaper story about their amazing program. They were interested in the fact that Canine Commandos was the subject of one of my mini-documentaries and mentioned me in that article. So, just in case you read that newspaper, I wanted you to have read it here that, yes, I am now making films.

Oh, and the film company is called Animal Magic Films (aren’t our interactions with animals absolutely magical?).
Until my proper website is up and running, here’s a link to the temporary landing page I’m using.

Over the next few months I will continue sharing what I’m learning and then we’ll see where this all takes us. It’s going to be a mixed bag as we settle in. I anticipate some modifications in format, but I’m taking one step at a time. The new website will be up in a few weeks and will be interactive and informative. Animal rescue will always be near and dear to my heart and the Human-Animal Bond work will ideally serve to bolster it and help more people and animals worldwide. I am so grateful that you are here on this amazing adventure with me.

As I write this note to you, I am at the Pet Partners Conference in San Antonio. They are the leaders in Animal Assisted Therapy and Animal Assisted Interactions and are “Touching Lives and Improving Health Through the Power of Therapy Animals.” The conference is amazing, and everyone is learning so much- even the people that work in this field day in and day out.
I will be sharing more about all of this over the coming weeks and months and will be sure to share all the juicy bits with you.

With much appreciation for your continued readership and interest in this work,
Diane

Book Review: A Dog Called Meatball and His Brother Chicken Nugget

A children’s book recently came to my attention and is being added to the Team Kindness Book Club! It’s called A Dog Called Meatball and His Brother Chicken Nugget and it has a wonderful message. First of all, it is written by someone who works in an animal shelter, so it is written from firsthand experience. The information provided in the book is accurate, at least for this type of shelter and it is neatly woven into the story. This book is the first in the “From Alone to a Home Collection.”

The story is sweet too. From the back of the book: Two stray puppies have been on their own since they were born. These brothers have been fending for themselves on the streets… until things suddenly change.

One puppy is whisked off by an unknown man and he is forced to figure out how to get by without his brother for the first time in his life. He finds himself in an animal shelter where he learns all about what it means to be adopted into a loving family. But will he ever see his brother again?

I’ll leave it to you, kind reader to decide if he ever sees his brother again, but suffice it to say, no children reading this will be sad at the end. The book is a middle-reader with five short chapters and a few sweet illustrations mixed in. A Dog Called Meatball also offers an accompanying coloring book.

Additionally, I just learned that book number two in the “From Alone to a Home Collection” is due out now. It is titled Mr Misunderstood: A Tale of Trust. You can find copies of the books and the coloring book on Amazon. Reading books like these with wonderful humane messages is a great way to start out the school year.

Happy National Dog Day!

T-Bone

Today, Monday August 26th is National Dog Day. There are animal and pet holidays most days and weeks of the year and while I often am remiss, some bloggers are excellent at commemorating them. In fact, there’s a whole National Dog Week coming up in September. ? In my humble opinion, however, every day is Dog Day and actually every day is also cat, horse, pig, llama, monkey, donkey, koala, panda, iguanas, turtles, iguanas (you get the idea) day. And not just nationally, but internationally as well. Animals are such an important part of our environment and eco-system and deserve our respect. It is just too painful when they are mistreated, neglected, poached…

No one expects everyone to have a pet, or support animals in need. We are all attracted to a variety of worthy causes that may or may not include animals. Yet basic kindness and decency toward all beings is essential. That’s why humane education is growing and required in many locales. Kindness can be learned even when it’s not overt at home. Breaking the cycles of abuse and neglect is possible.

Ninja & Gonzo

Further, there’s no reason to accept decency as the best we can do. Animals serve us and each other daily as companions, confidantes, aids, sources of love and so much more. It’s the least we can do to celebrate them from time to time. So Happy National Dog Day to you and yours. And while we’re at it, Happy Every Animal Day in celebration of all the amazing animals around the world.

Book Review: The Girl Who Lives on the Rainbow

When our first dog, JJ, passed away years ago, my friend, Kerri, showed up with a copy of the children’s book, Dog Heaven, by Cynthia Rylant, for my young kids. I’m pretty sure I got more out of it than they did. It was around then that I first learned about the idea of the Rainbow Bridge.

Fast forward 12 years later and my friend, Jamie Lewis, a fellow animal lover and caregiver, writes this beautiful children’s book called The Girl Who Lives on the Rainbow. Here’s a little bit about the book:

This is the story of Grace, a little girl who absolutely loves all animals. She befriends every animal that she meets and spends all of her time loving and taking care of any animal in need. Grace becomes very sad when any animal passes away but is quite relieved when she discovers the truth of where they all went. Grace wants to make sure that everyone knows that their beloved pets are safe and happy and well-loved, even when they can’t be seen.

I think adults get as much out of this book as kids do, and in fact, I know some who have. It really is a sweet, uplifting story and I encourage anyone who has lost a pet, especially if you have kids, or know kids to pick up a copy. You can purchase it here.

Is CBD Right for Your Pets or You?

CBD is a hot topic these days. It’s becoming more mainstream for people and animals, but people seem largely uneducated about its applications and opportunities and how to use it safely. My aging dogs take a slew of joint support supplements, and it might just be time to add in some CBD. Wanting to make sure that I offer them the safest products, I contacted Aaron Thames whom I’ve known for a couple of years, originally through his dog rescue Memories of Besa (MOB). It turns out that he has also been involved with the CBD industry since 2015 and is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about its efficacy. I caught up with Aaron and got some of my questions answered.

DRS: What is CBD?

AT: CBD stands for Cannabidiol, which is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in hemp.

DRS: What are the most common misconceptions about CBD?

AT: The two most common misconceptions are that 1- it gets your dog high and 2- is a magic elixir that fixes everything.

DRS: How does CBD differ from THC which is psychoactive?

AT: CBD is extracted and detached from specific types of cannabis. As the second most abundant compound in cannabis, it typically represents up to 40% of its extracts. CBD is found in both psychoactive cannabis (marijuana) and non-psychoactive cannabis (hemp). However, most legal CBD products found on the market will be extracts from hemp which federal law allows for the cultivation and processing of hemp products.

DRS: It is so important for people to understand that CBD won’t get your pet or you high. What are the most common applications for CBD in dogs? Or other animals?

AT: CBD can help anxiety, sleep, pain management, epilepsy, quality of life- and is safe for all animals that we are aware of (and people).

DRS: Yeah- I think that CBD could help my dog Ninja’s pain and my dog Gonzo’s anxiety. How does a pet parent keep their dog/pet safe while using CBD?

AT: Simply follow the dosage recommendations outlined by the trials at Colorado State veterinary school and Cornell University.

DRS: Got it. What are the most common misuses?
AT: Most people just don’t get desired results because they don’t follow the instructions.

DRS: What exactly is your role in the CBD realm?

AT: I am the managing partner for a rescue inspired CBD brand, Farmacopeia. I started Farmacopeia when my rescued dog, Wully, developed idiopathic head tremors from one dose of Bravecto which was supposed to help severe allergies. The tremors eventually occurred multiple times daily lasting 20 minutes. CBD fixed it after about 6 months of consistent use. It forced me to learn about the products, the science (or the lack thereof at the time), and even the culture of the industry and as a result, we ended up formulating multiple products for pets and humans.

DRS: Wow- that’s amazing. Where’s the best place for people to get educated?

AT: There’s some more information on our website Farmacopeia-life.com, and for a wider view, ProjectCBD is useful.

DRS: How can people trust that the product they use is safe and legitimate?

AT: Always ask for a per-batch certificate of analysis (COA).

DRS: What if your vet is not yet recommending CBD?

AT: Many are afraid of threats issued by the DEA, but, like medical cannabis, it is their first amendment right to recommend, not prescribe.

DRS: Where’s the best place to purchase high-quality CBD products?

AT: Our products can be found at Farmacopeia-life.com. There you can learn why our products are so effective.

DRS: Thanks Aaron for all of this helpful information. If you have further questions, Aaron you can contact him directly: aaron@Farmacopeia-life.com

Also, Memories of Besa rescue does an amazing job saving dogs’ lives. They can always use an extra set of hands if you are in CA, or funds if you are outside of CA and would like to help. You can find them here: http://facebook.com/mobrescue

The next time I update What to Expect When Adopting a Dog, Farmacopeia will be in there, but for now, it’s still your go-to resource for dog adoption and dog parenting information.

Book Review: Jeannie Houdini

I’ve never had a hamster though I vaguely recall asking for one as a kid. I’m so glad that there are books now like Jeannie Houdini that teach children and their families about animals and caring for them, which naturally results in a beautiful relationship. But the caring for them part comes first, though I always say, no matter how much your kids say they will take care of a new pet, it always falls on the adult.

I recommend Jeannie Houdini for anyone considering a hamster as a family pet, or anyone who just likes animals and sweet stories! The back of the book offers some useful details about hamsters and hamster care. This is the latest book in the wonderful Gryphon Press collection. If you are an educator and purchase a copy, you can download a free classroom guide as well. Go here to learn more and order, or find the book on Amazon here.

Check out the Team Kindess Book Club for other great book’s for children of all ages.

And for the young dog lovers in your life, pick up a copy of JJ The American Street Dog or JJ Goes to Puppy Class!

The Dog Days of Summer

Don’t you just love summer?

Are you the kind of family that loves the long warm summer days at home… kids sleeping late, or at camp during the day? Maybe a few trips to the lake or beach? Or do you love getting far away from it all? Do you prefer a relaxing sitting by the pool kind of vacation? Or are you more of the adventure seeking type? Or a mix?

And- have you ever been on a vacation or even a staycation (the vacation where you stay at home) that gives back to the community or to our planet?
Here are some great ideas for you animal-loving families.

Let’s start with the staycation. School is out, kids need something to do for at least part of the time. They love animals, you love the idea of them getting a humane education year-round. But of course, we want it to be fun, right?

Did you know that many animal shelters offer summer camp weeks?

If you are staying close to home, it’s a fabulous option.

Shelters offer kids camps with activities ranging from arts and crafts projects, to reading, guest speakers, scavenger hunts, puzzles, and some offer hands-on work with shelter animals. Perhaps they do a little dog training, some outdoor activities, and socializing with shelter animals. I recently learned that some groups either have a veterinarian on staff or bring one in to camp to show kids how to suture after a spay and neuter procedure (using a banana!) and in some instances, kids can even watch a real procedure (having a signed waiver from their parents of course and age appropriate).
The kids are having fun while learning!

Next, what if you are going for an extended stay somewhere and want to get to know the area? Let’s say you are visiting Kauai, Hawaii (lucky you!). Your children can join the Kauai Humane Society Critter Camps and do all of this in Hawaii. At Kauai Humane, the kids get to do a mock surgery with a stuffed dog and the “Critters” put on gloves and cute animal masks and pretend to be the Vet and the Vet techs. They usually find a toy that the dog has swallowed or chocolate. Their imaginations go beyond!

The kids are engaged, having fun all while learning.

This frees you up to have a little bit of adult time exploring, AND, if you are itching to give back while traveling (yay you!) one of the most popular programs at Kauai Humane is the “Take A Dog Out For A Day ” or Field Trip program. People come in and pick out a dog to take out for the day. They can take them on hikes or the beach, or even just for a ride to the mall or their home for a few hours.

The dogs get more exposure because they wear an “adopt me” vest and many tourists end up adopting and taking the dogs home to the mainland!

What a great way to be on vacation and get to be a part of the local humane experience. You get your “doggie fix” while exploring the local area while giving back to the dogs and ultimately the community.

Sign me up!

If you recall my visit to Best Friends Animal Society a few years ago, I was able to have a sleepover with a dog.

I love learning that other organizations are also allowing dogs to go out on hikes, get some socialization and who knows, might become your newest family member.

A few organizations that I know of running summer camps this summer are:

New Hampshire SPCA