Get Your Dog Its Own Hydrant

Tue., Aug. 22, 2000

Melodie Little Correspondent

It’s more than inconvenient to live in an apartment and own a dog that constantly needs midnight shrubbery visits.

This dilemma has plagued pajama-clad penthouse dwellers for years.

Fucini Productions has rushed to the rescue with the Patio Park Dog Potty. It instantly converts small areas into convenient doggie outhouses.

However, such innovation isn’t without cost. The system, complete with Astroturf and mock fire hydrant, sells for $149. Call (877) 600-7429.

* Roll over, Rover: Spokane Dog Training Club will be registering for fall classes, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. at 2620 N. Locust Road.

Classes offered include puppy pre-school or kindergarten, companion and competition training, as well as agility, flyball and more.

Classes begin the following week. Call 922-2645.

* Another appalling display of gratuitous dog photos: At first glance “Big Dogs Little Dogs,” the companion volume to A&E’s special presentation, reeks of blatant canine commercialism.

However, the made-for-television slant is quickly forgotten as the reader dives into this playful account of doggie history.

Explore early Egyptian dogs and the ancient art they inspired. Marvel over Chips, the mixed-breed that served in World War II and was awarded a Silver Star and Purple Heart.

Captivating photos (my favorite, an extreme close-up of a dog lapping water) add warmth and humor. The hardcover, published by GT Publishing, sells for $25.

* Puppy safety: The Association of Pet Dog Trainers cautions owners against using inhumane training methods. Shock collars, choke chains and other harsh physical punishments can result in injury and death. Avoid using, or employing trainers who use, these cruel methods of training.

* Malodorous encounters: If your dog or cat tangles with a stinky striped intruder, Prevention Magazine has a deodorizing concoction for you.

Combine one quart 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with 1/4 cup baking soda and one teaspoon liquid soap in a bucket. Soak dog with water, then apply mixture.

Avoid eyes and work into lather. Leave on 3 to 4 minutes, then rinse.

* Retirement is going to the dogs: Homes offering services for pooches in their golden years are popping up throughout the country.

Owners who can’t care for their dogs are shelling out an average of $10,000 annually to ensure their pets live their final years in luxury.

Ask your veterinarian for information.

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