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Hello From The Wilderness...

Posted by jennifer on November 4, 2011.

Hello Everyone-
I'm sorry it's taken me so long to write a new blog. I have been working with a ghost writter in Los Angeles on a book that I think will make up for all my off-line time and I think it will be well worth the wait!

In the mean time, there has been so much to report from the year 2011- so many things that I don't even know where to begin. For starters, I moved from high up in the Rockies to a horse barn outside of Prescott, Az. Quite literally- I lived in the barn and if I opened up one of the windows, a horse could stick his head inside and eat hay in my living room!

What was so fascinating about this experience was that I was actually able to document a pack of coyotes on the ranch and the resident dogs communicating to one another. It was one of the most amazing things to hear- coyotes that learned to bark like dogs and dogs who learned how to yip!

I worked on the ranch with the horses, dogs and cats and from there, I was able to get a 5 acre property to run the K-9 Ranch Training Center in Prescott. This has given my clients amazing access who live in California and Nevada and I've had a lot of customers wanting to make the drive out here.

I have also had the opportunity to live side by side some of the world's most venomous creatures- scorpions, rattlesnakes and tarantualas which has given me a lot of appreciation for these other species in the high desert.

I have been actively following the Mexican Grey Wolf program, attending meetings and staying in touch with what's happening on the front lines.
In my spare time, I've done more natural hosemanship and have gone riding quite a bit in both Az. & Co.

This past year has certainly brought a lot of opportuniites for my on-going education
as well as taught me more about living in a new environment.

As we enter 2012 I think it's important for me to talk a little about our relationship with the natural world. I know that times are tough for a lot of people out there and although I've seen both sides of the coin, I have also chosen to live a life closer to mother nature- whether in a tent, in a tee-pee or in a house at 9,000 ft.

I often talk a lot about the human species dllema as it relates to people's pets but I think now it's time to broaden that message to engulf many of our friends in forest, ocean, etc.

The one disadvantage our species has is our need for self fullfillment, growth and expansion. We seem to have a hard time with simplicity. It's really hard for us all to slow down, make compassionate choices on a daily basis that really will be affecting the very lives that walk this earth in the future.

Non-human animals have this advatage. For example, the wolf who has done it's job so well, that it was able to survive the ice age. Other animals are more intellegent than the human species in ways in which we cannot understand. For example, meet the dog who can sniff out a seizure well before it happens, meet the horse who can see the slightest movement in a tree or the shark who can smell 10,000 times more than we can ever comprehend!

If there's one thing I have learned, is to view various creatures using these different senses at higher levels to actually learn from them. My brain may not be able to process a smell like a dog's brain can, but I have figured out exactly what they are doing through their nose just by merely spending time watching them. I took this knowledge and used it to smell plants & trees in a way I had never thought of before which helps me understand the way they think to assit them in tracking, scent and search work at a higher level.

I believe that by allowing oneself to step into this role as an equal and sometimes a student, not as a superior, can bring more appreciation for the natural world. Animals do things for a reason- humans do things for a need and that need is no longer survival it's consumption, growth and expansion. All resources are finite. They will not last forever and if there comes a time when you have to feed your family, step into the backyard and create a vegtable garden, it's a step towards getting back in touch with the natural world.
Change can be terrifying but also at the same time an opportunity for a new beginning.

It is my hope that through everything that is going on in our economic climate, we can all get back to the simple things in life because that's what helps species survive in the long haul. I believe we are on the verge of something great that has already started to be more concious of our environment, the choices we make and why having other animals around such as wolves, mountain lions, sharks, coyotes, etc. is so important. I encourage all who wish for adventure to embrace each circumstance, look for the good in everything and take great appreciation for our mammal and non-mamal friends as we can certainly learn a lot from them!

Best to you and your dog (or wolf/wolf-dog!) from Prescott, Az.
Jennifer

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Evaluating Aggression In The Shelter Dog...

Posted by jennifer on February 16, 2011.

Run after run, I slowly walk down the aisle. Some tails wag, other bodies shake, some mouths growl and others have a warning sign on their run that says: "Do not touch" on the gate. Those are the runs that I find where a dog is in need of significant help.

After spending a long time working with extremely severe cases of dog aggression and aggression in captive wolves, it takes a lot for me to label a dog "aggressive" even though there are a lot of dogs that are deemed so.

Because dogs originated from wolves, in stressful situations, they still hold more fear than aggression towards humans and although something may look aggressive on the surface, most often it's not. With that said, it's important to work with the dogs that are shaking in their runs that everyone is afraid to touch. I should know as I own one of those dogs. Believe it or not, she is the sweetest dog I've probably ever owned once I got her out of the environment.

Some people are quick to determine a dog's state of mind when not looking at all the underlining issues. It's hard to say that a canine that is growling and barking is actually going to retain that when adopted. In most cases of shelter dogs, it is fear that is the ruling factor not dominance.

I always tell people that if you have an intelligent animal, expect that you may experience aggression in times of high stress. I know that if my dogs were in that environment as two German Shepherds for a prolonged period of time, they would start becoming aggressive. All people and all animals can be aggressive given fight or flight or the right circumstance to push them over the edge. It would be hard for a person to sit in a run day after day with all the noise and stress let alone a dog.

Certain tests that are done on shelter dogs to determine their thresh hold of tolerance should be done away from the kennel environment and not on any dog displaying aggression or fear. First you must build trust to get them completely over that hurdle before presenting something that could back fire that on that trust.

I don't believe in testing dogs inside shelter environments because it's not fair and not accurate. If you want to take the dog out for a walk first, that's one thing but doing anything along the lines of testing in a shelter run is like teasing a lion locked behind a cage. You have to remember that all things must be looked at from the dog's perspective.

The stress of a shelter can wear thin on not only the dogs but the people trying to save their lives. It's important to recognize that without these dedicated souls, most dogs in these environments would not make it out alive.

Hopefully, we can continue working on protocols while still establishing the need for individuality as truly, no dog is the same :-)

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Yavapai Humane Society Training Program: 16 Dogs, 16 Volunteers, 16 Adoptions, 1 Simple Concept

Posted by jennifer on January 6, 2011.

On Nov. 16th, 2010, 16 dogs from the Yavapai Humane Society in Prescott, Arizona and 16 volunteers & staff entered their first 6 week basic obedience course. Seven weeks later, all 16 dogs who may have otherwise been euthanized or deemed un-adoptable were placed in homes and graduated.

On Dec. 21st, 10 more dogs and volunteers entered the next series of classes. By week 3, students dropped their leashes, turned around and walked away from their dogs. The dogs have now completing the down stay.

For half the class, I ask the human students if they did their homework. I'm not referring to just practicing with their dog, the volunteers are asked to bring in 2 facts about their breed or breeds of dog they are working with. This information can not only help the volunteer to understand different breeds but also give them valuable information they can then pass along to the new owner.

The forth class we start a marketing campaign. I urge them to take their dogs to the streets, in front of grocery stores, to adoption events to show off their skills. One volunteer even posted flyers of her dog on her car windows!

The volunteers have an emotional interest in the dog and the dog re-gains trust in a person again.
When someone spots a shelter dog doing re-fined obedience training, you have to stop and ask "Where did you get your dog?", "How long have you been working with her?" and the list goes on.

I started this by believing that every volunteer & staff member could be a dog trainer. Their hard work, dedication and compassion for these animals has shed light that they are capable of transforming a potentially abused, stray or abandoned dog into a wonder dog.

These animals are using their minds, releasing stress, receiving enrichment and exercise and building a re-newed trust.

Many thanks go out to every volunteer & staff member that has dedicated themselves to this simple training program. With their help, we are able to place dogs in homes quicker and give them a chance at staying there. The added benefit is that each new owner is allowed to attend one of my basic obedience classes for free!

To donate to the Yavapai Humane Society in support of this program, please visit: www.crowdrise.com/jennifermccarthy

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Thanks :-)

Posted by jennifer on October 30, 2010.

Hey Everyone-
Thank you all for the beautiful messages and support I've been receiving from the airing of the Wolf-Dog special last night on the National Geographic Channel. There's much more to come as things are moving quickly in a bigger direction... With that said, I have many more research projects I'll be talking about, my work with coyotes and ranch dogs, horses, the Mexican Gray Wolf Program and much, much more! So stay tuned in here to my blog to get the latest news and I look forward to meeting more of you out there on this wonderful journey of helping animals. Howl and woof to you all!
All my best,
Jennifer

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You're Invited: Dog Whisperer Premiere Event!

Posted by jennifer on October 9, 2010.

To see the invitation, click here:

Dog_Whisperer_4x6_100710[1]2.pdf

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FREE YAVAPAI HUMANE SOCIETY BEHAVIOR LECTURE IN PRESCOTT, AZ!

Posted by jennifer on October 5, 2010.

Hey Everyone: Click on this link to see the flyer for this event coming Oct. 23rd at 10 AM...

Jennifer McCarthy Seminar.pdf

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NAT. GEO. WOLF-DOG SPECIAL AIR DATE ANNOUNCED!

Posted by jennifer on September 22, 2010.

Stay tuned in on Oct. 29th at 7p.m. to the National Geographic channel for a one hour special on the show "The Dog Whisperer" regarding my work with wolf-dogs. Cesar & I will be rehabilitating 3 cases. See you on TV!

You can learn more here:

http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/dog-whisperer/4523/Overview

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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ONE HOUR WOLF-DOG SPECIAL...

Posted by jennifer on August 8, 2010.

Hello Friends,
Please visit: http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/dog-whisperer/4523/Overview for more upcoming information on my work with wolf-dogs on the emmy-nominated show, "The Dog Whisperer". This special episode will be airing soon so tune in here or the Nat. Geo. website for more information!
Woof & Howl,
Jennifer

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Free Dog 101 Seminar at Healthy Spot: West Hollywood!

Posted by jennifer on July 29, 2010.

"Free Dog 101 Seminar w/ Q&A - THE WOLF WOMAN Jennifer McCarthy

Who is afraid of the big, bad wolf? Not this lady. Jennifer McCarthy is a world class celebrity dog trainer that has done extensive work with wolves. She is widely regarded as a leader in the field research with wolves. You can call her a leader of pack!

We are excited to WELCOME Jennifer McCarthy to our West Hollywood Healthy Spot location for a special FREE one night engagement.The Wolf Woman will be presenting her Dog 101 lecture and Q&A session Tuesday night, August 17th at 7pm

This is your opportunity to learn and ask one of the very best in the industry about your canine companion. It promises to be a wild night out. Come join us!"

To access Healthy Spot's website, visit: www.healthyspotonline.com

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New Adventures...

Posted by jennifer on June 14, 2010.

Today I am heading home after spending some time with my friend Henry (a high percentage wolf-dog) as he recovers from an injury from hiking last week. It's one thing to get a 100 lb. animal that is pretty much all wolf, into the back of my Jeep and into emergency care. It's another thing getting him down the mountain, into the emergency clinic off a high traffic area street, going through surgery and then successfully adopting a lamp shade collar. Then after this, having to take him back to the emergency clinic after he figures out how to chew through the collar and pull out his drainage tube. I am happy to report that Henry is now doing well and is no longer resisting the lampshade although many objects tend to fall or get knocked over in his path.

I have a busy next two months ahead of me- I am leaving for Africa in two weeks, packing up a lot of my things into storage and when I return, heading to Arizona to begin a journey back to horses, coyotes, the Mexican Gray Wolf and coexistence issues between wildlife and ranchers. You may be wondering why I do all of this and you will soon find out as I launch a new behavioral concept this fall right here on my website based on four years of research. Don't worry, it still has to do with dogs but on a much broader spectrum.

After heading to Az. for one week, I am then in L.A. to meet with clients then up to a horse ranch where I will be living at for 1-2 years. I will still have my current locations and will eventually be heading back to Colorado but will still be there to meet with clients as I do in L.A. & Vegas in the meantime.

This is good news for those in Los Angeles and in Scottsdale, Prescott & Phoenix as I will be in these areas more often now to service those that need my help.
With all of this research, I have come to find some great advancements in the world of non-human animals so stay tuned for some amazing new information coming soon!
I am off to pack and gather up my equipment for some tent living in the bush of Gorongosa National Park as I document the re-introduction of species similar to that of the wolves in Yellowstone. I will be gathering information on local struggles between wildlife and livestock and see if they are having success with the Hyena and Wild Dog packs that run through the park and into local communities.
Off to pack and will blog from the road!
Best wishes,
Jennifer

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Filming Pics....

Posted by jennifer on May 13, 2010.

These are some pictures from filming a wolf transport across 5 states with a wolf, 4 of her week old puppies and the wolf-dog father. It took 3 hrs. to crate her using no tranquilizers, no catch poles as she viciously protected the pups as any mother wolf would. We encountered a tornado warning, hail, blinding rain, heat and snow on this journey to release them in their new home...

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Living With Nature As Your Neighbor...

Posted by jennifer on April 6, 2010.

Today I stood starring into the eyes of a collared bobcat in the Santa Monica Mountains. To my left was a Great Horned Owl with big golden eyes, flapping his wingspan above me- so close I was captivated by this beautiful essence of wildlife.
I was ironically just outside of Los Angeles and in the midst of a breath-taking environment straight out of a post card. In the far distance, I could hear cars humming on the freeway. I was so close to these animals which is much closer than I would be near my own home in the Rocky Mountains. I felt sense of sadness come over me that here they were in all their glory- trapped in a pocket surrounded by over development, Starbucks, homes and McDonald's. If only Los Angeles had more of this I thought. What a place it would be!
I had access to a biologist with a tracking collar on this beautiful beast of feline but then would find myself meeting with THE ONLY WILDLIFE person in the ENTIRE CITY of well over 9 million people. How could it be that I get more complaints from pet owners worried about their yorki in the hills of L.A. and yet only one person held such a position in a city so large?In some sense, it feels unbalanced.
How is it that we care more about our domestic companions than our wild ones? I can remember giving a wildlife lecture here a couple of years ago that I could count the number of people attending on one hand yet with dogs, it was a full house. For every person out there donating to a dog, cat or horse sanctuary there are all too few wild animal sanctuaries going down the tubes. Don't get me wrong- please support our domestics but caring for our wildlife is just as important and understanding how to KEEP IT WILD is more important now more than ever.
I often find it ironic that if a person is stung by bees doing what they naturally do, no one is called to the scene to investigate the bee's bad choice in behavior. Yet, if a coyote, mountain lion, bear, wolf, etc. has put one claw mark (or even just chased or charged in some cases), that predator has to be immediately killed. Is this saying that animals should be treated differently?
Human beings need to understand what it means to live in harmony with nature. It is the common bind that keeps us in good/bad, evil or angelic- you can either love nature too much or not care about it at all.
Nature and "wildness" runs through your blood as much as it runs through the super model's blood on a New York, fashion runway. Our very connection to the earth and protecting it is mis-understood by many people. Feeding any form of wildlife will eventually lead to that animal's death. Not caring about wildlife will lead to more animals and land disappearing. We are entering a new time of awareness & awakening that I believe will connect us back to our humanness as an animal and to our past.
Right now as I type, more log homes are being built in mountain ranges, more hotels and ski resorts. The smog levels in our National Parks will rise this summer unbelievably from lines of cars taking pictures and engines idling. People want more nature and with the internet, more people are expanding outwards from cities to get it. However, did you know that you are actually creating less wear on the environment by living in a city and staying closer to a local grocery store, coffee shop and dry cleaner? Have you considered that by feeding wildlife, you are habituating the animal off it's natural food sources which raises other animal's population rates as well as causing them to become aggressive towards humans from expecting their food?
Did you know that we have been slowly affected by light and noise pollution near urban developments similar to some wildlife being affected? (Try to concentrate on the sounds around you right now like the refrigerator humming and you'll know what I'm talking about).
The more we take over, the farther we keep pushing these animals right out of their homes. They have no choice but to either adapt or leave. Corridors for wildlife are becoming non existent and coyotes frequently come up to beg for food. What makes the earth beautiful is it's land, oceans and the wild creatures that live beside us. We have all but destroyed most and those that are left are falling off the map everyday.
The earth will always be here but in the end it will come down to humans being able to surpass our own destruction. It starts with education in how to co-exist not only with our planet but the land and it's beings as well. We are not superior to non-humans. In fact, I feel strongly that most are here to teach us more about ourselves. They are the intelligent ones and have lasted far longer in some cases than us homo-sapiens who are still developing.
I fear that unless we have a greater & kinder appreciation for what is left out there, there will be nothing left for our children and there children. If you haven't already, join a cause that incorporates these important topics. Teach your children about the earth and all it's inhabitants and not to try to control it.
If we are to make a change, that change starts individually and spreads- YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

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Chemicals: How They Effect Our Relationships With Animals

Posted by jennifer on March 22, 2010.

All animals first and foremost relationship is with their Mother. If you ask a human behavior expert, it may be a case for why so many humans have lasting feelings and attachments with the child bearer going all the way back to before a year old. This relationship, so connected and primal starts in the Mother's womb. From conception to birth, an experience like no other takes place- that of the creation of new life.
With this process comes changes in hormones and pheremones for a female human being. Even the Father's testosterone levels decrease as they become more of a reproductive family unit. So how is it that human chemicals can effect animals? Well, I believe they do in a variety of ways based on my own observations over the years. Not to be graphic but let's take the example of an intact male dog with a single, female owner during her monthly cycle. At this time, the dog may become more protective and aggressive episodes can rise at this time. He may place himself in between his owner and her new date for a kiss and barking could increase.
Now let's take the case of ten random individuals brought into a captive wolf enclosure. Here we have a situation where the wolves may not go up to the men but prefer going up to the females first. Wolves are generally shy and timid. Women are nurturing and estrogen is flowing. If a high testosterone man walks in, the wolves can sense that and back away. Sometimes the male wolves will even become territorial over the female humans and act aggressively towards the men. Have you ever heard the saying " A girl is a person who screams at the mouse but smiles at the wolf"? Well, now you know why. LOL In fact, I have found more and more females working with dangerous animals and actually, they do quite well because they are coming from a feeling sense and not a domineering sense. This is working with the animal and not against them.
High testosterone works well for highly driven dogs. If you need a protection dog that can bite, jump through a window or go get the bad guy, the more testosterone that can flow down into the leash to your dog, the better. Shy animals I have found do best with female components such as estrogen.
I have recently sought the help of finding a scientist who can study this. I also want to make note of artificial chemicals in the human body as well as flower essences, etc. It is an interesting thing about mixing together highly potent scents with animals. Last time I checked, animals never do this. They actually prefer things that are natural- for instance, a wolf might like you better without perfume and body lotion and like you even more if you haven't showered in a week and didn't wear deodorant.
Other chemicals such as smoking, drugs and drinking effect your relationship with wildlife as well as your pets. I love water- so do my dogs. I like to keep things consistent- if animals don't do it, I won't either with the exception of a cup of coffee in the morning. If you cloud your thoughts, you cloud and put a barrier up for the animal. Non-humans trust what is pure.
As we are changing, so are our domestic and wild animals. It is high time we give respect to them as much as they give respect to us and learn how our humanistic ways effect them.

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Denver- ABC 7 News: "Grand Junction Man Indicted In Dog Dragging Death Suspect's Sister Also Indicted For Covering It Up"

Posted by jennifer on January 27, 2010.

To read the full story, follow the link below... This is in regard to the German Shepherd named Buddy who was dragged behind a car on purpose recently in Grand Junction, CO.

http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/22346556/detail.html

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Hello From the Woods...

Posted by jennifer on January 12, 2010.

Hi Everyone-
Well, I certainly have been on quite the journey lately trying to re-a-quaint myself again with society after spending so much time alone in solitude with nature, wolves, dogs, horses, birds, lynx- you name it.
These last four years have not only taught me a great deal professionally but personally as well. I have truly learned more from wolves about humankind than I think from humans themselves.
It has been quite the journey thus far that has taken me to places I never thought I would go. My understanding of creatures other than our own has shown me since I was a child that they know more than us in simpler terms. If you can slow your brain down and think with your instincts, you can be more effective with your pet than ever before.
Since modern society has had us "creating" and inventing all this useful stuff with our brains, we have forgotten how to think with our more primal, natural senses. It is about coming forth on equal terms- joining with animals that will allow the greatest respect and understanding between both parties. Animals get this concept btw.... When I meet a horse for example, I am not there to dominate or submit to them- I am only there in friendship to listen to them. Whether it be the most aggressive wolf to the most tame poodle or a friendly street cat- it works the same way. You can never go in assuming anything until you have established a relationship and then AND ONLY THEN true communication can begin.
It saddens me that so many humans are out of touch with these instincts and fail to learn from animals as much as we teach them. Much of society in my experience with nature & various creatures comes from a sense of superiority, entitlement, selfishness or acts of convenience.
When you can feel an animal, they might not always want what you think they want because it's more about you then them. I hate to say it but I see many pets like this and their voices expressing this to me are only getting louder. The owner showers them with affection when rather- they may prefer to be left alone yet the owner fails to acknowledge this because it comes from their own needs not getting met by other humans. There are dogs that do better walking in front of you and dogs that do better walking in back or on the side. The truth is- there is no "one way" but all ways except to injure those involved. You must look at every creature as an individual and different creatures hold different body language but they all hold some things in common: energy, thoughts, souls, intentions & feelings.
I have learned since I was young to be quiet and feel out these situations that may other wise be dangerous. I walk a soft but firm path, set boundaries and help guide animals to a different place of understanding. Perhaps the human is getting in the way of this growth by just the mere lack of improper tools when something else would be better suited. This skill is truly the most crucial- to think with your feelings, your intuition, gut, minds-eye, whatever you want to call it- we all have it inside us to draw upon. Many times pets can get stuck and just need some help communicating so I try to bridge that gap.
I look as these teachers as my equals and they show me things that I need to learn in order to grow as a human being. I feel fortunate that I have sought animals as my friends my whole life but it has come at great cost as I have been more like a lone wolf in life and to help people was like learning a whole new skill set.
With all this said, I really want to communicate to those that are listening that we are in a
great time of change in our world. If parents can teach their children to have a better appreciation for the earth and all it's inhabitants, we will be able to make great changes in the future of humanity. We must lead by example and protect the landscape due to over population and habitat loss for all animals around the globe. Climate change is causing tremendous stress on species fighting for their very survival such as the polar bear and other top predators. I wish there would be some sort of education about these topics in our school system but there isn't. Every day I witness animals suffering great losses to their habitat and fear of these animals causes humans to want to eliminate them. We need to learn how to co-exist peacefully again with Mother Nature. Los Angeles for example has one of the oldest and healthiest populations of coyotes co-existing with humans yet some folks will still call wildlife services or animal control if they merely see a coyote in their neighborhood. As more people try to claim nature as their own (I don't care how much money you make, who you are or all the reasons you can say you own your land...) the land my friends was never ours to begin with and will far surpass your family ownership or claim upon it once you move on from this world. You must know that you are creating homes upon homes that have already existed before you got there. Animals have a far more advanced understanding in this system than us because we expand and spread like a slow burning fire- crushing and killing living things in our wake with bull dozers and pipe lines. Take only what you need and leave the rest... The truest path in life is a simple one.
Goodnight from living with the wolves,
Jennifer

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HELP BUDDY!!!

Posted by jennifer on January 6, 2010.

Re-posting from Facebook:

"On December 30, 2009 between 2:18 am and 4:30 am a German Shepherd named Buddy was dragged to death at the Colorado National Monument. Joan Anzelmo, superintendent of the monument, identified the suspect as Steven Clay Romero, 37, of Grand Junction.

She said Romero is alleged to have stolen the dog -- Buddy, a German shepherd-blue heeler mix -- from people in Delta. He allegedly took the dog to the Colorado National Monument early Wednesday, tied the dog to his truck and dragged the dog. Paw prints in the snow were found to show Buddy at first walking, then running, then dragging, for 3 miles. A surveillance video showed a truck entering the monument at 2:18 am with a dog in the bed of the truck, it showed the same truck leaving at 2:30 with no dog. Witnesses said Romero said he was going to kill the dog, another said he saw Romero leave the residence with the dog.
Romero faces one count of aggravated cruelty towards animals. If convicted, the penalty is a maximum of three years in federal prison and a fine of $100,000, and one year of mandatory parole.

Anzelmo said she believes additional charges may be filed against Romero.

The goal of this group and petition is to see to it that Steven Romero spends every single minute of those three years in jail and a fine of $100,000 plus the one year of mandatory parole.

Should there be any sympathy towards Mr Romero, let me add one thing. According to the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel on Dec 31st, Romero was quoted as saying:
"I don't get it," he said, sitting alone at the defendant's table. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Heldmyer then rose from her seat, walked toward Romero and tossed a copy of the charges on the table in front of him.

Heldmyer told U.S. Magistrate Judge Laird Milburn she will ask for Romero's continued detention during Monday's hearing.

"So, in other words I'll be sitting in jail and probably lose my job, too?" Romero asked Milburn.

"Yes," the judge responded."

Sign the petition sites below- please!!! The petition goal has been increased to 25,000 to present at the Thurs, Jan 7th arraignment, remember - power in numbers! Sign & Share - Thank You!

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/6/demand-justice-for-buddys-killer
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/6/demand-justice-for-buddys

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Knowledge of Nature

Posted by jennifer on November 15, 2009.

As a primitive species I feel we have such an urge to move fast and forward with technology and yet at the same time, forget about the most basic principals to respecting our animals and our earth. It is my belief that the very elements we wish to move beyond, we forget about what got us there. I think we become so wrapped up in our own paths that we forget to stop and smell the roses. Here in lies the path of discovery and teachings of nature...
In order to find oneself, I have taken to the woods to quiet my thoughts, tune in to animals and tune out the sounds of a busy planet constantly on the move. I have taken more to books than television and my only resource at times is my internet to connect with the outside world. I spend everyday hiking alone in the Rockies with my dogs, watching, listening and learning. How we work with nature, can be an unbelievable tool to creating a life of everlasting peace and harmony within oneself and the planet upon which we reside.
The insightfulness of observation, the power of inter-species communication and the teachings of basic morality can form a new relationship- a relationship beyond stress, beyond anxiety, pain, anger, fear and resentment.

These topics are some of the most crucial elements coming into light in the future of our society and some are already here:

- Over population
- Endangered Species
- Lack of habitat
- Climate increase/ Global warming
- Lack of individual responsibility
- Running out of resources

Man has to obtain a greater connection to our past as well as our future. Questions like: How did we get here? and Where are we going? are some of the most thought provoking, unanswered questions that can be obtained through observing all life- not just our own. To better understand this, we must understand how the basic principals of our planet and how the system works. For some, this cause and effect principal is often over looked. Occasionally, remaining "detached" is a way of comfortable and easy life. Everyone however, should feel at peace alone with themselves and no other distractions- truly being "in the moment" on the earth. It is very hard for particular individuals to be comfortable alone with their thoughts. I believe this happens more frequently, the more our technology advances and we become less focussed on our basic elements such as plants, animals, minerals, our ecosystems as well as ourselves. The chatter of TV's, radios, etc. can be an escape from reality. Over population is clearly one of the biggest concerns at this time and threatens all our resources as well as the planet as a whole. Can you imagine a world where water is like oil?
So, what can we do to evolve as a society in a more positive direction? One is to live by example, without the need for materialism, power or self gain. Seek wisdom above all things. I have lived two separate lives. One of being very wealthy and the other being very poor. The later is by far, the most freeing. We need stewardship in environmental concerns and other issues and teach people that it's not just about recycling your plastic bottle- it's much more about how ALL life is connected. The average person does not realize that the fish they eat is due to the wolves that make the elk run, so trees can grow, to provide shade for the stream and cool the temperature for the water in which is suitable conditions for the fish to live. (Trophic Cascade) This is just one example of cause and effect spreading throughout our lives and universe all the way down the line on a daily basis.
I have found that the most important asset to being human is our mind. The power of thought is operating on a different level. Your thoughts are directly connected to results in which you have the power to change. An example of this would be using self-hypnosis, sports psychology and meditation before dealing with an aggressive dog. This mindset is crucial for the animal as well as the person to have positive results obtained.
Body language is universal. Thoughts you place on things are universal. All plants and animals can respond to these universal languages. An example of this was the Japanese scientist who did an experiment labeling bottled water with words and the water changed to different colors dependent upon the word or "thought" projected onto the bottle.
All people have in them a connection to the basic principals of nature though this sometimes has to be "woken up". Everyone has the opportunity to grow spiritually within themselves and we all need to live more truthful, level of existence to obtain responsibility for the world in which we share.
This, I have learned through my surroundings. I have found an equal respect among life in the woods that has taught me great lessons far beyond cell. phones and debit cards. I hope to educate and share with the world a new knowledge of nature.

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Cougar's Fresh Kill Is Wolves Delight

Posted by jennifer on October 4, 2009.

I am sitting at my laptop in front of the wolves enclosure listening to the blues- public radio. I packed my backpack this morning with water, a copy of Walden, two camera lenses and left for the forest. I had Max, Henry, Elvis & Lola and Clide stayed behind because he's getting too old for long journeys. The idea was simple: a three hour hike in the National Forest and an attempt to get to the top of this mountain of which I have gotten many times close to finishing. We were in the thick of it- climbing over rocks and boulders, the wolves playing and I documenting. My legs got some scrapes and I recalled the time when as a child, I got lost in the woods probably not more than 5 years old. I was often curious and searched to far for arrowheads.
The wolves and dogs negotiated fallen trees and big brush like a piece of cake- their feet moved with such precision and their demeanor a happy one.
I came across a 45 Automatic pistol cartridge along with 4 flicker feathers, a rock that I'll sand down and a small hoof from a young deer.
Out on our adventure, we came across a cougar kill. It's fresh leg bones lay scattered about. Max dug up the remaining insides- a chance that the mountain lion was on it's way back for a snack later.
I know these kill sites and knew it was not safe to hang around but in the process as the wolves gorged on skin and bones, I took these pictures. I hope you'll find them as fascinating as I do. In the meantime, after a long journey, everyone is napping as I type.
The wolves & dog's happiness in success in finding a kill site is baffling- The dogs are far less interested in it as the wolves are though they don't mind snacking on a bone. The language & respect to eating is universal. They are at peace while the other one indulges. I am amazed sometimes at the commonalities and just as amazed at such drastic differences.

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Babies And Dogs Make The Same Classic Mistake : NPR

Posted by jennifer on October 4, 2009.

"In addition to drooling and walking on all fours, both young infants and dogs sometimes ignore what they see with their own eyes and instead trust a human "teacher." Dogs may have evolved this ..."

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=112524209

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"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I... I TOOK THE ONE LESS TRAVELED BY, And that has made all the difference." - Robert Frost

Posted by jennifer on September 30, 2009.

Hello Out There~
I have been on the road now for over two weeks traveling everywhere from Los Angeles to Phoenix to the Wet Mountains and Mission: Wolf in Colorado. I am home temporarily as I leave soon to live with the wolves again for a week. Next I'm off to the Gila National Forest to dive into the Mexican Wolf controversy and from there I will hit the Defender's of Wildlife Carnivore Conference. Home seems to be where my suitcase is and going from all different climates, I take a variety of gear including two different sleeping bags, one tent, extra blankets, flip flops and my snow shoes. Then again, I could be hiking in rattlesnake country on the outskirts of Scottsdale. My theory is, I never know just quite where I'll be until I get there.
Included in this blog are photos from today in the mountains near Westcliffe, Colorado. I hope you enjoy them.
Soon, there will be some interesting information here on my website for those thinking about purchasing a wolf or wolf dog. I hope you'll come back to view it as it contains fascinating data regarding behavior, financial responsibility, fencing, etc. After reading it, those thinking about getting a cute, cuddly, wolf puppy may want to reconsider as the implications can sometimes far outweigh the rewards. I am not an advocate of owning these animals as pets but if you are considering adopting an unwanted wolf dog (best case scenario), this is something you should definitely read. My thanks go out to Mission: Wolf for allowing me to put it on the website and also Annie White for re-editing and doing such a fantastic job putting it together.
In the mean time, I finally get to sleep in my own bed. It's such a reward for a long journey in one big loop to L.A., Phoenix, New Mexico and up into Colorado. Home sweet home! "Life is about the journey... Not the destination.."
Best,
JMc

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Jessica Simpson: Coyote Incident

Posted by jennifer on September 16, 2009.

Recently, I received a few e-mails regarding my interview with an US weekly blog. I want to clarify first of all that my heart goes out to Jessica for her loss. Secondly, I want to say that my comment about coyotes not Twittering was not meant to hurt or offend anyone. Living in nature is sometimes a harsh struggle of survival for many animals. As we en-crouch more on their land, the reality of these incidents occurring is happening more and more these days. I hope that this story will help others protect their pets and learn to coexist happily with wildlife...

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A Few More Pics....

Posted by jennifer on September 6, 2009.

Last Trip For Macho At The Grand Canyon:

Snow Shoeing In The Mountains:

Snow Shoeing With Elvis & Lola:

Elvis Tired After A Storm:

My Tent: Yellowstone

My Tent At Mission: Wolf-

Hiking With The Dogs In Winter:

Colorado Blizzard In The Mountains:

Backpacking The Sand Dunes With Sandrine (Friend Dog Trainer From Paris):

California:

Back Country Yellowstone:

Sleeping Under The Stars:

Searching For Tracks:

Dog Sledding: Telluride

Backpacking Sand Dunes With Elvis & Lola:

Snow Angel:

Hiking With Elvis: Colorado

Wolf Research:

Feeding The Dogs:

Back Packing: Colorado

Captive Wolf Research:

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Posted by jennifer on September 2, 2009.

Venice, California:

Se: San Diego-

Johnny Cash: Newest Addition To the Pack-

Juno: Phoenix, Arizona-

Co-Pilot:

Juno: Tired From Road Trip...

Juno At Home In Phoenix:

Sleeping On the Floor In Vegas-

Lola & Elvis In the Woods-

Lola & Elvis In L.A.-

Living With the Wolves: Lola & Max Hunting

Lola & Elvis In The Pond:

Lola Hunting For Mice:

Lola In The Snow:

Snow Face-

Traveling To Save Wolves-

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Back To the Missing Deer...

Posted by jennifer on September 2, 2009.

Upon return, the cat may have moved it to a safer location but then everything else came in from coyotes to Magpies, foxes and ravens. Maybe even a bear had a go at it. Both Henry and Max played tug of war over a deer leg while Lola and Clide chewed on some vetibrae bones. Elvis always on the go, had better things to do. It fascinates me how so many things are similar between wolves and dogs yet some things are drastically different.
We hiked into the forest as I looked over the tree trunks for scratches or signs of fur but nothing. Once again, my eyes scanned the high rocks, trees and talll grass for signs of motion. I pay more attention to my animals for anything out of the ordinary more than I do signs of motion. The wolves tune into prey much quicker than the dogs do. Once the dogs realize the wolves hear something, then they tune into it. This alone has been fascinating.
My cats at home are also great alerters to any thing unusual which brings up an interesting point... Domestic cats are far more closer to their wild cousins in behavior than domestic dogs to wolves. The reason is simply that they haven't been domesticated that long and can thrive on there own being feral after being pets. Dogs can't do this. Dogs are so much more dependent on us. They look to us for not only food but decission making, advice, etc. That's of course if they are a well behaved dog. A dog with dominance or aggression issues will usually take these matters into his own hands which is not good.
Human behavior is as important to look at as any other animal's behavior as we influence them. From the roads we build to the stress in our own lives, animals are affected by us.
It's also important to work with animals from a level to which they operate and are sensitive to- that being intuition or feeling. Never making a decission or judgement until you meet the dog, cat, horse or wolf. I've had to learn this the hard way. No matter how many books I read or videos I watch, it goes out the window on an initial encounter on how I'm going to solve a situation.
Why is it important to teach people about nature? Because people are spreading at a rate so fast outside of cities and beyond that we will be faced with the co-existance questions more and more down the road.

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Pictures, Pictures, Pictures...

Posted by jennifer on September 1, 2009.

In My Tent: Yellowstone

Jeep In the Snow: Colorado

Jeep On the Road- Mission: Wolf

Splash Magazine Photo Shoot: Los Angeles-

Splash Magazine: Los Angeles-

Workin' Like A Dawg-

Mission: Wolf- Fall 2008

McKinley Wolf Transport: 2008

Hangin' Out In the Tipi:

McKinley- Mission: Wolf

McKinley-

Two Story Tipi- Mission: Wolf

Camping With the Dogs: Colorado

Searching For Mountain Lions: Colorado

San Diego-

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"Wolves Do Not Look At You, They Look Through You." - Doug Smith

Posted by jennifer on September 1, 2009.

Living With the Wolves: June 11th, 2009

Today I ventured out for a hike when the sun broke through the dark clouds above. We've had so much rain & snow this spring, their seems to be a ton of water rushing down the rivers, creeks and streams and the grass is growing higher than I've ever seen it. The land is lush, speckled with purple, white and yellow wild flowers. Such a beautiful property here but as I hiked, my eyes scaled the trees, ridges and boulders and I watched for any sign of motion behind bushes in the forest. Although beauty reins, the lion is on the prowl amongst me- probably watching my every move. This feline may be back for lunch upon the kill site and I was headed there alone without refuge from the force of of my canines and wolves which would potentially disturb evidence. I walked and turned often, making sure this predator didn't strike from behind breaking my neck as they so well do. Any kill is potentially dangerous. From cats, to bears, wolves & coyotes- when you put food in the picture, it brings things to a whole different level. Before I got here, the owner of the property had forwarned that the deer lay near the barn. Knowing mountain lions full well- they will return to the kill after a few days to feast or even move the carcass. I searched and I searched- no deer. "That's it." I told myself. "I'm going to get the dogs and wolves." Within a few seconds, the animals took me right to a spot over near a large wood pile. Sure enough, something was killed there. Where did it go? The wolves concentrated on the scent at the scene of the crime. Eventually, Max lost interest and decided instead to catch a near by mouse which he played with, hung out his mouth while it squeeled and swallowed in one gulp as Elvis chased him around for it. If the cat moved the deer, the likely place it would be would be the forest in the center of the property where it could be out of view. However, lions up here use old mine shafts as dens and I've seen 3 shafts thus far in relative proximity. Could it have carried the deer back to it's den? Tomorrow I'll venture where I think the kill may have first occurred. A mountain lion will usually drag the carcass before performing surgery on it. I'm also going to look for any scratch marks on trees there- a signal that this is a male's turf.

In my research into habituation, I picked up the Daily Camera today. There was a story about an Eagle pocher and a bear that wouldn't leave a woman's backyard. I thought it would be a good idea to start keeping track of various animal encounters and try to make headway into the Colorado Division of Wildlife. I will need to take an overview of all animal encounters over the past 20 years with a concentration on coyotes. How has their behavior changed of late and when did this start occuring?

Next I need info. on how many wolves are currently believed to be in Colorado at the moment running wild. How many from Yellowstone vs. How many are thought to possibly being released? Are there any wolves currently in the state? What's happening with the wolf in Steamboat?

Yellowstone used to keep track of every wolf that left the park. Now they no longer do which is a positive sign.

The main question: When will wolves be thriving back in Colorado because we desperatly need them here...

Before I go, a word of advice: Never live your life around a dog. Make them live their life around you.

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More Pictures...

Posted by jennifer on August 31, 2009.

Henry: Boulder-

Henry-

Hiking With the Wolves & Dogs-

Hiking-

On the Road-

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Posted by jennifer on August 31, 2009.

Las Vegas-

Getting Hair Done In L.A.-

Got Snow?

Lola & Elvis In Beverly Hills-

On the Strip...

Elk- Yellowstone

Elmo & Ghandi- Phoenix, Az.

Jumping Out of the Jeep...

Elvis & Mitten-

Elvis & the Wolves-

Elvis & Henry Chasing Max: Living With the Wolves-

Elvis Swimming-

Elvis-

Max Following Elvis-

Elmo & Ghandi- Phoenix

Ghandi-

Grand Teton-

Grizzly: Yellowstone-

Grizzly-

Life On the Road-

Henry & Clide: Boulder

Henry & Elvis: Living With the Wolves

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Posted by jennifer on August 31, 2009.

Cowgirl & Juno- Phoenix

Coyote- Lamar Valley, Yellowstone

Daisy- Mission Wolf, Colorado

Daisy

At Home In Colorado...

Elvis & Lola Searching For Mountain Lion Tracks-

Elvis & Lola Hiking-

In Vegas-

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More Excerpts From My Journal Writing...

Posted by jennifer on August 31, 2009.

What I'm doing with animals acendes many levels. My communication to them is a feeling, sixth sense or psychic connection. I believe this to be true as I feel a lot of things from the core of my being when working with them.
Everything is nothing. Not controlling is freedom when working from an equal plane. Doing things from the feeling creates success. This is how I feel instead of "dominate" or control the situation- it's not written in a book rather a learned mutual conversation whether it be a horse, wolf or dog. - May 22nd, 2009 Hiking Alone In The Woods

Fresh mountian lion kill- deer near barn on property. Second kill within months, same general area. Possible habitual route lion is taking on property. Tomorrow going to kill site to investigate. Fascinating that these kills are taking place so close to the house and this one in broad view. Wondering if lion would have the same response to wolves as the coyote but that us unlikely as it has no fear entering captive wolf territory. Our hikes venture on the property line or outside of it in national forest. Lion kills seem to be more centrally located. Deer seems not as present the same as when my property was occupied by many deer visits until they realized dogs lived there. If lion is consistantly seeing wolves and humans, the potential for attack on an animal other than deer down the road would be likely if this is using as it's hunting grounds.

Going back to the lion that ate 7 dogs and a horse near my home two years ago, eventually killed by a neighbor, Dept. of Wildlife refused to kill such an animal. If a lion is that easily transfering from deer to dogs, cats, a horse, what comes next is a child or a human being. Where do we draw the line in the habituation with wolves and other animals? What constitues killing vs. Protecting? Educating people on how human behavior influences wildlife is key. Hunting may be a nessasary messure to allocate certain predators from uprising too far. Hunting interest has fallen however by 8%? Where do we find co-existance with mother nature is key question. Watching the scales tip could be dangerous: too much love of animals could backfire just as eliminating a predator altogether.

There was another attack by a coyote on a man recently here in Colorado. This is the second attack I've heard about within a matter of 3 months proximity. The way nature is rapidly growing out of allignment without the wolf is evident. However what if the wolf down the road becomes habituated to humans? Can we become friends with this predator and live in harmony is ultimatly a question that will effect the very future of our land. There is the very real possibilty the wolf will loose it's fear of us. - 6/10/09 Living With The Wolves

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Cell. Phone Notes & Quotes...

Posted by jennifer on August 28, 2009.

Running in the rain, sifting back & forth through the Aspen's & Ponderosa Pines, I was one with the beasts of nature.

"In Europe people talk a great deal of the wilds of America but the Americans themselves never think about them; they are insensible to the wonders of inanimate nature and they may be said not to perceive the muighty forests that surround them till they fall beneith the hatchet." - Alexis de Tocqueville

"The most remote location in the lower 48 states is the southeastern part of Yellowstone. There is not another location that will take you more than twenty miles from a road." - Beast In the Garden

"Animals normally flee when exposed to unusual, potentially threatning situations, such as people approaching. However, repeated exposure to such situations, if not followed by negative consequences, may result in an animal that does not flee as readily. Behavioral scientists refer to this warning of response upon repeated exposure to potentially threatning situations as habituation."

- Board of inquiry, 1986 on bear #59 attack in Yellowstone National Park

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Gila National Forest/ Autism/ Feral Children Research: Aug. 27th, 2009

Posted by jennifer on August 27, 2009.

Some people forget to ask the most important questions. I often see humans who look beyond the simple answers. Animals are simplistic. Humans are complicated. There are though many things we share in common. Here in lies the question: If a child raised by animals is so developmentally behind, not socialized around her own kind, what happens to the dog who is raised strictly around humans? Both feral child and dog could be aggressive to their own species. How many traits here do we have in common? What have my experiments taught me about acting like dogs around dogs? These are questions I am answering.
I broke into the Gila National Forest today thanks to Rich :-) (Thank you Rich). I will be heading down there sometime in the next two months. For anyone interested, the L.A. Times wrote an article recently on the over management of the Mexican Gray Wolf: http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-wolves26-2009jul26,0,181839.story
How are these wolves doing affecting the balance of the eco-system since being released? Why are they being stopped from migrating to Arizona?
Speaking of Arizona, does anyone realize how hot it is there? I mean seriously. It's so hot, I have a permanent third degree burn from my seat belt. I guess I'm from the mountains and not used to it but jeeze. I have had to do indoor stuff since arriving for my first trip in August. I am preparing for more filming next month also filming on my own constantly. This video camera is getting a lot of use.
I have seen stuff working with a psychologist and an amazing autistic boy that I can apply around full circle to my work with dogs and wolves.
There are two research projects underway, I'm working consistently on my book proposal and guess what? There's so much info. I think I may have to write two books. Yes two. I think I've been holding out so long from divulging information, that I am over flowing with notes, e-mails, video footage and stories of my documentation.
So here's to day one of my new blogging phenomenon. I hope you'll stick around to enjoy more to come ;-)
Best from Boulder,
Jennifer

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YOU BE THE DOG EXPERT

Posted by jennifer on April 10, 2009.

Do you think the Portuguese Water Dog is a good breed for the Obama's? Why?

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STAND FOR SOMETHING...

Posted by jennifer on March 21, 2009.

It is with great disappointment that I remind everyone that on March 6th, 2009, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced he will follow former President Bush's plan to de-list wolves from the Endangered Species Act in Idaho and Montana. This is an enormous hit to our brother and sister wolves. Honestly, I haven't really known what to say- the weight of the situation seemed too large to just post on a blog. In my heart, I know that these animals are not fully re-covered. As I type, I know there are people out there who have probably already shot bullets into my friends heads in the wild. It is my hope to bring education to people that these animals are a great neighbor to have, nothing to fear and a fantastic and necessary predator. They help restore balance to our hurting ecosystem and their lives resemble that of our human families. If you meet a wolf, it will change your life forever. So smart, so quiet, so spiritual and intelligent. Their howls are the songs of nature. Since everyone seems to be going green, there is nothing greener than restoring the balance in Mother Nature. Green is the grass that grows green but the land and it's creatures are what really needs help right now. Restoring our ecosystems is restoring balance to what has been a vast human destruction.
In this tough economic time, I'm asking those that can to write letters to Secretary Salazar. If you can give money, Defenders of Wildlife is working very hard on this issue. You can visit them here: http://www.defenders.org/programs_and_policy/wildlife_conservation/imperiled_species/wolves/ I hope you too will be inspired for change and give a voice to the most majestic animal one could ever meet. Please help out your dog's ancestors- they really need it right now...
Thank you!
All my best,
Jennifer

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Ashley Judd Speaks Out Against Sarah Palin To Help Save Wolves!

Posted by jennifer on February 7, 2009.

Ashley Judd speaks out with Defenders of Wildlife against Sarah Palin's new campaign to slaughter hundreds of wolves. Sarah Palin is now proposing a $150 bounty for the foreleg of each wolf slaughtered. Watch this video to see more and PLEASE do your part to help Defenders save the wolves of Alaska. Remember, wolves naturally keep the eco-system in balance....

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BREAKING ENTERTAINMENT NEWS!

Posted by on January 23, 2009.

JENNIFER JUST SIGNED A MAJOR CONTRACT WITH A PRODUCTION COMPANY!!! STAY TUNED FOR MORE GREAT NEWS TO COME!

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NEWS ALERT: Wolves De-listed From Endangered Species Act...

Posted by jennifer on January 16, 2009.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has just announced that wolves in the Northern Rockies and Great Lakes area will be removed from the Endangered Species Act. Wolves that reside in Wyoming however, will remain listed as endangered.
To read the full article, visit: http://www.wolf.org/wolves/news/live_news_detail.asp?id=3674

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Bush Greenlights Yellowstone Wolf Slaughter.... Again.

Posted by jennifer on January 15, 2009.

BREAKING NEWS FROM DEFENDERS OF WILDLIFE....

"Friends,

With just days left in power, the Bush/Cheney Administration today announced another outrageous eleventh-hour attempt to eliminate vital protections for wolves in the Northern Rockies, including Greater Yellowstone.

More than 1,000 wolves could be killed as a result!

Defenders of Wildlife is already calling on the incoming Obama Administration and Congress to overturn this last-minute attack on our wolves. And our lawyers stand ready to take immediate legal action to challenge the latest delisting of wolves in the Northern Rockies region.

To prevail in these efforts, we need plenty of support from folks like you. Please consider making a donation to help support our Greater Yellowstone Wolf Defense Fund and other wildlife-saving efforts. You can contribute online at the website below:

http://action.defenders.org/savewolvesdon

Whether you can donate $5,$10,$25, or nothing at all today, please stay tuned in the days ahead for more information about how you can help save wolves in the Northern Rockies and safeguard other wildlife.

As always, thanks for caring..."

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FINDING BALANCE WITH NATURE: PROTECTING THE WORLD’S MOST ENDANGERED SPECIES AND ECOSYSTEMS

Posted by jennifer on December 29, 2008.

Balance on earth, the very land that we inhabit is threatened daily by the downfall in climate change and the world’s eco-systems. A large part of this threat affects life as we know it and our number one predators are falling off the map. Most people don’t realize the affects animals have exactly on our environment and why they are so important. For example- the oldest predator in the world- the shark, has been wiped out by 90% due to shark fining and over fishing. What does that mean if we loose that predator to the ocean? Well, it can have drastic results. We need the ocean to produce oxygen so we can breathe. If we loose the shark, no one knows what will happen in the fall of the collapse of the ocean but sure enough, this will have a devastating impact to humanity as a whole. Usually when a predator is removed (as witnessed with the wolf population in Yellowstone National Park), many other organisms and species are affected. When the wolf is not present to move herds of elk, the elk stop moving- therefore they are not irrigating the grass with their hooves. When they are standing still, they are eating up new cottonwood, aspen and willow trees near the rivers so the landscape is affected and these new trees stop growing. Yellowstone has been a big experiment in ecology of recent times. By having had the wolf removed for seventy years due to the human act of eliminating what we fear and do not understand, we are essentially witnessing the affects on an already established eco-system backwards by re-introducing a top predator. So why are these trees by the rivers so important? Because they cause shade over the water which cools the temperature down and provides favorable conditions for trout. The results go all the way down the line. In fact, I could do an hour explanation on the affects at Yellowstone just because of one single predator being re-introduced. This great ecology experiment has been historical- we have never before witnessed this.
The elk population in Yellowstone has significantly decreased but this is actually a good sign. You see, once a creature gets out of control with nothing to bring their numbers down, it has devastating affects to everything around it. Now bring in the human being as a predator who’s numbers have significantly gotten out of control. What’s happening is over consumption of earth’s resources. It’s the same thing as the trees not growing next to the rivers anymore. Our oceans are being polluted, our wildlife is being killed off, and mass consumption of oil and natural elements lead us to such things as global warming causing the ice burgs to melt and Polar Bears without a home and the list goes on. You can see the chain effect…
I am a firm believer in the Native American’s belief’s and respect to all life. Yes, I eat meat but I don’t eat at McDonald’s. Friends of mine will buy into a local farm raised, grass eating cow that lives a wonderful life. I am a predator but that meat is not only less expensive but will last me all year. The animal is raised naturally living a wonderful life. There is no waste in the Native American culture. An animal that is killed for food- every part of that animal is used. Traditional Native American’s will also bless an animal before killing it. They will use the fur to keep warm, the skull as a ceremony piece, horsehair to make pottery or earrings, etc. Every piece- not wasted.
As an advocate for wildlife and a researcher into wolf and dog behavior, I’ve met some very interesting people along the way. I have met those that are all or nothing, radical in their thinking and some that live lives that portray their passion in beliefs in a way similar to my own. I am a believer that nature should work as intended. That means, if you want to hunt an animal, you hunt to eat or to feed your family for a year. Which means you hike into a forest on your own to feet, you follow and study a heard and you drag that meat out possibly over two miles to bring it home. If you shoot a pack of wolves in an airplane, or go out with your buddies to go hunting for sport, don’t look for my support in any way, shape or form. I was recently passing by a store in Estes Park, Colorado. They have a stuffed wolf being displayed in their window. There was a card that said something to the affect that this particular wolf came from Russia and was rare though not an endangered species. If this animal were rare, why would you kill it, stuff it and display it for all to see? They also have a moose head on the wall, a stuffed lynx and the list goes on. Is this what we want our children to see? When they look back at us, won’t they think of us as barbaric?
Some of the greatest life lessons taught to me have been through nature. I live my life similar to what wolves have taught me in the wild. Wild earth holds many life lessons. We sit here today at such a monumental time. Our economy has gone down the tubes, many have lost jobs and can’t afford the luxuries that they once have. That means more homeless people on the streets, more people getting down to the basics again and rebuilding. Change is on the rise. It is here and it is now if we want it.
The interesting thing about the shark and the wolf is that they are actually very shy animals. A wild wolf has never attacked one human being in the course of history. The shark doesn’t tear off a human’s flesh to eat for dinner. It investigates. On the very rare occasion to figure out what we are, it may bite to investigate but the statistics show that the majority of bites do not cause severe injury or death. Yes, dogs kill more people than sharks do.
I have dove in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans with sharks. I have studied them. I have been within feet in the Great Barrier Reef of a large nurse shark, I’ve dove with tiger sharks in Florida and dove the lava tubes in Maui with the white tip reef sharks. I appreciate their elegance, movement, sensory perception and intellect. Why should we fear these creatures? Well, with movies such as Jaws and the media’s portrayal of the big, bad wolf in the water- we have every reason to be fearful. It’s funny though- I’ve put myself in a school of sharks and I never was bit once.
The fear of the shark is the same as the fear of the wolf. We fear what we do not understand and we kill what we fear. Little Red Riding Hood was a favorite book of mine growing up. So was Curious George. I loved them both but not that many people are afraid of monkeys. Is it the big teeth that the wolf had in the book to eat Little Red Riding Hood with? In fact, more people cause injury to other people than wild animals do. Did you know that the highest injuries (90%) that are caused to women are due to domestic violence? How many man made drugs kill people everyday? I have a feeling a lot more than the shark, wolf or mountain lions do combined. Media creates the monsters that live in our closets.
In order to get along with us, sharks, wolves, etc. have developed a fear of humans. But they do not posses fear and then kill us because of it. Only humans do that. They have developed ways in which to learn to avoid us. It’s nearly impossible to get close to a wolf in the wild. They don’t want anything to do with people because we have killed so many of them for so long. So who are the intelligent animals here? To me, we sound like we are not intelligent at all. Sometimes too intelligent to pass up the simplicities of life on earth by always needing to create bigger, better, faster and more intelligent things. Let’s look into the future- backwards by respecting life, protecting our environments and resources.
I find that it doesn’t take an army to create change. It only takes the will of a small population of people. What gives rise to this is a better situation in the future for everyone. We are not God and we shouldn’t play God. If we change ourselves by just a few people, we will create the change that is needed in the world. We have not been here as long as the shark or the wolf so let’s look to them for the advice for they ones that have been here before us.
In 2009 you will soon see a fund headed by World Class Dog Training to help wolves in horrible conditions being kept as pets, to educate the media and the public on why animals are so important to our eco-systems, and to restore and protect the wolf as a species. I urge everyone to think about the animals that we fear and destroy. Whether it is elephants, polar bears or sharks- too many of these animals are without a voice and our planet is suffering. They need your help. In the meantime, please see Defenders of Wildlife (www.defenders.org) for more information on how you can make a difference. Remember- it doesn’t take an army to create the change that you want to see in the world.

"When the Earth is sick, the animals will begin to disappear, when that happens, The Warriors of the Rainbow will come to save them." — Chief Seattle

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The Best Dog & Owner Video You'll Ever See. "Gin- The Dancing Dog"

Posted by jennifer on December 21, 2008.

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Dogs in Movies / Puppies As Presents

Posted by jennifer on December 21, 2008.

Sandy, Hollywood, California...

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For those of you going out to the movies this holiday season, be sure to check out the upcoming furry flicks: "Marley & Me" based on the best Selling book by John Grogan and the film, "Hotel For Dogs" based on another book by best selling author, Lois Duncan.
I wanted to take some time to talk about a few things that we see in the dog industry as a result of animal films. Sometimes (such as in the case of 101 Dalmatians), when people see a film about cute cuddly puppies, or dogs, they go out and purchase or adopt one without thinking of the responsibility, time, money and long term care a dog needs. Unfortunately, many of these animals are given up to local shelters, turned loose on the streets or not given the proper care and devotion that they require. I urge everyone to take the same type of approach when purchasing or adopting a dog, puppy, kitten or cat as a present. These gifts can sometimes come with many hazards. Many people buying or adopting a dog spur of the moment, fail to look at the right dog for their particular environment, age of child, exercise routine and long term financial planning. Having a pet in any form is a responsibility so I urge everyone to really think long and hard about bringing in a new addition to their family. If well planned out, the right dog should enhance your life, not hinder it and proper and responsible pet ownership is the key to success.
Also, this goes without saying but PLEASE do not purchase a wolf or a hybrid this holiday season. Do your part to help keep nature wild. For wolf or hybrid help, please contact Mission: Wolf at: www.missionwolf.com.
Now onto the good stuff... Here's a homework assignment for you. If you go out to see Marley & Me, ask yourself how you would go about fixing the problems that took place in the film. Labs can be very destructive puppies and really good hunting dogs require a lot of exercise. So here's your chance to be the dog trainer. I'm looking for someone that can solve ten behavior problems and training issues that occur in the movie. The first person who can e-mail me the answers will get a 20% discount on your next dog training session! (This is also a trick to see who is reading my blog... LOL)
As I say to all my clients, it is YOUR job to be the trainer. It's YOUR duty to understand your animals as they think. It's selfish of us to expect them to only understand our way of thinking. Relating to your dog as another dog, putting together all the pieces of the puzzle, never getting stuck in one way of thinking are all keys to the secret of success. Remember that dogs are simple, we are complex. There is a lot your dog can teach you about living in the moment and appreciating all elements of life at this time of year. If you are out there alone during the holidays, pick up your leash and your best friend will come running. I'm sure he or she could go for a good walk! I'm never alone with my dogs, cat and fish no matter where I am or how far I travel. They are always with me.
Best wishes for a happy and safe holiday season...
Jennifer

Fact: In the movie "Hotel For Dogs", ninety dogs were used to create this film.

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Dog in need....

Posted by on August 26, 2008.

Hello everyone~

Our friends at Mission:Wolf recently informed us of a "wolf-dog" in need. Here is his information: wolf/German Shepherd

Please feel free to pass this on to anyone you know who has experience dealing with difficult cases such as this, or if you know of a rescue capable of handling such an unusual situation.

Dogs like these require caution, as well as all of the experience and understanding we can give them. Thank you in advance for any help.

I hope this finds you all doing well and enjoying the close of summer!
~Audra

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Fed's Considering Moving Wolves Off Endangered Species Act

Posted by jennifer on March 19, 2008.

Defenders just launched a new blog to give people a place to talk about the federal government's decision to remove Endangered Species protections for wolves in the Greater Yellowstone region.

You'll hear up-to-the-minute news from staff on the ground in Idaho and Montana and from special guests.

Join the conversation: Check out My Yellowstone Wolves:

http://myyellowstonewolves.typepad.com/

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U.S. Military Soldiers Throw Puppies Off Bridge For Bragging Rights

Posted by jennifer on March 4, 2008.

A fellow Myspace animal friend just informed me of this and I thought I'd put it out there for everyone to read. Without saying, this is extemely disturbing but would these soldiers find this fun back in the U.S. or is this relevent to the stress that these guys are under? Thoughts? I am deeply saddened on every level that these innocent puppies were killed because of the sick actions of these soldiers and there should be some ramifications from it.

"Well apparently two U.S soldiers killed an innocent puppy by throwing it over a bridge in Iraq. The two soldiers proudly bragged about the puppy's death and even recorded it. The video is on the petition site if you have the heart to watch it. As a U.S. citizen and an active duty marine's wife I can say this is absolutly sick! This type of torture to animals can not be disregarded! There are bad people everywhere but, they do not do not belong in our millitary around weapons. The millitary is not trained to be so careless with a life they are trained to protect. Please click on the link below and sign the petition to encourage the U.S Army to give these two "heros" a dishonorable discharge. The millitary is a place for heros and people who care about protecting the innocent. I support our millitary 100% but, these two jerks need to go. They do not deserve to wear those uniforms and be called U.S. soldiers!
Fight for what is right! I would not want my husband or anyone other millitary member to be deployed and put in a unit with these puppy murdering creeps."

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My Thoughts On Your Thoughts About Breeding Dogs (Posted From My Myspace Page)

Posted by jennifer on March 4, 2008.

There was such a great feedback about this topic that I had to congratulate all of you for getting involved and voicing your opinion (whichever that may be). As I said before, we can all learn from each other. Truly, this isn't a black and white issue. It should be thought about with great care as we all love dogs so very much. The concept of restrictions being made in regards to breeding is a great concept. 1) Because it will allow responsible breeding preserving the breed integrety. Many breeds have been ruined with health and temperment problems galore thanks to the unfortunate business of puppy mills and people that are breeding their dog to their neighbor's just for the hell of it. 2) It will promote responsible pet ownership and weed out those that want to breed fighting dogs, etc. evan though that is still somewhat of an under ground business. (Hey! Am I the only one on Myspace that can't believe how many Pit Bull fighters are on here that are advertising and show pics. of their dogs fighting?!) 3) Where my family is from in Germany, the breeding restrictions are so high that you may not get a permit if you have had any previous altercations with the law, your facility must be inspected and include all the necessary ingredients to welp pups, your home must be properly fenced in AND someone comes to your house to inspect at any time that you are following the law. Now that's what I call a good program. 4) Suppose the AKC started testing dogs in not only looks but temperament? If you went to the Sieger show in Germany, you would see that looks are only a PORTION of what they judge in the ring. The dogs must perform bite work and complete an endurance test. Is anyone aware of how many dogs are put to sleep on a daily basis in the U.S. because of poor temperaments? Lastly, and my final thought is this: Educating people is the number one way to helping our animals today. Unfortunatly, humans have distorted the wolf all the way to the minature Daschund and beyond. The more we mix and match a lot of these dogs that were never suppose to be developed this way in the first place, the more problems we'll have. Take for example the Bulldog. With it's many physical problems, it's hard to find one that will never have any issues. My mini Daschund just got two teeth pulled and he's only 3! Because little dog's mouths are so cramped for space, their teeth can have horrible problems. There aren't roots long enough to support strong healthy jaws like the wolf or the bigger breeds. Then we have the back problems... Don't get me started on that one. Anyway, I think it's so important for people to rescue dogs and I think if you are wanting a certain breed, you need to go to a responsible and reputable breeder. A good way to find one is to research the top dogs in the show ring these days. Check out who's winning at Madison Square Garden or some other national best in breed shows and contact a few before you make your decission. Fostering a dog first can be a good test run that can also benefit the dog in another home so long as you make an effort to assist in helping that dog through training, socialization, etc. There are so many dogs that need homes out there so if you can do it, head to the animal shelter. My dogs work for me- each one has a specific job. My three shepherds are all working dogs along with Jack the mini Daschund. Jack I actually got to help keep prarie dogs off my property here in Colorado because he can easily fit into their holes and he loves doing it! Even my cat who I rescued has a couple of jobs. She works for me with dogs doing distraction training (yes, she's trained too- lol) and she catches tons of mice around the barn. All and all, I think this is a fantastic issue to talk about and I'm pleased to hear everyone's input. Keep it up and keep those comments coming! All my best, Jennifer :-)

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My Thoughts On Breeding Dogs

Posted by jennifer on February 26, 2008.

You know, I have so many shelter dogs as clients these days which is on one hand fantastic that these dogs are being rescued left and right. I have other clients who choose to pay for expensive dogs and have gotten what they paid for in temperment and well-bred physical traits. The problem is unfortunatly, there are a lot of people who either disagree with breeding as a whole or people who are not responsible in keeping the good breeders in business and the bad ones out of service. Growing up around dog and horse people all my life, I don't know if there is any other field that brings upon so many arguments, so many rights and so many wrongs. Everyone always has to know something more than the guy ahead of him. Truthfully, we are not dogs. We are human which can be the biggest downfall and yet at the same time, be the greatest gift.
Instead of banning responsible breeders as a whole, concentrate on the puppy mills and pet shops that are ruining these breeds. If you are not in need of a dog with a particular purpose, go out and rescue one. My rescued street cat is that best cat I think I ever met and she even helps me at work!
Unless we are going to go back to a primitive state with wolves, breeds of dogs are always going to be here. Shelter dogs will always be here, feral dogs are on the rise and with the economy and housing market these days, people are abandoning not only their house but their pets too!
If we are to make breeders responsible, make co-existing with these animals from the streets to our bedrooms, it starts at the goverment level. It starts with responsible pet ownership, responsible breeding, laws and not a black & white attitude. Well bred dogs that serve a particular purpose are remarkable. They assist with everything from assisting the blind to taking down a suspect. I have also seen mutts from the humane society appear in car commercials, be wonderful best friend's to kids growing up and remarkably save an owners life by detecting cancer. A dog is a dog is a dog.... But a human can always open their mind to learning and improving from everyone else to make the lives of the animals we long ago created, the greatest.

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NEWSDAY: How Come A Wolf's Howls Aid Canine Communication?

Posted by jennifer on February 11, 2008.

How come: A wolf's howls aid canine communication
BY KATHY WOLLARD | Special to Newsday
February 4, 2008

How come wolves howl? asks Christina Scammon, a student in Holtsville.

If you were hiking in the woods and got separated from your friends, would you yell out their names? If two of you became separated from the rest of the group, would you both yell louder and longer, feeling braver and less self-conscious? Would you find it especially satisfying if your yells echoed off rock formations, magnifying your efforts?

Of course, if you and your pals brought your cell phones - and they worked in the middle of nowhere - then you wouldn't need to yell. But wolves don't carry mobile phones (and just try to imagine punching those tiny buttons with that big paw). So howling comes in handy.

Wolves hang out in packs of about five to seven, although groups can be smaller or larger. Each pack usually lives and hunts on its own territory, which may cover from less than 20 to hundreds of square miles, depending on the pack size and the land available for roaming. Wolves bark, yip, growl and whimper, just like domesticated dogs. But although some dogs howl occasionally, wolves howl more frequently and elaborately, either alone or in chorus.

Scientists who have studied wolves - recording and analyzing howls, observing behavior, broadcasting prerecorded howls and noting reactions - say howling helps a pack stick together and fend off rivals.

Some studies show howling increases before the breeding season, when animals pair off to mate. The howling may drop off sharply when pups are born, with adult wolves keeping a lower profile to protect pups from predators. Howling increases when wolf pups are several months old.

One study in Poland found that wolves did most of their howling between 6 p.m. and midnight. They tended to howl when they were in the center of their territories rather than on the more dangerous boundaries. The researchers estimated that 43 percent of the howls were back-and-forth yells between separated pack mates.

About 22 percent of the howling was a noisy buildup to setting off on a hunt. Howls by lone wolves or pairs lasted about 34 to 40 seconds. But group howling went on for one to nearly four minutes.

Wolves seem to recognize other pack members by their individual howls even at long distance, just as we recognize the voices of friends, relatives and classmates on the phone or from across the street. Though most howling is communication within a pack, wolves also howl to publicize their presence to other packs.

Wolves howling in chorus frequently vary the pitch of their sounds. As the ever-changing mix echoes, it makes the group seem bigger, helping wolves avoid a nasty fight with another pack.

One study noted that wolves use howling as a spacing mechanism. When they are at home in an established territory, howling marks their settlement. Howling also signals packs to give each other a wide berth when migrating.

To hear and see wolves using howling to communicate, visit pbs.org/wgbh/nova/wolves/ howl.html.

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MAKE IT A GREAT NEW YEAR. GIVE SOMETHING BACK TO THE WILD.

Posted by jennifer on January 3, 2008.

So many people ask me what is going on today in the world of wolves. What are the big issues, how can I help, etc. are some common questions I'm asked. If you really want to know and see what's going on on the front lines, check out this video of ariel wolf hunting in Alaska. Most people don't realize that wolves are being masacered on a daily basis by hunters who do not walk the earth but rather fly and shoot as if it's just like playing a video game in your living room. REMEMBER- WOLVES ARE AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE ECO-SYSTEM. Their existance on this earth is crucial in some parts of the world to maintain the health and herd size of other animals which transfers all the way down the eco-system- to the grass, trees, and possibly even the food that you eat! Do mother nature a favor, your kids and grandkids a favor. Do something selfless this year. Help save the existance of wolves in Alaska...

Check out the video here!

TAKE ACTION and urge Governor Palin to end aerial hunting of wolves today!

Thank you and have a happy and healthy New Year!

All my best,
Jennifer

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Unleashing The Wolf Within

Posted by on November 18, 2007.

I've heard a few reports now that members of the Boulder County K-9 Unit and a couple of people have seen two wolves running through the woods at night up in the mountains here. I wouldn't be surprised if there were- certain people like myself are waiting for more wolves to arrive from Yellowstone. Unfortunatly, our first arrival was hit by a car on a major highway through Colorado. Those that can make their escape through the hunters that sit and wait for them on the boundry lines of Yellowstone will be of the lucky few that have traveled far away from their original destination.
I feel, like a wolf that my original destination is ever changing and growing into something far, far away from where I started 12 years ago. The forests that I've lurked in at night, the stars that shed light on my back and the mud beneith my paws are like tests of my ability to survive in the outer limits far away from my den. I have managed to out smart predators, stalk my prey, raise five pups and now all this has led me to where I sit today.
I'm very excited to get closer everyday to the dream I have of being a voice our for fellow canid species. I hope everyone out there doesn't forget the millions of shelter animals that are sitting waiting to be adopted and not euthanized. I hope that all of you also don't forget about the wolf- our greatest teacher whom we have killed and prosecuted over the years based on fear, selfishness, money and fun.
If you would like to help a wolf survive as a nessasary and valuable part of our eco-system, please check out some of the following orginizations:

MISSION: WOLF-

Mission:Wolf is a peaceful wolf sanctuary located in the remote mountains of Colorado that is open to anyone. To ensure the wolf's survival in the wild lands of the United States, Mission:Wolf accepts donations and has an online store - with proceeds to educate the public about wolves and the importance of habitat protection.
Check them out! @ www.missionwolf.com

DEFENDERS OF WILDLIFE-
Protection for Endangered Species
www.defenders.org

INTERNATIONAL WOLF CENTER-
www.wolf.org

YELLOWSTONE WOLF PROJECT-
Donations: www.ypf.org/donate/wolfcollar.asp
Education: www.yellowstonewolves.org

Thanks for your support. It is greatly appreciated and much needed :-)
All my best,
Jennifer

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Ringside.

Posted by jennifer on October 17, 2007.

I don't know what came over me but sitting ringside, it was hard to even look anymore. Was it me? Why was my heart half way down my chest? I knew why... I was watching a 4 month old American-bred German Shepherd collapsing in his back end and trying desperatly to run down the ring and keep up with the handler. He couldn't though. He kept falling & tripping she had to wait for him to get up & keep running. It was horrible.
I came to this show to see the best of the best of American bred German Shepherds. This is the National Championship afterall. What I got walking out was a heavy heart for this puppy that was so deformed, he couldn't even run. Maybe my dog show days are over. So much has changed since I started working with wolves. A life of a show dog is not a desired life of a dog. It's many days in a crate on the road and with a busy handler, that means not a lot of attention. Sure they are fed, grromed, given some exercise, bathroom walks, etc. but once they enter that ring it's as if they have been cooped up for days. It really and truly breaks my heart with this particular breed. I grew up with them, went to the shows that our dogs were in, my Mom even owned a dog from the famous Covy Tucker Hills line but all has changed since I moved away. The first dog I ever bought out of college was Macho. The name says it all... An ENORMOUS German Bred Shepherd who would not only put his life infront of me, his litter mate bit seven people and put 5 in the hospital. When Macho bit someone, he wouldn't let go. I will say this- he taught me the most out every dog I've ever worked with. I've never had a more aggressive dog or case for that matter than Macho. I did get him over it but if he didn't like you, there was always a reason...

My family in Germany has been involved in the breed since the 1940's. They have titled, owned and trained more German Shepherds than I could imagine in Schutzhund training (Schutzhund dogs are tested in three phases- tracking, obedience & protection). I guess what I saw today was a breed that over the years has increasingly gone down hill. I'm talking about the American Shepherd- not the German bred.... There's a big difference. What I have seen over the years is more slant in the back end which causes tremendous discomfort to the dog, more chances of hip dysplasia and other joint related problems in the future.
I love all dogs- every bad, mean, dis-figured, rescued, abused or highly bred last one of them. However, I have a different perspective now on dog shows.
You see, when you are in the world of showing dogs, nothing is more important than the win. Oh man, do people love to win best in breed, best in show, group- whatever. I think though, that for some people (not everyone), it becomes just about "the win" which becomes just about "My dog looks better than yours."
I think my soul, my heart and every once of me felt sick today because I saw humans making a very dis-figured creature. Like I said, I've changed since moving to Colorado. I live on 5 acers near the Rocky Mountains. My dogs live a life most dogs would dream of and every crate I passed had the eyes of a soul saying "this isn't fun." "Winning" to a dog isn't fun. Winning to a human is. These dogs did not show pleasure running around the ring. They didn't show willingness to be "stacked". They were saying "Where's my ball- let's go play- let's go work- let's hike up a mountain- let's attack bad guys- let's run through a tunnel or please just tell me to sit!" This wasn't a job. This was pointless to the Shepherd. Imagine getting groomed non-stop, sitting in a crate and taken out at the last minute to a ring where you are being placed, touched, whistles blown at to get their ears up, everything and then just asked to run. "Run?" Says the Shepherd.... "RUN?!" I can do that in my sleep. Give me something a little more challenging than a beauty pagent and you may see my ears go up all on their own."
I honestly think that dog shows aren't for me anymore. I'm upset at what humans are doing to these breeds. It really makes you think when you spend time with wolves how these dogs came to be. Even the little one's. Even Jack- my mini Daschund who's as long as a string bean.
I think today I realized that the path I'm on with animals is a great one and has far exceeded my expectations. Quite honestly, I finally feel like I've reached a whole new level and Colorado has been so good for me. This is about the dog, not about the breed. This is about preserving what we already have for the benefit of the animal to live a mentally & physically healthy life and not about "what looks good". Slant hips so far down looks like this is not a good direction to go in. Interestingly enough, when that puppy ran around the ring the crowd kept cheering loudly. Not because the pup got up and kept running, because they liked the way he looked.
Thanks for reading,
JMc

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The Pit Bull Problem Video

Posted by jennifer on September 25, 2007.

This is a video every adult should see. Maybe for those that think that "banning a breed" is the solution to every dog problem, we should think about the people who are creating the beast. Dogs are not monsters- However, people like Michael Vick and those that think that torturing, abusing and training dogs to fight other dogs for sport are.
I urge you to take the time to watch this video and pass it along...

www.youtube.com/watch?v=xeuy_PBlqz8

"When asked what he thinks people's reactions will be when they learn of his account of Vick's involvement in dogfighting, the source was nonplussed.

"They shouldn't be really upset, OK?" he said. "Because it's only just an animal. It's just a dog that is raised up. He's put out there, you know, and he's chained up, OK. And the time he gets a certain age, this dog is going to want to fight. It is bred in him, OK? He knows what he is and he's going to fight. Just take him off the leash, let him go." - ESPN.COM, May 31st, 2007

Best,
JMc

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