Scoops the Dog Blog

Therapy Dogs United Helps Grant Wish for Erie Senior in Need

2011-12-05T12:16:00.000-08:00

Therapy Dogs United was blessed to be part of a pre-holiday wish granted to an elderly senior through the Twilight Wish Foundation, Erie Chapter. Read the full story online here.

Therapy Dogs In School Rule!

2011-10-27T09:55:00.000-07:00

Dogs in school rule and our therapy dogs know it! Check out this picture of Jet ~ she goes to Davis Primary School in North East on a regular basis, and today she was invited to ride on a school bus as the kids headed out on a field trip!

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Therapy Dogs United

2011-04-28T10:33:00.000-07:00

The clock is ticking to yet another "Be Kind to Animals Week" celebration with your friends at Therapy Dogs United! This year our Celebrity Bartending event is Thursday, May 5th at Under the Clock (101 Boston Store Place) in downtown Erie. The fun gets underway at 5 p.m. with a special greeting and photo opportunity with one of our 10 select Canine Ambassadors! Highlights include auction items, 50/50 raffle, door prizes and free mardi gras beads for everyone! Drink and appetizer specials available at Under the Clock all night long. Please join us and show your support for our team of dedicated therapy dog volunteers.

2010-10-13T15:09:00.000-07:00

Penney has been adjusting to her new home in State College very well. Every Saturday she gets dressed in her PSU gear to support our football team. She is quite the little cheerleader!

Whenever we have extra time we practice her tricks. So far she is having some trouble with the hula hoop jumping. She'll walk through it a million times but as soon as I lift it higher for her to jump she looks at me like I'm crazy and walks away. If anyone has any ideas on how to get her jump I would love to hear your advice.
As far as her sign language and reading goes, she is a genius. (I'm beginning to think shes a book worm, not an athlete) She has perfected her English words so well that she is now beginning to learn Spanish! Sientate (sit) Bajate (down) Mano (paw). Sad to say Penney is going to be trilingual before I'm even bilingual :)!

On October 31st, Halloween, Pen will be celebrating her 1st birthday dressed as a little devil. With Penney turning one she will soon be eligible to take her Therapy Dog exam. I am very excited because we have been working so hard and she has perfected almost all of the requirements to pass. I cannot wait for her to officially be part of this organization, and on her way to doing what she does best. Making people in need of a smile, laugh.

Penney

2010-08-12T15:02:00.000-07:00

Life with Penney is such a joy! She is a total goof ball and has the most hilarious personality. She loves to be the center of every ones attention. When shes not she knows how to get all eyes on her by wiggling her bottom and jumping up and down like a jumping jack. She is always making a silly face whether her top lip is stuck under her bottom teeth or the tip of her tongue is hanging out. She loves to be loved. She always wants to be near you and loves to be petted or snuggled.

For being deaf she is an exceptional listener. Not to speech of course, but to sign language. She has learned the commands for sit, stand up, lay down, stay, come, no, 'go potty' and her favorite 'good girl' (which is "spirit fingers," this turns her into an excited wiggle worm) She has also caught on very fast to the house rules of sitting before you go outside or come in and before eating. Since she has caught on so well to everything I have taught her thus far I am continuing with many new tricks.

Inspired by Therapy Dogs Padame and Blaze I am going to begin teaching her how to read. Therapy dog handler Tammy Baker floored me when she showed me how she taught her standard poodles Padame and Blaze to read one word commands such as sit, stay, down, off, come. I instantly thought that this would be an awesome ability for Penney. Another trick we are working on steamed from what I originally thought to be Penneys worst attribute, jumping. Blocking the dogs from entering the dinner room is a baby gate. While eating dinner one night Penney deiced that that baby gate was NOT going to stop her from begging and in one leap she cleared the gate and was siting at my feet. Since she has began jumping over everything, including Pete! At first I hated the fact that she could jump so high but then I got the idea of how to use this ability- Hula hoop jumping. Just yesterday I bought her a pink hula hoop and our training will begin soon.

I am happy to announce that Penney has been granted permission by the Barber Center Senior Center to practice socialization. Starting tomorrow she will begin her official training for her Therapy Dog exam by visiting the Seniors. I am so excited to finally get her out interacting with people. She is well on her way to becoming an official member of this organization. I know she is going to be a wonderful addition and is going to touch so many individuals lives. She is an outstanding little girl.

Pete 'n Penney

2010-06-23T17:05:00.000-07:00

On a rainy day in March of 2008 I was blessed with a miracle when a wet and hungry little brown and white boy showed up at my door step. It was love at first sight. I took the hungry boy in and from the moment he walked inside it was obvious that he had stumbled upon his forever home. I named him Peter, but what I should have named him was shadow because since that rainy day in March he has never left my side. He follows me everywhere I go, no matter where I go; I am beginning to wonder if I will ever have privacy when I pee again!

To some this may sound pathetic, but I am honest when I say that my American Bulldog, Petey, is my best friend. We even have best friend key chains; mine on my keys and his on his collar. Nothing makes me happier then when I come home to his wagging tail and wiggly excited body. He is the apple of my eye.

There has never been a time when I thought that I would want to add another pup to my life. What’s the point? No dog could ever compare to my man Pete! Well let me tell you, I was wrong., because on June 19, 2010 I found a pure white little girl. Just as it was for Pete, this little girl was love at first site. I went to visit her after she was found lost and hungry then, sheltered at the A.N.N.A shelter. While petting her through the cage as she excitedly licked my fingers, a worker informed me that she was 100% deaf. Learning of her impairment I knew that I had to have her; that Pete and I had to have her. She needed us. We had to help this poor little girl. Little did she know, from that moment she too had found her forever home.

I couldn’t take her right away though; I had to have time to warn Pete. I know that sounds stupid, but I had to prepare. I spent the next two days obsessing about this little girl. Could I do it? Could I raise a deaf dog? Could I raise two dogs? Could I share my love equally? Could I train her? Could I afford them? Would Pete resent me? But then I thought: Did it matter? I was already in love, and with love anything is possible. Right?

Monday June 21st finally arrived! I was bringing home my girl, our girl. I bought her a new bright pink collar and leash and arrived 45 minutes before the shelter opened and paced outside of their door. I just wanted to hold her. Finally the moment came; I could barely sign my name or sit still enough to listen to the adoption information. I just wanted to hold my girl.

The ride home was hilarious she kept trying to stick her head between the puppy gate in back of my jeep. I couldn’t drive home fast enough, she needed to meet Pete. He was going to love her! Right? Wrong. HE WAS HORRIFIED! Oh my goodness, what have I done? I broke his heart.

At first reaction to her he did his “I’m going to attack this intruder” stance, and then when he saw me petting her he fell to pieces in a huge trembling mess. I had traumatized my boy. He just lay at my feet crying, he thought had been replaced! It took about an hour before he calmed down, but he eventually did. He eventually fell in love with her, just as I had.

We named our little girl Penney. Pete and Penney- could that sound any more perfect?!

As the two of them were wrestling yesterday, I decided to put all of Penney’s papers away with Pete’s. Just to see I decided to compare the two’s first vet visit papers. Hand written on Penney’s under the ‘ears’ category was- “deaf.” Hand written on his under the ‘teeth’ category on Pete’s was “sever under-bite.” My poor babies.

Pete has taken on the role of big brother like a champ. He lets her jump all over him, lets her bite at his ears and sit on him when he’s sleeping. It amazes me, but I know that he senses her hearing impairment because he is constantly looking behind him to make sure she’s following. It’s as though he knows he’s suppose to guide her.

As perfect as they are though, they are equally as devilish. I have only had Penney for three days and the two of them have managed to make their share of messes. I came home from work yesterday to Penney in her kennel covered in poo. She went, and then decided to roll in it? I know ewww. Letting her out of course did not go smoothly. Pete apparently thought it would be funny to play. He jumped right on her, next thing I knew, I had two poopy dogs wrestling. The next thing they knew, they were in the bath.

As much of a challenge as this is going to be, I feel as though my heart has done it again, it has guided me in the right direction and has found me another best friend. I am so blessed.

See You at the St. Patty's Day Parade

2010-03-10T14:53:00.000-08:00

Be on the lookout for our pupparatazi on Saturday, March 13th at the St. Patrick's Day Parade in downtown Erie. We'll be the cool dogs walking with our owners! The Parade starts at 2 p.m. at 12th and State. May the luck of the Irish be with you!

Therapy Dogs United to be Featured in the Erie Times News

2010-02-09T15:09:00.000-08:00

Kudos to the Erie Times News for more outstanding coverage on our therapy dog programs. On Tuesday, February 9th, reporters checked out our visiting therapy dogs at the Montessori Charter School for Excellence to learn more about the agency's in-school literacy program, "Tutors with a Tail." The school has been using certified TDU therapy dogs in the classroom on a regular basis every month since September 2009 in an effort to boost reading scores in the school's Title 1 reading program. The concept was developed by teacher and fellow TDU volunteer Rebecca Schauffele. She started bringing Sullivan (Great Dane) to school in 2008 and was impressed with the immediate connection between her students and her dog, especially when paired together to read a good book. In 2009, Rebecca was given school permission to start an experimental program that would compare reading scores of students who read to Sullivan, versus those who did not. Today, Sulley is joined by fellow certified therapy dog JR (Bernese Mounain Dog, volunteer handler Diana Ferguson). To read more about this exciting program, please check the Erie Times News, or check back here for a link to GoErie.com once the article is published.

More Therapy Dogs United News:
Therapy Dogs United is one of the many charities participating in the 2010 Disney "Give a Day, Get a Day" nationwide promotion. So far, we have had requests from nearly 1,000 potential volunteers who want to make a difference with our nonprofit - and spend a day at Disney free of charge! Dozens of volunteers have already signed up and served... Unfortunately, we have had to suspend our volunteer opportunites until April 2010, or until we get more materials. If you are able to donate fleece blanket material or PVC pipe, please Email pat@therapydogsunited.org, or call (814) 456-DOGS today.

Happy Holidays From Therapy Dogs United!

2009-12-08T06:56:00.000-08:00

Erie Elks Lodge # 67 Donates to TDU
$400 Grant to Benefit TDU's PACKS Program
Therapy Dogs United, Inc. is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Erie Elks Lodge No. 67 - that will further our mission of educating mainstream and special needs school children on the importance of canine safety and animal humanity. On Thursday, November 5th, Members of the Erie Elks Lodge presented TDU's Executive Director Pat Van Zandt Christianson with a $400 check to benefit our PACKS Program (Prevent Attacks with Care, Kindness & Safety). Funds will be used to purchase 20 new textbooks and workbooks on dog bite prevention and safety for children in grades K-3. Three Wags from Scoops the Dog on this pawsitively perfect new partnership!

Bark of the Town
TDU PA State License Plates Coming to a Vehicle Near You!
If you're a fan of Specialty License plates and your dog - we have the perfect plate for you! Now, Pennsylvania residents can purchase an official state license plate featuring TDU's signature heart-shaped paw print logo. Production is underway, and we will begin taking orders in January 2010. The price is $60, and a portion of the proceeds benefits TDU. Begging for more information? Pawmail Scoops at pat@therapydogsunited.org - he's got the dish.

Pawsitive Impact
Erie Otters Donate Stuffed Animals to TDU
TDU's therapy dog volunteers are playing Santa this month thanks to a generous contribution from the Erie Otters Hockey Club. The team donated about 100 stuffed animals Otters fans brought to the Saturday, December 5th home game in support of the club's "Teddy Bear Toss" promotion. We used the donation to benefit our most needy clients in TDU's two main therapy dog visitation programs, "Senior Smiles" and "ARF" (At-Risk Families). Scoops says, thanks for the hat trick from The Erie Otters and Therapy Dogs United!

Mutts & Martini's Looks to 2010
You're Invited to Join Us Next November
Scoops the Dog and all his therapy dog friends say thank you to everyone who supported our Inaugural Mutts & Martini's Celebration on November 14th. We are pleased to announce the event will return in 2010, so please mark your calendar now for Friday, November 5, 2010 for another fantastic celebration...Woof!

TDU Dog of the Day
Shania Brings Barber Center Smiles
About one-third of TDU's volunteer handlers use their certified therapy dog at work, and for good reason. Many of our volunteers dedicate their lives to kids, senior citizens or the special needs community - and TDU volunteer Dave Buzard is just one shining example. Dave has carved out a 30 year career at the Barber National Institute where today he can be seen on the job with his English Springer Spaniel, Shania. Shi is not only a great motivator and a trusting friend to the center's many residents, but her gentle nature is an inspiration to everyone she meets. Shania was most recently a 2009 Canine Ambassador at our Mutts & Martini's Celebration. For a paw-graphed photo of Shania, or for more information on TDU's visits to clients with special needs, give us a growl at (814) 456-DOGS or Pawmail Scoops.

2010 Muttville Card Collection
Casting Call for Your Top Dog!
Scoops is on the lookout for dozens of the best Mutt Mugs in Erie (and beyond) to be a Card Cutie for our 2010 Muttville "Share Your Dogs Love" signature card collection. For consideration, please Pawmail Scoops your best high resolution photograph, or Email us for details on our upcoming photo shoots. To be one of the top dogs chosen, be sure to only submit "card quality" photos. This card collection goes on sale in May 2010 to kick off 'Be Kind to Animals' week.

Therapy Dog Memoir Penned
Cowboy & Wills On Sale Now
For many therapy dog volunteers, you already know the combination of a therapy dog and an autistic child can be magical. Now, you can read one family's personal tale in a new memoir penned by critically acclaimed author Monica Holloway. Cowboy & Wills takes you on the Holloway's extraordinary journey - from Wills' autism spectrum disorder diagnosis to the homecoming of his personal savior - a feisty Golden Retriever named Cowboy. Through it all, Cowboy helps Wills face his worst fears and gives him the confidence to try new things. This truly is a love story, and a perfect gift for any dog lover this holiday season. To learn more, visit www.MonicaHolloway.com, or become a Facebook fan at www.facebook.com/cowboyandwillis. Still begging for more? Pawmail Scoops - he has a paw'erful book review!

Join the "Share Your Dog's Love" Movement
If you're an active therapy dog volunteer - you're no stranger to the phrase: Unleash the Power of a Therapy Dog. Now we challenge you to jump on board and support the "Share Your Dog's Love" mission. It's sweeping the nation - and TDU is proud to help support the movement! You can show your support by ordering a "Share Your Dog's Love" license plate for only $19.95. Order online at: http://www.therapydogsunited.org/ - Therapy Dogs United also has logo license plates for sale on our website at www.therapydogsunited.org . Visit Scoops the Dog Blog for information on an upcoming "Share Your Dog's Love" contest - you could win $1,000 in prizes!

TDU Welcomes Our Newest Therapy Dogs
Scoops the Dog says kudos to Therapy Dogs United's newest therapy dog teams. Each dog and volunteer handler was recently certified and received both the Canine Good Citizen award and TDU Therapy Dog certificate. Welcome: Scrappy, Ginger, Ollie and Abby G.
Visit TherapyDogsUnited.org to see every TDU certified therapy dog! In Memory, it is with great sadness that we honor the passing of therapy dog Princess de Neige, a beautiful and talented show Poodle handled by TDU volunteer Phyllis Aiello. TDU also welcomes our newest Member Agency Partners: Ball Pavilion Brevellier Village and the Perseus House Charter School of Excellence.

For more good stuff happening with your friends at Therapy Dogs United, Inc. -
visit us online at www.therapydogsunited.org. To make a financial contribution, mail us at Therapy Dogs United, Inc., 1932 B West 8th Street, Erie, PA 16505, or call (814) 456-DOGS (3647).

Therapy Dogs United, Inc., is a registered 501 (c)3 tax exempt nonprofit organization.
Your donation is not only appreciated - it's tax deductible. Please feel free to forward this E-Newsletter to a friend!

Share Your Dog's Love - Make it Your Mission

2009-10-13T05:45:00.000-07:00

Share Your Dog's Love...Join in the Movement!
For a therapy dog volunteer - it's our way of life. Now you can join in the wave that's sweeping the nation by doing something positive to share your dog's love. Whether your part of an official therapy dog team, or simply know the joy of allowing others to feel your dog's spirit and energy, we want to hear from you. Tell us how you unleash your dog's canine power and you could win $1,000 in prizes. This contest starts January 1, 2010. Stay tuned to the Scoops the Dog Blog, details and official contest rules are coming soon.

Get Your Tickets Now for Mutts & Martini's
Saturday, November 14
Bel-Aire Hotel & Conference Center, West 8th Street in Erie
6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Join Scoops the Dog and all his fancy friends at Erie's premier doggie fund raising event. This is the perfect party for any dog lover, but please leave Fido at home! Therapy Dogs United, Inc. invites you to our "Mutts & Martini's Celebration" and Recognition Celebration featuring a Silent and Live Auction, Dessert Auction, Live Entertainment and Dinner, plus Pawsmopolitian, Mutt-tini and Barkerita drink specials…need we say more? This event honors TDU's many dedicated volunteers and you won't want to miss our Surprise Celebrity Guest Auctioneer! Tickets are $60/per person. Want to get on the mailing list? Pawmail Scoops for your tickets or Sponsorship information.

Mutts & Martini's would not be possible without the support of these fine companies and individuals:
Advertising Advantage
Ashton & Palotas Flooring Gallery
Buzz n B’s Aquarium and Pet Shop
Campbell Pottery Store & Gallery
Charles Gehringer Photography
Critter Sitters of Erie
Dad’s Pet Care
Deb Gehringer Photography
Erie Zoo
Forte Advertising
Jack Paluh, Artist

Judge Michael Dunlavey
Kali’s Chocolates, Gifts & Souvenirs
Kevin-John Jobczynski, Artist
Nancy Shumaker Pallan, Artist

Northwest Savings Bank
Petrone’s Pizzelles
Pittsburgh Steelers
Safe & Sound Pet Sitting
Sam’s Club of Erie
Samuel P. Black & Associates
Sleep & Mattress Gallery
Steve Horvath, Artist
Sweet Temptations Bakery
Tractor Supply Company
Victoria’s Secret
Village at Luther Square
WSEE-TV

Individuals
Mr. & Mrs. Bill & Diana Ferguson
Mr. James Martin
Mr. & Mrs. Dave & Bridget Buzard

TDU Dog of the Day - Sir "Sullivan" Rules at School
Sullivan the Great, a beautiful Merle Great Dane not only knows how to curl up for a good book - but how to put a smile on a lot of kids faces. Sulley (named after that fuzzy critter in Disney's Monsters, Inc.) spends a lot of his therapy dog time making a difference at school where he serves as a volunteer pet partner for TDU's "Tutors with a Tail" reading program. Sulley joins his volunteer handler Rebecca Schauffele in the Montessori classroom helping inspire kids to read. He's so good, in fact, Rebecca is penning a book about Sulley and his classroom exploits titled "Sullivan the Great and His Terrible Tail." For a paw-graphed photo of Sullivan, or for more information on Tutors with a Tail, give us a growl at (814) 456-DOGS or Pawmail Scoops.

Bark of the Town - Howl-O-Ween Doggie Costume Contest Coming...
It's time to get your dog's best disguise and party! Horstman & Son's Dog Park on West 26th Street (corner of 26th & Powell Avenue) in Erie is hosting a
Howl-o-ween Costume Contest on Saturday, October 24th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The judging starts at 12-Noon and dogs and their owners can compete in a number of categories. This event will also celebrate Horstman's One Year Anniversary. Need more info? Pawmail Scoops for the dish.

2010 Muttville Card Collection - Casting Call for Your Top Dog!
Scoops is on the lookout for dozens of the best Mutt Mugs in Erie (and beyond) to be a Card Cutie for our 2010 Muttville "Share Your Dogs Love" signature card collection. For consideration, please Pawmail Scoops your best high resolution photograph, or Email us for details on our upcoming photo shoots. To be one of the top dogs chosen, be sure to only submit "card quality" photos. This card collection goes on sale in May 2010 to kick off 'Be Kind to Animals' week.

K-9 Search & Rescue - New Organization Looks for Volunteers
As you know, there are many ways you can give back with a little canine power - and volunteering with a therapy dog is only one of them. A newly formed K9 Search and Rescue organization serving Erie and Crawford county is actively recruiting new volunteers. If you think you've got what it takes to be part of this elite team, contact the Northwest PA K9 Search & Rescue and ask to attend a Prospective Member meeting. The agency welcomes dog handlers, search responders and auxiliary members. For more information, send an Email to info@nwpak9sar.org or Pawmail Scoops for the doggone details.

Join the "Share Your Dog's Love" Movement!
If you're an active therapy dog volunteer - you already know what it means to unleash the power of a therapy dog. Now we challenge you to jump on board and support the "Share Your Dog's Love" mission. It's sweeping the nation - and TDU is proud to help support the movement! You can show your support by ordering a "Share Your Dog's Love" license plate for only $19.95. Click here to order online! Therapy Dogs United also has logo license plates for sale.

TDU Welcomes Our Newest Therapy Dogs
Scoops the Dog says kudos to Therapy Dogs United's newest therapy dog teams. Each dog and volunteer handler was recently certified and received both the Canine Good Citizen award and TDU Therapy Dog certificate. Welcome: Raven, Charlie, Daisy Brown and Mariya! Click here to see every TDU certified therapy dog! TDU also welcomes our new Member Agency Partners: Catholic Health System of Lackawanna, NY & Buffalo GuildCare (The Jewish Guild for the Blind) of Buffalo, NY.

2009 Paws in the Park - Something to Bark About

2009-09-21T13:22:00.001-07:00

It was nothing but wagging tails on Saturday, September 19th for the 2nd Annual "Paws in the Park" Responsible Dog Ownership Day at Frontier Park in Erie. An estimated one thousand people and their leashed partners joined Therapy Dogs United and 25 other dog-related causes for this annual event. Paws in the Park is all about raising awareness surrounding responsible dog ownership and honoring the many regional nonprofit agencies and businesses who support that mission.

Plans are already underway for 2010 (tentatively scheduled for Saturday, September 18th). Next year, TDU plans to join forces with the LEAF Festival (Lake Erie Aboretum at Frontier Park) and combine two great celebrations into one fantastic day. Stay tuned. As always - Scoops will bring you the details.

Paws in the Park

2009-09-09T05:49:00.000-07:00

Scoops the Dog has something to bark about! Don't forget to bring your canine companion (leash required, please!) to Paws in the Park at Frontier Park, on Saturday, September 19th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., for Therapy Dogs United's signature event. To view our current TV ad campaign, click here! Paws in all about responsible dog ownership and our way of saying 'thank you' for loving your four-legged friend! This initiative is sponsored in part by The American Kennel Club in honor of its Responsible Dog Ownership Month (the entire month of September).

This year's list of vendors is pawsitively fantastic. If your animal rescue group or business isn't on this list, it's not too late. Pawmail Scoops and ask for your vendor application. Please be sure to patronize these vendors at our event:

Tails of the Tundra Siberian Husky Rescue
Dogs Deserve Better
PAAWE
GreySave
Because You Care
CART
Avilia's Dog Food
Humane Society of NW PA
NW PA K9 Search & Rescue
Hope Crisis Response
Critter Sitters
Pet Cremations of Erie
Great Lake's Veterinary Assistance Program
Invisible Fence
Wintergreen Animal Hospital
Erie Kennel Club & Village Groomers
Horstman Country Store & Pet Cremation Services
4H Club Cloverleaf Canines
Safe & Sound Pet Sitting & Homeschooled Canines
Bassett Hound Rescue of NW PA
Grooming By Lea - Buzz n B's
Therapy Dogs United, Inc.
Dog Lovers Gold Dog Food

This event is jam packed with activities both you and your dog will enjoy:

12 Noon - Dunkin for Dogs Contest
12:30 - Live Acoustic music by Mark Stockhausen
1 p.m. - Blessing of the Dogs
2 p.m. - Parade of Breeds
2:30 p.m. - Dog & Human Look Alike Contest
3 p.m. - K9 Search & Rescue Demo

Other ongoing activities throughout the day include: AKC Canine Good Citizen testing, Ask the Dog Trainer Booth, Ask the Vet Booth, pet safety demonstrations, chinese auction (winners posted at 3:30 p.m.), food, and more.

This event is sponsored by Faulkner Financial of Erie, Frontier Advertising, The AKC, and Therapy Dogs United, Inc.

For more information on Paws in the Park, visit http://www.therapydogsunited.org/ or Email pat@therapydogsunited.org

2009-07-06T17:56:00.000-07:00

Therapy Dogs United, Inc. Expands to Buffalo, New York Area
Programs Now Offered in Two States

Scoops says "two is better than one!" Therapy Dogs United, Inc. has crossed state lines – and is proud to announce the formation of our first official Chapter located in Buffalo, New York. The Chapter is guided under the same principals of our founding office headquartered in Erie, PA, and the TDU Buffalo Chapter brings the same programs and services to Western New York and the surrounding region. If you are from the Buffalo area and would like information on joining this new Chapter, Pawmail Scoops . Photo: June, 2009. TDU Certified therapy dog Bandit visits the Charles A. Lindbergh Elementary School in Buffalo for Field Day. The students raised $600 for Mercy Flight, and kids were not only treated to a therapy dog visit, but were able to check out the chopper after the school's check presentation.

Barber National Institute Seniors Cover Therapy Dogs with Love
Group Makes Blankets & Toys for TDU

Seniors from the Lakeside Senior Center of the Barber National Institute are hard at work making fleece blankets and dog toys to benefit Therapy Dogs United. Activities Director Patty Czulewicz coordinated the effort as a way of saying thank you to the many therapy dogs who visit the Center every week. TDU is set to raffle off the blankets at our upcoming "Paws in the Park" Responsible Dog Ownership day in September - and the dog toys will be handed out to our Barber Center Canine Ambassadors!
The Center's Adult Day Services is dedicated to meeting the needs of special needs individuals with developmental challenges. If you would like to purchase a $2 raffle ticket and can't make it to Paws in the Park, Pawmail Scoops for the doggone details!

"Paw-sengers" Take Off in First Class
Cargo Flights for Prized Pooches are So Yesterday....

To meet a growing demand for friendlier pet air travel, Southwest Airlines is now accepting pets in the main cabin of commercial flights onboard it’s exclusive Pet Airways. The inaugural flight takes off July 14th. Service is designed for larger pets too big to fit in the tiny space under your seat or on your lap, and is perfect for pet owners who fret about Fido flying cargo. One way fares are as low as $149. According to Pet Airways.com, pet owners are flying high with anticipation. Flights are dedicated exclusively to pets, and the air carrier promises to transport your best friend with care, love, safety and comfort. You can even track your pet’s flight schedule online. Initially, flights will serve only five U.S. destinations: Baltimore/Washington International Airport, plus non-commercial airports in the New York City area, and in Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles. The concept is endorsed by several pet-friendly businesses and hotels. Check to see if you can get a PAW membership discount when you book your stay. Three Wags from Scoops on this pawsitively perfect way to travel!

Join Us at a Downtown Erie Block Party on Thursday, August 6th TDU Invites You to Come! Sit! Drink!

• Come Early for Yappy Hour •
• Stay Late to Bark with the Big Dogs •
Where? Park Place in Downtown Erie
When? Thursday, August 6
Join Scoops the Dog and all his party friends at Erie's premier Block Party event of the summer at Park Place, 18-20 North Park Row in Downtown Erie, with musical guest - Geek Army. The fun starts at 6:30 p.m. Be sure to try your luck at Putts for Mutts, Cornhole, the Money Grab & more - prizes will be awarded! Scoops says Thank You to the 50-plus volunteers who signed up to work this event! If you'd like additional information on how you can help - Pawmail Scoops for the dish.

TDU Dog of the Day
"Rusty" Shines While Making Smiles

Benedictine Sisters Carolann McLaughlin and Rita Groner, OSB, have a new mission in life – spreading joy and happiness through the work of their therapy dog Rusty. The Sisters have been making regular visits to the Mount St. Benedict Monastery, but recently branched out to touch the lives of dozens of residents at St. Mary’s East and St. Mary’s at Asbury Ridge. The Sisters adopted Rusty after his owner passed away and he’s not only a wonderful therapy dog, but gifted at agility, too. Rusty is sponsored by Sangamon Farm of DeWittville, New York. For more information on how you can sponsor a TDU certified therapy dog, click here!

Bark of the Town
Doggie Match Maker Helps Dog Owners Decide

Sure, we all love our dogs. But did you ever wonder if your chosen breed is really the right match for your personality and muttstyle? Now you can take an online Quiz to figure out what type of dog best suits you, your family, and your personality. DogTime.com matchup not only suggests a specific breed but lists qualities you might like in a canine companion. The Quiz takes about 5 minutes, and gives you five “suggestive” purebred breeds to consider. When done, scroll down to learn more about other breeds that may also be a good match for your pet-sonality.

2010 Muttville Calendar
Casting Call for Your Top Dog!

Scoops is on the lookout for 12 of the best Mutt Mugs in Erie (and beyond) to be a Calendar Cutie for our 2010 Muttville wall calendar. For consideration, please Pawmail Scoops your best high resolution photograph. To be one of the top dogs chosen, be sure to only submit "calendar quality" photos. Calendars go on sale in September 19th at our upcoming 'Paws in the Park' Responsible Dog Ownership Day, at Frontier Park in Erie.

AKC Gives Two Paws Up to Mix Breeds
New ID Numbers Change the Face of the AKC

For over a century the American Kennel Club has been the nation’s premier advocate and standard for canine excellence. But starting this fall - that’s all about to change. The organization well-known for its list of AKC recognized purebreds is mixing things up. Come October 1, mix breed dog owners can begin enrolling their pets to receive an AKC ID number. Then, starting in April 2010, every dog enrolled is eligible to compete in mixed breed classes at stand-alone AKC agility events. Other benefits are to follow, including discounted Animal Recovery Lost & Found services, and free AKC Certificates for any dog passing the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test. For more information visit the AKC online.

Animal Planet to Pilot "Little Champions"
Show Dedicated to Extraordinary Canines

The Discovery Channel’s Animal Planet has set its sights on a special show where the superstars are handicapped canines who have overcome adversity to become thriving canine companions. The pilot episode features a Jack Russell terrier who was likely used as bait in a dog fighting ring, a Chihuahua born with two legs, and a three-legged Pit Bull who probably spent time in a deadly dog fighting ring. Production started in late June in Frenchtown New Jersey. The proposed show also features interviews with specialists an experts in every area of coping with canine handicaps. To get the full scoop, click here.

Summer of Fun Continues - Upcoming Events

TDU's July "Animal Education - All About Canine Companions" class at Penn State Behrend's 'College for Kids' is filled to capacity! Scoops thanks all the parents who enrolled their children in our class. We have invited a number of guest speakers including: GreySave, NW PA's K9 Search and Rescue & Dogs Deserve Better.

Scoops recognizes all the TDU therapy dog volunteers who walked in the Millcreek 4th of July Parade! Thanks for a job well-done!

Congratulations to TDU's newest Therapy Dogs certified in June - Tigger, Ginger and Layla!

2009-06-15T11:02:00.000-07:00

"Scoops the Dog" Welcomes YOU!
TDU's Official SpokesDog

"Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community" Check Up
Proceeds Raised Benefit TDU's PACKS Dog Bite ProgramMany thanks to the folks who participated in the Highmark "Walk for a Healthy Community" at Presque Isle on Saturday, June 6th. Therapy Dogs United had more than 120 people register to walk for our charity! All of the money raised in Corporate and Individual donations benefit our successful PACKS Program (Prevent Attacks with Care, Kindness and Safety). This dog bite prevention and animal humanity initiative teaches school-aged children and special needs individuals how to safely communicate and care for our canine friends year-round! Three Wags from Scoops on this successful TDU fundraising event!

Join Us at Yappy Hour August 6th - TDU Invites You to Come! Sit! Drink!
• Come Early for Yappy Hour •
• Stay Late to Bark with the Big Dogs •
Where? Park Place in Downtown Erie
When? Thursday, August 6, 2009

Join Scoops the Dog and all his party friends at Erie's premier block party event of the summer at Park Place (musical guest - Geek Army). Try your luck at Putts for Mutts and Cornhole - prizes awarded! Want to volunteer? Pawmail Scoops to request your Volunteer Application.

TDU Dog of the Month
"Bandit" is Cover Dog for International Catalogue
A familiar face to TDU is getting International attention after being chosen 'Cover Dog' for the front of a new Herrm Sprenger brochure. The popular dog collar manufacturer is promoting its new "Neck-Tech" training collar, and the company plans to target 10,000 retailers Worldwide with this snappy new brochure. Herm Sprenger is headquartered in Iserlohn, Germany. Click here to visit the company's Dog Accessories Catalogue. For a paw-graphed photo of Bandit, give us a growl at (814) 456-DOGS.

Bark of the Town
Take Your Dog to Work Day© - Friday, June 26th
Unfortunately, it's not an "officially recognized" National Holiday, but the folks at Pet Sitters International continue to promote its very successful "Take Your Dog to Work Day" - and this year expect to have thousands of dog lovin' business owners open their doors to your friendly canine ambassadors. Visit TakeYourDog.com for free downloads and information to help pitch the idea to your boss as well as alternative event ideas to help promote this pawsitively perfect dog day afternoon! If you and your pooch participate in TYDTWD - help get the word out! Pawmail Scoops with your story!

2010 Muttville Calendar
Casting Call for Your Top Dog!
Scoops is on the lookout for 12 of the best Mutt Mugs in Erie (and beyond) to be a Calendar Cutie for our 2010 Muttville wall calendar. For consideration, please Pawmail Scoops your best high resolution photograph. To be one of the top dogs chosen, be sure to only submit "calendar quality" photos. Calendars go on sale in September 19th at our upcoming 'Paws in the Park' Responsible Dog Ownership Day, at Frontier Park in Erie.

The AKC Canine Good Citizen & You
Pennsylvania Passes CGC Resolution
As a testament to the important role that training and responsible dog ownership play to ensure dogs are well-behaved members of society, a growing list of states - including Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York - have all passed AKC Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) resolutions. The resolutions signify an ensorsement of the AKC CGC program at the state level. To be certified with our agency, Therapy Dogs United, Inc. requires all dogs must successfully pass the CGC, as well as the TDU Therapy Dog evaluation. To see a complete listing of participating states, visit the AKC online. Want to find out what the CGC resolution means for you and your canine? Just Pawmail Scoops - he's always ready to dish!

Summer of Fun - Upcoming Events
There are only a few seats left for TDU's upcoming "Animal Education - All About Canine Companions" class at Penn State Behrend's 'College for Kids.' Our class is set for July 20 - 24. To register your child for any College for Kids class, click here. If you are an animal-related charity or organization and you would like to guest lecture or participate, call (814) 456-DOGS.

Millcreek 4th of July Parade
We hope to see you at the upcoming 4th of July Parade in Millcreek - and Scoops says all TDU volunteers are invited to walk! Be sure to Pawmail Scoops to add your name to the list. Meantime, a huge thank you to the 20 TDU therapy dog teams (pictured) who walked
Saturday, May 16th in the Erie Zoo Parade.

Want to find out more good stuff happening with your furry friends at Therapy Dogs United, Inc.? Visit us online at http://www.therapydogsunited.org/

TDU is a registered 501 (c)3 tax exempt nonprofit organization.
Your donation is not only appreciated - it's tax deductible.

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