Are Black Dogs Really Less Adoptable?

Petfinder has designated this week (September 17-23) as Adopt-A-Less-Adoptable-Pet Week, and aims to build awareness about adopting pets who have black fur, are older or have special needs.

Photo: Second Chance for Dogs Facebook

Black dogs have a reputation for taking longer to get adopted at shelters or through rescue groups than lighter-colored dogs. This phenomenon, called Black Dog Bias (also known as Black Dog Syndrome), may be due to a number of factors, including fear stigma against certain breed types; the fact that large, black dogs are often portrayed as aggressive in books, movies and on television; or due to superstition. Some potential dog adopters may associate the color black with evil or misfortune (similar to the common superstition surrounding black cats), and this bias transfers over to their choice of dog.

Photo: Second Chance for Dogs Facebook

Shelter staff and rescue group workers have repeatedly said that black dogs take a longer time to adopt. However, researchers are divided as to whether the color of a dog’s fur is a legitimate factor when choosing a dog to take home. What is clear is when shelter dogs are photographed to display their best features, it increases their chances of being adopted.

A 2011 study by the ASPCA found that looks do play a role in potential adopters’ selection of a dog, with more than 27 percent of adopters citing appearance as the single most important reason. But the study doesn’t go any further to specify what looks were preferred with potential adopters.

Animal behaviorist Dr. Emily Weiss cites in an ASPCA blog post a recent study that dispute the black dog syndrome. The researchers used Poodles with four variations: large black, small black, large white and small white, and instead found that black Poodles were rated as friendlier than white Poodles. The researchers’ conclusion was that because there are more black dogs in the dog population, there are more black dogs in need of adoption, and this is why it appears that black dogs take longer to be adopted.

Stock photo black dog.

Black dogs often don't photograph well. Their facial features disappear, which can make the dog appear less expressive. Most shelters have websites and also promote dogs for adoption through social media channels, so the prettier the picture, the quicker a potential adopter will fall in love.

Here are some tips for taking better photos of black dogs:

• Avoid harsh sunlight and shoot outdoor photos on a cloudy or overcast day. If this isn’t possible, snap the picture during the early morning or late afternoon/evening hours. Hollywood directors refer to this time of day as “golden time” because of the lack of shadows and flattering warm glow.
• Get down on the dog’s level for a better perspective.
• Avoid having a busy background that may take away attention from your subject.
• If you’re shooting indoors, select an area that has a lot of natural light. Use a fill light or bounce the flash for best results.
• Add a white or bright-colored background, such as a quilt, so that the black dog stands out.
• Another idea is to shoot the dog in profile, to show off his or her features.
• Seth Casteel runs Second Chance Photos, a nonprofit that teaches volunteers how to take photos of shelter pets. He suggests taking the dog on a vigorous walk or run before the photo shoot, “so that he or she will pant, which looks like a smile.”
• Tie a brightly colored bandana around the dog’s neck to add color and contrast.
• If you have an image editing application such as Photoshop, you can adjust the contrast in the shadows to help make a black dog's eyes stand out.

Avoid harsh sunlight when shooting a photo of a black dog. Photo: Second Chance for Dogs Facebook

Do you have a black dog? Did the color play a role in choosing the dog? What do you think about Black Dog Bias? Let us know in the comments

Dogs and Fireworks: The 5 Stages of Grief

We're just a few days away from the Great Misery, according to your dog. Despair. Suffering. Blackness. Fireworks. 

When the BOOM begins, your dog will undergo a wrenching emotional journey there in the back of the closet, while you drink your beer and eat whatever is left on your friend's plate -- dill pickles? Hope you're happy. 

       1. Denial

Wow, that was loud. I'm sure it won't happen again.

What a nice -- BOOM! -- day. I feel -- BOOM! -- great. There's nothing the matter at --BOOM! -- all, though I am having a little trouble trying to get to -- BOOM! -- sleep. 

       2. Anger 

Are you kidding me with this?

Who authorized this? Why wasn't I consulted? You think you can drop a stunt like this on me without any warning? Think again, hot-shot. This ends NOW or you might as well throw the poop bags in the trash because I'm crapping on your pillow for the next nine years. 

Don't try me. It's your social life.

       3. Bargaining

This is negotiable, right? Tell me this is negotiable. 

Okay, I get it, I understand you are now insane and have to make loud booms. So how about you do just one more and call it a day? BOOM! Please? BOOM! Just one more?BOOM! Come on. BOOM! Just one more. BOOM! Please? BOOM! Just one more.BOOM! Just. BOOM! One. BOOM! More. BOOM! Please? BOOM! 

SCREW IT I'M EATING THE WINTER COATS. 

       4. Depression

I remember when I thought things were funny.

I can't eat, I can't sleep, I am trapped in a black pit of despair, wedged next to the suitcases in the hall closet that nobody ever goes in. It is so dark. 

Would it kill you to put light in here? 

Whoa, that was a big one, but I feel nothing. 

Well, not true, I felt that one in my pancreas. What's going on with fireworks? Maybe it's time to cool it on the fireworks technology, ya think? 

I'm depressed. I'm not really depressed. Dogs don't get depressed. Let's move on. 

       5. Acceptance 

I'll just be here under my hat.

This is life. The boom boom boom. The bam bam bam. I can't go on. I'll go on. It's going to be okay. Life continues. There is still a soft couch, there is still a bowl of food, there is still running around barking at cars, there is  -- BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM. 

[Pause]

BOOMITY BOOMITY BOOMITY BOOM ... pop.   

[Cheering, then quiet. The dog detaches her snout from a hole in a suitcase and spits out a loafer.]

What's this? We're finished now? The fun is over? We're brushing our teeth? We're turning out the lights? Just like that? We're patting my head? We're all just going to go to bed like good little boys and girls and dream of nice things? Is that what you think?

Oh no, my friend.

WE'RE JUST GETTING STARTED. 

Now THIS is a celebration.

Yes, this was all fun and games, but on Thursday, July 4, we'll have a real post on how to help your dog survive the Fourth of July. Be sure to catch it. 

What You Need to Know for Traveling With Your Dog By Plane

Dogs may have been one of the first mammals in space (remember Laika?), but it doesn’t mean that taking them on an airplane has become any easier. There’s a lot of planning involved with taking a dog on holiday, both mentally and physically. It’s not a choice to be taken lightly, and due to the amount of time that’s needed to plan, it’s often not a great choice for a long weekend away.

If you’re going to take a dog away with you, you need to get ready well in advance. Adding your dog to the family holiday can’t be a last-minute decision. 

Here's what you need to know to have a great time flying with your dog: 

       First things first: Can your dog fly?

The first judgment you need to make is whether your dog can cope with a plane trip. There are some legal restrictions on dogs flying: The very young and the very old aren’t allowed to fly, nor can pregnant or ill dogs. Some breeds may face particular discomfort when flying, such as those with shorter nasal passages, like Pugs or Boston Terriers. If your dog may safely fly, then you need to judge his mental strength. It will be a stressful time, and if you think he’ll spend the entire journey terrified and whimpering, then leaving him with a pet-sitter, trusted friend, or at boarding kennels would be the kindest thing.

Make sure your travel carrier is airline-approved and that your dog fits

 in it comfortably.

       Do your homework

Once you’ve established that your dog will be able to fly, you need to prepare him for his destination. Check what vaccinations he has to have and make an appointment with a vet. This needs to be done around seven to eight months in advance. You’ll need to have a certificate of health, usually verified from around a month before arrival, but some countries demand one as recent as 24 to 48 hours before the flight.

Find an airline that’s happy, and equipped, to take dogs onboard. Some are great, and will have their own pet flying guidelines, but make sure you read reviews and ask around. Read the airline's policies and regulations as often as possible, as rules can change quickly, and record all conversations you have about bringing your dog, just in case it goes wrong on arrival. It may also be worth bringing a copy of the section of the airline’s policy that covers animal travel, just in case officials aren’t entirely sure.

Your dog may actually enjoy flying. 

You’ll also need to get your dog used to the crate he’ll be flying in, so spend lots of time (and treats!) playing in and around it at home. You want to make sure he’ll be happy spending a long time in it, and that he’s comfortable and safe in there. Sedation is a possibility, but you should check with your vet first, as it can sometimes have adverse or stronger effects at high altitudes.

Some airlines will let you transport your dog in a carrier stored under the seat, though these flights are usually limited to domestic journeys. Airlines that do allow pets to travel in the cabin include Air France, Air Canada, Lufthansa, and Swiss Airlines. Others, such as Virgin Atlantic, British Airways, and Qantas, require any animals to travel in cargo. Each airline has individual weight restrictions and crate size requirements, so make sure you read these carefully, especially if you have a larger dog.

Guide dogs and other kinds of assistance dogs are often exceptions: Usually passengers will be given seats near the front, so no matter how big the dog is, he can be kept with his person. However, it’s imperative to check before you travel, as not all airlines will be happy to accommodate this or even think to give extra space for a large dog.

Your dog may be allowed to travel in the cabin with you.

Making the flight easier

Try to choose direct flights, to save your dog from being bundled around between airports, as well as picking flights that won’t land during the coldest or hottest part of the day. There are strict regulations about how long an animal can stand in severely hot or cold weather, and you need to adhere to these.

Choosing the right crate is especially important. It needs to meet regulations set out by the airline, as well as be comfortable for the dog. It isn’t recommended to feed your dog while you fly, to save upset stomachs, and water is best stored as ice cubes. Make sure you have every bit of information attached to the crate, including all of your travel details and a 24-hour feeding plan, as animals and their owners are sometimes transported on separate planes.

       On the day of travel

While you should be making the most of your preparations before the flight, there are plenty of things you can do on the day to make the journey as comfortable as possible for your dog. To minimize chances of an upset stomach, don’t feed him for around two to four hours before the flight, though water is fine. Take him on the longest walk you can. A tired dog is more likely to be peaceful (and sleepy) once on the plane than a dog bursting with energy. Most important, make sure you can take him out for a toilet break at the last minute.

Ensure your dog and his crate has plenty of identifying information. Use everything from a collar to a microchip, just in case the two of you are separated. 

Know the symptoms for motion sickness. It should dissipate once your dog is back on the ground, but if you’re still worried, get to a vet as soon as you can. The main symptoms of motion sickness include excessive drooling, yawning, whining and crying, nausea and vomiting, shaking, shivering, pacing and unsure footing.

Taking your dog away with you, whether you’re relocating, traveling, or going on a special holiday, can make for the best time away, as long as you make sure you and your dog are both prepared, relaxed, and ready to go.

How Much Do You Love Playing Fetch with the ChuckIt?

They are ubiquitous in urban dog parks, like strollers at playgrounds or headphones on public transit. They poke their colorful stems from purses and tote bags, flying a flag to mark an afternoon of excitement. Arching across the space between a dog and her owner, it is a fishing pole with an invisible line that casts forth and then tows back a joyful, panting dog. The mere sight of the bag in which it slumbers is enough to run Ace in circles, her eyes fixed upon the object of her desire.

I’m talking about the ChuckIt.

If you don’t own one, you’ve probably seen it: a plastic ball launcher with a long handle that allows even the most clumsy of dog owners (me) to send a ball soaring effortlessly across the grass or sand. All hail its sublime power!

Because Ace loves nothing –- indeed, nothing -– more than to fetch, the ChuckIt is a regular part of my weekend routine, as much as my favorite pair of broken-in sneakers. For the uninitiated, the skeptical, and even for other devoted ChuckIt groupies, I will expound upon my love of this simple, reliable tool of doggie fun.

       A variety of sizes

So many of the dog products I review are limited to use by dogs of a certain size. TheChuckIt covers dogs from the Chihuahua to the Great Dane and every size in between. For the smaller-mouthed of our canine friends, which includes Ace, the ChuckIt Sport 14, which holds the size-small balls, is perfect. These balls are smaller than a tennis ball, and the ChuckIt is molded to perfectly scoop and throw this miniature size. The Sport 14 is designed and made of the same quality hard plastic as even the largest ChuckIt, the Sport 26. ChuckIt also offers launchers with a “control grip” handle for the medium- and large-sized balls. Ace is able to cram a medium into her mouth if she’s playing with her larger friends; it is the same size as a tennis ball.

       A variety of balls

I keep Ace away from tennis balls, which can grind down a dog’s teeth if they play fetch as obsessively as she does. ChuckIt offers a vast array of balls that fit into their launchers. Ace prefers the Ultra balls, which are made from durable rubber. They are easy to clean and are highly visible; the bright orange contrasts strongly with green grass. It also bounces well on packed dirt and even on grass, though perhaps next we will try the Fetch balls, which are described as designed for high bounce. I haven’t tried the other types of balls yet, but they look like fun. If you dog likes to play fetch in a lake or pool, they have several options that float!

       Clean hands, dirty maw

Fetch is gross. Ace slobbers on the ball; the ball bounces in soil, dirt, or sand; Ace picks up the ball, runs, slobbers, and lays at my feet a sticky, muddy mess. Multiply that by 50 or more throws, and all the hand sanitizer in the world won’t make me feel clean. The ChuckIt eliminates the ick factor by allowing you to pick up the ball with the launcher itself, directly off the ground. The ball easily clicks into place and launches without difficulty. 

I have found it is helpful to knock off any large chunks of debris after picking up the ball but before throwing it. This prevents the ball from getting stuck in the launcher or showering you with whatever horror was stuck to the ball as it is launched. I just pick up the ball with the launcher and then gently knock the ball against my shoe, a fence, or the hard ground to dislodge the accumulation of pebbles or mud. I never have to touch it.

       The perfect throw

Fetch is an athletic game for humans as well as dogs, and I love how the ChuckIt makes it so much easier for me to keep up with Ace when we play. I can vary the kind of throw I give her: bouncy, high in the air, long, rolling. The stamina of my throwing arm increases exponentially.

While the ChuckIt makes me a more worthy opponent for my dog, I’ve never played a game of fetch where Ace didn’t outlast me -– this little dog is a tank.

       Dogster Scorecard for the ChuckIt Ball Launcher

• Quality: Made of hard plastic, my launcher is still going strong after almost two years of regular use.
• Style: ChuckIt sports a simple design in bright colors.
• Function: ChuckIt throws balls exponentially better than I do –- and I get to avoid picking up a dirty ball.
• Creativity: Shake up your typical fetch routine with a variety of ball choices, including balls that whistle, float, and glow.
• Value: For less than $15, you get a durable, reliable source of fun.

       Bottom line

Do yourself and your ball-loving dog a favor and go get yourselves a ChuckIt! Already have one? Maybe it’s time to mix up your routine with a different kind of ball. 

Do Your Dogs Demand Cuddle Time Like Mine?

My wife and I are lightly awakened from sleep, but not by your traditional alarm clock blaring out a sound that sounds like a French police car siren. We’ve already experienced that sound too many times after scheduling a vacation in Paris and, unknowingly, booking a hotel around the corner from the police station. The alarm clock isn’t a radio playing the latest Lady Antebellum or Sugarland hit, two of our country music favorites. Rather, it’s the light shimmy-shake from our little eight-poundSchnauzer, Dusty.

We are so in tune with her that the slightest noise or movement usually will awaken us no matter how deeply we are sleeping. There’s no need for us to wipe our eyes, stare at the clock, and squint to see the time on the display. No, our little Dusty girl has waking up to a science. 7:30 a.m. Eastern time is always the exact time for our wake-up call. It doesn’t matter if it is daylight savings time. It doesn’t matter if the window blinds are pulled tight and the curtains closed. This is when our petite furry girl notifies us that she’s ready to start her day.

Dusty always kisses us before going night-night.

Some dogs can’t wait to get up, stretch, and run to the door to be let outside for their potty session. They may wag their tails and get a quick pet or two before bounding out of the room and to the door that will take them to the great outdoors. But this is not the case for our little white Schnauzer. For her, it’s time to let the morning cuddle session begin. The stretching, running, and pottying can wait. 

Some dogs will even snuggle up at bedtime. 

Our little girl likes sleeping in her own crate. We refer to it as her private space to retreat, relax, and rejuvenate. She loves her crate and knows that she can fluff her bedding the way she likes and stretch out as long and far as her little body will take her. Besides, allowing her to sleep in our bed would keep us awake all night. Not because she is a light sleeper -- it’s more about me worrying about rolling over on her, or her falling off our tall king-sized bed.

I give Dusty a little loving massage before bedtime.

When she’s ready to get out of her “bedroom,” she always lets us know. We will then roll out of bed to greet her at the door of her crate. Her short nub of a tail wagging rapidly back and forth, she is anxious to get out and see us. From the crate, we put her immediately on the bed with us. We lay beside her, one on each side, and the cuddling begins.

She’ll usually start with me. Yes, she is a daddy’s girl! She will give me a kiss or two on the face, rub against my legs, spoon me as close as possible. Roll on her side and demand her belly rub. The belly rubbing session will last for about five minutes or more.

Then she will get up, stretch and head over to my wife. She gives my wife a kiss and immediately lies on her pillow. She likes the smell of the hand lotion my wife uses each night, and knows that this is the only time and location where she will get to sniff the sweet flower aroma. After a lengthy sniffing session she will lie down beside my wife and request another lengthy belly rub from her. The whole session will last for approximately 15 minutes, although we think our little Schnauzer girl would be more than happy to stay there for twice as long if we’d let her.

Getting Belly rubs from Momma is always nice.

After the morning cuddle session has been completed, we head downstairs and out the door and she is finally ready to start the other parts of her daily regimen., which usually includes a dozen trips outside to explore her big back yard. We have plenty of playtime including fetching the ball, playing with her favorite toys, and her barking at any people or animals she can see.

We’ll go for a ride to our local coffee house and then off to the park for more exploring and a good run. Of course, a few meals and multiple healthy treats throughout the day are always welcome. She especially likes our game of “Find It,” where I will toss a fresh piece of vegetable, fruit, or treat and she needs to find it. It’s one of the many highlights of her day.

Puppy love session done? Check! Let's start our day.

Things usually wind down in the evening. While we watch a little television, she’ll take a nap in her favorite downstairs dog bed, on a throw, a couch pillow, or on Big Joe –- a giant overstuffed bean bag chair. At 10 p.m., she’ll gently awaken from her nap, stretch and head to the back door that leads to her big backyard. With her nose, she will push the jingle bells hanging from the door into the air. This is how we trained her to let us know she needs to go potty. Once the nighttime bells ring, we know it’s time to call it a night. A quick potty outside and a check of the yard is all that’s needed. Our little furry pup is now ready for bed.

We make our way up to our bedroom and get ready for bed. Looking very sleepy, you’d think our little Schnauzer girl would be ready to go to her private space. Oh, contraire! It’s now time for the nightly cuddle session. The nightly cuddle session is the exact same as the morning cuddle session. She honors each of us with some dedicated puppy love time. We sing a few special songs that we have penned especially for her. We tell her to have a good night’s sleep and let her know we love her and that she’s the best girl ever. We escort her to her private space and she proceeds to fluff her bedding and make a nice nest for the night.

Dogs love to be close to us
.

The cuddle times were at the request of our little Schnauzer girl when we adopted her at two months of age. She is now 14 months old and the cuddle sessions are still part of the daily routine. It’s something that Dusty loves and frankly makes all of our lives complete. We look forward to many more cuddle sessions –- morning and night.

Do your dogs like to cuddle? Do they have a special morning or nighttime ritual with you? Let us know in the comments!