Dioji Tribone - January 2008

ISSUE #4 JAN 2008

Kirby's Korner

Happy New Year Everyone!

I personally am going to miss 2007 – what an exciting year for me. I eagerly anticipated the opening of Dioji while I watch the construction transform 7340 Hollister into a fun and comfortable oasis. On August 29th we opened our doors and I have met so many new friends since. I have met Australian Shepherds, Basset Hounds, Beagles, Bichon Frises, Boxers, Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Cockapoos, Coton de Tulears, Dachshunds, Dobermans, Labs, Labradoodles, Maltese, Poodles, Retrievers, Shitzus, Whippets, Yorkies and every breed and mix in between.

I cannot wait to see what 2008 has in store for me!!

Kirby Wendel

VP of Quality Control
Owners Jeannie & Bryce's yellow lab

January Birthdays


Apollo	Bella	Buddy

Claudine	Duke	Ellie

Elvis	Floyd	Gaucho

Harpo	Jasper	Kela

Kobe	K.P.	Mac

Moe	Molly	Mr. Marbles

Noodles	Redford	Ricky

Roisin	Rogue	Sandy

Sedona	Sparky	Tucker

Windsor	Laci	Addison

Moose	Buster	Chloe

Luna	Be’la	Augie

Refer a Member

Have a friend join Dioji during the month of January and receive a FREE bag of Zuke’s Z-Filet Chicken Treats.

Ideas for future Tribone topics? Email susan@dioji.com.

Ask the Expert

Excerpt from “Behavioral Myths Debunked!”

By Melissa Bain, DVM, DACVB – published in the “California Veterinarian” – March/April 2007 – reprinted w/ permission from the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)

Perhaps more in behavior than in all other areas of veterinary medicine combined, there is a flurry of incorrect myths that are either at best unhelpful, or at worst harmful to our patients.

It is important that veterinarians know the scientific background of behavior, and not resort to the common thought, which can be incorrect. Listed here are some behavioral myths that are perpetuated amongst owners, veterinarians and staff.

#1 “Puppies should not go to puppy classes/the mall/friend’s houses until they have had all their vaccinations at 16 weeks of age.”

The primary socialization period, the time of rapid social development that sets a pattern for most things in later life, ends at about 14-16 weeks for dogs. This important period has passed by the time the dog has received his or her full vaccination series. If you recommend to your clients to wait until 16 weeks, should you do house-calls to vaccinate puppies in their homes while wearing shoe covers and clean lab coats? I ask this because one place that a well-cared-for owned puppy is likely to get an infectious disease is in a veterinary hospital. This is not the same as recommending the puppy go to a dog park or other area where dogs of unknown health status visit, but to well-controlled areas where healthy puppy and adult dogs visit. Regarding puppies raised for seeing-eye dogs… they are socialized out in the real world at a young age, but are rarely reported to contract, much less die from, Parvovirus, Distemper, and other infectious diseases. Studies have shown that attendance at puppy socialization classes is positively correlated to retention in the home……

Tip of the Month

Susan Dalton, Dioji Daycare Manager

Well-balanced happy dogs need physical and social stimulation on a regular basis. Frequent trips to dog oriented playgrounds such as Dioji, dog parks or dog beaches give our furry friends the opportunity to play and socialize in ways that are dog- rather than people-oriented. During these outings our dogs get to socialize using their natural language as they romp and play with their canine pals. Such play helps relax dogs so that they are better behaved when they return home.

In the Club

January 19th 9-10am (Saturday morning, 6 week session)
January 23rd 7:30-8:30pm (Wednesday evening, 6 week session)
Dioji Puppy School Courses Begin

We have developed a comprehensive training program to establish a happy, healthy, lasting relationship between your family and your furry pal. During the six weeks our trainers will provide you with the knowledge and tools to guide your dog’s development into a well mannered, balanced addition to your family. Call for more information and to reserve your spot in the class.

Cost: $145 for 6 weeks (includes 2 free days of daycare and continuous support)

---

January 19th 4-5:30pm
Intro to Canine Massage Class

All are welcome to this introductory course taught by Rachael Douglass. The class will include a brief anatomy discussion, demonstration of basic massage strokes and a hands on portion where you can put your new knowledge to work. Only a few spots remain, so call now to reserve your space in the class!

Cost: $45 (includes class materials).

Barkimonials

We love the excellent care Dioji gives to Ruthie. Dioji has become a trusted home-away-from-home. She just can’t get inside fast enough to start playing with her friends – both four-legged and two-legged.

- Charlene Garfinkle