Contest Finalists - Winter 2019 - Dog Writers Association of America
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Winter 2019
In This Issue
Junior Writer Award Winners, page 10 | Hall of Fame Inductee Deborah Wood, page 22
Contest
Finalists
Page 4
President 's
COLUMN
By Jen Reeder
Recently I had lunch with a writer
that left me brimming with optimism
about the future of dog writing. Kend-
Officers le Frank, a 16-year-old who has written
Jen Reeder, President several wonderful stories for DWAA’s
jen@jenreeder.com Young Writers on the Web program,
didn’t look at her phone at all when
Laura Coffey, Vice President we met at her request to discuss jour-
laura.coffey@nbcuni.com nalism. Instead, she peppered me with
intelligent questions about how to suc-
Laurren Darr, Secretary ceed as a freelance journalist who spe-
laurrendarr@leftpawpress.com cializes in dogs. She’s already working
toward that goal, writing articles about
Marsha M. Pugh, Treasurer dogs for her high school’s magazine,
marsha_pugh01@comcast.net contacting journalists and professors
for advice, and engaging in canine ac-
Ida W. Estep, Esq., Past President tivities in her community. She even
iwestep@earthlink.net started a club at her high school for stu-
Jen Reeder, President of the DWAA
dents who love dogs.
Kendle’s excitement about dog writ-
Board of Governors
ing reminded me of why I’ve volun- hattan. We will announce the winners
CLASS OF 2021 teered for the past two years as DWAA of Maxwell Medallions and award an
Martin Deeley
cdawgs@mindspring.com President. It’s been a wild ride, but I’ve astonishing $15,950 thanks to our gen-
done my best to stick to my goal: help erous Special Award sponsors!
Joel Gavriele-Gold, PhD
dr.joelgold@gmail.com members help dogs. I’m proud of some Attendees are in for a treat, with key-
of the initiatives we’ve enacted during note addresses from NBC correspon-
my term, such as “Successful Queries” dent and host of Animal Planet’s “Dog
CLASS OF 2020 and “Editor Insights.” But I think my fa- Bowl” Jill Rappaport and radio host/
Patricia Cruz
lacruz928@optonline.net vorite is “Young Writers on the Web,” journalist/author Steve Dale of Steve
Gail C. Parker which offers mentorship and publica- Dale’s Pet World. We’re thrilled to be in-
rebelslair@aol.com tion opportunities to the next genera- ducting Deborah Wood into DWAA’s
tion. Hall of Fame. Mara Bovsun – the talent-
We will celebrate the future of dog ed journalist/author/editor who spear-
CLASS OF 2019
Caroline Coile, PhD writing by honoring the four winners of headed Young Writers on the Web – will
ccoile@windstream.net the Junior Writer Awards at the DWAA accept the DWAA Distinguished Ser-
Karen Harbert Awards Banquet, as well as the year’s vice Award. We’ll also feature a surprise
aelwydcwc@aol.com best work involving dogs. Tickets are announcement from the Grey Muzzle
on sale now for the event, which takes Organization. There are only 100 seats
place the evening of Sunday, Feb. 10,
2019, at the Hotel New Yorker in Man- See PRESIDENT'S COLUMN pg 23
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 2
Editor 's DWAA Committees
LETTER BUDGET AND FINANCE
Ida Estep, Chair
Carmen Battaglia, Martin Deeley,
Susan Ewing, Marsha Pugh
By Merrie Meyers BYLAWS
Ida Estep, Chair
Dear Readers;
Carmen Battaglia, Patricia Cruz
As we leave 2018 in the rearview
mirror and chart a course for 2019, I 2018 CONTEST
Laurren Darr, Chair
wanted to take a moment to thank you, Officers and Board
fellow members, for continuing to share
HALL OF FAME
great stories and articles. The quality of
Joel Gavriele-Gold
your work is what makes our quarterly Bryna Comsky
Ruff Drafts something people look for-
LIAISON WITH CAT WRITERS ASSOCIATION
ward to receiving. The time you commit Susan Ewing
to creating and submitting materials
MEMBERSHIP
to this publication is a generous gift.
Marsha Pugh, Chair
Thanks also to our amazing webmaster Bryna Comsky, Susan Ewing
and graphic designer, Angela Capo-
RUFF DRAFTS
danno (angela@visualspring.net). She Merrie Meyers, Editor
takes what you offer and makes it even Morgan Humphrey, Assistant Editor
better by making sure that every article Angela Capodanno, Designer
receives the prominent positioning it SOCIAL MEDIA
Merrie Meyers, Editor of Ruff Drafts
deserves. Facebook: Shelley Bueche, Lisa Begin-Kruysman
And, I want to tip my paw to two Twitter: Dawn Taylor
other behind-the-scenes angels. The scription food, occasional medical pro- WEBMASTER
first is our cartoonist, Janice Binoik (re- cedures). So, I can’t say no to teaching Angela Capodanno
alpets@aol.com). She faithfully crafts a one or two classes a semester or writing
cartoon for every issue, all designed to a grant or two.
deliver a quick smile. But, my biggest In the meantime, you – dear col-
Ruff Drafts
thanks goes to Jen Reeder, our outgo- leagues – are my inspiration. Hoping to
send all material to Merrie Meyers
ing president. Not only is she an amaz- branch out from technical and non-fic- merrie.meyers@gmail.com
ing editors’ editor, catching typos and tion writing, I joined with some nearby
ISSUE DEADLINES
other grammatical faux pas so that we authors to form a writers group this
always look our best, but she is a great year. We gather monthly to critique Spring, March 1
Summer, June 1
motivator. Jen is always in my corner. each other’s work. It’s stressful getting Fall, September 1
Everyone should have a Jen on their the materials together, but rewarding Winter, December 1
team. Her emails always end with a mo- to get feedback. When it was my turn The editor reserves the right to refuse and/or edit material,
tivational cheer. I don’t know where her to submit, I shared some of my Ruff and is not responsible for errors in difficult to read copy.
Every attempt will be made to publish information
energy and positivity come from, but if Drafts work. Although I only submit- accurately. Submission implies right to publish all or in part.
she ever bottles it, I’m ordering a case. ted my work to be reviewed, my fellow Unsigned or misleading material is not accepted. Material
This has been a transition year for group members used the link to read published is the opinion of the author and does not imply
endorsement by the editor or DWAA. Neither editor nor
me. I left full-time work in May, but it through multiple issues. Boy, were they DWAA assumes liability for information contained herein or
seems I’m a failure at retirement. My impressed! typographical errors. Reproduction of photos and editorial
very senior dogs demand a cetain life- is forbidden without permission.
style (veterinary specialists, pricey pre- See EDITOR'S LETTER pg 27
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 3
2018 DWAA
Writing
Competition
FINALISTS Regular Categories
Congratulations to the finalists in the • Everyone Should Have Their Pets • Oldies But Goodies by Jen Reeder
2018 DWAA Writing Competition! All Microchipped by Susan Ewing • Saving the Chain Dogs: Dog by Dog
nominees needed to score at least 80 • Have a Heart for a Shelter Shepherd by Pam Gleason
points out of 100 to qualify for awards, by Joanne Anderson 4. ARTICLE – ART OR ANY OTHER TOPIC
and the caliber of entries was terrific! • It’s A War by Kim Kavin • Are Pets Gaining Personhood Status?
We will announce the winners on 2. ARTICLE – BEHAVIOR OR TRAINING by Patti Lawson
Sunday, Feb. 10 at the DWAA Awards • Do Dogs Really Get One Free Bite? by • Baxter’s Pet Pantry by Joanne Anderson
Banquet at the iconic New Yorker Ho- Patti Lawson • Dog Fight by Kim Kavin
tel. Keynote speakers are Jill Rappaport • Dogs Can “Read” Us by Joanne • What Happens If You Die Before Your
and Steve Dale. There are only 100 seats Anderson Pets by Patti Lawson
available so please purchase your tick- • Making Vet Visits Fear Free by Susan
ets online before they sell out. Good Ewing
B. Magazines
luck and thank you all for creating such • Separation Anxiety Not Just For Shy 5. SINGLE, RELATED, OR ALL-BREED
fantastic work about dogs! Dogs by Kim Campbell Thornton • AKC Family Dog by Liz Donovan and
A. Newspaper Articles and 3. Article – Rescue the staff of AKC Family Dog
• Dogster Magazine by Melissa L.
Columns • Adopting the Right Furry Friend for Kauffman and Annie Shirreffs
1. ARTICLE – HEALTH OR GENERAL CARE You Takes Some Forethought by Kim • The Pointing Dog Journal by Jillian
• Taking the Pet Out of Petrified – Dr. Campbell Thornton LaCross
Marty Becker, “America’s Veterinarian” • Go Dog Go Pooch Powers Through • The Retriever Journal by Jillian
by Denise Alexandra Fleck Race by Allen Laman LaCross
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 4
6. ANNUAL, SPECIAL INTEREST, OR 11. ARTICLE/COLUMN – ART OR ANY • Help is a Four-Legged Word
ANY OTHER OTHER TOPIC by Canine Companions for
• Chronicle of The Dog by Devon • A Veterinarian’s Prescription for Grief Independence
Hubbard Sorlie and Chris Guzicki (or, How I Mourned My Own Dog) by • National Purebred Dog Day by Susi
• From Rescued to Rescuer – USA Karen R. Fine, DVM Eniko Szeremy
Today Pet Guide by Nancy Monson • Home Growing Our Heroes by Penny • The Pet Safety Crusader’s BLOG &
Leigh VLOG by Denise Alexandra Fleck
C. Magazine Articles • Testing the Limits by Penny Leigh 15. MAGAZINE OR NEWSLETTER
7. ARTICLE – HEALTH OR GENERAL CARE • Safety, Comfort are the New Black by • AKC Canine Partners News by Penny
• A Better Biome (Fecal Transplants) by Laurren Darr Leigh
CJ Puotinen • For Active Dogs! Newsletter – Canine
D. Canine or All-Animal
• Cancer, Canines and the Human Sports Productions by Chris Zink
Connection by Rachel Brix Newspapers or Newsletters • Speaking of Dogs Rescue newsletter
• The Fear Free Revolution by Jen 12. CANINE OR ALL – ANIMAL NEWSPA- by Lorraine Houston, Nancy Foran
Reeder PERS OR NEWSLETTERS and Cathy Vandergeest
• Ticks’ Increasing Threat by Kim • DogWatch newsletter by Cynthia • The IAABC Journal by Mychelle Blake,
Campbell Thornton Foley and Debra M. Eldredge, DVM Jesse Miller and Marjie Alonso
8. ARTICLE – BEHAVIOR OR TRAINING • GRRAND GRROWL of Golden
G. Online Articles or Blog Entries
• Behavior Matters! by Laura Retriever Rescue and Adoption of
Donaldson Needy Dogs by Devon Hubbard 16. ARTICLE OR BLOG – HEALTH OR
• Communicating Effectively – Proper Sorlie GENERAL CARE
Diagnosis, Correct Terminology • The Companion – Canine • Achy Joints? – Pet Connection/
Essential by Melissa McMath Hatfield Companions for Independence by Andrews McMeel Syndication by Kim
MS, CBCC-KA, CDBC John Bentzinger & CCI Editorial Staff Campbell Thornton
• Look At That by Laura Donaldson • Tufts YOUR DOG Newsletter by Larry • Flu Factors – Pet Connection/
• Taking It to the Streets by Mara Lindner Andrews McMeel Syndication by Kim
Bovsun Campbell Thornton
E. Canine or All-Animal • Inside Heartworm – Pet Connection/
9. ARTICLE – RESCUE
• From Shelter Dog to Therapy Dog:
Newspapers or Newsletters Andrews McMeel Syndication by Kim
The Story of Murray by Cori Solomon Articles and Columns Campbell Thornton
• Rising from the ashes: Former • Twist of Fate – Pet Connection/
13. ANY TOPIC Andrews McMeel Syndication by Kim
shelter dog helps firefighters cope
• Canine Cataracts by Deb M. Campbell Thornton
with stress and grief by Laura Teresa
Eldredge, DVM
Coffey 17. ARTICLE OR BLOG – BEHAVIOR OR
• Choosy About Chews by Deb M.
• The Soul of Saving a Senior Pet by TRAINING
Eldredge, DVM
Christy A. Doherty • On “Fixing” Behavior Problems:
• Hands-On Healing: Physical
10. ARTICLE – BREED Reachable Goals and Wishful
Rehabilitation for Animals by Lyn T.
• Comfort Dogs: Golden Retrievers Thinking by Jennifer Leigh
Garson CVT, CCRP
Offer Emotional Support in Difficult Summerfield
• OP/ED: The Integrity of Our Words by
Times by Amy Hempe • Through Thick and Thin: Caring For
Kate J. Kuligowski
• For Laughter and Little Ones by Mara and Training Companion Dogs With
Bovsun F. Online Disabilities by Nee Kang, Jeffrey Lee
• Lab Lifeguard by Jen Reeder and Nan Arthur
14. BLOGSITE OR WEBSITE • Top 10 Tips for Dealing with a
• Using Degenerative Myelopathy • Dogster.com by Melissa L. Kauffman
Genetic Test Results in Predicting Traumatic Dog Experience by Nancy
and Cait Kelly Tanner
Litter Outcomes by Nancy P. Melone, • Goodnewsforpets.com by Lea-Ann
Ph.D Germinder Continued on next page
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 5
Continued from previous page • Fall Fun with Fido by Melanie Feldges • Haiku by Dog: Laughing by Susan C.
• The Tail End: Delta Airlines Toughens Willett
• What Big Ships Can Teach You
ESA Policy by Jeroen van Rossum • She’s Just Like Me by Debra Lampert-
About Walking Your Dog by Pamela
23. SERIES OF ILLUSTRATIONS Rudman
Douglas Webster
• What Type of Training Do Therapy OR PAINTINGS 27. SHORT FICTION
Dogs Need? by Risë VanFleet • Clean Paws are Very Important For A • Balance Due by Susan J. Kroupa
Scottie, You Know by Pilar Kuhn, Rod • The Poodle Who Picked Pockets by
18. ARTICLE OR BLOG – RESCUE
Ott and Valeria Moldovan Lynn Franklin
• A Passion for Helping Pooches by
• Marla Wears A Halo – Hartwood Pet • There’s Always Room For Jell-O by
Jayson Kimberly
Lodge LLC by Carol McElhaney and James Colasanti Jr.
• How the Internet is Changing the
Joan Critz Limbrick 28. ESSAYS/EDITORIALS
Way Dogs Find Homes by Gray
• Ollie the Autism-Support Collie – • Cloud-based Hope by Susan C.
Chapman
LawMux Press by Billie Holladay Willett
• Saving the Dogs of Kauai by Christy
Skelley, James Paul Skelley • Doodlewhacked: a Memoir by Susan
A. Doherty
• Wish and Hope: Images from the J. Kroupa
• The Special Bond of Older Dogs and
National Dog Week Blog honoring • Crossing Off the List by Zach Hively
Older Owners by Jen Reeder
its 90th Observation by Lisa Begin- • What I’ve Learned from Smudge,
19. ARTICLE OR BLOG – ANY OTHER TOPIC Kruysman Lola, and Dewey by Kendle Rae Frank
• Fly Away Home by Susan J. Kroupa
24. POSTERS, CALENDARS, BROCHURES OR
• No PAWS About It: Hiring a
PAMPHLETS
J. Other Media
Professional Pet Sitter is the Right
• Bernese Mountain Dog Calendar 29. VIDEO, DVD, OR TV BROADCASTS
Move for Your Pet by Denise
2019 by Dr. Bernd Guenter • Behind the Scenes With David Frei:
Alexandra Fleck
• Chester & Friends 2019 Calendar by Live on Facebook by Carol Bryant
• Paw Preferences & Dog Emotion by
Christina Potter and Taylor Potter • Canine Reproduction, Whelping and
Chris Zink
• Guide to Dog Walks, Beaches and Puppy Intensive Care Seminar by
• The Power of Rescue: How a Dog
Pet Services by Judy Macomber and Myra Savant
Helped 2 Boston Marathon Bombing
Beverly Haney • How to Judge the St. Bernard by
Survivors Heal by Laura Teresa Coffey
• Portuguese Water Dog 2019 by Janice Davis
H. Graphics Nutmeg Portuguese Water Dog • WGN TV Midday Fix: Dog Walking
Club, Inc. Tips with Laura Monaco Torelli by
20. SINGLE PHOTO
Laura Monaco Torelli, Kristina Miller
• Hank Dock Diving by Kevin Cummings I. Humor, Poetry, Short Fiction,
Liberatore and Vicki Zwart
• Jasper “Nose” Leaves by Susan C. Willett Essays/Editorials
• Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P. Inc. by 30. RADIO, PODCAST, OR OTHER AUDIO
Janet Ann Brake 25. HUMOR • LEPTOSPIROSIS SYMPTOMS,
• Tucker Has a Ball in the Fall by Susan • Bark Out Loud by Heather Blaine TREATMENTS AND PREVENTION by
C. Willett Marcoux Laura Jane Reeves
• Bunny Come Home – The Aussie • LORI WELLS AND PIGLET
21. SERIES PHOTO
Times by Elizabeth M. Jarrell – CATAHOULA LEOPARD
• How Good Breeders Raise Puppies
• Trade Secrets by Nancy Tanner DOG|SEARCH AND RESCUE by
Who Grow Into Happy, Confident
• When Your Dog Is Socially Awkward Laura Jane Reeve
Dogs by Linda C. Rehkopf
(And So Are You) by Kristin M. Avery • Reliable Recalls – Dog Talk With Dr.
• Show Me the Bunny – The Rip Van
26. POETRY Jen by Jennifer Leigh Summerfield
Wrinkle Basenji Club by Joe Stewart
• A Thousand Tears . . . Song For A • The Doggie Bucket List – The Raven
22. SINGLE ILLUSTRATION OR PAINTING Narratives by Zach Hively
Magical-Dawg by Amy Shojai, CABC
• Blue Stove Beach – The Rip Van
• Haiku by Dog: Chasing by Susan C.
Wrinkle Basenji Club by Susan
Willett
Kamen Marsicano
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 6
K. Club Publications
(National, Regional or Local) Contest Chair
31. MAGAZINE FORMAT
• Australian Shepherd Journal by
Kathleen Glaes and Leslie Ziesing
• Spotter – Dalmatian Club of America
REPORT
by Katherine Szomoru, Debbie Zink By Laurren Darr
and Jennifer Cramer CONTEST CHAIR
• The Bagpiper, Official Publication of Being the contest chair has giv-
the Scottish Terrier Club of America en me an entirely new perspective
by Scottish Terrier Club of America on the annual contest. I first saw a
• The Courier – The Official Maxwell Medallion on a children’s
Publication of the Portuguese Water book in the mid-2000s and was so
Dog Club of America by Susan impressed with the award when I
Myrick researched both the organization
32. NEWSLETTER FORMAT and contest. When I started judg-
• BCOA Bulletin Board – Basenji Club ing, I realized that the talent pool
of America by Mary Ellen Chaffin & was vast and varied. Now, I’ve be-
Suzanne La Croix come even more awestruck with
• Five Ways to Make Your Entle’s the caliber of people that enter
Walk Extra Special on “Walking the their work in the annual contest.
Dog Day” February 22nd by Linda Many of you know that my son
Liebrand races a race car. Sometimes the
• International Association of Animal winner of the race is literally de-
Behavior Consultants by Jesse Miller termined by thousandths of a sec-
• National Search Dog Alliance by Sue ond. That’s how close I felt many
C. Wolff and Norma Snelling of the categories were this year in
the contest – not just for winning
L. Club Publication Articles the Maxwell Medallion, but even
Laurren Darr
33. ARTICLE – ANY TOPIC between the top finalists. So, truly,
• Hurricane Harvey Horror and Heroes making it as a finalist is an honor. And, if someone didn’t make it as a finalist,
by June Greig it was likely by the smallest margin – literally out to the hundredths decimal
• Off-Colored Bostons Not the point. If I’m remembering correctly, I first joined the Dog Writers Association
Standard by Patricia S. Johnson of America in 2008 and entered the contest for the first time. I didn’t make the
• Rocky’s Hemangiosarcoma Journey finals and win a Maxwell Medallion until 2015. So, I know how very tough the
by Matt Repko competition is from personal experience!
• Test Your Testicle Knowledge by This year, the majority of entries were done online. A steady stream of
Michele Gawenka entries came from the opening of the contest in July to the mad rush at the
deadline of the contest in December. (We are writers and get those adrenaline
34. REGULAR COLUMN OR SERIES
rushes with deadlines, don’t we?) Once an entry is sent in, whether online or
• Breed Standard Column: Getting
via mail, it gets recorded onto the appropriate judging sheet along with all
the Full Picture & All in the Family by
the information being kept on a separate spreadsheet. Checks get sent to the
Matthew Mullin
treasurer, links are checked for online entries, and a lot of organizing “magic”
• In The Path of a Hurricane by
(at least that’s what I’ll call it) happens behind the scenes.
Barbara E. Magera, Jody Sutton and
To ensure the integrity of the contest, there are over 90 judges who are
Elaine L. Mitchell
judging the more than 600 entries for the contest. Each regular category has
Continued on next page See CONTEST REPORT pg 13
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 7
Continued from previous page 37. RESCUE OR ADOPTION VanFleet and Tracie Faa-Thompson
• Another Good Dog: One Family and • Dogs with Jobs by Laura Greaves
• Tervuren News Tales by Joni L.
Fifty Foster Dogs by Cara Achterber • Leaving the Wild: The Unnatural
Freshman, DVM
• Let’s Git Outta Here by Kate J. History of Dogs, Cats, Cows and
• The Advocate – Owner Handler
Kuligowski Horses by Gavin Forbes Ehringer
Association of America by Richard E.
• The Returned: Chewy’s Story by 41. REFERENCE
Grant
Samantha K. Riggi • City Dog Walking Safety & Etiquette –
M. Club Special Publication 38. TRAINING OR SPORTS Pups & Purrs Press by Sunny Weber
35. CLUB SPECIAL PUBLICATION • Barn Hunt: A Game of Hide & Seek • Let’s Make You a Winner: A Judge’s
• 40 High Points in 40 Years: for Dogs by Deb M. Eldredge, DVM Perspective on Showing Dogs by Pat
Mayflower Pembroke Welsh and Eva M. Raczka Hastings and Erin Ann Rouse
Corgi Club Celebrates 1977-2017, • K9 Search Rescue Troubleshooting • The Teaching Dog by Nicole Larocco-
Mayflower Pembroke Welsh Corgi by Susan Bulanda Skeehan
Club, Dr. Michaelann Cox Mako and • Modern Enthusiastic Tracking, the • The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip
Cynthia Read Step-by-Step Training Handbook by by Amy Burkert
• BCOA Yearbook – Basenji Club of William R. Sanders 42. FICTION, YOUNG ADULT OR HUMOR
America by Mary Ellen Chaffin and • Training Your German Shepherd Dog • Ears for Murder by Sue Owens Wright
Suzanne La Croix by Joan Hustace Walker and Brandy • Maritime Summer by Karen Anne
• Chronicle of The Dog, 25th Eggeman Harbert
Anniversary Issue by Devon 39. BEHAVIOR, HEALTH, OR GENERAL CARE • Medium Rare by Karen Anne Harbert
Hubbard Sorlie and Chris Guzicki • Keeping the Peace: A Guide to • Ghosts of the Buffalo Wheel by Joe
• Westminster Kennel Club 2018 Solving Dog-Dog Aggression in the Jennings
Official Program by Gail Miller Home by Nicole Wilde 43. CHILDREN
Bisher, Lisa Peterson • Let Dogs Be Dogs by Marc Goldberg • Clean Paws Are Very Important For A
and the Monks of New Skete
N. Books • My Patients Like Treats: Tales form a
Scottie, You Know by Pilar Kuhn and
Rod Ott
36. SINGLE, RELATED, OR ALL-BREED House-Call Veterinarian by Duncan • Miss Olive Finds Her “Furever” Home
• Entlebucher Mountain Dogs – What I MacVean, DVM by Susan M. Campbell
Wish I Knew by Linda Liebrand • Secrets of the Snout: The Dog’s • Ollie the Autism-Support Collie by
• JONATHAN: Wolfsong’s Last Chapter Incredible Nose by Frank Rosell Billie Holladay Skelley and James
by Alice Lovejoy Carnahan 40. HUMAN ANIMAL BOND Paul Skelley
• Samoyed Tales Trilogy by Jim • Adventures with Durango Pete by • Pepe Learns to Run Again; an
Cheskawich, Annie Reid and Cheryl Stephen Hinman inspirational true story by Christina
Lynn West • Animal Assisted Play Therapy by Risë Potter
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Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 8
Finalists AKC Responsible Dog Ownership 1000 to 1500 words must be published
in a print or online publication. The
Public Service Award focus of the article should exemplify the
Special Awards Sponsored by the American Kennel
Club, this award goes to the writer of a
virtues of owning a specific purebred
dog. A high-resolution .jpeg (at least
Thank you to the generous sponsors print or online feature article that best 300 dpi) should accompany the article
of the DWAA Special Awards – and con- educates pet owners about responsible that depicts the canine about which the
gratulations to the finalists! We hope to dog ownership. The award consists of a article is written. The article should be
see you all at the DWAA Awards Ban- plaque and a $500 cash grant. To enter, clearly and succinctly written, and should
quet on Feb. 10, 2019 when we’ll an- submit one article, which must also be outline the advantages of purebred dog
nounce the winners … good luck! entered in this year’s contest in one of ownership, with a unique journalistic
the regular categories. voice. $350 cash grant.
AKC Club Publication
• In Case of Accident… by Caroline • For Laughter and Little Ones by Mara
Excellence Award Coile Bovsun
Sponsored by the American Kennel • Is Heartworm Prevention a Scam? by • Salvation Of All-Breed Clubs by Linda
Club, this award is for the best article Caroline Coile E. Kornhi
in a national, regional or local AKC club • Protecting Your On-Leash Dog • Search and Rescue Dogs: Making The
publication in magazine or newsletter and What to Do Should the Worst Lost Found Again by Bev Thompson
format. The award consists of a plaque Happen by Denise Alexandra Fleck • What Teddy Taught Us by Mara
and a $500 cash grant. Bovsun
The AKC Family Dog Award
• Five Ways to Make Your Entle’s The Captain William Lewis Judy
Sponsored by the American Kennel
Walk Extra Special on “Walking the
Club, this award is for the best writing
Award
Dog Day” February 22nd by Linda
Liebrand (including books, articles and blog posts) Sponsored by American Legion Post
• Safety, Comfort are the New Black by about any or all of the good manners 348 of Brick Township, New Jersey.
Laurren Darr programs under the AKC Family Dog For a submission in any form of media
• Sheep du Soleil by Elizabeth M. umbrella, including AKC Therapy Dog, that educates the public about the
Jarrell AKC Trick Dog, AKC Canine Good Citizen, important role our military dogs play
AKC Community Canine, Urban CGC and in our Armed Forces, including issues
AKC Reunite Microchip AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy. While participating in affecting their emotional and physical
Awareness Award these activities that are fun for both dogs care during their training, active service
and people, dogs become well-socialized and retirement. The award consists of a
Sponsored by AKC Reunite for the and develop a lifelong bond with their $350 cash grant.
best article on how microchips can owners. This award consists of a $500
be used in pet recovery. Articles can • Four-Legged Warriors – Pet
cash grant.
include recovery stories of how dogs Connection/Andrews McMeel
• AKC Trick Dog Perform Title: Starring Syndication by Kim Campbell
were identified or returned to owners,
William the Circus Ringmaster and Thornton
permanent identification in cases of
his Uncaged Bear Act by Elizabeth M • Megan Leavey, K9 Rex and Bringing
theft, uses of microchips to confirm
Jarrell Home K9 Heroes by Laura Jane
identity of dogs in competition, etc.
• No Dog Left Behind? by Caroline Reeves
The award is a $1,000 cash grant. For
Coile
information about actual recovery The Ceva Heartworm Prevention
stories, writers can contact AKC Reunite The Canine Scribbles Award Award
at microchip@akcreunite.org.
Sponsored by Canine Scribbles, LLC,
• A Tale of Two Lost Dogs by Caroline Sponsored by Ceva Animal Health,
this is awarded for the best article that
Coile this award is for the best article that
promotes the reasons to own a purebred
• Everyone Should Have Their Pets
canine. The fiction or nonfiction article of
Microchipped by Susan Ewing Continued on next page
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 9
Continued from previous page
educates the public about heartworm
awareness and prevention tips. The
winner will receive a $1,500 grant.
• Heartworm Disease Deadly But
Preventable by Christy Elizabeth
Caplan
• Inside Heartworm – Pet Connection/
Andrews McMeel by Kim Campbell
Thornton
• Is Heartworm Prevention a Scam?
– Canine Chronicle Magazine by
Caroline Coile
DWAA Robert H. McKowen
DWAA Junior Writer Award Memorial Friends of Rescue
Award
Sponsored by Karen Petit, an author of children’s books, for writers under
18 years of age. This award is to recognize and encourage young writers Sponsored by his family and friends.
who exhibit talent, resourcefulness, dedication and integrity in their writing For the best article describing the
about dogs and dog-related topics. Award: $400 cash grant, DWAA Maxwell rescue process: adoption, fostering,
Medallion and lapel pin. transporting, home visits or other
aspects of rescue. $300 cash grant.
CATEGORY: 7-9
¤¤ Atlas by Nikolas Anthony Klimenko, 9 • A Piglet State of Mind by Melissa S.
(Read this winning entry on page 17) Shapiro, DVM
• From Rescued to Rescuer by Nancy
CATEGORY: 10-12 Monson
¤¤ A Passion for Helping Pooches by Jayson Kimberly, 12
• Points to consider when adopting a
(Read this winning entry on page 17)
pet by Kim Campbell Thornton
CATEGORY: 13-14 • Rising from the ashes: Former
¤¤ Full Circle by Daly Dodsworth, 13 shelter dog helps firefighters cope
(Read this winning entry on page 19) with stress and grief by Laura Teresa
CATEGORY: 15-17 Coffey
¤¤ What I've Learned from Smudge, Lola, and Dewey by Kendle Rae Frank, 16
The Fear Free Pets Award
(Read this winning entry on page 20)
Sponsored by Fear Free, LLC, this is
DWAA is thrilled to announce that we had a big influx of entries from writ-
awarded for the article, book, blog, TV
ers under the age of 18, thanks to DWAA’s new Young Writers on the Web pro-
segment, radio spot, video, column or
gram, which offers mentorship to budding dog writers. Thanks to an anony-
other creative media format that best
mous donor offering matching grants, in this first year, we are awarding four
educates, promotes, or demonstrates
awards by age group! Congratulations to the winners!
the importance and benefits of taking
One of the goals of Young Writers on the Web was to help children and
a dog to a Fear Free certified veterinary
teens have the opportunity to have their work about dogs published. All four
professional. This may also include
of the winning entries for the DWAA Junior Writer Award were originally pub-
how a dog’s emotional well-being can
lished on the DWAA website as part of the program! We are reprinting them
play a role in all aspects of its life and
in Ruff Drafts so that you can all be inspired by the talent and passion for dogs
health, including veterinary care, how
in the next generation. Enjoy!
decreasing fear, anxiety, and stress is
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 10beneficial to the patient and owner both The GNFP Digital Canine • Piglet, the Deaf Blind Pink Puppy
during the veterinary visit and at home, Visits Classrooms to Educate, Inspire,
a focus on Fear Free applications pre-
Companion Award and Create Smiles by Melissa S.
and post-veterinary visit, successful case Sponsored by GNFP Digital, this award Shapiro, DVM
studies/stories of how a dog went from is for the best digital story – online • What Teddy Taught Us by Mara
fearful to Fear Free during or throughout video, blog post or online article with Bovsun
the course of a single or series of photography that best demonstrates
veterinary visits, positive experiences
The Heroes for Healthy Pets
the bond between people and their
working with a Fear Free certified canine companions. The content must Award
veterinary professional or anything that be demonstrated as having been Sponsored by Merck Animal Health, this
highlights how Fear Free and what it shared through digital media. The award is open to all forms of media that
stands for is all around better for staff, winner will receive a $1,000 grant and cover topics on infectious diseases that
patients, and clients. This award consists a special gift. affect dogs. The winner will receive a
of a $2,000 cash grant and a one-of-a-
• A Piglet State of Mind by Melissa S. plaque and a $1,500 cash grant.
kind commemorative award.
Shapiro, DVM • Canine Influenza Is Here to Stay by
• Brave New World: Fear-Free • Piglet, the Deaf Blind Pink Puppy’s Debra M. Eldredge, DVM
Veterinary Visits by Caroline Coile Trip to the First Annual Special K9 • Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs by
• Changing Behaviors by Sarah Games by Melissa S. Shapiro, DVM Christine Caplan
Rumple • Piglet, the Deaf Blind Pink Puppy • Ticks’ Increasing Threat by Kim
• The Fear Free Revolution by Jen Visits Classrooms to Educate, Inspire, Campbell Thornton
Reeder and Create Smiles by Melissa S.
Shapiro, DVM James Colasanti, Jr. Poetry
Fear Free Dog Enrichment Award
• The Power of Rescue: How a Dog Award
Sponsored by Fear Free, LLC, this is Helped 2 Boston Marathon Bombing
awarded for the article, book, blog, TV Survivors Heal by Laura Teresa Coffey For the poem/poetry which best
segment, radio spot, video, column or exemplifies the unconditional love of a
other creative media formats that best
The Harrison Stephens dog. Sponsored by James Colasanti Jr.
educates, promotes, or demonstrates Inspirational Feature Award The award is a $200 cash grant.
how enrichment activities (exercise, • Atlas by Nikolas Anthony Klimenko
Named in honor of Harrison Stephens,
food puzzles, scent training, etc.) can • A Thousand Tears . . . Song For A
a newspaper editor who wrote
benefit a dog’s emotional—not just Magical-Dawg by Amy Shojai
thought-provoking features marked
physical—well-being and the role that • She’s Just Like Me by Debra Lampert-
by journalistic integrity and humor
has in their overall health. This may Rudman
until his death just before his 100th
also include topics relating to how the
resulting benefits of such enrichment
birthday. This award is for a feature The Pet Fashion Guild Pet
article that highlights the human-
to the dog’s emotional well-being can
canine bond and leaves the reader
Fashion Award
help set them up for more successful
with a smile. Potential topics include Sponsored by Pet Fashion Guild, this
veterinary visits in the future, thus living
working dogs (or a lazy dog with a award is for a submission in any form of
a happier, healthier life. This award
winning personality), or dog-centric media that demonstrates the enhanced
consists of a $2,000 cash grant and a
nonprofits that promote positive bonds and connections between
one-of-a-kind commemorative award.
outcomes for pets and people. The humans and their dog(s) through pet
• How Good Breeders Raise Puppies award is sponsored by Sally and Tom fashion. This award consists of a $350
Who Grow Into Happy, Confident Reeder and consists of a $300 grant. cash grant.
Dogs by Linda C. Rehkopf
• A Perfect Match by Susan Wroble • Quick and Easy Halloween Costumes
• Making Vet Visits Fear Free by Susan
• Piglet, the Deaf Blind Pink Puppy’s by Bryn Nowell
Ewing
Trip to the First Annual Special K9
• Never Fear by Caroline Coile
Games by Melissa S. Shapiro, DVM Continued on next page
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 11• The Wedding…The World According • Chloe’s Adventure Cori’s Nightmare: Garden. The winner will also receive
to Rosebud and Brody by Ted Slupik A Lost Dog Rescue Story by Cori $300.
and Gail Diedrichsen Solomon • American Cocker Spaniel Striker
• What Not to Wear – Dog Leashes by • On The Move With Your Best Friend Comes Close at Westminster by Carol
Kate Eldredge by Denise Alexandra Fleck Bryant
• The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip
The PSI Professional Pet Care by Amy Burkert
• Four Dog Shows – The Post-Journal
by Susan Ewing
Award • Top 12 Dangers of Traveling With • Our New York City Adventures:
Dogs By Car by Carol Bryant Progressive, Meadowlands and
Sponsored by Pet Sitters International
(PSI), this award is presented to the The Take Your Dog Award Westminster 2018 by Barbara E.
entry that best educates pet owners Magera and Elaine L. Mitchell
about the benefits of using professional Sponsored by Take Your Dog To Work
pet sitters. Qualifying online or print Day® creator Pet Sitters International,
entries include newspaper or magazine this award is presented to the entry Dogwise Best Book Award
articles and blog posts. This award that best highlights the special human-
canine bond and importance of pet Sponsored by Dogwise Publishing.
consists of a $300 cash prize.
adoptions. Qualifying print or online $500 to the author of the best
• Bloat in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms and book. The winner will be chosen
entries include newspaper or magazine
Prevention Tips by Carlotta Cooper by the president of DWAA from
articles, blog posts and personal essays.
• No PAWS About It: Hiring a the winners of all the book
The award consists of a $300 cash prize.
Professional Pet Sitter is the Right categories. The award is a $500
Move for Your Pet by Denise • A Mighty Pip: Grief, Reflection, and
cash grant and will be announced
Alexandra Fleck Four Years Gone by Kristin M. Avery
at the Feb. 10 DWAA Awards
• Pet Separation Anxiety by Christy • Piglet, the Deaf Blind Pink Puppy
Banquet.
Caplan Visits Classrooms to Educate, Inspire,
and Create Smiles by Melissa S.
The Rio Award Shapiro, DVM
• The Soul of Saving a Senior Pet by
Sponsored by Jen Reeder and Bryan Cheers to All the Nominees
Christy A. Doherty
Fryklund in honor of their beloved
And Happy 2019!
Labrador retriever mix, Rio, this award is The Walter R. Fletcher Memorial
for an article, book or essay that profiles
Award
a dog who changed someone’s life in
a profoundly positive way. The award Sponsored by The Westminster Kennel
consists of a $300 cash prize. Club in memory of legendary dog show
• Dogs with Jobs by Laura Greaves reporter Walter Fletcher, this annual
• Let Dogs Be Dogs by Marc Goldberg award goes to the reporter who best
and the Monks of New Skete exemplifies continued press coverage of
• My Deceased Dog Connected With dog shows in America. The writer must
Me In The Twilight Zone by Carol have written a bylined article in a print
Bryant or online general interest publication
about a dog show (or shows). The
The Sleepypod Pet Safety Award winner will be honored with a reserved
seat in the Walter Fletcher Memorial
Sponsored by Sleepypod, this award is
Chair for both nights of the 2018
for the best article or book that shares
Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
tips for pet safety during travel and/or
The chair is located at the end of the
anecdotes of dogs helped by owners
front row, in the working press section,
who take safety precautions. The award
on the arena floor of Madison Square
consists of a $500 cash grant.
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 12DWAA Distinguished Service Award
Sponsored by the American Kennel Club, this award honors
extraordinary achievement and communications excellence. It
recognizes the person who, by word, deed, exemplary conduct,
public communication and professional excellence, best
promotes the interest of the sport of dogs. The award consists of
a plaque and a $1,000 cash grant.
¤¤ And the winner is …
Mara Bovsun
Mara Bovsun is an award-winning journalist, author and features
editor of AKC Family Dog. She has volunteered her talents and
expertise for many years with DWAA, from speaking at events to
meeting with members to discuss story ideas and assignments. In
2018, Mara spearheaded DWAA’s inaugural year of Young Writers on
the Web, reaching out to schools and communities about the program
and mentoring budding dog writers. Her passion for nurturing the
careers of writers of all ages is inspiring, as are the lovely articles
and books she crafts about dogs and the people who love them.
Congratulations – and thank you! Mara Bovsun and Emily at the 2018 DWAA Banquet
Photo by Mary Bloom
Contest Report
Continued from pg 7 category receive a certificate for their all finalists in the special award catego-
three judges whose scores are aver- accomplishment. These should be in ries also receive a certificate.
aged. This means that the majority of hand by the third week in December to The top entered regular category
judges had more than one category to all finalists. was the Online Article: Any Other Top-
judge. Thank you to all of the judges For special awards, we had another ic category. For books, two categories
that stepped up to the plate when I con- banner year in both the number of spe- were tied in top number of entries: Fic-
tacted them to judge again. And, thank cial awards and the amount of money tion, Young Adult, or Humor and the
you to the judges that proactively vol- that the entrants could win. Thank you Human/Animal Bond categories. In the
unteered to judge for the first time. I’m to Jen Reeder and Marsha Pugh for special awards, the most entered cate-
sure we’ll be calling on you again in the spearheading that effort. And, a special gory was the Harrison Stephens Inspira-
future. So, consider yourself forewarned thank you to Lea-Ann Germinder and tional Feature Award.
(If we were on social media, I would in- her team at Germinder + Associates - Winners for both regular categories
sert a winking smiley face here). With- and her digital platform GoodNewsFor- and special awards will be announced
out volunteers, the contest would not Pets - for another phenomenal year of at the annual banquet in New York City
run properly or uphold its reputation. publicity for the contest itself. While we at the New Yorker Hotel on February 10,
What does it take to even be consid- have a great number of entries for spe- 2019. Reservations are now being ac-
ered for a Maxwell? First, an entry has to cial awards, even more writers could en- cepted online at DogWriters.org. There
have at least an average score of 80 on ter their work and both be recognized are a limited number of seats. So, grab
a scale of 1 to 100. The Maxwell goes to and earn additional money. It’s a great your seat sooner rather than later! This is
the entry with the highest score in a cat- additional way to be recognized. The a great opportunity meet peers in per-
egory. There are 43 regular categories same rating system and process is fol- son, enjoy time with fellow members,
in this year’s competition. Finalists in a lowed for the special awards. This year, and network. I hope to see you there!
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 13Jill Rappaport
Photo courtesy of Kristin Gray
TV Host Jill Rappaport and Radio
Host/Journalist Steve Dale To Speak
at 2019 DWAA Awards Banquet
The Dog Writers Association of Amer- The banquet takes place the eve- Considered a “Voice for the Voice-
ica (DWAA) is delighted by the keynote ning of Sunday, February 10, 2019, at less,” Jill works tirelessly to make a dif-
speakers for the 2019 DWAA Awards the iconic Hotel New Yorker in Manhat- ference for animals in need by shining
Banquet: Jill Rappaport and Steve Dale. tan. After the speeches, DWAA will an- a light on shelters across America. Rap-
“We’re thrilled that these two lumi- nounce the winners of Maxwell Medal- paport is also the host and consulting
naries in the dog writing community lions as well as a whopping $15,950 in producer of Animal Planet’s new show
will be giving keynote addresses at our special awards. “Dog Bowl,” which was an idea she
annual awards banquet in New York came up with to shine a light on older
City,” said DWAA President Jen Reeder. Jill Rappaport animals in need.
“They both have a wealth of knowl- Jill Rappaport is an award-winning She launched her award-winning
edge, experience and passion for pets. animal advocate, network journalist segment “Bow To Wow” on NBC’s TO-
They will make the night so special for and best-selling author, known nation- DAY show and this popular series aimed
award finalists, guests and members – wide as the popular, longtime corre- at finding shelter animals a one-way
everyone who attends the event!” spondent on NBC. ticket to a loving home, ran for 8 years
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 14and had a 100% adoption record. In to 2014). He has written
addition, Rappaport’s heartfelt animal for a long list of maga-
welfare stories for NBC’S “Nightly News” zines, from People to Dog
really resonated, all going viral. World (where he was a
She has received the first “Voice for columnist).
the Animals” Award from HSUS, The He authors a col-
Presidential Service Award for Media umn called Steve Dale’s
Excellence from the ASPCA, and the Ex- Vet World for Veteri-
cellence in Journalism and Outstanding nary Practice News, and
Contributions to the Pet Industry Award. is also a columnist for
And she has had the honors of ringing the Journal of National
The NYSE Opening and Closing bell, all Association of Veterinary
to raise awareness for pets in need. Technicians in America.
In addition, Rappaport has written Steve co-edited Decod-
four books, three focusing on animal ing Your Dog, written by
welfare including the best-selling Peo- the American College of
ple We Know, Horses They Love, featuring Veterinary Behaviorists
Robert Redford on the cover. She also (Houghton Mifflin Har-
has a complete line of dog and cat toys, court, 2014). Steve’s the
dog treats, leashes, collars, and dog author of e-books, Good
beds all benefiting shelter animals in Dog! and Good
need! She sells the dog and cat toys and Cat! (Chicago Tribune,
dog treats exclusively on QVC. 2013). He’s the author
Rappaport resides on her farm on of several other books,
Long Island, New York, with her six hors- including DogGone Chica-
Steve Dale
es and six rescue dogs whom she refers go and American Zoos.
to as her “fur angels” saying, “Animal Among Steve’s many
welfare is my oxygen, and when you do awards, the AVMA Humane Award youngest person ever inducted into the
what you love, you never work a day in (the only AVMA honor bestowed to a Dog Writers Association of America Hall
your life.” non-veterinarian), Editor and Publish- of Fame.
er syndicated newspaper Feature Writer “Go online: stories about dogs are
Steve Dale of the Year Award, AKC Responsible Dog too often written by people who mere-
Steve Dale, certified animal behavior Ownership Public Service Award (twice), ly want to perpetuate their opinions –
consultant (CABC), is the host of two na- HSUS Pets for Life Award, American Hu- which is fine, except those opinions are
tionally syndicated radio shows, Steve mane Association Media Award, Ameri- too often not based on facts,” Dale said.
Dale’s Pet World and The Pet Minute (to- can Pet Products Association Pet Indus- “When I read a story about dogs or a
gether heard on more than 100 radio try Outstanding Media Representative book is published about dogs, I look to
stations, syndicated Black Dog Radio of the Year, and has been honored with see if that author is a DWAA member.
Productions, since 2005). He’s also a over 15 Maxwell Medallions from the For me, that brings a whole new level of
special contributor at WGN Radio, Chi- Dog Writers Association of America and credibility and integrity. I am so proud to
cago, and program host of Steve Dale’s over 15 Muse Awards from the Cat Writ- be a DWAA member, and so looking for-
Pet World (since 1997). He formerly ers’ Association. He’s also been honored ward to visiting with my colleagues.”
hosted the nationally broadcast Animal by the Chicago Veterinary Medical As-
Both Rappaport and Dale volunteer on the
Planet Radio. sociation, University of Illinois College
board of the Grey Muzzle Organization, a
For 21 years, his twice weekly news- of Veterinary Medicine, and was the nonprofit that offers grants that support
paper column was syndicated by the first recipient of the Winn Feline Foun- senior pet adoptions. There will be an
Chicago Tribune. Steve was a contrib- dation Media Appreciation Award, and exciting announcement involving the Grey
uting editor for USA Weekend (2002 many others. In 2012, Steve became the Muzzle Organization at the banquet as well.
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 15Dog Writers Association of America
Annual Writing Contest Awards Banquet
Sunday, February 10, 2019
The New Yorker - A Wyndham Hotel
The Herald Square Room – 3rd Floor
481 Eighth Ave. New York, NY 10001
(212) 971-0101
4-5 p.m. – General Membership Annual Meeting
5-6 p.m. – Banquet registration/Cash bar opens
6 p.m. – First speech begins
7-9 p.m.– Dinner service and awards ceremony
Please join us for a special evening of networking and celebration! We’ll be announcing the winners of our annual
writing competition, awarding Maxwell Medallions as well as $15,950 in special awards thanks to our generous
sponsors!
We are thrilled to feature keynote speeches by two beloved luminaries in the pet writing community: NBC’s Jill
Rappaport and radio host/journalist Steve Dale. We will induct Deborah Wood into the DWAA Hall of Fame and give
Mara Bovsun the DWAA Distinguished Service Award.
$135.00 per person…Space is limited to the first 100 reservations.
Please select one entrée:
______ Spinach Tortellini with Lemon Cream Sauce
OR
______ Herb French Cut Chicken Breast in a Sauce Poivrade (wine reduction and pepper), served with Butter and
Leek Whipped Potatoes and Sauteed Broccolini
Dinner also includes Traditional Caesar Salad with Garlic Croutons and Parmesan Cheese and Individual Tiramisu
Name of person making the reservation:_______________________________________________________________
E-mail ______________________________________________ Phone________________________________
Number of reservations________________________________ Total amount submitted_________________
Guest name(s)____________________________________________________________________________________
For land mail reservations:
Marsha M. Pugh, Treasurer
P.O. Box 787 Hughesville, MD 20637 REGISTER ONLINE!
Questions: marsha_pugh01@comcast.net
For online entries, please visit
www.dogwriters.org
and click on EVENT
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 16JUNIOR WRITER Award Winners
Atlas
By Nikolas Anthony Klimenko, AGE 9
¤¤ WINNER: DWAA JUNIOR WRITER AWARD, CATEGORY 7-9
Atlas so kind, always sweet and happy.
When someone was happy, Atlas waggled.
When someone suffered, Atlas suffered and,
Always tried to make it better.
His joy, happiness, and love were as contagious as pink eye.
We must respect him as we respect Mother Nature.
He always loved to walk in our neighborhood and in the forest.
He commanded the most pets.
Being with Atlas was like a paradise of love.
Nikolas wrote this lovely tribute to his late dog, Atlas.
A Passion for Helping Pooches
By Jayson Kimberly, AGE 12 my second camp with this organization, I picked a logo, got a T-shirt made with it,
¤¤ WINNER: DWAA JUNIOR WRITER I applied to be on the EIA alumni council. and started spreading the word through
To be on this council, you must organize a Facebook page my mom set up for me.
AWARD, CATEGORY 10-12
and work on a service project. The first message came from a lady
When I first saw Booker in a Facebook I decided pretty quickly that it had who wanted to donate leashes and har-
post, he was in bad shape. His leg was to be something with animals because I nesses, so I had my mom set up a time
bloody, and he looked very sad. He was love them and it makes me happy when we could meet. It was so exciting when
a stray who had been attacked by other someone helps them. Also, I hope some- she arrived because she had about 100
dogs and shot with a pellet gun. day to become a vet so then my job will leashes! These would definitely benefit
I decided to try to help him using be making them feel better. the dogs in our local shelter.
funds raised through two projects I My idea was to collect gently used I always made sure to take pictures of
started last year – Leave it for the Pooch and brand-new toys, treats, food, bed- the donors and their donations, as well
and Pennies Four Paws – to help ani- ding, and any item that might make the as donation drops at foster homes, shel-
mals in need. animals happier in their temporary spots ters, and rescues.
It all began in July 2017, on the way while they wait for their forever homes. More and more people came to
home from a weeklong camp called Ed- After some thinking, I decided to drop off items. People also commented
ucation in Action (EIA). After attending name my project Leave It For the Pooch. Continued on next page
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 17Continued from previous page
on my posts, with nice messages like,
“Keep up the good work!” and “If more
kids were like you, this world would be
a better place.” One lady even named
her dog after me.
Elite Repeat, a local thrift store, al-
lowed me to set up a box to collect drop-
offs. They also set out a jar to raise mon-
ey for Pennies Four Paws, a fund I created
to raise money for vet bills and supplies.
It was through Pennies Four Paws
that I met Booker, the dog I saw on Face-
book who had been so badly hurt. I im-
mediately knew the money I had raised
had to go to pay his vet bills.
My mom contacted Booker’s foster
mom, and we went to the vet to meet
him, bringing him a card, bone, and
blanket. His foster mom came in soon
after I arrived. “You must be Jayson,” she
said as she ran up to me and gave me
a big hug. She told me she recognized
me from Facebook and thanked me for
helping Booker.
Even though he was badly hurt, Most recently, we’ve been raising
Booker still wagged his tail when I pet money for Gracie, a German Shepherd.
him and read him the card. The vet said She may have cancer and Pennies Four
he had a broken shoulder and his leg Paws will contribute money for her sur-
would have to be removed. I was sad for gery.
him having to lose his leg, but the vet I now have T-shirts, caps, and decals
said he would do just fine with three. I sell to raise money for Pennies Four
Booker would now be a tripawd on the Paws, and I continue to gather items for
mend. I raised more money to help with Leave It For the Pooch.
his follow up visits. I hope that my community service
Booker’s foster mom kept me updat- project continues to grow and what I
ed about his progress. Booker cried a lot Pennies Four Paws has since been created will become a well-known orga-
after the surgery. He didn’t like his ban- able to help other dogs. There’s Leo, who nization that helps many more dogs.
dages and tried to chew them off. His was run over by his owner and then left At the end of May, we got the best
foster mom put him in an Angry Birds at a shelter. Mick was shot between the news! Booker has a forever home. I’m
T-shirt and posted a picture on Face- eyes. Noah was dragged by a car. Iver, a glad my donors and I were able to give
book. He looked so cute in it. puppy, is paralyzed. Afghan Hound Ro- him a second chance at a happy life.
Booker kept getting better and bet- man, once a stray, also needed to have
ter. His fur was growing back, his ban- a leg removed because of an injury that You can visit Jayson’s Facebook page
dages came off, and he was walking and got infected. and follow the progress of other dogs
running on three legs. I was so happy to We’ve also helped a kitten, Willow, like Booker at: http://www.facebook.com/
go visit him again because this time, he who needed surgery to go to the bath- groups/1884290271838539/
jumped all over me. room.
Ruff Drafts | WINTER 2019 DOG WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA | PAGE 18Full Circle
By Daly Dodsworth, AGE 13,
¤¤ WINNER: DWAA JUNIOR WRITER
AWARD, CATEGORY 13-14
My name is Daly Dodsworth, and I
am thirteen years old. Three and a half
years ago, I was diagnosed with Type 1
diabetes, an incurable disease caused
by the failure of the pancreas by the
immune system.
Upon being diagnosed, I was in the
hospital for three days. I was scared and
away from my friends and siblings. My
parents alternated spending time with
me. As you would expect, I watched TV
for the duration of my stay, which can
be boring. However, when I look back
on the days that I was in the hospital, Rosebud and Daly
I don’t think of the times I know that I
cried, or the pain from IVs and shots. I
think about the things that brightened dog, Rosebud, who is continuing So- learned about World War II making it
my day, one of them being therapy phie’s kind work. easy to ask questions about his expe-
dogs visiting my room. At the end of his presentation, Ted riences. Natalie, Blanca and I chatted
One particular dog came into my offered any student the opportunity to and asked questions to get to know
room on the second day of my hospital see Rosebud work at a nursing home. the hero. As we talked, I could see the
stay, which is the one I remember most, After his presentation, I made sure to expression on his face soften and his
a rough coated collie named Sophie. tell him I remembered Sophie and him, mood lighten. We ended our visit by
This dog was one in a million. She was which made me want to see Rosebud asking if we could take a picture with
gentle, and like a human, picked up on in action. Wally, and he gladly accepted. We did
my social cues. Of course, I wasn’t afraid My friends, Natalie, Blanca, and I set not know that Wally had not seen any
of dogs, but I wasn’t in a great mood ei- a time with him and were anxious to faces as young as ours in a long time.
ther. It brightened my mood immense- have the opportunity become a reality. Sadly, Wally passed away only days
ly and made my day. The day arrived, and we pulled up to after our visit, but it was told to us that
As I grew older I graduated from the nursing home. As we reunited with he kept repeating the fact he loved our
elementary to middle school. Towards the Slupiks and Rosebud, I knew I was visit, one of his last happy memories.
the end of sixth grade, we prepared for ready to go inside and be a part of the Hearing this as a thirteen year old and
a special presentation. Ted Slupik, au- visits. knowing that I made someone feel so
thor of Sophie, Best Friends Are Forev- As we walked in, the faces in the lob- good felt more than amazing. I don’t
er, talked to us about writing his book by lit up, just like mine had when I had have enough time in the world to ex-
and the power of volunteering. He ex- been the one receiving the visit. We plain each patient that we met, or more
plained how he had trained Sophie to walked the halls with Rosebud, getting importantly, how each of them person-
make hospital visits. I immediately rec- the opportunity to meet many new fac- ally touched my heart.
ognized Ted as the man with the collie es, all with new personalities. One un- After the visit to the nursing home
who visited me. Although Sophie had forgettable visit was the one with Wal- I got to thinking. Ted gets to feel this
passed, Ted was there with his new ly, a World War II veteran. I had recently See FULL CIRCLE pg 21
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