We kick off 2013 by putting the lid on winter and leaping into spring with zest. Julie Hecht helps us understand what all that barking is about; behaviorist Karen London explains why dogs have a fondness for novelty; and Rebecca Wallick talks with Ted Kerasote about his new book in which he gives his prescription for longer-lived dogs. While we’re in agreement with much of what he says, we do take exception to a few of his positions, particularly his stance on spay/neuter. But debate is good, right? John Woestendiek investigates the merging of human and veterinary medicine and the benefits that accrue to both species. In our TechoDog survey we also look at the intersections between dogs and technology; as one amazing example, Emily Anthes interviews an orthopedic vet who creates prosthetic limbs. Plus, another episode of Lee Harrington’s “Chloe Chronicles,” in which Chloe has a marrowbone mishap; and Twig Mowatt reveals how forward-thinking shelters are making adoptions more accessible. In this era of climate change, we look at preparing for the next natural disaster. Then Jayme Moye introduces us to great organization, Animal Experience International that is dedicated to providing volunteer opportunities around the globe.
The Endpiece from none other than E.B. White, author of the classic Charlotte’s Web, is our valentine to you. In this timeless essay, which White wrote during WWII, he talks about his vegetable garden, urban chicken-raising and his irrepressible dog, all topics that are once again in vogue (though dogs have never gone out, thank goodness). All that plus a delectable granola treat recipe, an essential oils primer and a new gallery of smiling dogs. Hope you enjoy it all.
FEATURES
Dog Speak By Julie Hecht
Bionic Limbs By Emily Anthes
TechnoDog A survey of milestones and innovations.
Species-Spanning Medicine By John Woestendiek
POEM: Rosie Speaks By Maxine Kumin
Can Dogs Live Longer? In conversation with Ted Kerasote and Rebecca Wallick
Only a Dog By Donald McCaig
Chloe Chronicles: A marrow bone mishap. By Lee Harrington
Endpiece: A Week in November, (1942) By E. B. White
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I just wanted to commend you on an absolutely fantastic publication. I always look forward to The Bark and can't help but start reading it from the moment I open my mailbox. Your content is captivating, heart-warming and informative. I especially applaud your efforts to overturn misconceptions about shelter dogs and to encourage your readers to consider adopting their next pet and to help their local animal welfare agency or rescue groups. You're changing a lot of hearts and minds, one page at a time.
Thank you for the simple but profound joys you deliver and please keep up the good work! You have a lifelong subscriber in me.