Beckett: A Standout in Heathcote
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- Written by Andrea Seiden
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In a village of cuddly goldendoodles and cockapoos, a large agile, muscular, 70lb German Shepherd named Beckett is a true standout. Shepherds were originally bred as herding dogs, but because of their smarts and loyalty they have become a jack-of-all-trades. They are a very special dog breed and can be trained to do everything from acting in a movie, reminding their owner of medication needs, busting up criminal activity, and assisting the visually impaired. Like her lineage, Beckett has a unique role to play –a loving companion in the Fuchsman/Rifkin family.
Beckett’s owner, Stacy Rifkin, clarifies that Beckett is a female and was named after Becket, Massachusetts where her sons went to Camp Greylock. “Our entire family loves Greylock and the host town, so the name felt right.”
The Fuchsman/Rifkin family has a tradition of giving their dogs a name beginning with the letter B – such as Bruno, Bella, and Bubba. They landed on Beckett as it was an appropriate choice no matter the dog’s gender. Stacy went on to share that after their dog Bruno was put down in September 2019 they felt a real need for another furry friend.
Becket’s arrival could not have come at a better time –the week before the Covid pandemic became a reality and people were ordered to stay home. Just when Scarsdale residents were going mad with a lack of stimulation and connections, Beckett pushed the Fuchsman/Rifkin family to get outside and ultimately, stay sane. Beckett, just a puppy at the time, loved long daily walks. In fact, Stacy and Beckett logged more than 10,000 steps a day.
In addition to serving as a lovable companion on these treks, Beckett was a constant source of fun and entertainment for the family. Together they socialized with other dog owners and spooked neighbors (not used to a Shepherd) on their daily haunts. Beckett’s favorite route included a stop at the Metro Deli where the owners spoiled her with turkey treats and bowl of water.
Today you will still see Stacy walking Beckett each morning, but more often than not, you will see Beckett riding in the backseat getting ready to tackle daily errands. “Just say the word ‘car’ and Beckett runs to the door. “She is my buddy. What more can I say?”
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Hairless Cats -- Purrfect Pets for the Nolan Family
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- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
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Check out these hairless cats from the Nolan family:
Dobby Nolan is a mommy's boy. He actually sits in front of the door to try to block it when his mom Jamie has to leave for work in the mornings. He also loves to jump onto her shoulders to hitch a ride from room to room. His favorite food is Tuna, but he's always happy to eat his brother's dinner for dessert also. Dobby has to eat in a separate area and his mom has to stand there like a police officer watching him.
Draco is his mom's favorite little chunk, who loves nothing more than food, food and more food. He eats his Temptation treats as fast as he possibly can, so he still has time to steal his brother's share. He sleeps nuzzled into his mom's neck every night, and she often stays in uncomfortable sleeping positions with her arm and neck going numb, so as to not disrupt the cuteness overload. His mom calls him Mr. Purrfect, and he enjoys getting belly raspberries.
Luna is his mom's little trouble-maker. His mom calls him her favorite Sour Patch Kid, because he likes to slap his brothers across the face for absolutely no reason at all, and then seconds later cuddle up with them to give sweet kisses. Luna hates his Christmas Sweater (pictured), and he's not afraid to show it.
Dobby, Draco and Luna
Every year Dobby and Draco are so happy to have their school photos posted on Facebook, just like all the other kids. Luna doesn't get to pose for a school photo, because he is always suspended.
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Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Fall
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- Written by Daniel Love
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The Love family's Havanese, WinstonMushrooms, chrysanthemums and candy can dangerous for your dog
Fall can be fun and festive but beware of the potential dangers to your dogs. With leaves covering lawns it is important to stay vigilant when walking your pups. Mold and mushrooms thrive on the ground in the fall and can be highly toxic. Many curious dogs will try to eat them. If you notice that your dog has eaten either mold or a mushroom, carefully collect a sample and notify your veterinarian.
Chrysanthemums are popular landscaping plants in the fall but are also toxic if ingested by dogs and cats. Eating mums can result in vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and shaking. Call your veterinarian immediately if your pet eats these flowers.
if your dog eats a mushroom, call the vet.
Halloween candy can also be dangerous to pets when left low to the ground. Trick or treaters often drop candy when going from house to house so it is important to pay close attention when your dog lingers during their normal walking route in early November. Chocolate is especially dangerous and can be fatal if ingested. Make sure to store candy inside your home in closed containers away from where pets might access it.
It is very important to be aware and alert when walking your dogs in the next few weeks. Dogs can ingest things quickly and fallen leaves tend to camouflage hidden dangers that exist low to the ground where your pets are.
Chrysanthemums are toxic for dogs and cats.
Coco: The Coquette of Greeenacres Avenue
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- Written by Andrea Seiden
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The Cukierman family locked into the name Coco when they saw photos of the chocolate-colored golden doodle that was soon to be their first family pet. As far as they were concerned, it was a perfect descriptor. Perfect until over time, Coco became the color of a foamy cappuccino with a dash of cinnamon. But the name stuck. And, while her fur color might have evolved, one thing has been a constant, Coco is a playful and loving family member. According to her owners, “Coco has retained her puppy enthusiasm despite being 9-years old. She loves lounging on her driveway soaking up the sun.”
Coco is quite the flirt – batting her lashes and smiling at joggers and other dog owners as they pass by. Approach her and she will immediately roll over and ask for a belly rub or treat. No one can resist Coco’s charms, least of all the Cukierman kids. They can’t refuse Coco when she sits under the kitchen table during family dinner time and begs for food. “Cheese, hamburger, broccoli. All fair game!”
Coco is quick to return the culinary treats. Recently for Mrs. Cukierman’s birthday, Coco dragged a small dead rabbit into the house and proudly dropped it at Mrs. Cukierman’s feet. “Happy Birthday, Mom.” Coco seemed to proudly say. Who could get mad?
Coco’s best days are when the entire Cukierman pack is together. She is very attached to them and becomes anxious when they travel without her. She immediately becomes suspicious when duffle bags, trunks or suitcases are lined up in the hallway in anticipation of a vacation, summer camp or professional travel. Not wanting to miss a beat, Coco hops in a valise hoping that no one will notice that she has tucked herself underneath a stack of T-shirts. So far, her attempts to stow away have been thwarted, but you can’t blame a gal for trying.
While the name Coco is a bit of a misnomer, Coco lives up to the reputation of a golden doodle. She’s as affectionate as a golden retriever with the intelligence of a poodle. When asked, her owner shares that she is “as sweet and delicious as a mug of hot chocolate on a cold winter’s day.” Clearly little Coco has warmed the Cukierman’s hearts.
Note to Pet Owners: This week -- when you walk your pet at night, please wear reflective clothing! It's dark early and difficult for drivers to see you walking among the leaves.
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Ozzy: The Pefect Prescription for the Pandemic
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- Written by Katy Goldman
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Ozzy Brown, a/k/a “Ozzy Bear,” is a 2-year old Golden Retriever from Ithaca, New York. She joined the Brown family in June 2020, rescuing her new family of 4 from the doldrums of the first Covid summer. Ozzy’s siblings who are now 16 (Jacob) and 14 (Leah) lobbied hard for a puppy when their beloved summer sleepaway camp announced its closure for the summer. Faced with the prospect of a summer of nothingness – socially isolating and without any structure – Mom and Dad relented, and it was one of the best decisions they ever made! They searched far and wide for a family friendly dog from Maine to Wisconsin to Tennessee. They happened on a bit of luck when the family that was originally intended for Ozzy was suddenly unable to take her.
Ozzy loves playing with her many neighborhood dog friends in Greenacres and, thankfully, negotiated a relatively peaceful co-existence with their 7-year old Siberian cat, Piper. Ozzy has a mischievous knack for eating any human food that is left unattended, even momentarily. She once ate a full dinner of fish tacos, and a wrapped bagel egg and cheese sandwich. On a recent walk, she found an entire slice of pizza someone had thrown into a thick hedge.
This past summer, Ozzy went to Maine with her family and another family from Edgemont. The two families were the only people on a 4-acre island. Ozzy was in dog heaven. She ran free all over the island, bird watched, and swam in the ocean. Upon returning to Scarsdale, Ozzy was disappointed to learn that she would have to resume walks on a leash without easy access to the ocean.
Sorry Ozzy, but you'll have to wait for Rye beach to open, because your family is staying in the ‘Dale!
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