CNBNEWS.NET/Gloucester City

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Emotions in Dogs

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

  
I am often told about dogs that are “jealous”, “ashamed”, “guilty” or “spiteful”. These descriptive terms come under the example of anthropomorphisms.

 

   The simple explanation of anthropomorphism is the false idea that animals can manifest human emotions when in fact, they do not possess that capability.

 

   A scenario in which Fido appears “jealous” would be when he seeks his owner’s attention while the owner is playing with another dog. This is a case of survival and hierarchy—Fido does not wish to lose his position of favor with his owner and therefore, seeks his owner’s approval.

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': My Fantasy Life

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

 

  GLOUCESTER CITY NJ (November 5,2018)(CNBNewsnet)--  Anyone that knows me can gauge what I’m watching on television by the way I look and act—I follow the lead of the season premieres of my favorite shows.

 

   As an avid fan of Survivor, you’re likely to find me buying coconuts at the ShopRite dressed in a sarong or a blouse that hides a bathing suit top. Family sitcoms have me dressed casually and being sarcastic but when viewing Dancing with the Stars you’re liable to see me walking my dogs with sparkles on my face and a pair of mid-heeled pumps.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: The Very Young Puppy

Dawn Watson/Cnbnewsnet

 

   I have often witnessed puppies that, due to unfortunate circumstances, are abandoned immediately or shortly after birth.These puppies need special care if they are to survive.

Not only do very young puppies need to be fed every two or three hours but they also need to understand social cues and proper behavior. From the moment of birth, a puppy's mother teaches her baby how to get along with litter-mates, how to be assertive, and the importance of hierarchy. A dog that is removed from the litter may suffer life-long emotional and social damage. He may be unable to read other dogs' cues and will be attacked or be unwelcome in a group of dogs, resulting in him responding with aggression in social situations.

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Forever

Dawn Watson | Cnbnewsnet

 I’ve come to the realization that everything is temporary. Discounting anything spiritual, there isn’t anything that lasts forever. Sure, long-term marriages lasting fifty-plus years show longevity and loyalty but forever? I think not.

 

 I once purchased a battery-operated candle that poetically promised everlasting light—it conked out after four days of continuous glow. Ninety-some hours is hardly forever.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Guarding Behavior

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

  

GLOUCESTER CITY NJ (October 27, 2018)(CNBNewsnet)--A friend of mine was walking her dog the other day and suddenly, her dog began barking and lunging at a stranger who was coming from the other direction. They were new to the area and previously, the dog had not shown any such tendencies. My friend was puzzled at her usually-calm dog’s behavior so I explained my opinion on the topic.

  

Molly (the dog) lived in a suburban setting with few neighbors before moving to the city. She was accustomed to the relative quiet of her former neighborhood. Due to a sad family situation she moved miles away with one of her owners (the other owner passed away, suddenly).

  

 

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Living the Dream

 Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet
 

 

  

GLOUCESTER CITY NJ(October 22,2018)(CNBNewsnet)--When I was a child I dreamed of becoming someone special. The criteria for success changed weekly depending on the resources surrounding me. 

 

For example I often dreamed of becoming a figure skater but even at a young age I didn’t have the figure for it. I thought of teaching but did not possess the confidence or temperament. Besides, I was afraid I’d favor the dorky kids and start punishing the bullies.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Service Dogs

by Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

  

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (October 20,2018)(CNBNewsnet)--Recently, media sources have criticized the validity of some pets labeled “service animals”.

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Lies I Told

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

 

   When my kids were little I lied to them frequently, until The Teen Years when they no longer cared to address me. That period ended early in the year 2000, thankfully.

 

   Here are ten lies I told them and the reasons behind those lies:

 

 

1.    The truck that plays music in summer takes children away and they never return. (I couldn’t afford to buy them ice cream so I got them to hide when they heard Mr. Softee.)

2.    The car’s engine won’t start unless you have your seatbelt on. (Seatbelt Reluctance Disorder.)

3.    The shot is not going to hurt. (I hated that lie.)

4.    If you ever say that again I will beat you until I need a nap. (Never happened, but it made them think.)

5.    The angels made you and dropped you on a giant pillow in our yard. (When asked, “How are babies made?”)

6.    The festival is only for bad kids so you can’t go. (I had no money.)

7.    Eat your carrots and I’ll tell the Tooth Fairy to leave you a dollar the next time you loose a tooth. (Promise made after all baby teeth were long gone.)

8.    My spit is magical so hold still while I fix your hair. (Said to child squirming when I spit on my hand to control a cowlick.)

9.    Grandpa went on vacation. (Grandpa died.)

10.  If you drink coffee you will shrink. (I caught them sipping from my cup.)

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: The Tiny Biter

by Dawn Watson |CNBNewsnet

  

Little dogs often have large personalities.

  

Puppies will instinctively snarl and growl. If the dog is a small breed we tend to laugh and cuddle him which shows him that he has done something good. The behavior escalates with age until finally, your little adult dog nips at anything or anyone that moves.

  

Dogs thrive under benevolent leadership no matter what their age. Under normal circumstances they can read facial expressions and body language. Give your dog the structure he needs by telling him, “No!” when he behaves inappropriately and a “Good…” (the good behavior, like sit, stay, down, etc.)

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Queen of the Road

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

   Well, it’s finally happened: I’ve lost my mind.

 

   I’ve decided to sell my house and most of my belongings, buy a van, take my dogs and hit the road.

 

   Gloucester City will always be my home; when my driving years are over I hope to return and seek shelter at the building facing the water, made specifically for folks of a certain age. Either that or take a walk in the woods so that my decrepit body can feed the woodland creatures. (I’ve been feeding animals my entire life; might as well feed them when I’m finished breathing).

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Why Rescues Charge So Much

 

 

((CNBNewsnet)(GLOUCESTER CITY NJ)(October 6,2018)--I’ve often heard or read people complaining about the “outrageous” costs of adopting a dog through a rescue organization. I’m sure these folks don’t have a full understanding of the rescue process.

 

   A rescue group is not a “sticks and bricks” building manned by people paid a salary—it is a group of people that offer their homes and lives to dogs that have been abandoned, abused, or otherwise left to fend for themselves. They pay the veterinary bills, training, food, toys, and comfort of the dogs they care for, surviving on donations to get the job done. Often, the bills run into thousands of dollars and man-hours.

 

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin’: People Watching

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

   I was at a park today and I was able to participate in one of my favorite pass-times: people-watching.

 

  ‘People-watching’ is an art form and one must be careful to avoid eye contact lest it be labeled ‘staring’. Learning the proper form can save you from a scolding or a punch in the nose and every attempt must be made to avoid confrontation. Rules include no staring, no laughing, no pointing, and most importantly, no nudging the person beside you and combining the aforementioned.

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Mean Kids

   CNBNewsnet

 

   Where have all the mean kids gone? You know the ones; they all sat together in the cafeteria and bullied you in the hallways.

 

They whispered about you at school events and tortured you in the bathrooms and on the bus.

  

You were a nerd, you were a dork, you were too fat or too thin, wore glasses or weren’t fashionable.

 

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Why Do Rescues Charge so Much? (cnbnewsnet)

CNBNewsnet

 

 

    I’ve often heard from people complaining about the “outrageous” costs of adopting a dog through a rescue organization. I’m sure these folks don’t have a full understanding of the rescue process.

   A rescue group is not a “sticks and bricks” building manned by people paid a salary—it is a group of people that offer their homes and lives to dogs that have been abandoned, abused, or otherwise left to fend for themselves. The organization pays the veterinary bills, medicine, training, food, toys, and comfort of the dogs they care for, surviving on donations to get the job done. Often, the bills run into thousands of dollars and man-hours.

    A breed-specific rescue group will see a posting on Pet Finder or get a call from a shelter letting them know there is a dog that can be “pulled” (removed from the shelter by a group willing to foster him/her). Sometimes, there is a fee for this acquisition, other times the shelter will allow the dog to be rescued at no cost.

   The adoption screening process is rigorous because the dogs in the rescue group’s care have been treated as a family member by their foster parents, sometimes for months. The financial and emotional expense is huge, but most organizations only charge a small percentage of their investments. They only want the best homes for those they have watched blossom and grow.

   I hope you will share this article whenever you hear someone complain about the screening and adoption fee of a rescued dog; a dog’s life may depend on it.

  

If you have questions about this or any other dog-related question please call or text me at 856.981.8957 or email brotherofthewolftraining@comcast.net.

Graphics by Adobe Spark 

 

Wado udohiyu, (thank you very much in the Cherokee language)

Dawn Watson

Owner, Brother of the Wolf, LLC

Behavior and Service Dog Training in Gloucester City, NJ

 

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Generations

 

 

CNBNewsnet

 

     
 I’m old. Let me tell you how I know this to be true.

 

   The sound of most millennial pop-stars makes my eardrums hurt.

   The words to rap music embarrass me.

   I refer to anyone under forty as a “kid”.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Wednesday is ????(CNBNewsnet)

CNBNewsnet

Let’s talk about a delicate subject. I must often correct clients when they talk about their dogs clinging to them or other objects and making a movement that can be somewhat embarrassing. This movement has nothing to do with the urge to procreate.

   Dogs are sensitive about the ranking in their pack. When they are attempting to dominate a member of the pack they will sometimes attempt a mounting movement. If there is no other dog or person around they may substitute an inanimate object.

   Males as well as females show this instinctual fight for hierarchy. Although people joke about the reasons, it is simply another instance of the struggle for survival—if an animal feels his rank is in jeopardy he or she will resort to any means to ensure that his place in the pack remains unchallenged.

If you have questions about this or any other dog-related question please call or text me at 856.981.8957 or email brotherofthewolftraining@comcast.net.

 

Wado udohiyu, (thank you very much in the Cherokee language)

Dawn Watson

Owner, Brother of the Wolf, LLC

Behavior and Service Dog Training in Gloucester City, NJ

 Graphic from Adobe Spark

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Finding Joy

   

 

 

 

  

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (September 10, 2018)(CNBNewsnet)I get depressed. Everyone does, to a certain extent but mine comes and goes like a runaway bus.

 

   When a dark cloud arrives it hovers over me, sucking up joy until nothing is left but feelings of uselessness and despair. Ten minutes later, I’m baking a cake, humming a tune, or dancing with my dogs.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: The Perils of Fall

 

 

   GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (September 8, 2018)(CNBNewsnet)--Fall is almost here and with it, some new challenges for Fido.

   Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes love to hide in piles of leaves just waiting for you and your dog to plow through and give them a free ride and a free meal. In addition, leaf spores can cause serious allergic reactions to occur.

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Lost and Found

 

CNBNewsnet

 

   When I was young I lost some weight. I found it when I turned fifty. Since then, it’s been on and off more times than Comcast cable.

 

   I lost all memory of the summer of ’69. If my kids find evidence, the rules I made for them when they were teens will come under great scrutiny.

 

   I found the bucket list I made when I was twenty-five. I’ve yet to do numbers eight through ten because I lost my mojo when I turned sixty. And no, I’m not telling anyone what those numbers represented.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Fostering (CNBNewsnet)

(Cnbnewsnet)

 

  I am often asked why I foster dogs. Although I'm no longer an active foster mom for the many rescues to which I belong, I still take the occasional hospice case.

   Hospice dog are usually elderly, fragile souls that have been abandoned by their owners or have spent many years in shelters. They are sad, sick, and confused. I give them a place to rest their weary heads and am present when they pass away. I carry them in a specially made, soft carrier so they are constantly by my side.

   Someone has to be there at the end. Someone has to try and make up for their abandonment, to show them that they are loved.

   Rescue organizations can be size or breed-specific. They have strict rules and have spent a great deal of time and money on the dogs they rescue, sometimes from terrible situations. They want only the best for these second-chance dogs.   

   If you are interested in fostering a dog for a rescue or shelter, call me. I can point you in the proper direction.

Pictured: The author with Molly and Millie, two hospice dogs loved until the very end.

Wado udohiyu, (thank you very much in the Cherokee language)   

Dawn Watson

Owner, Brother of the Wolf, LLC

856.981.8957

   

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': All About Perception

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

    I’m the world’s clumsiest woman.

 

 

 
  Just Sayin graphics file

I trip over my own feet, stumble on every sidewalk, and narrowly miss being flattened by cars, all because I can’t measure distance.

   There’s a dance that’s done as two people approach one another; you’d expect them to give one another enough room to avoid a collision, right? Not me. I end up in awkwardly intimate embraces with strangers whenever I go for a walk.

   Last year I broke my foot while hopping over a mesh barrier. I should have remembered that incident before my recent attempt to climb over a three-foot brick wall. I ended up inventing a new Yoga position—Downward Dangling Dog—when my jeans caught on a nail.

Gloucester City--Creating an Image

by CNBNewsnet Staff

   What pictures are conjured up when someone says the phrase, “Gloucester City”?

   Over the last few years Gloucester City has been defined as a city of hope and change.

More people are sharing their talents here, understanding that there is a growing interest in creative arts. For example, the annual Arts and Music Festival is expected to draw a crowd of thousands when local artists, jewelry makers, crafters, and innovative food vendors set up in Proprietor’s Park on September 29.

 

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Summer

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

   GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (August 20, 2018)--Of all the seasons of the year I dislike summer the most. It wasn’t always so—in my youth I lay on a blanket, tanning my lithe body smeared with baby oil, moving not a muscle unless it was to flip face-down and inhale the ants that were attracted to the lotion.
I wore sundresses, flaunting my almond-colored shoulders and legs, knowing I was the envy of my pale-skinned friends.

   Fast-forward 40 years or so.
   My arms are laden with Solar Lentigines (age spots caused by the sun) and my face looks like a roadmap of bad habits. I’m fat, crabby and self-conscious.
   Since I am no longer lithe I perspire with the slightest exertion; anything above 76 degrees and I’m sitting in front of an air conditioner or on a bench at the mall, where climate control is second only to marketing ploys.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Which Breed Suits You?

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

  

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (August 18, 2018)--If you are considering adopting or purchasing a dog it’s best if you decide which breed or mix will fit into your lifestyle.

 

   For example, if you live in a small apartment a large, active dog is not for you. A smaller breed will be able to stretch his legs and thrive in your scaled-back home. If you are insistent on adopting a larger breed, consider looking for one that is less active, such as a Bernese Mountain Dog or a mix.

 

   If you have an active lifestyle with plenty of room, an American Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, or Golden Retriever (or anything mixed with these breeds) will give you years of enjoyment. They are loving, energetic, and almost always good with children.

 

   Chihuahuas need gentle training and are not recommended for a home that includes young children due to their nervous demeanor. They have been known to snap when they feel threatened. Chi’s mixed with other breeds are generally more accepting of children.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Animal Hoarding

 

 

  GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (CNBNewsnet)(August 11,2018)-- An internet source has defined the term animal hoarder as an individual who possesses more than the typical number of companion animals. The individual is unable to provide even minimal standards of nutrition, sanitation, shelter, and veterinary care, with this neglect often resulting in starvation, illness, and death.

 

   People do not purposely accumulate multiple animals. In most cases they begin by adopting two unneutered or non-spayed dogs or cats. The animals breed and the owner can’t part with the litter and the number of animals grows until it’s out of control.

 

Gloucester City Author Offers Sixth of Series

 

by CNBNewsnet Staff

  
GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (August 10, 2018)--Gloucester City resident Dawn O. Watson began writing about the mythical town of "Pi, NJ" while caring for her mother in her home.

   "I needed something to do while keeping my mother company. She wanted me to sit with her all day while she watched television," Mrs. Watson said. "I got a set of headphones to block the sound and set up my laptop in whatever room she occupied. And then, I wrote."

   The series became more popular when Gloucester City artist Amy D'apice, began designing the covers for the books. 

   "The new book is called, 'The Piper of Pi' and centers on one of the more colorful, recurring characters, James Dupree. Amy captured him beautifully, standing on the pier playing his bagpipes," Mrs. Watson continued. 

   "Locals will easily identify streets, landmarks, and some of the characters in town. It's such a fun series to write," she said. 

   In addition to the Pi series, there is a book about caring for her mother, a dog training book, and a post-apocalyptic book called Ezekiel: 38. Its sequel, Ezra: 7 will be available in late October. 

The books are available on goodreads.com, Amazon.com, at your local library (currently available at the Gloucester City Public Library), or ordered at any bookstore. Also available in eBook form.

Pictured: The cover of The Piper of Pi. Art by Amy Williams D'apice

Gloucester City's Tenth Arts and Music Fest: Fun for Everyone!

CNBNews Staff

 

    GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (August 6, 2018)-- Gloucester City’s Cultural Arts and Heritage Society is gearing up for their tenth riverfront art, crafts, and music festival to be held at Proprietor’s Park on September 29, 2018 from eleven until 6 PM, with bands performing until ten PM.

 

   “There is something for everyone in Gloucester City and this event will embrace that philosophy,” said Mary Lou Adams, founder of the society.

 

   Bands coordinator Michael Newsham’s line-up includes No Evil and Chinacat Jubilee in addition to a dozen other performers.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week:The Dog That Doesn't Fit (cnbnewsnet

 

CNBNewsnet

 

   Sometimes a family’s intentions are good—they rescue a dog from a shelter or organization, bring him home, work with him, get training help for him, and do all the things necessary to assimilate him into the household. But, after weeks of faithfully following all suggested protocols the dog simply does not fit in with the family’s expectations.

   Dogs are sensitive—they understand when something is “off” and will sometimes withdraw if they sense their position in the pack is in jeopardy. If the pack has decided, after a lengthy period of committed attention, that Fido needs to be returned, please consider this: each year, 670,000 dogs are euthanized. According to the ASPCA’s National Rehoming Survey, pet problems are the most common reason that owners rehome their pets.

   Fifty-six percent of dogs that enter a shelter are euthanized. Dogs that are returned because of behavior problems will likely not be re-adopted and will ultimately be euthanized.

   If your family still believes that Fido cannot be assimilated into your family, please consider the statistics before returning him.

   If you are considering returning your dog, please call me at 856.981.8957. Let me help you.

 

Wado udohiyu (thank you very much in the Cherokee language)

Dawn Watson

Owner, Brother of the Wolf, LLC

Located in the heart of Gloucester City, NJ

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': The Mood Wrecker

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

  GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ—  Everybody knows one: that friend or relative that can bring a mood down faster than you can say, “Debbie Downer”.

   I’m not talking about the person suffering from depression or a temporary mental conflict. I’m talking about an individual that sees danger at every corner, death with every sneeze; one who makes a road trip to Atlantic City sound like bad news from your oncologist.

   My mother, bless her heart was one such person. “I’m going to the store,” would be answered with a nervous look at the clock and the shake of the head. “What?” I would ask. “Traffic,” she’d reply. “Better wait a bit. You never know…”

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week:The Attention-Seeking Dog

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

   
GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (July 28, 2018)--   Most pet dogs enjoy playtime with their human pack. However, it sometimes seems as though Fido is constantly demanding your attention in one form or another. For example, you have just returned home from work and petted and/or treated your dog and possibly taken him for a walk. Now, you’d like to relax in front of the TV or read the newspaper before starting supper. But Fido has other ideas.

 

   He presses a ball into your hand and you throw it before resuming your moment of relaxation. He comes back to play. You ignore him and he whines and stares at you. When that doesn’t work he barks or does whatever he can to get your attention.

 

 

Gloucester City Arts Festival Needs YOU!

Cnbnewsnet Staff

   GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (July 28, 2018)--On Saturday, September 29, prepare to be involved, entertained, and amazed at the 10th Annual Riverfront Arts and Music Festival at Proprietor's Park, King Street and Jersey Avenue at the Delaware River. 

   This volunteer event offers the opportunity for artistic craftsmen and culinary adventurers to sell their wares to the crowds that have attended the event in past years. But this event cannot happen without YOU!

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': THAT's A LOT OF CABBAGE

 

Dawn Watson/CNBNewsnet

  

(GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ)(July 23, 2018)--I grew up poor. Not homeless poor, but the kind of poor where I had to start working when I was fourteen to contribute to the household. It’s just how it was.

   My mother had to look for bargains everywhere, including the grocery store. We clipped coupons until our fingers were calloused, looked for sales and substituted cheaper ingredients than what recipes called for. I was eighteen before I realized you were expected to add hamburger to Hamburger Helper in order to complete the dish.

   I packed my lunch bag with cheese ends and bologna ends between slices of expired bread and took a knife with me to cut the worms out of my over-ripe apple. For supper we had unlabeled cans of food and ate whatever was in them; they were cheaper because shoppers had to guess their contents, which was fun for us, imagining what was in them.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Adapting Your Vegetarian Lifestyle

Dawn Watson/CNBNewsnet

 

   GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (July 21, 2018)--I once had a client with an “aggressive” St Bernard.

 

Aggression is defined as the intent to do harm and dogs that are given this label are definite liabilities, both safety-wise and in the legal sense.

 

   I was somewhat hesitant to take this particular case because a huge, aggressive dog can be pretty scary. At the time of the session I was neither young nor insured but I drove to the client’s home to see how I could help.

 

 

 CNBNews graphics file

Gloucester City Artist Wins Again

CNBNews Staff

   

(CNBNewsnet)(GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ) (July 20, 2018)--Mary Lou Adams, the founder of the Gloucester City Cultural Arts and Heritage Society, (photo above) recently won second prize in the professional category, the acrylics division, at the Camden County College juried art show.

 

   Mrs. Adams, a long-time Gloucester City resident, has won many awards during her lifetime. Her acrylic on canvas entitled “Freedom Pier” was also presented for exhibit at the Perkins Center for the Arts in Moorestown. Additionally, her photography work has won acclaim at Crofts Farms in Cherry Hill. Her award-winning work has been shown at many other galleries, including the Hopkins House Gallery in Haddon Township.

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': The Senior Scene

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

  CNBNewsnet(July 16, 2018)--Dating happens.

   When a woman of retirement age decides she’d like to have a companion, the requirements may differ from that of a younger person.
  

A robust, sixty-something woman will probably look for a healthy man without debilitating conditions that would prevent an enjoyable date. For example if he can’t see or hear and you love going to the movies…well, it might be best to either forego the man or the movie.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Chasing Cars

 

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

  GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (July 14, 2018)(CNBNewsnet)--  When a dog chases a car he is rewarded; it’s a classic case of positive reinforcement because he runs after it and it goes away. In his mind, it’s possible that he believes he is the cause of the car’s departure.

  

Fence-fighting is based on the same premise—the dog barks at the fence at a person or another dog outside the fence, the person or dog eventually goes away and the dog may believe that he is the cause of the departure.

 

   I say “may” or “it’s possible” because science has not yet found a definitive way to monitor a canine’s thought process. Until we learn how a dog processes information, we can’t be certain about his associations.

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': The Conversation Hijacker

Dawn Watson/CNBNewsnet

 

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (July 9, 2018)(cnbnewsnet)--  Have you ever started a conversation only to be hijacked by the individuals to whom you are speaking? For example:

Me: I’m a dog trainer.

First Person: I have a dog!

Second Person: What kind?

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Loving Your Dog

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

   Unless you are a dog lover, you will never understand how much love one can have for his or her dog.

Your feelings are very similar to the love a mother or father has for his or her child. You share all your secrets with your dog and he never judges you. He loves you unconditionally and without reserve.

   Then, along comes a respected ‘friend’ that tells you your feelings are not valid. They are ‘sick’, and you should be treating your dog like the animal he is. He should be placed in a cage at night, so he ‘knows his place’; he should be disciplined physically so that he is obedient and always compliant to your whims.

RiverPark Pub Promotes Local Talent, Organizations

RPP: The Place to Be!

by CNBNewsnet Staff

 

(CNBNewsnet)GLOUCESTER CITY NJ (July 2, 2018)--  RiverPark Pub, located at 200 Jersey Avenue in Gloucester City has been giving back to the community since it was established in early 2017. Local bands dominate the evening scene while church organizations and creative groups enjoy the venue after the dinner crowd has made its way over to the bar for a nightcap.

Hosted by Michael Soll, RiverPark also encourages activist groups such as the Gloucester City Town Watch to schedule their meetings in the cozy upstairs banquet room.

Set some time aside on Tuesday, July 10 and enjoy their dinner special 2 FOR TUESDAY (2 entrees, soup or salad, and desserts for $20), and meet local author Dawn O Watson who will be there to sign and sell her novels at a discounted cost of $8.00! 
Novels include:

 

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Any Port in a Storm

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

 

   I live on the street.

   Not literally, but the only thing that separates my house from the sidewalk is about a foot of aluminum siding and some paneling. And two windows that allow me to not only hear every word that’s spoken outside, but to view it as well.

   Believe me when I tell you, it’s not always pretty. Especially when it’s raining and folks gather under my awnings to keep dry. Sometimes, they turn around and look in at me. When that happens, I feel compelled to eat a banana and give them a show worth remembering.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Enrichment Tools

Dawn Watson | CNBNewsnet

  

GLOUCESTER CITY NJ (June 30, 2018)(CNBNewsnet)--As part of your family, your dog deserves the best possible life. This includes tools that enrich, challenge, and entertain her. These tools need not be costly; many stimulating toys and games can be fashioned from household items.

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Parenting Adult Children

Dawn Watson/CNBNewsnet

 
I wasn’t ready for my children to enter adulthood. They disobeyed me by growing up, leaving home, and having lives that did not include asking for my permission to get jobs or even cross the street by themselves.

   Whenever we get together I encourage them to stay overnight so they’ll be rested and fed before making the arduous journey home, four blocks away.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Shaving as a Part of Grooming

 

Dawn Watson/CNBNewsnet

 

   Many dog owners have their dogs shaved for the summer but dogs need that outer coat to keep cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

 

   Most dogs have three kinds of fur: undercoat, guard hair, and whiskers. Some have both an outer primary coat and an inner undercoat, called a double coat

 

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Lettuce Entertain You

Dawn O Watson/CNBNewsnet

  

I’ve been counting calories. I’d tell you I’m having a mid-life crisis but that would mean I’m shooting for a hundred thirty-four years old.

   Since being unable to get last year’s summer slacks up past my knees, I decided to do more planning and less chewing. I bought a bunch of salad greens, determined to stem my bear-like hunger with rabbit-like ingredients for a seven day diet plan.

   On day one I discovered I could cut out carbs by substituting lettuce for bread. Although it makes for a messy peanut butter and jelly sandwich it’s pretty good wrapped around egg salad. And who doesn’t like a good slice of pizza with a lettuce crust? Top it with carrot slices in lieu of pepperoni and you’ve got a delicious bite of low calorie goodness. Sort of.

   On day two I made chicken with stuffing. The stuffing consisted of cut up celery, carrots, onions, and cabbage, steamed and eaten as a side dish. It filled me up for a couple of hours but at around ten PM, I found myself downstairs with my head in the fridge searching for a snack to make my stomach stop growling. All I found was lettuce so I ate it. All of it. I’m talkin’ about a head as big as a bowling ball. It must have released a weird chemical into my system though, because it made me shout at the Mister Softee truck.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Adopting an Older Dog

 

Dawn Watson } CNBNewsnet

 

 

      If you are considering adopting an older dog here are some things to consider:

 

   An older dog has likely been abandoned. He is frightened.

 

   He will probably require medical and dental care. A shelter will probably take care of that. Remember that fact when paying the adoption fee!

 

   He or she will may be very shy or aloof at first. Abandonment at an advanced age will likely cause him some temporary attachment issues.

 

   He will need some quiet time to become accustomed to your home. Allow him time to adjust without making demands on him.

 

   She may require more rest than a younger dog. Several comfy pillows or dog beds will let her know it is all right to rest.

 

  She is probably housebroken but encourage outdoor ‘going’ by accompanying her if she indicates it is potty time. Older dogs may need more frequent trips outside.

 

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Benevolent Savings and Loan

Dawn Watson/CNBNewsnet

   I bought a blouse at Walmart about a week ago. It cost over a hundred bucks.
   Oh, that’s not what the tag said—the tag advertised it at four dollars. But, by the time I got done paying for it, well, here’s what happened:

   I paid for my purchase with my debit card. Since no bells rang or whistles blew, I figured there was enough in the account to cover the cost.

A few days later I received an ominous letter in the mail. You know the kind, it’s easily identifiable, even before opening, by the little cloud of doom that hovers over your mailbox.

   Benevolent Savings and Loan. (Insert sound of thunder).

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Training a Deaf Dog

Dawn Watson/CNBNewsnet

  

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (June 9, 2018)--Many dogs are either born with, or acquire, hearing-related impairments. Their guardians need to master silent training commands in order to give them the quality of life they deserve.

   The first order of business is to have your dog look at you. You can achieve this fete by touching him gently on the head and, when he looks into your face, smile and reward him with a treat. Repeat this action, gradually reducing the number of times you reward him with food. Always show him with your facial expression that you are pleased with his response.

Local Author Expands Genre, Pens Post-Apocalyptic Novel About Seniors

 

   GLOUCESTER CITY NJ (June 8, 2018)(CNBNewsnet)--Local author Dawn O Watson’s newest novel, “Ezekiel: 38” switches gears from her series about a small town (the Pi series) and tells of the destruction of young people and those of high intellect, with a gas known as N65.

   The story is told from the perspective of a 67 year old widow residing in Philadelphia. When the gas destroys everything in its path with the exception of senior citizens and those with fewer neurons, she attempts to make a new life. Barbara Hanson finds other survivors, but some have turned to destructive means to cope with the new normal.

   This is Watson’s eighth novel.

   In the Pi series, readers are quick to recognize the little town of Pi as Gloucester City, NJ. Popular because of local landmarks, the series currently offers five novels, with the sixth, “The Piper of Pi”, due out in late June.

Dawn Watson's Just Sayin': Check This Out

Dawn O Watson/CNBNewsnet

      My shopping week starts when I receive the flyer from the ShopRite. I generally cast it aside until I can organize my bills by shut-off date, then relax with a cup of coffee to peruse the ads. I write down the sale items and clip any coupons that might be contained in the enticing marketing ploys, then create a shopping list.

   My next step is to match my list with the inserts from the newspaper, putting an asterisk beside each item that has a corresponding coupon, then organizing all of them by location in the store. I place all the neatly trimmed coupons in an envelope and I’m ready to shop!

   If I remember to put the envelope into my purse, it’s a good day.

Dawn Watson's Pet Tip of the Week: Kids & Dogs

Dawn Watson/CNBnewsnet

 I see many articles & videos in which children are ‘playing’ with their dogs. The children are pulling on the pets’ ears, jumping on them, tempting them with food and then taking it from them. These media entries don’t show what happens when the dog has had enough of this bad behavior, but a dog that attacks a child will always suffer dire consequences.
   A dog with a bite history, especially where a child is concerned, is a dead dog. A shelter will euthanize him, no matter the circumstances surrounding the bite.
   Children younger than six years of age should never be left alone with dogs; parental supervision is required at all times. They should be taught at a very young age that a dog is not a toy; he has feelings and needs and is not to be teased or abused.