KONG NEWS - 2008
Welcome to the 12th issue of the KONG Community Newsletter. Our growing, international community now includes over 80,000 active members. New for this issue, we added a new KONG Cat section and Cat Photo Contest.

Update
Due to the overwhelmingly positive response to our new KONG Kids section and KONG Kids contests, we added additional content. Check out the new KONG Kids Dog Care Tips segment and last issues contest winners.

New Community Newsletter section for KONG Cats
With the successful launch of the new KONG Cat products, we have added a new KONG Cat section dedicated to all our cat loving members. Scroll down to the KONG Cat section to read more.

New KONG Cats Photo Contest
In addition, please look for our new KONG Cat Photo Contest. Now your cool cat can enter to win one of three valuable KONG Cat Toy baskets per quarter. See KONG Cat section in this issue for details.


KONG Attends International Police Working Dog Seminar
The KONG Company was again honored with an invitation to participate and speak at the 3rd Annual International Police Working Dog Association Event. The IPWDA was held in Providence, RI and featured Explosives Detection dog training and related seminars. Distinguished local, state and federal agencies including the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms), TSA (Transportation Security Administration) and CIA (Central Intelligence Agency) were in attendance. The IPWDA is a growing organization with members in Australia, Bermuda, Canada, Germany, Holland, Ireland, Philippines and the UK, to name a few. The KONG Company was the only non-law enforcement company or agency asked to participate.

Mark Hines, the KONG Company's Behavior and Training Specialist, was asked to discuss the role of toys and positive reinforcement techniques utilized in K-9 detection training and work. At the event Mark enjoyed several days of working with experienced IPWDA trainers and master trainers and observing the K-9 teams in action.

When asked about his overall impression of this year’s seminar, Mark said, “I have participated in dozens of police and military K-9 training events internationally. The IPWDA continues to be one of the most organized and professional police organizations I’ve been honored to work with.”

The overall goal of the IPWDA is to improve and standardize the training methods and certification of K-9 teams. Through various training venues and encouraging an exchange of ideas and methods in K9 training, the IPWDA hopes to accomplish this goal.


GUEST ARTICLE
KONG Toys Aid in Training Scent Detection Dogs
By Dan Reiter

Olfaction, the act or process of smelling, is a dog’s primary special sense. Did you know that a dog has over 220 million scent receptors in their olfactory system, while human beings have only 5 million? Over the years, humans found many useful ways to harness the canine’s extraordinary sense of smell. In more recent history, their remarkable sniffing ability has been used as a powerful detection tool. From sniffing out drugs and explosives to tracking a missing person or suspected criminal, there are few “target scents” a trained detection dog cannot locate.

A wide variety of dog professionals, including those who work with police K-9 units, the US Military and search and rescue teams are utilizing a unique training tool. The K-9 Behavior Shaping Device (BSD) is designed to train dogs to detect specific target scents. The K-9 BSD has rapidly become the preferred method for Passive Alert (Sit & Point) Detection training. Put simply, the K9 BSD is a training tool remotely activated to eject a variety of rewards (KONG toys) from within a hidden location once the working dog locates the desired “target scent”. This allows the use of positive reinforcement in a variety of different training scenarios with split second presentation of the reward. The immediate reward of correct responses is a crucial element in the detection training process.

Here is how it works: Samples of explosives or other target scents are hidden inside the K-9 BSD unit along with a KONG toy. The dog is released with specific verbal commands to find the indicated target scent. In the process of hunting down the target scent, the dogs learn to discern the different odors of various target materials. Upon finding the target, they are taught to sit and stare at the source of the odor (Sit & Point Detection). At that exact moment, when correct detection has occurred, the trainer activates a handheld remote control device to eject the KONG toy reward from the hidden location.

KONG toys are the toy of choice to reward working dogs during detection training. All K-9 BSD odor detection devices are preset to eject a large KONG a short distance of 12-16 inches (this keeps the dog close to the odor source). KONG toys work well in the K-9 BSD for numerous reasons: The size is perfect for working with larger breeds, the shape prevents it from rolling too far from the unit and the KONG natural rubber compound is durable enough to withstand powerful jaws. Trainers also appreciate the ability to randomly vary between the red, blue and black KONG toys during training. This keeps the target odor the only thing consistent with reinforcement.

Long recognized as an ideal training aid for any dog, KONG toys are often used to train police dogs and other working animals. The rugged, hardwearing natural rubber toys are so appealing that they give hardworking dogs the perfect reward for a job well done, with or without a tasty treat tucked inside.

Dan Reiter is the creator of the K9 Behavior Shaping Device. He is a frequent guest speaker and respected trainer. For more information about the K9 BSD, take time to explore the website at www.k-9bsd.com

KONG COMMUNITY LETTERS
This month the KONG Company would like to share two wonderful letters. One was sent to us by a grateful member of the KONG community and the second was sent by a caring non-profit organization. It is great to be part of a community and product line that truly makes a positive difference in the lives of companion animals and their owners.

KONG Community Letter:

Hello KONG Company,
Thought you all would like to hear about another satisfied KONG-loving family. I have 3 dogs ranging in age from 10 months thru 14 years and they all have KONG toys!

My youngest is a 10-month-old Standard Poodle named Dunkin. He just adores his red, Classic KONG toy and is always begging me to fill it up with goodies.

My middle dog is a 4-year-old Lab/Pointer/Pit mix with jaws of steel named Freckles. She can destroy almost any toy within minutes, including the red Classic KONG toy. So for her I have the black, Extreme KONG toy and I'm happy to say it is still in one piece.

My third dog is a 14-year-old Black Lab named Dodi. Dodi is very timid and gentle when it comes to chew toys and has tried to play with the other dogs' red Classic and black Extreme KONG toys, but they're too hard for her. Recently, I saw the Senior KONG at the pet store and got one for her. I filled it with PB, kibble and bread and she was in 7th heaven.

I love the fact that I can provide great, durable dog toys designed especially for my dog’s individual needs. In fact, as I sit here typing this letter, they are all chewing on their KONG toys!! So yes we are a multi-generational KONG-loving family.

Thank you,
Trish Klucharits 

Trish Klucharits and her dogs Dunkin, Freckles and Dodi are this issue’s “KONG Letter Contest” winners and will receive a KONG Gift Basket. Your letters of success, like the one above are always welcome and appreciated. If you would like to share your KONG experiences or any KONG news with the KONG community, just email us at: kong@kongcompany.com. If your letter is chosen for the next KONG Community Newsletter, you will receive a KONG Gift Basket valued at $120.00.

Non-Profit Organization Letter:

Dear KONG Company,
WOW!  We have found a way to keep our bully breed dogs busy for hours and reduce kennel stress! We are currently the first shelter in our area to implement the "open paw program". This program is geared toward animal enrichment activities and reduction of kennel and cattery stress among our animals. Currently, we are using target sticks, clicker training and interactive toys like Classic KONGs to stimulate them and keep them busy throughout the day!
 
It is amazing to see them un-stuff a KONG toy for the first time. After they are finished they will bring it to the front of their gate to be refilled.
 
We have started using Classic KONG toys for all of our feedings and using multiple KONG toys stuffed with snacks in between meal times for dogs with higher energy levels. KONG toys have allowed us to house many breeds which we have had problems with in the past due to high energy and stress levels. KONG toys are the perfect solution for any dog with boredom. We have even started to freeze treat–stuffed KONG toys for the dogs who have mastered un-stuffing the toys.

We are even using the small one for the cats.  If the cats are bored and jumping around their cages a treat-stuffed KONG toy will reduce stress levels and keep them busy for hours.

Thanks KONG,
You're truly helping a lot of animals adjust to shelter life in a whole new way and giving them a better chance of being adopted.

Brandi Beaver
Animal Care Supervisor
The Humane Society of Baltimore County
www.olddoghaven.org

Thanks to Brandi, the Humane Society of Baltimore County will receive a special KONG Gift Basket. Letters of success from non-profit organizations, like the one above are always welcome and appreciated. If you would like to share your KONG experiences or any KONG news with the KONG community, just email us at: kong@kongcompany.com. If your letter is chosen for the next KONG Community Newsletter, you will receive a special KONG Gift Basket.

NEW KONG PRODUCTS
The KONG Company is proud to be the recognized leader in quality pet products. All of our new products are tested under veterinarian supervision by happy family pets. Here are the latest additions to our ever-expanding product line.

KONG Dog Products:
Mega Wubba
Are you looking for the perfect dog toy for your large dog? The Mega Wubba is huge…over two feet long from tip to tail. This fun, interactive toss and tug toy is specifically designed for large dogs…but the “large at heart” medium-sized dogs love them too. Durable reinforced nylon covers the toy and the tails make it easy to pick up and throw. Dogs love to chase the Mega Wubba and shake the flapping tails back and forth. Your big dog will love you for it.
Watch Video Example >>










Camo Wubba
The new KONG Camo Wubba is a fun, interactive tug, toss and fetch toy. Durable reinforced nylon covers the toy. The long tails make it easy to pick up and throw. Dogs love to squeak the Wubba and shake the flapping tails back and forth. Available in three sizes and three colorful camouflage patterns.

Small Extreme KONG
This new size is ideal for smaller breeds with powerful jaws. The Small Extreme KONG is made with our ultra-strong black, natural rubber compound. Extreme KONG toys are recommended and used worldwide by a multitude of professional canine organizations, including: police, drug enforcement and military K-9 units.

    • Perfect for stuffing with KONG Treats and ZIGGIES
    • Our most durable small KONG toy
    • For mini power chewers.

KONG TOY FOCUS
The Essential Dog Toys - Part Three
Part three of our continuing series focuses on categorizing all KONG dog toys into one or more of the five essential toy categories. We have compiled a convenient chart to highlight each toy’s greatest strengths. Before viewing the chart, please familiarize yourself with the category definitions below.

Toy Category Definitions
1. Training Toys -
Dog toys that help eliminate or curb behavioral issues belong in this category. Training toys can be effective tools for addressing numerous canine behavioral issues. These include: stress and boredom, destructive chewing, separation anxiety, assistance in crate training, problem barking and digging. For further training instructions, refer to product User Guides or visit www.KONGcompany.com.

2. Treat Dispenser / Enrichment Toys -
Animal behaviorists and trainers often refer to this category as “Enrichment”, “Developmental” or “Cognitive” toys. You may also hear these toys referred to as “Puzzle” or “Treat Dispenser” toys.

The basic concept of “enrichment” is providing your dog with a fun and rewarding activity to occupy his or her time. Enrichment toys encourage active problem solving and reward play by periodically releasing treats. This random, positive reinforcement will keep your dog entertained both physically and mentally. It’s also great fun to watch your dog, deep in thought, solving the puzzle.   

3. Interactive Fun Toys -
Interactive toys are designed to be used by you and your dog together. Interactive play effectively strengthens the bond between you and your dog. Games like fetch, tug and disc toss help focus your dog’s attention to you and the task at hand. The resulting sharper focus and increased bond will enhance future interactive play and training sessions.
 
Interactive play is also great exercise for you and your dog and provides an opportunity to expend pent-up canine energy. A well-exercised is more likely to a well-behaved and satisfied dog. For puppies and untrained dogs repeated interactive play can also serve to reinforce your dogs place in the human pack and helps develop proper social skills.

4. Self Amusement Toys -
Dog toys in this category are designed to activate and engage your dog’s attention without your direct participation. Important: With any new toy, always supervise use until you feel absolutely sure the toy is safe for your dog.

Developing independent or self-activated play is very important. You can’t always be available to play with your dog, so they need to be able to amuse themselves from time to time. A good selection of safe, amusement toys are the perfect way to activate and ensure play. A dog engaged in play is less likely to misbehave.

Please note: Any toy listed on the chart has the possibility of becoming a Self Amusement Toy. However, this must be determined by you, the owner, through careful observation and supervision. No dog toy is indestructible! Never allow unsupervised use of any toy unless you are absolutely sure the toy is safe for unsupervised play.

5. Comfort Toys –
A comfort toy can be defined as any toy that has a calming, stress-reducing effect on your dog. In many cases it’s a stuffed or cloth toy. These toys tend to have a soft, cuddly feel and also retain a familiar scent after your dog has played or slept with them. However, for some dogs it may be a favorite ball or rubber toy that calms and comforts.

Comfort toys serve several purposes. They can act as a security blanket or a fun, indoor play toy. Both act to reduce stress and provide a calming influence. Many dogs love having a familiar plush toy in their sleeping area, crate or dog house. They also can reduce the stress of travel and make good surrogate toys when you have to leave your dog in a kennel.

For our canine companions, much like children, education is critical to social growth and intellectual development. Providing a variety of educational toys within each category is extremely helpful for creating sharp-minded, well-adjusted canines.

Click HERE to view the Toy category Chart. The chart is easy to use. Simply browse the KONG toys listed in the left hand column. For each toy listed, follow the specific row to the right to determine which toy categories it represents. This chart will help you provide the proper mix of beneficial toys for your dog.

For more information on Essential Toy Categories, see KONG Community Newsletters, Volumes 10 and 11.

KONG TRAINING
Post-Operative Enrichment Techniques
What happens when your dog must undergo an invasive surgical procedure requiring multiple months of post-operative “cage rest” and limited exercise? Today, as veterinary surgeries become more commonplace, dog owners are learning just how stressful this type of post-operative care can be.

Orthopedic procedures, typically those involving the knees or hips, require recovery periods lasting up to six months. While rehabilitation will vary depending on the specific procedure and the individual dog, certain principles remain constant. For orthopedic surgeries, the recovery period is the time during which the bone and connective tissue are healing. Therefore, most veterinarians recommend strict confinement to a crate or cage and clear avoidance of stairs, elevated furniture or any sudden bolts of energy in the months following such procedures. In theory, these recommendations may seem easy to implement, but first hand experience tells otherwise.

Confining a normally active, outdoorsy dog to a crate or exercise pen for several weeks post-surgery can have devastating effects on owner and dog alike. To avoid utter boredom in your confined friend and sheer guilt for you, some type of stimulating distraction is necessary.

Dog owners and vets recommend a food or treat-stuffed KONG toy during these long days of crate rest. A stuffed KONG toy can keep a recovering dog occupied for hours, staving off boredom as the patient becomes an expert at extracting goodies from the toy.

The basic concept behind using a stuffed KONG during the recovery process is to encourage active problem solving and mental stimulation. A stuffed KONG toy encourages thought and provides an enriching activity. The random, positive reinforcement of “un-stuffing” a KONG will keep your dog entertained both physically and mentally.

Remember, during post-operative rehabilitation, your dog’s activity level is substantially diminished and weight gain is a possibility. When providing food or treat-stuffed KONG toys, be sure to offset your dog’s caloric intake by reducing the amount of food given at daily bowl feedings. For healthy stuffing ideas, visit www.KONGcompany.com.

Written by Jill Barnes (KONG’s resident Veterinary Technician)

Ask KONG
This forum provides our community a way to ask questions related to KONG toys, KONG treats, training, behavioral issues and more. As a bonus, four questions will be selected quarterly as winners. Winning questions will be printed in the upcoming newsletters and winners will receive a KONG Gift Basket. Below are the four winning questions from last quarter.

1Q) How often should a KONG toy be washed?
- Leslie Pinherro, Rhode Island USA

A) If the KONG toy was stuffed with food it should be washed after each use. The KONG Company recommends two cleaning methods:

1. Hand wash with dishwashing soap and warm water. A narrow brush can help remove stubborn food particles inside the toy.
2. Rubber KONG toys can also be cleaned in your dishwasher, top shelf only and no dry cycle.

2Q) Is it ok to give a puppy an adult Classic KONG toy?
- Emma DeZordi, Canada

A) Yes, it is ok to give a puppy a regular Classic KONG toy, but a Puppy KONG is likely to be more beneficial for the following reasons.

 Puppies are born with the instinctual desire to chew.  This natural instinct will grow stronger as your puppy develops and begins teething. It is very important to teach your puppy at an early age what is acceptable to chew and what is not. If you fail to do so, your puppy will make that decision on his own, perhaps choosing your favorite pair of shoes or your beautiful new sofa.
 
In the first stages of puppyhood, most puppies’ jaws are unable to compress or chew the adult Classic KONG rubber. Therefore, most puppies find the Puppy KONG toy more desirable. Our Puppy KONG rubber is specifically formulated for a puppy’s growing jaws. The softer Puppy KONG rubber encourages chewing which in turn aids in strengthening the jaw muscles and teaching proper chewing habits. As with the adult version, the Puppy KONG can be stuffed with puppy food or treats to further encourage chewing.
 
As your puppy grows stronger he or she will eventually need to graduate to the adult Classic KONG. Depending on how much your dog has grown, you may need move up a size or two as well.

3Q)Do you think dogs get aching tongues from trying to get the food out of the KONG toys?
- Brenda Winslade, United Kingdom

A) The KONG Company is very involved with veterinary community. Annually, we attend multiple veterinary associations’ events and seminars. In over thirty years, the KONG Company has never received a complaint or heard of any clinical incident of a sore, aching tongue resulting from the licking of a food-stuffed KONG toy.

That’s not to say your dog’s tongue can’t get sore, especially when using a treat-stuffed KONG toy for the first time. Much like a person starting a new exercise routine, their muscles can get sore for the first few days, then adapt as they get stronger. Your dog’s tongue is a well developed muscle - the more it’s used the stronger it will get.

4Q) How many times a week would you recommend giving a large dog a food-stuffed KONG toy?
- Annette Parks, Ohio USA

A) As long as you adjust the amount of dog food (calories) offered at mealtimes, it is okay to give your dog treat-stuffed KONG toys every day. Some people even feed their dogs regular meals stuffed inside KONG toys. Below we will discuss some of the background and benefits for this method of feeding and treat dispensing.

Most wild animals are born with an instinctive drive to hunt and forage for food. In nature, an animal’s hunting and foraging skills are essential for survival. When these important skills are practiced and improved, the more intelligent and effective the animal becomes, increasing its odds for survival.

Most zoos include a variety of enriching feeding programs to their animal’s daily feeding schedules. Many enrichment feeding programs mimic foraging choices found in an animal's natural habitat. These choices include hiding or hanging food in the animal's enclosure. Other programs use unusual and challenging food items that provide mental stimulation. Examples of such items include: frozen mixtures of natural foods, feeder puzzles, or food-stuffed interactive toys. These programs add variety and enrichment for zoo animals and effectively decrease boredom, depression, pacing, and destructive behavior.

Your dog's needs are very similar. Providing an enriching and stimulating environment is an important factor in raising a healthy, well-adjusted dog. Feeding by bowl alone at regular intervals will satisfy your dog's nutritional needs, but does nothing to address his or her psychological and intellectual needs. Adding interactive feeding sessions to your dog's normal feeding schedule will be rewarding and educational.

Got a KONG Question?
Simply email your question to AskKONG@KONGcompany.com. Each quarter, our group of Pet Experts will answer your question(s) and enter you into the "Ask KONG" contest for a chance to win one of four KONG Gift Baskets.

KONG STUFF'N RECIPES AND ACTIVITIES
KONG Toys are the original treat-dispensing toys; a properly stuffed KONG Toy will keep your dog busy and content for hours. Along with relieving boredom, a stuffed KONG Toy will provide an enriching activity that stimulates both physically and mentally. Remember to reduce your dog’s bowl feeding when offering two or more stuffed KONG toys daily. Clean KONG toys thoroughly after each use. We recommend cleaning rubber KONG toys by hand or in the top shelf of dishwasher, with no dry cycle.

Basic Stuff’N Suggestions
For quick and easy KONG stuffing use any of our KONG treats, pastes or ZIGGIES. KONG treats are specifically designed to fit KONG toys. Experiment with combinations of two or more KONG Treats, Pastes or ZIGGIES for a longer lasting stuffed KONG session.

Winning KONG Stuff’N Recipe
Each quarter, KONG Company staff tests and chooses a winning KONG Stuff’N Recipe from those sent in by KONG Community members. Recipes can be entirely original or utilize any combination of KONG Stuff’N Treats. Be creative and feel free to stuff any model of KONG toy. Winners will receive a KONG Gift Basket stuffed with a variety of fun KONG toys and tasty KONG Stuff’N treats.

This newsletter’s winning recipe comes from Rozilyn Crow of West Virginia and her dogs Riley Jane, Ranger, Daytona, & Gunner.

Peanut Butter Batter with Surprise Inside
Ingredients:

Peanut Butter (I like creamy, but you can use crunchy)
1 Apple
Uncooked Oatmeal
Water
1-2 of your dog’s favorite Treats (Nothing too large)
1 - 2 KONG toys (Stuff a second KONG, refrigerate or freeze for later)

Start by peeling and coring the apple. Cut apple into small chunks and place into mixing bowl. Add in the peanut butter (I never measure, but I use about 2 big spoonfuls). Stir together. Now add in the oats (Again I never measure. Just use fewer oats than peanut butter). Now stir in just enough water to give the mixture a texture similar to cookie dough batter. Be careful not to add to much water! Doing so will make the batter too runny to stay inside the KONG toy!

Fill your Kong about halfway full of batter then stop. Now insert your dog’s favorite treat(s) into the center. Then continue to place the remaining batter in around the treats until KONG toy is full. Give to your dog, and watch him/her enjoy this nutritious and enriching treat.

I have four dogs, and they enjoy this treat immensely! Working towards the surprise treat inside is fun, and getting there is rewarding. Incidentally, this makes a healthful, tasty treat for humans, too. Just spread some on bread or toast for an anytime snack.

Rozilyn Crow, Riley Jane, Ranger, Daytona, & Gunner
Chester, West Virginia

KONG Activity
KONG Iceberg Cooler
Do you have a hot dog? As summer days continue to heat up, try this clever activity to keep your dog cool and happily occupied during outside playtime. Remember, dogs are curious creatures that delight in fun and challenging puzzles. So make up this tasty iced treat for your pup and watch as they enjoy some frosty fun in the sun!

Here’s what you need:
1. Two to three of your dog’s favorite KONG toys. A variety of shapes and sizes is best.
2. A plastic or metal container that will fit into your freezer. We suggest a small to medium sized plastic bucket or your dog’s food or water bowl.

The container should easily accommodate the KONG toys in one layer across the bottom. Make sure the container is clean and free of any debris before you begin. Place the toys at the bottom of the bucket and add enough water so the KONG toys are completely submerged. The more water you add, the bigger your KONG Iceberg will be.

To customize the Iceberg, stuff the KONG toys with surprise treats and sprinkle in pieces of kibble, treats, and biscuits along side the toys. You can opt for other healthy additions, like bits of fruit or vegetables. Carrots and apples work very well for this activity. Be careful not to use any food items that may disagree with your pup’s stomach.

Place the container in the freezer until it is wholly frozen. Depending on the size of the container, this could require several hours or overnight, so be sure to plan ahead. After the concoction is frozen, run warm water over the container to free the Iceberg. Unfinished Icebergs can be placed in a zip-lock bag and stored in the freezer for later use.
Watch Video Example >>

Additional summer safety tips:
•Extended walking on hot asphalt, sidewalks, and sand can cause burn injuries to their pads.
• NEVER your leave dog in a hot car.

Take measures to prevent heat stroke:
• Always provide lots of water
• Provide shade in the backyard

KONG CONTESTS
New Member Gift Basket Winners
Sam Donald
Angela Behymer
June Coors
Michele Rago
Lisa Martens
Sylvie La Chapelle
Carol Ullrich
Tiffany Smithburg
Sephera Dandurand
Christine Hawes
Tanya Mairs
Craig Bryan
Meri Beth Weber
Eve Willoughby
Nicole Inmon
Kathy Cataline
Kristi Roy
Stephanie Myers
Marisa Rothrock
Fiona McCoy

If your name appears, please email us at kong@kongcompany.com to claim your prize.

Senior KONG Photo Contest Winners –
From Volume 11

The Senior KONG Photo Contest grand prize winner was Megan Magnant of Midwest City, Oklahoma and her dog Roxy. They have won $500.00 and a KONG gift basket.














Our second place winner is Carrie and David Raymond and their dog Athena from Parkton, North Carolina. Carrie, David and Athena have won a large KONG gift basket.

The third place winner is Melanie Mattson of Golden, Colorado and her dog Avalanche. Melanie and Avalanche will receive a medium KONG gift basket.

The KONG Company would like to thank all the community members who submitted Senior KONG photos. As usual, your participation in the photo contest was overwhelming and the photos superb. It was truly a pleasure viewing all the Senior KONG dogs.

Check out the new KONG Photo Contest in this issue for another chance to win $500.00 or one of three KONG gift baskets.

Volume 12 Photo Contest - You and Your KONG Dog
Win a $250.00cash prize and or valuable KONG Gift Baskets! It’s simple. Photograph you and your dog using any model KONG toy and email digital image to: kong@kongcompany.com Photographs of any family member with your dog are acceptable. Be sure any model KONG toy is also in the photograph. Please click link below for more contest details and rules.

Or mail photograph to:
You and Your KONG Dog Photo Contest
16191 Table Mountain Parkway
Golden, CO 80403-1641
(Photos mailed to the KONG Company cannot be returned)

Please read rules and regulations

Welcome to the second issue of KONG Kids. We hope you enjoy the fun features and articles within. This section is geared toward young dog owners 4 to 15 years old. Be sure to enter the fun contests. You and your dog could win a KONG Gift Basket, full of KONG toys and treats.

KONG Kids Dog Care Tips
In this section the KONG Company will offer Dog care tips and advice designed to help you and your furry friend. We would also love to hear from you, if you have any dog care questions or tips of your own. You can email us at: kong@kongcompany.com

Brushing Your Dog
Depending on your dog's coat, he or she may need a lot of brushing. Without brushing, hair can get tangled and matted. Most long-haired dogs need brushing at least every other day. Short-haired dogs are usually fine if brushed once or twice a week.

I know….brushing seems like such a big chore. But if you do it right it can be a special time for you and your dog. Most dogs love to be brushed, take your time brushing and be gentle. A good brushing should only take five or ten minutes and your dog will love you for it.

If your dog does not like being brushed, try the following training method:

1. To start use a softer brush instead of a wire slicker or metal comb. The soft and flexible KONG ZoomGroom is a perfect choice.

2. Have several, very small treats available for “good dog” rewards. Breaking treats into smaller pieces is recommended. You will probably use 20 or 30 treats per training session.

3. Call your dog and reward him with a small treat for coming when called. Show your dog the brush and then reward him again. Before you start brushing, touch your dogs back with the brush then give him a treat reward and praise (Good Boy!). Repeat this step a few times.

4. In the beginning, isolate the brushing to one area of your dog’s body. The back or thigh is a good place to start as these areas are usually less sensitive. Slowly and gently brush your dog, one or two strokes only, and then reward him with a small treat if his behavior is good. If he starts to run away or fuss use a firm “no” and begin over. Only reward for good behavior. You may need to use a leash to keep your dog near you in the beginning.

5. Repeat the brushing steps above, at least six times per session, using one or two brush strokes each time. As long as your dog stays with you and does not fuss, reward him for the good behavior. Keep steps four and five short, no more than five minutes per session and two sessions per day.

6. As your dog begins to accept the short brushing sessions without fuss, start increasing the number of brush strokes in between treat rewards. You can also start brushing other areas of his body. For each new area you may need to reduce the amount of brush strokes before reward. Be sure to reward the good behavior.

7. Eventually, your dog will tolerate or even enjoy increased numbers of brush strokes between treat rewards. The goal is to increase the number of brush strokes and time spent brushing, while reducing the number of treats given during each brushing session.

My Dog Contest
Do you have a special dog? Of course you do. All dogs are special and unique, and that’s why we love them so much. Tell us what makes your dog so special. For each issue, one letter will be chosen as a winner and printed in an upcoming newsletter. The winner will receive a KONG Kids Gift Basket.

This issue’s winner is Carleigh Whitehead and her dog Ripley from Starke, Florida. Carleigh and Ripley have won a junior gift basket of KONG toys and treats.

My Dog Ripley
I have the greatest puppy ever! His name is Ripley and he is a four month old yellow lab. Ripley loves to chew everything in sight. Flip flops, couch cushions, you name it Rip chews on it!

His favorite toy of many is his great red Classic KONG. We use the KONG toy to give him special treats and reward Ripley for good behavior at home. I specially love to give Ripley his KONG because he is sooo happy when he gets it!

Sometimes, he tries to hide the KONG in the couch. He is so funny. My favorite picture shows Ripley playing with his red KONG toy and it looks like he is sitting in my video game chair. Ripley is a wonderful part of our family and we feel he deserves only the best. KONG is a great treat for him.

Thank you for such a great product,
Carleigh Whitehead
Age 11
Starke, FL

KONG Kids Art Contest
Calling all young artists! Show us your talent. Create your KONG-related masterpiece today. Your artwork can be a drawing, painting or sculpture, using any style or media you wish.

The winner of the 4 - 7 group is Emma Gabriel, age six from Saginaw, Michigan, USA.








The winner of the 8 - 11 group is Hailey Hildebrand, age 11 from St. Andrews, Manitoba, Canada.

The winner of the 12 - 15 group is Tahlia Giannopoulas, age 13 from Melbourne, Australia.









Artwork received will be judged by KONG Company employees and one winner will be chosen for each of three age groups: 4-7, 8-11 and 12-15. Wining artwork will be showcased in the next KONG Kids section. Best of all, each winner will receive a KONG Kids Gift Basket. You and your dog will love it!

Scan or photograph your masterpiece and email it to: kong@kongcompany.com

Or mail artwork to:
KONG Kids Art Contest
16191 Table Mountain Parkway
Golden, CO 80403-1641

(Artwork mailed to the KONG Company cannot be returned.)
Please read rules and regulations

KONG Kids Letter
Tell us about your KONG experiences. You can write about anything KONG related. Examples include: KONG games you play with your dog, funny things your dog does with KONG toys or treats or how KONG has helped your dog. We love to hear from our young KONG users and will choose one winning letter for each upcoming issue.

This issues winner is Maria Perrin and her seven dogs from Minden, Ontario, Canada. Maria and her dogs have won a KONG Gift Basket full of KONG toys and treats.

Dear KONG Company,
We think KONG toy is great! We have 7 dogs who all are good chewers. They could rip a stuffed toy to pieces in seconds! For our dogs, KONG toys are the best. 

We use KONG toys for many things. Here are just a few examples. We use them stuffed with treats to keep our dogs busy. They were good when my mom had a dog in agility training. He always barked and distracted other dogs. We didn’t know what to do. So we stuffed a KONG with treats and tried it. It worked like a charm. We also use them when our dogs are in their crates. This is why my dogs and I think KONG is best.

Maria Perrin,
Grade 3, Age 9

p.s. The dog’s names are Lightning, Thunder, Flash, Rain, Storm, Flurry and Noah. I love my dogs.

NEW KONG CAT SECTION

As we all know, cats are from Venus and dogs are from Mars. To put it another way: What works for a dog, most definitely, won’t work for a cat. That’s why we have added the KONG Cat Activity and KONG Cat Behavior Modification columns.

You will also find the New KONG Cat Products and KONG Cat Photo Contest sections below.

As with any newsletter section, your comments and suggestions are welcome and help shape future issues.

Cat Activity
Interactive Teaser Toys

Planning daily “playtimes” with your cat is a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your feline friend, provide regular exercise and relieve stress - for both of you! The Teaser Cat Toys from KONG are designed to facilitate such interactive play. Here are some tips for using your KONG Teaser Cat Toy:

• Keep the teaser play to one or two, 10 to 15 minute sessions per day.
• Avoid direct sunlight or bright lighting; cats prefer to hunt in dim light.
• Teaser toys should only be used for interactive play and put away when not in use. This will help keep these toys unique and special.
• Leave the activity on a positive note after your cat “catches” its prey; or after 2-3 minutes of showing no interest in the toy.
• Praise your cat after each session. Reward him with a treat after a successful “catch”.

Another positive feature of the KONG Cat Teaser Toy is that your cat gets to experience the thrill of actually catching its prey. It is a good idea to vary the approach so that your cat can touch and feel the item which it is hunting once in a while. Below are additional suggestions to enhance interactive playtime using a KONG Cat Teaser:

• Try to emulate the motions of actual prey by making the toy fly, change speeds between fast and slow, have it remain still for a period of time, make it “hide” behind a chair or let it crawl along the ground.
• Alternate between letting your cat successfully catch the toy and zipping it away at the last minute to create a “near miss” – too many “catches” can lead to boredom, while too many “misses” can lead to frustration.
• Limit your play sessions to the structure mentioned above, end it on a positive note, and be sure to praise your cat just for playing with you.

Interactive play is great for both cats and their owners. You will find yourself looking forward to play times as much as your cat does!

New KONG Cat Products
The KONG Company is proud to be the recognized leader in quality pet products. All of our new cat products are tested under veterinarian supervision by happy family cats. Here are the latest additions to our ever-expanding line of KONG Cat products.

Catnip Spray
KONG Naturals Catnip Spray is made with concentrated catnip oil for maximum enjoyment. Our oil is steam-distilled from finest North American catnip, producing the most potent catnip oil. For irresistible fun, spray on toys, teasers, scratchers or cat condos. Your cat will love you for it.

Cat Behavior Modification
Cat Scratching
The urge to scratch is a natural instinct for cats, and instead of trying to eliminate this behavior altogether, you can focus your energy on nurturing it in a positive way. Every cat should be provided with several scratching surfaces that are acceptable for them to use, while being guided away from scratching furniture, walls, or woodwork. Allowing your cat to scratch appropriately will help her maintain strong and healthy claws, keep fit and healthy, and relieve anxiety.

KONG offers several varieties of Cat Scratcher products in our Cat Naturals line to help nurture the natural instinct to scratch:

• Single Cat Scratcher
• Double Cat Scratcher
• Incline Cat Scratcher
• Corner Cat Scratcher

Refill packs are available for all Cat Scratcher products except for the Corner Cat Scratcher. The corrugated surface is two-sided, so once your cat has worn down one side, you can flip it over for added use. To entice your cat to use the Cat Scratcher, you can spread some of the catnip that is included with each KONG Cat Scratcher to the scratching surface, or apply KONG Catnip Spray.

The Cat Scratchers should be placed around your house in areas where your cat would commonly scratch. This includes the entrance and exit to rooms, corners, and near the area where she sleeps.

When you see your cat using the KONG Cat Scratcher, you should praise her behavior, tell her she’s doing a good job and reward her with her favorite treat if she has one. In the same manner, if you see your cat engaging in harmful or destructive scratching, you should immediately attempt to correct the negative behavior. You can do one of the following:

• Shout “NO” and clap your hands
• Give your cat a “spritz” of water from a misting bottle
• Create a loud, irritating noise
• NEVER use physical punishment such as hitting or swatting your cat

Remember, the urge to scratch is completely natural and you are better off directing your cat to acceptable scratching surfaces rather than trying to eliminate all scratching. It is also important to keep your cat’s claws trimmed, whether you do it yourself or leave the task to your veterinarian or grooming professional.

NEW KONG Cat Photo Contest - KONG Cat Wubba
Win $250.00 cash and or valuable KONG Cat Gift Baskets! It’s simple. Photograph your cat using any KONG Wubba or Hugga for Cats (toy or teaser) and email digital image to: kong@kongcompany.com

Or mail photograph to:
KONG Wubba for Cats Contest
16191 Table Mountain Parkway
Golden, CO 80403-1641

(Photos mailed to the KONG Company cannot be returned.)
Please read rules and regulations

For more important KONG Wubba for Cats information and suggestions please refer to our website at www.kongcompany.com