KONG NEWS
Thank you for being part of the 9th issue of the KONG Community Newsletter. Our community now consists of over 50,000 active members worldwide. In this issue we include descriptions of KONG’s newest products, KONG Contest winners, KONG Activity Tips and a special KONG Training section.


New sections this issue: “Ask KONG” & “KONG Toy Focus”

Ask KONG
Our new “question and answer” section is added in response to requests from KONG Community members. This forum will give our community a way to ask questions related to KONG toys, KONG treats, training, behavioral issues and more. Your questions will be answered by KONG’s canine behavior and training specialists or a member of KONG’s technical team.

The KONG Company also added a new contest to compliment the new forum. Three questions from each quarter will be selected as winners and receive free KONG toys. Winning questions will be printed in the upcoming newsletter.

KONG Toy Focus
Many community members asked us to review some of the features and benefits of our older, more established toys and treats. In past issues the KONG Community Newsletter primarily focused on new KONG products.

This new section will provide an in-depth focus on unique features and benefits of established KONG Toys and Treats. With over 30 years of dog toy experience and over 300 products, there are many KONG toys and treats to focus on in upcoming issues. Each volume will focus on one KONG product. Learn more about the products that built the KONG brand, established loyal customers and created happy, healthy dogs.

KONG Toys Now Available for Every Stage of Your Dog's Life

Recently the KONG Company introduced our NEW Senior KONG line. This new line of toys and treats is specifically designed for the needs of older less active dogs. See New KONG Products section.

Senior KONG completes the KONG Life Stages selection of toys and treats. KONG Life Stages toy categories consist of Puppy KONG, Classic KONG, Extreme KONG and Senior KONG.

KONG Rubber Formulas and Features

Puppy KONGPuppy KONG Rubber
• Beginning chewers
• Soft / Chewy Rubber
• Recommended for growing puppies
• After adult teeth come in - graduate to Classic KONG
• Blue and White Swirl or Pink and White Swirl



Classic KONG
Classic KONG Rubber

• Typical chewers
• Medium / Hard Rubber
• Recommended for most
adult dogs
• Red





Extreme KONG
Extreme KONG Rubber

• Aggressive chewers
• Hard Rubber / Most Durable
• Recommended for high-drive adult dogs
• Black





Senior KONG
Senior KONG Rubber

• Light chewers
• Medium / Soft Rubber
• Recommended for gentle adult and senior dogs
• Made for the aging jaws of a senior dog
• Purple and White Swirl




KONG Treat Quality Assurance


Valued KONG Customers,
In light of recent events involving dog food recalls, we want to take a moment to reassure all of our customers KONG treat products are completely safe. We have no affiliation with the companies and plants that produced the tainted pet food. All our consumables are manufactured in the USA. We stringently and thoroughly test our products for quality and safety. KONG Treats meet or exceed industry standards for quality. In fact, every batch of KONG dog treats is tested for microbiological activity by an approved third party laboratory prior to packaging as required by APHIS and international regulation. KONG products never appeared on a recall list and we look forward to years of providing safe, healthy treats for your pets.

Sincerely,
The KONG Company


GUEST ARTICLE
Dock Dog Jumping
By Barb Radtke

The sport of Dock Dog Jumping is growing by leaps and bounds. It’s getting more media attention and dogs are jumping further every day. The Dock Dog’s objective is to jump as far as possible off the end of a dock into a body of water. To coax the dog to jump, a toy or object is thrown ahead of the dog.

There are three aspects to successful dock jumping: speed, lift, and the ability to hit the end of the dock. For a typical dock jump the handler starts by setting his dog at the start point and then walks to the jump point. The handler will then release the dog and time the throw so the dog will chase the object and jump. The dog needs to jump up and out after the toy or object, attempting to gain as much distance over the water as possible.

I got started in the sport of Dock Jumping / Diving because my dog Rock needed an outlet for his boundless energy. He is a highly motivated and toy-driven dog who loves the water. After our first event, we were hooked. For me it was simply watching the joy, excitement, and drive Rock exhibits in the competitions.

The Sport has dogs of all sizes, shapes and breeds. Getting started is easy. Your dog may already water retrieve in your pool, nearest pond, river or lake. Always be sure the water is clear of any obstacles or danger. Start basic water retrieval training with short distance throws in shallow water. I always use the KONG Water Wubba. Once your dog is comfortable with basic water retrieval, move your training to a safe dock. Again, start with short throws within easy reach your dog so they don’t get discouraged. Let your dog retrieve it and bring it back. Give lots of praise and encouragement, of course. Oh and be warned, getting the KONG Water Wubba back from your dog can be a challenge in itself!

Dogs love the KONG Water Wubba. It has a lot of movement from its tail which stimulates their mind, curiosity and senses. This water toy is fun, entertaining and motivating. It can be tossed, it can be carried and it can be retrieved. It floats, it can be tugged, it can be shaken and it can be caught.

Rock JumpingThe KONG Water Wubba I use in the sport is lightweight, floats, soft on the mouth and its frilly movement is very eye catching for Rock. It is easily thrown. A lot of Teams (dog and handler) throw the Wubba by the tails or tentacles, as some Teams call it. My secret technique is throwing it by holding it at the body for a more accurate toss. Wet it first. It gives it a little more weight and Rock enjoys it better wet.

I have personally witnessed new teams excel their jumping distance when their dogs are introduced to their first KONG Water Wubba. They go bonkers over it! Their drive and love for the toy make a world of difference!

Rock and I travel extensively throughout the US to compete with the various Dock Jumping Organizations. At eight years old, Rock, a black Labrador Retriever, became classed as a Veteran jumper and was awarded the 2006 Highest Ranked Veteran Dog Award. Rock even has an event named in his honor, the “The Rock Classic”.

For Rock and I think the KONG Water Wubba is a must have toy. KONG Water Wubba comes in two sizes (large and extra-large). KONG Wubba also comes in other varieties and sizes. The Original KONG Wubba has a squeaker and is covered with durable, reinforced nylon fabric. Rock loves the squeaker and enjoys shaking the Wubba from side to side. KONG also makes a Puppy Wubba and a fleece covered Snugga Wubba.


Letters from the KONG Community
This month, the KONG Company would like to share another letter sent to us by a grateful member of the KONG community. It is refreshing to be part of a community and product line that truly makes a positive difference in the lives of companion animals and their owners.

Dear KONG Company,
I have to tell you what a lifesaver your Classic KONG toy is. We adopted an abused Black Lab from the local Animal Shelter. Misty had no self-confidence and was scared of everything and everyone. The Animal Shelter had enrolled her in the Cell Training Program where she was trained by cell mates at the area prison. She slowly learned her commands, but was still extremely scared and shy. 
Upon seeing Misty, it was love at first sight. The first two days were difficult. She was especially scared of our teenage sons and all the noise associated with them. When I would leave for work she would have terrible separation anxiety, chewing and destroying everything in sight, including the carpet in my bedroom. We seriously doubted our decision to adopt such an emotionally traumatized dog. We took Misty to our veterinarian to see what could be done, he recommended KONG products. 
Misty and I left the vet’s office and immediately went to our local pet store. We purchased the large KONG toy and some KONG Stuff’N treats. The first time we gave Misty her treat-stuffed KONG toy we pretended to leave the house and went outside to peek in the window. We watched as she worked for more than 20 minutes un-stuffing the KONG treats. Misty forgot all about us being gone. We knew then we had found our cure. 
Now when she sees one of us with a KONG toy in our hand, she heads straight to her room, ready for us to leave. No more destroyed property, no more anxious dog! She'll even bring the KONG toy to me, as if telling me it's time for me to go somewhere so she can have her KONG treats.
Thank you for such wonderful products.  Misty is a true joy to have and she gives KONG products her seal of approval.

Rhonda McGee
Norwich, OH. 43767

Rhonda McGee and her dog Misty are this issue’s 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.


NEW KONG PRODUCTS
The KONG Company is proud to be the recognized leader in quality pet products. All new products are thoroughly tested by happy family pets. Veterinarians also approve and test all our new products. Here are the latest additions to our ever-expanding product line.


New KONG Toys
Senior KONGsSenior KONG - Senior KONG toys are made with KONG’s exclusive natural rubber Senior Formula. This gentle yet durable rubber formula is perfect for aging teeth and jaws. Senior KONG toys are designed to encourage play and exercise in older, less active dogs but also work perfect for gentle, less-aggressive adult chewers of any age. Senior KONG toys will aid with numerous behavioral challenges. They include: inappropriate chewing, separation anxiety, problem barking and alleviating boredom.

Water WubbasWater Wubba – The KONG Company makes a splash with KONG Water Wubba. Made with brightly colored neoprene (wet suit) fabric cover, this toy is easy to see and fast to dry. Water Wubba floats high in the water. Long tails make it easy to pick up and throw. Interactive water fun for you and your dog! Comes in three colors: yellow, orange, green and two sizes: large and x-large.

Snugga Wubba DogSnugga Wubba – KONG Snugga Wubba is a fun, playful, interactive toss toy. Made with thick fleece fabric, dogs find it to be very comforting to snuggle with. The Snugga Wubba is very quiet and is perfect for indoor play. Long tails make it easy to pick up and throw. Your dog will love you for it. Available in three sizes, small, medium and large and assorted pastel pink, light blue, and lavender.


New KONG Treats
Senior SnapsKONG Stuff’N Senior Snaps – The KONG Company is pleased to announce the addition of KONG Senior Snaps. These chicken and liver treats are low in fat and easily digestible. Perfect for stuffing your Senior KONG toy or as ANYTIME TREAT. Healthy and all-natural, these treats do not contain wheat, corn or soy. Available in Large and Mini.

Ingredients: Barley Flour, Ground Oats, Spelt Flour, Chicken Meat, Fresh Carrots, Rice Protein, Chicken Livers, Canola Oil, Caramel Color, Dried Eggs, Flaxseed Meal, Mixed Tocopherols (natural source of vitamin E)
.

Senior PasteKONG Stuff’N Senior Treat – KONG Stuff’N Senior Treat is the latest addition to the new Senior KONG line. Formulated with natural lamb flavor and rice, this convenient treat is low in calories and easily digestible. Designed as a stuffing for Senior KONG toys, it will encourage exercise and play. Senior Treat can also be used as an appetite stimulant / food topping or an irresistible coating for your senior dog’s medicine.


KONG Toy Focus
KONG Jump’N Jack

KONG JackThe ultra-bouncy, KONG Jump’N Jack is an established member of KONG’s legendary, natural rubber toy line. Made with durable KONG rubber you can expect a great toy performance and bounce.

The Jump’N Jack has an unpredictable bounce that is irresistible to dogs, the perfect toy for a game of toss and fetch. The patented, teeth-cleaning Denta Ridges make the Jump’N Jack a fun and effective dental toy. The Denta Ridges can also be filled with KONG’s delicious Stuff’N Pastes and Treats. Some treats can be broken into smaller pieces for more of a challenge.

A treat-stuffed Jump’N Jack will keep any dog occupied and entertained.


KONG TRAINING
Reduce Unwanted Barking the KONG Way

barking pupSome canine behavior problems, such as house soiling, affect only the dog’s owner. On the other hand, excessive barking can be annoying and can result in unhappy neighbors. Excessive barking also violates most local animal ordinances.

Dogs bark to express themselves verbally and are entitled to a little expression. However, continual barking for long periods of time is a sign that your dog has a problem that needs to be addressed.

Most problem barking is simply caused by boredom or the stress of being left alone. The best remedies for this type of problem barking is regular exercise for your dog and providing KONG toys stuffed with healthy treats when you leave home. The more you can do to stimulate your dog mentally and physically the better your dog will behave when you are away. A well exercised and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to engage in problem barking.

In some cases, barking problems, such as those caused by fear or aggression may need to be handled by a professional trainer or behaviorist.


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 KONGs daily. Clean KONG toys thoroughly after each use. Hand wash with soapy water or use top shelf of dishwasher.

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

Winning KONG Stuff'N Recipe:
The KONG staff will choose 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 with any KONG toy. The winner will receive a KONG Gift Basket full of KONG toys and treats.

This newsletter's winning recipe comes from Linda Gill.

Frozen Tuna Salad KONG
Ingredients:
1 can (6 oz.) light tuna
2 tbsp. plain yogurt
1/4 cup grated carrot

Bella, my 8 month old Labradoodle, loves this recipe. Great outdoor treat for a hot summer day.

Mix together well and spoon into KONG toy. Freeze.
This treat is healthy and high in Omega-3 fatty acids which contribute to healthy skin and a glistening coat.  Plus, it keeps her happy, cool and busy!

Thanks,
Linda Gill
Mendham, NJ

Featured KONG Toy Activity:
Senior Dogs Thrive on Physical Activity and Mental Challenge

Senior DogAs dogs age their metabolism slows and they naturally become less active. This doesn’t mean your older dog is content to lie around all day doing nothing. In fact, a sedentary lifestyle for older dogs can be counter-productive to their health.

Lack of exercise can cause obesity and a host of other ailments. Physical exercise is as important for your dog as it is for you. A regular, age-appropriate exercise program will benefit your dog’s heart, lungs, circulation, digestive system, joints and will help maintain a healthy weight. See your veterinarian if you are unsure how much exercise is right for your senior dog.

Providing mental stimulation is also very important for your dog’s intellectual and cognitive health. Senior dogs will maintain vigor and mental clarity longer when presented with daily mental stimulation. It can be as easy as daily reinforcement of basic training and manners, providing a variety of toy/treat puzzles, a short walk in an unfamiliar area, or teaching an old dog a new trick.


KONG CONTESTS

New Member Gift Basket Winners
Recently the KONG Company held a contest for non-KONG Community dog owners. Ad banners were placed on the KONG website to announce the contest. Subscribing to the FREE KONG Community Newsletter was the only requirement for entry.

Twenty lucky entrants were chosen at random and are listed below. They won a large KONG gift basket valued at over $100.00. For all contestants who did not win this time, please read your newsletter for details regarding other fun KONG contests held throughout the year. The newsletter contests are available only to KONG Community members, significantly increasing your odds of winning.


Erin Krueger
Elizabeth Barlie
Jeanine Price
Mike Bean
Ross Hobbie
Paul Keyser
Herb Sussman
Billy Sandoval
Dylan Randolph
Martha Jamison
Jennifer Jennings
Ernest Smith
Hope Norman
Holly Kendall
Angie Bradley
Samantha Patterson
Charley Thompson
Melissa Baney
Teresa McLaughlin
Carol Harrity

To claim your prize please contact Brent Voorhees at bvoorhees@kongcompany.com. Please provide your dog’s name for verification and your shipping address. Prizes will be sent via UPS.

Thank you to all participants and welcome to the KONG Community.

KONG Wubba Photo Contest
Winners from Volume 8

WinnerLast issue the KONG Wubba Photo Contest grand prize winner was Marcela Diaz Villaflor of Santiago, Chile and her dog Julieta. They have won $500.00 and a KONG gift basket.










Our second place winner is Shannon Foster of Bakersfield, CA and her dog Rupert. Shannon and Rupert have won a large KONG gift basket.





Third Place The third place winner is Josiah Trujillo of Loveland, CO and his dog Bera. Josiah and Bera will receive a medium KONG gift basket.





The KONG Company thanks all community members who submitted KONG Wubba photos. As usual, your participation in the photo contest was overwhelming and the photos superb. It was truly a pleasure viewing all the happy 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.

digital CameraKONG Flyer and Puppy Flyer Photo Contest
Win $500.00 or valuable KONG Gift Baskets! It’s simple. Photograph your dog using a KONG Flyer or Puppy Flyer and email digital image to: kong@kongcompany.com.

Or mail photograph to:Dog KONG Flyer
KONG Flyer and Puppy Flyer Photo Contest
16191 Table Mountain Pkwy
Golden, CO 80403-1641


Photos mailed to the KONG Company cannot be returned.

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

Rules:
1. The photo must contain a dog(s) interacting with a KONG Flyer or Puppy Flyer.
2. Make sure your photo is clear and of good quality (300 dpi preferred). If your picture is blurry, or the KONG Flyer or Puppy Flyer is unrecognizable, it is not likely to win. 
3. Limit two photos per contestant per quarterly contest.
4. The dog owner’s mailing address and phone number must be included. Any prize won will be mailed to that address. Contestant information will never be used or distributed for any other purpose.
5. The KONG Company will pick one “Best Photo” winner from the images received.
6. There are three guaranteed prize categories: Grand Prize Winner, Second Place Winner and Third Prize Winner. Grand Prize winners will receive $500.00 US and a large KONG Gift Basket. Second Place winners will receive a large KONG Gift Basket (worth approximately $120.00). Third Place winners will receive a medium KONG Gift Basket (worth approximately $85.00).
7. Photo comments and captions are welcome, but not necessary to win.
8. All entries must be received by October 25th, 2007. No entries accepted after October 25th, 2007. A winner will be selected by October 30th, 2007.
9. Winning photos may be used in KONG Company advertisements and promotions. By submitting photographic images to the KONG Company, you grant KONG Company a perpetual, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, modify, publish, distribute, and otherwise exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to those photographic images at its sole discretion, including storing it on KONG Company servers and incorporating it in other works in any media now known or later developed including, without limitation, published books. The KONG Company reserves the right to select, edit and arrange submissions, and to remove images from the KONG Company website at any time at its sole discretion.


NEXT KONG NEWSLETTER WILL BE SENT
Fall 2007

If you have any comments or suggestions for future newsletters, please let us know. Click here to send comments, and please mention the newsletter in the subject line of the email. Thank you!

KONG Newsletter Archives
• Volume 1 - March, 2005
• Volume 2 - June, 2005
• Volume 3 - October, 2005
• Volume 4 - January, 2006
• Volume 5 - May, 2006

• Volume 6 - September, 2006
• Volume 7 - January, 2007
• Volume 8 - April, 2007

For More Information Visit www.kongcompany.com

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