Welcome! I'm glad you found my website. I hope you will enjoy your visit and find the site informative and entertaining.

THE BASICS

The DogInfomat IS:
  • A categorized collection of select, previewed, dog-related website links, original articles, features, photos, and news. The site also hosts a variety of subordinate sites as a courtesy to those who have requested a place for their noncommercial, dog-friendly websites

    The DogInfomat IS NOT:
  • A 'free for all' links site;
  • A breeder's network or place for animal related classified ads;
  • A site to market dog related products or services;
  • Intended to take the place of direct professional counsel and service.

    If you are interested in domain or website hosting or design services, catering to the online dog community, please visit Dremel Net Solutions, LLC for information.
    • DIRECTORY
    ON THIS PAGE
      About the Site & vTour
      Navigation Basics
      Net Tips & Graphics
      Notices, Credits & Such
  • Library
  • Comprehensive Sites
  • Groups & Breeds
  • Behavior & Training
  • Health & Genetics
  • Competitive & Fun
  • Hard Workin' Dogs
  • Shelters & Advocacy
  • Clubs & Registries
  • Grab Bag!!!



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    Over several years, what began as an attempt to share some information accumulated during our own search for a family dog, has evolved into this website. While this is still something I do in my 'spare time', I do work diligently to keep the information and links current and to add an interesting, entertaining, and/or informative feature to the site each month. It is my intention that the following paragraphs will give you a 'feel' for the layout and an opportunity to directly explore some of the major sections of the website.

  • News & Alerts, which is updated daily, delivers current news and information related to urgent situations affecting dogs, and other animals, to your desktop.

  • Miscellaneous articles and links to external articles, by category, are available in the Library. Topical areas include: Getting A Dog; What Kind of Dog is Right for You; Where to Get a Dog; Preparing for Your Dog; Care & Maintenance; Breeding Your Dog; First Aid/Emergencies; Keeping Your Pet Safe/Lost & Found Pets; Special Needs and Geriatric Dogs; and, Miscellaneous. The library houses the very popular "Before You Get A Dog" and "An Introduction to Breed/Mix & Source Selection". These articles have appeared in reprint both on and off line in a number of dog related publications.

  • While I focus on events which benefit nonprofit animal welfare organizations, I welcome the posting of any event that might be of interest to the dog loving public. Additionally, there is a section of the Calendar reserved for ongoing and long term fundraisers for special causes and organizations.
    • MAJOR SECTIONS OF THE SITE
  • Comprehensive Sites with previews and links to Large Reference Sites, sites Around the World (non-US), Just for Kids! and Mutt-erly Fantastic Mutts!

  • Groups & Breeds features previewed links to over 1,500 previewed sites for over 325 individual breeds by FCI group or Alpha by Breed. Each breed section includes Breed Name and Also Known As Names, Country of Origin and Basic Info (weight, height, coat type and color), Registries with links to Breed Standards, when available, and links to sites & Rescues. As I update the breed sections, photographs are being added. Additionally, from the main breeds page links to sites covering groups of breeds that share similar traits, origins, and/or characteristics are available as well as links to directories of breed or breed group specific interactive forums.

  • A lack of training and behavioral problems can cause frustration and damage the relationship between you and your dog. Therefore, I am a strong advocate of owner-attended, puppy kindergarten and formal basic obedience training. I believe these are critical components in the development of a well-adjusted companion. Not only will your dog learn and have socialization opportunities, you will learn about dog behavior, tips and techniques for training and correction, as well as developing a local support network. You may wish to refer to the Clubs & Registries section, described below, and see if a resource is listed for your area. Additionally, there are several resources available online in the Behavior & Training section. Previews and links to the most outstanding of these sites, sites such as Mary Jo Sminkey's "DogPatch" and "Dr. Plonsky's Dog Training Website", will be found in the "Premier Sites" section of the page.

  • While the internet is helpful for doing research, it should not be used as a substitute for direct veterinary care and counsel. The Health & Genetics section of the DogInfomat is definitely not meant to replace your dog's veterinarian and should not be used for lay diagnostic or treatment purposes. But, for research purposes, there are links to articles and sites covering specific diseases and conditions with a * denoting known or suspected genetically transferred diseases. There are also sections covering Disasters, Emergencies, First Aid and Poisons with links to articles and online brochures from organizations such as the American Red Cross, FEMA, and the American Humane Association, and several sites and articles covering Seasonal Concerns, Specific Conditions & Diseases, Genetics Disease, Monitoring, and Research are reviewed and linked or hosted, as are several Veterinary Associations, Universities, Clinics and Hospitals, and large Veterinary Directories.
    NOTE: Please familiarize yourself with disaster or emergency procedures before you find yourself faced with an emergency. While there is a good deal of information available online, be sure to also discuss this with your veterinarian, directly, so that you understand his or her policies and procedures. The Health & Genetics section is not intended to be used as a substitute for direct veterinary care and counsel.

  • The Competitive & Fun section is a GREAT place to learn about many formal and informal ways to have a good time with your dog and other dog enthusiasts. The sections cover Agility, Conformation, Flyball & Flygility, Freestyle & K9 Drill Team, Frisbee, Multiple Activities, Competitive Obedience, and Travel, Outdoors & Fun.

  • Dogs have been assisting man for thousands of years. Today, dogs still provide essential and, sometimes, livesaving, services. Additionally, some of these talents are tested in trials where man and dog compete with other 'teams' or a standard of excellence. In Hard Workin' Dogs you'll meet some canines who take being "mans' best friend" quite seriously. From Draft Work: Carting, Sledding & Skijoring and Weight Pulling to Herding/Flock & Stock Guard, Hunting, Tests & Field Trials to Lure Coursing & Racing, Police & Military K9s & Contraband Detection Dogs to Ringsport(s) & Schutzhund, SAR, Tracking & Water Work to Service & Therapy and assorted other function related sports and activities, this seciton covers it all.

  • The Shelters, Humane Societies & Advocacy section is one that I care deeply about. I have great respect and admiration for those who give so much of themselves, to care for dogs in need. Additionally, Humane Societies and Shelters are great places to find a family dog. You will find hundreds of them listed in this section by geographic location. There are also links to external directories and other resources related to welfare and advocacy work, including topics such as overpopulation, puppy mills, renters advocacy, legislation issues, and other issues, projects and activities pertaining to animal welfare or advocacy.

  • There are many types of dog related Clubs & Registries throughout the world. In this section, I have included Nat'l/Int'l Registries & Affiliates by Country, Professional & Dog Owners Associations, and many local, not for profit obedience, specialized training, and kennel clubs by state/province within country. These local groups are primarily training and kennel clubs, many holding reasonably priced training classes and, other, social and educational events, open to the general public.

  • And, the last of the major sections is the place where I've put "everything else" -- the Grab Bag!!!. It is the most eclectic area of the site with sections covering Arts, Crafts & Collectibles, Famous or 'inFamous' Dogs, Large Commercial Sites, Miscellaneous & Unique Sites, Pet Loss & Remembrance, Photo & 'of the Day' type sites, Recipe Resources, and dog-related software.
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    A bit of info to help you navigate the site . . .

    This site is optimized for display resolution settings of 800 x 640 or above (I prefer 1024 x 768) and MSIE or Netscape Navigator. The principle fonts are Arial, Comic Sans MS, andale sans, and Verdana, displayed best with a browser font size setting of 11 (In MSIE, "Smaller"). These fonts, and others that are used throughout this site, are available for Windows or Macs at the Microsoft© website. The fonts available at this site are frequently used on webpages throughout the internet and can enhance the display of text in any web browser.

    The banner at the top of each page (shown below) allows visitors to move directly between the more timely sections of the site, auxiliary sites, and the site map. You can return the DogInfomat Main Page, at any time, by clicking on the site logo on the left hand side of the banner. On each page, the links in the gold section are for that section, the links in the blue section are to the major site sections.



    Additionally, on each section page there is a linked directory of the major sections of the site as well as a linked subdirectory to specific sections the page you are on. On this page, you can see these features by going     back to the top of the page. The 'directories' are located on the left hand side of this page, above the major sections index, and have a pale yellow background. Although their location and background color may vary, the basic format of these directories is consistant throughout the site.

    To return to the DogInfomat after following an external link, use your browser's "BACK" button. In some instances, where I felt it would be most convenient and/or appropriate, I have coded the links to open the sites in another window.

    ENJOY!
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    1) While I have tried to only include links to high quality and primarily, non-commercial sites, there are links to those commercial sites whose content, I believe, warranted inclusion. However, that said, I can assume no responsibility for the content of any externally linked sites. Additionally, the inclusion of any site offering direct products and services, or third party advertisements for the same, is not to be construed as an endorsement or recommendation of those products, services, individuals, businesses, or organizations. If you feel that any site, which have been included herein, contains any material which conflicts with the goals and/or standards of this site, please let me know by emailing me

    2) This electronic document is for online personal use only and is not to be copied, redistributed, retransmitted, or repurposed, in whole or in part, by electronic means or otherwise, without prior written permission. I have requested, and received, permission to publish the non-original content (i.e., images, graphics, articles, photographs, etc.) included at the DogInfomat. The only exceptions are those elements which were contained in 'public' archives. All content and/or elements remain the sole property of the owners. As such, none of the contents made available at the site are to be copied, redistributed, retransmitted, or repurposed without the prior consent of it's owners.

    3) The DogInfomat has seen quite a large increase in visitors since being featured in some popular internet directories and publications. I want to take this opportunity to thank those of you who have taken the time to let others know about the site. Additionally, many visitors have emailed me with great ideas, comments, questions, link suggestions, shelter and rescue information, etc. and your thoughts and ideas are being taken into consideration during the update and revision process.

    However, due to my current workload, I can no longer guarantee all questions submitted via email will be answered or responded to. I am focusing on this quarter's outstanding updates as well as some major revisions that are in progress.

    And, while the internet is helpful for doing research, it should not be used as a substitute for direct veterinary care. If your dog has been injured, is pregnant or pregnancy is suspected, is exhibiting symptoms of illness or injury, or you are otherwise looking for medical advice and counsel, please contact your veterinarian. If you have questions or concerns regarding your veterinarian's diagnosis, treatment, or explanation, please present them to your veterinarian directly and/or seek a second opinion from another veterinarian or specialist.

    Additionally, I receive many emails from parties who write me to ask about breeding their dog(s). I will no longer respond to these emails now, or in the future. Besides the fact that there are many dogs in need of homes already, it is my opinion that if you are writing to me, or, anyone else on the internet, for information on how to breed your dogs, how to tell if your dog is pregnant, how long after conception puppies are born, etc., you have NOT done enough research and study to even be considering breeding. And, if your dog is already pregnant, it is imparative that you consult with your veterinarian and see that your dog receives appropriate prenatal and postnatal care. If you do not, you are putting the life of your dog, as well as the lives of the unborn puppies, at great risk.

    Visitors with other questions might find answers via one of these sections:
  • Site Map
  • Before You Get A Dog
  • Training & Behavior
  • The Library
  • General Reference
  • Breeds Index
    • 4) SPAM has also become a time consuming issue for me. I am receiving a steadily increasing amount of unsolicited marketing email every day. Please remember that eMail addresses at this site are provided solely for communication with readers of the DogInfomat. Do not send unsolicited advertising, chain letters, automatic messages or other spam to this address. Abuse of these e-mail resources may result in legal action per the Federal Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991, and Collateral Code of Federal Regulations (47 CFR 64.1200). The TCPA allows a private right of action against the sender of unsolicited advertising. The recipient can sue for $500, or actual damages (whichever is greater). For more information on combating spam, visit O'Reilly & Associates' Stop Spam Website.

    5) Additionally, please do not forward virus warnings and/or chain letters to me, discussion groups, email lists, or, anyone, for that matter. One of my favorite sites for information related to virus protection, hoaxes, chain letters, and more is the US Government's CIAC Website. There is a database of real real virus information, hoax and chain letter definitions and descriptions, virus protection methods/software and links to tons more are available at this website. Check it out!

    I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere THANKS all of the people who have contributed their photos, ideas, articles, broken links, feedback and more, that has help me to continue to improve and grow the site. Also, my hat's off to all of the webmasters and webmistresses who commit numerous hours to developing and maintaining the wonderful sites that I've found, enjoyed, and included here, at the DogInfomat. Many of these sites are created, hosted and/or maintained by volunteers, students, ISPs, educational institutions, and others, who lend their time, equipment and energies to providing information, networking and tools to benefit dogs and their human companions. I have come to "know" many of these folks, (Although, they could pass me on the street unrecognized!) and it has been a pleasure to have the opportunity to "meet", learn from, and work with so many dedicated, knowledgeable, and caring individuals.

    Please remember while I, and other webmasters like myself, do our best to select quality resources, it is important that you filter any information you find online through your own verification, conformation, and authentication processes. Further, it is important that you, personally, determine it's applicability to your particular situation.

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    Boring, but important Notices and Credits:

    Although I have tried to only include links to only high quality and primarily, non-commercial sites, there are links to those commercial sites whose content, I believe, warranted inclusion. However, that said, I can assume no responsibility for the content of any externally linked sites. Additionally, the inclusion of any site offering direct products and services, or third party advertisements for the same, is not to be construed as an endorsement or recommendation of those products, services, individuals, businesses, or organizations. Further, while I have tried to verify the accuracy of information gathered from external sources, it is always best to access a variety of diverse resources to assure the accuracy of any individual information source. None of the information made available at, or via, the DogInfomat, is intended to take the place of direct professional counsel and service. For all medical and/or health related issues, please consult with your veterinarian.

    I have requested, and received, permission to publish the non-original content (i.e., images, graphics, articles, photographs, etc.) included at the DogInfomat. The only exceptions are cases in which the elements originating from sites which have specifically made these elements available for public use. All content and/or elements remain the sole property of the owners. As such, none of the contents made available at the site are to be copied, redistributed, retransmitted, or repurposed without the prior consent of it's owners.
    DogInfomat© Sandi Dremel, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997

    eMail addresses are provided solely for communication with readers of the DogInfomat. Do not send unsolicited advertising, chain letters, automatic messages or other spam to this address. Abuse of these e-mail resources may result in legal action per the Federal Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991, and Collateral Code of Federal Regulations (47 CFR 64.1200). The TCPA allows a private right of action against the sender of unsolicited advertising. The recipient can sue for $500, or actual damages (whichever is greater).

    Thanks to Alchemy Mindworks Inc Additionally, more information is available at O'Reilly & Associates' Stop Spam Website.

    MORE CREDITS
    Visit my page of Neat Stuff to find the best graphics artists on the web! Consider it a 'present' to you for reading the Welcome & About Page, for this is the only place where this link will be found! These are by far, the finest graphics sites I've found through 100's of hours of surfing.

    For great, business-related internet services, please visit Wisconsin Cyberlynk. Dedicated Leased Line Connections including Full & Fractional T1, Turn-key Connectivity Solutions, etc.
    CLSurf is the division of Cyberlynk providing residential services including standard, ISDN, DSL, etc..



    has been used for most of the graphics creation and manipulation at this site. If you want a fast, flexible, powerful, and intuitive program for your work with graphics, check this program out. Adobe Photoshop is also used, occasionally.

    Allaire Homesite and ColdFusion, Macromedia Dreamweaver and Adobe Acrobat are tools I use in the development of this and other websites.

    Utilities and other helpful programs used include E-Converter 1.50 (Freeware) by Eric J. François (used to convert FCI standard measurements to US. I don't think it is available any more, but there are several other, similar, freeware and shareware programs available through ZDNet's Downloads and Download.Com (use keyword "metric"). WS-FTP has been my FTP program of choice since I started the site over five years ago. You can learn more about it at http://www.ipswitch.com/.

    DogInfomatPlease feel free to download this logo graphic to for use with your link to the DogInfomat. Copy and paste the following tag for use with this graphic:

    <a href= "http://www.doginfomat.com/" target="_blank"><img src="linkback.gif" border=0 align="middle" alt="DogInfomat"></a>

    Your host,
    Sandi Dremel
    Thanks, Mary Jo
    Starsite Award
    Please visit Mary Jo's
    Great Website         		September 23, 1996

    March 28, 1998
    (revised edition)         		Thanks!
    Thanks!
    tara's award    		 From Arlene
    E.S.S.pecially Nice Site Award
    at the Dabble Diner
    Pick of the Litter
    June 21-27, 1999
    from NetVet, Ken Boschert, DVM, Washington University     		As mentioned in the
    AKC Gazette March 2001    		 As mentioned at the PBS "Still Life with Animated Dogs", April 2001 resources page
    Member of
     The HTML Writers Guild
    March 16 - April 14, 2001: The DogInfomat is receiving about 250,000 hits a month. 45,104 unique users from 15 different countries including the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, the Netherlands, Belgium, New Zealand, France, Mexico, Sweden, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Japan. Thank you for stopping by!
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    The DogInfomat™ est. 1994 © 1994-2005/Sandi Dremel
    The original content, concept, and design of the DogInfomat are the property of Sandi Dremel. All content submitted for inclusion remains the sole property of it's owners. As such, none of the contents made available at the site are to be copied, redistributed, retransmitted, or repurposed without the prior consent of it's owners.