The Best of
Carolina Mountain Dog
A Comprehensive Collection
of Blog Posts
from the Leading Dog Blog
in the Carolina Mountains
Barry Silverstein
Published by
Carolina Mountain Dog
Smashwords Edition
Copyright 2011, Barry Silverstein
Smashwords Edition, License Notes
This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be resold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.
CONTENTS
Dog-Friendly Cities in the Region
Helpful Information for Dog Owners
Carolina Mountain Dog (www.cmdog.com) is a "blogazine" for dog lovers who live in or near the Carolina mountains (or wish they did). Published since August 2009, the blog celebrates the unique relationship of dogs and the mountains, offering news of interest and valuable information about what to do and where to go with dogs in Western North Carolina and the South Carolina Upstate. Carolina Mountain Dog strongly advocates for humane treatment of animals, animal rights, spay/neuter, and adoption of shelter animals.
Carolina Mountain Dog is the leading dog blog in the Carolina mountains. Through November 2011, the blog had over 28,000 lifetime pageviews. From November 15, 2010 to November 15, 2011, the blog had 10,305 visits, 15,821 pageviews, and 8,232 absolute unique visitors (Google Analytics).
Carolina Mountain Dog is written by Barry Silverstein, a professional writer and dog lover.
Barry is actively involved in the Asheville, NC animal community. He conceived and launched the Buncombe County Save A Life Campaign. He provides marketing counsel to Asheville Humane Society and writes/publishes their monthly volunteer e-newsletter. He helped launch his wife’s business, Bandanas Mobile Grooming, an Asheville-based mobile dog grooming business. With his wife, Barry owns four dogs (all of them adopted from shelters or rescue organizations) and they foster animals for Asheville Humane Society on a regular basis.
Barry writes for business and marketing websites and select clients. He has also written about dogs for Dog Fancy, New Life Journal and WNC magazines. He is the author of Water’s Edge, an eBook novel that features a dog, Blackout, as the hero. He is also the author of eight non-fiction books about branding, Internet marketing and small business.
“Pooch Paths” are great dog walks and hikes.
Azalea Dog Park, Asheville
Azalea Dog Park in Asheville is a great place for your dogs to work off their energy. It features two fenced-in areas, one for smaller dogs and one for larger dogs, separated by a gate, although small and big dogs can use either area, as long as they are well-behaved.
The big dog portion is quite a large area, with plenty of room for running and playing. It has a gazebo in the center -- useful to get out of the sun, since the trees that have been planted are not yet full-grown. On the downside, there is a ravine in this area that quickly fills up with water when it snows or rains, so be prepared for a muddy experience if you go soon after wet weather.
Poop bags are generally available, but you will need to bring your own water. The dog park adjoins a pond and a small grassy area with a few picnic tables, and there are a few hiking trails close by as well.
Insider tip: One of the good things about the location of the park is its proximity to the Swannanoa River. For a nice cool-down after romping at this dog park, exit the park and look for a gated pull-in near a dumpster, immediately on your left. Down a short path is a shallow river bed and gentle rapids where doggies love to splash.
Location: Use Exit 8 off of Route 240 and follow signs for the WNC Nature Center. The park is at 395 Azalea Road, a few miles past the WNC Nature Center. Continue on Azalea Road past all the soccer fields and the dog park will be on the left.
Bent Creek Experimental Forest
Easily accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway and not far from I-26 is a true natural gem -- Bent Creek Experimental Forest. The forest is right off Brevard Road (Rt. 191) south of Asheville. It encompasses nearly 6,000 acres of forest and streams, is home to the North Carolina Arboretum, and includes the Lake Powhatan recreational area (swimming, fishing and camping).
Bent Creek is also as close as you can get to doggie heaven. There are miles and miles of trails appropriate for hiking and biking -- everything from wide former logging roads to narrow dirt paths that meander through the woods or take ambitious hikers high into the mountains. An added bonus during the summer is that many of the trails are shaded and cool.
Dogs love the smells, sounds and running creeks. While dogs should technically be on leash (and they must be leashed at Lake Powhatan), many owners seem to feel comfortable allowing their dogs to explore off-leash. If you use trails that are not near to the Lake Powhatan area, chances are you your dog can enjoy a memorable off-leash experience, as long as he or she is well-behaved and returns when called.
Tip: Hunting is allowed in Bent Creek during the fall. Don't allow your dog off-leash during hunting season, or if you do, make sure he or she is wearing a bright orange vest. Watch for a sign indicating the dates for hunting season posted near the entrance to Bent Creek, opposite the service entrance of the NC Arboretum.
There are so many trails and access points that it is difficult to recommend any one or mention them all. The best thing to do is explore on your own since trails are well-marked. You can access a Bent Creek Trail Map here: http://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/bentcreek/images/bc_trl_map_11x17_crews_opt_may_2004.pdf
You'll find that Bent Creek is especially popular (and frequently crowded) on weekends. To avoid the crowds, drive past all of the obvious entry points to Bent Creek. Go beyond the entrance to Lake Powhatan and continue on the dirt road that curves around to the right. You'll see another access area to the right, but keep driving down the dirt road, which curves to the left. Continue a mile or two and you'll find several more access points with small parking areas to the left and right. Many less-traveled trails are off this road.
Lake Powhatan
Lake Powhatan is a small lake with a sandy beach within Bent Creek Experimental Forest. The lake is a particularly great spot for the month of March because the lake and accompanying overnight camping area is closed until April 1. That means you and your doggies have the run of the place (including the beach) since cars, campers, and swimmers aren't around. You also don't have to pay any fee, which is required after the lake opens.
The lake and the surrounding roads and trails make for a great outing. You can walk, jog, or bike ride on the paved roads (it's moderately hilly but not too bad), or you can hike on the many trails near the lake and in Bent Creek. Your dog will love splashing around on the bank or running in the sand. During the off-season, many people let their dogs run free, although when the lake is open, dogs must be leashed.
The lake is easily accessible via the entrance to Bent Creek, which is right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at the North Carolina Arboretum exit, Route 191 (Brevard Road towards Asheville). Follow the signs to Bent Creek/Lake Powhatan. Go past the Hard Times Trailhead on the left (which itself is a great spot to pick up numerous trails). The road then forks and the entrance to Lake Powhatan is on the left. You can park outside the gate to the right and walk up the hill. Follow the signs for swimming and fishing to get to the lake. Walking around the empty campground, which is largely shaded, is also a nice stroll. During the off-season, the gates are closed to vehicles but foot traffic is allowed.
In the Bent Creek Forest itself, there are several parking areas where you can access trails. The first area, a right turn at a small brown sign that says “491” off the road to Bent Creek, offers access to what looks like an access road but is closed to traffic, as well as a nice trail that goes through the woods past a creek. The second area, a left turn at the Hard Times Trailhead, is the busiest – this is where many trails begin, including a trail that goes around Lake Powhatan. There are additional trails surrounding Lake Powhatan and to the right of the lake.
Directions: From I-26, take exit 33 (Old Exit 2), south approximately 2 miles on N.C. R 191 to the Lake Powhatan Recreation Area sign. Turn right and follow signs to campground. Also accessible from the Route 191 exit off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Biltmore, Asheville
The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina is one of the country's national treasures. It's also a naturally beautiful and protected walking, hiking, and biking paradise for dogs and their owners. George Vanderbilt, who built the magnificent structure, was a dog lover, and the estate carries on his tradition by welcoming leashed dogs onto the property (but not in the house). There are numerous trails of varying difficulty that lend themselves to hours and hours of walking, hiking, and biking.
The downside is that one must pay the full $65 daily admission price to use the facilities. However, a smart alternative for anyone who is within reasonable driving distance is to purchase a Twelve-Month Pass. The passholder is able to gain unlimited entry to the estate at any time of year for $105 annually. Passholders are also entitled to other benefits, such as priority dining reservations and discounts at estate stores. A few visits with your dog will make the pass worth the price, so it's something you should consider.
For basic walking or biking with your dog, the best place on the Biltmore Estate is probably the area surrounding and adjacent to Antler Hill Village and the winery. Park near the winery and pick up the paved trail that leads to the duck pond. It is a beautiful flat trail that meanders along the French Broad River and winds up at a duck pond where your doggie will love watching the ever-present geese. An added bonus is that you can return to the just-opened Antler Hill Village, where you'll find Cedric's Tavern, named after one of George Vanderbilt's beloved dogs, and a Creamery, which serves outstanding ice cream. Both eateries have outdoor seating and dogs are permitted to sit beside you while you enjoy lunch, dinner, or a treat.
Another great area for a walk is behind the house itself. Drive past the house and park in the lot for "A Gardener's Place," the plant and gift shop located near the greenhouse. Then cross the road to the Azalea Gardens. You'll find a wonderful paved path that winds through these gardens (the azaleas are spectacular in season) and eventually leads to a pond and waterfall. It's a memorable walk.
There are many more trails on the property, including some for serious hiking. Just ask for a trail map and follow whichever ones appeal to you. You could easily spend a day adventuring with your dog. Right now is a great time to visit because it's Biltmore's annual Festival of Flowers.
For more information and directions, visit: www.biltmore.com.
Carl Sandburg Home, Flat Rock
Carl Sandburg and his wife Lilian owned a 245-acre farm named Connemara in Flat Rock, NC, a few miles from Hendersonville. Carl was one of America's greatest writers, and Lilian achieved world fame for raising award-winning goats. Mrs. Sandburg sold the house and land to the National Park Service after her husband's death. The Park Service designated it as a National Historic Site and conducts tours of the home.
Little known except to locals, however, is the fact that the site is a naturally beautiful hiking paradise and admission is free. The grounds feature everything from an easy stroll around picturesque Front Lake, to a moderate hike to Little Glassy Mountain, to a more adventurous hike up the Glassy Trail to Glassy Mountain. Most trails pass through unspoiled forest and it isn't suprising to have a trail all to yourself. Dogs are permitted on leash.
The Sandburg farm is truly a hidden gem for a hike with your dog. Chances are your four-legged friend will also be intrigued by the goats kept in the barn area, as well as by the resident cat. Trails can be accessed from the field across from the barn and from Front Lake.
Directions: The farm is located three miles south of Hendersonville, NC on Little River Road off of the Greenville Highway/Rt. 225 in Flat Rock, NC.
From Interstate 26 take exit 53 (formerly exit 22) - from I-26 east, turn right onto Upward Road; from I-26 west, turn left onto Upward Road. At intersection with Rt. 176/Spartanburg Hwy, continue straight. Upward Road turns into Highland Lake Road. At the light, turn left onto Rt.225/Greenville Hwy south. At next light take a right onto Little River Road. Visitor parking on left.
Carrier Park and French Broad River Park, Asheville
The city of Asheville has some great venues for dog lovers. Two of them, Carrier Park and French Broad River Park, are along Amboy Road, close to each other, and include enough tree-lined paths by the French Broad River to make for a whole morning or afternoon of walking or biking with your four-legged friend.
Carrier Park attracts more of a crowd because of its facilities, but gently rolling paved and bark-mulched paths to the left of the picnic shelter lead away from the busy section, towards French Broad River Park. Walk along the sidewalk to reach the less populated area, and you'll notice a sign indicating the future home of "Karen Cragnolin Park." This is part of the ambitious "Wilma Dykeman Riverway Plan," named for a local writer/conservationist, and sponsored by the visionary organization, RiverLink. The plan calls for the eventual formation of a 17-mile continuous greenway linking the French Broad and Swannanoa Rivers. It's an exciting and bold concept that encourages recreational use of the city's waterways.
French Broad River Park, beyond Carrier Park and to the left off Amboy Road, is a walker's delight. It has the added benefit of a fenced, 1-acre dog park on the premises. (However, there's a newer and larger dog park on the other side of town called the Azalea Road Dog Park, near the WNC Nature Center and not far from the Bleachery Boulevard shopping area.)
Walk or ride along the paths at either Carrier Park or French Broad River Park, stop to look at the water, and take time for you and your dog enjoy what Asheville has to offer.
Located off Amboy Road in Asheville.
Fletcher Community Park, Fletcher
There are lots of community parks, so what makes Fletcher Community Park worthy of selection as a Pooch Path? One word: FLAT! Well actually, it's more than that. Yes, this park is very flat, but it also has excellent facilities and natural beauty. And it's a great place for a dog walk or a bike ride with your dog.
Fletcher Community Park has a large central "campus" with a paved trail all around it that makes for easy walking or a great bike riding path. It also has a crushed stone path running along Cane Creek that is very picturesque. Follow the bark mulch path from the stone path (behind all the parking lots) and there is a great spot to take your dog down into the water. It's right before a small bridge that passes over the creek. Go over the bridge and you'll come to a big open field (again flat) that provides another walking/biking trail. This is part of the "Fletcher Park Greenway." This flat, paved trail, partially in the shade, is perfect for walking and hiking. You can reach the path by taking the trail to the right of the parking lots as you enter the park. This trail leads over a small bridge. You'll see a large field ahead of you. Take the left path and you can follow the greenway path a few miles until the pavement ends. The path on the right is also flat but it is unpaved.
Fletcher Community Park also has restrooms and picnic tables. It is conveniently located off Hendersonville Road in Fletcher.
Directions: Coming from Asheville, make a left off of Hendersonville Road onto Howard Gap Road (at the light just before the Blue Sky Cafe). The park will be on your left.
Mt. Pisgah, Blue Ridge Parkway
Mt. Pisgah is a delightful destination on a warm summer day, because of its cool temperatures, but it is equally beautiful during the spring and fall.
There are several areas your dogs will love. For a moderate hike, try the Buck Spring Gap trail, about 1.5 miles one way, which goes from the Buck Spring Gap Overlook parking area to the Pisgah Inn. There are marvelous views both at the overlook and the Inn. Interesting note: On this trail you'll see a marker and part of the original foundation of George Vanderbilt's mountain hunting lodge. You'll find it hard to imagine that he trekked all the way from the Biltmore Estate to get here! (Of course, he had a lot of help.) The present-day Shut-In Trail generally follows the same path along the Blue Ridge up to the lodge site.
There are numerous other hiking trails near Mt. Pisgah, but the most adventurous is the hike up Mt. Pisgah itself.
Our doggies particularly loved the nearby Mt. Pisgah picnic grove, accessible from its own parking lot. It is a lovely, large wooded area with picnic tables, outdoor grills, and restrooms. We brought tie-outs, hooked them around a table, and let the dogs enjoy their bones while we enjoyed our lunch. What a great spot!
Location: Mt. Pisgah is on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Mile Post 407, south of Asheville.
North Carolina Arboretum, Asheville
Consider taking a walk, hike, or bike ride with your dog on the grounds of the North Carolina Arboretum.
This exceptional facility has 10 miles of well-groomed trails. You can take an easy bike ride or walk along wide roads, or hike past the cooling waters of Bent Creek. Take the shaded Natural Garden Trail and see many kinds of vegetation. The Bent Creek Trail, a combination of open road and shaded creekside trail, passes by the National Azalea Repository -- a real treat in the spring. Try the Carolina Mountain Trail for a little bit of relatively easy mountain hiking. The lower part of the trail enters a very shady sanctuary where your dog will love splashing in the water right alongside the trail. Dogs must be leashed.
Pooch Pick: Enter the Arboretum at the main entrance. Make an immediate left into a parking area. Take the path with the bark mulch (Bent Creek Trail) until it meets up with the wide road. Stay on the road until you reach the three signs about creek restoration, shortly after the Azalea Repository. Right after the signs, go left down the hill to the creek. Doggies love this area. Seems like it was made just for them. They enjoy wading in and lapping up the cold clear water -- and the grass is tasty, too!
Directions: The entrance to the NC Arboretum is directly off the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile marker 393 (I-26 and Hwy 191). Admission is $6 per vehicle, free on Tuesdays. (Become a member and admission is always free.) There are many additional hiking trails, along with Lake Powhatan, in the Bent Creek Experimental Forest adjacent to the Arboretum.
Pisgah National Forest, Brevard
If splashing in shallow water, hiking shaded mountain trails, and watching the rush of natural waterfalls excites you and your pooch, then the Brevard side of the Pisgah National Forest is the Pooch Path for you. Right at the entrance to the Pisgah National Forest on US 276, up a ways on the left, you'll find the shallow, gently running, cool water of the Davidson River, where doggies love to play.
All along US 276 are additional opportunities for fun, including the Visitor Center/Ranger Station, where you'll find a nature trail and exercise trail. Stop in to get trail maps. Then there's the Davidson River Campground, with hookups, trails, and fishing streams, the Sycamore Flats picnic area along the river, and the Coontree picnic area. At Coontree, cross a shallow stream and you'll find a secluded area with cliffs where you're likely to find jumpers splashing into the pool of water below.
Continue further up US 276 and you'll reach Looking Glass Falls, right off the highway. You can take a stairway down to the falls and even swim at its base, but be careful -- the rocks are slippery. It's also a short ride to Sliding Rock, a natural formation that acts as a water slide. You and your fur-pal can have fun watching both kids and adults taking the plunge, and you can wade in the water near the bottom of the slide.
You could spend many happy hours splashing and hiking just along this route, without even venturing further in the Pisgah National Forest. And on your way out, be sure to make a stop at Dolly's Ice Cream (on the left as you're leaving the Pisgah National Forest). Get yourself one of their incredible flavors, and treat the pooch to a vanilla soft-serve!
Warren Wilson College, Swannanoa
Asheville is home to many wonderful outdoor adventures and, increasingly, the city is becoming nationally known as one of the most green and most eco-friendly. At the heart of the environmental movement is Warren Wilson College, a small liberal arts school ten miles east of Asheville in Swannanoa. Warren Wilson is highly rated for its outdoor life and being green; for example, Outside magazine ranks the college fourth on its Top 40, noting the following:
"Warren Wilson is one of the most earth-friendly colleges on the planet. ... Hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders don't even have to leave the 1,200-acre campus, as more than 25 miles of trails cut through the grounds. Warren Wilson's environmental studies program is the biggest on campus, and students can choose between sustainable agriculture, conservation biology, environmental policy, environmental education, and sustainable forestry."
Those trails Outside refers to are open to the public and they are definitely dog-friendly (on-leash). The River Trail, for example, runs alongside the Swannanoa Rover, oops, that is, River! Typically, only locals know about these trails -- but now you do, too. Warren Wilson's trails definitely qualify as a Pooch Path adventure. Access the trails from the campus.
Directions from Asheville: Take I-240 E to I-40 E to Exit 55. Turn left off exit to Tunnel Rd./US 70. Turn right for 2 miles on US 70 E to the first stop light. Turn left at light onto Warren Wilson Rd. Go about 1.5 miles to parking on left at the river.
For more information about Warren Wilson College:
Looking for a cool dog-oriented day trip? Then you should do some Canine Cruisin’.
Cleveland Park, Greenville, SC
During cooler temperatures, the temperate climate of the Upstate is particularly enjoyable. For a great dog-friendly destination, cruise over to Cleveland Park, a 122-acre park set alongside the Reedy River and close to downtown Greenville.
First let your dog work off some energy at The Canine Corner at Cleveland Park, located right across from the Cleveland Park Animal Hospital on Woodland Way. This enclosed off-leash dog park is a sloping bark-mulched area with swings, benches, some shady areas, and a combination human/doggie water fountain. Then take a leisurely leashed walk (or bike ride) along one of the numerous flat paths in the park. Some wind their way parallel to the river.
This is a great fall and winter spot in a city that welcomes dogs.
Information about Greenville parks and trails: http://www.greenvillesc.gov/ParksRec/Trails/default.aspx
Cashiers, NC
Cashiers is one of those places you and your dog won't easily forget. While it is about 1-1/2 hours southwest of Asheville, its elevation is higher -- 3500 feet -- and that makes it considerably cooler. This charming, quaint, upscale town has both mountains and lakes -- the smaller Cashiers Lake and the larger Lake Glenville, where you'll find pet-friendly rentals (check out the lakeview cottage or cabin at www.sugarbearlodge.com, for example) and water sports of all kinds, including kayaks and pontoon boats for rent. There are a number of public boat launches and low spots where your dog can paddle around -- take Pine Creek Road off of Route 107 in Glenville to reach them.
Cashiers is a worthy destination for its shops and restaurants, but there are some notable spots that are great for your pup, too. There is the Woof Gang Bakery on Pillar Drive, just off the center of town, where you can lavish your dog with baked treats, natural foods, and plenty of boutique and accessory items. Also in the center of town, at the intersection of Routes 107 and 64, is the Village Green -- a beautiful 12-acre park with flat walking trails, including one that wanders through natural wooded forest. The park features sculptures, a gazebo, a chldren's playground, a picnic area, and more.
Half an hour away, and at an even higher elevation, is Highlands -- worth the trip if you like a winding road leading to tony shops along a busy main drag. (You'll find a pet store called Whiskers there too.)
Additional information about Cashiers:
http://www.gocashiers.com/
http://www.cashiersnorthcarolina.com/
Craggy Gardens, Blue Ridge Parkway
Craggy Gardens is one of those unforgettable spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway that reminds you why you're so lucky to live in the Carolina mountains. This special area is a perfect excursion for you and your dog during the hot summer months because its altitude means temperatures as much as 15 degrees cooler than in the city.
In addition to the cool mountain air, you'll be treated to some memorable vistas, as well as spectacular rhododendron and fire azaleas. (Note, however, that they are past peak right now.) There's a beautiful picnic area where your dogs can hang out for awhile. From the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center, you can pick up several trails. Just slightly north beyond the Visitor Center you can find Craggy Pinnacle trail, just 1-1/2 miles round trip. This is a great one to try. It will lead your through a rhododendron tunnel to a great mountaintop view and you'll see plenty of vegetation along the way. This is a prime spot for a dog hike!
Location: Mile Post 364 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, about 25 miles north of Asheville.
DuPont State Forest, Brevard
DuPont State Forest, located between Hendersonville and Brevard, NC, is a hiker, biker, and dog owner's paradise. This 10,000-acre forest has numerous outstanding trails (some of the best mountain biking trails anywhere), waterfalls, lakes, and dense, cool forest. It definitely qualifies as a premier Canine Cruisin' destination.
DuPont's most visited attractions are its waterfalls. There are six different falls, Triple Falls, High Falls, Hooker Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Wintergreen Falls, and Grassy Creek Falls. Each one has its own unique qualities. For a description of each, visit: http://www.dupontforest.com/attractions.asp
The falls are accessible from two parking areas, the Hooker Falls Access Area, and the Buck Forest Access Area, which has access to the high falls. If you park at the Hooker Falls area, you can walk all the way up a path and see several of the falls.
In addition to waterfalls, there are other natural attributes of DuPont State Forest that make great destinations for you and your doggie.
Consider, for example, that there are some 90 miles of trails and dirt roads of varying difficulty, so you can hike to your heart's content. Then there are several other water features, aside from the falls, that make for enjoyable and refreshing visits.
Fawn Lake is one such destination. This lovely lake is hidden away in an access area beyond the falls, so it attracts less attention and therefore less crowds. Fawn lake has a small grassy area and sand sloping down to the water's edge, plus a short wooden dock that swimmers use for diving. The lake is very dog-friendly; in fact, no one seems to mind dogs being off-leash. Your dog will love frolicking in the shallow, warm water near shore or chasing a ball or stick further out. Be aware, however, that there is no shade, so come prepared with sunscreen, hats, etc.
Another interesting place to take your dog is Corn Mill Shoals, which is on the way from DuPont State Forest to Fawn Lake. Corn Mill Shoals features a slippery but inviting shallow swimming area on the Little River.
Finally, try Lake Imaging if you're looking for a quiet spot for a picnic. It's a pond-sized lake with a covered picnic pavilion, located in its own access area, just before the Hooker Falls access area.
For driving directions, go to: www.dupontforest.com/directions.asp
Furman Lake, Greenville, SC
If you’re looking for an idyllic stroll with your dog in the Upstate, there’s none better than Furman Lake, located on the campus of Furman University. The trail meanders about 1-1/4 miles around a small lake and offers shade and lovely views of the picturesque clock tower and campus. Take a picnic lunch and make it an outing.
There are other trails on campus as well, including a two-mile trail behind the lake that goes through the woods, and a portion of an eleven mile trail that stretches from downtown Greenville to Travelers Rest.
The lake and trails are open to the public, but dogs should be on leash – and please remember to pick up after your dog.
Directions: Take I-26 to Hendersonville, N.C., then US 25 South. In Travelers Rest, bear left onto US 276 to Greenville, just past the Hampton Inn. Stay on US 276 one mile to the Furman exit.
Lake James State Park, NC
If you're looking for a dog-friendly escape that combines both trails and the splendor of a large lake, give Lake James State Park a try. An easy 45 minutes or so east of Asheville on Route 40, Lake James is over 6,500 acres with more than 150 miles of shoreline.
Lake James features boating and swimming, but it is surrounded by a state park that also includes four hiking trails appropriate for leashed walks. Two of the trails extend out to overlooks so you can get a great view of the lake. Sandy Cliff Overlook Trail is just half a mile and Lake Channel Overlook Trail is 1.5 miles. Fox Den Loop Trail is 2.2 miles. All of these trails are considered moderate. Fishing Pier Trail, at .3 mile, is easy.
Directions to Lake James State Park: http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/laja/directions.php
State park map: http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/laja/pics/parkmap.pdf
Lake Jocassee, Devils Fork State Park, SC
Lake Jocassee, South Carolina is a great doggy destination that's easy to reach from anywhere in the Carolina mountain region. This 7,500-acre man-made reservoir is virtually undeveloped. Its clear, calm waters and gentle mountains make you feel like you're looking out at a Caribbean vista.
The Devils Fork State Park features nature and hiking trails and an excellent campground with full hookups and beach access. Fishing, picnicking, and boating are just some of the activities you can enjoy there.
We stayed at the campground with our dogs and were able to walk right down to the beach. They loved splashing in the water and running along the beach, which has both rocks and sand. We also drove over to a separate boat ramp area (not the primary boat ramp) that featured rocks that you could climb down to a small sandy beach. The dogs loved exploring the shoreline.
Lake Jocassee is a great day trip or a multi-day camping excursion.
Directions: Access the lake by going to Devils Fork State Park in Salem, SC via the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway (SC 11).
Max Patch, NC
If you're looking for a little piece of heaven for both you and your doggie, cruise on up to Max Patch. True, it's in the middle of nowhere, close to the Tennessee border, a little more than an hour northwest of Asheville, NC. And as you drive up about seven miles of gravel-packed, winding road to reach Max Patch, you'll be thinking "This better be good."
It's worth it. Max Patch is a bald about 4200 feet high, and the road gets you pretty close to the top. A short hike and you reach a flat, open area that is breathtaking, to say the least. You'll love the 360-degree panoramic views. You'll feel as if you're on top of the world. Your dog will love cavorting on the large grassy hillsides. No one seems to mind well-behaved off-leash dogs up there. It'll be easy to spot your buddy from most any vantage point.
File this one away for a lovely spring day or, better yet, make it an outing on a hot summer day. The cool breezes and spectacular locale are guaranteed to help you chill out.
Directions: You can reach Max Patch off Route 40 West (Exit 7), right off the exit onto the unpaved road, or you can wind your way through Hot Springs to get there.
Montreat, NC
Montreat is a tiny, secluded town north of Black Mountain that is home to Montreat College and the Montreat Conference Center, which is surrounded by 2,500 acres of unspoiled wilderness. Montreat is a dog lover's paradise because it is an ideal destination for either a casual walk or a serious hike. There are numerous trails, many of which run alongside rushing creeks, set amidst dense trees in the mountains. If you're looking for a spot that gets you close to nature and elevates your spirits, Montreat is it.
While Montreat is typically a spring and summer destination, it is less crowded in the fall and winter. It is cool year-round, so dress appropriately.
For an easy, flat trail that runs alongside a creek, go through the Montreat stone gate and enter the gravel parking lot immediately on your right. There you'll find a memorial garden and a good walking trail that's shaded and cool and has plenty of opportunities for your dog to go into the rushing water of the creek.
For more vigorous hiking, go all the way up Assembly Drive until it becomes Grayhead Trail. Continue to the end until you reach the Trailhead. There are a number of trails there that lead through the forests, some more challenging than others.
You can find a link to a trail map and detailed trail descriptions on the Montreat Conference Center's website at: http://www.montreat.org/programs/wilderness.
Directions: I-240 East to I-40 East to Exit 64 (NC9) to Black Mountain/Montreat. Left at NC 9 North/State Road 2500. Continue onto Assembly Drive.
Moses Cone Park, Julian Price Park, Boone, NC
If you're thinking of taking a Fall color excursion, take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway and head towards Mile Post 294, near Blowing Rock, NC. That's where you'll find an outstanding doggie destination: the Moses Cone Memorial Park. On 3500 acres of grounds sits a mansion with a breath-taking view, surrounded by 25 miles of carriage trails which are used for horse trail rides, but the trails are also very walkable. (The mansion is now a crafts center run by the Southern Highland Crafts Guild.)
Down below the mansion is the picturesque Bass Lake, which can be reached from Rt. 221 south, right outside of Blowing Rock. Bass Lake has a wonderful flat paved trail all around it, so it makes for an ideal walk or jog with your dog. In the Fall, the lake is surrounded by red, orange, and yellow, and it is quite spectacular to look up the mountain at the white mansion, set off by the vivid autumn colors. Carriage trails loop around the lake for longer hiking opportunities.
It's hard to believe, but there is another wonderful park just minutes away from Moses Cone, Julian Price Park, also accessible off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here, too, you'll find a lake with a trail around it. It is more rustic and uneven than the one around Bass Lake, though, so wear good hiking shoes or boots for this one. Julian Price Park is no slouch for recreational activities, either: It offers 3900 acres with hiking trails, picnic areas, campgrounds, trout fishing, and boat rental.
One or both of these parks make an outing you and your doggie will not soon forget. You could easily spend a day or more doing these two parks. When you tire of the natural beauty, you can always head into the quaint town of Blowing Rock, where numerous shops, galleries and restaurants await you.
Location: Moses Cone Park is at Milepost 294 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Mt. Mitchell, NC
If you're looking for a cool (sometimes even cold) spot to take your dog, Mt. Mitchell's the place. It's a perfect destination on a hot summer day, and just as delightful during the fall.
Just under 6700 feet high, yet easily reachable via car, Mt. Mitchell offers spectacular views and temperatures at least 10 degrees, and sometimes as much as 20 degrees, cooler than Asheville.
Mt. Mitchell is in Yancey County, 33 miles north of Asheville, accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway (mile marker # 355). Off the Blue Ridge, turn left on NC 128, which leads to Mt. Mitchell State Park. You can drive to the top of Mt. Mitchell and walk your dogs a relatively short way to get to the observation deck (see photo). There's a restaurant at the park, but the shady picnic area is a better bet for dogs. There are a number of hiking trails in the park as well.
Additional information about Mt. Mitchell:
http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/momi/main.php
http://www.romanticasheville.com/mtmitchell.htm
Rutherfordton, NC
Rutherfordton, NC is a first-class doggy destination for several good reasons.
First, right in Rutherfordton, you'll find a kind of canine camping nirvana for your dog called Four Paws Kingdom. This first-class campground is dedicated to dogs -- really! Four Paws Kingdom is a 30-plus acre site that features a large fenced off-leash dog park, a fenced off-leash agility fun playground, a fenced off-leash small dog play area, a fenced off-leash area with a creek, and a fenced off-leash doggy swimming pond. Plus there are twenty acres of on-leash nature trails, clean private restrooms/showers, over 40 RV sites with full hook-ups, and even dog-friendly on-site trailers and cabins you can rent.
Owners Meik and Birgit Bartoschek are exceptional hosts who throw many parties and cook gourmet meals for their guests. Schroeder and Lucy (see photo) are the resident greeters. The Four Paws camping season runs through December, so check them out at www.4pawskindgom.com.
Two more reasons the area rocks for dogs are Chimney Rock State Park and Lake Lure, both of which are within 30 minutes of Rutherfordton.
Chimney Rock welcomes on-leash dogs. It has natural beauty and hiking trails galore perfect for hours of fun. Chimney Rock holds a special "Bark in the Park" every year in the Spring that welcomes dogs and features special demonstrations. Past years have included agility and guide dogs. To learn more about Chimney Rock, go to www.chimneyrockpark.com.
Lake Lure is a stunning lake with a marina, beach area, boardwalk, and lake tours. While dogs are not allowed in all areas, you can take a refreshing on-leash walk and get a great view of the lake as a cool-down after your Chimney Rock excursion (or as a leisurely alternative to hiking in Chimney Rock). Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are worth the visit -- and Four Paws Kingdom makes a great base of operations in the Rutherfordton area.
SC Botanical Garden, Clemson, SC
Before the heat of summer sets in, why not take an excursion to a beautiful dog-friendly place in the Upstate where there are miles of nature trails and woodland hikes?
Pay a visit with your pooch to the 295-acre South Carolina Botanical Garden at Clemson University in Clemson, SC, where on-leash dogs are welcome. You can choose from the Belser Native Wildflower Trail through the Woodland Wildflower Garden, where you'll see plenty of native wildflowers that bloom starting in early spring, or the Heusel Nature Trail, located in the oak-hickory forest beyond the Arboretum. There are other trails along Hunnicutt Creek, which connect natural areas of the Garden and offer meadow vistas. The Arboretum loop road is another popular walk.
The South Carolina Botanical Garden is open every day, dawn to dusk, and admission is free.
Maps of the Garden: http://www.clemson.edu/public/scbg/visiting/maps.html
More information about visiting: http://www.clemson.edu/public/scbg/visiting/index.html
Six Wags of Greer, SC
If you live in or are traveling to the Upstate, you'll find a place near Greer where your dog can play all day. "Six Wags of Greer" is a privately-run dog park that features 3 very large fenced in play areas for small, medium, and large dogs -- complete with benches, toys, shade, and a running creek. It also includes two separate play areas for dogs that might do better playing alone, and one of those areas is outfitted with agility equipment.
You pay $5 for an "all-day pass" for your first dog, and $2 for each additional dog. It's a bargain even for a few hours of fun. The park is well-maintained and open 7 days a week from 7 AM to 8 PM. If no one's at the small shack on the property, just leave your money in the mail slot.
Directions: Six Wags of Greer is located on Highway 14, between Landrum and Greer, about 4 miles beyond the intersection of Highway 11 and Highway 14, heading towards Greer. The park will be on your right.
Waynesville and Lake Junaluska, NC
Waynesville and nearby Lake Junaluska make a great excursion for you and your dog. You'll be able to walk, jog, or bike on the Waynesville greenway -- a flat trail that runs over 5 miles through parts of Waynesville, some of it beside Richland Creek, and then to Lake Junaluska, continuing along one side of the lake.
Lake Junaluska, a retreat and conference center run by the United Methodist Church, is picturesque and peaceful. It is open to public use. There is a lovely trail, about 2-1/2 miles, that encircles the lake, and another walking trail of almost 4 miles that passes many of the buildings.
In Waynesville, let your dog off leash at the Pepsi Dog Park, located on Vance Street, not far from the Waynesville Recreation Center. The dog park is divided into two grassy areas, one for large dogs, and one for small dogs. It's a modest size but sufficient for some good playtime. After you drain your dog's energy, take a stroll down Waynesville's main street, where you'll find many interesting shops and several good restaurants.
Directions to Waynesville: I-40 West, right at US 74-W (US 19/23/64 to Clyde/Waynesville. Take Exit 102, US 276 towards Waynesville. Right onto US 276 S, right at North Main Street into Waynesville.
DOG-FRIENDLY CITIES IN THE REGION
Black Mountain, NC
Black Mountain is a charming, laid back town east of Asheville, right off Route 40. It's also remarkably dog friendly.
In Black Mountain, you'll find a small but nicely appointed off-leash dog park at the River Walk Park. It is a fenced-in, bark mulched area with shaded seating for owners and a water spigot for dogs. There is also a plastic doggie pool for splashing and cool-downs. It's known primarily to locals but anyone can use it. Just head for the Bi-Lo shopping center on NC 9, going south out of Black Mountain. Go around the back and to the left of Bi-Lo and you'll see a parking area and the entrance to the dog park.
Another great dog-friendly spot is Lake Tomahawk Park. It's located at 401 S. Laurel Circle Drive, not far from the center of town. This lovely lake has a half-mile flat path all the way around it, perfect for a low-impact walk with your pal (on-leash, please).
While in Black Mountain, be sure to visit Bone-A-Fide Bakery in the heart of town at Cherry Street Square. The bakery features homemade treats and doggie birthday cakes, as well as dog food, soaps and shampoos, collars and leashes, doggie clothing, and gifts. Bone-A-Fide is open Monday 1-6 PM, Tuesday through Saturday 11 AM - 6 PM, and Sunday 1 - 5 PM.
Greenville, SC
Greenville, SC is a dog-friendly city, worthy of a visit with your pooch.
Dogs can go off-leash at Canine Corner at Cleveland Park, a fenced, mulched dog park on Woodland Way in Greenville. For leashed walks, try Falls Park in downtown Greenville (pictured here), right along the Reedy River. It features waterfalls, gardens, and the beautiful Liberty Bridge. For ambitious excursions, there's the Greenville Hospital System Swamp Rabbit Tram Trail. It's more than 13 miles long and goes from Travelers Rest to Greenville, running along the Reedy River.
Many Greenville restaurants welcome dogs in the outdoor seating areas. If you're looking for special treats just for Fido (baked gourmet goodies as well as boutique items), head over to The Barkery Bistro, 118 North Main Street.
For lake recreation, Paris Mountain State Park is just four miles away from the city. Paris Mountain features 15-acre Lake Placid, hiking trails, and picnic and camping areas.
And if you're from the area and looking to adopt a pet in the Greenville area, don't forget about the Greenville Humane Society.
Knoxville, Tennessee
Dogwood Park in Knoxville, Tennessee is considered one of the South's "5 Best Dog Parks," according to the May 2010 issue of Southern Living. The magazine says:
"Puppies are not overlooked here with a playground (constructed especially for little legs) that features a tunnel, puppy jump, and inclined hill. Once your pooch is thoroughly worn out, he or she can drink up at a water fountain designed just for dogs. It's part of larger Victor Ashe Park, a 115-acre area that also includes a disc golf course, a children's playground, soccer fields, fishing, a 1.5-mile cross-country trail, and a paved greenway for biking or jogging."
Directions from I-40: From I-40, take the I-640 exit #385; take the Western Ave. West; head west on Western Ave; turn right onto Ballcamp Pk. at the Wendy's; turn right onto Bradshaw Rd; park will be on the left
Articles are alphabetical by title.
Bike Riding with Your Dog
For a fun way to exercise yourself and your dog, consider a bike ride. It's an especially good activity during the Fall months. But keep in mind that your dog probably has no idea what a bike is, or what it does. That's why at least one training session is essential before you take off.
We trained our 9-year old black lab mix and our 6-year old cattle dog mix in an afternoon. These basic steps will get you started. (The following steps assume you are interested in a leashed ride on a flat surface. If you are planning to do mountain biking, your dog should not be leashed. He must be able to follow voice commands and stay near you.)
1. Orient your dog to the bike. Walk the bike and your dog on a loose leash until the dog becomes accustomed to walking beside the bike. Make a few turns and go in circles a few times so the dog has to follow you.
2. Get on the bike in a flat, protected area with little or no traffic. Keep your dog loosely leashed on the side most comfortable for you. Have your dog sit before you begin. Start riding very slowly and gently pull your dog to follow. Provide plenty of leash but keep your dog at your side or slightly behind you.
3. Keep riding very slowly and make some turns. See if your dog follows you. Use voice commands that your dog understands to control his movement as needed.
4. Gradually increase your speed. Your dog should keep up. If the dog moves ahead of the bike, gently pull him back and use a voice command such as "easy" so he knows to stay by your side. Be alert. If your dog starts to go in a different direction and you can't correct him, drop the leash, stop your bike, and start over again with your dog sitting by your side.
5. Bike ride frequently so your dog gets used to it. Be sure to bring water and don't over-work your dog.
TIP: Look for flat, wide paved areas with minimal traffic to bike ride with your dog. Rail trails or greenways, such as the Boone, NC greenway and the Fletcher, NC greenway (in the Fletcher Community Park) are ideal places for bike riding.
Black Dog Syndrome
Do you own a black dog? Good for you!
The fact is black dogs (and cats) are often overlooked at animal shelters. It's a phenomenon called "Black Dog Syndrome." There are a number of reasons for this -- everything from superstition (they are thought to be bad luck), to the irrational fear that black dogs are more aggressive (not true), to the fact that black dogs don't "show" well because they don't reflect light and their eyes are harder to see (that is true). As an aside, we have a black lab mix that we adopted from an animal rescue organization many years ago. She is without a doubt the sweetest, gentlest dog we've ever owned.
Help your local animal shelter or rescue organization out by spreading the word that black animals get a bad rap. In fact, animal rescue organizations now have to use special marketing tactics to get people interested in black dogs and cats.
For more information about the myths and realities associated with black dogs, visit http://www.blackpearldogs.com/, a website that celebrates "the black pearls of the dog world."
Cancer in Dogs
In more remarkable evidence of dogs tracking humans in terms of disease, dogs now get cancer at about the same rate as humans. Cancer is the cause of almost half of all deaths in pets over 10 years in age.
As in humans, there are many different kinds of cancer that affect dogs. Some of the more common ones, according to PetPlace.com, include skin cancer, lymphoma, mammary gland tumors, abdominal tumors, and testicular tumors.
The following warning signs, says PetPlace, could indicate cancer, so you should schedule a visit with your dog's vet if any of them appear:
Any lump or mass that appears to be increasing in size
Any sore that does not heal
Change in bowel or bladder habits
Difficulty urinating or defecating
Unexplained bleeding or discharge from any body opening
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Difficulty breathing
Persistent lameness or stiffness
Offensive odor
Difficulty eating or swallowing.
Can Dogs and Humans Share Infectious Diseases?
The transfer of diseases between dogs and humans has been rare if not non-existent, but now MRSA, a drug-resistant germ that used to infect only humans, seems to be moving from human to dog and vice versa, according to an article in The New York Times. MRSA has typically been a problem in hospitals and other health care environments.
Some recent scientific studies have suggested "a strong link" between pets and humans when it comes to MRSA. "There are a number of papers coming out now showing that pets pick up MRSA from us," says Dr. Elizabeth Scott of Simmons College in Boston.
The best precaution, according to experts, is "frequent washing or sanitizing of hands before and after playing with a pet." Infectious disease specialist Dr. Richard Oehler "recommends hand washing or using hand gels before and after playing with a pet, not letting a pet lick people around the face, and not washing pet food or water bowls in the same sink that food is prepared. People should also wear gloves when attending to pets that have open wounds, he said, and should keep any of their own broken skin bandaged."
Dr. J. Scott Weese, a veterinary microbiologist thinks transmission is rare. "In the grand scheme of things with MRSA, pets are a pretty minor thing," he says. But given the close relationship humans have with companion animals, it pays to be careful. Says Dr. Weese, "If they're a minor component of a major disease, that's still something we need to be aware of."
Can Your Dog Become a Therapy Dog?
The more we learn about dogs, the more we understand their value -- not just to us as pets, but as members of society capable of helping others. One way dogs can give back is to become volunteer therapy dogs. This gives them a sense of purpose because they have a "job" -- and it is also a wonderful experience for the dog owner, who is the dog's partner in providing therapy.
There are a number of ways therapy dogs can help society. For example:
- they can visit classrooms and assist children with reading
- they can bring a smile to the face of kids who are in hospitals
- they can brighten the day of a resident at a nursing home.
Not all dogs are suited to become therapy dogs. Some programs require therapy certification.
The following programs operate in the Carolina mountains. Contact each directly for more information.
Paws with a Purpose- Asheville area
Paws 2 Care- Upstate SC area
SC Dogs Therapy Group - Anderson, Seneca, Clemson area
For more information about therapy dogs in general, contact:
Therapy Dogs International
Intermountain Therapy Animals
Therapy Dogs Inc.
Can Your Dog Get the Flu?
Human flu season has officially started. Millions of people will be getting "regular" flu shots, and H1N1 vaccine distribution began yesterday. So dog lovers everywhere, including in the Carolina mountains, are wondering, "Can my dog get the flu?"
The answer is yes and no. Dogs are not known to contract human influenza virus, or H1N1 (formerly known as Swine) flu, at least at the present time. But your dog can get a canine variation of the flu known as H3N8, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Canine flu causes similar symptoms in dogs as in humans -- runny noses, coughing, and fever. The H3N8 flu originated with horses but, in September 2005, it became a legitimate flu infecting the canine population. According to the ASPCA, there have been outbreaks of canine flu in parts of North Carolina, but only in areas where dogs are in close proximity, such as kennels and shelters. Canine flu does not appear transferable to humans.
Most cases of canine flu are mild, but it can develop into a more serious disease. There are treatments available, and there is a canine flu vaccine -- ask your vet about it.
For more information about canine flu, visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/canine/
http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-care-canine-flu-question-and-answer.html
Celebrating Senior Dogs
We own two wonderful dogs who are considered seniors, and we're not alone. In the U.S., about 40 percent of households with dogs have at least one that is considered a senior, aged seven or older. Senior dogs make great pets -- they tend to be laid back, know and accept the routine, and always provide unconditional love.
If you have a senior dog, you'll be interested in a new website called www.SeniorDogs.com. You'll find articles and resources for senior dog owners all in one place, covering medications, health insurance, nutrition, financial assistance and more. The site provides a full spectrum of pertinent information, as well as message boards where owners can find support and guidance from others who are experiencing the same challenges and joys of caring for an older dog.
Cold Weather Tips to Protect Your Dog
With colder weather setting in, it pays to be extra-cautious when it comes to protecting your dog from the elements. These helpful tips, courtesy of Asheville Humane Society, can keep your dog safe and comfortable during the winter months.
- If ingested, anti-freeze (ethylene glycol) is often lethal – even in very small quantities. Because many dogs and cats like its sweet taste, there are an enormous number of animal fatalities each year from animals drinking anti-freeze. Poisoning from anti-freeze is considered a serious medical emergency which must be treated by a qualified veterinarian IMMEDIATELY. Fortunately, the Sierra Company now offers a far less toxic form of anti-freeze. They can be reached at (888) 88-SIERRA.
- Ice-melting chemicals and salt placed across sidewalks and roads can cause severe burning to your dog's footpads. Whenever possible, avoid walking your dog through these substances, and wash off his footpads when you return home. There are also products available such as Musher's Secret which can be applied to your dog's footpads prior to going outside, which may help reduce the pain that is often caused by road salt and chemicals.
- When a dog's internal temperature drops below 96 degrees F (by being exposed to cold weather for long periods, or getting both wet and cold), there is a serious risk to the dog's safety. Small and short-haired dogs should wear sweaters when taken for walks during cold winter weather. Any sign that a dog is very cold – such as shivering – should signal the owner to bring the dog indoors immediately.
- Your dog should have a warm area to sleep at night, away from drafty windows or doors. Make sure your dog has warm comfortable bedding and his water isn't too cold.
- To avoid fleas this time of year, wash your dog's bedding and vacuum your carpets weekly. Also, make sure your dog is on a monthly flea and tick preventative.
- Your dog may require more calories in the cooler months. Talk to you veterinarian about whether or not you should increase the amount of food in the dog dish.
Most dogs shed their summer coats before putting on their winter coat. Make sure to brush your dog often to keep down the amount of hair dust found in your home.
Common Dog Myths
A really interesting article appeared on PetPlace.com recently -- "16 Common Dog Myths" by veterinarian Dr. Debra Primovic. It lays to waste some commonly held misconceptions about our favorite four-legged friends.
Here are just a few excerpts:
Dogs should have a litter before they are spayed.
Not true. Dogs that have a litter before they are spayed are not better for it in any way. in fact, spayed dogs are at lower risk for breast cancer and uterine infections.
Dogs are sick when their noses are warm.
The temperature of a dog's nose does not indicate health or illness.
Dogs eat grass when they are sick.
Many scientists believe grass was once part of dogs' natural diets and eating small amounts of grass is normal.
Read the entire article here: http://www.petplace.com/dogs/16-common-dog-myths/page1.aspx
Critter Magazine
If you're interested in adopting an animal and you live in or near the Asheville or Greenville areas, pick up a free copy of the monthly Critter magazine, generally available at shelters, rescue organizations, pet stores, and veterinary clinics.
Critter has helpful articles and ads from numerous area shelters and rescue organizations. The magazine focuses on adoption, awareness of spay/neuter as the best way to reduce animal over-population, and education, which includes a "Kids Page."
Download this book for your ebook reader.
(Pages 1-27 show above.)