Full House Greets Beth Ostrosky Stern

It might have rained cats and dogs Tuesday night, but that didn't dampen the spirits of the large crowd who turned out to the Book Revue to hear Beth Ostrosky Stern speak about her new book "Oh My Dog" and her passion for pooches in general.

The event attracted dog lovers, Howard Stern fans, and fans of both.

"I love dogs and have always had them," said Fran Crocco, of Huntington, who owns a poodle mix.

Crocco turned out for the event because she is interested in animal activism and because her husband is a "devoted Howard Stern fan," she said.

Beth's enthusiasm for all things great and small was contagious as she introduced the book, her compendium of dog-care tips gleaned from experts and her own experience as a dog owner. She and Stern famously own an English Bulldog named Bianca and recently adopted a special-needs cat named Apple, much to Howard's chagrin. That is if his complaints on his radio show are to be believed.

The book covers everything that you always wanted to know about dog care, and some things that you might have been afraid to ask. Topics include choosing a dog that matches your lifestyle, training, grooming, and feeding man's (and woman's ) best friend.

According to the former model, both she and Howard are dog lovers, and the decision to welcome a dog into their household marked a pivotal point in their relationship.

"I'll never forget the moment Howard and I decided to get a dog together. Early in our relationship, we spent Sunday afternoons at the neighborhood dog park, just watching people interact with their pets," Beth said, adding that after a year, the couple decided to take the plunge.

Enter Bianca, who is now eight years old.

A volunteer and national spokesperson for the North Shore Animal League America, Beth is also involved with the Wildlife Rescue Center of the Hamptons and the Long Island English Bulldog Rescue organization. In a private interview, she said that she plays an active role in puppy-mill rescues, including clean-ups, and facilitates adoptions.

Given her background as an animal activist, Beth said that people often came to her with a multitude of dog-care questions, some of which she felt ill-equipped to answer. About a year and a half ago, when she was approached about writing the book, she sought the advice of renowned dog experts, including Oprah's trainer.

She said she is very proud of her book and hopes that animals will benefit as a result of its publication.

The image of Beth lovingly caressing Bianca that adorns the  cover of glossy oversized paperback was taken by Greenlawn native Christopher Appoldt.

Appoldt surprised Beth by turning up at the book-signing event with his wife, Lindsay, and his assistant on the photo shoot, Kate Best.

Appoldt's photos have adorned 'paw-worthy' publications such as Dog USA, Puppies USA, Dog Fancy, and Popular Dogs as well as Kennel Club books. He was honored as NSALA's "Friend of the League" in 2008, and met Beth via their mutual involvement in the non-profit organization.

"I felt very comfortable with Chris," Beth said, raving about the cover image. "He photographed our wedding."

In accordance with Beth's interest in animal welfare, an NSALA van housing 15 animals in need of loving homes was parked in front of the Book Revue during the event, NSALA Vice President of Communications Devera Lynn said.

Beth was almost moved to tears when she learned that two puppies had been adopted during the course of her event.

"What a beautiful way to begin and end the evening," she said, adding that she and Howard are  anxiously awaiting the moment when they come home and find their two pets snuggling, she told one guest.

One of the most surprising things that Beth learned during the course of her research was the importance of reading dog food labels, she said.

She was shocked to discover that the name brand food that she had been feeding Bianca contained a high proportion of peanut shells.

"When I changed her diet, her fur became thicker and shiny. She acts like a puppy," Beth said, adding that her book will teach readers what to look for on labels.

In collaboration with dentist Jennifer Jablow, Beth has also invented a portable toothbrush for dogs called the PAWfect Smile dental pen. The pen comes pre-filled with vanilla or peanut butter flavored toothpaste.

Beth said that she tested it on herself before using it on Bianca.

Dog owners should brush their dogs' teeth three times a week because gum disease can adversely impact their vital organs, Beth said of the new tool which may also help combat puppy and dog breath.

Meanwhile, "Oh My Dog," which debuted on May 4, is on the New York Times best-selling advice paperback list. A portion of the proceeds from sales of the book and the dental pen will benefit animal charities.