First half enjoyed





 I hope that you all had a wonderful first half of the Holiday Season.  We had a very nice few days off.  For a couple of days over the holidays we had 5 dogs in the house.  Penny was and still is here; Luna and Elsa #2 were here as well.  Luna is my daughters dog and she was taking care of another Elsa for a friend so she was here as well; yep were a full house. With a little juggling all went pretty smooth.  But I have to say that the whole 2 Elsa's was a challenge.  Two dogs with the same name is just confusing for everyone.




Elsa and Elsa

 I feel extremely lucky to have had Luke with us this Christmas although the actual day was not a good one for Luke.  He was very tired and slept through most of it.  He did get a bit of energy by late afternoon and opened his gift and enjoyed squeaking it for a good long while before feasting on a turkey dinner with the rest of us.   The few days after Christmas were the same with Luke sleeping most of the day and him being very tired.  But Saturday and Sunday he had more energy and was more like himself.






We took Luke and Elsa out for a glorious walk on Saturday with the temperatures in the mid 60s and a crispness in the air, it was wonderful.  Penny and Elsa played for hours in the afternoon and then it was dinner time.  They all had a wonderful but final turkey supper which finished up the leftovers that they have enjoyed.  Then it was movie time; we watched the Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.  Penny entertained us for a longtime watching the movie herself.  It only took her a few moments to notice the apes and action; she sat mesmerized until she got scared and started barking ferociously.  She watched on and off for most of the movie depending on what was happening.  She is a very funny girl; she sits directly in front of the television following all the characters as they move around. 
 













Yesterday Luke spent much of the day following me everywhere which was very nice to see again.  He had much more energy than the previous few days.  We spent time outside on his favorite lounge while Elsa retrieved and Penny chased Elsa chasing her ball.  After dinner it was movie time again; with Penny curled up on my right side, Luke on my left and Elsa snuggled up beside Penny we enjoyed the movie; that is up until about 15 minutes till the end when Mr. Luke decided it was bedtime.  He got off the couch, went outside and then came back in.  Positioning himself on the opposite side of the coffee table from us; he stared at me, shifting in place.  I told him several times that it was not time but he was determined and let out a huge and very deep bark.  It startled all of us and he continued to bark at me until the end of the movie and I finally got up and we head to bed.  What a crazy guy he is; when he saw me get up he ran to the dog door with excitement.  When it's bedtime, it's bedtime. 

Leave a comment I'd love to hear what you did over the holidays.  

A dog's wish list



                            Give your dog you for Christmas. 

What do our dogs want for Christmas?  Do you put out a stocking for your dog?  Is there wrapped gifts sitting under the tree until the big day for your dog?   There are at my house, both Luke and Elsa will unwrap gifts along with Penny and Luna.  But what if there was a way to ask our dogs what they'd like for Christmas?  What would they want?  Being that each dog is an individual; I'm sure that you would get a plethora of replies.  But I think the most wanted thing for Christmas would be our time. 

My husband and I spent the day cooking and baking yesterday; Luke and Elsa moved around different locations to be with us.  They went from the lounge just outside of the kitchen door; to standing staring at us, lying on the carpet runners, then lying on the bed in the kitchen so they could be with us.  No matter where you go, your dog would love to go as well.  Do you give your dog enough of your time?  I think time is one of the greatest gifts you can give to both dogs and humans. 

Time is an amazing gift because it can come in so many forms.  It does not have to be a monumental show or action; it can be a quiet moment spent together enjoying time itself.  One of my favorite things to do with my dogs is sit; the time spent together just enjoying a moment.  Of course I also love going for walks, training, playing and everything else having to do with spending time with them. 

Time is a wonderful gift when given with just our dog in mind.  Planning a play date, hitting the park for some much loved running and/or retrieving, going to the beach strictly so that they can get their toes in the sand or simply doing what they want to do.  Dogs don't need much; their wants are much smaller in proportion than our own.  If we could ask them what they'd like for Christmas, I am sure that many would say time.  In these days of little time; time itself can be the most wonderful thing to give our dogs. 

A sad reality for many seniors




Old dogs have so much to give.


Senior after senior comes across my Facebook page every morning.  Old dogs dumped simply because they are old.  How many stories have I heard about old dogs being dropped off at shelters, rescues or being rehomed.  "Too much work," "I don't have time," are some of the reasons people claim.  Having an old dog is a gift.  Do you know how many people lose their dog at a young age and never get the gift of sharing an old dogs life?  A canines golden years are truly golden. 

Each dog is different but almost all deal with something as they get into their most senior years.  We've dealt with spine issues, vestibular, dementia, tumors, poor eye sight, loss of hearing and more.  I remember when both Tilley 14 and Jessie 15 were both incontinent.  Every bed in my house was covered with an absorbent pad and then a fleece blanket.  There was more laundry to do than years before but then I had little kids then which meant more laundry as well. 

I for one am so saddened by all the old dogs who lose their home in their golden years.  Old dogs have a tough time being adopted; everyone wants a puppy or young dog.  Thinking that old dogs are too much work and dumping them off for someone else to deal with, boggles the mind.  After a life of love given to us by our dog, we dump them?  Our day to day is full of changes, growing old is one of them.  We are all going the same way; our dogs just get there sooner than we do. 

Many things can happen to an old dog; but often their needs are simple.  Good food, a soft and warm place to lay and a gentle loving hand.  How hard is that?  Life slows down for an old dog; it is a time for us to learn to stop and smell the roses.  I remember trying to adjust to Tilley's slower than slow snail pace when walking after she recovered from Vestibular disease.  It was a conscious effort but when I got it, it was wonderful.  We would snail around the park, just enjoying being there.  I remember thinking how lucky I was to be able to snail pace around with her. 

Taking care of our old dogs is what should be done.  Doing what is right sure teaches us about what is important.  Being given up when you most need your family is horrific and I cannot believe that humans can be so cold and uncaring. 

Having an old dog is a time to cherish.  Take time to enjoy the quiet times, see through old cloudy eyes, lend a helping hand when needed and just be, together.  There should be no expectations; it is a time to just be in the moment.  If you are one of the lucky ones; you will be gifted several years of life with a senior.  There may be more cleaning, lifting, balancing and general care needed but what a gift.  Caring for an old dog is work yes, but we took that on when we let that little wriggling puppy into our heart. 

Leave a comment, I love to hear from you.  

Teaching the ropes



I finished what I wanted of my morning oatmeal/quinoa and almond butter and placed the bowl with the remainder on the floor for Elsa.  This is different than the typical in bed bowl cleaning that she does so she looked up at me first.  "Can I eat this?" her eyes asked.  "What a good girl she is" I thought to myself and gave her the "okay, you can eat it."   This is how it should be.  Yes, Elsa is very polite; she has had a great deal of training and education in the manner department.  No she is not perfect, but she is very good, usually. 

"Leave it," is one way to start the manner education.  That said the manner rule must go beyond "leave it."  Dogs should learn that not everything that is dropped on the floor is fair game; even when they aren't told to "leave it."  This is done by consistent education and a solid rule that is clearly understood by your dog; that all the food belongs to you.  This of course does not mean that Elsa or any other dog will not sit and drool by your side as you eat.  They will eyeball the food and long for it; but longing and taking are two very different behaviors.  

 Some dogs will steal food when you turn your back; leave the room, or are not paying attention.  This does not mean that they do not understand that the food belongs to you.  They have simply learned when it is safe to take it without consequence.  This is why you must teach your dog that even when you are not watching, you are watching and the food is still not to be touched.  Dogs are all different so what may be easy for one may seem almost impossible for another.  

 There will always be a moment when food or something has been left for so long that any dog will figure that it has been left and forgotten.  Dogs can teach each other not to touch their stuff; why should we not have the same if not more power?  We should, and if you are not the ruler of the food, who is?  I love when dogs have manners and I love being able to sit on the floor with a bowl full of food without being accosted.  I expect my dogs to sit politely and wait their turn without taking any food from the main food source.   Each dog that spends time in my house must learn this.  

 Manner training is something that is constant; different from behavior training that you ask for and is given by your dog.  Manners are learning what is and is not acceptable.  No it is not acceptable to jump up and snatch the food from my hand.  It is acceptable to go sit and your bed and hope that I will toss you a piece.  That decision is entirely up to me of course, the boss; the owner of the food.  It is not mean or cruel to be the ruler of the food; we surely do not want our dogs to be the ruler of the food.  Guess how that would turn out?  Not so good for us.  

Travel - three years ago today.


I have been doing a great deal of remembering lately.  As I finish up my second novel And Back Again I have been going over many incidents from my life three years ago.  That time is often on my mind but because I have been writing about it; of course it is in the forefront these days.  This morning I wondered what my blog was three years ago today; this is it.  I decided to repost it as my book will be coming out very soon. 

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As you all know my son and I just finished a road trip across America.  We left sunny Southern California and drove to South Connecticut.  We stayed at 5 hotels that allowed us with our dogs so I have a good feel for where to stay and what to ask for now.  When we began our trip we had four dogs, not an easy number to tell the reservation people.  We didn't want to pay an exorbitant fee for having our dogs but understand that there would more than likely be some fee.

We discovered that almost all La Quintas allow dogs of any size and any number with no extra fee.  We stayed in 3 La Quintas.  One was nice, one a bit run down and dirty but with great outdoor grounds and the last very nice.  We actually stopped at a fourth; brought our bags and "dog stuff" up to the room only to turn around and leave.  The girl was nice at the desk and understood.  The whole hotel stunk of cigarettes and cheese (says my son).  It was run down and divey, not somewhere I wanted to stay.

Cost per night for the La Quintas was 70.00-90.00 with no extra dog fee.

We took a quick trip up the road and stayed at a Drury; my favorite hotel on our stay, easily.  When we got to the Drury Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee I was pleasantly surprised.  They also gave us the most convenient room and had lots of "grassy" area for the pooches.  We had complimentary snacks and wine on our arrival which was more than welcome after 4 solid days of driving.  Their breakfast was great and they were very friendly.  The hotel was clean and very accommodating.  Even though when we were originally looking for a hotel to stay in at all of our stops we were told that the Drury had a 2 dog limit they allowed us in with our 3.  Sadly we didn't stay at other Drury Hotels because we thought they had a 2 dog limit.

Cost per night was 119.00 with no extra fee for dogs.

Our last night away we stayed at the Marriott Residence Inn; there was nothing else that would accept dogs in the area that night.  It was a really nice hotel but although they allowed our dogs they did not seem "dog friendly."  We were told not to bring the dogs through the lobby and were given an end room on the third floor.  I asked for something close to the elevator because of Tilley and hauling all of our stuff but we were told that they were completely booked and that this was the last room.  Neither I nor my son bought the "full" line as the parking lot was nearly empty all the way around the hotel.

Cost per night 169.00 plus 100.00 dog fee.

The girls at the front desk were very friendly and the hotel was beautiful.  It was a king suite with a full kitchen, a great place if you are staying a while.  We were also told that they had a very strict barking rule as there were so many "business" people staying at the hotel.  They charge a flat 100.00 dollar fee to stay with your dogs which is non refundable.  Nice hotel but didn't receive a warm and fuzzy about the dogs which were down to three at that point.

When you stay at a hotel with your dog think about location, both in regards to the room and the hotel.  If your dog is not accustom to staying in hotels then you will not want to leave them unattended in the room for more than a very short time period.  Luckily there were two of us so when we arrived and got settled Brad went and got our dinner for the night.

Location of room was very important for us, we had a 5 month old puppy and Tilley who has a tough time going a long distance.  Plus she is so slow that it can literally seem to take forever getting anywhere.

All in all it was a great experience.  Would I do it again?  In a heartbeat for my dogs.

 Leave me a comment, I love to hear from you!!!

A needle? Yikes



A week ago Sunday I gave my very first needle.  Never in all of my years of raising dogs and children have I ever had to administer a needle myself.  I know that many people do it daily; both for other humans and dogs, but not me.  When the Veterinarian recently said to me "you will give it to him," about Luke's weekly B12 shot, I wondered how difficult it was going to be for me.  As a caregiver, the idea of sticking a needle into skin made me shudder.  I care for, tend to, fix, mend, medicate, lift, support and anything else that requires care for my dogs.  Being a VERY hands on caregiver, I knew it was my job to do it but my head had other ideas. 

I've just never been required to do it.  I am the type of dog guardian who prefers to do anything that can be done by me myself. But needles?  This needle only needed to go under the skin so I didn't have to be worried about the air bubble in the needle; which I was worried about before hearing that I did not have to worry about it.  It was mostly that moment when you push the needle through the skin that was bothering me.  My husband said "I'll do it, I don't care at all."  That would definitely have been the easiest route to take but it was not in my plan to take the easy way out.  I was doing it.

 I had a knot in my stomach, strange I know.  Many, many people do it all the time; both in humans and dogs. I prepared the needle like the vet tech had shown me.  I didn't want a huge air bubble but a speck of air in there was okay because it was just going under the skin.  I was of course all thumbs the first time; trying my hardest not to stick myself in the process.  Fill the syringe, take off the first needle and then replace it with a new one.  I liked that idea when the vet tech had told me.  She said that once a needle had gone through anything that she considered it dull and would not stick it into a dog.  Sounded like good advice to me.  

 Old needle off, new one on and air pushed out.  Time to stick it into Luke.  I was nervous for sure; but I had to do it knowing full well I may have to do it again at some point in my life, right?  I grabbed Luke's scruff and prepared it for a stick.  He flinched a bit but was far less bothered by the process than I was.  He did look at me with those "why did you hurt" eyes.  But he was over it within seconds and back to sleep.  

 I just now finished giving him his second shot and it was much easier for me.  It has to be done so I will do it.  He didn't even flinch this time and nerves did not cause me to feel rushed to get it done.  He will be getting a shot for six weeks and we'll see if it makes a difference in his general energy level.  We will discuss further shots then.  I for one am very happy that I had to do it and now feel like I could actually stick someone with a needle if I was required to do so.  

Perfect? None of us.



Have you made a mistake or two in your life?  If you are a normal human, you probably have made more than a few.  I know I have.  Looking back at my life and some of the mistakes I've made causes me to shake my head in amazement.  What was I thinking?   Would I make those same mistakes again?  Heck no, I'll make new ones.  :)  Mistakes are lessons, but that does not mean that everyone will learn from their mistakes or own them.  Plus, there are those who don't see their mistakes as mistakes, so those folks will never learn.

Our dogs make mistakes regularly, just like us.  They are given reactions to their actions and like us; some will learn, others will not.  Dogs use feedback to learn; it is all about association.  Jump up onto the counter and grab some turkey while no one is watching, score.  Lesson learned.  Do it and receive an serious HEYYYY!!!!! and learn what the mistake was.  But then you must go further in the education of counters and seem to be absent; hiding around a corner and then deliver feedback when your dog thinks that the coast is clear.  Dogs learn much more easily than we do and they don't point fingers.

I blog, post and write; I share my opinion on many things canine and more.  This of course opens up the chance for people to dive on me, point fingers and pull out their soap boxes to declare me wrong.  That is fine, I have my opinion and you all have yours.  What bothers me is when people go on the attack.  They read or see something they don't like or don't agree with and go off the deep end about it.  I have learned to let those folks rant, arm flail, name call and throw a fit all on their own.  I will only reply to these sort if they personally attack me, my friends or family.  (That includes my wonderful FB groups)  Typically these folks show their true colors all on their own and people others will sidestep around them from that point on. 

I know when I am contacted by someone who is "one of these" I will end it short or cut off contact immediately. Know it all folks are always behind attacks on others.  So there is no point in trying to discuss anything with a no it all; because they already know everything and cannot learn one minute new piece of information.  Everyone makes mistakes; what you do with that mistake is the important part. 

Dogs make mistakes like us, but they forgive both other dogs and us for making them and move on.  Why do some people like to focus on other's mistakes?  They grab them and make a run for it without considering that everyone makes mistakes throughout their life?  All they know is that they are going to right the world. 

Mistakes are lessons, that is if you learn from them.  We all make them and if you think that you don't, that my friend is a mistake. 

Life is an evolution of oneself, through life lessons and yes, mistakes. 

LEAVE ME A COMMENT, LOVE TO HEAR FROM YA.  

Little furry humans?


In the raw and gorgeous


Nope, our dogs are not little furry humans but many people sure treat them as such.  Dressing them up and creating the idea that their dog actually talks seems to be all the rage.  There are advertisements and movies that feature talking dogs.  I am not a fan of talking dogs or having dogs dressed up.  It is my opinion that dogs are amazing as dogs and I do not feel that they need to be transformed or thought of like us to be any more wonderful than they already are.  I want to know more about dogs as dogs; their behavior and everything about them fascinates me.

Social media seems to have transformed many canines into little talking furry humans.  So why is it that we feel we need to give our dogs a human voice?  Dogs can talk, but it is not like we humans do; the have their own language and it is quite fascinating if you take the time to learn about it.  They can communicate far better than we can in many circumstances and have the ability to tell it like it is.  They most definitely do not need us putting words in their mouth.

What about fashion?  Those who dress their dogs as little furry humans.  Nope, dogs don't need a wardrobe.  Although I do believe that they need clothing when they are cold or to protect them from the elements.  Luke has a pair of pajamas that he wears when the tempts drop down low overnight.  Yes, it is our job to make sure that they are warm and comfortable; but dressed when they go out for the sake of fashion?  No. 

Humans seem to enjoy creating a human like image on many different animals, not only dogs.  I don't get the need to dress dogs like humans.  I adore dogs as dogs and don't think they need to resemble us at all to make them any more appealing.  Many of the smallest of breeds and mixes are the ones who get dressed most often.  Is this because we see them as adorable tiny little things made even cuter by dressing them up? 

BBC article - Why humans dress up their dogs.

I feel the same when it comes to photography; I like dogs in the raw.  I do not use gimmicks, accessories or props when shooting dogs.  They are amazing in their own right without anything man made added.  As far as talking?  No, I am not a fan of "talking dogs" for the simple fact that they do not talk as a human.  They talk dog and it is nothing like the way we talk, so let's allow them to be a dog and we can adore them as such.  

Shock collars, yes or no?



                                
                                                   Their lives are in our hands, to protect. 

A shock collar study showed up on my Facebook feed; so I thought I'd share it for those who might be interested in reading it as well.  The test was small and has left many people needing more definitive results.  Shock collars are used for many different things; outdoor perimeter, barking, general training and high level intense training. 

Shock collar test - Is it okay to use a Shock Collar?

In my opinion do we really need tests to know whether or not a shock collar should be used on a dog?   There are those of us who would never resort to strapping an electric shock collar on a dog and those who think nothing of it.  So perhaps a test is needed to scientifically prove that we should not zap our dogs is required. 

Shock collars are commonly used on hunting and police dogs.  The shock comes from a manual switch that is used by the handler.  These dogs are often in a state of high arousal or drive which is why the handler feels the need for a shock collar.  Push a dog to the point of no return and then zap them to bring them down again.  But not everyone uses shock collars for these dogs; there are many amazing dogs who have been trained without them.  In my opinion these dogs who are trained without a shock collar are much more reliable; due to the fact that they listen rather than wait to be shocked.

When we moved to Connecticut we soon discovered that the use of shock collars was the way that people kept their dogs on their property.  Almost no one had an actual physical fence; they relied on the electronic fences.  I was shocked to see how it had become the thing to do and that so many people just complied.  The invisible wire that is underground is where the shock is triggered.  The owner does not need to be present for the shock to happen.   

There were a few people who obviously were not okay with having their dog zapped or relying on a shock to keep their dog safe.  Those people had erected a fence around a backyard which kept their dog inside, lucky dog. The whole 'no fence' thing had me so puzzled.  There was a huge tick problem in CT; so keeping the deer out of your yard would be a good thing.  We had no fence around the rental house that we rented but we did put up a small fenced area so that the dogs could go out without being on leash.  The deer were free to come and go anywhere else on the yard and bring ticks with them.  It made no sense at all.  Sure deer can jump fences but they will walk around one before jumping one. 

The question remains; should a shock collar ever be used?  Perhaps if a dog is to be euthanized; then and only it may be the only way to save a dog.  But quality of life is so very important in dogs; being shocked constantly is in no way, quality of life, it is simply life at that point.  So it would really depend on the severity of the behavior issue and what the collar would be used for.   If the issue is that the dog is dangerous to others, so much so that a shock collar is needed; then we rely on the human to be there 100% of the time to save others from the said dog.  That is another debate altogether. 


The Shocking truth - from APBC

 Hollys Den - Why you should just say no to shock collars.


As far as I am concerned, the use of a shock collar in training is a big NO.  There is no need for tests for me to know what is right and wrong as far as inflicting shocks to our canine companions. 


Five words - who is your dog?



              Five words is tough, but a picture is worth a thousand.  At the park with Elsa yesterday. 

If I asked you to describe your dog to me in just five words, could you?  Only five single words, could you give me a good idea of who your dog is?  I thought about this for a long time myself and considered what words would best describe Luke and Elsa so that you could really get an idea of who they are.  Of course those of you who are on my Facebook groups or instagram, probably already have a idea because you see them constantly.  ;)

Luke - Funny, focused, devoted, emotional and heart.

Dogs change throughout their life, much like we do.  As they age they often mellow.  Five years ago I might have changed a word or two for Luke.  Things that use to be important to him are no longer a concern; he enjoys the simple things in life, like we all should.  When you look through the eyes of an old dog; life becomes quite clear. 

Elsa - Enthusiastic, intense, brainiac, loving, joy

Elsa has been Elsa since the moment we met.  She came out of her crate at the airport ready to take on the world with an exuberance for life that is amazing.  I sat and looked at the five words for a long time; changed a few and stared some more.

It is not always easy to describe something with just a few words.  Sadly I know some people couldn't come up with even one as their dog is simply that, a dog.  But when you have 'that' connection; the kind that we can all achieve with our dog, you can do it.  It might take a bit to think of only five words; it is hard sifting through all the words that could describe your dog.  I could go on forever about both Luke and Elsa; both are very individual and distinct. 

All dogs are individual, how many times have I said this over the years in my blogs?  As a whole dogs are simple yet complicated.  Once you know how dog's think, it becomes simple to figure them out.  Although the deeper you get with your dog the more complications you find.  Complications come with their individuality; they are all extremely interesting creatures.

Tell me who your dog is, only five words. 

LEAVE ME A COMMENT, I LOVE TO HEAR FROM YA.

Stress effects


                                                      Even fun can be stressful if there is too much. 

Stress is a huge part of day to day life.  Humans deal with stress in their own individual way as do our dogs.  All dogs are different so what one dog considers to be a stressful event, another will not.  Even when they are put into a stressful situation; they will all deal and suffer different levels stress itself.  Stress is not a good thing.  A dog's body can deal with small amounts of stress and move on past it but if there is too much stress for too long, it can be detrimental. 

Psychology today - The effect of training methods on stress levels in dogs.

There are many causes of stress in life.  Training can offer a stress response; I have witnessed dogs repeatedly squat in attempts of appeasing a human.  The dog who is trying to continual submit is in a highly stressed state.  This triggers a huge stress response in the body.  Going to the dog park can be a very stressful event; too many dogs or too much interaction.  Many dogs do not like dog park situation even though their owners drag them to the dog park every day.  They may seem okay with the whole thing until someone in the know observes them. 

Too much highly intense activity can trigger stress.  A dog that is continually "on" will suffer stress.  Some dogs are stressed by simple day to day activities; many rescues fall into this category.  They may have lead a sheltered life; received very little early socialization so dealing with the day to day is stressful without any huge stress triggers. 

A Veterinarian visit can cause a huge amount of stress.  So what can we do to help our dogs?  Get into your zen zone and stay with your dog for as long as you can.  Stay calm, the calmer you are the more your dog can stay calm themselves.  All Veterinarian facilities are different, find one that will offer what you feels comfortable with; one that focuses on your dogs needs. 

Whole Dog Journal - Easing your dog's stress

Stress can be created by a new environment, too much anticipation, over exercise, over stimulus, fear and many other different things.  It all depends on the dog; that is what we need to clearly understand, no two are alike.  

Down time is huge for dogs.  I remember when we moved to the house in CT for several months a couple of years ago.  The house was filled with floor to ceiling windows where Elsa could see squirrels all day long.  I literally had to put her away for naps throughout the day due to the ability to watch them.  She needed downtime and was unable to get any with the squirrels running about within her vision.  Without the physical removal of her from the prey trigger, she would become wired and out of control.  She was unable to rest which caused her body to stress.  So I had to take her away from it.  Being "on" all the time is very stressful. 

Moderation is important; the "more is better" is not always true.  Often more is too much.  Watch your dog, know your dog, so that you can see the small signs of stress.  Remember downtime is essential; your dog may need a little or a lot of downtime.  We often push our dogs thinking "this will be fun," but is your dog having fun? 

Veterinarian office etiquette


Zen
I am off to the Vets with Luke again this morning. Just thinking about going and sitting in the waiting room has me going over strategy to keep Luke as calm, comfortable and relaxed as possible.  It truly amazes me while I am there.  Etiquette people, all should know how to act appropriately at the vets office.  

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 I was growing angrier by he minute; as each person entered the waiting room, I sat astonished by their inability to read the situation.  I had chosen a strategic spot for Luke and I to sit where he would have to walk on the slippery floor for the shortest amount of time.  It was a lot for him to just stand and wait for his appointment; let alone deal with the stress on the slick surface he had to stand on.  I try my best to be "zen" at the Vets., it does no good to try to soothe a dog, you must be what you want your dog to be.  Unfortunately, each person who entered the room allowed their dog to go to the end of their leash; many were extension leashes. (Honestly!!!) The dog wandered just inches from the other dogs and Luke.

 When you are at the Vets., you will see a great deal of high stressed dogs.  Most don't like the Vets; Luke does not but at fourteen he's pretty calm about the whole thing.  But he didn't use to be, he use to turn into Cujo; growling at anyone who came his way in attempts to keep them all away.  Once a dog has been left alone at a Vets., their behavior is forever changed after that point in time.  So it goes without saying that going back to the place that has such bad memories puts them into a state of stress.  When a dog is stressed it is extremely important to remain calm and attempt to minimize further stress. 

 When someone walks into the Vets. with a dog on the end of a long leash, they are not considering anyone else.  They are at that point, what I call mindless.  Think people!!!!  Should you have your dog wandering around saying "hi" to everyone without knowing or caring how the other dogs are feeling?  NO, NO, NO!!  As you walk into the vets office, look around.  Do a visual scan of who is in the office and where you might sit quietly.  I do this all the time but sadly I cannot control other people (although I do a pretty good job at throwing dagger stares).  

 Out of control dogs need to be controlled and that means on a VERY short leash.  NO, I do not want your dog talking to my dog at the Vets.  It is not a social visit; not unless I am sitting without my dog and will chat about other dogs.  But as far as a free for all party social for the dogs, NO.  Enter calmly and keep your dog close.  When you sit down, keep your dog close.  Stress levels are high at the Vets and even the most friendly of dog can lash out when stressed.  Think, consider others.  

 Extension leashes should truly be banned. Those who use them are typically the people who should never use them.  The Vets. office is definitely not a place for an extension leash.  Keep your dog with you, in your own private circle and do not allow them to muck about.  Many people at the Vets are there for very sad reasons; some dogs are very sick while others are just freaked out.  

 Get your zen on and bring your dog in your zen zone with you.  Once you are done, paid and out of the building you can then go back to life as normal.  

 Leave a comment, I love to hear from ya.

Breeding facility?



First let me say that this blog has nothing to do with rescuing dogs.  If you rescued your dogs; then I say wonderful.  Rescuing a dog and sharing your life with them is amazing.  But would you rescue a dog and put her in a kennel to live?  Doubtful.  If you purchase a dog from a miller or facility breeder, you are not rescuing a dog.  You are putting money into the hand of someone who continues to pump out dogs.  This is about purchasing a puppy, and where not to.

A breeding facility, what does that bring to mind?  Herds and livestock, not dogs. 

Facility - Something designed, built, installed, etc. to serve a specific function affording a convenience or service.  Something that permits the easier performance of an action.

The term breeding facility is a way of distancing oneself from the title - Puppy Miller.  These so called "facilities" are a huge part of the reason why shelters and rescues are being filled up, just like the puppy millers.  Oh yes, they may be clean and fancy but they are pumping out puppies and selling them to anyone who has the money to buy their goods.  Think assembly line. 

PLEASE - do not buy dogs from people who do not have their dogs living in their home as family members.  Puppies should be born and raised in a home, not a kennel or facility. 

Breeding dogs should be a family affair; not something that is done by mass.  When a breeder has a couple of dogs who are all health and temperament tested then one or two litters a year is what should be expected.  As soon as it is done 'facility' style, things go big and it becomes more about how many than how good.  It goes without saying that the more dogs you have the more work needs to be done.  Well, if you get too many dogs that you see the need to kennel them all?  Have a breeding facility?  You've crossed the ethical line into mass producer.

Dogs are not large animals like cows or horses that need to be stabled in a separate barn.  Dogs deserve to be in a home and not used solely as breed stock.  Living in a kennel is no life for a dog; add to that many are bred and raise their puppies in a kennel environment, sad.  First and foremost a dog should be a companion.  If they turn out structurally sound, health tested clear and mentally sound then breeding may be a good idea.  But that does not mean that all of a sudden they become livestock.

Many wonderful breeders that I know have puppies in their living room, bedroom or kitchen.  The puppies have around the clock attention and are given every chance in life to thrive.  Having puppies in your home as part of the family is how it should be done.  Doing it on a bigger scale only means selling more puppies.  Greed often gets in the way of compassion and doing what is right.  What happens then is the mass producer becomes less strict about who can buy a puppy.  Soon they have so many puppies that anyone with enough money can have one.  They don't see a problem, it's all working out for them financially.  But is it right?  No.  Not in my opinion.

Now before you all get in a flap, read the blog.  I am talking about giving your money to someone who mass produces puppies vs. someone who does it right.  Many really great breeders only have a litter or two a year; some only have a litter every couple of years.   Typically they have a waiting list and many puppies are sold before they are even born.  Consider those kenneled dogs at night, when they go to sleep; they are not snuggled up to their human or their canine companion, no they are snuggled up to a block wall or chain link.  They are penned in their housing; there for a money making endeavor.   Their lives are not shared with the humans in their life.  They may have fleeting times when they are out running around but they are not true companions as every dog deserves to be.

I do not breed dogs and I have no intention of ever breeding dogs.  But I know that if I did, there would be a pile of puppies in my living room; not out back in a 'dog facility.'  They would be sharing my life as I share theirs, together.

LEAVE ME A COMMENT, love to hear from ya.  :)

Thanksgiving

                                                From our home to yours, Happy Thanksgiving. 

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day which as we all know is the kick off to the Christmas season.  Thanksgiving day and the season to follow can be taxing on our dogs.  We may be heading off and leaving them at home; or having a houseful of guests that they are not use to.  No matter what you are doing for Thanksgiving, make sure to consider your dog/dogs.  Hustle and bustle can lead to stress in humans and canines alike.  Take extra time to make sure that your dog has a great day along with the rest of the family and your friends.

-  Make sure to fit in exercise.

-  Have a place where your dog can slip away for some quiet time and rest.

-  Watch what your dog is eating (handouts from guests).

-  Turkey yes, stuffing, gravy and trimming.....no.  If you feed strictly kibble, a few pieces of turkey is more than enough.  I got a big turkey so that Luke and Elsa will have lots of leftovers :) 

-  Watch your dog closely while guests are coming and going.

-  Stress is bad for us and our dogs, try to have a relaxing and thankful day. 


Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.  Welcome the season. 


Public friendly dog and guardian

 
Play invitation...waiting for a reply.  Etiquette.
 
I cannot believe how many people just don't understand what having dogs means.  So many people ruin it for the rest of us; those who just go through their day to day without considering others.  That is the biggy here; CONSIDER OTHERS.  Yes you love your dog, yes your dog is the greatest dog in the world, but not everyone feels that way.  Some people are not dogs fans (gasp!!!), others might be afraid of dogs, some people may like their dog but not yours, while others may have dogs that do not want to interact with your dog.  Okay here goes.

-  Pick up your dog's poop.  Do not turn around and pretend that you don't see her pooping.  Be prepared, carry bags with you at all times.

-  Do not have your dog off leash in public areas if there is ANYONE else around.  Even when you trust your dog to be friendly, other people and dogs may not be.  CONSIDER OTHERS.

-  Rein your dog in when passing by other dogs or people.  This one drives me CRAZY.  I love to walk in very public areas and am always astounded by the rudeness of other people.  They let their dog wander to the end of the 'extension leash' with no regard to the other people and dogs around. Teach your dog to walk comfortably by your side for when they need to be close to you.

-  Do not allow your dog to interact with others unless they are specifically invited to do so.  Assuming that all dogs want to meet and talk to your dog is not wise.  So many people just walk right up, head on to other dogs without knowing the least bit about the dog they are approaching.  Do not interact unless both parties have given the okay to do so. 

-  Teach your dog to mind their own business, not all people with dogs want to interact. 

-  DO NOT take other people's word that they dog is friendly.  Learn to read body language.  In general people do not know whether or not their dog wants to interact or not. 

-  DO NOT take your dog into public where dogs are not suppose to be. 

-  DO NOT slap a red vest on your dog and pretend that it is a service dog.  This is becoming far too common and it is very uncool for those who have real service dogs.

-  Train your dog.

-  If your dog has behavior issues in public, address them.

-  DO NOT groom your dog and leave a massive pile of hair in the middle of the park.  (Gross, I hate this)

- If you cannot control your dog when in public; either don't be in public or go to training and learn how to do so. 

The other day while I was walking at the harbor with a friend; I could see a couple up ahead of us with three terriers with their leashes dropped.  Knowing terriers, I veered off quite a distance to give us some reaction room.  Sure enough one of the terriers spotted Elsa and headed our way.  I told the owner that Elsa was not small dog friendly (she has been snapped and lunged at too many times) knowing full well that the dog would most likely lunge at her.  The owner replied "no he's not friendly either" as she allowed him to continue, really?  Lucky for him he stopped at my friends dog who is not bothered by small dogs attacking him.  The terrier did what I thought he would while the owner tried frantically to grab his leash.  This is what I am seeing more and more on my walks.

 It is sad that humans just don't get it.  Yes your dog is wonderful, in fact the best dog in the world; but not everyone thinks the same way that you do.  Be polite and CONSIDER OTHERS. 

This is just a very small list, I could go on forever. 

LEAVE ME A COMMENT, LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU. 

Weekend grooming



Saturday morning I decided that it was grooming day.  Having helped a friend with home grooming earlier in the week, I felt inspired.  I decided to take some of Luke's coat off first as it is easier for him if he has less hair to wash and dry.  So with my 3/4" blade I took off some bulk.  I considered what order I wanted to groom.  Bathe both dogs, dry and then groom?  Or bathe Elsa, get her done and then do Luke.  Hmmmmmm? 

First I wanted to get my equipment out and would then decide on order.  I ran downstairs to grab my dryer and a couple of towels when I spotted the bone sheet.  I had completely forgotten that I'd taken bones out the day before and planned on doing bones.  I thought for a moment and realized that it was stupid to do bath day before bone day.  So I grabbed the bone sheet, dryer and towels and head outside.  Elsa is so unbelievably smart that I confused her by what was in my hands.  She knows what the dryer means and backed away but then she saw the bone sheet.  Luke was spinning around because he saw the bone sheet and didn't care about the dryer; even though he always runs away when it is dry time.  Elsa was puzzled, she stood far away and watched. 
 
I put the dryer down around the corner and left it there.  Then prepared the bone area; Elsa knew then that it was bone time and forgot about the dryer.  Even though both Luke and Elsa are very clean about their bone chewing; they of course get some stuff on them during the chew.  They had their bones and then it was into the shower for Elsa first.  I decided that I would bathe and groom her first and let Luke rest.  When it got warmer in the afternoon I'd attend to him.   Just a bath and dry and save the trimming for the next day.  Luke has a very difficult time standing now so he is groomed in bits and pieces so that he remains comfortable with it all.

 Elsa is so good about having a bath.  She knows well before I tell her that it is bath time and sinks a bit.  She goes upstairs and all the way to the bathroom door before putting her brakes on.  Then she just needs a little shove to get her the rest of the way.  Into the shower we go; cotton balls placed into her ears to protect them from water and she has her shower.  Once she's done it's out to the balcony for a huge shake off; then downstairs and outside for a post bath zoom.  She has a bit of time to dry in the sun and finish up with my forced air dryer which makes trimming a whole lot easier.

 She wasn't really long or unruly so it was a quick clean up for her.  I used my 3 3/4 blade, back and forth, back and forth until she resembled velvet.  I love the softness of her coat after a fresh trim.  She is like a giant plush teddy bear; and like a teddy bear, I could cuddle her all night long.  So Elsa was complete and looking beautiful, Luke's turn.

 Luke had his bath; he is also very good and goes in without a fight.  A few brake moments but nothing big.  I have to say that it was sad soaking him down and seeing his small frame; he seems like a small dog now.  He has lost weight and his loss of muscle loss is a bit shocking; especially compared to Elsa who is so beefy and well muscled.  Luke also goes out to the balcony for his first shake off and towel rub down which I'm sure feels wonderful.  Then like Elsa he was set outside in the sun to start drying and the rest was done with my dryer.  

 The rest of Luke's haircut was saved for Sunday.  Having a bath and being dried is big when you are a frail fourteen year old.  So on Sunday morning after Elsa and I returned from our walk it was time to shave Luke's body.  I knelt on the ground and he stood.  I wish I could lie Luke down on the table but he hates it so, he has to stand.  It didn't take long but long enough for an old man.  Back legs were done in the afternoon and the front legs will wait until this afternoon.  Then he will be done for another good long while.  He looks great and I know he feels great.  

 

Finally it is here!!!!

https://www.createspace.com/3441713
 
Feedback for you and your dog. 


For many years I have been working on a new puppy training book.  Over the years it has evolved a great deal; things I wanted to include in a 'first' how to book changed.  What I wanted to give new puppy owners is a book of answers to the most common questions I received while working with my clients and their puppies.  For many new puppy guardians, taking the step into the dog world is confusing.  My book clears much of the confusion up and gives a precise way to deal with many of the issues that your puppy will throw at you. 

Having worked with so many new puppy guardians and understanding their need for quick answers; the book is written to deliver this.  Each chapter starts with a quickie version; for those times when you need an answer and need it fast.  Then each quickie version is followed up with a longer, full explanation.  There is far more to getting a puppy than just paying for them and bringing them home.  Educating and guiding them through the first weeks and months is so important in how they deal with the rest of their life; your life together. 

I love to write and I love to help others to better understand how to coexist with their dog in a more harmonious way.  After all this world of ours is geared around humans; it is up to us to teach our dogs how to live in it so that they can thrive and enjoy.  I am very excited to have completed this first step dog book; now onto the next.  Enjoy!

A new friend


Yogi checking out Luke with Elsa in the forefront trying to entice play.  :)


The day finally arrived when Elsa would meet Yogi,  (previously Simba) Lucy's little brother.  Lucy is Elsa's good friend, they have been friends since Elsa was little.  Lucy comes over regularly for play days but this time it was the little mans turn.  Yogi is four and a half months old and as cute as all get out.  I was so curious as to how this would play out with Elsa.  The last time Lucy came over to our house; Yogi had been added to Lucy's family.  When Lucy arrived. Elsa had stopped dead in her tracks to sniff the new smells that Lucy had carried with her.  So Elsa had already got a whiff of Yogi.

 Obviously Elsa would think that it was Lucy at first, but for how long?  How long would it take her to feel like he was a friend?  I was very interested in the logistics of it all.  So yesterday was the day; Mr. Yogi arrived and I told Elsa that Yogi was coming over.  Being that she had never heard the name before; she was excited by the "someone's coming over" part but not the name.  You could see the difference just by the fact that she didn't know the name that I was saying.  

 Yogi and his Mom walked into the backyard; but Luke and Elsa had gone inside to see who was coming.  So I had to let them out of the kitchen to see him.  Elsa was already excited just because she knew someone was coming over.  What a girl.  I released the hounds and they pounced him.  It is a lot for a little guy; a new place with two big dogs charging you.  Yogi slunk a little but not much, he's a pretty confident guy.  Elsa sniffed him like crazy; she wasn't sure about this guy who looked like Lucy but wasn't.  You could see the confusion and figuring out process.  He was there with Lucy's Mom who Elsa loves so he had to be pretty good.  

 It didn't take more than a minute for Elsa to be convinced that he would be a satisfactory substitute for Lucy.  Yogi took about the same amount of time and began a game of chase right away.  He was drawn to Luke as many puppies are for a bit but soon discovered who the "play" dog was.  

 It was a great play date and extremely good for Yogi to do without his big sister along.  He will be back next week for more play and I can guarantee when I tell Elsa that 'Yogi' is coming over, she will be very excited.

Luke is very patient.


Checking out Luke.

Elsa's tries every tactic and toy to entice play.  She ADORES playing with friends.


Elsa's body language screams 'having fun.'


Tails are so important. 


Yogi is a very confident little man.


I love this shot of Elsa, she is so freaking agile.  Her drink of water flying out of her mouth.


Honestly!  Handsome little devil.  


Didn't take much to tucker him out.  


Yogi sniffing Luke with Elsa watching closely.  If Luke gets annoyed she will get Yogi away, it's what she does to take care of Luke.  
 
 
LEAVE ME A COMMENT; I LOVE HEARING FROM YOU GUYS.

Two tired days


Luke followed us outside but slept as Elsa retrieved. 


Yesterday and the day before were the first days that I have ever been able to sneak away from Luke.  I got up from my desk glancing over to see if he was awake.  He was not, he was sound asleep with his little feet twitching.  I quietly walked out of the office and into my bedroom; then came back to check on him.  I don't want him going up and down stairs without assistance so if he is up I need to know.  Elsa and I headed downstairs where I had many things to do.  I kept an ear out to hear the sound of his feet up and in the hallway, nothing.  I have never in all of Luke's life been able to move without him following; these past two days are a first.

 I remember leaving Tilley sound asleep in my office.  I could go out shopping for an hour and come back to her in the exact same place.  She never even knew that I was gone.  Old dogs need to sleep and there is nothing more peaceful than watching them do so.  But Luke has always been my shadow and his hearing is still pretty darn good as are his other senses.  I believe a big part of it is just that he feels me moving, even without hearing me.  I try to sneak so that he can have some uninterrupted sleep when I need to move around.  Walking without creaking is not easy; either the floor creaks, I creak or my chair creaks. 

Of course Elsa is on it; I imagine I'll have the same thing with her unless she totally looses her hearing as she grows old.  Her sense of my whereabouts is scary.  I cannot even move my chair in the office without her in the ready.  Elsa and I are joined; where I go, she goes.   Where I sit she sits and where I sleep she sleeps; even  more so than Luke and I.  Not all dogs follow so intensely.  Tilley followed but nothing like Luke and Elsa.  Jessie followed more than Tilley but as she aged she would find a spot and rest her head until she was done.

 Monday and Tuesday, Luke was very tired.  Not getting up and following, sleeping for hours at a time, deep sleep.  I love that my dogs follow me wherever I go; but now I want Luke to take what he needs.  He needs to sleep and following me around at 14 years of age is tough.  I have put a baby gate at the bottom of the stairs that go up to our bedroom and my office.  I often place it there when I'm running up and down.  This lets him know that I will be back and he cannot follow me.  I often come back down the stairs to find Luke and Elsa right behind the gate waiting.  But they are starting to get use to it now.

Life is ever changing but it seems like only yesterday that I was tip toeing away as Tilley and Jessie slept.  I would hand signal to Luke to come with me.  It is now Elsa who is reading sign language and following as Luke sleeps.  Life doesn't stop for anyone.