Health and fitness

                                Pre workout then it's onto our run. 

Health and fitness is huge these days, that is in the human world.  Not so much for our canines.  Many dogs spend their life being sedentary, eating poor quality food and getting little exercise.  Sad.  I see so many fat dogs and it is sad because fat dogs can't do what they should be able to do.  They age quickly and are susceptible to all sorts of illnesses due to being overweight.  The other day as I was heading down to the beach I drove past a man and what looked to be an old dog.  As I got closer I realized that the dog was just fat. 

While waiting my turn at AAA last week I sat watching a dog that was suppose to be a service dog.  Maybe it had been a service dog at one time; but to me it looked like one of these "buy a service vest" type.  It was a filthy cocker spaniel, needing grooming badly and it was very fat.  The poor dog sat waiting for it's owner to finish up and panted like crazy.  It was not hot in the place at all; in fact I had noticed that it was chilly, like their AC was running overtime. 

Dogs should not be overweight.  It is very easy to keep a dog in shape, especially in the feeding department.  We have complete control over what our dogs eat so if they are fat it is our fault.

The amount of what goes into our dogs is one issue, the other is what goes in.  There is so much garbage food out there that we are lied to about as far as quality.  Dogs are carnivores and as such they need a great deal of animal protein to build muscle and run at their optimum.  We dog owners have been duped into thinking that the best thing for our dogs to eat is dry kibble.  We think that the big dog food manufacturers know best and are looking out for the well being of our dogs.  Sadly many of the big dog food companies only care about the bottom line and what's in it for them, not your dog. 

Just like we should be eating real, unprocessed food, so should our dogs.  The less processing the better.  The more nutrient dense, the better.  Within the world of dry kibble there is a wide spectrum of good to the very bad.  We could say "our dogs have always done great on big box store kibble," but have you ever considered how much greater they could do on better food?  I know when I eat a great and healthy diet I feel amazing compared to when I slide and eat some not so great food.  I want Elsa to feel the best that she can.  I do not want to simply fill her bowl with something that is called "dog food" and call it good.  

Too many people still look at their dog as "just a dog."  Sure they love their dog but don't consider real nutrition to be something that is worth spending money on; at least  not for "the dog."  Much of the world's humans eat a poor diet just like their dogs.  Real food, real food is what we all should be eating.  As close to it's natural form as possible.  Last night Elsa had a nice bone as her appetizer.  Raw meat, raw bone.  Then we moved onto the main course, wild caught sole, spinach, quinoa and cranberry.  I had a huge organic salad, we ate well.  We ate real.

Today I will hit the gym and then it's onto the park where we will likely do 3-4 miles with added chuck it time.  Keeping Elsa healthy and fit is my job; she joined our family so she is one of us.  She is not just the dog put in our house to sit and watch us eat good food and live an active life, nope she's one of us. 

Blind spots

Elsa and I spent the morning at the beach yesterday.  It was truly glorious.  The weather was perfect, the tide was low, and there were very few people there.  We planned to walk the whole beach but first we head right to the rock piles where there are crabs and cool stuff in the tiny tide pools.  Climbing over the rocks, we went over the first hump and down in the midst of it.  Elsa's scent drive was turned up as she checked it all out.  She sniffed and I enjoyed watching her be a dog.

For anyone who knows me, I am very cautious.  Always watching, scanning and very aware of our situation.  Being that we were down in the heart of the rock pile and could not be seen by newcomers I kept an eye on the entrance area.  I could just see the top of a couples head as they climbed the rocks; when their dogs appeared and the women let go of their leashes.  She hadn't seen us, and had no knowledge of what lay behind the rock hill that they were climbing.  But yep, she let the leashes go without knowing.  Blind spot. 

One of the dogs saw Elsa and I and immediately started our way.  It was not saying "I'm super friendly," with it's body language.  It's head was lowered, tail completely up straight with full eye contact. I yelled to the woman to pick up her leashes.  Unable to hear me due to the surf she cupped her ear with her hand; leaning in trying to hear what I was saying.  Frustrated, I yelled "SHE'S NOT FRIENDLY."  I wanted the woman's attention and that got it.  She yelled to her dog who needed several calls before listening; but she was finally able to get a hold of their leashes.  The husband and wife talked a bit and then Elsa and I made our way out of the rock pile. 

I thanked the woman as we got closer and explained that Elsa had been attacked and was uncomfortable around strange dogs.  She said she completely understood, nodding.  As we passed closer the black dog who had been heading our way lowered it's head growling menacing at Elsa.  We continued to calmly walk by with me of course shaking my head. 

Elsa and I were out enjoying the day.  We did not need someone ruining our wonderful day at the beach.  The people with the dropped leashes had made a foolish judgment dropping the leashes in a blind spot.  Who knows what could have been over the other side.  They had not even seen us down on the sand behind the rock hill. 

I am admittedly the chief of safety; we always tease that I should have been the head of safety at some company.  Safety comes first for me and letting your dog off leash or dropping leashes in a blind spot is not safe.  Just like those who have their dogs on full extension of an extension leash and let their dog go around corners before they do.  Foolish and unsafe. 


My job is a serious one, Elsa's body guard.  In a pack of wolves there is always protection from what life might throw at a pack member.  Just like our human/canine packs, you must be there for your dog.  Speak up and step up to protect yours.  There are lots of those out there doing unsafe things with their dogs.  Protect yours.

Supply and demand

Rescuing dogs has become a huge social thing.  I talk to many people who will never "pay" for a dog.  They stand strong in their desire to "rescue" their canine companions.  That is wonderful, rescuing an animal in need is commendable.  So many people are rescuing dogs, that there is now a shortage in many areas. 

Not enough rescues?  This is the dream of every rescuer right?  That is what I've always heard the rescuers say "if I didn't have a rescue job I'd be happy, it would mean that no dogs were homeless."  Well, I think that the goal is getting closer each day.  I have read article after article about the shortage of rescue dogs for people to adopt. 

NPR  - shortage of rescue dogs

The Bark - Southern Dogs

The supply and demand right now seems to be within certain areas.  Places where spay/neuter and adoption have gone up have fewer homeless dogs.  So there is a great deal of moving and transporting dogs right now.  Those shelters and rescues willing to work with others and save a life are doing that.  They are taking the time and spending the money to find places for the dogs to go to be rescued and rehomed. 

Then there are the shelters who are not.  Sadly there are shelters who just euthanize.  I have heard by many people of rescuers showing up to pull dogs from a shelter and finding out that they have been euthanized, even after solidifying arrangements.  No, not all shelters or rescue groups are equal.

So what happens when you cannot find an adoptable dog? 

"I would NEVER buy a dog," are the exact words from many.  Well, there may come a time when you do have to buy a dog; and that would be a good thing.  When and if that actually happens, where will everyone go to purchase their dogs?  They will hopefully go to the small, reputable breeder who has all their dogs living in their home as companions.  Breeders who are only producing a small amount of dogs; those who are breeding dogs for the love of it, not the money of it.  Those who actually care about their dogs. 

The question will be, if and when there are no longer dogs in need of rescuing?  Where will you go?  If we head to the small breeders where you have a good chance of having to wait; all puppies have homes before they are born then maybe the homeless pet issue won't happen again.   But if we humans head for the easy route where there are pages and pages of puppies to choose from; simply click and they send you a puppy, then it will all happen again.  It really is up to us. 

Distractions

A large Bloodhound distraction for Penny. 

Most trainers know and understand about distractions.  What a dog can do without distractions may be nearly impossible with distractions.  Of course there are vast differences in distractions.  Something can be a distraction to one dog, but not distract another.  This past weekend when our sitter arrived, Elsa became unglued.  She ADORES people.  Second to her ball I think people are ranked number 2.  So having a new person arrive at the house is a big distraction.  Once she did her initial greeting I considered her "chill" exercise.  We have a small rug that is placed near the front door for her to go to. I didn't know if she could do it with such a distraction.  I was armed with dried liver incase she did so I said "chill."  She stopped her crazy greeting process and looked at me.  I stood quiet, waiting.

I calmly asked her again and she enthusiastically ran to her rug and lay down.  I tossed her the liver that had been tucked into my top and praised her like crazy for this very big accomplishment.  Her sitter was thoroughly impressed as was I.  One was all we were getting right then, in her flurry of "new human" crazies.  Before moving into the living room I asked her for a "reverse" and she complied while barking excitedly. 

Knowing what your dog can handle as far as distractions when asked to do a particular behavior is important.  If you ask your dog to do something when the distractions around are just too exciting or distracting then you are setting them up for failure.  Many people call their dogs to them when there are huge distractions around.  There is no way that the dog is coming so what they learn is to ignore.  If you don't think your dog will be able to comply, don't ask.  If you need your dog by your side, go get them.  

What you can do is ask for really simple behaviors that you are sure can be accomplished.  This helps a dog to work under distractions.  But make sure that your dog fully understands what is being asked of them.  If you've only taught your dog to sit at home in a very quiet kitchen or living room then it is going to be very hard under big distraction surroundings.  Baby steps.

Work with small distractions and work your way up to the big ones.  The bigger the distraction, the bigger the reward must be for complying.  

Steps

Baby steps.  Baby steps are often the way to go.  There are times in life when you just have to take a huge leap but then there are times when baby steps are the best idea.  We have taken baby steps for leaving Elsa alone since Luke's passing.  As you all know I am a huge advocate of alone time with our dogs; both being taken out alone and most importantly being left alone.  As the one left behind, our dogs must learn to deal with life on their own.  When they have a canine life partner pass, they must deal with that absence. 

We started leaving Elsa alone immediately.  Just heading to the gym was the first time after Luke.  This step was an easy one as it is something she is well accustom to.  The steps became more frequent and she was left here and there for an hour or two.  It is imperative that she be left at home sometimes.  If we started to bring her everywhere, never being separated from us; we would in fact be creating an even bigger problem. 

The next step was to be left for the day.  I was not comfortable leaving her alone for the whole day so I had our sitter come and stay with her.  With another step conquered, this past weekend we had another.  An overnight without Mom and Dad, alone, without Luke.  We had our sitter come and stay again and she did wonderful.  Elsa adores her and it was fun for her to spend the day with someone other than me.  This step produced some obvious behaviors.  Once we got home Elsa would not leave my side.  She is a following type girl but this was a notch up.  She didn't take her eyes off of me.  

Of course now that she has lost Luke there will be the worry of losing someone else in her life.  Especially for a dog like Elsa.  So we are doing baby steps to help her and it is working.  This weekend was the biggest step, an overnight alone.  Even though she was not alone she was in the sense that she did not have Luke.  But she got through it and was very happy to see us when we got home. 

Baby steps to success.

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Interactions

 

Not everyone wants to play like this; and that's okay. 

I love watching how Elsa interacts with her friends.  Each one is very different and as such, interactions are different.  On Wednesday, Lucy came for a visit; Yogi did not because he is still healing from his neutering procedure.  Lucy and Elsa have been friends for a long time but their interactions are much more subdued than Elsa and Yogi. 

Elsa's friend Oaklee who she sees regularly at the park is a quiet girl.  Elsa and Oaklee enjoy each other's company but do not play.  They hang out and walk together and that is what their relationship is.  Every single dog is different. 

When Elsa joined our home she was dog #4 in our pack.  She very quickly learned how to deal with all except Jessie.  Jessie was confusing to her because of her dementia.  Each time Jessie and Elsa came together, Jessie acted like it was the first time they'd met; in Jessie's head it was.  Jessie did not give appropriate feedback so their relationship was a strange one.  One that needed my constant supervision. 

Supervision is so important when new dogs interact.  Not only supervision but close watching and reading.  Much can be seen if you really watch.  Signals are thrown around at lightening speed and if you are not watching, you won't know what is going on. 

Dogs have an amazing ability to learn how to interact with different dogs and change their behavior.  Elsa had to change big time as Luke grew older.  When they were first together, much of their day was spent full on brawling and playing tug-o-war.  The change was slow but drastic from brawling and slamming into each other to just being.  Watching her adjust to life change and expectations was amazing. 

I have never had a dog so adept at reading as Elsa is.  Even in Luke's very old age, he wanted to play.  He would say something to Elsa, something that I was unaware of and she would immediately get into her "let's go" mode.  She would cozy up to Luke, wrapping her tail around his neck to entice him into play.  It was very short lived but even two days before he passed, they played. 

Like many dogs, Elsa sometimes requires a feedback from me.  Having Penny as a regular playmate she can rough house like a WWF wrestler.  Sometimes she forgets who she is playing with when it is not Penny.  That is my job to remind her.  When our dogs play, it is our job to make sure that the play is fun, for all involved.  Some dogs that she interacts with will not tolerate play at all, so that must be enforced.  Coming together does not always mean play, but simply coexisting.  It is essential to monitor and read all interactions. 

Penny (bull terrier) was required to learn difference quickly.  What was okay with Elsa was NOT okay with Luke.  When she was very small it was harder for her as all she saw was blonde legs.  But it didn't take her long to figure out who belonged to what legs.  What was okay and not okay for Luke and Elsa.  They are so smart. 

Like us, each is an individual.  Our relationships with friends are all different and so are theirs.  Time spent with their friends will be varied.  It is important to know what each accepts and make sure that your dog understands this. 

Leave a comment, I love to hear from you.

Space and human manners

Reaching for the button that opens the garage door; Elsa immediately comes to my side.  She knows that the door does not open unless I have a hold of her.  She makes me smile each time she rushes to my side, waiting for that door to open.  I grab hold of her harness and push the button.  Right outside the door is the driveway and then the road.  There could be any number of things out there; safety is my first concern.  We have neighborhood cats and should one be walking across the street when that door opens; I have no doubt that Elsa would be in hot pursuit. 

We were heading out in my hubby's truck last week.  As we exited the garage I saw a familiar woman and her dog coming down the street.  I got Elsa in the truck and was hooking her up when I heard from behind me "watch out, dog behind you."   I stopped what I was doing and turned around to see the dogs face by my leg.  Really?  I shot a glare at the woman and she continued on.  In my own driveway, while I was busy doing something; she thought is was necessary for her dog to come and say hi?

I do not intrude into other's space.  I truly do not understand what drives people to allow their dog to go to the end of the extension leash; up into my yard and see what I am doing.  Rules and boundaries are called for here. 

Another day, I was coming out my front door to run an errand. As I stepped out my door I was greeted by a yellow lab.  I very quickly closed the door behind me and locked it.  The guy, the owner was standing on my walkway while his dog perused my yard.   I stood looking at the dog and the owner until they got the "message." 

Space people, space. 

Yesterday I was out at Home Depot.  As I was putting my purchase in the truck I noticed a dog across the way.  I called out to the lady, asking if her dog was a poodle or doodle.  It was in fact a 3/4 x 1/4 sheepadoodle apparently.  She looked young and I asked if she was friendly.  The woman said "oh yes" and as I moved toward her the dog clearly said "no."  The dog's whole body went down and she reached out to have a quick sniff and move away.  I gave the dog space, we chatted a bit and they went on their way.  The dog needed space; either the owner didn't know or didn't care.  But she clearly needed and deserved it. 

It is completely rude and foolish to allow your dog to interrupt someone's day to day without asking or being invited.  Of course I love dogs, HELLO.  But just because I love dogs does not mean that I want someone else's dog on top of me when I am busy doing something.  Same goes for our dogs, give them the space that they require. I just don't get it. 

Leave a comment, I love to hear from you.  

Let's talk structure, again

 

Tilley could turn on a dime and fly with ease.  She had amazing structure.

Yesterday Elsa and I were stopped by a woman at the park.  She called out to me "beautiful" from afar and as she got close she asked "was she ever a show dog?"  I smiled because I have been asked this many times and as always the answer given was "nope."  Then the woman continued "I use to show and breed Dobies, she has an amazing gait."  "Really?" I asked and told her "I started my dog life in the ring with Dobies," and her interest was peaked.  "Really?" she asked.  We were both on our morning exercise walk so we were sort of talking and moving past each other.  She said again before we went our separate ways "beautiful gait."

Gait - a manner of walking, stepping, or running.

I'm all about movement; it is something that I find myself watching always.  I don't care what breed or mix a dog is, I like to see nice movement.  Nice movement to me means that a dog moves easily with structural soundness.  No it has nothing to do with a fancy pedigree.  It has to do with structure and if a breeder cares about it, then their puppies will likely be one of the lucky ones. 

It is truly mind boggling what has happened to many dogs at the hands of humans.  We have tweaked some breeds and mixes beyond recognition and continue to do so.  There are breeders who care more about a big winning ribbon than proper structure so a big show wins mean nothing to me.  Give me a dog that is built, one that moves much like the canine ancestor, the wolf. 

Why do we think that we can do better?  Let's take a big dog and give them 2" legs, or angle their back legs so much that they are no longer able to walk properly. Build a dog so that it looks like it is floating when it moves.  It is all very sad. 

No, Elsa is not a show dog but she is an amazing athlete.  She would not win a ribbon in the show ring but she's got structure, great structure for movement and I know this from simply watching her.  She is strong, she cannot jump like Tilley could but she could probably have out distanced her.  Tilley was more compact than Elsa.  Each is an individual.  Like us. 

A litter of wolf pups are not all identical.  There will be stronger pups, faster pups and pups that are more agile, but they will have proper structure.  If not, then they may not survive. 

Too many dogs today have poor structure.  Does it make them any less of a wonderful dog?  No.  What it does is make life more difficult for them in many ways.  Perhaps they cannot run like they should be able to.  Maybe they hurt from joint issues.  Or their body is failing them far before it's time.  It is all very sad.  What the hell are we doing?

Humans are breeding dogs and doing whatever they want.  The cute face with tiny legs, the sloped back (for what reason I don't know), the mixing of breeds to produce super puppies; and the lies to prospective buyers of perfection.  Taller, shorter, more coat, new rare colors, more angle, floating movement and more.  More and less and far from structurally sound. 

For each breed of dog there is a standard.  Show dogs are to come as close to that standard as possible.  But who writes all the standards?  Funny isn't it?  We humans are all very different and we are fine with that.  Fundamentally the same yet very different.  I am 5' 1" and I have a twin brother who is 6' tall.  But within a breed of dogs they are meant to all be the same or as close to what has been written as possible.  Hmmmmm?

I saw a photo of a dog yesterday; the dog's neck was so long that I was having a hard time getting my head around the logistics.  How could the neck be so long?  More is not better, not always.  Sometimes less is more.  Perhaps we should all take a good hard look at the wolf and see how far we have gone wrong.

No, Elsa is not a show dog.  Yes she does move beautifully; I could watch her move all day.  It is easy for her and I am happy for that.  She is structurally sound and that is what we should be giving our dogs. 

Destination anticipation

 

No more anticipation, destination reached; played with some dogs and met a horse, time to go home. 

I asked Elsa if she would like to go in the car (truck)?  She started to spin immediately; I don't really have to ask her, I know what the answer is already.  Of course she wants to go in the car.  Going in the car almost always leads to something good.  We were headed to the airport; Elsa and I were on our way to pick up my hubby.  I put her traveling harness on and hooked her up in the back seat of the truck.  Once we make the turn to get on the freeway she starts to get antsy.  She's not sure where we are going.

Elsa knows where her parks are and you don't get to them on the freeway.  She starts to pant, just a little at first; but then speeds up, shallow and fast.  It is her nerves, she's anxious, not crazy anxious, just a little. She's a need to know kind of gal, much like myself.   I remain calm, chatting away to her as I always do.  When we get about 30 seconds from picking Elsa's Dad up I let her know "we have to find Daddy."  Immediately her ears are up and she gets her search face on.  She is seriously looking for him.  As we pull up to the curb I let her know "there he is."  Her ears drop instantly and her tail starts.  She's found him, this was the mission.  She gives him lots of full teeth grins, wags like crazy and is then calm for the ride home.

Imagine if someone put you in a car, but you had no idea where you were going.  Weird eh?  Just think about it.  Lots of dogs are just happy to be in the car; they don't care where they are going or what they might be doing.  Not Elsa, she's a thinker and as such she likes to know.

Yesterday we were back in the truck, this time with her Dad.  Once again we pulled onto the freeway and the panting began.  No one else would probably notice it but I do, she's antsy.  "Where are we going" is what her back and forth searching says.  She knows somewhere new as soon as we make a turn where she has never been before.  When we finally get out, look around, visit or go for a walk; then everything changes, she's calm.  The ride home is always much more relaxed. 

When we do head out somewhere that Elsa recognizes, you can tell that too.  She definitely has a favorite park and when I make the turn that means we are going to "that" park she starts her chimpanzee talk.  She paces and yaks away excitedly until we get there.  Once we are there, she's calm. 

All dogs display how they are feeling through body language.  Some are easy reads, others are more stoic and subdued. Elsa is very demonstrative, she is extremely animated.  Nothing gets passed her and she is constantly watching as we drive; always searching for clues to our destination. 

Elsa has crossed the country, and back again.  She has taken some other big road trips and is out pretty much daily.  Still, every time she gets into the car; the search begins, looking for clues.  Not until we get to our destination or she recognizes our destination does she relax.  I love to watch her as she figures it out.  It doesn't take long for her to become familiar with a favorite route.  But every time we hit the freeway; the panting and pacing begins.  She's never sure where the freeway will take her.  Destination anticipation. 

Guilt, really?

Luke giving Penny feedback.  As soon as she moves away, he stops.  

"Oh look, he's hanging his head," "he knows that he is bad."  How many videos are there out there with supposed "guilt ridden" dogs?  Honestly, stop torturing your dogs people.  Several times each week, a video comes across my FB feed that leaves me shaking my head.  Dogs being misunderstood.  Whether it is simply a behavior that is being misread or the things that humans think are cute, it makes me crazy.  The guilty dog videos tug at my heart; I can't bear that the owners consider it funny or cute when they push their dog into submissive behaviors.

A grudge is something that dogs don't do.  Meaning that when they give feedback to others, it is instantaneous and then dropped once the message is received.  Humans do grudges, we prolong the agony, stretch out the anger and resentment.  But then we dish up the negative to get a video.  Many dogs will act submissive if you start saying "what did you do?" "Did you make this huge mess?"  Their behavior is given in attempt to stop your behavior.  It is not cute, adorable or a means of entertainment for us.

Using words or tones directed to your dog to achieve submissive or appeasement behaviors is WRONG.  When we humans think that it is cute and do it for fun is just SAD.  It causes confusion in our dogs and breaks down the bond that most work to attain.  You become a volatile canine guardian; one that your dog cannot trust.  They don't know how to act with you because you are unreliable.  STOP. 

If you need to give your dog feedback for some inappropriate behavior, do so and then stop.  Timing is everything with feedback.  If you do not catch a dog in the act of whatever it is that you don't like, do not give feedback.  Dog's learn through association, what works and what doesn't work.  We let them know what is not appropriate via feedback. 

I discuss this all in my new book Feedback For You And Your Dog.

As far as the videos of people shaming their dogs for fun, ratings or likes?  STOP.  Its not cute or funny, it is disgusting.  Before you laugh, think about the dog's role in it all.  Humans, honestly. 

One dog?

 

From the moment they met, there was a special connection.

This is really strange, having one dog I mean.  The last time that I had one dog, I was not married and I've been married for 30 years.  So yes, it is strange to have only one dog in our home.  I have to say that I'm not a fan.  Elsa came into our home as #4 pack member.  Two months later we were down to 3; then another three weeks later, there were only two.  Now there is just Elsa; and for her I am beyond grateful. 

 

The pack of three when Elsa joined as #4

I am often consulted on adding new dogs to packs.  Many times people want to know if they should get another dog; when they should get another dog and what they should get.  There are many questions to ask if you are pondering the decision.  My biggest recommendation is to only get a second dog if you really want a second dog.  This is typically the advice given to those who have not had two dogs before.  The decision for those who have had two previously is when? 

For me?  I love having two, three and four.  As you know my life revolves around dogs.  This most recent loss has been a difficult one; I feel like I would be good without another for a while.  That said, coming up to four week post loss I am feeling the absence of interaction and connection.  My biggest concern is Elsa.  She is not use to being alone and clearly does not like it.  She is fine and would adjust but I don't want her to adjust. 

My thoughts go to her as I sit at my computer working up photos from a shoot or writing for long hours.  There was not a great deal of action packed activity between Luke and her in the last months, but there was connection.  I was telling my son Brad, just last night how Luke had gotten the "let's play" look on him just two nights before the last.  His heart was still in the game but his body could not follow through.  So much of what Elsa is missing is the "just being" a part of a canine companionship. 

I am doing my best to get her out, switch things up and have friends over.  But she is missing a companion.  Sure I am her companion but I am not a dog, not by a long shot.  I cannot give her what she needs unless I find her a companion.  When I add a dog to our family, I want the best for that dog and every other dog that joins us.  I know she could deal, she would be fine and adjust; but that is not good enough for me.  I want her to be happy, really truly happy.  I don't like the feeling I get when I see her sitting alone.  

It will make me happy to see her happy.  It always makes me happy to see my dogs having a good time, enjoying life.  That can mean having fun with other dogs, going for a walk just with me or a new adventure.  But life is about sharing; it is always better with someone you love by your side.  She has us but she needs a special canine by her side as well.  Elsa needs someone and I am searching the universe for that man.

Leave a comment, I love to hear from you.     

In home euthanasia

Since Luke's passing I have wanted to share our experience with you; perhaps shedding some light on home euthanasia.  It goes without saying that all home euthanasia's will not be the same.  We were very lucky that ours was very good.  Luke's specialist gave us two numbers to call when the time came, which she knew was near.  I also called another of our Veterinarians for a recommendation.  He gave me one name and it was one of the two that my specialist had given us.  With the information at hand I visited the website of one, Home Pet Euthanasia.  I yelped the service and the same Vet. came up with 5 stars. 

When the time came and it came fast, I made the call and asked questions.   They asked very few questions, only what was needed and the appointment was made.  We had never had a home euthanasia; all of our dogs before had been emergency situations.  But it is still not a great place to say good bye.  My husband and I had discussed saying good bye to Luke and we had decided to go with home.  It was all about Luke and we wanted him to slip away peacefully. 

Thursday January 15th we said good bye.  The day before I had rushed Luke to the vet as he wavered and could not get up.  His liver mass had gotten unbelievably huge, very fast and was now bleeding.  The cancer had also moved to his lungs causing him to cough.  The said "things have changed drastically."  We talked in detail about when.  If I needed to do it right then, I would.  I am not one of those who keeps my dogs around just for me.  With the Vets recommendation and blessing I took him home to dote on him as much as we could.  We also discussed that a decision would need to be made very soon.   It was the end.

Luke rallied somewhat with drugs that were given to him to slow the bleeding process.  He even peed and pooped that morning and ate his breakfast like a champion.  My husband and I spent the entire day with him.  I fed him everything that he loved; chips, fishies, two full packages of turkey cold meat, homemade cookies, you name it.   He ate everything.  But he was weak, it was inevitable.  By 1:00 that afternoon the decision was made.  We did not want Luke to suffer, nor did we want him to rupture like Tilley had and end up in the ER.  I made the call, the call that no one wants to make. 

Dr. Forslund arrived on time.  I had no idea what to expect, we'd never done this before.  But from the moment she entered our home I knew we had made the right decision.  She gave me a huge hug as soon as we met and she brought with her a peaceful sort of Zen.  She met my husband, giving he a very meaningful hug as well.  Then she met Luke, she'd already met Elsa at the front door.  She carried a blanket and tiny wooden stool with her that I wondered about until she tucked it under her legs as she knelt to talk to Luke.  We talked a long time, she listened. 

She listen and gave us time; we had the time we needed and never felt rushed.  Every question was answered and our whole home fell peaceful.  Even Elsa was quieter than normal.  We talked about where Luke should leave us.  "His spot" on the couch was chosen.  Steve and I had taken the whole day to say our good byes, it was time.  We set him on the couch, made him comfortable and his leg was shaved for the iv.  Moments later Luke decided he wasn't comfortable and wanted down.  We let him down and he staggered out to the yard and peed.  I smiled knowing how much he loved his yard, his domain.  Then the spot was changed, it would be done on Luke's lounge.  The place he loved to sit for hours and keep watch over his domain.  Dr. Forslund moved everything outside without blinking.  When we were not in discussion with her, it was like she was not there; except for the peaceful aura she brought with her. 

Everything was explained before she did anything and at each step.  Luke left us on his lounge.  With his head resting in his Momma's hand, his Dad stroking his head and Elsa by his side.  There was a peacefulness about the entire process and when he left it was with the same quiet peace.  Every dog parent wants their dog to die peacefully in their sleep.  Sadly that is rare.  This was the very last act of love we could give our boy. 

It was far more peaceful than I had anticipated.  If you are considering home euthanasia, do your research.  I have heard some not so great things about the process but ours was wonderful.  It is a very sad time but the transition can be made easier by kindness and compassion.  Dr. Forslund was wonderful. 

Dr. Forslund had told us how important it was for Elsa to be there.  She said that there is a very brief moment of realization for them.  A second after Luke passed we called Elsa to him, she sniffed for only a second and was taken back.  Dr. Forslund, asked "did you see that?"  Of course I had, it was the moment that Elsa knew.  From that moment she kept her distance, moving in now and again to sniff.  When the time came to take Luke to her vehicle Elsa did panic as Luke was wrapped up and carried out.  She sniffed him madly and then ran up to my office to watch as he was placed in her van. 

Elsa did not look for him although she did wait at the door on Friday evening.  I imagine just hoping that he was coming back.  Since then she has been sad but not looked for him.  It was important for her to see what happened.  And now we try to move on. 

 Leave a comment, I love to hear from you. 

How many is too many?

Sifting through puppy pages, I have come across many with too many.  Breeders with puppies being born month after month.   When I find a breeder who has puppies born October, November, December, January and February I very quickly leave.  No, I am not supporting someone who is pumping out puppies by the hundreds.  How many is too many? 

First, I think there is a limit to how many dogs a breeder should have.  Many boast about their "breeding facility."  What?  No.  Dogs belong in our home.  The same goes for dogs who are having puppies, have had puppies and those puppies who are getting big.  Yes, in the home; not in a facility built specifically for the mass production.  

Some breeders have "breeder" dogs out living with families.  The dog comes back to the breeder to have puppies and once the puppies are weaned and/or placed; the female goes back to living with her family.  I like this arrangement if it is done properly.  Few breeders keep studs around.  I know many breeders who just don't want to deal with the boys so they go out to stud.  Of course this is a good way to support genetic diversity.  (If of course, the breeder supports this in their stud choices.)

There are just too many dogs out there.  I love when breeders only breed when they have a waiting list.  A litter can be partially or completely gone before it even arrives.  This of course is the best way to do it.  When a breeder just keeps breeding and breeding and breeding; they can end up with a lot of over flow.  This can result in the money making breeder, letting go of their goods for less and with little concern for where they are going.  

How many is too many?  The question has many answers.  Relating to adult dogs living in a home; one must look at what they can offer as care, nutrition and attention.  Litters of puppies?  That can be answered by a waiting list.  For those breeders out there who are pumping puppies out, assembly line style.  PLEASE STOP.  The goal should be quality, not quantity.  

The rule of zzzzz's

 

Elsa, snuggling with my protection pillow. 

Many do it,  Some should, some shouldn't.  Sleeping with dogs.  I awoke this morning before 5am, it was still dark out and I was stuck.  Elsa had wiggled her way down to my legs and was completely on top of me from my knees down.  There was no turning around or moving at all so I asked her to please change her position.  She did without question and curled back up with a deep sleepy moan. 

Elsa is sleeping with me now.  The rule use to be, not until morning.  You see Elsa is one of those 600 lb sleepers.  I was talking to a friend yesterday about her newest family member who as it turns out is also a 600 lb sleeper.  I'm not sure what causes this poundage but I'm thinking perhaps, muscle.  Elsa is solid muscle.  She is also a snuggle monster, never happy with just being beside me.  No, she needs to be touching in a big way.  So before Luke's passing she would sleep with him on their giant bed and join me in the morning so that I could get some sleep. 

With Luke now gone I can hardly ask her to sleep alone.  So I have set up a pillow, strategically placed to ensure that we both sleep.  I have a long body pillow beside me that Miss Elsa can use as her snuggle platform instead of me.  She is not always satisfied with it and like this morning will find the living being under the covers to snuggle with.  Sometimes it is my head, feet or she just clambers over the pillow to get to me somewhere, somehow. 

So many trainers and behavior specialist will say NO to sleeping with your dog.  I have a few rules as far as allowing your dog up on the bed, your bed. 

1.  They need to ask first.  If you are in the bed, then your dog should be given permission to come up or not. 

2.  Your dog should get off if asked, quickly and politely. 

3.  There should be no complaining about being moved or pushed around on the bed from your dog.  You of course can complain.  :)  

4.  If you are dealing with any issue with regards to who the actual boss is in the house, no bed. 

You see, the bed, your bed is prime real estate; and as such the leader of the pack (which should be you) gets first dibs on it.  I have spoken to many people who laugh when telling me that their dog growls when they come into bed at night.  Not funny at all.  If your dog growls at being physically moved or pushed around on the bed, then they should not be on the bed.  What they are telling you is "the lower members do not move the leader."  It is a clear signal that needs adjustment.  Sometimes simply keeping your dog off of your bed can change a lot of problems.

Our bed rule pertains to when we are in it.  During the day Elsa is free to be on the bed when she wants.  But, she must always get off quickly if asked.  If that changes then the bed rule would change.  Just like Luke had his "prime real estate" position on the couch.  He enforced it with my help.  A simple look from him or word "watch out" from me would move anyone in his spot.  That spot which has now been taken over by Elsa. 

Our bed is about the best thing that we own.  Having a good night sleep is very important and as long as your dog follows the rules then everyone can dog pile on it.  :)  

The fog is lifting

This was the last visit to the beach.  

As I sit here blogging, the fog is lifting, literally.  As far as the fog in my head?  Well, that will need another cup of java to lift.  It's really foggy this morning, as it was yesterday morning.  I love fog, not to drive in of course but to shoot in. Fog is an amazing background for photos.  The same image taken with and without fog are completely different.

An excerpt from And Back Again

The foggy day was filled with emotional photographs. It is funny how adding fog can provide so much feeling to a photo. Mask much of the surrounding scene by a cloak of fog and the result is emotion. Some of my very favorite photos from that beach in Connecticut were taken on that day.

Watching the fog lift this morning has brought me back to the beach in CT.  The last trip that we would take to the beach.  Luke and Elsa had a great run and I remember the day like it was yesterday.  Luke had stepped up on that day as Elsa's hero and the communication between the two had been magical to see.  They were in it together, thrown together at just the right moment in life.  Their bond would become unbreakable until death.  

I can see Luke's happy open mouth as he headed my way down the beach.  Then he'd be gone to socialize with the next dog that emerged from the fog once again.  Luke loved to greet everyone on the beach and Elsa was always close behind.  She ran circles around Luke; he was the steady pace maker and she, the crazy puppy.  She learned a great deal from that man of hers; important things about life and being in it.  Hopefully these life lessons will be passed onto her next life partner and I will stand in awe at the amazingness of a canine.  

The fog has now lifted and I am back to the here and now.  

And Back Again - available in ebook.  

Leave a comment, I love to hear from you.  

Smarts

We were on our way to the park; rounding the corner I told Elsa that we might see some of her friends.  I said "maybe Oaklee?" and she immediately dropped her head in search.  While she searched I added "maybe Hank or Zoey will be there?"  She tilted her head at the mention of each friend's name and smiled that huge smile of hers.  So I threw in another name "maybe Gia will be there," I told her.  She immediately gave me a snort/bark with attitude.  I couldn't believe it.  This dog is not a friend, yet.  Gia is a dog that I am trying to work Elsa in with.  The dog is large and black with a curled up tail, that Elsa is not comfortable around.  We had our first walk together last week that went well but she does  not consider her a friend.  Elsa's friends are in her circle of trust and she knows them very well by name.  I work hard at putting names on dogs and people as well as teach her a huge vocabulary.  She's a smartie.  

Last week Elsa and I headed out to the airport to pick up my husband.  As we drew near I told her that we had to "find Daddy."  Her whole body changed as soon as the words were out of my mouth.  She started to wag, dropped her head in search mode.  She knows what "find" means.  I have taught this to all of my dogs; of course some learn it better than others.  Tilley was my other great finder of things. 

When we are out at the park and doing our chuck it action, Elsa seldom misses.  If she happens to miss the location of a toss from the Chuck it, then we immediately go into "find" mode. As soon as I say find, she starts to search.  I help her with directional points which she watches for.  She's a smartie. 

Our dogs are far smarter than most give them credit.  Their intelligence is intense and the more you teach them the more they learn.  I hate to see dogs that don't know anything.  Not because they aren't smart or can't learn; but because no one took the time to teach them.  Would we consider sending our children out into the world without educating them. Never.  But we often leave our dogs without much information when we ask them to walk with us through our human world. 

Today Elsa's friends are coming over again.  Yogi and Lucy will be visiting.  Elsa had so much fun with them last week, it was like a party the whole time they were here.  So I will tell her as the time draws near.  I don't like to tell her too far out because then she may doubt what I tell her in the future.  About 3 min. before their arrival I will let her know.  First I will tell her that friends are coming over.  That alone stops her in her tracks and she is all ears.  Then the names will come and the excitement will begin.  She will be on very happy and tired girl today; and that is a great thing. 

Leave a comment, I love to hear from you. 

Moving and muscle

The more muscle, the easier it is to move.  

Dirt makes great traction.

Puppies should not be on a slippery surface.  Every once in a while is one thing but on a day to day they should not be.  Why?  Because they don't have the muscle to protect their joints from damage.  Wolf puppies are raised in the wild which means dirt; dirt has good traction for little toes.  When I watch videos of puppies crawling around on a slippery surface; looking very much like little seals, I shudder.  Muscle is important!

Puppies don't have enough built up muscle to protect their joints from the injury of slipping and sliding.  Even adult dogs should not be on slippery surfaces when being very active.  How many people slip and pull ACL, MCL or some other injury?  When playing you should choose a non slip surface.  Leg injuries suck.

When you have a litter of puppies or your very own little puppy, keep them on non slip.  Not everything smooth is slippery.  Different surfaces have a range of slip risks.  But if your puppies are slipping and sliding, get some carpet, fake grass or whatever for them to be running around on.  By giving them a traction capable surface you are helping them to build muscle.  Muscle that will protect their little joints.  I am a huge muscle fan, both for dogs and humans.  Lifting-for-life.blogspot.com

I hate to see dogs with no muscle.  It can mean two things, they have little muscle genetically or they don't move enough.  Even when a dog is not given a lot of muscle genetically; you can build a lot just by exercise and feeding good food.  Elsa is very muscled which makes me very happy.  She is well protected from injury and as she ages and naturally loses muscle, she has lots to spare. 

Everyone needs  muscle, even our dogs and especially our puppies.  Joints on their own are only so good, they need muscle built around them for protection.  If you have a puppy or a litter of puppies, get some traction under them.  A few steps here and there on a slippery surface is okay but no playing on a slippery surface.  Get them outside in the dirt, there is lots of traction there.  Traction helps to build muscle. 

For the adult dog/dogs in your life?  Get some muscle on that dog to help protect their joints.  

Leave a comment, love to hear from you.   

Shades of Amber

I have to admit that I love amber (semi precious gemstone).  It is the natural aspect of it that is amazing.  Fossilized tree resin, pretty cool.  This blog has nothing to do with actual amber but watching these three play made me think of it and all of the glorious shades that can be found.

A pile of amber, dive in.

Elsa was so very excited to have her friends over; she didn't know who to play with first.

Elsa giving Lucy a chomp with Yogi coming up in the rear for his own chomp.  Lucy and Elsa get along great and play well but.  Lucy likes it a bit calmer but Yogi on the other hand. is all in.  

I just thought this was gorgeous with both Lucy and Yogi's tail plumes.  Elsa's tip can be seen in the back. 

I just love this "slice of life" image. 

Lucy was a bit jealous of Elsa and Yogi's play; after all he's still pretty new and very handsome. 

So much attention for a little man.  (Yogi is 7 months old.)

Making sure everyone knows who Yogi belongs to. 

Love Lucy's expression, she is just the sweetest Golden.  

Happy, maybe just a little. 

This photo sums up Lucy's personality.  She spotted me on the ground with my camera and came running.  

Picture perfect.  

Yes, they are BFFs.

Such a handsome little devil, who knows it.  

Girls seeking attention.  

And that's a wrap.  Resting once again on Mom's lap.  Yes, very much still a baby.  

A dog is a dog

A dog is a dog and a mutt is healthier than a purebred.    This is a common misperception and it is true and false.  I can see you all now, reading with your mouth hanging open.  Before you jump to conclusions, read on.  Dogs are dogs as far as the heart and soul of a canine.  From the tiniest 5lb pocket pooch to the 200 pound giants that walk amongst us, they are all dogs.  Whether they have very little fur, are covered in large quantities, have a long and slender faces or nearly no face at all, they are all dogs.  What is the same about each and every one is their dogness, that amazingness that can only be dog. 

The false part of the opening statement is that mutts are healthier than purebreds.  A blanket statement like that has and is thrown around all the time.  Many people say to me "oh, I want a mutt, they are healthier," or "I don't want a show dog, I just want a dog."  Well, I don't want a show dog either but I would like a healthy dog. 

You see, I have talked to people who have gone with mutts and I know many people who choose purebreds and unfortunately both sides have sad, sad stories.  Illnesses that plague dogs whether or  not they are mutts or purebreds.  What it comes down to is us, that's right, humans.  It is all on us and how much we are willing to do; are we committed to get rid of or reduce illness and disease in our dogs?  There are environmental issues that can cause illness but much of it rides on genetics and that is solely on us.  Canine genetics and health testing. 

Unlike many people, I am not horrified by the idea of mixing breeds.  What I am horrified and disgusted in, is the lack of concern for the dogs.  Whether dogs are mix or purebred, we (as in humans) should only be breeding the best.  Sadly I know many people who turn a blind eye when health issues arise.  They continue to breed dogs who have less than robust health and/or temperaments.  This is the problem, bottom line. 

Did the guy down the street who bred his beagle to the neighbors Pug do health testing?  Pretty doubtful.  Do Puppy Millers test for anything?  No, they don't care about health or anything else other than money in their pocket.  Do all purebred breeders who show their dog's test for health?  Nope. 

The whole matter is quite complicated and if you would like to really understand it all you must have an open mind.  Many people just shut down when the topic of purebred vs. mutt comes up.  They may have their own opinion and cannot fathom anything that strays from that.  My own opinion on purebred vs. mutt is a little more straight forward; health, testing, concern for our dogs. 

Being that my own breed is one of the most fluffed and sprayed breeds out there, much rides on appearance.  But to find what you are looking for as far as health; you have to get through all the fancy clips and fluff and get to the core.  Are we doing the best for our dogs concerning health?  Some are, some are not.  Just because a dog looks amazing and struts through a ring with Judge approval does not make that dog a healthy one. 

Looking at dogs 100 years from now, it could go either way.  Let's face it, human intervention is at play here.  How many dogs do we need?  Well, a lot less than are out there for sure.  As we manipulate "man's best friend," are we doing what is best for them?  I for one think dogs are amazing just because they are dogs.  But if we love them so much, shouldn't we do what is best for them?  So that we can live long and happy lives together?  I think so.

Leave a comment, I love to hear from you.    

Me and Elsa

Two weeks ago we lost our amazing, one of a kind Luke.  I don't want to dwell on his loss, his absence has left a huge void in my life.  What I'd like to talk about is the aftermath and where Elsa and I are today.  Perhaps just sharing our feelings and emotions might help others who are dealing with loss. 

Elsa is most definitely suffering from the loss.  She is happy and upbeat when we are busy but it is the quiet moments throughout the day when I see it.  She spends a great deal of time in "his spot" on the couch.  She's sighs a lot throughout the day.  I often see her lay out on the double lounge (Luke's lounge) with her head up smelling the breeze, then quickly drop her head down, letting out a big sigh.  She is still hesitating at meal time when her bowl is not the second one down.   Her sit is just a fraction of a second slower as she is still waiting for the first bowl to go down before hers. 

When we are out she is good.  I always talk and write about one on one time. If I can drive home a message that is so very important, it is this.  Elsa has always had a great deal of one on one which helps her now when there is no choice but to be just us.  If you have two, three, four or more dogs who are always together, never having experienced being alone in the world; then this time when there is no option can be made even worse.

Probably one of the most important things that Elsa is use to other than going out alone is being left alone.  Going out alone is one thing, being left behind another.  So having been used to being left behind when Luke and I went out has given her life experience that she calls upon now.  She needs to be okay being alone.  I make sure to go out each day, even if I have no where to go, I go.  I hit the gym in the morning which she is very use to but not the alone part while I'm at the gym, that is new.   Then at some time in the afternoon or early evening I go out and do errands or just go out.  When I return I make sure to not make a big deal of it.  Separation anxiety can begin after a loss like this so leaving and coming home needs to be done strategically. 

The house is quiet, too quiet. 

I too am dealing.  Loss is a very personal thing; no one can tell you how to deal, how long or anything else about it.  Every single relationship is different, so to is loss.  Keeping busy is good, but all of the stages of grief are a part of getting through it.  Allowing the tears and sadness to come is an important step towards the hurt, hurting less.  It's got to come, you must let the grieving happen.  I know far too well what keeping it all bottled up can create.  You must deal with all of the emotions or risk a meltdown at some point.  (after the loss of Tilley, explained in And Back Again)

I make sure that Elsa has a great deal of touch in her days.  As you all know she was constantly wrapped around Luke throughout her entire life, until now.  Yesterday she did her "get off the computer" routine in my office which made me smile.   She rolls onto her back and wags like crazy, snorting and wiggling like a fish.  Of course it always gets me off the computer and onto the floor with her.  We spent a great deal of time there on the floor helping each other. 

Timing is everything, nothing could be more true than that with the addition of Elsa to our lives, 3.5 years ago.  Thank goodness for Elsa.  So here we are again.  Back in the fall we had been considering the addition of a puppy; we had a choice to make when a puppy was available.  We declined that puppy.  I knew my time might be short with Luke and chose to give him all the care and time I could offer him.  Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made as was adding Elsa to our very old pack when I did.  

To the person who added the little boy to their life that we passed on; I hope that you have a long, amazing and happy life together.  For some reason he was meant to be in your life, like Luke was mine.  Timing is everything.

So with time, another will come.  I am looking, yes, but I am not ready right now.  Elsa and I will get through this.  I would love to offer her a puppy right now, at this very moment to call her own but I am afraid that I am not ready.  This has been a tough one for me, the toughest loss so far in all of my dogs.  I have always been ready to open my heart to a new family member right away.  It will be a while this time, and when the time comes to meet the next wonderful little man in my life, it will be the right time. 

Leave a comment, I love to hear from you.