A day in the life...

I know....the above video is just shocking....
On the second day of summer the temperature and humidity rise and these poor dogs....wow I have tears in my eyes....these poor dogs are being forced to cool down by running through the water hose....then sadly....I just cannot believe I have witnessed such a thing....they then can be seen rolling in the wet grass to lower their body temperature.

With your help....We CAN change that. By sending in a Small donation money can be raised to help these dogs get a pool. Never again will they have to roll in the wet grass to cool down....the next time they roll in the grass I hope....really hope that it will be to dry themselves off.
Hard to believe....in this day and age that there are still people who force their dogs to live this way.
Please, Please help them....skip your daily run to Starbucks....I mean really....look at those faces....they are counting on you!

Urgent....Your help is needed....

Having turned fifty something I must share with you....getting older sucks ;-)
I mean really....gravity does indeed take hold and it becomes such a struggle to keep things where they belong...or as near where they belong for as long as possible.

That is just the physicality of aging...if one allows the mind to age...you are doomed....
OK, not doomed just not very much fun....boring, you get the picture.
Sadly, so many of us allow our child within to wither and fade away.
Those of us surrounded by children, and or pets have the key to unlocking the child within right at our fingertips.

With children...all I have to say on this matter is turn off the TV, PC and hide all the techno games....head outside to run, climb jump (if like me your over fifty...just not too high)...finger paint....so messy and soooo much fun.

Back in the day (always wanted to write that) when I worked with people and their canine companions one of the first things I learned in watching people and their dogs interact is that many did not know how to "play" with their dogs. An attempt at picking up a ball or Frisbee...tossing it and if the dog did not retrieve, the game ended as the human walks away saying s/he just does not like to play. How very sad for the dog, more sad for the human.

I actually taught a group classes all about dog play...fun was mandatory. Several individuals (both human and canine) struggled through this four week group course....though I must share with you it was so heart warming to watch those of the most serious, again...both human and canine learn to relax and enjoy one another.

It is scientifically proven that the more of an idiot your canine friends can make you look....the more fun you will both have....really, scientifically proven ;-) As proven by the above video made for this posting. hey guys...I am the camera person and the one hiding for the dogs to find.

OK...these are just a couple of the silly games I play with my dogs...hide n seek. Gemma...loves this game and has so honed her skill at finding me...no matter where I hide....though once in a while she is a bit off.
Niki just seems to tag along with the Goldens as they run back and forth, back and forth. I could hide in the very same spot three times in a row and they much prefer the "hunt" and never seem to want the game to end. When they find me....oh happy day!
One wonders if sometimes they do it more for me for clearly they know exactly where I am.

Down stay as I hide a few treats or toys about the room, or outside. Oh boy....we are having some fun now.....oh, chase and be chased....Niki loves this, especially if I growl at her as I am chasing her.

I remember as though it was yesterday...my beloved Tasha, a bit serious...loved treat games and there was this one silly little thing we did when she was a puppy that she just never out grew...from puppy to senior. I would use a comforter folded up at the front window, this window was low to the ground, so low in fact she would rest her head on the window ledge while napping. I would often sit with her...both of us looking out the window...I would slowly put my hands under the comforter and just wiggle my hands and fingers around....she would get so very excited hitting with her paws, nibbling at my hands still under the blanket...silly little game that she so enjoyed and that made me chuckle each and every time!

Another of our favorites is agility. One does not have to spend any money, just being creative as you put a small course together....outside furniture can be used...chairs for having the dog crawl under, blocks for jumping and or climbing. PVC is found at all local home builders stores...weave poles can be made, jumps, etc.
The best thing about these games, they are interactive. Yes, there are so many toys to help your dog play by themselves, keeping them mentally stimulated, however the games that are interactive are the ones you will find your inner child and your dogs inner pup....and I guarantee there will be lots of tail wagging, and laughter.

Want to share a game you play with your dog, cat, bird, horse? Create a short video, become fans of Rocky & Bailey on Facebook and share it with us, I will post the most fun games here on the blog...the one rule is there must be lots of tail wagging and laughter ;-) On your mark...get set....go!



"The great pleasure of a dog is that you may make a fool of yourself with him and not only will he not scold you,but he will make a fool of himself too.

The child within...

**** Pumpkin has been found...she is safe and will soon be returned to her favorite people.

Pumpkin is a lovely Golden pup that is missing. Last seen in her own yard wandering about in her safe, enclosed fence.
Please, share the above flier, pass it on to all that you may know. She is micro-chipped.

Pet safety...
mirco-chip your pets. Keep your furry friends safe....if not well trained keep them on leash if no fence. Sadly....in many neighborhoods across the US our children are not safe to play outside without supervision....neither are our pets.

I take my pack out several times a day....supervised outings only....yep....time consuming...if nice bring a book....get some fresh air...bond with your furry friend...keep them safe.

Good wishes, vibes, prayers going out that Pumpkin is returned to her loving family....safe and sound!!!

Help find Pumpkin...

"I hear the creaking of a floor board
And the squeak of a distant door
There's something coming down the hallway
But I can't say anymore
I fear that it might hear me
I can barely take a breath
My heart is beating wildly
And I'm scared half to death
I wonder what it could be
A Monster from under the bed
Or maybe it's nothing really
And just a Monster in my head"

If like you you are not fond of little creatures taking up residence in your home the above image will indeed freak you out. Taken a few days ago near Niki's crate.

It started out with one...not a biggie, then another...then another to as of last count a total of six scorpions found...and yes one was found under my bed, not really a monster but like the above children's poem...try going to sleep knowing there crawling under, maybe, just maybe....in the bed with you!

The good news, they are not poisonous. I did happen to read somewhere that if allergic to bee stings you could have adverse effects, though this is not at all common. The bad news....a sting HURTS....so I am told and I realllly do not want to find out.

So, since a family of scorpions is indeed taking up residence, what to do?? In my research I found there really is nothing you can do....you can of course spray your house, however unless spraying directly on to the scorpion it will not really help. Now, how the heck are they getting in....went around to all entry ways that have little gaps and placed a powder down. I also read that having a black light is very handy for scorpions will light up (glow) under the light. If you have a nest....I read to use your black light and go collecting at night for this is really the only way to get control of a large population around one's home.

Hmmmm, got me to thinking...

Sounds like a great game so the next few weeks I will be inviting several family members and Friends over....feed them....give them a few drinks once I notice that they are a bit.....impaired... send them out into the night with a black light, tweezers and jar....what fun!
Wanna come for dinner ???

The below clips are just some yard time this afternoon....the pups are loving the fenced yard and my poor hands and wrists are getting a much needed break...enjoy ;-)

There's a monster under my bed...

During a phone conversation with a dear friend yesterday we got onto the topic of travel....
It is no secret to my family and friends...I have a terrible fear of flying. I used to have the ability to force myself to get on a plane....but then one day I just could no longer muster the strength.
I cannot explain the fear...it is more of a feeling of being boxed in, closed in...tight, claustrophobic.
As there are a few places I would love to travel...well at 50ish this is something that I will soon have to seriously work on...but that is a topic for another day.

I guess I am a bit of a homebody. I prefer to be surrounded by my family, friends....which of course consists of my four dogs.
As my friend and I discussed travel she was telling me of her planned trips the next few months. While I can stand and often enjoy several days without my dogs....I truly miss them if any more then that.
For those that do travel if you are fortunate enough to have found someone to care for your furry friends you are indeed so lucky.
My crew, well just not an easy pack to care for. The Goldens....piece of cake...feed, hug, pet... throw the ball and take for a walk....easy. the "Girls", well not so easy. Niki is indeed a handful....you have to make sure her bladder is empty (by manually squeezing her bladder....not as bad as it sounds). Since Gemma. is very fearful...well I would indeed need someone that was very dog savvy.

As our conversation progressed I questioned any concerns she might have about the care of her pets when she was gone. It was not meant to be taken as judgement, just a question for it was mentioned the one cat was indeed so very attached and during my friends absence behavioral issues occur that require time and patience once she returns from her trips.
As my friend was doing quite a bit of travel, with more planned I really was just wondering...
the reply was she could not live for her pets, especially this one cat.

I smiled for I knew my question was taken wrong...no worries we are indeed good friends and have known each other a lonnng time. I stated that I did indeed live my life for my dogs....with four one has to make sure there is enough money for medical care....well really....they are accustomed to a certain lifestyle ;-) The installment of the fence was for them to safely have freedom...yes, I would say I live for my pets...for my two legged friends and family...and of course just for me ;-)

I often plan my vacations so that they include my furry friends. When Niki was first injured we did have a choice....and it was an easy one to make. I was full aware of the care that she would need for however long she lived....we could put her to sleep...or surgery and lots of care for many years to come. I love her, my husband adores her....it was easy... I have no regrets...I do however get tried.....I am human and there have been times I lost my patience....I do have days where I so wish I were a better, more patient individual...pray for a Calgon moment (I know...my age is showing).
This is one of life's many little secret gifts...she (Niki ...my little cky mix) is teaching me and maybe, maybe before I die I will get it!

So...yes...I live for many things...and my dogs are indeed a part of that....what about you, do you live for your furry Friends?
One of My favorite quotes"
Dogs are not my whole life, but they make my life whole ;-)

Living your life for your pets???

That is unless your one of my dogs.
After four long months of daily leash walks, potty runs....finally the fence was installed.
The guys worked on the fence until about 6 today....then packed up and left. I walked around picking up after them, then, even though not yet complete let the dogs out two at a time. It really does not take much to make them happy....a walk, a belly scrtach....give them some room to run, romp and throw a tennis ball....now that is happiness...another good day ;-)

Don't fence me in...

August 2008:
Yes....it is true. After all of these years I finally have the ability to admit that I am a Chocoholic.
My first meeting is this evening....wouldn't you know, first thing this morning the doorbell rang and when I opened the door, there in front of me was this large box marked GODIVA Chocolatier.....
I was shocked!
I wonder how they learned about the meeting....they must be watching me...
I grabbed the box very quickly and slammed the door shut. Ran to all of the windows and closed all of the blinds. I opened the box about two hours ago and my stomach is is so bloated and the pain is unbelievable. I must get rid of all of the evidence....I first tore the boxes in tiny shreds....now what to do with the chocolate....it was tough, but I managed to eat all of it...
I am too ill to attend the meeting this evening, maybe I'll make the next one.

August 2009:
I no longer attend any of the Chocoholic meetings...I knew one day I just may regret my decision.While personally, I do not ever think you can be "cured" I do believe the need, want and desire to have chocolates lessens with each passing day. I was almost leading a normal life in that I could actually open my blinds... leave my house, shop and visit friends and family homes without any fear of having an "episode" where I would do anything to get to a piece of chocolate. Hell, I would knock my own mother down to get just a sniff, taste of it!
I am so embarrassed to share that, but I know that for a fact for I
actually did it. Yes, I know the cravings and feeling of desperation all too well.

I almost made it...I was well on my way....that is until today...
Damn Godiva!
I am not at all sure how they learned of my progress, but they would do anything in their power to have me fall off the wagon...
At 1: 12 pm this afternoon, Wed. 8-5-09 there was a knock at the front door. I had this uncomfortable feeling in the pit of my stomach as I approached my front door and peeked out and saw the UPS truck in my driveway....the driver... was laughing hysterically while watching me...the hair on my neck and arms stood up as thoutgh electricity was surging through my body. As I opened the front door before looking down I noticed I was already salivating....I knew, I just knew... before actually seeing the box stamped with Godiva Choclatier....

So now....once again my house is dark, all windows and doors are locked....
the only evidence is the stickiness of my keyboard from my fingers...my tummy hurts for I have eaten all biscuits....as have I devoured every last morsel of the powdered hot chocolate....and still I crave more...god help me.

Thank You Donna...for the early Birthday present...it is yummy!!!
Godiva makes the best Biscuits and Hot Chocolate :-)

Chocoholics Anonymous...

Once locals learn that you will soon be a permanent resident of FL they cannot help but share the many tales of the local
wildlife....especially about the snakes and alligators. Of course the stories do have merit, just a few weeks ago one guy woke up and decided to do some gardening. He headed to the Walmart located off of US 1 to purchase some plants and supplies. He wandered around putting Items Into his cart, just as he was reaching for a plant....tucked behind the plant he was reaching for was a pygmy rattler and sadly for the man, he Indeed was bitten.

I listen to most of the stories and smile for I just may never encounter any of the poisonous snakes....however being surrounded by water....chances that the dogs and I actually run I\into something....well the odds that we do increase due to the fact we are surrounded by water.

When walking my neighborhood we pass a section that is very woodsy and has a sign that says "Natural Preserves"....meaning swamp land ;) As of yet the only creatures I have seen come out of this area is very large birds. It is not bad enough being told about the gators and snakes I have been told there are wild hogs, not seen any of those either....and would prefer not to for they can be very aggressive. I am not a national geographic photographer and while I love to photograph nature...getting that close and personal I can do without...this Is the reason I purchased a long lens ;-)

There are times when just taking the dogs for a quick pee has been challenging for they will spy, sense, smell something in the woods and appear frightened...more often then not I respect their senses...sometimes though, they are a little off...

Since moving Into the house, once night falls Rocky makes several trips to the door next to my studio, he growls, and growls. This has become a nightly activity....the first, second and sometimes third time he does this all the dogs take part by rushing the door, hackles up...barking ready to defend Rocky, territory, After a while, they do not bother, though Rocky continues to guard, scare away something only he sees.

The first few nights that this behavior first appeared I would put the outside lights on, look out to see what the fuss was about...never noticed anything. I have a sneaking suspicion he Is actually growling at his own reflection ;-)
Yesterday I finally got around to hanging something to cover the glass in the door...stays open during the day for I love the light coming through, however once dusk, I close it....worked like a charm for while he went to the door a couple of times he returned without a sound.

When we leave the house, before walking off the patio I do my best to survey If anything is in the grass....survey the woods out back....see nothing we all leave the covered patio where we risk getting bitten up by a horrible...sneaky and nasty critter, the mosquito. Some day's they are not a bother, other days they are
terrible....just like It was when we stayed at the beach house.

Bailey loves to roll around in the grass and every time he does this....even though before coming back inside I run my hands through his coat....attached to him Is usually a little lizard. That keeps me busy for I then must around trying to catch and release back In the yard.
On occasion a frog will also find his way inside....the tree frogs like to suction themselves on anything that does not move....especially the glass....around all windows and doors, lots of frog and lizard poop...even on the glass...frog art!






Two weeks ago...a lovely Sunday afternoon I took Niki out for a stroll around the yard...she got to play touch and kick ball...just as we were headed back to the patio I stopped for I thought I saw something in
the water. Now, I have Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis and inflammation can effect your vision, and it has In my case. Adding to the problem is the fact as we age we have a difficult time focusing...my vision at times is very blurry even with my glasses. so...on this lovely sunny, summer afternoon I was pretty certain I was watching an alligator lazily floating in the pond. I watched for a while and then retreated back in the house with Niki, got my camera and returned to watch and
photograph. Also....to get an estimate of size for I was told once they reach a certain length they can be moved elsewhere....of course while I have no fear in being a lizard and frog wrangler....I would call a professional for the gator ;-)




As I watched it appeared to sink down into the water a bit, to soon emerge enough to get a few photographs. I tracked him for a good part
of the afternoon....just snapping away certain that I got some awesome shots ;-)

Imagine my surprise when I got around to putting the card into the card reader on the Mac to see a log that through my eyes, on that sunny, summer afternoon oh so appeared to be an alligator, though it does closely resemble an alligator...don't you agree ;-)

Bad vision and over active imagination made for a pretty exciting day!

Gator sighting...

Is it ever...tomorrow more of the same....they say about 100.
We did our morning walk, numerous potty runs...several times the "girls" asked to go out on the deck....but soon returned into the air conditioned. Just too hot....the type of hot air that just drains you and makes it difficult to breath....very humid.

The heat is on...

For those interested in viewing the video...to lower the sound on the site scroll down and adjust in the music box.


Here we are, still in St. Augustine...
Still enjoying the beach breeze from the deck, our walks on the beach are still the highlight of our days. Though this past week we had to skip the beach for Rocky had a hot spot...ouch. Poor Bailey, while he is not the one suffering from a hot spot his energy level is a bit off the chart. Sadly there is no fenced yard so there has been no off leash play time....he reallllly needs the beach walks and the water which he so loves.
The ocean is very harsh for their coats and skin so you must take the time to rinse and dry. I am hoping we can resume out beach walks in a day or so.

As we must take numerous walks during the course of the day I split the pack up for the majority of these walks, saving two outings for the "pack" adventures.
The "locals" have warmed up to us...even those that are not dog lovers.
During our walks we will often pass a jogger or two, those that enjoy bike riding and of course others just out and about walking their dogs. One woman walks her 17 year old dog...so the dog follows the woman and a cat follows the dog. I inquired about the cat the other day and he is just one that has taken up with them. The dog does not at all seem to mind her new furry companion.

We have run into a few unwanted situations early in our stay...
Early one morning during Mikes visit we were taking all four dogs out for their first potty run, and walk of the day. I did not even make it to the street when I noticed a pit bull mix heading in our direction...off leash with a woman a distance a way. I shouted out she needed to call her dog....funny how silly some people are and just how very clueless....she did nothing.
The dog was a cute young pup, maybe 6, seven months old...body language very submissive. Sadly....my hands, especially first thing in the morning are very stiff and painful...to say I have full control of the two Goldens.....Rocky is verrrry good on leash, though he prefers dogs not come into his space....Bailey is still learning and in this situation I knew I would have little control. Mike had the two females....who were not behaving at all....always the little ones who must puff up and show who is boss.
The woman indeed got a firm verbal correction from me...especially because the dog was a pit bull mix. The dog was sweet and adorable and should be on leash....and of course, trained.
St. Augustine has a leash law and I must add is a very dog friendly place. Situations like this can indeed ruin it for all. Not all dogs are dog friendly on leash.

Another early morning walk, I again had the two Goldens when the woman with the 17 year old dog approached with her dog, and of course the cat following the dog...
I made the Goldens sit and told her to pass us....nope, she had to tell me how beautiful the dogs were.....and continue to come into the dogs space to feel how soft they were....once again Bailey was soooooooo excited....it was then he realized I could not control him and I noticed a glint in his eyes...I really struggled to keep control of him. I did my best to explain that I had rheumatoid arthritis in my hands and in the mornings it best she ignored us....all on deaf ears. People just do not understand for most of the time the dogs are so well behaved.
I then tried to explain it best she keep her dog at a distance for really....I did not have full control....having watched the "Dog Whisperer" she picked her dog up and placed the dogs butt in my dogs faces...Thank You Cesar ;-) The general public now is an expert on canine behavior....not.
This soooooo excited my dogs, especially Bailey who was now realizing I did not have the strength to control him....again Rocky is very good and responds well to verbal commands and corrections, Bailey....still learning...sadly on this day he learned there are times he can pull me....and strangers reward all unwanted behaviors.
I, in the end managed to barely get control and we returned home for the adventure so pained my hands.
Later in the day Bailey tried to pull me the way he had that morning...nope, not gonna happen.
So...for those that watch the Dog Whisperer....please learn to first ask to approach a dog and always ask permission to pet. If the dog is hyper....wait a few seconds/ minutes for the dog to become calm. Only pet a dog that is calm.

Having been here a little over a month...now when we run into the locals early in the morning I get a howdy and we pass one another...I have even noticed some turning down a street to keep their distance. The afternoon walks are the time most now take the time to chit chat with me.

Walkies...

Finally a dry day...a bit overcast but oh how everything is green and lovely.

After several more days of rain...time for a nice long walk. Looking down at my hand and wondering if I should take the two Golden's together...a second later I have better judgment. Taking them one at a time is the best I can manage at the moment. My hand does not seem to be healing....as the weeks drag on I am amazed at the pain that it is still causing me. I know I should not be walking them at all for one pull can further damage it, but they must be walked, especially the pup.
I look over at them....clearly the most wild and hyper dog will be going first....Bailey. At this thought I smile....he is six months old today, gone are the puppy features...he was such an adorable puppy. Not yet full grown....short legged compared to his body.
His behavior....more like Dennis the Menace ;-)



He is so very inquisitive, enthusiastic....and yes....he loves to stir up excitement within his pack....and at this moment in time I am almost certain he believes his name to be No No Bad Dog!
There are moments of such sweetness....it's there...he has learned if he looks at you in such a way it will just melt your heart. if you have ever loved a Golden...you know the look...head cocked at a slight angle....looking directly up at you...wide eyes, slight, oh so very slight goofy upper lip curl...they have learned with that one look you will pet, hug them, regardless to what your doing at that moment!

Bailey still seeks out the comfort of being near Rocky....at this point in time I am still so enjoying their relationship. Rocky...enjoys Bailey...simple. The other day I was busy, preoccupied....fed bailey lunch and then forgot about him in the crate. Funny how they learn certain things....I no doubt he would have eventually whined to let me know he was forgotten.....but they know they must be quiet to gain freedom...so not a peep. Rocky on the other hand did all he could to get me to let Bailey out of the crate. The addition of Bailey to the pack has made Rocky such a happy Golden....someone to play with....and someone to annoy....non stop.
He has helped me to raise Bailey....in both good and bad ways ;-)



Funny how they know it is time for a walk....Bailey loves going out...even if you just take him to the mailbox, it's an adventure. I start our walks pretty much the same....with a purpose to burn off a little bit of energy...and a little bit of training. I am so saddened at the timing
with which my hand is bothering me....he is missing out on working around other dogs, people....being socialized....It annoys me to no end to have to admit I just cannot control him with the one hand. Oh....and they do so know when you are weak, both physically and mentally.
This in no way makes him a bad dog, just a normal six months old.

The beginning of our walk was normal....heel, sits, downs....a few stays....walking at a faster pace, then slower pace....once some energy was expelled we start walking the neighborhood, hoping to not encounter any loose dogs, and if so....that they are indeed friendly. I walk with a walking stick, and attached to my hip a can of citronella spray...both of which have been used in the past....I would prefer to not have the need to reach for either.
As we walk I can not help but chuckle for it has been a few days that we have had a good walk and everything....sights, sounds....smells,,,all seemed new to Bailey. Our pace is now slower as we were taking in our surroundings....there is a corner house in our neighborhood and there are multiple dogs always out in the yard, chain link fence. They bark and bark and today I notice Bailey's fur hackle up...give a look in their direction. I pause and make him pay attention to me....look in the direction of the other dogs....if they seemed agitated, or were growling and barking....running along the fence we would continue along our way so that we not cause any trouble within their pack. They were quieting down so I took the moment to work with Bailey....put him in a sit, down....and we then resumed our walk and once again my thoughts were on the fact he was six months old. Since the majority of dogs that have shared their lives with me were rescues....I did not know how old they were....guessing the age....not knowing a birth date. I will celebrate the fact he is six months, acknowledge, pay attention to his behavior for a six month of male Golden....whew so much energy....oh...and the trouble they can get into if your not paying attention....or for that matter acknowledge their age and the puppy development stages. So, at six months the hormones are kicking in....yes....for all those that are going to be concerned over the fact that Bailey is an intact puppy. He will indeed be neutered in time. At six months he is so very easily excited....I must say he does get easily over stimulated and while I would prefer for him to be a tad bit calmer we will work though this stage. It is the enthusiasm at this age that I so adore...and the fact that they are truly sponges soaking up all that goes on in their pack and in their environment. So yes, I will indeed acknowledge the fact he is six months old...we will celebrate with an extra game of fetch, just he and I...then play time with the pack...a pretty great six month old celebration ;-)

Celebrating...Six Months...

Yes....A Prayer in Spring... by Robert Frost, one of my favorites. If you have not taken the time to look around at the lovely greenery, new growth here and there...do take the time to do so. If in parts of the country where there is still snow covering the ground...look closely, it's there.

Above is the apple tree that grows out front...oh and the scent just when the blooms are opening is soft, sweet. the bees...soo many drinking in the sweet nectar of the flowers. Sadly...the flowers do not last very long....with all of the rain no doubt they will drop to the ground sooner then usual. Time to stop and smell the flowers ;-)


Just what to do on a rainy day....once it slows down, time to head out for there is new scents every where...so much to explore, sniff and of course if you find a good stick along the way, by all means stop for a chew.

A Prayer in Spring...

It really does...the little pup that I picked up from the breeder back in Dec. weighs in at about 50 lbs. Five months old and pretty darn full of himself. My once calm pup when out and about has turned into a demanding little fella. If you even look in his direction, well really you had just better come over and pet....oh and once there expect to be jumped on...oh, last week he also realized he can hit people with his front paws and get attention from them.



If you decide not to come say howdy....yes indeed that will be my pup with the deep "WOOF" demanding....again, that you come say hi. The puppy training that we have been working on....that perfect come....yes, he has figured out there is a world out there and it is so much more exciting then me. Training at this stage is soooo very important for young dogs...keep at it!



Five months old....getting to be a big fella...no doubt in my eyes he will be a puppy....always ;-)

Time flies...

Today finds the sun shining brightly...warmer temperatures...a big difference from our snowy Sunday. What to do on a lovely sunny winter day....sadly for the dogs I do have to work for who would keep them in the life style they have become so very accustomed too ;-)

Nothing in life is free...

I happened to speak with someone this afternoon looking for a new home for their dog. They told me how wonderful the dog was....how much they loved him....I wondered if so wonderful and so loved, why are you looking for a new home. At a year old it would seem the dog was not trained...seems now they could not afford to train the dog now....grooming was another added expense not to mention the vet care.

Yes, the economy has truly effected so many of us....still I wonder rather then looking for a home for the dog, what could be done to keep the dog in his home? Most local libraries have books and possibly a dvd or two on dog training. E bay is another place that I no doubt you could find a great deal on training material.

Grooming...I groom my own dogs and I must admit, I am not a groomer ;-)I call their trim Neat & Clean, we will not be winning any dog shows anytime soon ;-) Again....if needed a clipper for shaving, again, I am sure you can find something on e-bay....or like me hand sissor (again, Niki will not be winning any awards for her fur style. I jsut sissor away....clean and neat.

Also...I will have to look into this....there must be locations in the Atlanta area that offer vaccinations for those that cannot afford it. I know on the north side of Atlanta there is a store that will help those in need with dog food. I mean, rather then just look for a home, look at what can be done to keep the beloved furry friend in his home. I will do a bit of research and post more valid info at a later date.

I will also post little training video's....today is just to show how easy it is....stay tuned for our training series ;-)

Paws Atlanta : Low cost vaccination clinic.

Spay & Neuter Clinics:
Check with local Humane Societies.
• Project Spay/Neuter – Pet Vet of Cumming: www.tracylanddvm.com, 770-887-1565.

• Cat Care Hospital in Marietta: 770-424-6369.

• Atlanta Humane Society: atlantahumane.org, 404-875-6420.

• Fulton County Animal Services: Free spay/neuter certficates for Fulton County residents who can't afford the procedure for their pets. Www.fultonanimalservices.com, 404-794-0358.

• Casper's Fund: From Atlanta Animal Rescue Friends, Inc., www.caspersfund.org, 678-318-1886.

• Friends of Animals: www.friendsofanimals.org.

• PAWS Atlanta: www.pawsatlanta.org, 770-593-1155.

• SpayGeorgia: Metro area. Www.spaygeorgia.org, 770-662-4479.

• Humane Society of Cobb County: www.humanecobb.org, 770-428-9882



Pet Food Pantries
Pet Food Bank Information

Help Save Our Pets Food Bank at P.A.L.S.
P.A.L.S.
2115 Liddell Drive NE Atlanta
404-536-8472, 404-876-2200 ext. 314
Donations accepted at:
Fulton County Animal Services
City Dog Market in Brookhaven
Highland Pet Supply in Virginia Highlands
Piedmont Bark
The Atlanta Dog Spa
See more about this story on Channel 2's People 2 People program Sunday, August 3rd at 6:30 a.m.
For more information about pet food help and donation opportunities in your area, here are several links:
Atlanta Area Help

Gwinnett and Douglas County Help

Cobb and Cherokee County Help

Please know the above info was gotten online. The phone numbers/ web sites were not tested. Feel free to add info in the comment section...Thanks!!

We work for food ;-)

Bailey turned four months old this week. He is indeed growing so very fast. Due to his illness we held off his last set of vaccinations, as is he still on meds. Next week he will receive his last set. I so love watching them grow....he is a fun little puppy....happy...bratty at times and when I write that he adores Rocky...well as I had to separate them due to the fact they play non-stop and can get pretty rough, I placed the puppy in the office with me so that I can work....little bugger must have top toed out and in my search for him, there they are...snuggled up together in my living room.



So...four months is a big deal to a puppy. Watching the other dogs...the two females are sooo tired of his puppy antics and are letting him know that he needs to grow up. Yes, they are revoking hhis puppy license!
Rocky will soon follow, especially because he is so very rough, and getting so very big. Of course he will always be my puppy in my eyes and of course he is not ready to grow up....yet.

Four Months...

When sharing your life with dogs, there are certain words, commands that one must take the time to teach. A release word is one of my dogs most favorite words for it means they can move after being placed in a stay or wait command. It also can mean a treat...when photographing them it most definitely means they are rushing forward to get their reward...be it a hug, attention...pat or of course a little taste of a tiny tasty morsel. The image taken right before this of course is great for they were paying attention, looking at me and the camera, this one is at the very moment I uttered "OK". i love capturing this moment....their expressions are priceless....now of course one must be mindful of the camera for you will have a dog or in my case dogs rushing you. Try it....the results are wonderful and so very memorable.

Release Word...

Yesterday Bailey and I headed to the North side of Atlanta to a more Holistic vet clinic. I so want to get him feeling better....as he is on antibiotics for the bacteria in his stool and urine I thought it best to add a few things. He is off all home cooked foods and now just eating Flint River Ranch...in addition to the meds he is on a couple of Chinese herbs (which will help with the loose stool) as am I adding probiotics in powder form (for infants actually)....will help with the flora in his intestines. Oh and yes in deed, cranberry juice....yummmmmy. There is a capsule form for those that do not like the juice.
He is well on his way to being a healthy pup ....I have postponed his third set of vaccinations....his immune system does not need any thing added to the mix at the moment.
We have resumed his training, and daily play and exercise...while he has been walked daily...and he and Rocky managed to "sneak" a play in...we have taken it slow with him the last few days.



I have a large bag of Large Breed Puppy Wellness dog food, unopened that I would like to donate to one of the local rescue organizations. So, if you belong to one, or know of one in need, let me know.


Oh, and for those that find the music distracting, the player at the bottom of the page allows you to lower the volume, as does it allow you to change the music for your listening pleasure ;-)

Bailey on the Mend...

One of the questions I am asked when out and about with my dogs is "What do you feed them"?

What do you feed your dog....

On this very chilly morning I find myself sitting at my PC...coughing still. You probably have experienced such a cough, after days of coughing you dread just even the thought of coughing for your ribs, and internal organs hurt when you do so.

At a cool 28 degrees the pack and I were out side for our early morning play....well ok they played and I pretty much stood in place doing a little cold weather dance trying to keep warm...deciding on just one shot for todays post...and of course the two are playing tug. That poor stuffed toy does not stand a chance.

As I watched the pack do their thing I could not help but smile and have a daja vu moment....over the years I have stood, early... chilly morning...thinking of the warm cup of tea inside just waiting for me to wrap my cold hands around the cup...and take a few sip. The sounds of the birds, the dogs playing....it has been many years....and a few dogs....the memories of those dogs that shared their lives with me....oh what very special dogs each is...was!

Over the years I have read about those that have had one special dog. A dog that was so loved...and that loved so much....a Heart Dog. I have always smiled when reading such a thing....for I so understand the sentiment...

For a brief moment I stood trying to think to that one special dog and all I can tell you is that the faces that appear in my minds eye....all of my beloved furry friends. Bogie....oh my what a pain in the butt he could be...when he was sweet....he was oh so sweet. Lovely Jas, what wonderful soft, fuzzy fur....yes indeed....my heart dog for sure. Serious Montana....who at the sight of a ball would just light up with excitement and anticipation that you will indeed be tossing it for him to fetch. Bear, the white GS that stole our hearts and slept at the front door, protecting his pack....Tasha....beautiful blue eyed tash, so very independent but yet, put your hand under a blanket and move it around and just watch her, like a puppy try to get it. Mikey the Golden...what a funny sense of humor he had. Sparkie the Pit Bull....sweet funny Sparkie who could just melt my heart with just a look in my direction.... and of course My Phoenix....hyper, oh so very hyper Phoenix....the fun we shared together.

I look to the dogs I share my life with currently and indeed, those same feelings and emotions....I adore each one.

Each having a different personality, sense of humor...I love each for who they are. Bailey....now he has been with us the least amount of time....really everyone loves a puppy. I can think back during the short time he has been a pack member and recall the exact moment he became one of my Heart Dogs....I had him in my lap and he was nipping at my hands and I was "trying" to teach him to be gentle. He finally looked up at me and barked....yep, a Woof. I smiled and hugged him....now indeed not many would find it endearing...but at that moment I knew my heart was his.

So, No....I have not had one special Heart Dog...I have been so fortunate that I have had a pack of Heart Dogs ;-)

Pack of Heart Dogs...