Watching Punkin & Peanut 9-4 to 9-8-2010

It has been absolutely gorgeous the last couple of days. Punkin, Peanut and I have spent a fair amount of time outside on the deck trying to enjoy the slight weather change. Saturday night and all day Sunday we ate and and enjoyed the sun, I am pretty sure that are the only two things we did for a full day. I've noticed the pups have become a lot better with eating their food when I put it out for them. Monday morning, I fed Punkin his medication and left the pups for work (yes, I worked on labor day). When I got home I found his pill on the floor of the kitchen and had to attempt to trick him into taking it again. He has been pretty good on not liking at his legs the last couple of days, but I have been spraying the area anyways just in case. Peanut had a very loud Monday night. She snored and whimpered through her sleep. They've both been very cuddly on the bed, Punkin always finding a spot to curl up next to my legs and Peanut up closer to my face. Everything has been going well, they just ate their breakfast and Punkin ate another pill today. Now off to enjoy another wonderful day.

Watching Punkin & Peanut 9-1 to 9-4-2010

I am watching Punkin and Peanut for two weeks, and I am really excited to stay with them for this long. When I got here on Wednesday they were excited to see me. I think they already missed their parents and really wanted company. Peanut was absolutely adorable. She wanted to play so bad and did this sort of pounce thing back and forth with me. Punkin ran around the entire house with one of his toys. Thursday, I feed the pups breakfast and had to leave for work (yes I am working about 3-4 days a week but I am only gone 9-1). When I got back the pups hadn't eaten their food yet, but as I was making myself something for lunch they seemed happy to chow done with me. Punkin was licking at his legs a lot, which I didn't see him doing on Wednesday, so I stopped him and put the ointments on him and that seemed to do the trick on stopping him for a while. The pups were happy to hang out and watch movies all night with me. Friday morning I had to leave them for work again. They weren't to happy to see me go in the morning but were surprised to see me home so soon. Punkin took his medicine in the morning with no problem, its a good thing they love turkey so much, he doesn't even really chew it and doesn't notice the pill. Peanut had been sleeping on the very bottom corner of the bed for the last two night but last night she changed her m/o and decided she now wants to sleep right next to me all night. She hasn't done that before but she is now curling up right next to me in bed. She also had what I call puppy dreams last night. She sprawled out a little and started letting out little yelps in her sleep, in between her snores. Punkin has started out at my feet every night but then ends up in his puppy bed in the foot of the bed by the middle of the night. They have been quite a joy to be with the last couple days. I left my transfer cord at home, so no new pictures of the pups yet.

Walking Chad 7-22-2010

Chad was happy again to see me when I walked in the front door. He is such a little wiggler. We went out in the back first and all he really wanted to do is snuggle. I fed him a small bowl of food. I think Mr. Chad really loves the homemade food his mommy made for him. We then went for a walk around the neighborhood. Some neighborhood kids were playing up the street and and they came over to pet his fro and all commented on it. Chad loved it. We went home, drank some water, and Chad went in his create without a complaint.

Walking Chad 7-20-2010

I met Chad yesterday, he is the new addition for a newly wed couple, and from the two experiences I've had with him, I would say he was a perfect addition. Chad was really excited while I was opening the front door. I could hear him whimpering in excitement as I turned the key. Unfortunately, he got a little too excited and had a slight accident in his create, but he is a pup, what can you do! When I got there I took him directly out to the back yard. I tried to play ball with him for a few but he didn't really seem that interested in a game of fetch. We then went inside were I feed him a small bowl of lunch. Which he finished without hesitation. We then went for a walk down the street and back, he was excited to be out and about. He knew without hesitation which house was his and headed straight for the front door. We hung out in the back so I could snap a few pictures and back in the create for Chad. He was a pleasure to spend the afternoon with. I left his new medication on the counter next to the refrigerator.

Watching Miley 7-3-2010 - 7-5-2010

Saturday afternoon was a lazy day. It was hot outside so I kept Miley's walk short but we did pick up some froyo before we headed home. We spent the rest of the evening lounging around the apartment watching HGTV. When it got dark we went for a walk up Wilson, everyone loves Miley. Everyone wants to know what she is and pet her. I think 3 people said "that's a tall dog". I said thanks for the observation :). Sunday morning we woke up nice and early and went to the dog park all morning. Again the heat was overwhelming but Miss Miley didn't care. The daycare report card is right she is a social butterfly, she was the first dog at the gate every time a new dog would come. She never stayed with one dog for too long but she would defiantly have to check out what each and every dog was doing. She BFF'ed a bulldog who didn't want to leave her when her parents tried to make her go. She played frisbee with another dog for about 5 minutes before she wanted to do something else. We stayed in the shade for most of the time to make sure Miley wouldn't over heat. The rest of Sunday was pretty lazy. I didn't want to let her in the heat too much so we slept on the couch till the early evening. This morning, Miley was up at 7am, raring to go. I took her to the dog park for about a half hour, but there weren't any other dogs there. I made her chase me back and forth in the pen before we headed back to the apartment. I left her this afternoon around 1230 with a quick walk through the Ivy.

Watching Miley 7-1-2010 - 7-3-2010

So I got to Miley on Thursday evening. She was so happy to see me, she just attacked me with kisses and whines. I absolutely lover her greetings. We went for a walk and made the bed then I left her for dinner. She was happy for my return in the evening when we went back outside... I've avoided the car that was supposed to be missing to ensure less confusion (hehe j/k). Friday morning, Miss Miley woke me up with nudges and kisses at 630. I think she thought I was late for work. We went out for a walk to get her business taken care of, feed her breakfast and then we both went back to sleep for a couple extra hours. Once we realized how gorgeous it was we found some adventures to go on. First we went up to the dog park in Bethesda to meet up with Misty and Violet for a play date. There were a bunch of other dogs there, I'm guessing everyone was playing hooky before the holiday weekend. There was a beagle that made Miley's ears his chew toys and a bulldog that helped her dig a hole to lay down in. After all the girls seemed tired of the park, we brought them back to Sarah's house for a keep run around her back yard. Misty and Violet chased Miley around the yard while Miley showed her agility by ducking through and over most obstacles. There was one moment where she totally wiped out, tripped on a brick and slide into a metal post. Poor puppy, but she got up and shock it off and kept playing. She also went for a swim in the pool. I don't know if she has had a chance to do that our not, but she is a born swimmer, she got full into the water and paddled her way across. She knew to get into the pool at the stairs, but she had an issue realizing that was the easiest way out as well. Whenever she wanted to get out she would swim to the side put her paws on the edge and try to scale the pool wall and climb her way out of the pool. She was definitely struggling! After she left Misty and Violet, we took a trip to my house. There she met Buttons, who I think really adored Miss Miley, and Isis. Again, I don't know how much experience she has with cats, but this was an interesting interaction. They just stared at each other sniffing each other for a few minutes. I'm not sure if Isis knew what to think of Miley, but then they both started swatting at each other with their paws... not in an aggressive way almost in a playful way. At night we headed back to Arlington for dinner and a late evening walk. This morning we woke early for the Argentina vs Germany Game. Before the game I took Miley for a long walk around Arlington. She took me for a tour of the local watering holes. We just came in from an afternoon quick walk and plan to take a quick rest while we wait for the day to cool down, then plan of finding a little adventure this early evening.

Walking Heidi 7-1-2010

Today I had the my first walk with Heidi, an absolutely lovely Golden Retriever. When I got to the house, she was upstairs. I actually had to call her a couple of times to get her to come downstairs. When she did she kinda crept down the stairs and laid flat and submissive at my feet, I'm not sure she recognized me. Her parents live really close to the dog park so I took her there for some extra fun. When I first got there, the park was empty and I didn't have a ball for her to chase. But leave it to the dog park to have extra tennis balls laying around. She absolutely LOVES to retrieve, I am not sure there is anything else in the world that would make her happier. She was almost hyperventilating she chased the ball so many times. I had to talk her into relaxing and taking a drink of water. We sat on the grass and I got to give her some love for a little bit. Other dogs came, and as her parents told me, she didn't even seem to notice them. I think I finally wore her out, because the last throw before we left she didn't chase the ball. I took her home and feed her some dinner, which she ate as fast as she could. She was a pleasure to spend time with.

Bumps in the Road

It’s hard not to let life’s challenges get in the way of our dreams. We constantly let road blocks keep us from achieving what we really want for ourselves. This is true with big goals and small goals. You have to stay true to yourself, don't let your dreams fall to the wayside. Work towards those goals no matter what life puts in front of you and no matter what other people say. Success is sometimes not giving up.

Denial? by Lori Sash-Gail

Denial is my best friend. When I was thirty-five years old, my father gave me the shock of my life: “You were always too tall to be a dancer.” I had danced for ten years, never suspecting!
When Edna asked me to train her toy poodle, Chablis, to become a pet therapy dog, I had my doubts. Chablis clung to Edna’s lap, shook when keys dropped, and shied away from people. How would she become accustomed to wheelchairs, walkers, banging, bumping, and rough petting. But I could never formulate the words “not suitable”. Instead, I sunk my head deeply into the sand. Seven months later, Chablis became a certified therapy dog.
I’m now training her sister. Chardonnay assumes the frozen-rabbit response to terrors such as laughter. I decided that she could take Chablis’s place in an ad. All Chardonnay had to do was let the model hold her. She behaved like a cross between a wild bird and an unhappy cat getting a bath. arms and legs extended straight out, screeching. Eventually, they got the shot, and by then I was the one who needed a shot. The assistant christened me the “poodle whisperer.” I never wanted to hear the word “poodle” whispered again.
With denial stronger then ever and now eight years out of shape, I still attend dance class. A question greets me: Could I do a doggie modern dance with my new, untrained dog for their concert?
“Sure,” I frothed at the mouth. “I’d love too!” (They said I was too tall for their other dances. Who told them?)

Copy Write: Dog People Do It Better by Theresa Mancuso, 2005

Watching Adidas & Max 6-23 & 6-24-2010

I had a chance to watch Adidas and Max for three walks. It was great seeing Max again, I missed him the last time I was there. He is such a happy little guy and I just adore how he jumps in the air and his ears flap wildly in the air. The first walk wasn't very eventful. But afterwords I sat on the couch to play with the animals and Sugar actually sat down right next to me and rubbed her head against my hand for a good two or three minutes before she ran away again. In the morning Adidas got into a fight with another dog that ran off a neighbors yard. It didn't last long, but Adidas was not happy with the other pup and Max barked his little head off and basically tied the dog up by running around in circles till the leash had the pups legs entangled. It was kind of a chaotic scene for a moment. But in the end everything was fine and no pup was hurt. It was hot early on in the day so I kept the walks kind of short so they wouldn't get overheated. The afternoon walk was hard for all of us, so I just spent extra time in the house with the pups. I really enjoy these pups, Adidas really should be 3 not 11 and Max is just filled with love.

Watching Punkin & Peanut 6-13 and 6-14-2010

Well it is the last morning with Punkin and Peanut. I fed them this morning and they both ate everything and then all the treats that I put down on the mat. I just put some more down but Punkin just ate all the new treats. I think I'll hold off on giving them anymore. But know Punkin is sitting next to my side making whiny barking noises. I think he wants attention, all be right back.... Peanut has been quite energetic this morning, I wonder if she knows mom is coming home and is getting excited. Peanuts energy is rubbing off on Punkin because he has been following her around all morning. Yesterday was another hot day, but I took both of them out in the morning and hung out in the yard with them. Thought it would be a good idea to get some outdoors time before it got too hot, and I think I was right. They then just slept the rest of yesterday away. Too hot to go outside unless it was absolutely necessary. They ate with no problem yesterday, I think they might be making up for not eating on Saturday. It's been a pleasure staying with these two. Peanut has this really cute personality that comes out when she gets happy and Punkin has cuddled with me for the last two days just making my days here quite enjoyable!

Punkin!

Peanut!

Chewie

Here are a couple of shots of the adorable Chewie I watched last week. The blog was put on hold because of the three other rugrats I was watching... but I just wanted to give a little taste of this feisty adorable pup to everyone.

Watching Punkin & Peanut 6-12-2010

Today was brutally hot and these two did not want to go outside and face the heat. We spent the day indoors, which was probably the best for everyone. Punkin is now following me around the house. Every where I go, he is... not that I mind, I find it endearing. Peanut on the other hand has rotated from three spots all day. Today wasn't a big eating day and neither pup touched their food, so luckily it was was medicine day and I wasn't stingy with the chicken or the pup-peroni! Being stuck inside I decided to work out a little, but the pups just curled up and napped as I sweated. Now it's off to bed for everyone (like they haven't gotten enough sleep today as is) and they are already snoring.

Watching Punkin & Peanut 6-11-2010

Day two watching these pups has been a lazy day in the Maryland heat. We woke up early and I had to tell them to go outside, they reluctantly went. Once they were done they ran right back to bed, so we "slept in". Peanut slept on the same corner of the bed all day curled into the blanket. She's a really precious little girl. Punkin has a lot of spunk, he stayed by my legs the whole morning but wouldn't stay still and was the first to finally get up. I fed the pups in the morning and they ate everything once again. I used their moms trick, kept the food fluffy and covered it with shredded cheese. I left them to run some errands for the afternoon. Early this evening we went for a little walk around the neighborhood. The plan for this evening is to watch some TV and the pups are already curled up and waiting for me to choose a program.

Watching Punkin & Peanut 6-10-2010

I stated watching two new pups today. I got here this afternoon and they were quite happy to see me. Punkin ran off and grabbed a toy and ran around the room with it as to show it off to me and Peanut ran up and wanted as much love as possible. It was a lovely afternoon so I went outside with the pups and we sat on the deck and enjoyed the sun. Punkin slept at my feet while Peanut curled up on the seat cushion next to me. It was a lovely afternoon. I fed them dinner around 8, when I got my food and they ate all of it while I was eating. I think they wanted to enjoy a nice dinner with me. Since then we have been lazing around watching TV. The first night with these two has been wonderful. I forgot my cord for my camera, so I will pick that up tomorrow to post pictures.

Watching Poncho & Peaches 5-29-2010

The third day went smoothly. There was an accident with Peaches and I had trouble talking her into going to the bathroom, but overall I think they were slowly adjusting to the new situation of having someone come in to take care of them while their mom was gone. Poncho almost seemed like a pro at it but today. In the morning we went out for a little walk around the neighborhood, had some breakfast, then sat in the living room playing with the toys while Peaches sat on my lap, licking my hand as much as she could while I was there. In the afternoon, I let the pups immediately out back. There were no problems and Poncho and I played fetch for a little bit. Tonight I took the pups out back, fed them dinner then we went for a long walk throughout the neighborhood. There was a party up the street that caught the pups attention, I think it was the smell of the BBQ that caught their noses. Then we went back to the house and called their mom to say hi. After that I left the pups and headed home.

Watching Poncho & Peaches 5-28-2010

The second day watching P&P went well. Peaches had a couple of accidents when I got to the house to let her out, but I think she was happy to have someone around. In the morning I spent a little extra time with them because of the storm last night. We went for a walk around the neighborhood again and hung out in the backyard for a little bit. Both Peaches and Poncho only wanted to sit on my lap. In the afternoon I took them across the street and walked them around the park. Peaches hasn't gotten the who tandem walking thing down and kept getting stuck in the leash again. We went back inside and I gave both of them lots of hugs but Poncho spend most of the time chewing on his ball. In the evening, we went out front for a quick walk when I got there, had dinner, then spent some time in the back since it was a beautiful evening. Peaches sat at my feet most of the time and then they gathered around for a quick phone call to their mom. I think day two went well.

Watching Poncho & Peaches 5-27-2010

Today was the first day with Poncho and Peaches. When I got to the house in the morning the pups where happy to see me after their frist night alone. We went outside right away and stayed there for a little before breakfast. After P&P eat we played in the living room. Poncho wanted to play ball the entire time while Peaches just wanted to lick and be pet. It was hard entertaining both pups wishes at the same time, but I have two hands and pulled it off without a problem. In the afternoon we went for a walk around the neighborhood. I love watching dogs on twin leashes, they are really considerate of each other, but since Peaches still has a little puppy in her, she kept getting tangled in the leash. After our walk I sat on the couch with Peaches while Poncho chewed on one of his toys. This evening, I got to the pups right before the rain, which I'm glad we all missed. The pups had their dinner and we went out back and sat in the evening air. Poncho brought his ball out so we played catch, but he didn't seem as focused in the backyard as he does in the house. Peaches fallowed him around a lot and then sat at the bottom of my chair for the rest of the time. They went back inside and right back into the crate. I think the first day went well. They were happy for the company, but I think having each other in the crate makes the day go by quicker for them when no one is around.

Watching Adidas 5-23-2010

The last few days with Adidas has been busy. I've kept him outside for most of the time I've been there so I can tire him out so all he does is sleep when I am gone. On Friday, he continued his bad streak by knocking down an entire bag of uncooked rice and spreading the grains all over the kitchen floor. I think he was going through a little bit of separation anxiety, his best friend Max did just leave him. Since then he has been good though. No mishaps or chewed up furniture. We made some friends while walking around the pond the other day, but the relationship was short lived because Adidas decided he wanted to play, and the little dog decided Adidas was just too big. This morning I felt a little sad to leave him because he was good all weekend, so I gave him a couple treats and a few extra belly rubs. All the cats have been around the last couple of days. Sugar is getting curiouser and curiouser and has made it to my lap a couple of times for a quick pet before she darts off. Spice is always the same, he is the first one at your feet and wont leave my side until I leave. He has however been trying to make a run for the door when I am coming and going. Cookies has started staring out the front window while I am gone with Adidas, so that when I return both Cookies and Spice are staring out opposite windows. I think they look forward to getting back to their regular routine.

Pay it forward

A few weeks ago I posted a link to a facebook page for Project 50/50. I found the story inspiring and heartwarming. I believe it important to always keep your heart open to the people in this world and to help anyone you get the chance to. Its not always easy but if you keep an open-mind and positive attitude towards all those you meet, you can even surprise yourself.

"Happy Baby" by Theresa Mancuso

"After running my dogs in a remote field on the edge of brooklyn one summer night, I was putting them up in my van when I noticed a dark shadow scamper onto an abandoned hangar. I could just make out the dim visage of a small black pit bull staring back at me from behind a pillar. I called out, “Come on out, little one, it’s okay.” No response.

Procuring an extra dog dish, I brought her water, and began bringing her food and water every morning and every evening.

When there was sufficient distance between us, she would emerge from the shadows and eat and drink with one eye watching me.

A week had passed when a trooper told me that animal control had been called about the “dangerous stray pit bull.”

I came back the next morning, held my breath, said a prayer, and squatted low. “Come on, Baby. This is it.” She flew into my embrace. I removed the couple dozen swollen ticks that were embedded in her body, wiped her down with baby wipes, and put a collar and leash on her. Then I went to the main office. The trooper told me I was putting myself in grave danger. “She’s mine, Officer,” I told him, as she licked my face joyously. “I’m taking her home.” And off we went directly to my vet’s office.

Happy Baby was soon placed in a loving home with a family in Westchester."

Copy Write: Dog People Do It Better by Theresa Mancuso, 2005.

Watching Adidas 5-19-2010

Today Adidas was happy to see me, but that was his own fault when he decided to go rawhide crazy yesterday. I thought that I had found all of them and picked them all up, but he had one stashed somewhere that I found this afternoon. This evening I had to make him rice to settle his stomach, I hope it helps the poor guy. We went on three very long walks today. Sugar and Cookies were no where to be found today, so I went looking for them. Couldn't find them anywhere so I checked the entire house to make sure there was no escape routes anywhere. Nothing found. Spice however has this new habit of standing at the front door looking out the curtain the whole time I'm gone with Adidas. I thought maybe he would hear us coming so tonight I watched him come to the door when I walked out, and then disappeared and popped my head back around the corner after a few minutes... still there. Then he was still there when I came back. Silly little cat just wants to go out again!

Watching Adidas 5-19-2010

Well Adidas was just a rascal of a puppy yesterday! Apparently he got his nose into some trouble in the morning, and then he followed up that act up with finding away to the top of storage unit to get into a bag of rawhide, rip it up and spread rawhide strips all over the house. Its amazing what dogs are capable of when it comes to food. I know he thought it was a good idea at the time, but my guess he isn't feeling so good about it today.... if you know what I mean! I think he was going through a little separation anxiety yesterday, his buddy Max is moving down to FL for a little bit. He was extremely fast paced on his walks, and at times pulled me down the road. At night all he wanted was love. He jumped on my lap (note, adidas is in NO way a lap dog), nuzzled me as much as he could, and didn't want me to leave when it was time. This morning he was a little calmer, but equally happy to go outside and get some exercise. As for the kitties, well cookies watched last night like adidas was just crazy and today was completely MIA. Sugar was her normal timid self, although she did come up to the couch and sit down next to me for a moment asking for some love, but most of the time she was running away every time there was a single movement in the room. And lastly there is Spice, oh spice. When I went downstairs last night to let Adidas out one last time before I left, he went for the door, and bolted outside. Took me a few minutes, but I finally got him; although the treats did me no good in getting his attention.

Beggin' for treats after being bad!

Walking Bizzle and Sarah 5-18-2010

Today was yet another rainy spring day with the girls. I was greeted at the door by two very excited and affectionate pups. These are the things that make my day, both of them gave me kisses when I knelt down to say hello. Their unconditional love is just so powerful, it can make a dreary day like this, full of light! An odd thing happened after I left the house with Biz though that darkened my mood a little, and this is kind of a little warning for you Eryka, on the sidewalk down the street from your house there was a little chubby bird that has unfortunately come to the end of it's days. So walk the girls around the street in the evening! It was sad to see. Another odd thing happened while I was with Sarah. She started pulling around a mail box post, I had never experienced this with her. She had never crossed her leash with an object before and it's usually east to get her attention, especially with food in hand. But this time, no luck and I couldn't figure out why. Then I realized that her nose was pointed to something a little bit down the grass from the mailbox post she was tangled in...... Rib bones! She didn't get to them, but it definitely grabbed her attention more then the treats did. I laughed at her and told her to come and she eventually did with no problems. The girls and I then had a little photo session in the house, only because I really wanted to give them a ton of hugs and kisses before I left.

Watching Miley 5-16-2010

Today was my last day with Miley-girl and after the last two hectic days, who knew I would have more to write! This morning, Miley had NO interest in leaving the bed. I got her up to let her out back and she ran directly back into bed once I let her in. I made coffee and joined her, yet unlike Miley who was fast to sleep, I read. After a little bit I decided it was time to wake her up and get all the energy she had restored out so that her parents could have a relaxing return home. I took Miley to the Cabin John dog park. There wasn't one dog there who Miley wasn't interested in meeting. She even spent some time sniffing at the dogs on the "small dogs" side of the fence. Whenever a new puppy would enter the park, Miley's ears would perk up and she would run to be the first to greet the new pup. She ran from one dog to the next trying to find a way to play with each one of them, but seemed overwhelmed and never quite settled on one pup for more then 5 minutes. We were there for almost a good two hours and in the time she learned to come sit by my side when the other dogs where getting to wild for her. She didn't quite understand when other dogs fought because she is too loving of a pup to be involved in that. We headed home to be at the house by her dad's arrival. When he walked in Miley was out back, but once she got into the house she fully charged her dad for some affection, all the while whining and squeaking. She couldn't of been happier to see him. Now she just needs her mom home too!

Who to play with next!

Watching Miley 5-14-2010 & 5-15-2010

Oh what a busy two days. Friday night was filled with a special guest appearance from Fenway, who is Miley's cousin. Fenway is a sweet pup who seemed to like nothing more then playing with Miley. As I ate dinner, I watched the girls instead of the T.V., they were way more entertaining then whatever was on. They spent the whole evening playing tug of war with one particular chew toy. I tried to give them separate toys, but they didn't fall for it! The girls would almost take turns playing with the toy then made a game of stealing it back from each other. Miley would whine and bark while Fenway had the toy and Fenway would stare at Miley trying to find the best angle to steal the toy away from Miley. Miley was happy to come to bed early, but wanted Fenway to continue playing with her while she stayed in bed.

Today was a treat for both of us. After breakfast, Miley and I headed out to Strut Your Mutt in Bethesda. There we meet up with Andy Reid and his mom and Violet and Misty and their mom. It was a small reunion for Miley and Andy Reid. They had meet once at an adoption show before Miley's mom and dad had adopted her. Small world huh? There was so much going on for Miley to see. She wanted to meet and greet ever dog there. The small dogs didn't seem to know what to think of her and didn't seem so happy with her friendly greetings, but she got some great compliments. One lady told me that Miley was her favorite dog there. Things got a little hectic, so after our third pass through the street fair and some free samples for Miley, we all went on a little walk down the Crescent Trail. All of the pups became one big pack. Miley was right flank to Misty who lead the pack. Andy Reid followed the girls closely. Violet and Misty where on a tandem leash, so every once and a while Miley would feel left out and scoot her way in to the middle of the sisters to make herself a Miley sandwich. After the walk, the walkers got thirsty and a little hungry, so we headed to a small outdoor restaurant. Miley was thrilled to still be around so much action. She sat for maybe five minutes of our meal. Passersby would come up and pet her and other pups came by to say hello. She was in heaven. One little girl came running up to Miley to give her a nice pet with a cookie in hand. Miley's eyes where aimed for her hand and the moment the girl got close enough, Miley went in for the treat. The girl looked at Miley then her hand and ran off, two seconds later the girl decided the cookie wasn't as important as Miley and came running back to give Miley more love. After lunch we got into the car and headed home. Miley was so beat, she passed out in the car then on the couch when we got back home.

New Friends!

This evening Miley got to go to a puppy BBQ at Andy Reid's grandparent's house where she also met Harley. Harley is an old girl and was happy to meet Miley but didn't really care to play. After getting acquainted with her surrounding - a lot of sniffing later - her and Andy Reid decided it was finally time to play. The entire day you could tell that Andy Reid was really fond of Miley, but there had been so much going on that both of them laid low on the interactions. However, now, the two of them were fully able to play. Their favorite activity was Miley chasing Andy Reid around in circles. It was almost like a prelude to the show though, because once they got comfortable with that activity, they moved on to actual dog wrestling and then to keep away and tug of war. Miley wore Andy Reid out and was happy to head home so she could get some rest too. After one more trip out back, we are nuzzled sound in bed and Miley is already passed out.

She's had fun, and I know she is looking forward to her dog park date in the morning, but I think she can't wait for her mom and dad's return tomorrow!

Till tomorrow

~C

Puppy Adventure with Andy Reid 4-13-2010

Today Andy Reid (aka AR, aka Mister Mister) and I went for a "Puppy Adventure" the to Locust Center. When I got into the car I pointlessly put AR in the back seat, like he isn't the biggest lap dog and wouldn't find his way to the front and into my lap. When we got to the Locust Center, Mister Mister was as happy as can be to be in his favorite stamping grounds. I had never been there before and AR seemed to lead me right to were he wanted to go. A little into the walk I decided to be bold and let him off the leash, and the second I did little Andy Reid decided he would turn around and run back to the car like it was time to go. He would never run out of sight from me, but he ran right back to the car. I light heartedly laughed at the silly little boy, told him it wasn't time to go home and that I promised his mom he would have a puppy adventure and that is what he was going to get! So back on the leash he went and back to the trail we went. Once back on the trail he seemed happy to be there and was energetic on the walk. We followed the trail for sometime and turned around at the loop, then followed the stream back to the Locust center. We stopped at the stream so AR could get his feet wet and I could snap some pictures. Then we played for a little by the campfire site before heading back to the car. It was quite a puppy adventure and I hope he enjoyed himself as much I as enjoyed being with him. I think he did because I caught him with a smile on his face at one point (pic below) When I dropped him off at home, he cried as I locked the door behind me and it nearly broke my heart to get on the elevator.

SMILE!!!

Walking Bizzle and Sarah 5-13-2010

Today was the complete opposite of Tuesday, Bizzle was a little ball of bizzy energy. We went running down the street at first and then walked like normal shortly after. We stopped at some buttercups to see if she likes butter and chased a few birds out of the bushes. The walk was actually filled with reactive stimuli this time, but Biz did great. Each time I would say her name before she started to get too distracted and she would return her attention to me. In the end, I am not sure that I completely tired her out, but she sure did tire me out. Sarah and I went out for what I thought was going to be an equally energetic walk, but she slowed down shortly after we left the house. She was super well behaved though. I had her sit down for me so I could take a quick picture and dropped the leash, at the same time another dog came around the corner. All I had to do was say her name and her attention stayed with me so I could pick up the leash again. It was a wonderful day with the girls as usual!

Watching Milo 5-13-2010

Milo Miles is quite a pup. He has this small habit of barking at nothing, but if you were to read the characteristics of a Pekingese, you would know he is just being protective. He hasn't gotten used to the cat still so he likes to sit at the bottom of the stairs (the ones he cant walk up) and just watch for any moment the cat will run by so he can bark at her. We went for a long walk the other day and I let him run around a soccer field without his leash. He chased a tennis ball, but couldn't ever pick it up in his mouth - although he tried. He got to roll around in the grass which he seemed the most interested in doing. He's been trying to eat out of the other food bowl, even though it has the same food in it. He waits for any moment I am sitting down to jump on my lap for a little cuddle time. I think he is starting to really miss his mom.

Friends will be Friends

I personally like the message behind this story. I think it is important that everyone loves their friends for the people they are. I mean if we can't appreciate our friends for everything that they are, why are we friends with them in the first place? We need to appreciate and respect each person's qualities. And beyond the message, it's just a playful little picture of a few dogs playing together!


Dog Pals by Louise Maguire

"My crossbreed Bridget's a born comedian, running rings around canine accomplices. She's smart, quick, sneaky and full of surprises. She adores the chase, preferably brandishing someone else's trophy.
Veteran Irish Setter Ria's an easy target. Ria drops her squeaky toy to permit sniffing, nose to nose, then pirouettes to allow for delicate investigation under her feathery tail. Bridget ignores canine etiquette. She grabs Ria's toy and accelerates out of reach.
Jodie the golden retriever shares Bridget's passion for sticks. Jodie's current branch permits a noisy tug of war. THe branch finally breaks, and the two contented winner each brandish half - until Jodie unwisely takes a breather. Bridget snaffles both pieces of branch and shoots away, prancing with joy.
Sugar is a laid-back golden retriever with no competitive ambition. When Bridget steals Sugar's rubber ring, she just turns over to display her abundant underwear, apparently laughing.
Labrador Jess likes to display her trophies. Bridget circles the innocent retriever and snaps off most of the stick taht Jess is proudly carrying. Jess's confused puppy face is unforgettable as Bridget tangos away with the spoils.
Bridget shows miniature schnauzer Katy how to hunt for mice in long grass. She suddenly leaps out brandishing a lost rubber bone, with Katy in desperate pursuit. Our laughter acknowledges Bridget's victory circuit.
The action slows down a bit as Toy Poodle Candy appears. She was a minute runt with a deformed leg and remains a ridiculous fluffy ball of fluff too frail for adult games. Bridget is always gentle with her. No contest here. Candy rules, okay?"

Copy Write: Dog People Do It Better by Theresa Mancuso, 2005

Walking Bizzle and Sarah 5-11-2010

Oh the rain! It really likes to put a damper on things, especially when you are walking pups. Bizzle was not happy to be outside today. We walked around the corner and she started walking backwards toward the house. She didn't want to walk at all even in her body glove. Eventually she got a little energy and trotted along next to me, but didn't get full energy until she was walking toward the house. Inside she went crazy and all her pent up energy came out! Sarah didn't really care to go outside either, but will an offer of a treat she headed right for the door. She didn't mind the rain at all. I think both pups were thrilled that mommy was working from home today and would have rather spent the afternoon inside ;). As usual spending time with these two is a pleasure, even when the rain is falling!

Watching Milo 5-11-2010

Since I am watching Milo Miles this week I thought I would offer a little information about his breed. I've always found the history of the Pekingese very interesting, yet many of these dogs suffered a sad fate. There are a few discrepancies on the history but I tried to find the most common information on these pups and give a short summary:

The Pekingese received its name from the ancient city of Peking, which is now called Beijing. They were considered sacred dogs regarded as a legendary Foo Dog that drove away spirits. They could only be owned by Chinese royalty and was regarded as semi-divine and if you stole one of these dogs you were put to death. People without noble rank had to bow to them. When an emperor died, his Pekingese was sacrificed so that the dog could go with him to give protection in the afterlife. During the reign of Empress Dowager Tsu Hsi, in order to gain prestige, she surrounded herself with diminutive "lion dogs," insisting that their resemblance to the lion be as close as possible. The great Lama Buddha was always accompanied by a small pet dog which, at will, became a lion on whose back the Buddha rode through the heavens, with power to call from his fingertips tiny lions which, in the hour of need, became great beasts and attacked his enemies. During the Second Opium War, in 1860, the British overtook the Chinese Imperial Palace. Chinese Imperial Guards were ordered to kill the little dogs to prevent them from falling into "unworthy", while the Emperor Xianfeng had fled with all of his court. However, an elderly aunt of the emperor remained. When the "foreign devils" entered, she committed suicide. She was found with her five Pekingese mourning her passing. These five Pekingese were given to Queen Victoria. It was from these five dogs that the modern day Pekingese descended.

And you can see they still hold their regal stature:

Taking a Moment to Play

Throughout life we face many adversities, some can be so powerful and incapacitating that we are shaken to our cores and are forced to "start life over". It can be a very hard process and quite scary to face the world again; but just remember to always take a moment, notice your surroundings, breath in the fresh air, and have fun doing it. This will always remind you how happy and wonderful life can be.

Play Therapy by Irene Smith:
"When they brought Rio to us, he was profoundly depressed. A beautiful two-year-old pedigreed German shepherd, this dog had been terribly abused. His eyes were deep pools of despair. Rio took up residence in the coat closet and refused to eat. While he consented to be walked, he shuffled like an old man. We took turns sitting in front of the closet and talking softly to him. He listened gravely and finally deigned to take treats of cheese and chicken from our hands. Still, though, he declined to participate in the life of the household.
One cold February night about two weeks after his arrival, I walked Rio and Haiku, a four-month-old Shepherd mix pup, up to the dead end of the street and let them off their leashes in a big fenced lot. There was a layer of new snow on the ground. Haiku streaked off, circled the perimeter of the lot, and came back to run rings around Rio, inviting him to play. Rio watched for a few minutes, seemingly without interest, sitting listlessly in the snow.
Finally, Rio stood up, shook himself vigorously, and started to run. Haiku, delighted, followed him. I stood in the snow until my feet were blocks of ice watching them. They ran, they rolled, they turned somersaults, they leaped, they danced, they had mock wrestling matches. In Haiku there was the infinite energy if a puppy; in Rio, the look of a prisoner finally let out of his terrible jail. Life was starting over for Rio."

Copy Write: Dog People Do It Better by Theresa Mancuso, 2005.

Walking Bizzle & Sarah 5-6-2010

I hadn't seen the girls in a week and I was happy to see them this afternoon. Bizzle was her normal happy self, bouncing all over the place for our walk. When I stopped to take a picture of B, her and I had a fun encounter with a caterpillar My thoughts were confirmed today, when I was told that Sarah sat staring out the window the entire time I was gone with Biz. I always thought she was a little sad and jealous when I left with Biz. Sarah's ridge was extra noticeable today on her back, and it was kind of sticking up in its own fauxhawk. She was a little slow today though which left me a little worried about her, but she didn't seem to really feel like exercising.

I have some really cute pics of Biz from this walk, pics will be posted later!

Walking Bizzle and Sarah 4-28 & 4-29-2010

I got an extra day with Sarah and Bizz, and I got to see them on Wednesday and Thursday. Wednesday was another cold day in Maryland, but Bizz didn't seem to mind. Rain or shine she seems happy as can be to get outdoors. We keep getting lucky on our walks (I'm probably jinxing myself) and we haven't run into any other dogs. Although Wednesday the neighbors were outside playing with their two lab pups, but due to a hill and Bizz's low stature she couldn't see them and went on her merry way! Since the weather was wonderful yesterday, Biz and I went for an extra long walk, I think I finally wore her out and she was more then happy to stop and rest while I got a few shots of her. Sarah was slow moving on Wednesday, but I think she just wanted to be inside on her chair. However when I got there on Thursday she was standing on her chair and ready to go. When it was her turn to go outside she ran down the stairs with full force. I don't even think its because she need to use the outdoor facilities all that bad either. She was a pleasure to walk and we took a quick break under a pine tree after she wore herself out squirrel hunting again!

Positive Minded Pups

Dogs are such light hearted animals, they can find the good in anything. It might be all they know, but that is how they live. I think people should try to the same. Its hard, but if you can find the positive in every situation then you will become happier with each experience. Below is an entry from "Dog People Do It Better" that reinforces this idea. The dog sees the joy of the specific day.

Abby Gets Fired by Theresa Mancuso:
"I was wearing a hand-me-down community service jacket with our agency's emblem on it. Probation officers wire jackets and t-shirts like what i had on when they went into the field to supervise community service work crews. A youthful sixty-three-year-old, I could pass for a P.O., and Abby loved pretending she was an official K9 service dog.
I had my supervisor's permission to bring Abby to work with me in order ti accommodate the painters in my apartment. The security guards acknowledged our arrival with a nod of the head. Abby rode the elevator like a pro. Up we went; Abby and I couldn't have been happier. I settled Abby down with a large dog bone and sat at my computer. Several colleagues passed my office on their way to the mailroom next door. They smiled and spoke to Abby, who wagged her tail effusively in cordial greeting, the picture of professional decorum.
Before the morning ended, however, the deputy commissioner had informed me himself that Abby must leave. I felt miserably betrayed by my colleagues. Someone must have complained about Abby's peaceful presence, and although I didn't know who it was, obviously the call had gone straight to the top, right to the Commissioner's office.
Our long walk to the subway station was sad for me, but for Abby it was a joyful continuation of her delightful morning out of the house and off to work with Mommy. Abby might have gotten fired, but as far as she was concerned, it was a glorious day at the office."

Copy Write: Dog People Do It Better by Theresa Mancuso, 2005.

A Dog Named Woof by Marcy Rauch

I found these short stories that promote the idea that our dogs "teach us to love, laugh and loosen up" I couldn't agree more. Pets have this way to make you realize that life is worth enjoying. I will share some of the stories with you as I discover them.

A Dog Named Woof by Marcy Rauch:
"Woof was the kind of dog that comes along once in a lifetime. She took life head on with great determination. Woof was deaf, yet she shattered the boundaries of her silent world with what she could do. She learned agility at twelve years young and herded sheep for the first time at eleven. A quadriplegic from tick paralysis, Woof learned to stand again. When others missed a fallen biscuit, Woof saw it and with sheer determination, forced herself up to get it. She taught children that deaf dogs are special and brought tears to the eyes of one deaf child who felt alone in her plight. During her last year, confined to a wheelchair, Woof showed her mettle by hiking, swimming, and never giving in to defeat. She had a wheelchair race with a boy suffering from spina bifida. He won by a hair. In Woof's last outing, she shared what she had left with a young man suffering from cerebral palsy.
This is what legends are made of. People asked me how I kept her going so long. My answer was that as long as Woof was smiling, I would do whatever it took to keep her going. She stopped smiling one Sunday night. Two days later, with great sadness, I helped her leave the body that had given up on her. Woof and I were together for fifteen years. Sleep well, my friend. Your spirit and strength are in my heart forever."

Walking Bizzle and Sarah 4-27-2010

Biz and I took a different route today. I think she was really happy with the workout we walked for 2 miles and she was happy as can be the whole time! There wasn't even a barking dog in any of the houses we past today, it was a ghost-dog-town. It was absolutely perfect minus the threatening sky, but luckily no rain fell! I gave her a couple extra treats for being so good as we walked. Sarah was really excited and energetic to be outside. There were a couple of squirrel incidents, one of which seemed to be playing chicken with her and was just sitting there teasing Sarah as we walked closer.

Squirrel Hunting

Watching Adidas & Max 4-26-2010

Today was my last day with the boys. They were great. I cannot tell you how much these pets love affection. Adidas just wanted to ran past my legs a million times before I left tonight and Max just wanted to sit on my lap and burrow his head under my arm. All the while Spice would be nudging me and Max looking for some love. They really seemed to enjoy themselves on our walks, although Max didn't seem too happy about the rain - and apparently that is because he has a rain jacket that I didn't notice! Max gets so vocal during dinner time and loves to hop about a foot and half in the air, I tried to capture in mid flight!

Watching Adidas & Max 4-25-2010

I went to see Adidas and Max yesterday in the morning and evening. They are such loving dogs. They really just wanted as much physical attention that I could possible give them. We went for a long walk both times and then spent some "cuddle" time in the living room. Neither wanted to play as much as they just wanted to be pet. Spice also wanted to get in there. I think Spice thinks he is one to the dogs. This morning I let the boys out back for a few minutes and then feed them. We then said our hellos for a little and I spent some time giving them both as much love as I could. Then we went for a 25 minute walk around the neighborhood. I spent a little extra time with them after we got back. Adidas was pooped, but Max was looking for more love. Max also kept running upstairs and sitting outside of him mom's room, I think he might miss his mommy a little bit! Adidas got a second wind and the boys had a little play session. I let them have their fun and didn't leave them when my time was up. Then Max crawled on my lap so I let him stay a little till he was calm enough to take downstairs. Sugar was completely MIA today. I'm hoping to see her big eyes when I go there this evening. Until then...

Watching Puck 4-23-2010

Another beautiful day! The boys were super excited to see me and all of them were really hyper. After our walks I decided it was too nice outside to be inside so we all hung out on the back deck for the day. I brought out their bones and we all played for a while. It was lovely and I think the boys really enjoyed being outside for a bit.

Watching Puck 4-22-2010

And the best Earth day ever continues!

Got to spend some time with Puck Wilbur and Oscar this early evening, and I just love them to pieces! Each pup really has their own personality. There was a small tiff between Puck and Oscar, but that's because Oscar really didn't want to play anymore. Oscar just made a face and snapped at nothing. Puck and I hung outside after that just to separate the boys for a little. I left the boys once everyone was winding down from all the excitement.

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Walking Bizzle and Sarah 4-22-2010

HAPPY EARTH DAY! And what a wonderful Earth Day its been!

I took both Sarah and Bizzle on new paths for myself today. It started with Biz b/c i wondered down by the little man made pond in their neighborhood... you can see below as Biz scrounges around the grass for the treat I dropped to get her to pose! (fail on my part!)

I took Sarah on a little extra hike, but I think she enjoyed it. She was slow moving but really happy to be outside. It was so warm and beautiful out that I barely wanted to go back to the house to drop either of the girls off! Their mom was home today so there was an extra treat for them today, I'm sure they are thrilled when she is working from home!

Walking Bizzle and Sarah 4-20-2010

I had auto pilot on today when I was driving up to see Biz and Sarah, auto pilot that took me to the Washingtonian Center before I realized I was going to the wrong place. Slight detour but the girls were ready to go once I got there! They don't even bark when I come to the door and Biz just scratches at the other side until I get the door opened. Sarah gives me such sad eyes when I take Biz out first, but she is polite and waits her turn. Biz was great today, except we had one slight reactive moment. On our way back to the house we past a dog on the deck of one of the neighbors houses. Biz's attention was lost for a few moments but luckily there was a small bush next to the fence. It only took her a few moments to turn her attention back to me and forget that she wanted to bark at the other dog. She did good! Sarah was happier then the last couple walks to be outside and she was full of energy today. We went for the full time with no lag time. On our way back we ran into the two lab puppies that live in her neighborhood. They are precious but Sarah and I kept our distance even though Sarah wined as they walked by. What a beautiful day to spend with these two girls!

Watching Puck 4-16-2010

It's been a little since the last time I saw Puckers and boy has he grown. He is still extra pliable and adorable though! I took Osc and Wilbs out for a walk and then we all hung out on the deck for a while. Osc and Puck played, Wilbs looked annoyed, and Puck wouldn't give me my lens cap back (see below). Puck was filled with energy so I hope our play time wore him out a little before he had to go back into the crate.

Miss Miley's Grandpa

I just wanted to take a moment to honor Danny Fahler. He past last October after a battle with lung cancer, and his memorial service was held today at Arlington Cemetery. His daughter came into my life only a few years ago, so I didn't get the pleasure of knowing Mr. Fahler for an extended period of time. However, I knew him as a wonderful man, with a loving aura, lighthearted sense of humor, and one hell of a baker. I will always clearly remember watching him dance with his daughter on her wedding day and how handsome he looked in his uniform. It brought tears to my eyes watching them together on the dance floor. Miley's family is in my thoughts and prayers.

"May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back.May the sun shine warm upon your face.May the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, May the Lord hold you in the palm of His hand."