A lucky dog. A very lucky dog.

OK.  Enough of this cold weather.  Yesterday with the windchill, the temperature was like -36.  Cold enough to instantaneously freeze treat drool.  My human could barely see where she was walking us - so needless to say, the walks were short.  OK, Mr. Groundhog - we are coming to get you.  Fair warning.

You know I got to thinking  about the FG's escape the other day.  I'm thinking it wasn't JUST because he was shack wacky.  I think it was also because he's thinking a lot of himself after his Meet the Breed gig.  I forgot to mention that a local TV station was there when he was doing his thing - and a .00008 second clip of him appeared that evening on the news. If you blinked - you missed him.  But it was enough to make him feel like a star.  Albeit a falling star the next day with his runaway.

And speaking a runaways, there was a good news story out of Newfoundland.   A few days ago, a family was traveling, and sadly was involved in a 15-vehicle collision - due to snowy weather.  The family had some injuries - but luckily none were life threatening.  They escaped their vehicle just before another vehicle hit them from behind.  In the confusion, their 3 year old Shih Tzu, Obi was lost.  He was nowhere to be found, despite their search efforts.  They were not from the area - and sadly had to fly home without him.  They put a post on Facebook about their lost buddy, but after 4 days and windchill temperatures some nights below -35, they had pretty much given up hope.  But on the fifth day after he went missing, someone contacted them and said he had been spotted.  One of the humans grabbed a flight and arrived that afternoon to search for Obi.  He was joined by another family member who lived in the area.  And miracle of miracles, around 8:30 that evening - the searchers heard a bark in the distance.  With a flashlight, and a LOT of luck - they found poor Obi stuck in a snowbank.  They say he likely would not have survived another night.  His name has been changed to Obi One So Lucky.

You may see that we added a new link on our blog - you can see some of our Instagram photos.  Oftentimes the photos are also posted on Facebook, but I think it's time we mix things up a bit. So there will be different content in different places.  We have not become Instafamous by a LONG shot.  I think I need to hire an agent.  There seems to be some kind of strange algorithm to getting Instagram followers - and we certainly don't know it.  I do know that some of the most famous Instagram dogs are into wearing attire.  I'm not that interested in fame. 

I thought my human was going to be making us all kinds of biscuits since she retired.  I have yet to see her take out a baking sheet.  If she even knows where it is....

Well it looks like we have a balmy day today - up to -6C.  Break out the swimsuits.  Just joking.  Everybody knows I hate to swim.

 Have a good one.  Peace and paws up.
Seizure free days: 18

Reward. For bad behavior.

In the past few weeks I have written about how well the FG has been behaving.  He went to stores. And he behaved. He went to the dog show and he behaved. It was starting to look like the FG was maturing.  Wrongo.   The wild immature gazelle-like DEAF rocket dog still lives.

Yesterday morning, after the wild rainy weather the day before, the temperature had dropped and we were greeted by sub-freezing Arctic temperatures combined with high winds.  Add to that a nice coating of crusty ice.

The FG went out first for his morning constitutional, but they didn’t go far before my human turned back to go home. It was brutally cold.  He was not impressed despite the fact that he was limping from the cold.  She brought the cranky Picard in the house and now it was PON time.  She decided to just take us in the woods behind the house.   Einstein quickly made his deposit, but yours truly decided that I wasn’t ready to go back so quickly.  We walked along, with my human begging “hurry up Viktor.  Pleeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaase hurry up.”   No question - I needed to go, but sometimes I just like to hold out for a longer walk.  Meanwhile, Einstein was heading back to the house.  He was too cold.  My human went to put him in the house, and told me to wait outside - because she would take me up to the road.  She went to get my pills before we went.  Only problem - she left the front door open just a crack.  A crack wide enough to fit a Picard.  Imagine her horror when she looked at the door and saw him standing outside.  She slowly approached him.  And it was at that second that the deaf rocket dog realized he was FREE - and he was going to go for a much needed run - away from home.  He sprinted up the icy driveway and my human knew that she had a major problem.

She fired me in the house and ran into the garage. She jumped in the car, and immediately called Jackson’s human.  Luckily, one of his humans was home and available, so she said she would throw on her coat and head out with Jackson.  Meanwhile, my human had just driven up to the road.  She parked the car in front of a neighbor’s driveway and was about to walk down to their house when she spotted the runaway - racing along the road ahead of her.  She drove toward him and slowed down as she approached.  Of course Mr Sociable came over to see who was in the vehicle.  She opened the window and in her cheery voice that hides the “I could scream right now” voice -she got out of the vehicle.  And grabbed him by his collar.  Busted.  She put him in the vehicle - her heart still pounding.   She called Jackson’s human and said that the escapee had been captured.  She explained that his escape was probably because he just hasn’t had enough exercise with the weather - and Jackson’s human commiserated that Jackson was the same - and he had even put on a few lbs.   My human said she should probably take the FG to the ball field - despite the sub freezing temps.  Jackson’s human asked if they could join them - and my human happily agreed.  So she picked them up and off they went to the field.  

So the dogs ran around while the humans fetched toys and shivered in the brutal icy wind.  After about a half hour, the humans had had enough so everyone was loaded back in the vehicle to go home.  My human thanked Jackson’s human for coming to their rescue.  Jackson’s human didn’t mind - thank goodness for good neighbors!

So, in essence, the FG was rewarded for bad behavior.  Go figure.  But truthfully, he was just answering the call of the wild.  He HAD to run. 

My human will sure be glad when this winter is over so we can get back into our regular walking routine.  We ALL need it.

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 17

Our poor human....

So we had some SPECIAL weather Sunday night.  When we went to bed, there was snow/freezing rain and a wind warning.  We peed very quickly for our last pee of the night.

My human, much to our surprise, decided to sleep on the couch in the DFZ.  She was super tired and for some odd reason didn’t want three dogs jumping on and off the bed all night.  She does that every now and then - when she wants a good night’s sleep.  Personally, I think sleeping is overrated- but then I do get to sleep for hours every day.  

Anyway at 2:30 AM, my human was awakened by a sudden beeping sound.  Einstein jumped up and started barking.  The beeping stopped.  She had to put on her glasses because she can’t hear without them.  I know- glasses are for seeing- but she needed them to determine where the beep had come from.  Silence.  Silence.  Silence.  She decided to let each one of us out in the dog run for a quick pee.  Not all of us at the same time.  I have this new loud attack game with Einstein when we go out there- and we can be heard for a long distance.  So my human figured the neighbors didn’t need a 2:30 AM PON alarm.  So out we went.  One by one.  When we came back in, she went to investigate where the beeping had come from.  She was starting to think maybe she had dreamed it.  But Einstein heard it too. She took him on patrol downstairs- to check the smoke alarms, the furnace and the water filtration system.  Which sometimes beeps if the bulb burns out. No signs of anything odd.

As they were coming back up, she heard the beeps again, three in a row.  Like the beeps from our house alarm.  She went in the garage and looked at the smoke alarm there.  Does it ALWAYS flash green?  She figured that was the problem.  So she got a ladder and went to take it apart.  Beepbeepbeepbeepbeepbeepbeepbeepbeepbeep.  The house alarm went crazy - just like it would before the sirens would go off.  Meanwhile we canines were racing around wondering what to do.  She jammed the smoke alarm back together and raced down the ladder.  She quickly put in the alarm code.  The beeping stopped.  So she called the alarm people to let them know it was a false alarm.  That’s all we needed - the fire department or police at our door in the middle of a storm. She also realized she had never changed our phone number with the alarm company - so if they tried to call, they wouldn’t get anyone.  She told the dispatcher that all was fine.  

She hung up, and she heard the beep again. The panel on the security system.  Why she didn’t check that in the first place, I don’t know.  Mind you, humans at 2:30AM cannot be trusted to make smart decisions.  I should have taken advantage and pretended it was breakfast time.  I suppose she wasn’t THAT dozy. 

She looked at the panel and it signaled something with the bedroom window.  So she went to check and sure enough, the window sensor was not touching the contact.  This happened once before.  She jiggled the thing, came back to the panel, and all was good.  And no more beeps.

By this time, it was 3:15, so we figured we might as well just stay up.  Imagine our utter disappointment when she said “Go back to sleep.”  Mind you, we PONs were not in a huge hurry to go out - we heard that pouring icy rain.

We did go back to sleep - and we actually let my human sleep in until 7AM!!!!!  

But my human’s day did not exactly get better....

The plow guy had come  in the middle of the night.  It continued to snow/rain after he was here.  When we went out for our SHORT walks at 7 AM,  we found a driveway covered in two inches of heavy HEAVY slush.  Frankly, we PONs were  appalled.  Who likes wet slushy feet?! Not us.  The FG didn’t care.  So after breakfast, my human went out to try and move the 4000 tons of slush around.  She figured the plow guy had come once, so he wouldn’t be back again.  We barked out instructions as she struggled to stay upright on the slippery, slushy surface.  She thought for .06 seconds about letting us run around outside while she was working, but she had visions of chasing us in the woods. I’m not sure why she didn’t just let us out in the run. Could be because Einstein would have been barking nonstop - so she decided we were better off indoors.  She pushed, pulled and dragged slush. Her socks were wet in her waterproof boots.  She was sweating in the cold damp air.  She used up all the salt she had.  She worked for close to two hours. She came in and collapsed.  Just as the plow guy returned....

We were very nice to my human for the rest of the day....Isn’t winter fun?

Have a good one.  Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days:  16

More false advertising.

So the FG got to do his political paw shaking yesterday.  And from what I hear, there was a whole lot of false advertising.  He totally behaved himself. 

When they walked in the door, one of the Boy Scout leaders - who help out at the show - shouted “It’s Elroy!!!!”   She had to come right over and tell my human that the other leader sent her good wishes - as she couldn’t be there - and figured Elroy might be there on Sunday.  He has his own mini fan club.

Meanwhile he sat on the grooming table giving kisses to most people who wanted one.  And a few to people who didn’t want kisses.  

Everyone remarked how calm and extremely well behaved he was.  They didn’t see him when my human had to wrestle with him as he got out of the vehicle.  He was a whirling dervish. But they somehow managed to get from the car and into the venue. Meet the Breed was right by the entrance and in a move like something out of a Wonder Woman movie, she quickly hoisted him onto an empty grooming table before he even knew what happened.  And the parade of spectators began.  My human held onto his collar - when well intentioned but somewhat naive people would suddenly come over and stick their face in his.  Luckily he has a super temperament-,but she would then explain that not all dogs - including other Picards would necessarily appreciate an up close and personal greeting.  Her mind kept uttering other comments- but just like we dogs are expected to be good ambassadors, so are our humans.

When their hour was up, they were quite happy to head out.  But not before a stop at the baseball diamond- where my human played fetch with herself while the FG burned off some steam after his docile political appearance.

So all in all, a good dog show. No ribbons - but we were big winners just the same. Even with a bit of false advertising....

Have a good one.  Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 15

The FG. A frozen dog and a stinky dog.

Today the FG gets to go to the dog show.  Lucky him.  I shouldn’t really complain though, I got to go Friday.  Einstein should be the one complaining.

The FG’s grooming will take all of 10 minutes.   Again.  Lucky him.  We’ll see how it goes...

So in the meantime, what’s new in the world of dogs?  Well every now and then you hear about some poor dog who goes out onto ice at this time of the year.  And sadly needs to be rescued. 

That happened in Estonia.  So two good  Samaritans risked ther lives and brought the almost frozen dog to the vet.  Turns out the dog wasn’t a dog!  It was a wolf!!!  They ended up treating the wolf and then released him back into the wild.  That was one very lucky wolf.  And two lucky Samaritans!

Then there is the story of the 12 year old dog who was lost when the tragic forest fires raged in California.   His family was devastated but never gave up hope that he would be found.  Well 101 days later, he was reunited with his family!  A group that was rescuing cats captured him - and brought him home.  Wonderful news.  But one tiny downside.  They figure the dog survived by eating his favorite delicacy.  Skunks.  He smelled strongly of skunk, even after several baths. Still - it was a very happy reunion. Even though it was a bit stinky!

Well time for me to give the FG his pep talk before he goes on the Picard political gig.  My human will extol the virtues of the carpet eating, picky food eating, crazy runaway.   And with any luck, he will demonstrate his very best behavior.  

I’ll let you know how it goes!

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 14

Polish Lowland Politician

Well from the photo,  you can see who got to go to Meet the Breed.  Yup- yours truly got to play Polish Lowland politician. And we had a fair number of  visitors.  We were set up right near the entrance- so we were hard to miss. Lots of people came by -asking questions and just wanting to pet me. 

Now let’s face it- we PONs are NOT Labradors or Goldens- who immediately treat everybody like they are long lost friends.  We PONs are aloof by nature- like lots of herding breeds.  So while I am fine to have people petting me and I do NOT shy away at all, I pretty much just sit and look at people. I’m not a kisser. I don’t jump up on people. Except for the one woman whose pockets contained food. I tried very intently to get in her pockets. Otherwise, I’m pretty much like a stuffed dog.  Which is a BIT deceiving- because people were remarking what calm, easy dogs we must be.  One guy even said we must be “couch potatoes.”  My human had to further discuss energy levels and the fact that we DO need exercise- and activities.  Bored PONs are not happy PONs. 

But there was ONE person I was actually interested in. She came by, said my name and I jumped right up to say hello.  And I sniffed her face- and wagged my tail.  It was my treasurer!  Remember - I call a group of puppies a treasury - not a litter. ( Dogs aren’t garbage..)  And so breeders are treasurers! Yup I recognized her - even though I haven’t seen her in years!! We dogs don’t forget!

So my human told everybody the pros and cons of being owned by a PON. And for people who seemed really interested- she gave them a business card.  It had info about PONs on one side- and Picards on the other.  And it had a link to my blog.  Where they can connect with my human for more info. 

She used to print off info sheets, but let’s face it - most people search on-line once they have some basic info.  So my human printed the cards- which don’t kill as many trees- and are easier to carry around. 

So all in all, a good gig.  I put up with the grooming before we went and the “cute barrette and Nova Scotian tartan scarf “.  I could have done without those - but anything for treats...

Today, nobody is on duty - but tomorrow morning it’s the FG’s  turn.  My human had two people ask where to find the Picard- they didn’t know she was the owner.  So I think Mr Kisses will be busy Sunday. And he doesn’t even want treats for doing his gig...

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 13

Dog Show!!!!

Well, well, well.  She certainly kept this one a secret.  But the cat’s out of the bag.  Make that dog.  Who knew that this weekend is the Halifax Kennel Club Dog Show....

It seems that this retirement mode has really made my human rather hmmmmm... dozy.  She already doesn’t know what day of the week it is, let alone the date.  If it weren’t for helping with my blog, she would still think it is January.  No wonder she frequently makes errors with my seizure count.

So because she is living in the newfound retirement fog, she missed the closing date to enter the FG in the beauty pageant.  By the time she realized, the shows were closed.  Well.  Two of them were.  (There are four shows this weekend).  She COULD have entered the other two - but it would have meant driving her entry over 30km to the secretary’s house before 10:00PM ( when she realized her dilemma after 7:30 that evening).  She was all comfy in our toasty house, and she was too lazy to face the elements.  So no entry.

But not to worry - we can still participate in Meet the Breed.  That’s where you sit on a grooming table, you’re fed copious amounts of treats and you get to meet your adoring public.  It’s a good gig.  There are displays of all the breeds represented.  And my human added a new feature for us this year.  But I’ll wait to tell you about it- because she’s not finished.  She clearly has too much time on her hands.

So now the Great debate.  Me.  Or Einstein.  And of course the FG has his own time slot.  Whoever it is between us PONs will require some grooming- because it is tonight.  The FG goes Sunday.  We’ll see who wins the coin toss...oh the anticipation...

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 12

Poop bags. The sequel.

One of the big challenges faced by humans these days (and really ALL of us) is what to do with plastic bags.  They don’t break down in landfill sites and can last a long long time.  Many cities are actually banning them.  They are talking about doing it in our area- and most stores that still give them out here charge a few pennies to buy them.  Which brings me to my favorite topic...poop.  If plastic bags are banned, what is one to do with dog poop?  

We know the drama in this household when our local Dollar Store discontinued handled poop bags for a while.  We resorted to stockpiling what we could find and friends even gave us bags.  Bags even arrived in the mail.  The problem with many poop bags - they are not biodegradable.  So we add to the plastic bag dilemma.  And did you know that not all bags labeled as biodegradable are really that?  For something to be called biodegradable, it should break down in a year.  In the US in 2015, 20 poop bag manufacturers were warned that their bags were not really biodegradable.  To truly break down, they need to be made of maize flour and vegetable oil.  And these bags do exist - but of course, they are very pricey.

Composting poop or using the methane from poop has been done (to power lights in dog parks).  Those are great ideas - but they still don’t really solve the poop transportation problem when you are out on a walk.  Sure you can use a scooper at home - but who wants to carry a scooper on a walk around the neighborhood.  My human burst out loud laughing when she read that a zero-waste Facebook group suggested using junk mail, leaves or toilet paper to transport the deposit to a toilet.  CLEARLY the people in that group do NOT own dogs. All my human could visualize was her friend who has a Saint Bernard.  Take a walk carrying THAT poop in toilet paper.  The image seems like something out of a comedy skit. 

Given that this blog has an audience around the world, I would be curious to know what people are doing elsewhere. Can you use plastic poop bags ?   If not, are you using leaves?  Sorry but this image is really pretty funny too. Biodegradable is truly the answer - but there must be a way to make them more affordable.  We canines need to start a global movement.  For cheaper access to biodegradable bags.   To help save our planet.  A movement about movement.  Sorry.  I couldn’t resist. Perhaps that could be my election platform....

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 11

MMOA

February 20. And on this day in 1872, the Metropolitan Museum of Art opened in New York City.  So I decided to go and visit the museum.  On-line.  And just for fun, I did a search for the word “dog.”  And I got 2459 results.  All kinds of works of art that have something to do with dogs.  Or at least have the word dog in the title.

There are dogs from hundred and hundreds and hundreds of years ago.   Dogs made of everything from elephant ivory to terra-cotta to bronze to gold to jade to bone and to fine porcelain. Dogs depicted in sketches, photos, water colors, oils and tapestries.  Dog collars.  Dog beds.  If you do a search yourself, you will be amazed at the variety of works related to dogs.  There are even some dog mummies.  Really. 

I was going to send you on a scavenger hunt...but there are so many options, I thought it would be crazy.  Instead, let me share a few of my favorite works.  When you go to the main page, 

https://www.metmuseum.org/

click the search and then type in the Accession number.  These are some of my faves:

1972.9. I love these two!  I think it really depicts the love between the boy and his dog.

1977.44. OK. I know it’s supposed to be a Maltese, but it’s the closest thing to a PON I could find.  Which leads me to the next one - and a mystery solved...

2014.568.    The Maltese was also called a Shock dog.  So the mystery....My human has a print from 1793 with various dog breeds.  And she always wondered about this guy - labeled as a Shock dog.

So now she knows the answer.  Mind you, she still thinks all of us could also be called Shock dogs.  For obvious reasons...

93.6.2. My human thinks we should have got her this for Valentine’s Day.  Maybe next year.

07.122 I like this because what’s not to like about a Renoir?

OK.  And now leaving our favorites- let’s take a look at some others...with my personal commentary...

1974.356.416. My title?  Serious bed head. Or Grooming gone bad.

62.635.493. Walking Elroy.  (OK - he IS getting better. But still...moments like these DO still exist).

2012.136.440. Early obedience class.

68.750. Happy Henrietta and Happy Harry.  Who ate too much spicy food.

57.559.36. Proof the Dollar Stores existed in the 18th century.

29.100.104. This has memories of an old Far Side cartoon.  Of a missing dog...Google it...

So that’s your tour for today.  If you have loads of time, you can scroll through all 2000+ works.  I think I did about 874.   But I never did find a PON or Picard....let me know if you do!

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 10

Adventures

I’m not sure how the FG got so lucky - but he went on an adventure on Sunday.  Meanwhile, yours truly and Einstein got special treats- and stayed home to do guard duty.

The FG is a quick learner.  Despite the fact that he still doesn’t always sit when asked to do so.  He looks at my human like he has never heard the word. 

Anyway, he could tell she was getting ready to go somewhere so when she opened the garage door, to let us go out for a pee, instead of going out into the run, he just stood by the car.  He figured, based on the fact that he went out the other day, that he would be going again. She had to drag him out to pee.

She then loaded him in Ludwig, and gave us our guilt treats. And off they went.  They only drove as far as the end of our road to the beginning of the public trail.  She took him out.  Why?  Because remember, he is poop-dictable.  She KNEW he would want to poop when they got to their destination, so she decided to do some pre-destination elimination.  Sure enough, he was out of the vehicle for less than 5 minutes and they had results.  My human scooped and deposited the bounty in the big can at the trail head.  And back in the vehicle they went.

Before they had left the house, my human had checked for dog friendly stores on-line.  She had also called one - to be sure the web info was up to date.  Let’s face it, walking in with the FG is not really an inconspicuous move- especially if dogs are NOT allowed. But this place - a building/home supply store said they allowed dogs. “But they had to be on leash.”  Can you imagine the FG OFF leash?!  That would be the end of the pet friendly policy.

Anyway, my human went in with the FG to get some kind of adhesive for some new craft project that will probably never amount to anything.  And it can join the cupboard of dried up supplies from other nonproductive projects.  Ya gotta love her.

While she was deciding what she wanted to purchase, she told the FG to sit.  He actually did, but when the decision making process took more than a minute, he slid down and made himself comfortable.  Next stop- light bulbs.  Again my human asked him to sit.  If you haven’t bought lightbulbs lately- the process can be daunting.  So as my human tried to decide what she needed, she heard someone say “Is that Elroy?”  She looked up and it was our neighbors - the humans who were owned by our old friend, Hudson.  They actually have a new companion in the household- a kitten named Phil.  We haven’t yet had the pleasure- but my human has, and she says he’s awfully cute.  But back to the FG. He greeted them, and they were frankly surprised at how well behaved he was.  Personally, I think it was the novelty - he was in shock.  So his normal insane, check-it-out, chew-on-it, pull-the-leash behavior was calmed.  And no - my human did not give him any of my CBD before they went.

They chatted with the neighbors and went to the check out, where he again behaved.  Good enough to try another store.  The pet store.  

That one was pretty much a no brainer.  He goes in.  The staff know him.  He’s pretty much under control- unless he sees a fellow canine shopper.  Best to avoid those aisles.  But again, he was well behaved overall.

Back in Ludwig.  Do they DARE try a third store?  My human sat in the car and called the establishment- to see if they REALLY allowed pets.  Yup.  Chapters - the BIG book store -which is like Barnes and Noble. She was a LITTLE worried about this one.  Walking through a concrete warehouse type store or a store that caters to canines is one thing -but a library-like environment which also sells snacks and toys and other “stuff” - she just wasn’t sure how the FG would react.  But they paraded in - with more than one surprised look.

She approached a clerk to ask for a book she needed - and low and behold, it was the same person who had answered the phone and had said “we love pets”. So she was quite happy to meet the FG, who again behaved quite respectfully.  He waited patiently in the line up to pay- and only knocked over two magazines while my human was checking out.

So the FG was very successful in his adventures!! My human didn’t have to tell anyone he was a coyote-doodle.  That’s what she says when he doesn’t behave.

When they got home, she took me and Einstein down to the lake.  Or should I say she slid us down to the lake.  After all the rain, and then the freezing-well we have NEVER encountered such bad ice.  Einstein quickly figured out how to stay in the snow on the sides of the path to keep from sliding.  Me?  I like the sliding- it builds muscle. My human?  She almost resorted to crawling.  But she somehow stayed on 2 feet.

So all in all a “good dog” day.  The FG behaved and we PONs didn’t run away on our walk.  Not as if we could though, with all the ice.

Let’s see what other adventures we have this week.  And whether she REALLY starts that craft project!!!

Have a good one. Peace and paws up!

Seizure free days: 9

President’s Day

OK.  I am going to give you a list of dog breeds.  And I want you to tell me what they all have in common.  Here we go: Briard, Bulldog, Bull terrier, Airedale terrier, Scottish terrier, Welsh terrier, Manchester terrier, Yorkshire terrier, Wire fox terrier, Afghan, Bouvier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Belgian sheepdog, Old English sheepdog, German Sherpherd, American Foxhound, Black and Tan Coonhound, Italian Greyhound, Greyhound, Newfoundland, Portuguese Water Dog, Chesapeake Bay retriever, Chow chow, Labrador retriever, Golden retriever, English setter, Irish setter, Beagle, Do Erdman Pinscher, English Springer spaniel, Cocker spaniel, Collie, Dachshund, English mastiff, Bullmastiff, Miniature Schnauzer, St. Bernard, Malinois, Eskimo Dog, Irish Wolfhound, Norwegian elkhound, Border collie, Pekingese, Llewelyn setter, Japanese Chin, Weimaraner, Poodle, Siberian husky, and Great Dane.  

They are from from every group of dogs.  Yup - but that’s not the link.  They are all Westminster Best in Show winners.  Nope.  They are the most popular breeds in order.   Nope. Give up?  They are all breeds that have been owned by US Presidents!  And given that today is President’s Day in the US, I though we could talk a bit about Presidential pets.

Not ALL Presidents had dogs - but MANY did.  For example, Andrew Johnson had no pets - just some white mice he found in his bedroom.  In the WHITE House. 

 James Madison had a parrot.  Named Polly.  Of course.

Theodore Roosevelt had a great variety of “pets” including a macaw, a lizard, guinea pigs, a pony, hen, rooster, piebald rat, garter snake, badger, black bear, cats, hyena and an owl.  And of course a variety of dogs including a number of terriers, a Saint Bernard, a Pekingese, multi-bred dogs and a Chesapeake Bay retriever.  Some of those more unusual animals like the bear and the hyena were gifts - and understandably ended up living in zoos.  Mind you, some might call the White House a bit of a zoo.  But I digress.

Calvin Coolidge also had a unique menagerie as well - including raccoons, a donkey, canaries, a bobcat, a wallaby, another black bear (seemed to be a popular gift back in the day), lion cubs, a duiker (google it) and my all time favorite - a pygmy hippopotamus- whose full name was William Johnson Hippopotamus.  His call name was Billy.  Coolidge also had lots of dogs including a Chow chow, bulldog, sheltie, Airedale, Wirehair Fox terrier, Collies, an English setter and a Groenendael.

In terms of interesting Presidential dog facts, here are a few sourced from Wikipedia:

• George Washington was an avid dog lover, who was instrumental in starting the American Foxhound breed
• Abraham Lincoln had a dog, who was sadly killed after Lincoln was assassinated.  The dog’s name was Fido. The name is said to be where the generic dog name originated.   So when I refer to “Fido” it dates back to Lincoln’s dog. Who knew?
• Jimmy Carter’s daughter, Amy, was given a multi breed (mostly Border Collie) dog  by her teacher.  The dog had to be returned when it snapped at several White House guests.  It didn’t say if the teacher was a Republican or Democrat.
• William Howard Taft’s only “pets” were cows.  When the opera singer, Enrico Caruso performed at the White House, he decided that Taft’s daughter should have a REAL pet.  So he gave her a dog.  Who was aptly named Caruso.
• John F. Kennedy received a puppy, Pushinka as a gift from the Soviet Union.  The puppy’s mother, Strelka, was one of the dogs who traveled in space.   Pushinka was later bred and it is said that her descendants are still living.  Who knew that one?
• Lyndon Johnson had beagles, Him and Her (I’m not kidding) and a multi-breed dog named Yuki, who was famous for signing duets with the President.  The pair were said to be inseparable - with Yuki even dancing with the President at his daughter’s wedding. Johnson was said to love dogs.  However  a photo in which he appears to be lifting one of his Beagles by the ears was met with outrage.  Some say that’s part of the reason he lost re-election.  He apologized and said he had been doing that to his dog forever - and the dog did not appear to mind. Hard to know.  I found this audio where he talks about dogs which was released after his retirement from politics... it seems like he did have affection for his canine companions...but as I said - hard to know....   http://youtu.be/BqdkeI5KwWI
• George H. W. Bush’s Springer Spaniel,  Millie, wrote a book that reached #1 on the New York Times bestseller list.
• George W. Bush’s Scottish terrier, Barney, had his own official webpage, and released a series of films called Barneycams.
• Barack Obama’s First Dog, Bo, a Portuguese Water Dog was chosen because one of Obama’s daughter has allergies - and the breed is said to be hypoallergenic.   The President got backlash for not adopting a rescue.  Because there are SO many hypoallergenic dogs in rescue.  OK.  That was sarcastic.  Anyway, the Obama’s made a donation to the Humane Society - to keep the animal rights people happy.  And then they got a second Portie, named Sunny.  They had also initially considered a doodle.  Thank goodness for the correct choice....

To see a great selection of photos of Presidents and their pets, check out this link:

https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/entry/41-photos-of-presidential-pets-over-time_us_5a8f2750e4b0664343557492

So that’s your Presidential canine trivia for today.  Note I didn’t say anything snide about the current pets in the White House.  Oh wait - there aren’t any...

Have a good one.  Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 8

Westminster. Post script.

So what do the names King, Rudy, Verb, Winky and Heart all have in common? Well - they all competed at Westminster- and each one was a winner - in his or her own way.

First we have King - the 7 year old wire fox terrier from Brazil who won Best in Show. The beauty pageant supreme winner.  Counting his win at Westminster, he has won 47 Best in Show titles.  That’s a LOT of showing! According to stats, wire fox terriers have won Westminster 15 times - the most any breed has ever won. Anyway, I guess it’s an example of picking a good name for a dog - he lived up to it!

Then we have Verb, the border collie who won the agility competition.  Check this out...

https://youtu.be/GhKmykc02Bw

Seems to me he could have gone a little faster.  JUST KIDDING.  Wonder what HE eats for breakfast?!

I couldn’t find a good video of Heart, the four time obedience champion in the actual obedience competition, but here is a video of him doing a freestyle obedience routine.  

https://youtu.be/Qh8waFZQgKU

OK.  The whole ballon thing would make my mind explode.  But he didn’t care!!!!!  Now that’s obedience!

Then we have Rudy.  Rudy is a bulldog.  And when Rudy lined up to run the agility course, I think some people had some preconceived notions about what that would be like.  I think they envisioned this slow moving, lumbering dog who would hardly make it around the course.  Wrongo.  Never judge a book by it’s cover!

https://youtu.be/DhWC9R3IA0Y

And last but not least, we have MY favorite competitor.  Winky.  The bichon frise who competed in agility.  Winky should be a PON.  Because he does it HIS way.  And he LOVES his adoring public...

https://youtu.be/V3cENep5diI

Isn’t he the BEST?!!!

And this video is different.  It’s also a Westminster video.  Without the dogs.  Check it out!

https://twistedsifter.com/videos/2019-westminster-dog-show-without-dogs/

Is that not crazy?   And really,  that’s what the world would look like if there weren’t any dogs!   You humans would be running around looking daft.  Aren’t you lucky you have us?!

Now pass the treats.

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 7

The walk. And Lassie.

Yesterday, my human got a text from her friend, Marg, asking her if she wanted to go for a walk.  It was a nice sunny day - and a window of opportunity to get out before the rain storm that was in the forecast for last night and today.  Yup.  One day a snowstorm.  Two days later, a rain storm.  Oh and then there will be ice.  Good times. Marg suggested that canines come along.

Now my human thought for .005 seconds about taking all three of us- as she would have another set of hands. She actually thought about taking all of us to the ball field.  BUT - the snow had a fine coating of ice - and she envisioned one of us tearing a muscle in our typical crazed ball field state.  So she suggested to Marg that they go to the boardwalk on the waterfront downtown- and she would just take one of us. The FG’s name was drawn.  Einstein and I got extra treats while they headed out.

They picked up Marg and drove downtown.  They parked and headed for the boardwalk.  As my human predicted, the FG pooped within 5 minutes of starting the walk.  He is so poop-dictable.  EVERY time he goes downtown, he gets SO excited, he has to poop.  Right in front of the Farmers Market.  Every time.  

Anyway, my human was prepared with 45 poop bags, so no problem with scooping. They walked down the waterfront and had a lovely time.  Until they headed back.

The boardwalk was clear of ice and snow.  But at one point, they cut through a parking lot, and found they needed to walk across a snowy area.  An icy, snowy area.  Marg started walking one direction while my human went another direction, plotting her route, and trying to keep the FG from pulling on the icy surface.  She was busy looking down and she heard a clunk.  She looked up and saw Marg sprawled out on the ice.  “OMG - are you Ok??????” she asked, “did you hit your head?????” Marg said said no but lay on the ice- for a few seconds - although it seemed like minutes.  The FG, seeing the downed friend, suddenly decided he was Lassie and wanted nothing more than to go over to her.   He was squeaking and pulling and my human could barely hold onto him.  She felt helpless- she couldn’t approach her friend for fear Lassie would add to her injuries.  So she just stood there like a useless statue, trying to stay still on the icy surface with the crazed Picard, asking again if her friend was OK and if she thought she broke anything. 

THANKFULLY, Marg was OK.  She got up slowly - and will no doubt be bruised, but they didn’t need to call 911.  The FG was quite happy to see her get up.  And of course, so was my human!!!  Thank goodness for big puffy coats. 

 

They continued on their journey back to the vehicle and Lassie actually behaved quite well.  He DOES try to say hello to pretty much everyone who passes by - he would make a good politician.  When Marg went into the market to get some fish, the clerk had to come out to meet him.  Yup - he’s a pretty good ambassador. When he’s not chewing on carpets. Or pooping in the most conspicuous locations.

Marg has offered to come with all three of us to the ball field when the ice clears.  My human explained that even without ice, she will be required to wear a helmet and sign a waiver. Oh - and she needs to wear ear protection - for barking.  She still said yes.  Let this be evidence that she has been forewarned.

Today we have rain which is supposed to last until this afternoon.  It’s Saturday- but every day feels like Saturday now.  My human says that we need to let her sleep in until after 5AM.  I still say Carpe Diem....Speaking of which - time to go out.  Although... I do hear that rain....

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 6

The cable guy

Well the cable guy came yesterday.  So he could fix the TV channel that Westminster is on.  Or should I say WAS on. At this point it’s moot.  Unless some Royal decides to get married, my human probably won’t have the TV on again until next Westminster.  I know - we shouldn’t even BOTHER with cable TV.  But it was a “bundle” when we got our new internet service.  It was cheaper to get “the bundle”.  Go figure. Kind of like buying dog biscuits in bulk.

Anyway, as he made his way around the house, we were pitifully sequestered on the deck.  Not to worry - it wasn’t THAT cold.  But we smashed our faces against the deck door, and when Einstein barked, and the FG continually scraped at the screen door ( which will definitely need replacement this spring) and I squeaked like someone forgot to feed me breakfast - my human had to let us in. The unfamiliar repair guy said “oh that’s ok- they can be inside.”  My human said “ummmm I think I’ll just put them in the bedroom.  Do you need access to that TV any more?”  He said no- so while he was in the garage, she corralled us and tricked us to going into the bedroom.  She put a raggedy gate against the door and told us to settle down.  As IF we could.  Come on.  There’s some stranger who has never been victim to our over exuberant welcoming behavior?!  (Read: incessant barking and bouncing off said victim). We all stayed like sentries at the gate, while the FG made an incessant squeaking sound. Kind of like nails on a chalkboard.  Every now and then he also let out a big dog bark. Just to mix things up.

So buddy left and we did a thorough inspection of all his work.  He claimed they needed to change some wiring to the house which would require several guys and a bucket truck.  Now THAT would be fun.  We LOVE the sound of big trucks.  You should see what happens when Einstein hears the beep-beep-beep reverse sound of a truck -even a recording of that sound.  It reminds him of the oil delivery truck.  So he goes CRAZY.  The idea of a bucket truck was so cool.  We got all excited about the idea.  And then buddy came BACK. 

He said he figured out another idea as he left.  I think he called someone for help.  And they told him what to do.  So back in the bedroom we went.  He went back in the garage and did something.  “There he said- the problem is fixed!”  “Great” my human said.  “So no bucket truck?!”  “Nope” he said, as we canines all frowned.  

He was ready to go out the door, and now my human realized the Internet was not working.  Good think she noticed before he left.  I’m not kidding.  You can’t make this up.  He did the highly technical procedure of unplugging the modem and plugging it back in.  Nope.  No WiFi.  By this time, my human was starting to lose faith- and wondering if she should have just left the TV alone.  Westminster was over.  

The good news was that we settled down.  We realized this could be a long process- and by now we were  getting tired. We watched him as he made numerous trips to the garage and then downstairs. After about 20 minutes he announced that everything was working- and no need for the bucket truck.  Darn.

After he left, the FG walked around squeaking- he was crushed that he didn’t get to say hello. We PONs were just glad he was gone.

So all of our technology is working.  For now anyway. Paws crossed it stays that way...Personally, I think Einstein could have probably repaired it himself.  He’s smart enough....

Have a good one. Peace and paws up!

Seizure free days: 5

Valentine’s Day!

What happens when you are having a special weather day, you have all been groomed, and it is the day before Valentines Day?  You guessed it.  Photo shoot.  

Now while you get to see the best results,  you have no idea what it is like to get a good group shot.  NO idea.  It is like trying to get a group of toddlers who just ate chocolate cake to stay still.  Or it’s like herding goldfish in a swimming pool.  Or catching falling leaves during a hurricane.  You get the picture.  And while we didn’t video the process, here’s a snippet of the dialogue.  Or is it monologue since we don’t do a lot of talking.  Then again, Einstein does...

“OK.  We are going to take some photos.  And we will behave civilly.  First, Frodo you come in the garage.  OK Viktor since you just burst through the door, you come too.  Now, sit on this cloth.  Viktor sit.  Viktor sit.  Viktor sit.  Now, let’s put on these hearts.  Viktor stop chewing Frodo’s heart.   Viktor sit. OK. Frodo sit.   Now  Frodo you know how to sit.  Let’s get a shot of you two.  Viktor stop sniffing.  Look up.  Viktor look up.  Sit.  Staaaaaaaaaay.    Staaaaay.  OK.  Treats.  One for Frodo and one for Viktor.  Now sit and STAY while I get Elroy...

Hey.  I told you both to stay.  Elroy sit here.  Viktor.  Viktor.  Viktor, come here.  Sit.  Frodo sit here.  Frodo move closer.  Elroy sit.  OK everybody....staaaaaaaaaay.  OK smile.  Really.  Smile.  Frodo speak. (After Frodo speaks he always smiles.  And Frodo LOVES to speak.  Any other time.). Frodo speak.  Frodo speak.  Good!   Viktor look up.  Sqeeeeeeeee.  (And other assorted sounds all of which we have heard before.) Viktor sit.  Excellent. I think we got 73.  Here’s a treat.  Frodo. Viktor.  Elroy.  Now sit again.  Elroy get up.  Viktor sit.  Frodo speak.  Speak!  (She throw s a treat in the air. ) OK.......loooking goooooooood.   Got another 48 shots.  Free.  Here’s a treat. 

Hmmmmmmm.  These aren’t very good......Let’s try ONE more time.  

(Now she resorts to physically picking us up and placing us in position. Elroy sit.  Viktor sit.  Frodo come here.  Frodo (who has gone to search for the treat).  Frodo - you ripped your heart off.  Awwwwwww.  Seriously?   Here.  Put on this sign.  OK we can’t see the word Happy, but who cares.  Viktor sit.  Good sit Elroy.   Try not to look like you are being tortured.  Frodo sit.   Staaaaay........Bumf, bumf, bumf (She’ll try any sound).  Nice!  Treats.  Frodo.   Viktor.  Elroy.  OK. Lets’s try one lying down.  Down. Everybody down.  Good down Elroy.  Sorry Frodo - you can’t go down with the sign on.  Oops.  Viktor down.  Viktor down.  Frodo down.  Elroy good down.  Viktor down.  Forget it.  We’ll go with the sitting shots.  Treats all around.  And a drink for me!”

Yup.  That’s a typical group shot.  Doesn’t it sound like great fun?  We get treats for pretty much sitting there.  When we actually sit.

So I know I’m plagiarizing parts of my own stuff, but sometimes I can do that.  So here’s our annual poem:

Roses are red,

Violets are blue,

We three dogs are so happy

That we picked you.

You groom us and feed us,

And take us on walks,

One of us eats dryer lint,

The other one talks.

You walk us in the morning,

You walk us at night,

When it happens to be raining

We may put up a fight.

If we are sick 

You take us to the Vet,

You buy me my medicine 

Some that’s difficult to get.

Having three dogs 

May not be economical

But our antics entertain you

We REALLY are comical.

We may be unruly

And sometimes just plain BAD,

But we really DO love you,

And hate if you’re sad.

We wait by the door

From the moment you leave,

And when we hear your car

A HUGE sigh we heave.

And when you return

No matter how long,

We break out in tail wags

And bark out our song.

We’re so happy to see you

When you come in the door, 

Although happiness fades 

When bags read: Dollar store.

We wear antlers and bunny ears

With all of our pride,

If you run out of treats, 

That’s when we hide.

You help with my blog, 

Every single day

Would you ever believe 

A dog had so much to say?

Oh human, OUR human

You’re our Valentine sweet.

We love you and adore you.

Now give us a treat.

Sloppy kisses and lots of love!

Frodo, Viktor and Elroy

Have a good one! Peace and paws up!

Seizure free days: 4

Grooming. And Westminster.

Another SPECIAL day here!  Snow followed by freezing rain and then rain in the forecast. Hey Old Man Winter - how about JUST snow for a change?

So Westminster is over for another year.  The big winner this year was the Wire Fox Terrier.  And the Reserve Best in Show went to the Havanese.  The line -up was missing a dog - the Schipperke was not allowed to compete for Best in Show because the judge for Best in Show’s partner had owned dogs with owners of the Schipperke. Confusing?  It would  basically be a conflict of interest for the judge to judge that dog.  So to “maintain the integrity of the sport” the Schipperke was pulled.   I won’t talk about the overall objectivity of dog shows and figure skating.  Anyway, it was the right thing to do.  And no Schipperke had ever won the Non-sporting group at Westminster, so that alone was a HUGE accomplishment.

I’m glad the show is over - now we can get back to looking our regular scruffy selves.  I don’t think it’s any coincidence that the recent spa treatments here coincided with the big dog show.  Einstein was the final victim yesterday when my human got home from work.  It must be a sign of spring- because his coat was a furry mess.  He looked like a dog who had never seen a brush.  Like some kind of wild stray.  So before the bath, he had some serious brishing.  Once upon a time, when he was in beauty pageants, my human would NEVER cut his hair if it was tangled.  She was careful to remove any mat or tangle by gently breaking it up with a comb and her fingers.  Which was always a challenge with the drama king.  Heaven forbid you gently tug on a tangle.  It’s like he is being murdered.  Unlike yours truly, who couldn’t care less.  

But now that Einstein is no longer on the pageant circuit, my human’s best friend (of the grooming variety) is a dematting comb. I’m sure there are people who just cringed as I say this and  I wouldn’t recommend using these if you are planning to show your dog- as they can remove hunks of hair.  But, if you want to keep a long coat, and you just have the odd mat or tangle, these things get through anything!  

https://www.cherrybrook.com/safari-de-matting-comb/

I see there are other dematting devices - and they probably work ok too - but this is her go to.  Not all the time.  But just for those times when really needed.  Like when you are playing dog show while Westminster is on. When we played, Einstein won the breed, the FG won his breed and I won Best in Show.  Because I was the most cooperative at being groomed. Our rules are a little different than Westminster’s.  We follow the current rules for some kids today - everybody’s a winner - everybody gets a prize.  Works for me.

Well time to venture out in the special weather.  I must say, my human had to contain her joy about not having to drive in to work today!    And of course, so did we!

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 3

The Vet

So we went to the Vet....

First off, I behaved SO well.  My human usually leaves us in the car while we wait for our appointment - to avoid what she calls the zombie pet owners.  You know the ones. Who let their dog rush into your dog’s face saying “oh he’s friendly.”   Or the ones who are so busy paying their bill they don’t pay the least bit attention to their dog who is either approaching other dogs who are just sitting and minding their own business- or they are peeing on the side of the counter. Well she brought me in because it was so cold outside. She plopped me on the bench she was sitting on and loaded me with kibble while the zombies did their thing.

So let’s see. First off, I have gained about 6 lbs.  Probably from all the treats I get with my CBD oil.  But not to worry - I was pretty skinny- and the vet said I am at an ideal weight.  She examined me and everything sounded and looked good.  We did blood work - and everything looks good overall.  My kidneys and liver are good ( which is always a concern with the meds I am on).  There were a couple of anomalies- which are most likely related to one of the meds I am on.  The same one that causes me to get weak in my rear legs.  So.  We decided to add a new med.  And then we will try to wean me off the offending med.  So that sounds all good.

As for the CBD- no answers or suggestions there.  Vets are not able to prescribe it - and well, they don’t know what to say about recommendations.  So you KNOW what my human will do next...email the researchers. Can’t hurt.

So overall, not a bad outing.  I’ll start my new drug tomorrow.

When we got home, we got a surprise in the mail!!  A present for us boys!!!! A tug toy from our friend Gatsby the Picard - who lives in Michigan!!! That was so nice!

But of course, Einstein immediately claimed it as his own.  He had to have a little talk about sharing.  We all DID get to play tug with my human - which we LOVE to do!  Thanks Gatsby!

Last night,  my human was all excited to watch the Westminster group judging.  She never watches TV so went to check to see what channel it would be on.  She turns on the TV, gets the channel, and it’s all pixilated. She tries the other TV.  Same problem.  So she calls technical support.  They have her turning things on and off and she’s going up and down stairs and from room to room.  With three dogs following her and inspecting every adjustment she makes.  After about a half hour of the continuous parade and numerous adjustments , the technician admitted defeat.  We have to have a service person come in.  My human pleaded that something could be done for last night.  I mean besides the Royal Wedding last year, Westminster was the only thing she watched on TV! Alas.  We had to watch pixilated canines.  All was good while they stood still - but as soon as they moved, it was game over.

Congratulations to all the winners!  We would have liked to have seen the Picard or the PON in the group placements, but it wasn’t to be.  Maybe next year.  We thought they looked brilliant.  And we’re not the least bit biased...

Today my human has to go to WORK.  Really.   But just for an hour. Or so she says...Back to guard duty...

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 2

The spa

So I’m off to the Vet today.  We’ll see what she has to say about my recent increase in seizure activity.  Of course, my human is going with info about CBD oil.  In the past, our vet basically shrugged her shoulders- because not enough evidence is out there yet for use with pets.  BUT - research IS happening... and if my vet won’t contact the researchers, you know who will... For someone who has never even tried marijuana, my human is becoming quite knowledgeable about cannabis.  And given the price of the stuff, someone jokingly suggested my human will have to start a plantation.  She’s looking at clearing trees on our property right now.  Just kidding.  Maybe.

Also on the home front, we have a new phrase that is on continual loop right now:  “Leave his ears ALONE!” While mutual ear licking is a hobby around here - carried out generally when my human is not in the room, it has reached the state where Einstein now requires drops in one ear - because it’s a bit inflamed.  It’s always the same ear.  We prefer the left one.  It seems my human manages to get it all cleared up, and then the FG and I both start in again.  The problem is that although Einstein grumbles while we do it, he lets us!  My human has to break up the lick fest and then she looks at him and says “Why do you let them  DO that?”  He just stares at her. 

Yesterday, for some unknown reason, my human decided to give me a bath.  OK.  Truth be told.  I needed it.  I get kind of wild looking after  a seizure...and although waterless shampoo works, she thought I deserved the full spa treatment. Not to mention the fact that nobody likes to take an unsightly dog to the vet.  I actually don’t mind the brushing and bath routine.  There is a never ending source of treats - so what’s so bad about that?

After my spa treatment, since my human  now smelled like wet dog, she decided to give the FG the spa experience too.  He doesn’t care for it.  And he isn’t the least bit interested in treats.  He just keeps trying to get my human to hug him by putting his head on her shoulder.  Making the whole experience quite the challenge.  He pushes her.  She pushes him.  But in the end, he looked pretty good too.  But he never smiles about it.

Einstein escaped the bath-a-thon because my human was too tired after giving both me and the FG the treatments.  Einstein just smiled.  As we proceeded to lick his ear.

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 1

The umbrella

The parts of this object include a top spring, a bottom spring, stretchers, ribs and a ferrule.  Know what it is? Of course you do - it’s an umbrella!  And today, February 10, is Umbrella day. A day to celebrate that rain shielding device that has been around since 21 AD.  The umbrella is a relative of the parasol- with one shielding against rain and the other shielding against the sun.

A little search of the net revealed that there is such a thing as a dog umbrella.  Here ya go:

https://youtu.be/F8RyWF8vo5s

OK.  I must say we laughed hysterically in this house when we saw this.  Clearly this is for smallish dogs.  Imagine walking a Great Dane with one.  You would need really long arms.  But the better vision is of my human walking us two PONs - with one for each of us. The walking alone would be a challenge- but picture stopping to pick up poop.  On a windy day.  Oh the image.... She’s big on trying new things - but we are definitely giving this one a pass.  Mind you - it COULD make an entertaining video....

Umbrellas and dogs have another link because they are actually used as part of canine Temperament Testing.  Temperament testing gives insight into a dog’s behavior and measures things like shyness, aggressiveness, and friendliness.  During the test, the dog is exposed to a variety of situations- and the dog is evaluated on his reaction to each one.  Situations include greeting a friendly stranger, reacting to loud sounds (like someone banging on a pot), walking on uneven footing, encountering an unfriendly, threatening stranger and reacting to a surprising stimulus - which is an umbrella opening before the dog.  The test looks at the dog’s reaction to these things and his ability to recover without excessive shyness or aggression.  Depending on the breed, the evaluators may  have slightly different expectations- but the bottom line is that all dogs must be under control at all times.  Here’s a link that tells you about testing and even has a video of a dog being tested. 

https://atts.org/

When we searched for other Temperament Testing videos, we found one that was labeled as Failed.  Can you imagine having your failed video on-line for all the world to see?  And here it is (I know - I’m sharing their embarrassment too).  But REALLY - he isn’t that bad.  He needs some work, and practice.  He failed because he wouldn’t walk over the uneven surface.  He also had no reaction to the threatening individual- who you can’t see in the video.  The dog was more interested in the water.  He didn’t shy away from the umbrella at all.

https://youtu.be/HMcYAhXnHKg

I’m not sure how we would do in the test.  We would probably be fine with the umbrella.  But pull out a lint roller - and we would be GONE.  We all have a dislike for the lint roller.  And not because my human has used it on us.  It started with one of us sniffing it, not liking the sticky feeling, jumping away - and now we ALL have that reaction!  Hold up the lint roller and it’s a bark-a-thon.  Give us an umbrella any day!

Have a good one. Peace and paws up!

Seizure free days: 0

Sadly the counter has again returned to zero.  I have an appointment with my Vet on Monday morning.   We have to figure this out...

Volleyball

February 9.  And on this day in 1895, a guy by the name of William G. Morgan created a game called Mintonette.  It soon became known as volleyball.

Now while I couldn’t find any dogs actually PLAYING a game on their own, I did find this guy who is assisting on a team:

http://youtu.be/o4zmTkyTu8g

Then I found these guys playing with a balloon.  They certainly have the moves:

http://youtu.be/yFLq6NFmEk0

But probably the most notable when it comes to the moves, is this dog.  Or as someone said in a post yesterday, it’s not a dog.  It’s a Border Collie!

http://youtu.be/_kI9xhIJTFk

Now that’s determination.  Or obsessiveness.  And I bet he wasn’t even a LITTLE bit tired at the end.

My human would like to try it with us - with a balloon.  How long before it breaks?  I’m betting 3.8 seconds.  

We had a rainy day yesterday.  But that didn’t stop us from getting up at 5:30.  To say that this was one of the worst icy days so far is an understatement. When we went out at that point, it was freezing rain.  And the driveway and lawn were the worst yet.  Where’s a guy supposed to poop?  And HOW do you poop when you can’t stand still. It was a case of G&P.  Glide and poop.  It could be a new sport. How long can your poop trail be as you glide along ?  And try peeing with three legs on ice.  Deadly.

 My human attempted to drive up to get the newspaper.  Big mistake.  She didn’t even get 1/4 of the way up the hill and she couldn’t move forward.  The car started sliding backwards down the hill.  We were all barking out “Turn the wheel!!!” As we watched from in the house.  Luckily she did - or she would havs smashed into the island in the middle of the driveway.  She couldn’t get the paper until around noon after the real rain started.  Good times.

Today is Saturday.  But every day is Saturday now.  I’ll have to tell you about the new trick my human played on us to get a few more minutes of sleep....

Have a good one.  Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 7

Scouts

February 8.  And it’s Boy Scouts Day.  The Scouting movement originated in England in 1907, founded by a man named Robert Baden-Powell.  By 1910, the Boys Scouts of America was formed and two years later, the Girl Scouts of America was founded. Today, over 200 countries and territories have scouting programs for boys and girls.

In the US, the first merit badges were started in 1911. You basically had to show that you had knowledge about a certain subject - and you could demonstrate some skill in the area.  I checked back to see what the subjects were for those earliest badges - and was a bit surprised. For example, one was bugling.  And it appears to still exist.  When is the last time you saw a kid bugling?  Other early ones included horsemanship, forestry and first aid.  Which aren’t all that surprising.  But another early one was electricity.  Wonder how many wavers have to be completed for that one today...

In 1938, they added a Dog Care badge.  It was revised in 2003 and more info was made available in a pamphlet in 2008.  I decided to see what is involved- I mean HOW HARD could it be.  Well.  No wonder they call it a MERIT badge.  It involves WORK.  Check out the requirements.

https://meritbadge.org/wiki/images/7/71/Dog_Care.pdf

In 1995 they added a Veterinary Medicine badge.  You probably have to perform surgery to get it.

Today the topics and themes range from moviemaking to programming to sustainability. I also saw that there is even a way to obtain a badge on-line.  My human could get that one.  An on-line shopping badge.

She was in the Scouts from a young age right up until she was a teenager.  It helped to have a mother who was a Scout leader for some of those years. 

I actually found a Pet Care badge on her sash. Clearly the requirements were not as stringent as the current Boy Scout requirements.  And clearly no one knew about how she dropped the gold fish bowl in the sink- with the fish still in it.  He reportedly went to the fish rainbow bridge shortly after the trauma.  And she obviously has forgotten any knowledge of dog obedience training she might have known back then.  Wonder if they can take badges back?  Wonder what the Statite of Limitations is on rescinding badges...

I could get badges- for countersurfing, paper shredding, dryer lint eating...Oh and photo modeling. Here’s a hint - Easter is coming. And my human has already begun taking pictures....

I could really get a badge for patience..

Have a good one.  Peace and paws up!

Seizure free days: 6

Ballet

It’s February 7 and according to the crazy calendar, it’s Ballet Day.  A day to celebrate that elegant, classical, graceful style of dance.

Nobody in this household is THAT graceful.  Certainly not my human - who with the recent icy walking conditions looks more like Frankenstein as she plods along with us.  She’s about as far removed from a graceful ballerina as I am from being an obedience champion. 

Now when I searched for dogs and ballet, I came up with an assortment of photos and even a few videos of dogs dressed in tutus.  Thank GOODNESS they don’t sell them at the Dollar Store.  That would be a totally justifiable reason for running away.  At least until mealtime.

I searched and found the odd poodle prancing around on their hind legs dressed in appropriate attire.  Entertaining maybe. If you enjoy watching tortured dogs.

But THEN, I found THIS video.  We have talked before about the sport of canine freestyle - which is basically a human and dog, dancing together.  They always have a freestyle exhibit at Crufts- and some of the routines are amazing.  I believe I posted one last year.  

Many freestyle routines are set to fairly upbeat music.  But with  this video we have what I think is a great example of dog ballet.  Check it out - it is lovely!

https://youtu.be/uqlGn-K42U8

I’m amazed at how the dog knew what to do without even watching her human!!! They were sometimes facing the opposite direction.  I don’t know what to do even when I can SEE my human.  Well - I do if I can see a treat.   

So that’s my cultured posting for today.  Tomorrow we’ll probably be talking about poop.  I like to mix things up.

Have a good one. Peace and paws up.

Seizure free days: 5