Doxi Doggy Bloggy

I'mmmm Baaackkkk- With Great News!

2009-04-04T21:34:00.003-04:00

Wow- can you believe its been four months since I last blogged here?! I guess family life and work gets in the way so here is an update:

1. Cayman completed his Basic Dog Obedience Training thru the Dog Obedience Club of Lee County on February 11. He was issued not only a certificate of completion but also a 2nd place ribbon which he was awarded for being the 2nd most improved dog in the class! Both were framed and we are please to display them next to his Petco Puppy Education completion certificate.

2. Cayman is definitely growing into one handsome boy. He has gotten gorgeous plumage (not really sure what else to call it) on his tail so when his tail is held high, its a beautiful flag of long gorgeous fur.

3. Cayman completed a Canine Good Citizen test today and was awarded certification. He is now CGC Certified!!!!!! I am eager to get my certificate and have it framed to add to his awards. I might even go a step up and order the rosette/ribbon too!

Other than that, the training has been less intense as has the therapy visits. I am enrolling in school myself-I registered at Edison State College to go for an Associates in Business Management so if it had to come between education for myself to advance in my career or continuing education for my dog; sorry but momma's got put food on the table so that means I come first in schooling.

I do continue to want to work with him to pursue Rally and furthering his obedience training but for now, Cayman is just another fur-baby, content in being loved and adored my his family. So those that have been missing hearing about him, hopefully I can be a better blogger and keep his site current. So that's that! We're happy to be back in the blog-o-sphere!

2009-01-04T07:26:00.002-05:00

Thanks to all that sent e-cards and holiday greeting cards for this years DWB Card exchange. I suppose I was not prepared for the overwelming number to hit my email and mail box! It would take hours to post everyone I received! So one great big thank you to everyone, posted and unposted, that particated!

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

Wow, They Start to Pile Up Don't They?!

2008-12-18T06:07:00.009-05:00

The cards and e-cards continue....

Thanks to the following:

Asta from NY of http://astasworld.blogspot.com sent this one:
Kismet the dachshund of www.kismetbarks.com sent an animated video you can see by clicking here

George of MI at http://puddinpup.blogspot.com sent this:
Jack and Abby of Washington at http://abbyandjack.blogspot.com sent this one:
Quincy of Canada at http://betapuppy.blogpsot.com sent this:
Kingsley and Robin from the Netherlands of www.kingsleydog.com sent this one:
And another dachshund, Ruby the mini dachshund in Canada of www.agenuineruby.blogspot.com sent this:
Bailey, Baxter, Brody, and Benson of WA sent a really cute animated e-card that you can see by clicking here

And those are just the more recent e-cards! I still got a bunch of snail-mail greetings too from:

Murphey and Reilly of TX at http://thelifeofmurphey.blogspot.com

Ong Bee Bee of Singapore at http://iluvbeebee.blogspot.com

Mango, Ximui and Chubs of TX at http://mangothemaltesekiddo.blogpsot.com

Arabella of MN at www.arabellathedog.wordpress.com

and from Sophie, Dixie, and Harley of IN at http://pugandbugg.blogspot.com

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!

A Very Full Email Box

2008-12-13T08:08:00.004-05:00

Just when I thought I cleared out my mailbox of all the wonderful snail mail holiday cards, I found my email box was just as full!

Thanks go to:

Comet and BLU of AZ at http://spitzwits.blogspot.com

Noah, Willow, Tess, and Lucy from Australia at http://leuradales.blogspot.com
And Dobby of NC sent us one. You can visit him at http://ChihuahuaPost.blogspot.com
And one from Fred of TX at http://bichonking.blogspot.com
And a very interesting one from the Phillippines from Sweepy and friends of http://sweepyinheaven.blogspot.com

A Christmas Story by Sweepy

Once upon a Time . . . in a land, far far away . . . lived two Hounds

who met on the night of the full moon and vowed their undying love to each other . . .

They were inseparable and lived quietly and contentedly together. . .

In a short time, the female hound found herself pregnant and her mate became protective of her . . .

However, they lived in a land ruled by people. And the ruler of this land is a cruel King who hates animals.

The King saw a lot of dogs running around the land so the King gave an order for all puppies to be killed,

and for all dogs NOT to mate so there won’t be any more puppies!

“Ha! That should STOP the spread of their kind!” the King laughed.

The poor dogs cried and quietly slipped out of this land before they can be found

and wandered on a moonless night out in the wild. . . . .

The Hounds joined the wild exodus to escape and deliver their first puppy in an unknown and possibly dangerous land.

In the wild, the Hounds were met by many animals like them who have escaped the wrath of the King.

There was a big exodus of animals and there was no place for the Hounds in the noisy and unfamiliar wilderness.

But the female Hound was about to give birth so the male Hound looked to the skies in prayer and found a Star!

The Star seemed to speak to the male Hound and guided their path to an old house where a Lady met them

and gave them shelter. Seeing that the female Hound was pregnant, the Lady made a comfortable bed

for the Hounds in her small house and like the male Hound looked to the sky for prayers.

Hearing the prayers from the land below, the lone Star in the sky became bright and its light focused

on the female Hound who gave birth to a single puppy!

The light helped the female Hound to have a painless delivery! It also helped the Lady eased her lonely heart.

And the Star remained in the sky lighting up the old house and warmed the hearts of the Hounds

and the Lady who decided to adopt each other and they became a family!

And on that special night in December, as the winds howled, and the birds chirped happily, a bright lone Star

twinkled merrily as it witnessed the loving bond that surrounded a Hounds family once upon a time . . .!!!!

Epilogue: I must tell you my dearest friends that this could be a real story.

I knew that the puppy later grew up as a SuperDog ;-)

who barked loudly at clueless and cruel peeps irregardless if they are Kings!

I also knew that this story exists to the present in several lands

and quiet homes lighted by the DWB Star and kind Keepers.

. . . And with that, we wish you and your family good health, warm hugs and kisses, yummy treats,

exciting play and adventures and may you have plenty of Love in this Holiday Season!!!

www.akosisumo.blogspot.com www.bogartinheaven.blogspot.com www.sweepyinheaven.blogspot.com

A Very Full Mailbox

2008-12-13T07:45:00.002-05:00

Whew! I have been so busy putting up our Christmas tree, working, taking care of my family and pets, getting some Christmas shopping done, and reading up on therapy dog work that I haven't had a moment to post all the wonderful DWB Holiday cards I have received lately!

So....here we go!

A gorgeous handmade card came from Lenny of IN at http://wirewise.blogspot.com

And one from Tippy the dachshund of IN as well at http://lifeaccordingtotippy.blogspot.com

Then there is one from The Zoo Crew of NM at http://zoocrew5.blogspot.com

And a very pretty one from a golden retriever named Charlie from OR of http://charliegolden.blogspot.com

Then from all the way from Australia from Opy and Charlie of http://originalgruffpuppy.blogspot.com

And one of my favorites was a handmade card from Shelly and Tommy of SC of http://www.mydogshavefleas.com/fleasblog

Then there is one from Keeley of WI of http://keeleypup.blogspot.com

And Mango and Dexter sent us one from MA of http://mangosgreatadventures.blogspot.com

And last but not least, one from Deefor and Arrow of CO at http://deefor-denverdog.blogspot.com

THANKS everyone! Sorry it took so long to post them!

An Award from I-Love-Dogs.com

2008-12-07T09:23:00.001-05:00

I-Love-Dogs.com

proudly awards this dog
site!

Sweet!

E-cards Galore!

2008-12-07T09:05:00.006-05:00

E-cards Galore!

Here is one from a very pretty dachshund, Mona, from TX. Her blog is: http://justustexasdachsies.blogspot.com
And Hercules from KS at http://keepyourtogaon.blogspot.com sent us this one:
Then there is this one from Beckett from AL of http://adognamedbeckett.blogspot.com :And all the way from Malaysia is this e-card from Ben and Twinkle of www.colliebenjamin.blogspot.com Thanks to all of you as well! :)

2008-12-07T08:49:00.003-05:00

I have been so busy preparing for our first therapy visit with Cayman that I had quite a few snail-mail card thank-yous to issue from the past couple days!

I got one from River the beagle in GA. I wasn't able to find him on the participant list but after reviewing the Dogs With Blogs site, I think I found his blog:
http://www.riverthebeagle.blogspot.com

Rusty from TX also sent a snail-mail card wishing us a 'Pawsome New Year'! There blog can be found at:
http://chasingsquirrelswithrusty.wordpress.com

Kirby the airedale from IL sent a beautiful card of Kirby in the snow. Check out this cutie at: http://kirbytheairedale.blogpsot.com

And a rather large card from a rather large Randi, the lab/newfoundland mix from CA arrived as well. His blog is:
http://randithelabnewf.blogspot.com

Thanks all! I love the cards!

Cayman's First Therapy Dog Visit

2008-12-07T07:56:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was Cayman's first therapy dog visit at Hidden Oaks. When we got there, we were greeted by our group's leader and I was given my new PAWS Ministry tee shirt that I will be wearing at every visit. We hung out in the front waiting for the others and when everyone arrived, we all introduced ourselves and of course, our dogs. Cayman instantly made friends with a cairn terrier named Taco. Taco is only two months older than Cayman so they were both filled with the same puppy energy. After that we all said a prayer and entered the building.

When you first walk in, you enter a large semi-formal looking living area. Seated on the sofas were some of the residents. Next to the sofas, there was about three residents in wheelchairs. Each of the PAWS Ministry members walked there dogs around the living area, stopping at each resident and letting them stroke the dog while the handler introduced them. Some of the residents were very quiet and just pet the dogs gently while others went on and on about how beautiful they all were. Cayman, who must have been feeling a bit overwhelmed, sat in a corner observing all that was going on around us. Our leader said this was okay since it was, after all, his first visit. After a few minutes he must have decided that getting attention was better than watching all the others get it, so he got up and let me lead him around the residents as well.

One very boisterous woman kept shouting "God Bless You! They are all so beautiful!" over and over as she shuffled from dog to dog. Cayman, by this time, had laid down, probably worn out from his tumbling with Taco. The boisterous woman had made her way over to where we were and peered down at Cayman and laughed "Look at the dopey kid!". I kinda felt embarrassed since she was calling my dog "dopey" like he was stupid or something but quickly laughed it off. He did look silly all passed out on the floor!

After visiting in the common room, we started down the halls of the resident's bedrooms. The PAWS Ministry had taken photos with the patients, with permission, prior to this visit and were handing them out with holiday greeting cards. Our leader, armed with the cards, begun knocking on the resident's bedroom doors and when they answered, they were given their cards and a visit from one of the therapy dogs, if they wanted.

I had heard that many times, the therapy dog chooses the patient that they instinctively know needs them the most and some will paw at their closed door or pull their handler into that particular patients room. I think Cayman did this! As we were walking past some rooms, Cayman pulled me into a dim-lit room where one woman was sitting in a wheelchair and another was sitting in a recliner, her hands on either side of her face. Cayman visited with the woman in the wheelchair first. She exclaimed how soft he was and how beautiful he was and asked me if he was a boy or girl and what his name was. We chatted briefly while she petting him and then one of the experienced PAWS Ministry members that I had been paired with appeared in the door. I told her that Cayman wanted to visit here when she laughed and said "I wondered where you two went".

As the woman in the wheelchair begun petting her dog, a chihuahua/Jack Russell terrier mix dressed in a Santa costume; I walked Cayman over to the woman in the chair. She still had her hands at her face and said "I don't like dogs. I got bitten by one." I had read that this was common so I cheerfully said, "Oh that's alright, I'll stand over here then so you can still look at him." I stood a short distance away from her as I also read that many times people will change their minds when they see how friendly the dogs are or see how the other residents are with them, like dogs and kids, they don't want to be left out of the fun. So I stood close enough that if she changed her mind, I was still close enough to go back to her chair with Cayman.

After our visit there, we joined the rest of the group in the Alzehemiers unit. This was a seperate living area closed off my door with key code combination locks on them to prevent the residents from leaving that area. We joined the group in another living area, this one had more sofas and chairs and a TV and a Christmas tree. There was an obvious difference from the residence in the nursing home area and here in the Alzehimers unit. The residences here were muttering to themselves, slumped over in their chairs sleeping,or staring off at nothing. These were the residences that the PAWS members had to lift there hands up and place them on the dogs for them to snap back into reality and begin petting the dogs and talking. I chose to sit next to an African American woman with a very pretty kiwi green bathroom on.

I introduced myself and Cayman and she begun petting him. Her name was Wilma. She told me how much she loved animals, especcially horses. She told me a story of when she was little how her daddy's horse had a colt and he let her and her brothers and sister raise that little colt they named Pat since he was born on St Patricks Day. She went on to tell me how smart he was and how she used to love riding. You could see her eyes light up in the memory of that horse, maybe is one of the few clear memories of her childhood she still had. Her mood changed when she said how she isn't as active as she used to be. She said "My mind is still sharp, I used to be a really active lady. But there is nothing to do here. Nothing to do but cry."

I really didn't know what to say at this. "Well, that's why we come here. I visit you all." She smiled and patted Cayman and said "There is only one thing wrong with your visits..." I was afraid of what she might say. "They are never enough. Two times a day would still not be enough." I knew what she meant. PAWS Ministry typically visits the first Saturday of the month only although they have mentioned that with approval from the center's coordinator, we could make more frequent trips if we wanted to. What was even more sad was when she went on to tell me how she used to play the piano and her church's organ every Sunday, but like so many things- if you don't use it, you lose it. She had forgotten how to play. I decided if I ever got a chance to adopt a resident, I would have to pick Wilma and get her one of those little battery operated keyboards. I think she would have liked that.

We actually went over our scheduled time for our visitation, all of us were so involved with the residences. It was truly a wonderful experience. My team leader said Cayman did really well and I was very grateful that this group existed and was able to accept Cayman as a therapy dog, even at his young age. I really look forward to our next visit which will be the first Saturday in January. From what I understand, new members are required to participate in two group visits, this being the first, so the leaders can evaluate how the handler/dog duo works with the residents. After that we are free to make as many visits as we would like. I know I will definitely try to come on some Sundays as well and stop in to see Wilma.

More Cards! A Bunch More

2008-12-05T06:52:00.002-05:00

Three snail-mail cards yesterday!
One from Maggie, Marshall, and Opal all posed with Santa himself! They are from AL and their blog address is http://puppiesonhoadley.blogspot.com

And a gorgeous one from Niamh that lives in NC and has a blog at http://settertails.blogspot.com

And we can't forget the card from Callie, Beethoven, and Joe- ho,ho,ho! They are from TX. I have looked over and over the DWB Holiday Card Exchange list and can't seem to find them to thank them! So Mr Robinson and your beautiful bunch, if you are reading this- thanks!

A bunch of e-cards came in too but I am off to work so I will post them tonight. Thanks guys for the cards- we love them!

Homemade Fleece Toys for Dogs

2008-12-05T06:50:00.000-05:00

I found this fun craft idea online, just in time for the holidays.

This fleece pom-pom makes a perfect toy for your pet dog or cat and cost a lot less than similar items sold in stores. Cut your cardboard to a large size for larger pom-poms. I would love to make one of these for each of my pets!

First, start out by gathering these supplies.

Piece of Cardboard, cut to approx. 3" x 6"
Fleece, less than an 1/8 of a yard (can use scraps)
Scissors

Fold your fleece in half a few times so you can cut strips out of several layers at once. Cut 3 to 6 strips, about 1/2 - 1 inch wide, they do not have to be perfect! The fleece I buy is 60 inches wide so I fold it in half twice so that I am cutting through 4 layers to make one strips that measures approximately 1-inch by 60-inches. For a fuller look to the ball, use as many as 6 strips (60-inch length), for a floppier ball you can use as few as 3! If you have scraps, feel free to use them up!

Start loosly wrapping your pieces of fleece around the 3-inch width of the cardboard. Do not pull too tight on the pieces of fleece or they will stretch out of shape! Start wrapping the second strip of fleece about where the first ends. This does not have to be exact or perfect! Just wrap away, leaving about an inch of cardboard showing on each side.

Once all your fleece is wrapped, gently slide it off the cardboard and set it on your work surface. Cut a piece of fleece, about 1-inch wide and 6 inches long. Pull on both ends of this piece of fleece to stretch it as far as it will go without breaking. Gently slide this under fleece, centering it between the loops on both ends, and tie it as tight as you can. Trim the ends of the tied fleece strip.

Now take your scissors and poke the end through the loops and cut! Cut through all the loops on both sides and fluff out your ball. Trim as desired. You can trim it down to be a denser, smaller ball or leave it larger.

Experiment and see what you like best! Use up your scraps and you can even mix and match colors. Try making thick balls using 6 strips or floppier balls using as few as 3 strips. You can even stretch your pieces of fleece before you wrap them on the cardboard and see what you end up with!

Puzzles for Dogs Provide Intellectual Stimulation For Dogs of All Ages

2008-12-05T06:49:00.000-05:00

I was reading this month's The Whole Dog Journal-a monthly guide to natural dog care and training- when I came across an article about canine "cognitive dysfunction syndrome" or CDS which is a lot like dog Alzheimer's. The article suggested to provide plenty of environmental stimulation and had a picture of a dog with the Dog Smart puzzle shown below. Puzzles for dogs? I have seen those stuffed trees that comes with three stuffed squirrels that fit inside that the dog can take out but this was more complex. I had to Google the puzzle since the description only stated that it was a "Pawslicker" puzzle. I came to find out that Pawslicker is a bakery and boutique in NY that sells these puzzles, gourmet treats, Eco-friendly products and more. The puzzles are pricey, ranging about $50 a puzzle, but so neat I had to post them. Hmmm....makes you wanna take up a woodworking class all of a sudden, doesn't it?! I would love to hear creative homemade versions of these basic ideas!

The Dog Box is a great new puzzle from Nina Ottosson Games which develops your dog’s intelligence and rewards their problem solving skills with treats. The dog learns to pick up blocks and insert them into the top of the box. Each time he succeeds a treat is discharged from box. The Dog Box is supplied with three different lid configurations to control the level of difficulty.

The Dog Brick is a clever and inventive puzzle from Nina Ottosson Games that lets you hide your treats in recesses located under a series of interlocking sliding blocks. Since the blocks can not be removed, your dog is required to locate the treats by sliding the blocks with either his paw or his nose in order to retrieve his reward.

The Dog Fighter is a challenging new puzzle from Nina Ottosson Games which is sure to make your dog think. Treats are placed under the wooden blocks, which he or she must slide through a channel to be able to remove. This puzzle can be made more difficult with the addition of two larger pegs used to block the channels

The Dog Smart from Nina Ottosson Games is designed for both small and large breeds. Hide a few treats in the recesses which are covered by hollow blocks and watch as your dog tries to locate the hidden treat by sense of smell. Since the blocks can not be knocked over, your dog must lift the block with its teeth in order to retrieve the treat. Sure bets the ol' treat under the paper cup game!

These are just a few of the super cool, very unique dog toys available at http://www.pawlickers.com

Apparently http://www.petpdc.com/about-pet-pdc will be carrying these Nina Ottosson intellectual toys for dogs too.

I found them on http://www.cleanrun.com as well as several other sites. They seem to be pretty big internationally, especially Switzerland.

You can read more about Nina Ottosson's products and company on her site http://www.nina-ottosson.com/index_english.htm.

Even More E-cards!

2008-12-04T05:46:00.003-05:00

More e-cards have arrived! This one is from Eduardo from GA. His blog is http://eduardothesnugglepuggle.blogspot.com. Click the link below to see his e-card, complete with music!

http://smilebox.com/playEmail/4e5463794f446b794e3377784d5449314e6a41784d413d3d0d0a&s=1

And another from King King, all the way from Singapore. You can visit him on http://almightykingking.blogspot.com And there was a snail-mail greeting card from Mexico, thanks to the beautiful Lorenza. She can be visited on http://eldiariodelorenza.blogspot.com

Better Stroller

2008-12-04T05:43:00.001-05:00

I found a pet stroller I like better than the last one I posted. Its the Happy Trails Pet Stroller and its only $6 more than the Ultralight but it holds 10 more pounds (30 pounds total, where as Cayman and my poodle Zoey combined weigh about 24 pounds so I could use it for both of them outside of the therapy visits) and has a cup holder and tray for my things. It's a darker blue than the other one- I like the color of the Ultralight better but I like the features of the Happy Trails much better. Only $79.99 which includes free shipping! Pretty awesome!

http://justpetstrollers.com/happy_trails_pet_stroller.html

Whew!

2008-12-03T06:11:00.003-05:00

As usual, I tend to worry when its usually nothing. Cayman if fine. Still his bouncy self. Thanks to those that showed concern! :)

Poor Little Man

2008-12-02T20:53:00.002-05:00

I am a little worried about Cayman. He had diarrhea under our coffee table which is unusual for him since he rarely has accidents in the house anymore. No one can figure out what could have cause it. I asked everyone to see if they fed him something he isn't used to but no one claims to have given him people food. And I haven't given him any treats today so it couldn't be from that. I did add some safflower oil supplement to his food this morning but that was, like, 6:30 this morning and the poop episode just happened around 8:45 this evening. Please keep him in your thoughts that it isn't anything serious. When ever any of my animals get sick I worry since having lost my dachshund, Raider, over six years ago, after he got into the trash outside and ate something that killed him the next day. The vet thought it was rotted meat or something. Anyhow, I always fear the worse. Please pray that its nothing more than a slight digestive upset!

Even More E-cards!

2008-12-02T20:52:00.002-05:00

More e-cards came today, hurray!

First we have Pacco from Malaysia (Malaysia is pretty popular isn't it?) His weblog is http://pacco.blogspot.com

Then there was a nice card from Poppy, Penny, and Patches of GA. They are from http://airedaleheaven.blogspot.com.

Hmm...so which beautiful airedale is the model on this card?

And lastly, one from Lucky and Roxy Dragon Pebbles of NH. Their weblog can be found at http://thedevildog.blogspot.com.

Let Them Keep Coming!

2008-12-02T05:30:00.001-05:00

Yawn. Its an early morning for me. I suppose Cayman just couldn't wait to get some cuddles in. Well, one of the first things I do is check my email and I was pleased to see that another e-card slipped into my inbox while I was asleep. What a nice thing to wake up to!

Kess and her Mama are from Malaysia and have their own blog at http://itsadoggieslife.blogspot.com. Thanks Kess! The e-card is adorable!

This exchange has been so fun I have posted a bullentin about it on Cayman's Myspace to get those friends involved! Not that it's any more interesting than this blog but if you wanna check it out, his Myspace URL is http://www.myspace.com/doxidoggybloggy

Cayman the Mighty Hunter

2008-12-01T18:53:00.000-05:00

Cayman is a bully- or at least my mom thinks so. Why? That's what I asked her myself. Well....because there was a box turtle or tortoise or whatever it was, in the yard, all tucked up in its shell because Cayman was barking, barking, barking at it and standing on it (it was really big I guess) and trying to dig the creature out thru the top of it's shell. Huh. Cayman is a mighty hunter today. When I got home from work he had removed all the stuffing from a stuffed squeaky bone. This is the first in which he has done this. Ah yes, Cayman...the mighty hunter.

Thanks Augie Ray!

2008-12-01T18:11:00.000-05:00

So as you may already know from a previous post, I am wishing for a pet stroller to assist me with Cayman when we are visiting the nursing home doing animal assisted therapy. A wonderful gentleman read my post and pointed me in the direction of his site that sells them for less then the site I had originally seen them. He has the same pet stroller (Pet Gear Ultralight) available for $73.99 ( which is including free shipping in Continential U.S!!!) at JustPetStrollers.com: http://justpetstrollers.com/pet_gear_ultralight_pet_stroller.html

So there you go, Hubby, if you are reading this.... LOL!

Thanks Augie Ray! (Be sure to click on his name to go to his blog which is dedicated to providing tips and information to pet lovers about Pet Strollers.)

Whoo Hoo, Look How Many Cards Came Today!

2008-12-01T17:49:00.000-05:00

Whoo hoo! The DWB Holiday cards, and e-cards, are really starting to come in!

There was a very beautiful card from JB, Misty, PooPoo, and Bear from TX. Our first card from cats! They can be visited at http://jbssmallworld.blogspot.com. Thanks guys!!!

A postcard came all the way from Switzerland from Faya and Dyos, the Airedales of http://faya-airedale.blogspot.com. Many thanks to you two as well!

And a rather humorous, and very adorable card came from Addie and Zoe from TX. They even signed it themselves! On Comet, On Cupid....umm....never mind. On to Addie's blog at http://raisingaddie.blogpsot.com. Thanks!

And last but not least, an e-card from Charlie Daniels from down-under. Australia!
You can check them out at http://guv.id.au/adognamedcharlie.

Thanks again everyone! I love them all!

Another DWB E-Card Came Today!

2008-11-30T14:55:00.000-05:00

Another wonderful e-card came today from Grumpy Bobby from the UK:

http://johnspaws.blogspot.com

Pet Strollers- My Opinion Has Changed

2008-11-30T10:15:00.000-05:00

Until I got Cayman and decided to work with him to become a therapy dog, I used to laugh at dog strollers. "How ridiculous! Dogs should on the end of a leash, not confined inside a stroller." I used to think the only people who bought these were crazy woman who literally thought their dogs as their babies or those who's dogs were so old and lame, they felt bad and had to get them out for fresh air. I never thought just how wonderful, and completely sane, these pet strollers were- especially for therapy work.

Cayman is a small dog and most small dogs are lifted up onto patients' beds and laps while they are seated in their wheelchairs. Being a dachshund, I am always looking out for his back, since dachshund can injure those long spines of theirs easily. A pet stroller would give him that extra height to be pushed right up to wheelchairs! No lifting or worrying that he would hurt himself- or the patient (he could scratch their frail skin)- if he decided to jump down!

Also, dogs in strollers are permitted in more places that would otherwise not allow dogs. Most businesses see the strollers and don't think any differently than if it was an infant in there. This would be good for further socializing Cayman and getting him used to the different sights and sounds of unusual places. Some people even use them to trips to the vet rather than carriers.

So I have changed my whole option on pet strollers and even put this particular one on my wish list (hint, hint Hubby!). Its my favorite color- and Cayman's signature color as well- and has a roomy basket underneath which is good for any shopping items or my purse. Its the PetGear Ultralight Pet Stroller. And its pretty affordable compared to other pet strollers I have been looking at-only $84.99 on http://www.strollersforpets.com (with shipping and handling, it would be $91.36; most other strollers are over $175).

The new Pet Gear Ultralight pet stroller is an economical way to combine style and convenience. The blue ice color looks great and catches eyes as you stroll your pet. A zippered front entry provides easy access to the interior of the stroller. Front wheel suspension provides a smooth ride. Front mesh provides your pet with air and a wide range of view while strolling. A large undercarriage storage basket provides you with a convenient way to carry all of your pet's goodies, such as toys, treats and water. Rear brakes make the ultralight pet stroller safe and secure for your small dog or cat. The stroller collapses in seconds for quick and easy storage. Purchase a Pet Gear Ultralight Pet Stroller today and find out what everyone's talking about. Holds pets up to 20 lbs. Minor assembly required.

Pet Stroller Features

Stroller Folds Easily in Seconds and Stores Flat--Just 8" High!
Durable, Breathable & Bug-Proof Mesh Provides Airflow and Visibility
5.5" Wheels with Front Shock Absorbers and Rear Locking Brakes to Keep Pet Safe
Large Underside Storage Basket for Pet Toys, Treats, Water Bottles, etc...
600 Denier Waterproof Material
No Parent Tray Included with this Stroller
Holds Dogs or Cats up to 20 lbs.
Removable Waterproof Liner
Light Blue Color
Very Little Assembly Required
Enclosed Compartment is 21" L, 11" W, 16" H
Folded Dimensions: 30" L x 16.5" W x 8" H
Weight: 10.6 lbs.
Ground-to-Handle Height: 37 3/4"

Strollers: for dogs on the go: this mode of pet transportation is gaining popularity because it helps both animals and people in important ways. Here's how

Joan Hustace Walker

You may have seen one on the streets: a screened-in, somewhat elongated baby stroller that's not for babies--well, at least not for human babies. What is it? Only the hottest-selling doggie accoutrement around--a dog stroller.

"Three years ago, we went to a [pet product] trade show, and a manufacturer had one style of dog stroller that came in two sizes," explains Augie Ray, owner of Metropawlis, an "urban pet boutique" in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. "We purchased a [pet] stroller more as a 'talk about' item--something that was unique and different--for our store." But store patrons did more than just talk about the novelty item; they snapped them right up.

Now pet strollers--made by many different manufacturers--are rolling out of the boutique so quickly that Ray has developed an online site devoted entirely to their purchase: www.justpetstrollers.com.

Taking the Dog for ... A Roll?

But who is buying these contraptions? And how are they being used? You might be amazed. Seniors, 20-somethings and everyone in between are buying pet strollers for a variety of reasons.

Big Walk, Little Dog "A lot of little dogs can't make long walks," explains Jennifer Hovey, owner of The Pampered Pup in West Palm Beach, Florida. Many retirees in Hovey's area, for example, walk four or five miles every day--way too far for some of the little dogs. With the stroller, "an owner can walk the dog on a leash," says Hovey, "and when the dog has had enough, it can ride in the stroller for the rest of the walk."

Shopping without the "Weight"

The stroller also comes in handy for shopping in outdoor malls or dining al fresco, says Hovey, and is not nearly as cumbersome to carry as an over-the-shoulder bag. "An eight-pound dog gets heavy after a while," she notes, and if an owner is a bit frail, even a two-pound dog can be a chore to shoulder on outings.

Don't Tread on Me Pet owners who enjoy attending outdoor festivals or other people-packed events often choose to use pet strollers, says Ray. The stroller allows the owners to attend events with their dogs--without the worries that their dogs will get stepped on, eat something unsavory or become injured. Likewise, city dwellers who have to navigate crowded sidewalks and fast-moving traffic with their dogs regard the pet stroller as a safe way to transport them to and from shopping areas, dog parks, etc. without risking injury to the dog.

Senior Dogs Like little dogs, sometimes senior dogs just can't go the distance with their owners. A pet stroller allows the less mobile dog to walk as far as it can and, with a hop into the stroller, continue to receive the mental and physical stimulation of being outside with its owner. Strollers can also be helpful to dogs of any age that are suffering from injuries or recovering from surgeries.

New Levels of Therapy Therapy dogs encounter a variety of scenarios in their work, including patients in wheelchairs and beds. If the therapy dog is small, a dog stroller can be a safe and effective way to allow more comfortable patient interaction with the dog.

Shields Up! Pet strollers can also serve as a buffer between an incredibly cute dog and its adoring public. "Although it is flattering for people to want to love on your dog," says Katy Dicroce of West Palm Beach, Florida, who owns seven Chihuahuas, "there are times you just can't get anything done because everyone is always wanting to pet them." Dicroce uses her stroller to take her dogs to the mall, to dinner and for walks around her neighborhood--in peace.

Look At Me Of course, a downside to the pet stroller is its very novelty can attract attention. "This may not be the product for someone who wants to be left alone," laughs Ray. "If you want to be noticed, you will be noticed with a pet stroller."

Ready to Buy?

Pet strollers come in several sizes to accommodate weights ranging from 20 pounds up to 150 pounds. (More than one dog can ride in larger models.) Prices range from $80 to $450, depending on the size, features (yes, they do come with cupholders), quality of materials and capacity.

The most common reason why pet strollers are returned is not because the dog didn't like the stroller, shares Ray, but rather because the owner underestimated how much room the pet would need to be comfortable.

Before you commit to purchasing one, Ray advises that you "look at the dimensions of the stroller, sketch out [the carrying area] and see how your pet fits." And, if possible, take the stroller out for a test roll. You and your dog might really like the ride!

More DWB Holiday Cards!

2008-11-29T18:11:00.000-05:00

Another beautiful snail-mail DWB Holiday card came today from Moco, Foley, and Dawson from Oregon, sending Cayman "holiday hugs". Their blog address is http://grammiesk9s.blogspot.com. Thanks cuties!

And one from Joey and Tanner, the handsome Boston Terriers from Arizona. They too have a blog at http://joestains.blogspot.com. Thanks to you as well! Our holidays will be merry and bright because we have online bloggin' buddies like you!

Christmas Shopping Begins and Bolt the Movie

2008-11-28T16:41:00.000-05:00

This is the first year I have specifically requested to have Black Friday off. Not that I have tons of shopping to do, but wanted to experience some of the "one day only" sales. My husband took the day off too and after buying for our human child, we purchased some goodies for our furry ones. This included a brand new stocking for Cayman, Zoey-our toy poodle, and Sterling- our cat. They are too freaking cute! I have been looking for cute stockings for Zoey and Sterling for a while and this is Cayman's first Christmas so he needed one anyhow. The red ones are for dogs and the green ones are for cats. They even have a hanging photo frame for a picture of the pet with "naughty" on one side and "nice" on the other.
While out shopping, we stopped into Borders where I found an awesome organic dog treat cookbook that is on my Christmas list! Its 225 pages of over 100 organic and all natural dog treat recipes that are free from corn, wheat, and soy- something I try to avoid in everything I buy the dogs if I can help it. Its called "The Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook". Pretty straight forward, huh? Its hardbound and vintage looking which I love also. Here's the description of the book on Amazon.com : "When it comes to dog biscuits, there's a lot out there, but not one as concerned with your pets health and happiness as ours! While most of the competition goes for novelty, the Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook stands alone in featuring tail-waggingly tasty 100% organic ingredients. Written by an expert who runs the Bubba Rose Biscuit Company, it contains more than 100 all-natural recipes double what most other dog cookbooks have. That s sure to appeal to owners eager to feed their dog homemade after the recent commercial pet food scare. The wholesome doggie dishes (all tried, true and taste tested) include a Luck of the Irish Wolfhound dog treat with such ingredients as oat flour and spinach leaves, and a beef-based Grillin and Chillin hot dog!" Then all I need is a few cute doggy-shaped cookie cutters in my stocking and I am all set to make my own dog treats.

Speaking of dog treats..........

We went to Dipidy Dawg which is a gourmet dog bakery. My husband- who is turning more and more into the dog spoiling sucker I have always been- got two Fido's Footballs which are molasses flavored football shaped cookies with yogurt piping to look like the football laces, and a bag of 'Temptations' for each of the dogs, which are like mini bone shaped candies for dogs. Zoey, being a white poodle, got a bag of the white yogurt flavored and Cayman, being golden colored, got the peanut butter flavored. They are all organic and are made with yogurt or peanut butter, palm kernel oil and lecithin. We will be putting the 'Temptations' in each of their stockings; the footballs were to enjoy now, just because they are so wonderful.
You can actually order the cookies by visiting their website:
http://www.dipidydawg.com/home.php

We finished our day by going to the theater to see Disney Pixar's "Bolt" which is HILARIOUS and a real tear jerker all in one. Anyone who loves dogs and Disney HAS to see this movie. I like comedies but I have yet to find a movie that has made me laugh as hard as this one did. The hamster, Rhino, is the best character ever. Hubby had to whisper to me "don't forget to breathe!" because I was laughing so hard in some of the scenes! And I was right, Bolt is suppose to be a white Shepherd. So there Hubby!

Keep Your Dog Safe This Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T06:10:00.000-05:00

Okay, before you stuff yourself stupid, make sure you are taking every precaution to keep your dogs, and other pets, safe this Thanksgiving.

Thankgiving Safety for Dogs:
Stuff the turkey, not your dog
by Nikita

Ahhh, the aroma of a fresh, mouthwatering, roasting turkey in the oven, Mom's cornbread stuffing cooling on the counter, sweet, spicy pumpkin pie tempting your passions. But don't forget the happy, little furry-feet, following your every move!

Yep, its Thanksgiving! A time to be thankful for all we have, for those around us we love, including our canine friends. Many people share the family feast with their dog in an offering of thanks and love. While this is an innocent and seemingly gracious and loving gesture, the truth is, it's more loving not to share your holiday meals with your dog. While it may seem that a little bit of turkey skin here and a little bit of stuffing there wouldn't hurt, we know how quickly the pounds can add up over the holiday season. The same rules that apply to us apply to our pets. A diet high in fat and being overweight is very unhealthy for them.

Pancreatitis is just one of the problems that occur with a high fat and unhealthy diet. The "typical" pancreatitis victim is middle-aged or older and overweight. It's common in both sexes, and very often the family has just had a party or a big holiday meal when this disease strikes. So, if your pet is often one that gets a table scrap here, a potato chip there, extra caution should be taken, as his possibility for an accute pacreatitis attack could already be high. However this doesn't OK you to indulge him if it's "just this once" or "just for the holiday." Things can turn bad quickly and with the hustle and bustle of the holidays; you may not be as alert to the first symptoms, or may pass them off as just nerves, stress or having a little too much turkey or all the family at the home for the holiday.

The pancreas produces digestive enzymes that break down food so the body can digest it. These enzymes are carefully handled by the pancreas in order to prevent them from damaging the pancreas itself or surrounding tissue. If they break down for any reason, the result is leakage of enzymes, which damage the pancreas and any surrounding tissue they reach. This breakdown is called pancreatitis. Symptoms include loss of appetite, severe and frequent vomiting, diarrhea that may contain blood, reluctance to walk, weakness, pain, crying, restlessness, irritability, or refusing to eat. Many people know their dog is sick, but may be confused as to whether or not it's serious because of a lack of symptoms or symptoms being vague and mild.

Pancreatitis may occur only once in a dog's life or it can become chronic, a condition that returns over and over again. It can quickly become fatal or just be a mild attack of pain that is over in a few hours or a day or so. It can cause serious side effects including shock, blood clotting disorders, heart arrythmias, and liver or kidney damage. So if your pet exhibits ANY of these signs, even if mild at first, get him to your vet immediately! Of course with it being a holiday, many animal clinics may be closed - another VERY valid reason to not be so sharing with your pets this Thanksgiving. And just in case, make sure you have an emergency number for your vet or the emergency vet clinic number handy for when your vet's office is closed.

Make sure your pet has no access to any food left on the counters or tables when no one is around. After you're done cleaning up the kitchen, make sure you take the garbage out, and dispose of it in a secure place where no pets can get into it. Even the best behaved, well trained pets may be too tempted with turkey bones, the string that tied the turkey legs together, and what little of what was left of Mom's stuffing in the trash.

Other Holiday Food Dangers

Besides table scraps being dangerous to your pets because of the high-fat in some of them, there are still other reasons to not share your holiday feast with pets. Cooked turkey, duck, geese and other bird bones are dangerous to your pet. They are hollow and break and splinter easily. Also, because they are so easily breakable, dogs usually won't chew them thoroughly. The results are sharp pieces that can choke the dog or block, tear the intestines. A pet that has a bone or fragment of one lodged in his intestine may not even show symptoms for a few days. When they do occur they may include loss of appetite, depression, vomiting, or diarrhea. Sometimes the bone will pass by itself; other times it may need to be surgically removed. So make sure all left overs and throw away and out of your pets' reach.

Chocolate and your dog

Yet another danger to dogs is chocolate. It contains a xanthine compound called theobromine. Theobromine is highest in dark chocolate, but even milk chocolate contains theobromine. Chocolate can be fatal to your dog! Bowls of candy, or pieces dropped by guests or children, may go unnoticed by you for hours, but pose a real risk to your pets.

Bloat is a medical emergency!

One last word of caution on holiday meals and your pet is "bloat." Bloat is a gastric condition that can be deadly and is an EMERGENCY for you and your dog. Bloat is most commonly caused by too much gas or fluid in the stomach. This gas can extend the stomach causing gastric dilation. If the stomach partially rotates it is called gastric torsion. If it fully rotates its called gastric volvolus. Each can be a life threatening problem. Usually, large, deep-chested dogs are the victims, but it has occurred in some smaller breeds and puppies that have been allowed to eat too fast. While the causes of bloat are varied, gulping of food and water, a common behavior at excitable times when yummy treats are given and then exercise, such as the excitability and playfulness a lot of pets experience during busy times like holidays and family gatherings, may be a serious threat to a lot of pets.

Bloat is a deadly condition that gives you a very limited amount of time to act. Symptoms include abdominal distention, salivating, retching, restlessness, depression, lethargy, anorexia, weakness, or a rapid heart rate. Any of these symptoms, even if mild at first, should IMMEDIATELY be attended to by your vet. The stages and manifestations of this condition can happen rapidly once started, so no time should be wasted in seeking advice and care, even if there is a little doubt. Things to avoid are not allowing your pet to overeat, even his own food. Instead of 1 or 2 large meals a day, try 3 or 4 smaller ones. Do not feed your pet at high excitability times, or when he's nervous, such as when you have a house full of company. Many dogs will gulp down their food as a "defense" to keep these "strange intruders" out of it. Calm your dog and feed him at quiet times of the day. Do not allow vigorous exercise before or after your pet has eaten.

Be careful with your pets this holiday season, and be truly thankful for them by keeping them healthy!

The biggest hazards to pets on Thanksgiving include:
-Rich, fatty foods (turkey skins, gravy, etc,) can contribute to pancreatitis. This gland inflammation is painful and can be serious-requiring emergency veterinary assistance. And the herb sage in stuffing can lead to depression of the nervous system and digestive upset.

-Cooked bones can splinter and cause tears or obstruction in a pet’s digestive tract. Brittle, bone splinters pose risk to the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.

-Baking strings, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and wax paper can cause intestinal obstructions and can create trouble if ingested by your pet.

-Onions in holiday stuffing can lead to canine anemia if consumed by your dog.

-The toxins from grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in pets.

-Ingesting chocolate (contains theobromine) can also cause seizures or kill your pet.

-Don’t forget that caffeine and alcohol are also toxic for pets.

More DWB E-Cards Have Arrived!

2008-11-27T05:58:00.000-05:00

Wee! More DWB Holiday e-cards came!

Click here to check out what Luke and Liesel sent from AZ!
Its animated and hilarious! Their blog address is http://andrachoate.blogspot.com

And here is another all the way from Malaysia from Scottie, Kenji and Lady! Its beautiful, as are the dogs in it!
You can visit them at http://nottiescottie.blogspot.com (I love that blog name!)

Pics of My Haircut- Cayman Colored Highlights?

2008-11-26T06:57:00.000-05:00

So the highlights are not exactly the same color as Cayman's fur but we tried and I like the results anyhow!

My First Two Holiday DWB Cards Came!

2008-11-26T06:37:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I got my first two cards from the Dogs With Blogs Holiday Card Exchange! How exciting!

This e-card came from Amber-Mae, Faith and Chloe from http://ambers-diary.blogspot.com
They are from Malaysia! I can't believe how perfect everyone is posed in this picture! They are like the "poster children" for good obedience (and it helps they are dog-gone adorable!)

The second was a snail-mail greeting card from Simba of http://simbas-world.blogspot.com
It came all the way from the United Kingdom! It came with an adorable snapshot of Simba looking dapper in a Santa hat! I will add this to the other snail-mail greeting cards and get a snapshot picture of Cayman with all of them together.

I will be sending mine out after Thanksgiving. Its not too late to send me your email address and blog address if you would like an e-card from Cayman! Just send that info to doxidoggybloggy@gmail.com and I will send you one. This way if you missed out on the DWB Holiday Card exchange participant list, you can still get one. Or if you originally signed up for snail-mail only and decided that you would still like one from Cayman (since I am sending e-cards only in an effort to "go green" this year).

Thanksgiving Turkey Treats

2008-11-25T06:42:00.000-05:00

Face it. You are probably going to have more turkey leftovers than you will know what to do with so why not make something for the pups?

When you can't stand another bite of turkey, you can mix up these turkey dog treats for your canine buddies. They'll love them!

Thanksgiving Turkey Treats

Ingredients:
2 c. cooked turkey, minced
4 tsp. grated lowfat cheese
1 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
2 eggs, beaten
2 c. whole-wheat flour
2 tbsp. brewer's yeast
2 tbsp. safflower oil (or vegetable oil if you don't have safflower)

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix the turkey, cheese and parsley together. Pour beaten eggs over turkey mixture. Add flour, yeast and oil. Stir.

Drop into small lumps onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes or until brown and firm. Store in refrigerator.

Makes about 2 dozen treats.

from www.all-natural-dog-treat.com

Holiday Card Exchange- Wanna Participate?

2008-11-23T19:08:00.000-05:00

As you might already know, Dogs With Blogs is having their 2008 Holiday Card exchange and the final participant list has already been sent out. If you would like to receive an e-card from Cayman this holiday and were not on the list, please send me your email address and blog address. Cayman has a lot of cheer to give and would be happy to send some your way! All we ask in return is you sign our guest book! If you would like to send a e-card in exchange, you can send them to doxidoggybloggy@gmail.com.
All e-cards will be mailed out the beginning of December. :)

Sigh of Relief- My Card is Done

2008-11-22T18:18:00.000-05:00

Ahhh.

Sigh of relief.

I finished my "card" for the Dogs With Blogs Holiday Card exchange. And its sooooo cute! I decided to go electronic this year, and then that way the people who are in this exchange can post it on their blogs if they want. :)

And it saves trees so our dogs can have more of them on the planet to pee on. LOL!

Triple Score!

2008-11-22T16:44:00.000-05:00

I made the liver snacks. They came out PERFECT! I wish I had found this recipe long ago since they are perfect. The only thing I did differently was I added an egg wash to the tops halfway thru baking to give them that professional shiny top. Awesome! And of course, the dogs LOVED them. But I have to say, they STINK. I think I might take the advise of others that have tried this recipe and use meat flavored baby food instead. Its already pureed and I can tolerate the smell. But the dogs do love them, which makes it so worth it. In fact they have been following me around the house, looking at me expectantly, as if I have pocketfuls of them or something! Score!

Today was the Howl-A-Day Jubilee Festival. I got all kinds of all natural, organic, and grain free dog food samples to try, a Petco bandanna for Cayman, and the best part- a free shark cartilage chew that I mentioned on Cayman's Christmas list!! The rep from Canine Caviar was there and she recognized me from the previous Pet Fest last month and I mentioned I was looking for the Fish Stix sting ray tail chews and the shark cartilage chews and if she had any with her to sell. She didn't but gave me one for free! Sweet! I also found a local pet boutique that sold them so after the festival, hubby took me there and I bought one more shark cartilage chew and two of the sting ray tails for Cayman and my toy poodle, Zoey, for Christmas. I am so excited to have found them, its taking everything in my not to give them to the dogs early, LOL! Score number 2!

Oh and my Amazon.com order came today. I purchased the book "Therapy Dogs- Training Your Dog to Reach Others" by Kathy Diamond Davis. I have a funny story about this book. See, I ordered it but forgot to update my address listed with Amazon. So I have been impatiently waiting and waiting for it only to have discover when I checked the tracking information that the book was delivered to my old address. I think the new renters rejected it, marked "return to sender" which completely sent me into a tizzy because I would have to contact the seller, pay shipping all over again, and wait even longer. But to my amaze, it was in my mailbox today with one of those yellow forwarding stickers. Score number 3, this time for me! :) I will let you know how it is, its gotten pretty good reviews on Amazon.

Cayman Turns 7 Months Old

2008-11-20T18:27:00.000-05:00

Cayman is 7 months old!
I am purchasing the ingredients to make those liver snacks this weekend to celebrate, the cake has to wait till he turns a year. I hope he likes them!

Liver Snacks

2008-11-19T18:41:00.000-05:00

I can not wait to try out this recipe!!From the description, they sound like the liver treats my husband treated the pooches to at the Pet Fest from an all natural dog treat bakery. I think I am going to try making them this weekend. Either way, I wanted to post it as soon as possible to see if anyone else has made them or would like to give them a shot. Oh and they are safe for diabetic dogs too. I think I want to try out a different flour since I am trying to stay away from wheat products in my dogs, but for starters I will flow the recipe as it was written.

1/4 c. whole wheat flour
1 eggs
1 lbs beef liver, cut into pieces

1. Preheat over to 350 degrees F. Line a 10x15 in jellyroll pan with parchment paper.
2. Place the liver in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped. If you have room, add the flour and eggs and process until smooth. Otherwise, transfer to a bowl and stir in the flour and eggs using a wooden spoon. Spread evenly in the prepared pan.
3. Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the center is firm. Cool, and cut into squares using a pizza cutter. The treats will have a consistency similar to a sponge. Store in a sealed container in the fridge.

Oh and completely off subject but I am getting my hair cut this Sunday and will be putting highlights the color of Cayman's fur in! How freaking cute would that be?! I hope it comes out the way I want- I will post pics when its done.

Why Dachshunds Are Not Allowed to Bake

2008-11-19T06:04:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was the first day we left all three dogs alone in the house while we went off to work because our water guy was coming to check out pump (we have well water). And before I left I got down on all fours and inspected the house for anything Cayman could possibly get into. He's still a pup and can get into things. All unaccessable rooms were shut off or had baby gates up to prevent unwanted canine visitors. Well, my mom comes home around noon and is able to check on them and at that time all was well. All three dogs are just hanging out, lounging on the sofas.

Then around 5:15 I get home. My younger brother has just gotten in before me and says "Cayman got into something". Instantly I am scanning my brain, trying to think what on earth he could have found, always suspecting the worse. Did he chew up another cord? Did he throw something up? Is he okay? Speaking of, where is he??

"W-what....what was it?" I asked him cautiously while looking around for him. He usually greets me, jumping and stumbling me in an over exuberant fashion.

"Powdered sugar."Anthony tells me.

"WTF? Where on earth did he find powdered sugar?!" I don't wait for a reply because now Cayman is sitting, not jumping on me, at my feet, wagging his tail, looking guilty as all naughty puppies tend to do. I walk into our living room and it looks like a scene from Scarface. There is white powder all over the living room rug. A chewed up confectioners sugar box is on the counter. Anthony, being the typical lazy brother at least managed to take away the surving box of sugar at least.

So we think the scerio probably went along something like this...
Roxy, my parent's beagle mix is on a diet and knows how to open cupboards (she, and not my two year old daughter, is why we have child locks on all the cupboards) and probably nugged the baking cupboard open since boxes of cereal kept it from closing all the way where the child lock would have prevented her being able to open. Not satisfied with boxed of puffed wheat, powdered sugar and all our mixing bowls, Roxy probably lost interest in the open cupboard and went off to go pout. Cayman, who is Roxy's shadow when I am not around to follow, took interest in this newly undiscovered area of the kitchen. He probably grabbed the first thing he could investigate, which was an already opened box of powdered sugar, dragged it to the living room so the chew-fest could begin. After the powdered sugar poured onto the floor, all three dogs begun licking it, which ground the fine powder into the carpet, making it sticky so it would not vacume up at all.

Needless to say, we have to shampoo the carpet now. And Cayman is forbidden to attempt any baking in the living room.

Cayman's 1st Christmas Wish List

2008-11-16T14:25:00.000-05:00

Dear Santa Paws,
I know its a little early to send this to you but it is my first Christmas this year and I am just so excited I just couldn't wait any longer. Mommy says as long as I don't try to eat any of the ornaments (whatever those are, they sound de-lish!) I can say I have been a very, very good boy this year. Mommy says I am the best dog she has ever had, but not to tell Zoey that. She's the toy poodle Mommy had before me. Just please no rawhide. Mommy and Daddy have strick rules about rawhide ever since Zoey choked on a piece of one. She said pressed rawhide is okay though.

Anyways, I would really love to receive:
* a medium sized Nylabone Bar-B-Chew rib chew toy. They are longlasting and are suppose to be BBQ flavored!
* a Skinneeez squirrel (you know, those plush toys without a squeaker or stuffing). They are great for shaking and dragging around the house.
* one of those wild ocean skate tail chews that Mommy saw at the Pet Fest- Canine Caviar sells them under the name "Fish Stix". The exterior of the treat is covered with keratin beads to aid in oral hygiene. The interior is composed of fish cartilage full of chondroitin. Canine Caviar also states that Fish Stix are durable and completely digestible.

*one of those Wild Ocean Thresher Shark Spines, also by Canine Caviar, under the name "Great White Chews". They do the following:

Cleans Teeth & Gums A Healthy Chew your Dog will Love!
Improves Joint Health - rich in chondroitin sulfate. Excellent for dogs of all ages!.
Wild Ribbon Fish – Excellent Source of Omega 3
Anti-Inflammatory

Mommy says these are kinda hard to find but I would love them so much!

Thank you so much!

Tail Wags and Sloppy Kisses,

So what's on your dog's wish list?

Pics in the Backyard

2008-11-16T13:02:00.000-05:00

Bummer.

2008-11-16T11:53:00.000-05:00

Cayman and I were just loading up into the car to head to our orientation when the PAWS Ministry coordinator called me to let me know the church had to be evacuated due to some kind of gas leak so they are having to reschedule. Bummer. I was really looking forward to today. So.... hopefully next Sunday we will have our orientation.

DWB Holiday Card Exchange= More Participants

2008-11-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

I got the revised participant mailing list and we now have 146 participants! I can't wait!

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

2008-11-15T20:47:00.000-05:00

I couldn't help myself. I had to snap these photos of my two sleeping fur-babies. The one above, Cayman almost looks like he was smiling. Maybe he is as happy as I am about tomorrow's orientation for PAWS Ministry therapy work!

PAWS Ministry Gets New Members

2008-11-15T20:25:00.001-05:00

Today was PAWS Ministry's temperament testing. I fortunately already got to test when I showed up on the wrong date last week (still feeling silly about that, by the way) so I was not there to meet some of the other testers. I did, however, receive an email from our coordinator who proudly stated that as of today PAWS Ministry welcomed 34 new members and 28 new pets including 23 dogs, 3 cats , 1 bird, and 1 bunny. So it goes to show you that not only dogs can make a difference in peoples lives!

The new members and their assigned locations are:

CORAL TRACE
Wynne and Nancy Nolan & "Giffer"
Sue and Chase Purdy & "Zoe" & "Zelda"
Adalina Mendez & "Snoopy"
Don Payne & "Brutus"
Dan, Jamie, Ashley and Kaylee Ayers & "Daisy"

CROSS KEY MANOR
Iris, Pete and Sophia & "Happy"
Cathi Petersen & "Mickey"
Marty, Carol and Jarrod & "Sasha"

GULF COAST VILLAGE
Linda Schrodell & "Sadie"
Sandra Broderick & "Harry"
Ann Bachhuber & "Bing"
Courtney, Daniel and Mia Acevedo & "Jack"
Erin Tuthill & "BooBoo"
Majorie Seegmuller & "Olivery"

HIDDEN OAKS
Chris Leetz & "Sasha", "Ruppurt Henry" & "Bootzz"
Brenna Yukins & "Angel"
Karen Reci & "Bella"
Shirley Thompson & "Taco"
Shawna Laufer & "Cayman"<---------------------- that's us!

REHAB & HEALTH
Amber, Karla, and Jason Alden & "Bunny" & "Spike"
Kim Phillips & "Sancho"
Kim and Morgan Stevens & "Penny" & "Lucky"
Bill and Marilyn Earl & "Sandy"

Tomorrow is our mandatory orientation and I can hardly wait to meet the other members and get my new shirt and Cayman's bandanna!

Another Wonderful Therapy Dog Opportunity

2008-11-12T19:50:00.001-05:00

I found another one! This organization is called Paws For Friendship and it is international! And the international headquarters are located in Tampa although they have charters everywhere. They too have been relaxed requirements and let you pick where you would like to volunteer with your certified therapy dog. I decided to inquire about having Cayman visit our local shelter for abused woman and children. I feel they could really benefit from Cayman, especially those that might have had to leave pets behind in extreme cases where their safety came first. The membership is $40 annually and you get your choice of a polo shirt or denim shirt; a sweatshirt; a bandanna for your dog; a service vest; and ID card. And they only require you to make one visit a month. Of course I would want to do more- maybe alternate between PAWS Ministry working with seniors at an assisted living residence and Paws for Friendship working with recovering woman and children on alternating Sundays. Oh that would be such a dream! Please pray for me that this can be the way things work out!!!!

For more info: www.pawsforfriendshipinc.org

Sponge Bob Invades Our Lives

2008-11-11T20:56:00.000-05:00

I hate Sponge Bob. I refuse to let my two year old daughter watch Sponge Bob. When she received a hand-me-down Sponge Bob character stuffed animal, I quickly got rid of it before she could get attached. I hate Sponge Bob. I would never, ever buy anything with Sponge Bob on it. So you can imagine my state of confusion when unloading my Walmart groceries to find a package of two yellow Sponge Bob tennis balls. WTF???Hmm.

My husband, knowing my extreme dislike for Sponge Bob would never have put them in the cart; besides, neither of us plays tennis either. So then the next suspect in the appearance of the Sponge Bob balls is my daughter, Shaylee. She must have put them in the cart while we were not looking, which would be the first for us. Anyhow, I gave them to the dogs figuring they wouldn't care for them and then I wouldn't feel bad about ditching them later. But Shaylee and the dogs must of had a plan. They love these stupid smiley tennis balls! How could I ever get rid of something they love so much? Here is a couple pics taken at different times where Cayman just can't let these tennis balls go, I think they just might be one of his favorite toys now.
I still hate Sponge Bob though, for the record.

DWB Holiday Card Exchange

2008-11-11T18:40:00.000-05:00

I have just received my copy of the 2008 Dogs With Blogs Holiday Card Exchange mailing list. This is gonna be fun!!!

There are 144 participants from all over the world! Most are from the US and there are about 47 international participants from placed like Gibraltar, Australia, United Kingdom, Mexico, Malaysia, Switzerland, Spain, Singapore, Costa Rica, the Philippines, Canada, the Netherlands, Tokyo, England, and Taiwan! Part of the exchange is you have the option pick if you would like to receive snail mail, as in the old fashion card in the mail, or an e-card. Most picked either or, while some picked only snail mail or only e-cards. I personally choose either. I would rather have a traditional holiday card via snail mail but I understand that postage can be expensive, especially if it is international so I will happily take an e-card too!

The coordinator for this fun program suggest having them all mailed out the beginning of December so I better get working on these! I would love to get a picture of Cayman dressed up in his reindeer costume I bought him. How cute would that be?!

I will try to post the e-cards I receive as well as scan any traditional holiday cards that come in the mail to share with you all. What a wonderful way to connect with people you would not otherwise ever get the chance to meet and all who share a common love of dogs with blogs (and kitties and hamsters I am told, LOL) during the best time of year, the howl-a-days! :)

It might not be too late, get on the list too!
http://dogswithblogs.com.au/christmas.htm

The 411 on 42299

2008-11-10T17:55:00.000-05:00

I just received the weirdest phone call ever. I didn't catch the woman's name but she claimed to be from NuVet which, if you have read my previous weblogs, is the best product ever for keeping your pet healthy and live a long life.

Anyhow, she said that she was browsing the web and came across my blog and was very happy to see me promoting the product, blah, blah, blah. She asked if she could make a suggestion and that would be to change the link I have of www.nuvet.com to www.nuvet.com/42299. She said it was because when you clicked on the link I posted it pulled up all my personal information. This raised some suspicion since I know when you get to the site you have to log in with a password. And then the address she rattled off wasn't my address. Upon further search into previous weblogs I found that I had recieved a comment from a groomer named Susan asking me to put those very same numbers at the end of my link!

Hmmm.

So I called Nuvet and they are looking into the matter further. They have the phone number from which she called me on and some additional information. Basically I think it is a scam from a groomer aiming for some kind of personal gain for herself by scaring me into thinking my personal info was at stake. And furthermore it makes Nuvet look bad. I don't mean to trash talk, and honest don't think I am. I am just stating how disappointed how low some people will go, even to lie about who they are. Isn't that against the law or something? Hell, if I really wanted to trash talk I'd put her blog link in here. But I'm not that kinda girl.

So yes, dear readers- you can log into the site at www.nuvet.com. That is the website, any "code" at the end is just for credit for someone else somewhere.

I will say, however, that this does not change how I feel about the product-it's fantastic. And the customer service I received, even for such a strange inquiry, was handles with professionalism and care. I can not say enough good things about Nuvet.

Cayman is a Therapy Dog!!!!

2008-11-09T13:12:00.000-05:00

I am so silly. I tend to get very excited about things and sometimes fail to read into the details. I did that today with the PAWS Ministry Temperament Testing. I got so excited about the opportunity, that I failed to read that it was suppose to be NEXT Sunday, not today. So I drove to Cape Coral to the Grace Church but it was definitely not for nothing! I got to meet with Misti who is the coordinator for the program. She and several other members where there at the church between sermons promoting the organization. Thank goodness someone was there!

She basically did a temperament test with Cayman and the other dogs and the people right then and there. She said he was wonderful and she seen all she needed to see just in the first five minutes! He was friendly and allowed everyone to pet him, was friendly towards the other dogs and got engages with wrestling with a chihuahua/poodle mix puppy so he obviously got along with other dogs. I do have to go back up there next Sunday (the correct date!) for the orientation and to purchase my PAWS Ministry shirt (they are aqua- my favorite color and Cayman's signature color!). I think she said there was about three or so Saturdays where I have to go on a Saturday as part of the group so the evaluators can see him in action. Then from there I can go whenever which will most likely be Sundays. I just to make other arrangements since the time on Saturdays may interfere with my daughter's Kindermusik class.

Since I live in Ft Myers, our facility that uses the PAWS Ministry is the Hidden Oaks Assisted Living and Alzheimer Residence. She explained that whats nice about visiting nursing homes is that unlike hospitals, they don't mind dogs being dogs. They can play with other dogs and bark and howl (as long as its all in fun and not an aggressive bark) and the residences love it. With hospitals you have to be quiet. Cayman is a quiet dog for the most part but its nice to know they are not too stuffy about the dog's behavior.

How exciting, Cayman is a therapy dog!!!!! Since he was such a good boy, Mommy spoiled him with a tasty twisty bullystick! Yum!

Other purchases made today included a new black harness and matching leash since his aqua harness is getting too small. And a black car seat teether to keep him from trying to climb into my lap while driving, especially if we are going to be driving all the way downtown for training and therapy work!

Blog Worth Begging For Award- Did You Get One Yet?

2008-11-07T23:13:00.000-05:00

A lot of other bloggers on here have traded awards with each other for having interesting or creative blogs and I wanted to join in the fun! So I created my own blog award that I am quite proud of....

Now to hand them out and perhaps get it back in return! :)

Here is to my loyal followers, thanks for following my blog! :)

Addie
Ruby
Snuggle Dachshund
Ben at WYD

And even if its not doggy-related...one to my loving in-laws who listen to my babble on about my dog and love me anyways, LOL
Nea and Ed

Temperament Testing on Sunday!

2008-11-07T20:44:00.000-05:00

At last! We are making our first official step towards therapy work! Sunday we are meeting with the PAWS Ministry coordinator for Cayman's temperament testing and orientation! I have to drive about 30 minutes to get there (its in Cape Coral and I live in Ft Myers) but so worth it, especially if he passes. Please cross your fingers that he does!

PAWS Ministry Update

2008-11-06T19:35:00.000-05:00

Hurray! I finally got a response from the coordinator from PAWS Ministry!

I was very happy to hear that she "knew" my dog would be absolutely wonderful but I have to go into the nursing home with an experienced member for my first several visits as an extension of my Temperament Testing so they can "observe my family and pet" (although I think it would probably just be me and Cayman) in the actual nursing home environment. She understands my dilemma with working full time and the weekend being my only true family time. She is in the same position. Part of the reason that they do the ministry on Saturdays, she explained in her email, is so families can be involved. The groups that go to the hospitals go during the week. They have obtained a lot of those people because they work full time and the week days do not work for them. She would say it would be OK for me to go into the nursing homes on my own on Sundays but only after I have had a couple of group visits. She went on to say that she doesn't want to discourage me but she has an obligation as a church leader to control the group since it their insurance policy at stake every time they enter a nursing home with an animal, which I completely understand. She highly encourages people to attend in addition to group visits and has many people that go on opposite days of their group visit for various reasons from work schedules, children extracurricular activities to personality conflict with another animal. She said she has no problem with that as long as she knows the foundation is there for a strong ministry member, which I feel I could be. She stated that they can only find that out by meeting and spending time with me and Cayman.

She went on to stating that she is willing to work with people on an individual basis for Testing since quite a few people have a conflict with the date but would definitely need me to take part in at least (2) group visits prior to going on my own. She says that the testing starts at 10 am and ends between 11 am and 12 pm depending on how many people show up on Saturdays, which is the same exact time as my daughter's music class, and she usually meets people up at their church in Cape Coral when she works with them on an individual basis. I was happy to hear that she can meet most Saturday or Sunday afternoons, which might work out just fine if I can go the group visits after Shaylee's class after all.

So this may be even more possible than I originally imagined!

Delta Society Workshop

2008-11-06T06:36:00.000-05:00

Grrr. I sent the PAWS Ministry another email, since its been about four days, asking them to please at least reply to my email. Its so discouraging to email someone because you really want to help and be part of their organization and be ignored. Four days isn't very long but most people reply to their emails daily. Sigh, maybe I am just being impatient. Or I guess I should just call them. Hopefully they will answer their phone! :)

I finally got the information for the next Gulf Coast Pet Partners Team Training Course. This is a two day workshop in Punta Gorda (about a hour and a half from us) that is part of the requirement to have Cayman tested to be a therapy dog with the Delta Society, one of the most well known therapy dog organizations out there. Since my husband wants to attend as well, it cost $100 for us to share one student manual and attend the instructional workshop together. It is basically going to cover what we have to do and what is expected of Cayman, but without the dogs there. The price also includes the team evaluation which will be held at a later date. This is when Cayman and I show our stuff!

The workshop is February 7th and 8th. Since we will be enrolling Cayman and I into the basic obedience class at the Dog Obedience Club of Lee County in January, he will be learning some if not all the basics to therapy work as I am learning handling skills as well as the Delta requirements. I contacted the coordinator and she said I can send in my check and our applications as soon as possible and would not deposit the check until class, but it would reserve our seat so I might be sending that out very soon. I am so excited!

PAWS Ministry

2008-11-04T18:57:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday we took Cayman to the 8th Annual Pet Fest sponsored by our county animal services. There was a lot of vendors and contests and raffles going on but what caught my attention the most was a big sign that said PAWS Ministry Therapy Dogs. Therapy dogs! The representative explained that t his organization has the pets do the ministry work by taking the pets to local nursing homes the 1st Saturday of each month to share the love of Jesus and our pets. Pets must pass a Temperament Testing but there was no age requirement like most other therapy dog organizations. And all that is required in the temperment test, Cayman could do no problem. I am very excited to possibly get Cayman's feet wet in therapy work as soon as possible and without an age requirement, this seems like the perfect opportunity. The only that would stand in our way is that Saturdays are tough for me, since its the only day my husband and daughter and I get to spend as a family since we both work full time. And our daughter has a Kindermusik class on Saturday mornings. But I did send a really nice email to the coordinator two days ago but have yet to get a reply back. Hmm. Perhaps I should just call the coordinator.... anyhow, here is a copy of the letter. I think it's pretty good myself! Hopefully we will be able to work something out! :)

PAWS Ministry Applicant

Shawna Eugenio-Laufer

Sun, Nov 2, 2008 at 4:01 PM

To: mististpierre@hotmail.com

I would first off like to thank your representatives for a very welcoming booth held at the 8th Annual Pet Fest in Ft Myers this past Saturday. I do not remember the name of the woman I spoke with that day but she was very friendly and made the PAWS Ministry program sound the perfect jumping off point in the long and rewarding journey of therapy work with my 6 month old miniature longhair dachshund puppy, Cayman.

Cayman graduated the Petco Puppy Education class with flying colors in September and we are looking forward to continuing his training to make him the very best dog we know he can be. We are currently taking a break from the professional training for the holiday season but will be attending a basic obedience class which includes the testing requirement training for the Canine Good Citizen certification in January (Dog Obedience Club of Lee County).

We are also on a waiting list for opportunities for therapy work through United Way's many organizations and hope to become members of the Delta Society as well as the Therapy Dogs Inc. Because of his young age, many of these opportunities are not available to us until after Cayman is a year old but we would love to begin working with him as much as possible now, so when he does hit that 12 month of age mark, we are ahead of the game! From my understanding when speaking to your rep, she explained that we could begin working with him in your program as soon as possible, granted he pass that temperament test. I have full confidence that we should have very little issue accomplishing that! Cayman has already been exposed to people with walkers, wheelchairs, and scooters and has shown little interest in them, which is a positive thing since many dogs display fear or aggression to these unknown objects.

He is also raised with a two year old so he is used to children. We try to make it out to the local dog park whenever possible (and plan to have many more opportunities with this cooling weather) to further expose him to other dogs. We have two other dogs and a cat in our house as well. The only thing that might raise a concern is with other dogs- he is still in puppy hood so every other dog he comes into contact with is a potencial playmate! There is absolutely no aggression in this very happy-go-lucky pup! As well as having an amazing disposition, Cayman is current with all vaccinations, is licensed, and neutered. He is groomed daily, bathed weekly so he always looks his best. Since he has such a wonderful personality and is so well behaved, we tend to bring him with us where ever dogs are permitted to further expose him to unusual and unfamiliar settings.

With all these things considered, and his natural affection to all things on two or more legs, I feel we have a very potential and successful therapy dog here. I would be honored and delighted to share the joy Cayman gives me to others through the PAWS Ministry. I would like to arrange a temperment testing as soon as possible. I am aware that the next temperament test is Saturday, November 15th. Unfortunately, I am unavailable Saturdays until after noon since my husband, Nils, and I have enrolled our two year old daughter in a music class and would like to inquire if there is another date, Sundays for example, or other time frame in which this could be arranged.I would also appreciate any additional information regarding this program such as visitation of patient locations and hours, as started before, Saturdays are rather difficult for us since, as full time working parents, it is the one day we can spend together as a family. I am available Sundays however!

Thank you in advance for your consideration in the PAWS Ministry. I do look forward to hearing a reply back from you. I have included some recent pictures of Cayman as well.

-Shawna Eugenio-Laufer

And the Winner Is....

2008-11-04T06:21:00.000-05:00

After much thought, I decided to go with my instinct, and pick the registered name that just flowed perfectly and stood out to me and had high votes on both the poll that was listed here as well as on the dachshund forums I am a member of. And the winner is.........

GCK'S FIVE O'CLOCK SOMEWHERE

Cayman's Registered Name

2008-11-02T13:24:00.000-05:00

I still don't know what to make it. The winning name for the poll I ran here on Cayman's blogspot was GCK's Cayman Cabana Boy and in the dachshund forums the winner was GCK's Five O'Clock Somewhere....but I think I decided I didn't care for the word "cabana". Maybe GCK's Cayman Beach Boy instead? Oh I do not know...just when I think I have it, another word pops up that sounds so good, I try to incorporate it into the name. Like "schooner" and "beachcomber" and "sea-clusion". They are all fun words but I can't seem to make them fit....this is hard. I want to make his registered name really good! I think I may have to settle on the one name in the polls that I have been leaning towards the most which is the GCK's Five O'Clock Somewhere. Grrr!

A New Look for Doxi Doggy Bloggy

2008-11-02T12:04:00.001-05:00

Doxi Doggy Bloggy has a new look! Its more "grownup" for a fast growing pup. Can you believe he is already six month old?!

Happy Howl-O-Weenie!

2008-11-01T00:45:00.000-04:00

Wellness made Smaller

2008-10-30T09:34:00.001-04:00

As you already know, Cayman and Zoey are on Wellness brand dog food. Since they were running low, I had to go to Petco to get some more but all they had besides weight control and large breed was the new Small Breed formula. Since Cayman is a mini dachshund and Zoey a toy poodle, they are definitely small breeds so this was perfect! And they definitely seem to prefer it to the other Wellness formula they were on since the the kibbles are smaller. So I think that's what I will start picking up from now one, especially since we have moved my parent's mix breed dog, Roxy, to her own bag of weight control since she is getting way too tubby.

Supporting the Unique Health Needs of Smaller Dogs through Nutrient-Rich Whole Foods

Optimal Caloric Intake to Support Healthy Body Weight

4 Animal Protein Sources for Lean, Strong Muscles

WellCoat^® Omega 3 & 6 Mix Helps Support Healthy Skin & Coat

With mighty souls but little bodies, your small breed dog has a unique physical composition that creates special nutritional needs.

Smaller Digestive Tracts

Small breeds need to get lots of nutrition from the little portions they consume. We include live, naturally-occurring micro-organisms to support digestive health and we ensure optimal nutrient absorption through our Digestool™ confirmation studies - less nutrients in the stool, means more nutrients in the body.

Higher Energy Needs

The extra energy your small dog needs should come from protein and not just fat. To help maintain optimal weight and healthy body mass, we use 4 quality animal protein sources including deboned turkey, chicken, salmon and Menhaden fish meals.

Sophisticated Tastes

When it comes to taste, small breed dogs have discerning palates. With satisfaction guaranteed, we use real meat to provide a natural taste that little dogs love, without loading their diet with fat.

Up to 50% Longer Life Spans

With a life expectancy of up to 20 years, small breed's life-systems need nutritional support to stay strong. Our 5 for Life™ Supplement System is packed with antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies, vitamins and minerals to help support cellular health.

Need for Skin & Coat Support

Life indoors with extra laptime and petting means that little dogs need nourished skin that produces a healthy coat. To support healthy skin, we add salmon oil and flaxseed as part of our WellCoat^® Omega 3 & 6 Mix.

Guaranteed Great Taste

With satisfaction guaranteed, we use deboned chicken and whitefish to provide a taste that dogs love.

In addition to our quality protein and wholesome grains, this Super5Mix^® recipe includes a unique mix of complementary ingredients for overall wellbeing. We call it our 5 for Life™ Supplement System.

Fruit & Veggie Antioxidant Rainbow

WellCoat^® Omega 3 & 6 Mix

Botanical & Herb Blend

Essential Vitamins & Minerals

ActiCoat™ with Live Micro-organisms

Thoughtfully Made with Whole-foods: Deboned Chicken• Oatmeal • Carrots • Spinach • Sweet Potatoes • Apples • Blueberries • Ground Flaxseed

Never Any: Meat By-Products • Wheat • Corn • Soy • Artificial Colors or Flavors • Artificial Preservatives

Product Ingredients

Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal, Salmon Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Brown Rice, Ground Barley, Rye Flour, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols, a natural source of Vitamin E), Menhaden Fish Meal, Tomato Pomace, Natural Chicken Flavor, Pea Fiber, Tomatoes, Salmon Oil, Ground Flaxseed, Carrots, Spinach, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Potassium Chloride, Minerals [Zinc Sulfate, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite], Vitamins [Beta-Carotene, Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B-12 Supplement], Choline Chloride, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols (a natural preservative), Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum, Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation products.

This is a naturally preserved product.

(L. plantarum, E. faecium, L. casei, L. acidophilus in equal amounts

*Not recognized as an essential nutrient by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles.

Calories Analysis

This food contains 3,740 kcal/kg or 420 kcal/cup ME (metabolizable energy) on an as fed basis (calculated).

Feeding Information

Transitioning to Wellness: It is important to slowly transition your dog from his/her current diet as it takes a few days for the body to adapt to the new nutrient levels. To transition, gradually mix in the new food over a 5-7 day period, increasing the amount of Wellness each day, so that you are feeding 100% Wellness by day 7.

Determining Feeding Portions: : Looking at the chart below, divide the total cups per day by the total number of times you feed your dog per day to determine the portion size for each meal. Keep a clean bowl of fresh water available at all times. Wellness believes in feeding dry and wet food in combination whenever possible to help increase the level of water in your dog's diet.

Combination Feeding
If feeding with wet food, reduce dry amount by 1/8 cup for every 2 tbsp of wet food.

Nutrition is only one part of the equation! Be sure to give your dog plenty of love, plenty of exercise and see your veterinarian regularly to help ensure total wellness.

Nutritional Adequacy Guarantee

100% Complete and Balanced Nutrition for Your Small Breed Dog

Wellness Super5Mix Small Breed Adult Health Recipe Dog Food is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for adult maintenance.

Product Availability and Packaging for this Flavor

4 lb. Bag
12 lb. Bag

Hurray!

2008-10-19T19:45:00.000-04:00

Cayman is half a year old already and finally "of age" to register with the AKC PAL/ILP! Hurray!

Not Really Dachshund Related, But.....

2008-10-19T19:10:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends:

I am writing to you today to tell you about the Komen Southwest Florida Race for the Cure® event that my organized team “Saving Second Base!” and I will be taking part in on Saturday, March 14, 2009. My hope is to not only “imagine a world without breast cancer” but to also do my part to help find the cures. I will be joining more than 7,000 participants, including young children and seniors in an effort to help raise funds to find the cure for breast cancer.

Many have been directly effected by or have known of someone that has been diagnosed with breast cancer. That is why I need your help. I have set a goal of raising at least $500. Any help that you can provide, to help me reach my goal, would be greatly appreciated. Last year, participants rose over $811,000 and had a total of 6,345 participants in the race. Your participation will bring much needed funds to the fight against breast cancer. Just think, a $150 donation will fund one mammogram which could change the life of one individual forever, but ANY dollar amount that is raised makes a difference as there is 1 person that diagnosed with breast cancer EVERY 3 MINUTES and 1 person dies from breast cancer EVERY 13 MINUTES in the US according to the 2008 statistics.

Please keep in mind that thousands of men and women who reside in Southwest Florida cannot afford breast healthcare each year and benefit as a result of funds raised through the Komen Race for the Cure® by receiving screenings, education, and treatments.

And just so you know where your generosity goes, up to 75 percent of the net funds raised in our community help the Southwest FL medically uninsured and underserved. The remaining 25 percent of the net funds raised supports the National Susan G. Komen for the Cure® Grants Program, which funds groundbreaking research around the world. And as always, your donation is 100% US tax-deductible.

Remember EVERY dollar matters! Please, please, please help me!

If you would like to donate please visit my url at:
http://race. komenswfl. org/goto/shawnalaufer-savingsecondbase

More Fun Dogocope Stuff

2008-10-19T18:00:00.000-04:00

Aries (March 21 - April 20)

• Sign of The Ram
• Ruling Planet - Mars
• Most Desirable Qualities - Loyalty and Trust
• Talent - Heart breaker; forgets past failures
• Physical Characteristics - Active and energetic,
prone to headaches and sun stroke
• Lucky Day - Tuesday
• Most Harmonious Signs - Sagittarius, Leo

ME FIRST! That's You! Aries is the first sign of the Zodiac; the sign of a born leader. Your natural vitality drives you to be the "lead dog" and to stay the "lead dog." .

You need space and lots of it and a variety of people in your life, so you are destined to disappear often. Remember, Houdini was an Arian, and you have learned his secrets well. .

You are quick to learn, proud and ambitious and because of these traits you will be able to endear yourself to almost everyone in almost every situation. But those around you should never doubt who holds the leash in this family for you consider yourself to be completely in charge at all times. In fact, you are sure you know not only what is best for you, but also what is best for your master! In spite of this tug of war, or perhaps because of it, you are a loyal and trusted companion.

Your heart is easily moved although you don't show it quite so intensely. You are apt to be quite spoiled because the opposite sex lavishes you with attentions. Happy conditions surrounding your home base make not only for family unity, but make for unusual love opportunities as well. Enjoy yourself for this year will be bright and glorious for you!

You fall in love at first sight and first sight will mean a sweetheart on every corner. Left alone in these situations (even momentarily) could result in an unexpected litter of LookaLikaMe's. According to the stars, however, your best mate would be one born under the sign of Libra.

A creature of habit (and I do mean habit) those around you will find you have little tolerance for re-arranging things in life. You expect your walk promptly at the same time every day, dinner promptly on time and you expect your favorite chair to remain where you like it and you will not forgive being boarded (ever)! Transgressions may cause you to disappear and cause great worry at home. Work on being less stubborn and more flexible (if only you could!) .

Your lucky number is 4 and you will find your soul mate born between September 23 and October 31. Your favorite color is red.

APRIL 19
APRIL 19th:
You have a changeable temperament are fond of food, travel and the out doors. You should take great pride in your possessions and abilities and use them to your best advantage. You are loved sincerely and will have many close friendships. Friendly and good-hearted you are likely to experience an active life. A natural instinct for quickly assessing situations helps put you one step ahead in getting what you want. You possess extremely strong desires and need the love of those born in October, December or March. Good wishes are coming your way!

No More Puppy Teeth!

2008-10-19T17:58:00.001-04:00

Cayman finally loss that other puppy canine the other day- what a relief!

Playtime with Cayman

2008-10-17T06:35:00.000-04:00

Cayman's Weekly Horoscope

2008-10-15T06:51:00.000-04:00

Aries (March 21 - April 20) You exude aura of happiness. You might be going for a ride or on a short trip. Wait and see - it might be the park. Don't break too many hearts.

Get Yours At http://www.doghoroscopes.com

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.My and My Dog's Compatibility Me= Aquarious Cayman= Aries How true is this????!!!!	.
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A very compatible relationship. These two share a common approach to life, even though Aries is self-centered and needs all the attention. Aquarius is just the opposite. Aquarius will just laugh off Aries' attempt to dominate by barking and jumping.	.
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Cayman Gets Featured!

2008-10-15T05:46:00.000-04:00

Cayman got featured in another blog and I nearly fell out of my chair with laughter when I saw what they captioned my little beach buddy with....

Say hello to my little wiener...

EXPLICIT WIENER PICS!
Sponsored by "Wiener Takes All: A Dogumentary"

-click on pic for full size-
Cayman does his famous Scarface impression.

Got an impressive wiener? Then email
a pic to showus@wienertakesall.com.

Take the Poll PLEASE!!!

2008-10-14T21:40:00.001-04:00

Cayman is almost 6 months old which means I can finally register him with the AKC's PAL/ILP so that he may compete in obedience trails and Rally-O but he has to have a registered name. So I have created the same poll that is posted on the Dachshund Haven forums (http://www.thedachshundhaven.com) and his Myspace page to see what others think as well. I just can't decide and NEED others opinions! Please direct others to my blog to vote for their favorite as well. I will be leaving the poll up till 11/1/08 so please, please, please vote today!

One Fang Left!

2008-10-14T21:22:00.000-04:00

I contacted the vet this afternoon for a price quote for a extraction of the extra set of canine teeth. A whole whopping $146 before insurance! Eek! Well, perhaps Cayman could sense my stress level, or maybe nature was just taking its course, but Cayman lost a canine tooth! One fang left! He was kissing me and kept licking his chops funny so I opened his mouth, expecting him to have something in his mouth- the usual remainders of whatever he decided to chew up at the moment and instead found his canine tooth! What a relief!

Two Sets of Fangs on Cayman!

2008-10-10T07:53:00.000-04:00

Cayman looks as though he needs to see a dentist. The little guy has two sets of canines! The decidous or baby teeth, remain only for three to seven months of age. By 5 months of age, a puppy should have all his adult incisors. The adult canines, premolars and molars come in between 4 and 7 months of age, thus by 7 to 8 months of age, a puppy should have all their adult teeth. Cayman has what is referred to as "retained baby teeth". Normally the roots of the puppy teeth are reabsorbed as the adult teeth take their place. When this fails to happen, you can get what appears as a double set of teeth. Toy breeds tend to retain baby teeth more commonly. When a dog retains the decidous teeth, the erupting adult teeth are then pushed out of line,producing a malocclusion or bad bite which can lead to gum injury, inferences with the ability to grasp, hold and chew food, and even dental decay as well as being a conformation default in the breed standard.
From members of the Dachshund Haven Forums, I have been suggested to have these retained teeth removed as soon as possible to avoid any of these issues. I think I will give Cayman to age 7 months to see if they will be shed on their own before putting him under to have them removed by the vet. In the meantime, I will keep an eye on them to make sure they stay clean.

Recipe- Sweet Potato Chews

2008-10-10T07:14:00.000-04:00

Thoroughly wash sweet potatoes. Cut down the middle lengthwise. Cut long lengthwise slices about 1/3 of an inch wide and place them in a single layer on a cookie sheet. Bake in the oven at 250 degrees for about 3 hours. This will leave them with a chewy texture. For crunchier treats, bake longer until they are the desired consistency.

I found this recipe online after being somewhat disgusted with the price of those all natural sweet potato chews found in stores (sometimes up to $6 for a little 5 oz package). So I went to the grocery store and bought two HUGE sweet potatoes (2 lbs to be exact) at $0.99 a pound, sliced them up and threw them on the food dehydrator for a little over 24 hours, although you could easily do them in the oven for about 3 hours (I felt it was safer to leave the dehydrator on unattended than the oven). And they came out really well! Some were still kinda sponge-y and chewy like those apple rings you can buy in health food stores and the thinner sliced ones were like apple chips, nice and crunchy. I love cooking for my dogs and they seem to really love when I do too!

Does anyone else have any healthy dog treat recipes they would like to share?

A Fancy Name for a Not So Fancy Dog

2008-10-09T21:19:00.000-04:00

Time is flying by... I can barely believe Cayman is going to be 6 months old on the 19th! Which means he is old enough to be registered with the AKC's Purebred Alternative Listing/ Indefinite Listing Privilege registration. This is a special registration for purebred dogs that do not have papers or have had their papers lost (adopted dogs/ rescued dogs) etc. to allow them to participate and compete in obedience trials- like Rally. Cayman does not have AKC papers but does need to be registered with the AKC to participate. So I have to think of a registered name. You know, those fancy long names show dogs have? So we decided we wanted it to be beach themed and maybe play up his nickname, "wittleman".

So far we have:
"GCK's Wittleman and the Sea" or "GCK's Wittleman 'N the Sea"

We are just waiting to hear back from some more experienced dachshund breeders that have registered their dogs with the AKC already. I basically need to know if using the words "and" and "the" are appropriate in a registered name. And in case you were wondering, GCK stands for the breeder's information which is Gentry's Celtic Kennels.

We Still Need Your Votes!

2008-10-09T06:52:00.000-04:00

Cayman was going strong in the Care-ALot photo contest but now he is struggling... please click the link, hit the Vote button and you are done. That's it..nothing time consuming. Please vote for Cayman!

http://www.carealotpets.com/PhotoFavs/VotePage.asp?PhotoID=1349

Cayman's 1st Professional Photo

2008-10-05T20:32:00.000-04:00

Vote for Cayman Daily!!!

2008-10-02T20:13:00.000-04:00

Hey friends! I was wondering if you would be so kind as to vote for Cayman in a photo contest on Care-A-Lot pet supplies’ website.

Here’s all you have to do….click the link and enter my ID number when you get there. Then cross your fingers that he wins! Winner gets a $25 gift card! Its one vote per day so mark the page as a favorite and come back often!

http://www.carealotpets.com/PhotoFavs/VotePhotos.asp

Enter ID# 1349

Bummer, No Tax Break for Therapy Dogs

2008-10-02T20:12:00.000-04:00

Bummer. Somethings ARE too good to be true. Figuring a tax break of any kind for Cayman's therapy work DID seem a little too perfect. So I looked into it a bit more and finally resorted to posting this question on Yahoo Answers....the source being a service dog trainer/advocate that has worked with therapy dogs in the past. I guess I didn't read all the finer details, or the sources I had read were not very clear in defining the difference in a therapy dog and a service dog, a common mistake.

My Question:

I understand that certain aspects of owning a service dog are tax deductable- but what about therapy dogs?

The therapy dog group I will be working with is eligible to receive tax deductions according to the IRS website. Can I get a deduction on his training? What other aspects can I get deducted???

The Answer Received:

There are no deductions or tax breaks of any kind for owning a therapy dog.

Some of the expenses of some types of service dog can be deducted as unreimbursed medical expense. Service animals are considered "durable medical assistive devices," the same as a wheel chair or walker and that's what makes their training and maintenance a medical expense. The IRS does not recognize all types of service dogs, including owner-trained dogs without documentation, and medical alert/response dogs.

A therapy dog used for visiting hospitals and nursing homes would not be medical equipment for you, so it would not qualify for such a deduction.

I doubt the therapy organization you are with gets a tax deduction. They probably get a tax exemption (to make purchases without paying sales tax), not from being a therapy dog group, but from being a 501(c)3 public charity.

There's a lot of confusion among the public between therapy dogs and service dogs. They are two entirely different things. Many dogs have jobs (therapy dogs, police dogs, search and rescue dogs, hunting dogs, etc.). Only service dogs are addressed under federal and state disability laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act. Service dogs may accompany their disabled handler to places where pet dogs are not permitted. Therapy dogs cannot. Service dogs are granted an exception to stay in rental housing and in hotels that do not permit pets and are exempted from deposits and pet fees, because they are medical devices, not pets.

Legally therapy dogs are considered pets. They have no more rights than pets do and their owners have no more rights than other pet owners. Therapy dog certification shows facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes that the dog has received certain training, temperament evaluations, health screening and has liability insurance. It is not a guarantee that the therapy dog can enter any hospital the owner chooses. They may enter only with permission from the hospital administration. The reasons for getting certified are to get that liability insurance and to get documentation to use in convincing the hospital to let you visit their facility.

Rally-O: Brief Description

2008-10-01T20:12:00.000-04:00

From [Dog Owner's Guide: Rally Obedience (www.canismajor.com/dog/rallyo.html)]

"What in the world is that?!" someone asked me at a recent show and pointed to the ring where stewards were setting up ground-level signs. I answered simply, "rally obedience," and explained the strange goings-on in the ring.

Rally obedience, or "Rally-O" as it has been termed by enthusiasts, is the latest American Kennel Club event to hit the show circuit. Rally-O combines characteristics of sports car racing, dog agility, and traditional obedience into a new fun sport.

Rally is timed, includes 12-20 performance stations depending on the level of participation, and is scored by a judge who watches for a smooth performance as well as skill in following the directions at each station.

As it does with obedience and agility, AKC offers Rally titles at three levels:

Novice, with on-leash exercises that demonstrate the dog's understanding of basic commands such as sit, stay, down, and come and heel position;
Advanced, a set of exercises performed off-leash that includes at least one jump; and
Excellent, a more difficult off-leash course that includes at least one jump and demonstrates more precise skill and coordination between the dog and handler.

As in agility, courses are designed by the judge and are different in every trial. Exhibitors receive a course map from the judge and can walk the course without their dogs prior to the start of the class. Judges design their courses by choosing from more than four dozen stations that direct handlers and dogs to perform specific exercises.

A sign at each station gives instructions to the dog-handler team, and each team must execute the station's particular task within two-to-four feet of the sign. Once the judge gives the command "forward," the dog and handler complete the course on their own without further commands from the judge. Handlers may not use treats or toys in the ring, but may do anything else to encourage their dogs at the novice and advanced levels except physically touch them or make corrections with the leash. Encouragement is allowed at the excellent level but handlers cannot pat their legs or clap their hands as they can in novice and advanced classes.

Signs instruct teams to go fast or slow, to halt (dog must sit at heel), to make turns and circles, to reverse direction, to do a sit-stay-recall, or to follow other basic obedience exercises.

Each team has a starting score of 100 points from which points are deducted for such faults as missed or incompletely performed stations, touching the dog, leash corrections, etc. The team with the highest score (i.e., fewest number of faults) wins first place, followed by the next highest score for second place, and so forth.

If two teams achieve the same score, the judge determines the placements according to the time recorded for each team's course completion.

Rally-O is a wonderful introduction to the sport of obedience for dogs and owners, an end it itself, an opportunity for veteran dogs to remain active, and a chance for shy or anti-social dogs to get ring experience without worrying about being examined by a judge.

Many dogs enjoy this change from the usual silent heeling of traditional obedience as their handlers can clap hands, talk, whistle (even sing!) to them throughout the entire course without penalty. Those who participate in agility trials will recognize the pre-class "walk-throughs" and the challenge of working with their dog partners in an almost dance-like flow from one station to another. A complete description of Rally Obedience is on the AKC website at http://www.akc.org/pdfs/rulebooks/RO2999.pdf. Station signs for all three levels can be found http://www.akc.org/pdfs/rulebooks/ROR999.pdf. Information is also available at dog clubs that are sponsoring demonstrations and classes for an increasing number of dog owners who are happily exclaiming "Rally-O!"

Soft Claws, Rally and New Obedience Classes

2008-10-01T18:45:00.000-04:00

I found the coolest thing online. I have seen these Soft Claws in the past but never really thought about how beneficial they would be, especially for a therapy dog. They are these soft caps that are glues onto a dog (or cat's) nail to dull the sharp edges to protect floors, people, doors, and even from scratching themselves (think hotspots or itchy skin that is irritated already). When you have a therapy dog, they are expected to be well behaved and not jump on people but you always worry in the back of your mind that one day, your dog is going to scratch the patient and that does not make for a pleasurable experience, one of the main reasons for having the dog visit the patient in the first place. I decided I would definitely get these for Cayman even before he begins his therapy work. He is still a rambunctious puppy and we are still working with him to not jump on people, especially on Shaylee, our two year old daughter. Even though he is not broken the skin, since me manage to keep his nails at a reasonable length, they still can leave ugly marks down your legs. So I have a rep from the company sending me a sample nail cap in black, clear and blue- the only colors I was considering (I am still unsure of the blue…) in the two sizes I think he would wear. This way I can see the product up close and try one on him. Perhaps I will even get them for the cat (who really, really needs them) and Zoey (she’d look great in the pink ones). I noticed that Petsmart carries them on their website to be ordered online so I will have to be smart and look into whether it’s more affordable to buy them at the store (if available) or order online, and if so, which website has the best deal on them.

I also discovered that certain organizations are eligible to receive tax deductions, such as some therapy dog groups. And when I searched the IRS website, I was delighted to see that Therapy Dogs Incorporated was included (strangely Delta Society was not or at least I could not find them)! So I started a spreadsheet of everything I am (have) bought for Cayman that is therapy dog related for tax purposes. So far I got my “The Canine Good Citizen- Every Dog Can Be One” book as a material item, and Cayman’s “Therapy Dog in Training” bandana listed as supplies. I may or may not be able to use them towards my tax deductions but I would rather have it all together, just in case. And if nothing else, it’s a good way to see how much I am spending to go this, since I can get a little over my head when I have my heart set on something. I think I am going to put my dog training classes on there as well (not the Petco puppy training class since that is more just dog ownership related) as well as the mileage used to get to the training classes and when he actually begins working as a therapy dog- the mileage to get to the establishments we are visiting (you can deduct the cost of driving at a rate of $.14 per mile), and of course the Soft Claws (equipment).

Speaking of dog training classes… Nils, my husband, has agreed to treat me (and Cayman of course) to dog obedience classes with our local AKC dog club- the Dog Obedience Club of Lee County (DOCLC) for Christmas. The class that we will be attending starts January 7^th. It’s a 6 weeks for $60, every Wednesday night, in which he will learn the basics of obedience, a step above what he learned already at the Petco course. He is also going to attend the intermediate obedience classes which are $20 for 20 weeks of training in which he will learn a lot of what’s covered in the CGC certification tests as well as Rally. For that price, you can’t beat that! And I have seen the dog’s in action at this past weekend’s Responsible Dog Ownership Day- the dog’s are geniuses and so obedient!

And the best part of the DOCLC is that after you complete the 20 week intermediate course, you can apply for membership with DOCLC and pay only $30 a year in membership fees and get to go and train at the club as often as you like for no charge! And with what you learn in the classes, you can go on to competitions of the various dog sports and win titles and prizes! What fun!

Rally. That’s another subject I would LOVE to get Cayman into as it looks like such fun! It’s a dog sport in which the dog and handler complete a course of exercise stations. The dog and handler can complete them at their own pace and the scoring is not as rigorous as traditional obedience trials. Plus the handlers are allowed to praise, talk, and encourage their dogs. Rally is an excellent link from the CGC program to obedience or agility competitions. Plus Cayman could earn titles like Rally Novice (RN), Rally Advanced (RA), Rally Excellent (RE), and Rally Advanced Excellent (RAE)! The woman that runs the DOCLC said Cayman would be excellent at it.

Oh and I almost forgot, Zoey finally got her haircut. She looks like a real poodle now. The only problem is Cayman tends to play a little rough with her. He is so used to that big plush coat to grab onto when he plays and now its gone. She has in more than one occasion got nipped a bit too hard when playing, so we are working on that. Cayman is at that bratty stage where he torments the other dogs to constantly play with him.

Cayman in Meet the Breeds- VIDEO!!

2008-09-27T18:57:00.000-04:00

Meet the Breed- Cayman Represents the Dachshund

2008-09-24T05:33:00.000-04:00

AWESOME!

The coordinator for Dog Obedience Club of Lee County replied stating she does not have a dachshund for the Meet the Breeds segment at the Responsible Dog Ownership Day and has asked that Cayman represent the breed! What fun! Now I got to refresh myself on what a dachshund was bred to do since my is not much more than a foot warmer and cuddle bug, and what type of pet they make (awesome if you ask me, but my lifestyle fits what a dachshund needs, others may not). This is so exciting!!!

His Bandanna Came, Finally!

2008-09-23T21:05:00.000-04:00

Yippy! Cayman’s “Therapy Dog in Training” bandanna came just in time for this weekend’s Responsible Dog Ownership Day. With so many dog lovers around (and their dogs), it’s a perfect opportunity to get him exposed to various ages and kinds of people as well as other dogs. Since his bandanna promotes what we are trying to accomplish including the words “Ask To Pet”, it will get people to stop and ask to pet him which helps towards his CGC training test of “Sitting Politely for Petting” and “Greeting A Friendly Stranger”.

Around the country in September 2008, the AKC invites and encourages all dog and pet-related organizations to commemorate AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day by holding community events that publicly promotes responsible dog ownership anytime during the month.

The Dog Obedience Club of Lee Country (DOCLC) is holding their own Responsible Dog Ownership Day this Saturday at Bass Pro Shops in the Gulf Coast Town Center from 9am to 4pm. This AKC sponsored event is a great opportunity to demonstrate the benefit of a well behaved and obedient dog to the public while introducing them to such things as the variety of dog breeds and dog sports available. Other organizations such as dog rescue groups and search and rescue will be there as well.

The event is scheduled to start at 9 am with an obedience demo put on by the DOCLC. They are to have information tables as well as a large ring set up and will be conducting the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Test in an upstairs conference room.

I sent an email off to the woman who is head of this event to see if she needed a dachshund for the Meet the Breeds. I explained to her what we are working with Cayman to accomplish and how it would benefit us but also introduce his breed. And with his unusual coloration, he is interesting.

Therapy Dog Training Starts Now!

2008-09-18T20:41:00.000-04:00

Cayman is gonna be one busy pup. I have read and reread “The Canine Good Citizen- Every Dog Can Be One” over and over and based on the training methods outlined in that book, have devised a customized training program just for Cayman.

The book describes an 8 week training course. Well, I got much more time than that. I have 31 weeks to be exact before Cayman turns a year old and in turn can be tested for his CGC certification. So I made my own training program that consists of training, everyday, beginning today. For each of the weekly training exercises outlined in the book, I have taken them and stretched them over the course of about three weeks, four for the exercises I think he would need the most help with.

Now I just need to commit. It’s going to take patience, and time, but I think it will be well worth it. He’s a really smart boy, and if I see he has mastered a behavior (as in he performs it on command only without any assistance from me for at 80% of the time) then I will move on a little faster or throw some “tricks” in instead of the core exercises. So far he has gotten the “High Five” down. Even with those short little legs, he gets them up there!

This week’s schedule consists of the following exercises:

1. Basic Control- The 30 Minute Down: This exercise physically placed Cayman into the Down position. This teaches him who is in charge which makes all further training that much easier. It basically makes Cayman lay in the Down position up to 30 minutes. He is not to get up or break the Down until I give the “Ok” command, even if it means he has fallen asleep. Hmm. This sounds like a challenge.

2. Continue to practice the “Sit” command, which he is really good at already, just not consistent. We are to have him practice his sit at least 5 times in the session.

3. Continue to practice the “Stay” command for at least 30 seconds, 5 times per session. Cayman is pretty good at the Stay, for even longer than 30 seconds so this should be a breeze.

4. For fun I threw in the “Rollover” command. Cayman begun learning this during his Puppy Education class at Petco but still needs some practice. And of course his high five.

So that’s just week’s training scheduled. Hmm, I am beginning to wonder if I sound like on of those parents that pushes their kids into all kinds of extra curriculative activities! But then again when you break down just how long I would be tearing my puppy away from chewing up my daughter’s pacifiers and wrestling with the other dogs or chasing lizards on the patio, it really isn’t but about an hour tops. That’s about how long his Puppy Education class at Petco was and he did so well then! I think the hardest is going to be that 30 Minute Down. Wish me luck!

Therapy Dogs Inc.

2008-09-16T06:50:00.000-04:00

I have decided to go with Therapy Dogs Inc (TDInc.) I had a very nice phone call from the coordinator at the Healthpark Medical Center, named Barbara Leddy, who is the evaluator for Therapy Dogs Inc. She basically laid it all out for me, explaining the process I had to follow to get Cayman working as a therapy dogs. She said that the CGC was not a requirement like it is for Delta Society and Therapy Dogs International (TDI) although I still plan on getting Cayman certified as a CGC anyhow. Basically as long as the dog is well behaved and friendly they can be a TDInc dog. TDInc seems more relaxed on their rules and requirements which is a good starting point.

Here is the process I have worked out following the TDInc. requirements as well as my own personal goals with Cayman:

1. Work with Cayman following the CGC handbook. Although not all tests in the CGC are required, the more training he can receive the better.

2. Sometime around January, fill out the Volunteer Application for Healthpark Medical Center. From there I will have to attend a three hour orientation and complete a two step Tuberculosis (TB) Test and purchase the necessary shirt identifying me as a hospital volunteer.

3. After the Volunteer process, and sometime soon after Cayman's first birthday, have a CGC evaluator test him for his CGC certification.

4. Meanwhile, as long as Cayman is over a year old, I can take him to Healthpark and begin his testing as a therapy dog. Basically he is going to be evaluated by the Coordinator while interacting with the patients. He must pass three observations within a 6 month period to be considered for TDInc.

5. After three successful observations, the Coordinator signs a form which I mail off with my membership fee, which I think is $25. He is then considered a real therapy dog and will recieve a special heart shaped ID tag that goes on his collar that proudly states "I Am A Therapy Dog".

6. I will probably pursue the Delta Society as well since they have the R.E.A.D program at our local libraries. Since he will have already received his CGC certification, all I would need to do it apply to Delta Society and get evaluated by them as well. But this is an afterthought, we are focusing on TDInc.

I have already ordered a special custom bandanna that is blue with yellow lettering on it that says "Therapy Dog In Training" with Cayman's name down one side (where the bandanna comes to a point) and "Ask To Pet" down the other side of the point. This is good for when we are out and about socializing and training him to get strangers to see what we are doing and to get them to ask to pet him which only reinforces everything we are trying to train him for the CGC and TDInc requirements. The more friendly stangers he can be exposed to the better. I ordered it sometime last week so it maybe a little while before it comes. Since its all custom embroidery work, I understand I have to be patient- even if it is so hard since I am so excited to begin taking him out wearing it! Keep checking back as you know I will have pictures posted!

Speaking of exposure, Sunday I took both Cayman and Zoey to the doggy park. We were there for 5 hours!!! It was such a nice day and everyone (dogs and owners) were so friendly and the dogs were having so much fun, I just couldn't leave. My friend Alicia, who was also the trainer for the Puppy Education Class that Cayman graduated from at Petco, came too with her corgi, Kiwi. She is working with Kiwi to do therapy work too. What made the day even better was that there was a gentleman on crutches there. Exposure to people in wheelchairs, crutches, and canes is especcially important since therapy dogs are exposed to them all the time in a hospital setting. Cayman paid them no attention which is good since some dogs are fearful or will bark at such an unusual sight. It gave me even more confidence that Cayman will do well as a therapy dog. And he interacted so well with the other dogs, another plus!

Zukes Mini Naturals- You Gotta Get These!

2008-09-14T06:26:00.000-04:00

I am so excited! I got my CGC Program Participant handbook from the AKC and my "The Canine Good Citizen- Every Dog Can Be One" book from Amazon.com which looks to be a great book. I can't wait to begin working with Cayman with the exercises mentioned in there today.

Since joining Petco's PetPals club, I got two coupons in the mail. One was for a free pound of treats from the treat bar and the other was for 10% my entire transaction. So yesterday while the family was on our way to Estero Community Park playground, we restocked our dog food supply (Wellness Lamb, Barley and Salmon blend this time for variety- my second bag towards my free bag program of buy 10 get 11th free), our free pound of treats, and some new all natural training bits.

These training treats are perfect! They are called Zuke's Mini Naturals Healthy Moist Miniature Dog Treats in peanut butter formula. They are tiny and meaty and low in calories which I needed in a training treat. Also they are all natural which is what I had been looking for as they have no wheat, corn, soy, articifial colors, flavors, added fat or by-products. But the best part of all? They are made in the USA and a portion of the profits go to the Dog and Cat Cancer Fund! The 6 oz bag is a little costly, about $5.35 a bag, but my local Petco has been doing these over the phone surveys which after completion give you a code which then saves you $2 off any purchase of $5 of more so I used my last survey code coupon for this bag. Since I am in Petco all the time, I get these surveys on every other transaction so I will just save them for buying Zukes treats whenever possible.

Dog Years- Interesting!

2008-09-10T19:31:00.000-04:00

It is often said that people live 7 times as long as dogs so each year of a dog's life is equal to 7 years of a human's life. This is inaccurate for two reasons:

The longest-lived breeds have an average lifespan which is double that of the shortest-lived breeds. So one can only map years after considering the breed and other factors described above.
Most breeds (especially the smaller breeds) have a relatively short childhood compare to people. A small dog with an expected lifespan of 15 years would be mature (sexually and physically) within 1 year. A man with an expected lifespan of 75 years (the current approximate male life expectancy in developed countries) would have the equivalent maturity at 15 years of age. Thus the dog reached maturity in 1/15th of its lifespan whereas the person was mature in 1/5th (15 years / 75 years) of his lifespan. Consequently, while one can say that the man is living 5 times as long as the dog, so each dog year is equal to 5 human years, the first year of life for the dog sees the same amount of development as in the first 15 or so human years. For this reason, an accurate mapping of dog years to human years needs to consider factors other than expected lifespan. The following table does this, considering the different development stages and the rates at which they are reached (on average) for the different sizes of dogs.

Size and Aging

Calendar Years	Under 20 lbs (9 kg)	20-50 lbs (9-23 kg)	50-90 lbs (23-41kg)	Over 90 lbs (over 41 kg)
1	15	15	14	12
2	23	24	22	20
3	28	29	29	28
4	32	34	34	35
5	36	38	40	42
6	40	42	45	49
7	44	47	50	56
8	48	51	55	64
9	52	56	61	71
10	56	60	66	78
11	60	65	72	86
12	64	69	77	93
13	68	74	82	101
14	72	78	88	108
15	76	83	93	115
16	80	87	99	123
17	84	92	104
18	88	96	109
19	92	101	115
20	96	105	120

The above table is based on averages. However, considering the additional factors (such as breed) discussed on this page would give a more accurate forecast for individual dogs. The oldest recorded age for a dog is 27 years.

So that means that a dog under 20 lbs at 5 months is about10 years old in people years, 8 months is 13 years, and so on, following the table above. Cool huh?

Cayman Gets Mentioned!

2008-09-09T21:12:00.001-04:00

http://spottsdogcare.blogspot.com/
Read all about NuVet Plus, the miracle supplement Cayman gets every single morning too!

Cayman Graduates Petco Puppy Ed Class!

2008-09-09T20:27:00.000-04:00

Cayman- Future Therapy Dog

2008-09-08T19:40:00.001-04:00

The quest to make Cayman a therapy is definitely on. I got in touch with Ann, the Lee County Coordinator for the Delta Society affiliated Gulf Coast Pet Partners and Jodie, the coordinator for the programs offered at the library. I contacted her regarding the workshops I saw posted. Part of getting certified is to completed a 12 hour workshop or complete a home study course if there were no workshops in our area. The workshops take place in Punta Gorda in October and there will be another one in the spring, dates not yet determined. Punta Gorda is about 45 minutes from where we live. Even my husband, Nils, decided he would like to attend the two day workshop so we decided to wait until the spring to enter since 1. Cayman can not be tested to be a therapy dog until he is a year old which he will be in April… and 2. The price to have both Nils and I attend together would be $100 ($75 if I went alone). Anyhow, Ann was very helpful and has us down as future students and will contact us when it gets closer to the spring workshop.

On of the benefits of the Pet Partners Team is that Cayman could be a R.E.A.D dog, as in Reading Education Assistance Dog. This is when certified dogs in the Pet Partners Team go to libraries and sit with children while they read aloud. The purpose of this is that is allows children the ability to read aloud without feeling embarrassed, after all, a dog isn’t going to laugh at them when they have difficulties or mispronounce a word. Our local libraries refer to this program as Read to Dogs Program.

How the Read to Dogs Program works is that the owners/handlers and the dogs have a blanket that they spread out and at opposite ends of the room. When a child is ready the coordinator brings them in and the handlers introduce themselves, talk about the dog, basically being friendly. Sometimes the kids are nervous around the dogs so the coordinator may sit with them, and sometimes two kids will share a book or poem and switch off reading the lines. The idea is to encourage the kids to read. The dogs are there to listen without judgment and even allow the kids to pet them which can relax them, sometimes making reading easier. They allow the parents to watch as well, from a distance, to allow the children some freedom to make those mistakes without feeling they are disappointing their parents. I love the whole idea behind this!

Jodie went on to explain in the form of an email, that some owners make these cute bookmarks with the dogs picture on them so the kids get one when they are done reading. How cute is that? I am really excited of crafting those! And she said even some of the dogs have their own books in which the owners have the kids sign their names, the date and the title of the story shared and maybe even share some comments or memories of the day. I think I would go a step further and have Cayman’s picture taken with the kids he reads with. She says the hardest part of this is having the owner/handlers sit on the floor for an hour. Piece of cake if you ask me!

I already looked on our local libraries website for future dates in which the Read to Dogs Programs were scheduled. Jodie welcomed me to stop by and take a peek of the dogs, kids and handlers in action. I have a couple dates I am considering so that will be posted on Cayman’s calendar. Hmm…I wonder if I could bring him with me? Probably not since he is not certified yet. He has some training that needs to be done before we can do that.

Jodie and Ann even recommended some location in which dogs were permitted to gain the socialization experience he will need for some of the tests listed to become certified. They included the Bass Pro Shop which is a sporting goods store (although she has only heard this through the grapevine and isn’t 100% sure- although they are the ones hosting this years Responsible Dog Ownership Day on September 27^th which we will be attending); the garden areas of the local hardware stores like Lowes and Home Depot, the Driftwood Nursery and the dog beaches and dog parks. They said there is even dog walks on occasion at the nature center so I have lots of options on places I can take him. Ann stated that even though I am waiting to take the workshop, I can still be working basic obedience with Cayman, which I fully intended to do anyhow. The most important commands/ actions to know are “sit”, “down”, “come”, and passing a neutral dog without sniffing, barking, or touching the other dog. Cayman needs a lot of help on this one. That’s the only time he pulls on the leash; he just can’t get over to that other dog to sniff its butt fast enough! And since most of the other dogs we have encountered could use some obedience training themselves, we usually find ourselves with some play barking and tough housing. Cayman is quite the social butterfly, those other dogs become fast friends with him, LOL.

I have also made contact with Sandy, who is a CGC evaluator. I will get to meet her in person at the Responsible Dog Ownership Day at the end of the month. I reached out to her since I know she was a CGC trainer listed online. She said they offer a CGC course through the local dog club, the Dog Obedience Club of Lee County, and do the evaluation periodically throughout the year. The training course is quite affordable, only $60 for a 6 week course which are once a week. A popular dog day care and training academy in the area charges $150 for an 8 week class. The only problem is the training location is quite some distance away from home and since its held on a workday, I don’t know if I would have time to go home after work, pick up Cayman and commute to the training location and still be there on time. But then again, I have a year before he can be tested, maybe when it’s closer to when he can be tested they will offer another location so that I could take the course right up to the time when he can be tested. Hmm… there is an idea. In the meantime I can enjoy watching the obedience and rally demonstrations that the Responsible Dog Ownership Day.

Also in the meantime, I have ordered a book on the CGC training and a book on therapy dogs. I have no doubt that by the time Cayman is a year old, he would make a perfect therapy dog candidate. I just need to keep working him everyday and expose him to as many of the situations listed in the test as possible between now and then. Wish me luck! This is quite an exciting and rewarding adventure we are about to begin!

What is the CGC I Mentioned Before?

2008-09-07T21:04:00.000-04:00

Started in 1989, CGC is a certification program that is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. The Canine Good Citizen Program is a two-part program that stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. All dogs who pass the 10-step CGC test may receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club.

CGC is a certification program that is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. The Canine Good Citizen Program is a two-part program that stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. All dogs who pass the 10-step CGC test may receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club.

Many dog owners choose Canine Good Citizen training as the first step in training their dogs. The Canine Good Citizen Program lays the foundation for other AKC activities such as obedience, agility, tracking, and performance events. As you work with your dog to teach the CGC skills, you'll discover the many benefits and joys of training your dog. Training will enhance the bond between you and your dog. Dogs who have a solid obedience education are a joy to live with-they respond well to household routines, have good manners in the presence of people and other dogs, and they fully enjoy the company of the owner who took the time to provide training, intellectual stimulation, and a high quality life.

AKC's Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program is one of the most rapidly growing programs in the American Kennel Club. There are many exciting applications of this wonderful, entry level that go beyond the testing and certifying of dogs.

Many other countries (including England, Australia, Japan, Hungary, Denmark, Sweden, Canada, and Finland) have developed CGC programs based on the AKC's CGC Program. A CGC Neighborhood Model has been established, police and animal control agencies use CGC for dealing with dog problems in communities, some therapy dog groups use the CGC as a partial screening tool, and some 4-H groups around the country have been using the CGC as a beginning dog training program for children.

A number of specialty (one breed only) clubs give the CGC at their annual national dog show. Dog clubs have discovered that the CGC is an event that allows everyone to go home a winner. Veterinarians have recognized the benefits of well-trained dogs and there are some CGC programs in place in veterinary hospitals. State legislatures began recognizing the CGC program as a means of advocating responsible dog ownership and 34 states now have Canine Good Citizen resolutions.

In a little over one decade, the Canine Good Citizen Program has begun to have an extremely positive impact in many of our communities. This is a program that can help us assure that the dogs we love will always be welcomed and well-respected members of our communities.

AKC's Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program is one of the most rapidly growing programs in the American Kennel Club. There are many exciting applications of this wonderful, entry level that go beyond the testing and certifying of dogs.

Many other countries (including England, Australia, Japan, Hungary, Denmark, Sweden, Canada, and Finland) have developed CGC programs based on the AKC's CGC Program. A CGC Neighborhood Model has been established, police and animal control agencies use CGC for dealing with dog problems in communities, some therapy dog groups use the CGC as a partial screening tool, and some 4-H groups around the country have been using the CGC as a beginning dog training program for children.

A number of specialty (one breed only) clubs give the CGC at their annual national dog show. Dog clubs have discovered that the CGC is an event that allows everyone to go home a winner. Veterinarians have recognized the benefits of well-trained dogs and there are some CGC programs in place in veterinary hospitals. State legislatures began recognizing the CGC program as a means of advocating responsible dog ownership and 34 states now have Canine Good Citizen resolutions.

All dogs, including both purebred and mixed breed dogs are welcome to participate in the AKC's Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program. Dogs must be old enough to have received necessary immunizations such as rabies vaccines. Owners will sign the Responsible Dog Owners Pledge attesting to having the dog under the routine care of a veterinarian who will work with the owner to determine an appropriate plan and schedule for vaccines and other health care procedures.

There is no age limit for the CGC test. A dog is never too old to be a good citizen. Puppies who have completed all immunizations and boosters may be tested, however, because we know that behavior and temperament can change over time, when puppies pass the CGC test, owners should have them re-tested as adults.

There are a few exceptions relating to participation in a CGC test. If the CGC test is given at an AKC show, the age requirements for the show apply to CGC also. Further, when the CGC test is administered at an AKC show, the test may be restricted to only dogs entered in the show or to purebred dogs.

Some dogs who are entered in CGC tests will have completed CGC classes or basic obedience classes. Owners who have trained their dogs themselves may also have their dogs tested. Clubs and training programs in almost every city can provide CGC training to owners and dogs who need to learn a few more skills before taking the test.

Many dog owners complete CGC training and testing as a prerequisite to therapy dog certification. While the AKC does not certify therapy dogs, we are very proud that so many CGC dogs and their owners volunteer their time to improve the lives of other people. There are national therapy dog groups (and in some cities local groups) that certify therapy dogs. Therapy Dogs International (TDI) uses the AKC Canine Good Citizen test as a key component of its therapy dog assessment. TDI can be reached at www.tdi-dog.org

Testing Requirements

AKC CGC TEST® / PLUS ADDED TDI REQUIREMENTS
* TDI Requirements are displayed in italics

Test 1: Accepting a Friendly Stranger
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation. The Evaluator and handler shake hands and exchange pleasantries. The dog must show no sign of resentment or shyness, and must not break position or try to go to the Evaluator.

The dog must be tested around medical equipment (such as a wheelchair, crutches, cane, walker, or other devices which would ordinarily be found in a facility) to judge the dog’s reactions to common health care equipment. At the discretion of the Evaluator, this part of the test may be included in any of the following tests: 2,3,5 or 9

Test 2: Sitting Politely for Petting
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while it is out with its handler. The dog should sit at the handler’s side as the Evaluator approaches and begins to pet the dog on the head and body only. The dog may stand in place to accept petting. The dog must not show shyness or resentment.

Test 3: Appearance and Grooming
This practical test demonstrates that the dog will welcome being groomed and examined and will permit a stranger, such as a veterinarian, groomer or friend of the owner, to do so. It also demonstrates the owner’s care, concern and sense of responsibility. The Evaluator inspects the dog, then combs or brushes the dog, and lightly examines the ears and each front foot.

Test 4: Out For a Walk
(Walking on a Loose Leash)
This test demonstrates that the handler is in control of the dog. The dog can be on either side of the handler, whichever the handler prefers. There must be a left turn, a right turn and an about turn, with at least one stop in between and another at the end. The dog need not be perfectly aligned with the handler and need not sit when the handler stops.

Test 5: Walking Through a Crowd
This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people (at least three). The dog may show some interest in the strangers, without appearing overexuberant, shy or resentful. The handler may talk to the dog and encourage or praise the dog throughout the test. The dog should not be straining at the leash.

Test 6: Sit and Down on Command/Staying in Place
This test demonstrates that the dog has training, will respond to the handler’s command to sit and down, and will remain in the place commanded by the handler (sit or down position, whichever the handler prefers). The handler may take a reasonable amount of time and use more than one command to make the dog sit and then down. When instructed by the Evaluator, the handler tells the dog to stay and walks forward the length of a 20-foot line. The dog must remain in place, but may change positions.

Test 7: Coming when Called
This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler. The handler will walk 10 feet from the dog, turn to face the dog, and call the dog. The handler may use encouragement to get the dog to come. Handlers may choose to tell the dog to “stay” or “wait,” or they may simply walk away, giving no instructions to the dog as the Evaluator provides mild distraction (e.g., petting).

Test 8: Reaction to Another Dog
This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 10 yards, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries, and continue on for about 5 yards. The dogs should show no more than a casual interest in each other.

Test 9: Reactions to Distractions
This test demonstrates that the dog is confident at all times when faced with common distracting situations, such as the dropping of a large book or a jogger running in front of the dog. The dog may express a natural interest and curiosity and/or appear slightly startled, but should not panic, try to run away, show aggressiveness or bark.

Leave-It: The handler with the dog on a loose leash walks past food on the ground (placed within a distance of three feet) and, upon command, the dog should ignore the food. (Please note: TDI does not permit the use of food/treats during actual therapy dog visits.)

Acclimation to Infirmities: This test demonstrates the dog’s confidence when exposed to people walking with an uneven gait, shuffling, breathing heavily, coughing, wheezing or other distractions which may be encountered in a facility.

Test 10: Supervised Separation
This test demonstrates that a dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary, and will maintain its training and good manners. Evaluators are encouraged to say something like, “Would you like me to watch your dog?” and then take hold of the dog’s leash. The owner will go out of sight for three minutes. The dog does not have to stay in position but should not continually bark, whine, or pace unnecessarily, or show anything stronger than mild agitation or nervousness.

Test 11: Say Hello
The TDI Certified Evaluator will test the willingness of each dog to visit a person and that the dog can be made readily accessible for petting (i.e., small dogs can be placed on a person’s lap or can be held, medium and larger dogs can sit on a chair or stand close to the patient to be easily reached.)

The dog must be able to work well around all types of populations, including children. The dog's behavior around children must be evaluated during testing. It is important that during the testing the potential therapy dog and the children are not in direct contact. This means the dog can only be observed for a reaction toward playing, running or in general children present at the testing site. Any negative reaction by the dog will result in automatic failure. Negative reaction means a dog showing signs of aggression.

Additional Rules for TDI Testing
1. Dogs must be tested on a plain buckle collar or harness. Training collars, training harnesses, halties, or any other corrective devices are not permitted during testing or visiting as a TDI registered Therapy Dog.

2. Greyhounds are not required to sit for tdi testing.

Note: Potential applicants are not required to take any therapy dog classes, which are not sanctioned by TDI.

Cayman's MySpace page

2008-09-07T20:50:00.000-04:00

Cayman has a MySpace page!
Check him out along with all his other weenie dog friends at: http://www.myspace.com/doxidoggybloggy
We are trying to "collect" as many dachshund friends as we can- it's amazing how many are out there! And their pages are so cute!

Bye Bye Buster Collar

2008-09-07T20:42:00.000-04:00

I removed Cayman's buster collar a little earlier than the vet recommended- like Saturday. And he hasn't made any attempt to lick or bite at his incision site from his neuter on Thursday and is obviously much happier without it. I felt so bad for him. He was trying so hard to play with his new squeaky soccer ball I bought him as a get well present and even had a hard time getting water with that buster collar on, I just had to. But anyhow, you will all be happy to hear that he is back to his old self again, hell, he was back to his old self the day after his surgery. He is quite the little trooper. Since he is feeling and acting like his old self again, we are definitely taking him to the doggy park next Sunday.

We are starting to work at home with him for his CGC certification (more on this later) so he can be a therapy dog. One of the test require him to do a "down/stay" the distance of a 20 foot lead. So I went out and bought one and took electrical tape to make off each foot on the lead. This way while he is training, we can accurately see how many feet he is able to remain in a "down/stay" before getting off his mark. I tried it out in the house since we have a really long hallway and he did it! All 20 feet! But of course today when I tried it outside, he was much too preoccupied in running in the grass then flopping down to sun himself then running off again in the time it took me to wind 20 feet of leash up in my hand. Silly dog. Definately feeling better!

Fun Dachshund Stuff

2008-09-06T01:36:00.000-04:00

New Dog breeds Not recognized by the AKC, CKC or any other KC

Bloodhound + Labrador: Blabador, a dog that barks incessantly.
Collie + Malamute: Commute, a dog that travels to work.
Collie + Lhasa Apso: Collapso, a dog that folds up for easy transport.
Deerhound + Terrier: Derriere, a dog that's true to the end.
Great Pyrenees + Dachshund: Pyradachs, a puzzling breed.
Irish Water Spaniel + English Springer Spaniel: Irish Springer, a dog fresh and clean as a whistle.
Labrador Retriever + Curly Coated Retriever: Lab Coat Retriever, the choice of research scientists everywhere.
Newfoundland + Basset Hound: Newfound Asset Hound, a dog for financial advisers.
Pekingnese + Lhasa Apso: Pekasso, an abstract dog.
Pointer + Setter: Poinsetter, a traditional Christmas pet.
Spitz + Chow Chow: Spitz-Chow, a dog that throws up a lot.
Terrier + Bulldog: Terribull, a dog that makes awful mistakes.

DID YOU KNOW?

-Queen Victoria’s husband, the German Prince Albert, brought Dachshunds to England in 1839, and presented one to his new wife, a dog that she named Dash.
One of the queen’s dachshunds buried at Windsor Castle has a six foot monument atop his grave. The inscription reads:
Here is buried Deckel
Deckel
The faithful German Dachshund of Queen Victoria
Who brought him from Coburg in 1845
Died August 10, 1859
Aged 15 years.

-Gergweis, Germany is known as the Dachshund capital of the world. Tourists can rent dachshunds by the hour for walks.

-The Dachshund is the only recognized AKC breed that can and does hunt above and below the ground.

-Dachshunds are eligible to enter more AKC performance events than almost any other breed. This includes agility tests, earth dog tests, field trials, obedience trials, and tracking tests.

-Standard dachshunds weight sixteen to thirty-two pounds. Miniatures are eleven pounds or less. A dachshund whose weight falls between eleven and sixteen pounds is affectionately known as a tweenie.

-A number of well-known people have had dachshunds. They include artists, John Everett Millais, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol and David Hockney; screen stars Clark Gable, Christian Slater and John Wayne. Newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst placed a tiny ladder and slide in the swimming pool at San Simeon in case his favorite dachshund, Helen, fell into the pool.

LOVE FROM ABOVE
Jillian McVickar, 15, of Boston, Massachusetts, wrote the following poem to celebrate her love for Oscar, her miniature dachshund.

One gaze from his pleading soft brown eyes, and I knew compassion.
One touch of his silken, dappled coat and I felt comfort.
One sound of his courageous bark, and I was protected.
One kiss from his sandpaper tongue and I knew friendship.
One wag of his loving, gentle tail and I saw happiness.
One moment of his unconditional love and I felt God’s grace.

DACHSHuND QUOTES

When rejected by his father he became industrious and motivated; when rejected by his mother he became proudly independent; when rejected by his siblings he became deeply compassionate; but when rejected by the family dachshund he became a complete nut case.
-from a case history of Sigmund Freud
The secret of architectural excellence is to translate the proportions of a dachshund into bricks, mortar and marble.
-Sir Christopher Wren
Man, I have been taught, was made in God's image but the dachshund, I have come to believe, was made in God's spirit.
-Solomon

David wants his dachshund back? Over my dead body!
-Goliath

Man who buys Pekinese requires great status. Man who buys dachshund acquires great status.
-Confucius

Dachshund Quotes
"Nothing will turn a man's home into a castle more quickly and effectively than a dachshund."
-Queen Victoria
"You say my nose, sir, reminds you of a dachshund? That is the first flattering remark anyone has made of it."
-Cyrano de Bergerac
"Wake me up as soon as you have the dachshund housetrained."
-Rip Van Winkle

W.Y.D Contest for September

2008-09-04T20:44:00.000-04:00

How freaking cute is this print? Its the prize for this month's drawing on "Who's Your Dachshund?" blogspot. This beautiful 5x7 print was graciously donated from KerryBeary - The Retro Modern Day Pop Shop. She owns three dachshunds of her own and wanted to share the love after spotting two of her furry friends lying on the ground, nose to nose, being adorable. The entry was easy enough, just adding the link button to their site and sending an email with pictures of Cayman. I really, really would love this print! I hope I win! Winners are announced October 1st. Cross your fingers, and if you can manage to click the link button with your toes (seeings how your fingers are all tied up at the moment) then check out more dachshund adorableness on their site!

Cayman Gets Castrated

2008-09-04T19:15:00.000-04:00

Today was the big day. Cayman got neutered (sorry ladies, this little man if off the gene pool market now). Dr. Bradley, his vet, said he did really well and recovered nicely from the anesthesia. He was so happy to see us when we went to pick him up but looked miserable at the same time with his buster collar preventing him from licking the surgical incision. So now for the next 10 to 14 days, he is on restricted exercise (which is going to be difficult when Roxy and Zoey get in a playful mood). I also have to keep checking on the incision site at least twice a day for the next two weeks and make sure its kept clean and dry. If I notice any excessive swelling, redness, or foul discharge or if he seems to continue to be in pain or have vomiting or diarrhea or fever then I have to take him back in to the vet.

He was prescribed Carprofen for pain and inflammation which I can give to him starting tomorrow morning. In the meantime, we are keeping him calm and quiet as possible and letting him enjoy his 'get well' presents- a woolly soccer ball squeaky toy and a bag of all natural, human grade Bac'N' Cheez mini biscuits by Old Mother Hubbard (the sister company to the Wellness brand dog food he is on now). Get well soon my wittleman!!

Now to see how great my pet insurance is. I signed up for Pets Best pet insurance last month and this will be the first claim I am filing since obtaining the policy. I had Dr. Bradley fill out all the required information on the claims form and I got a copy of my receipt showing how much I paid ($219.17... eek!) and how much I am claiming. So far I am doing everything as instructed. I just hope they don't hassle me. So many insurance companies have that issue. What they cover is excellent and the rates are good but its the ease of filing claims and getting a timely reimbursement that suck. So here is my first experience with the company- let's hope its a good one!

Beach Trip

2008-09-01T07:38:00.000-04:00

Random Pics of Cuddle Time

2008-09-01T06:54:00.000-04:00

Cayman's First Beach Trip

2008-09-01T06:29:00.000-04:00

I have always wanted a little beach buddy of a dog and when I got Cayman, I had big dreams of him being that perfect beach dog-one that would not be afraid of the water, dig in the sand, and chase our daughter down the beach. That's another reason he got the name Cayman...like the Cayman Islands- the perfect name for the perfect beach dog. Well, Cayman has proved once again that he is everything I have always wanted in a dog. He's loyal, intelligent, lovable and is now my official beach buddy.

He loved it! As soon as his feet hit the beach he was running around chasing bits of sea grass that had washed up in the past storms, digging in the soft sand, and even wading into the water chasing mangrove seedlings and leaves. It was awesome! And when he wasn't out playing, he was happily snoozing under our beach canopy in a hole he dug himself.

The only incident we had was when Shaylee, our beautiful but very stubborn 2 year old, was told to stay away from the sand spur bushes, she continued to walk closer and closer and of course, Cayman followed. Nils, my husband, my mom and I wrestled with a wet and sandy Cayman to remove about eight sandspurs from his front paws. Poor baby! He did learn his lesson though and stayed far away from all the bushes and sea oat plants after that!

I can't wait for the next nice weather day where we can all go boating again and bring along our new little beach buddy.

Cayman Update

2008-08-26T20:07:00.000-04:00

I can't believe how big Cayman is getting! He is such an awesome little guy too and has just one more puppy education class at Petco before his big graduation. I plan on looking for some material with little graduation caps or something like that to make a little bandanna for him to wear for his graduation pictures getting his diploma. Be sure to check back, especially in about two weeks, for pictures!

So far in class he has learned "sit", "down", "stay", "front" (which is to sit front and center so you can put a leash on him or something like that), "leave it", "wait", "off", and how to loose leash walk without pulling or walking ahead of you. He's a good learner and is catching onto most of the commands really, really well. And he has proven he is an old pro at loose leash walking when we went on our first real walk, a whole block!

Recently I moved a chair into our bedroom in front of our bed so now Cayman has a perfect advantage to getting up into our bed. Last night he slept in our bed with us for the first time.

Another recent "goodie" is that Cayman has his very own booster seat in the car so he is level with the window and can see outside plus it has a hook where you can attach his harness so it adds a level of protection in the event we were ever to get into an accident. Alicia, our dog trainer and my friend put it aside for me when it went on clearance from $40 to $10 at Petco.

The research for making Cayman a therapy dog continues. It looks as though we will have to wait sometime and just keep working at the requirements, which are that of the Canine Good Citizen certification, or CGC, since we can not test time till he is a year old anyhow. So we have until April 19th, 2009 to master the CGC requirements.

Just For Fun!

2008-08-21T14:39:00.001-04:00

Homemade "Frosty Paws" Recipe- Healthier Alternative!

2008-08-20T22:13:00.000-04:00

I remember back in the day when I used to buy Purina's Frosty Paws for my very first dachshund, Ciji, during the summer months. Knowing what I do now about dog nutrition and what is actually in these and dog food in general, I would have made the healthy alternative versions of these cool treats back then too. Here's what they have in them followed by a healthier version you can make at home.


FROSTY PAWS® Original Frozen Treats for Dogs Nutritional Information Ingredients: WATER, DRIED WHEY, SOY FLOUR, ANIMAL FAT (PRESERVED WITH BHA AND BHT), DRIED WHEY PRODUCT, DRIED WHEY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE, VEGETABLE FAT, SOY LECITHIN, MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE, MONO-DIGLYCERIDES, CARBOXYMETHYLCELLULOSE, POLYSORBATE 80, POLYSORBATE 60, CALCIUM CARBONATE, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, FERROUS SULFATE, ZINC SULFATE, MANGANESE SULFATE, MAGNESIUM OXIDE, SILICON DIOXIDE, VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, NIACIN SUPPLEMENT, COPPER SULFATE, CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT, POTASSIUM IODIDE, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, AND FOLIC ACID. FROSTY PAWS® Frozen Treats for Dogs with Peanut Butter Nutritional Information Ingredients: WATER, DRIED WHEY, SOY FLOUR, ANIMAL FAT (PRESERVED WITH BHA AND BHT), DRIED WHEY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE, VEGETABLE FAT, SOY LECITHIN, PEANUT BUTTER SYRUP (PEANUTS, CORN OIL, SALT), MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE, MONO-DIGLYCERIDES, CARBOXYMETHYLCELLULOSE, POLYSORBATE 80, POLYSORBATE 60, CALCIUM CARBONATE, NATURAL FLAVOR, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, FERROUS SULFATE, ZINC SULFATE, MANGANESE SULFATE, MAGNESIUM OXIDE, SILICON DIOXIDE, VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, NIACIN SUPPLEMENT, COPPER SULFATE, CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT, POTASSIUM IODIDE, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID.

What makes Frosty Paws unhealthy? Well...
1. Animal Fat: since no specific animal was mentioned, these could be any kind of animal including "4D's- dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter"....eww.
2. BHA and BHT: banned from human use in most countries but still permitted in the US, possible human carcinogen, apparently carcinogenic in animal experiments...doesn't sound like something I want to feed my dogs.
3. Corn- anything. Corn is a high allergenic food in dogs. I try not to get anything that contains the word "corn" in the label.

So they are not that bad really, but if you could chose something healthier, wouldn't you?

Here's the recipe....

Ingredients:
32 oz. vanilla yogurt, organic if possible- plain yogurt even better for dogs with a weight issue
1 mashed banana or large jar of banana baby food, good source of fiber and potassium
2 T. peanut butter, organic if possible- low sodium even better
2 T. honey, organic if possible

Directions:
Blend all together and freeze in either 3 ounce paper cups or ice cube trays. Microwave just a few seconds before serving.

Or you could get really lazy like I have done and just stick a regular 6 or 8 oz cup of yogurt in the freezer and let them go town licking it out of the cup after it has been frozen solid.

So Long Canidae, Hello Wellness

2008-08-20T21:30:00.001-04:00

We have recently decided to switch Cayman from Canidae Life Stages dry dog food to Wellness brand since it is becoming more and more difficult to make it down to the only local pet boutique, which is still over 30 minutes away, that sells it whereas Petco sells Wellness, is closer to our house and is on my way to and from work. My timing could not have been better. Apparently Canidae changed its formula and its making lots of dogs really sick. All the complaints I have read about Canidae all occur around the same time as the new formula change and all consist of the same issues- diarrhea and vomiting (see the reports for yourself at http://www.consumeraffairs.com/pets/canidae.html ).

I don’t know exactly when the change in the formula was made ( I do know I purchased my last bag of Canidae around July 22) as part of the complaint is that Canidae did not announce it was changing its formula which could have added to the issue of digestive upset. I personally have not had any issue and I am down to maybe a week or so of Canidae left out of a 15 pound bag. Most pet food companies will tell you to go into a transition period of mixing your old food with the new food and usually that’s if you are switching brands but its just as important to do the transition when your current brand changes its formula. I can’t blame Canidae completely. It’s done amazing things for my parent’s beagle mix, Roxy’s coat. But I do find it a bit upsetting that such a reputable company would overlook such an important subject. Had these customer’s that have filed complaints been made aware of the change, they could have purchased a bag of the “new and improved” formula and mixed it with what they had left of the older formula. But the severity of the issues described in the complaints are enough to make me firm in my decision to switch and switch for good. As I said before, I still have some of the Canidae left over so I will be purchasing some Wellness brand tonight and doing the transition period properly.

Other than the recent complaints about the new formula, Canidae and Wellness are considered Five Star Premium dog foods (out of a six star rating), both are holistic; all natural; human grade; without by-products, wheat, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives. The only negative aspects of Wellness is that it contains canola oil as a source of linoleic acid in which manufactures argue whether or not its is a high quality ingredient and that it has some fillers such as rice bran and rye flour which are not necessarily bad, but considered much, much better than some of the fillers used by lower quality commercial dog foods. According to http://www.dogfoodanalysis.com/ that is the only “con” to the dog food. They also state that they “do retain some concerns with the overall meat content of the food” since it does not have as many meat sources as some other foods, making it a Five Star grade rather than a Six Star rated premium food which is fine since I already supplement my food with canned dog food and fresh boiled organ meats.

Wellness also carries a line of canned dog foods, treats, and biscuits under the name Old Mother Hubbard as well.

Cayman's New Collar

2008-08-12T22:16:00.000-04:00

Cayman finally out grew his first collar. This evening, after our second puppy training class with Alicia at Petco, I purchased this cool collar. Its kinda hard to tell from the pictures- but its aqua (my favorite and Cayman's signature color), blue, grey, tan, brown and navy striped (the brown looks a bit like violet doesn't it?) I think it looks quite stunning on him and still matches his harness and leash which are the same color aqua. The flash (and a wiggly puppy) made it tough to get a decent picture so hopefully I will be able to get a better one later on. Hey, I just noticed how incredibly shiny Cayman's coat is in these pictures- glossy!

Vaccination and Other Paperwork Keeper

2008-08-12T22:00:00.000-04:00

Having a dog means having more paperwork than you probably know what to do with. In my case, it meant trying to cram all of it in one of those paper envelopes that has a flap where you record vaccination and other medical history. With all the papers and brochures I had, I was tearing mine at the seams. So I got this great idea of using one of those filing folders for checks. I then was able to label each of the pockets for things like "vaccinations", "training", "meds" and "vet receipts". I even got a different color for each of my pets- Cayman got aqua, Zoey got pink, and our cat got purple. Now when I take any of my pets to the vet or something, all their paperwork is not only together, but also organized. I got these file folders at Walmart for about $5 a piece. Its cool because it even has two business card sized pockets of the back where I put their vet's business card. I suggest everyone with a pet- dog or cat- try this out!