Happy New Year

Christmas was a hoot this year. I got to play with my friend Micah, whose energy is boundless. He ran and ran around the yard, and I chased him too! What a blast. He's way younger than me, but it was so much fun to try to catch him that I didn't even care if it hurt a little. Of course by the end of the day my butt was kind of sore, but it was worth it!

Mom and Dad's family were all there. They brought piles of presents and lots of food.

See all that stuff on the table? I didn't get any of it. Dad did give me a little hunk of beef later. I love holidays. I always get something. I'm always hopeful. You know, people should be better at hoping for blessings too. God always does wonderful things for those who trust Him to do stuff. If we don't trust Him, He waits until we do. Me, I'm going to remain hopeful forever. 'cause I know my Mom and Dad, and I know God. The special treats are always available!

Christmas Wisdom

Now that Mom has started typing for me again, I can bring you some Christmas wisdom (sorry, I just can't seem to get my paws to work on her computer keyboard).

We all need to remember what Christmas is all about. It is NOT about dog treats stuffed in a stocking. (I like that of course). It's about forgiveness. Yes, half the time I'm preaching to the choir, but Christmas is all about forgiving people. It's why Jesus came!

Many years ago, Mom had a neat dog that could talk. (Not like me,but close). His name was Rex and he spoke to her Uncle when he came to the back door with "Hi, Rich." Special dog, huh?

Soon into the family Christmas celebration, Mom's cousin Chuckie accidentally caused the dog to be drowned in the river. Mom was devastated. Did she hold a grudge? No, she forgave him. Important to do. The incident stuck in her heart to this day, but she never ever said anything bad about Chuckie's mistake.

I have to forgive RileySue a lot around here. I want to bite her, but most of the time I just ignore her. She does bite me on occasion, not too much. Anyway, I forgive her because she's a Diva and has very little manners. So my advice today is please forgive everyone this Christmas. It's Jesus' bottom line reason for the season!

Finally- Mom helps me with the blog!

You know, this waiting around for Mom to help me do a blog is annoying.But I just don't have fingers to type with: she has to do it for me. She's been so busy lately that I was beginning to think she'd never get going on this again.

It's been cold here in North Idaho lately. Now, I have a warm fur coat, but sometimes the cold lulls me to sleep. When I'm so rummy when I wake up that
Mom has trouble getting my attention.

And speaking of attention, what's up with RileySue getting the meat treats every meal? Apparently she has to take a pill all the time now and Mom hides it in a piece of meat for her. Hey! What about me? She stabs me at meal time with those diabetic syringes. I say unfair! Give me the meat too!

I've tried stealing it, but Mom always stops me. Life is so wrong sometimes. I have a perfect garbage gut, and RileySue is an over-sensitive-gotta-throw-up-often kind of doggy. So she gets the meat. Humpf. Jeepers.

Good thing I love my Mom.

Doggy Thanksgiving

Today was a really fun day for me. We had all sorts of company- our daughter Dana's boyfriend brought "Dutch," a very cute
Beagle. And I mean CUTE! I got a little excited and wore myself out chasing him around the yard and house. But it was worth it. He's a cute little guy. Oh, that's right I'm a boy dog too. Sorry. oops.

Then there was Micah. He's always fun- we chased each other around for quite a while before Dutch got there.

Of course Riley Sue wasn't in the chasing mood, but even she tried to have a good time for a very short few seconds. She's kind of anti-social. At any rate, Thanksgiving this year was great fun. The humans sat around playing a game called "Catch Phrase" - even Mom played for a while too. She NEVER plays games. Must have been the brain bleed that altered her personality or something. That's ok, I think she had a good time.

So here I am, my butt is hurting so I'm just lying around on the floor, trying to stay out of trouble. You should have seen us all trying to eat together. Interesting. 4 dogs all being fed at once. Where was Cesar Millan when we needed him? I ate mine perfectly. Riley finally got the program. Micah and Dutch kept stealing each other's food. Really funny to watch. They both have great noses and could smell the turkey in the kitchen. Both are bigger beggars than me and THAT's quite an accomplishment.

Family is so important, you know. Getting along is important- and having fun is part of it all. I'm so glad this family loves dogs and each other. They don't get uptight over stuff- so it makes the evening pleasant.
And someone please tell Dana's friend that everyone likes him.
What a great time we had today!

Spa Day

So here I am after a day at the "spa." My groomer (Bark 'R Boutique in Spokane www.barkrboutique.com ) added a bunch of new services and boy am I happy about it. Margaret rubbed sugar into my dry skin. Wow that felt good. Being a diabetic makes my skin really dry, so all that pampering made me feel wonderful. Ok, that stuff is normally for girls, but having someone massage my skin felt grrrrrreat!

Then there was the toenail clipping with a dremel tool, and teeth brushing. I really hate my teeth brushed but I do know it's supposed to be good for me. snarl. Then Mom bought me a new collar, which looks pretty snazzy. All in all it was a good day to be gone from home.

You know, both dogs and humans need pampering. Dogs especially need regular grooming and/or a "spa treatment." People should do the same or they start smelling like us dogs. I've been told that I stink sometimes, but you should smell some humans...wow...knock me down with the odor. At any rate, a spa day for everyone is always a good idea.

Interesting Experiences

So here I am, jammed in the doggy door to the garage, with a blanket stuck to my head. And it almost looks like I'm stepping out of Heaven into reality (all that bright light and stuff on my nice white fur). When I saw the picture I thought I must be losing it. But maybe not.

You know, we dogs have an uncanny knack for knowing things that you humans tend to miss.Did you know that Great Danes, for example, were once thought of as extremely spiritual dogs who could detect the presence of demons? Yep. My Mom's Newfoundland, Joshua could do the same. One day he paced in front of the television until she turned the channel to "Patton." Then he settled down and went to sleep- but the original channel was set to "Stepford Wives." Smart dog, I say.

I pretty much get along with everyone most of the time but there are a few people I don't care for. They just give me the heebie-geebies. It's kind of funny, but my Mom's friends who were once criminals or cops,and some Christians and relatives, seem to be fine around me. Others, not so much.

One night I was so worried about intruders that I laid down in front of the door! There were police all over the front yard with their flashing lights- and I just didn't want to take the chance, so I took my nap in front of the door. Let them come over the top of me. Good luck, I say. There is always more to a situation than you might think. The spiritual reality is pretty normal for us. So enjoy the blanket on my head and the bright light in the background, and know that it's because that's where I live most of the time: in a different realm.

Mom's Funny

Well, Mom is back to "normal", at least 99% of the time. But I have to tell you, she's a riot.

A few days ago she took me to the grocery store with her. I'm pretty sure she forgot I was in the car,'cause she was gone a really long time. She apologized to me, and said something about forgetting something or another. My legs were crossed from having to go pee, but other than that it was ok.

She told me that a few days after her hospital stay she put face cream in her hair. I didn't get to see that, but it sounded like something out of an old slapstick comedy routine. (Don't tell her I said that, ok?)

She put the paprika on a shelf by the telephone instead of in the cupboard where it belonged. Pretty comical that no one in the house noticed it there. When her brain came back, she moved it.

Of course, the people in charge of the house while she was "out" put all the bowls in the wrong cupboard. They also melted one of the plastic bowls in the dishwasher. It went from round to oval in one easy swipe. She had to fix those little things too. So, see? She does have more than one brain cell.

All in all, she is doing very well. Her brain is being restored and she only ties her shoes wrong every other day instead of every day. She's getting there. :)

Whatta Week this has been!

Well, Mom had a brain bleed...no, I mean a real one!

You know Dad's just not as good at giving me those shots as Mom is. She gets it right in the correct spot everytime. Dad, not so much. I think he jams it in there just to bug me. It makes me squeal.

So, for you crazy folks, it was quite the mess. She had to go to the hospital because she started to get aphasia (ephagia). Don't ask me how to spell it, I just know she had it. She could spell it, but she couldn't tell you what was happening. ??? She only knew she had something awful.
She told her friend and got some help quickly, so it wasn't too bad.
It could have been way worse.

As it is she's a little scattered these days. She isn't an invalid, but she does have her moments. Complete lockdown. It's very entertaining.

I definitely appreciate her when all is said and done- she's my friend. I don't want anything to happen to her.

Taking Care of Business

As you all know, I'm diabetic. Every morning at around 4 something, Mom gets up and gives me my shot with some breakfast. Every evening about 12 hours later, she gives me my shot with dinner. she is really faithful about it. I know she's helping me, even though sometimes it really hurts. She always takes care of business.

There are a lot of people who can't do that much work for even people, let alone an old dog like me. So I thought I'd ask you this- if a family member of yours got sick and needed shots everyday, would you do what was necessary to preserve their life?
What about an animal? If it was a normally healthy pet, would you help them or just put them down because it was inconvenient?

Life is full of unexpected turns. If humans don't help each other, or even help their pets, then there is a heart issue that needs to be addressed. The Bible says that the "tender mercies of the wicked are cruel; but the righteous (good) man takes care of his animals." If people can't take care of their pets, then they probably can't take care of each other either.

As a pet myeslf, I think that love is a two-way street. If Mom takes good care of me, then I will be there for her. Of course if a burglar has treats, he might get the TV before I bite him. That's fair, don't you think?

Too Hot In North Idaho

Wearing a fur coat is not good when it's 90 degrees outside. RileySue and I have stayed pretty much in the garage today where it's shady. Hot, but shady. Even when Mom went outside to water the plants, we just could't bring ourselves to go outside and walk with her. (Pant)

Today I heard on the TV that a Navy medic made a bomb threat against a high school. That would be like my vet making a bomb threat against a dog breeder. ??? What's the problem? What was going through his head?

He was only 22 years old (a little over 3 years old in dog years- pretty young). You know, young dogs ahould always get exercise, discipline and affection according to Cesar Millan. I think this kid probably got the exercise and discipline( well at least in the military you get that), but he obviously didn't get any affection as a puppy. I mean kid.

I think you humans need to watch out for that while raising your children. Don't forget to show them a lot of love and that life matters. It is precious and important- otherwise they could grow up aggressive. And of course then you'll have to retrain them behind bars. Not a good plan.

Peace and Quiet

At last everyone has gone home and the house is quiet again. Mom has had company since June pretty much nonstop. She has been ok with it, but you could tell she was freaked out about the dirt that everyone tracked through the house. RileySue seemed a little stressed too. Then there was me- I LOVE company. I get more pets and my friend Jerome sneaks me pieces of meat from his plate. I really like that.

I heard the other day that people are all angry over a man in our area who shot a grizzly mother who was coming after his children. Is that a little weird? I'm a herding breed myself, and I'd defend my family so why can't he? I love my cousins of other species, but if you mess with my family, I'll bite you. (No, I'll take you out). It's sad that he had to do it, but when it comes to family or danger, I'll chose my family.

One of Mom's friends had a black bear come through his living room window one night and he had to shoot it. Now my Mom loves bears, but if one comes through the window, it's time to act because it means they're not thinking normally. Most bears avoid people- unless something is wrong or like the grizzly it had cubs.

Now since I wasn't there I don't know if the man over-reacted (humans do that a lot, I've noticed) or whether an attack was imminent. But since both humans and bear were defending their young, I'd have to go with the human on this one.

Exercise in the Evening

Mom has been a little busy lately, so she hasn't had the time to take me on my walks. So yesterday when Keisha the malamute dropped by, I decided to take her home myself. Ok, I mean, I chased her home at full speed. Darned near gave myself a heart attack running that hard. But it was great fun!

Dad called me back after I got her home. I really wasn't going to stay, I just needed to blow off some steam.

You know, people are really a lot like dogs. If they don't get exercise, they get all lethargic and puffy. But if they'd just get out and move, they'd feel much better.

I even decided to talk a short spin over to our neighbor Madeleine's house the other day when a cat walked inside her fence. I came right home, honest. And no, I didn't eat the cat, I just chased it. And it wasn't HER cat, so it was a good thing I took care of it for her. See how everything always works out for the good?

So you humans, need to get out more and get some good runs in. I know Mom will eventually get back to taking me out with her. Until then, I'll try not to make the neighbors mad at me.

Dog Fights

Yesterday a couple of dogs got loose in our neighborhood and had everyone all riled up. There was a lot of barking and snarling all over the block. RileySue and I were just excited, as we thought maybe one of them was going to come and play. No such luck. Mom couldn't even catch Keisha the malamute so we could say hello.

Later in the evening, our friend Tom came over with Franklin, a Boston Terrier mix. He's so cute. Chunky and stout, all black and fearless. RileySue was going to chomp him. She's three times his size, but for some reason she thought he was a threat. You could tell she was about to take him out, so Mom had her put outside. It's that watchful eye she has to make sure no one gets hurt. She doesn't allow dog fights in her territory.

You humans shouldn't allow dogfights either. I heard one on the television last night that was pretty pointless. A bunch of people standing at podiums while barking and snarling at each other. They all said their plan was the best for our nation, but no one really said anything. It was more of a personality barkfest. My mom would have shut them up and sent them outside.

Victim to Victory

I overheard a new story this morning that really got me excited. You should hear this:
A lady who was brutally kidnapped by Somali terrorists went back to Somalia to help the people! Now THAT's what I'm talking about. Victim to victory.

You know, dogs have the same things happen to them- they get abused or abandoned and the dog catchers pick them up. They get stuck at a shelter where a great percentage of them are put down. But if people would take them home, work with them, they would be the best friends ever. I know because that happened to me. I was a victim, but I have victory.

People can do the same. You can turn your situation around by helping others. You can face the problem and it will flee from you. I am so glad that lady got the guts to go back to the place where she felt fear and turned it all around. You can do it too!

A "Peace" of Advice

It's been a little more peaceful around here the last couple of days, since half of the company went home. Mom's still busy, but it has been more quiet. I actually like the company. I love the pets and treats.

It's really hot in our house in the afternoon. My fur coat seems to be a little excessive, and I don't sweat. Mom tries to keep cold water in our bowls, and always lets me sleep by the air conditioner in her bedroom, but out in the kitchen or living room it's nasty. How come we dogs can't take our coats off in the summer? Hey, Lord?

I'm feeling sad for a lot of humans. Their lives are like trying to find a room with an air conditioner. They are going through hard times and a lot of them don't have a Mom like mine to help them. Mom has a couple of new friends that are always sad. They have no other people in their lives that encourage them. (That's what dogs are for, by the way).

Humans are quite fragile. My advice of the day is for all of you to get a dog. (Shelters have lots of them available). But if you can't get a dog, then try to be a good friend to others. Hearts that are broken and lives that are shattered need you! Please help them have a little PEACE!

Company

We've had several guys staying at our house lately. I think Mom is overloaded. She's doing laundry everyday now, and since the vacuum broke, she had to borrow one from her friends. Huckleberry leaves all over the floor, branches stuck in the pant pockets, leaves on RileySue's coat, dirt, coffee spills, cigarette butts...she's not even yelled at anyone yet. Wow, that takes some self-control!

Me, I love the company. Austin, the teenager likes to pet me and I just love him. I'd like to sleep beside him, but since they've got all their junk on the floor there's no room for me to sleep there. He even plays with RileySue until she has to limp back to lie down by my Dad's chair.
He's great!

You know, humans need patience when dealing with other humans. I've noted that there are always places where people can get mad or complain. But I think God expects people to overlook some of those little things. An old friend of Mom's once asked "Is it a big e nough hill to die on?" And that's a good rule to remember.

With all these men in the house, Mom has her work cut out for her as she tries to spend her days writing, doing errands, trying to keep the house and cook. But with a little patience, she can keep going no matter what comes her way.It works for everyone, even dogs. If I got upset at everything Riley did, I'd probably give myself a heart attack. So I just ignore most of it. Easier on my blood pressure.

Rescued!

Wow, this has been an interesting weekend at my house! Thursday evening, a pretty little black and white terrier mix showed up at our doorstep. Her name was Maggie and she was gorgeous! Of course she tried to take me out when I sniffed her, but I'm used to that with my current housemate Riley Sue. What is it about females that they don't like a male checking them out? Sheesh.

Anyway, she stayed overnight in the back yard, and Mom found her Mom the next morning so she could go home. The thing is, rescue is important, and not just for dogs. Maggie was lost. She had been a pound puppy like me- and she was so new to her house that she didn't remember where she lived. So she was really scared and nervous. Mom and my Aunt Allison fed her, gave her water, walked her around the neighborhood, and brought her back home.They had compassion on her.

People need that too, you know. We had a guest this weekend, and she really loves to pet me. (I love that too). I think she needed me- and I needed her too. I love to give people my encouragement. I've heard it lowers their blood pressure to pet dogs or cats. Me, I'd rather chase cats, but that's just me. :)

Rescue is about action, not about talk. That Maggie could have been run over by a car or lost and picked up by the dog catcher. She was rescued by my family because they love dogs. Rescuing people requires action too- making friends, getting to know them (you don't have to sniff anything, you just have to show compassion). So love people and be a rescuer!

Dog Fights

Remember the other day when I said people are complicated? No kidding. I was listening to Mom's TV today and I heard about a people fight that probably needs to have some dog wisdom.

Now, I don't understand exactly all about that Congress thing. Two packs of people, always fighting and barking at each other. Then there's the President, which I assume is supposed to be pack leader. But they're all just barking. All barking and no leading. And I hear that they are fighting over the budget or something or another. For a dog it would be simple: keep the food and the doctor, mess with the rest.

When a dog stands around barking all the time, people get mad at us. I think people are getting mad at the barkfest in Washington too. Nothing gets done when the barking gets going.

When I bark too much, Mom snaps her fingers and I stop. Maybe if all of you people snapped your fingers, the barking in Washington would stop? I bet if you did it loud enough they'd pay attention. Verbal commands and a big loud SNAP! And definitely NO treats until they are calm and submissive.

The Marvel of Friendship

We've had a guest over the weekend, my friend Micah.(Mom and Dad's daughter-in-law's dog). He's a border collie mix, and way too smart for his own good. And he's still a puppy.

While I can play with him, he does wear me out. He's less than a year old and I'm almost 12, so he wipes me out right away. But he's a fun friend. We don't fight, even when he snitches my treat right out from under my nose. My other friend Riley bites when that happens. In fact, she's taken chunks of my fur if I happen to snag a treat she's left lying around. For some reason, Micah isn't built that way.

For dogs, behavior is a training issue. For humans, on the other hand, it's a choice issue. Mom and Dad have some great friends. They're all really good to me and I just love getting pets. And they are good to each other too. But I know of some people who are constantly trying to use one another or be nasty at just about anything. I've met some humans who are always having trouble with their "friends" or relatives or neighbors or co-workers. They either haven't been properly trained, or their choices aren't good ones.They seem to want everything in life to be their way, or they can't overlook the human problems common to all people. Even I don't get THAT choice, and I'm pretty spoiled. Those humans need to look at the heart, not the stuff on the surface!

Real friends have fun together, and they don't fight all the time. They can talk about anything without judgment or bad things happening. They can share a treat without causing an uproar. Oops, that one was about dogs, sorry. Like me and Micah. We can overlook the other's problems and just get along. I hope all of you have real friends that can share your life without harming each other!(That might be a real good lesson for that Congress-President thing too, by the way.)

Humans are sooooo complicated!

Great Days and Warm Weather

Mom is doing great today, so thanks everybody for your emails. Her situation all worked out (I knew it would). She always looks after me, even though I am diabetic, so I knew she would help that person overcome anything she might have done to annoy them. She likes to be a friend. If my Mom is your friend, you have good backup.

Today is nice and warm at our house. Although I think my fur coat is a little heavy for the weather, I do enjoy hanging around outside.

You can hear the bees in the trees and see the blossoms...I love sticking my nose in them. So far I haven't been stung. And haven't had any ticks or fleas either. Mom says probably I won't because my coat is too thick for the bee to penetrate, and she makes sure I have preventative for the other stuff. Hope so. My nose is kind of sensitive.

You know, humans sometimes stick their noses in the wrong place too and cause trouble. We dogs can get away with it because we're supposed to check things out with our noses. Humans, not so much.

At any rate,for all you dogs out there, watch out for bees, ticks, and fleas in this weird summer. And you humans, watch out where you put your noses!

What Would Cesar Do?

People run into trouble sometimes and I try to tell them, what would Cesar do? That's Cesar Millan, by the way, you know the "Dog Whisperer."

Now, I know people aren't dogs. But I'm pretty sure I can help them out of jams.

Take Mom, for example. She made a huge mistake this weekend and inadvertantly got something really wrong. And the thing is, part of it was because she tried to rush it. Part of it was because she didn't know the whole story. But it really bugged her. She wanted to go hide in my spot under the bush in the back yard (no way, Mom, I'm not moving). She thinks she hurt somebody.

Cesar is always telling people to have good "body language" and confidence with dogs. Being a leader is about moving forward with confidence- and I think Mom's confidence got shaken this last weekend. The challenge for her is to move forward and not give up.

Cesar is always telling people to forget about the past and live in the moment, because dogs do that- with a little help. Mom needs to do that. You do too. You can't unscramble eggs. If you have things go wrong, you just have to do your best to fix it and move on. Every day has it's dog fights, or bee stings, so just keep moving! Don't sweat the small stuff. (I don't sweat, by the way, but people do).

Take a page from us dogs: every day is a new day. Make it the best you can. Don't dwell on the past. Look forward to your next treat with confidence. That's what Cesar would do.

Do Dogs Go to Heaven?

The other day a friend of our family ran into someone who was giving every excuse in the book to not do something he was supposed to do- and his main excuse was that he had to spend time with his dog. grrrrrrrr. THAT dog will be in Heaven for being faithful. The human, not so much.

I love my family. They know I'm going to be there with them. There are some other people that talk about me (while I'm in the room, even) and say bad things like "dogs have no soul" and "they're just dogs...". Grrrr again. My Mom doesn't like that, she knows better. She bites, so that's not smart around her.

Do you think animals don't know God? If you read Job 12, it says that you can ask us about Him. But the Heaven question? Boy that's an easy one. Isaiah 11:6-9 says it all.

All the animals on the earth are just like the ones in Heaven. Jesus comes back on a white horse- no animals in Heaven, huh? There are LOTS of them! Even in Revelation there are living creatures at the Throne of God. What, people don't get to stand right by the Throne? Just living creatures? And how about the fact that donkeys, camels, sheep, and cows got to see the Birth of Jesus- a bunch of people were invited to see, but only a few of them came. Creatures are blessed.

I think since we show people all about faithfulness, loyalty, unconditional love,and all those things- there is room for us in Heaven. Romans 8 says all of creation groans waiting for its redemption. And we'll get it, too. So if you hear some human talking bad about us, just tell them to go lie down and be quiet. Or make them go outside with no treat. That'll teach 'em.

Sleeping Dogs and Cranky People

So here I am at rest behind my bush.

This is the most comfortable spot in the yard. Yeah, I know it's messy. But it's also true that I like to sleep and not be disturbed.
And if you can't see me, you're not as likely to disturb me. But when you do, I don't bite. I'm not snarly like some people. I just yawn and stretch and move forward to get my pets/treats. Emphasis on the treats request.

I've been noticing that some people when disturbed get cranky. Even Mom and Dad sometimes make faces when bothered while doing something else. I don't think they mean much by it, but it happens. They seem to always be willing to take care of whatever the interruption is without complaint, which I appreciate. I've interrupted them frequently and they've never been mad at me.

But I have some advice for those who get snarly- maybe you don't feel good or maybe you're busy and get interrupted, just be flexible and do what needs to be done without being nasty. No biting! Bad people! Sit! Be nice!

If I can do it from a deep sound sleep, so can you.

Dog Perspective

You know, people have a hard time remembering that we are animals. (You can tell by this blog, can't you?) But really, we are dogs, and we think like dogs.

Here's an example: I like to sleep in the back yard under a big bush. Even when it's raining. Why don't I sleep in the garage where it's dry? Because it's cooler outside. The garage gets stuffy and the cement floor is hard. Doesn't matter about the rain because I have an undercoat that rarely gets wet. So even if the top layer is wet, the undercoat is dry. Handy, huh? Mom, however, can't figure out why I like it outside in the snow or rain. Then she pets me and her hand gets all nasty from loose hair and wet junk. For people, cold days are an annoyance because they don't have a nice coat to keep them warm.

Dogs seem sort of like people because we have a personality. Yeah, we're not just a pretty face, we have feelings. We are also quite attached to our humans. So we seem like kids, but we mostly run by a different thought process. A kid would rummage through the cupboard for a snack. We'll take it right off the table if you turn your back. (The reason you should train both dogs and kids). I once stole a whioe plate of sliced turkey while Mom wasn't looking. Her fault for not putting it away, and training me to be more polite.
(Note: people think we're funny, so we can get away with things we shouldn't. Again, we're not people and we can get into trouble unless you help us out)

Her first Newfy stole french bread off the barbeque and meat too, when people weren't looking. Her fault for not training him properly and laughing at him. Not the dog's fault- we just operate by instinct. You have to help us out or we'll snag things that smell good.

Dogs also like to be around people and get pets. (Like the picture above. My friend Maddie (Mom's Grand daughter) is the best- she scratches and pets, and even combs my fur. I REALLY like her.

The thing is, we seem like you but we aren't. If you don't want an unruly kid, you have to teach them stuff. Same with us, but you hve to remember that we're descendents of wolves. We like packs, we need good strong leadership...oh, maybe even people need good strong leadership. But I hear people are more like sheep than dogs. D'ya think?

Who's the Alpha Dog?

Did you know that a dog that is quiet and sneaks up on you is far more dangerous than one that yaps its head off? It's because with a sneaky dog there's no warning. A yappy dog lets you know he's coming.

The same principle applies to people politics. There are all sorts of hidden stuff in the national legislation that has been passed over the last couple of years. Mom says some of it is going to cost a bundle: if employers cut off their healthcare to employees, or if homeowners have to pay an extra tax when they sell a home after 2013, or if the government bans all sales of drugs from Canada, stuff like that. Mom says those things will really cause a drain on our wallets. I understand that not very many people have been paying attention and it is going to sneak up on them. Well, I have a solution.

I say we use the canine method of curbing problem animals: bite them right on the collar. Whenever a dog gets too frisky in the pack, the Alpha dog hauls off and bites them right around the fur on their neck. Not hard, just enough to get their attention. It's a reminder of who's the boss. I think you people out there need to remind the government who's the real boss. They seem to think it's them. You should tell them the U.S. is "of the people, by the people, for the people." Somebody seems to have forgotten!

Dirty Paws

After my grooming the other day I was very handsome. But then I went back outside and laid down in the dirt. So of course, Mom saw that I had dirty black paws. I know it sort of bothers her that she spent $75 to get me all spiffed up and bam! in one minute I was dirty again.

Mom says that it happens to humans too. Like today she said that John Edwards the Senator is under indictment for using campaign money to fund a mistress. His paws are dirty. He looks all clean and nice on the surface, but really, there's a patch of dirt that he's been sleeping in.

Mom says that the people who spent all that money for his elections are probably upset today because of the dirt. Well I can recommend a great grooming place. They could scrub him down real good. And Mom says if he's found guilty they'd keep him inside all the time so he couldn't get dirty again. I think he needs that.

Dogs are different than people, though. When we're house trained we have to go outside sometimes. I think he's not very well house trained, because he goes outside too much. I hope they are able to keep him cleaner. People don't like all that dirt on their floors.

Haircuts

Today I got a haircut at Bark R Boutique in Spokane.Mom says I look really spiffy. I have to say, though, even though I had been there many times before, I was a little nervous at being left alone. They had to slide me across the floor into the cutting area. Yikes~

For anyone, even a dog, new things can be stressful. The people at the grooming place were very nice. John talked to me and petted me and tried to calm me down, but that being left without Mom was worrisome.

For people, new things can be really nerve-wracking. So I'd like to give you all a piece of advice: have a little faith. Don't make God drag you around like a wet mop. Really, He'll take good care of you.

See, once I got past the initial worry about being left, things leveled out and I had a great time. The worry was totally unnecessary. I just wasted my emotions for nothing.

After they got me all clean and handsome, I just waited patiently by the door until Mom came and picked me up. It was no sweat. And I had an adventure for the day- a fun one! And I feel soooo much better now. All that nasty matted hair is gone and I smell real good. Well, not as good as rotten meat, but good.

My friend Riley Sue is in the picture with me. Isn't she cute?
Now go out and do something FUN!

Lassie Come Home

My Mom told me once about an old TV show called "Lassie." It was about a big ruffed collie that was always getting lost, or saving someone's life. She said it was hard to watch because she kept crying.

Well last night she saw something else that made her cry- all the animals left homeless after the tornados in Missouri and Oklahoma. I was sad too because I know how it feels to be alone- but for them it was even more traumatic to be literally ripped away from their homes.

One little fella was thrown miles away and his paws were broken in the fall. He dragged himself home- it took him over 2 weeks to get back! Now that's perseverance. It's also fearlessness and hope.

You know, animals are generally very hopeful creatures, especially us dogs. I wish humans had that gift. Many of them lose hope easily and want to give up. I want to encourage you today- even if your heart is broken, there is hope. Even if it seems like everything has gone crazy upside down in your life and you've lost it all, there is hope.

If that fuzzy white dog can get home and get help, you can too. I know that God loves you with all His heart, so just keep going and He will get you where you need to be. Mom says Lassie always got back home no matter how bad the circumstances. So be like Lassie and come home. Be like that little white dog and keep going, because there is help waiting for you if you'll just not give up.

Cruelty or Discipline?

The other day I saw my friend Keisha the malamute riding on top of the neighbor's truck. According to my friends, he is now taking her to work with him, tied to the top of the tool box in the back of his pickup.When she is home, sometimes she is also on top of the truck. When she gets down, she runs around the neighborhood.

I'm kind of torn on this one. Mom never ties me up, ever. She expects me to obey her and stay in the yard or inside the fence. I try to do that, unless of course a cat runs across my field of vision (now that I have developed a couple of cataracts, I don't see them unless they run directly in front of me).

If Keisha would stay home, I don't think they'd have to tie her up. But one of our neighbors doesn't like any dogs but his own and always calls Animal Control on them. Which means Keisha is in danger not only of getting hit by a car, but of going away forever. So her owner ties her up. I wish they knew how to train her, because she is a real looker. Sleek, fast, beautiful.

Cruelty has a fine line. The rope that keeps her from running could also kill her if she happens to jump off the truck while tied. That bothers me. I've sniffed her and Mom has checked her out and she doesn't have any signs of abuse. But I still worry.

People are similar to Keisha, did you know that? Trying to control people often results in their destruction. People are better off free, with the ability to learn and grow. Whether it's the government or other people or relatives who try to control them, the lessons needed for maturity can't happen unless they are free to make the mistakes that will help them overcome their own problems.

Dogs need obedience training that is filled with discipline and exercise and compassion. People aren't much different. They need compassion, discipline , exercise, and understanding to help them move forward. Cruelty, on the other hand, or controlling behavior, never works for either.

People Obedience Training

When I got fixed, I didn't have the urge to wander off and have puppies with some loose dog anymore. But people don't seem to figure that out. What's up with that? Do they not get enough biscuits at their own house?

Take Arnold Schwartzenegger for example. The guy is rich. He's funny too. But now he's lost his wife and had a baby with someone in their household staff. I know a good spay and neuter clinic, but Mom says it wouldn't have helped him. It really helps dogs and cats. It can actually save lives.

But I think that dog psychology still might help someone like Arnold. No biscuit without obedience. No affection until he's calm and his chasing has stopped. No hunting aliens around the jungle unless the training is followed. No helicopters, no machine guns, no muscle shirts until "sit" and "stay" are learned.

What do you think?

Spring and all its glory

We live in North Idaho, and Spring is, uh, a roller coaster ride. Some days it rains, some days it hails or snows, and some days like today it's warm and sunny.

Today I snuggled in to my hip hole by the rose bushes and thought about what Spring really means. (Oh, sorry Mom, that means my fur will be covered with dirt, dried leaves, ants, and other assorted crud. But doggone it, I'm comfy there!)

Back to Spring. It's kind of a snapshot of life. Sometimes there are storms, like when I first got sick with diabetes and felt awful all the time. Sometimes the day is REALLY bad, like when my first family abandoned me and left me without any hope at all. Sometimes the good days come and it seems like all the bad is wiped away with the warmth of the sun. That's what I like- a reminder that life may be filled with problems, but eventually they all work out. Eventually Spring becomes summer.And it works that way in life too!

No matter what you are going through today, I'd like to tell you that it will all work out. Pretty soon everything will come around to a better day if you just have a little faith. Then you can go snuggle in your hip hole ( ok, I know, humans don't have those) and relax, knowing that the season has changed in your life. It's going to get better!

New Friends

One of the best things in my life is when I get to make new friends. Sure, I make some nervous when I run up and stick my nose in places that scare them, but that's because I know how to sniff out trouble.

But making new friends is one of the joys of living!

I've noticed that some people are skittish around new folks. I say, cut it out! Run toward the unknown, not away from it!

Let me use my neighbor's dog as an example. He is fearless because he's a puppy. Part shepherd and something else (maybe Rottweiler?), he's going to be a big guy when he grows up. So he intimidates people. But the first time I met him I wanted to play because I knew he was ok. Yes, we snarled a little, but it wasn't dangerous, it was playful. And we have had at least one romp together that was loads of fun! I know him now, and I know that he isn't a problem.

The only way you can make new friends is to get to know them. They may seem scary, but if you get to know them that can change. My Mom has a new friend that used to be a convict. She is writing a book about his life. He spent time in federal prison for drug trafficking and trying to run over a DEA agent. Was he bad? Yes. Is he evil? No. Does he need good friends? Absolutely. She has learned that he really is getting his life on to a good path. But most people would avoid him like a pit bull with foam on its mouth.

The only way to get new friends or help to change a life is to run forward in faith, not backwards in fear. A football team that only has good defense will never win the game because it's the offense that scores the points. So I say don't be afraid to meet new people and talk to others! You don't have to stick your nose on them like I do, but be friendly and see what happens. You'll be glad you did!

Easter for Animals

Hi everyone. Since Easter weekend is about redemption and new life, I thought I'd give some of my insights. Animals look forward to a day of redemption too.

One of Mom's friends once looked at her Newfoundland and said "hey, this one would feed a whole village." Yikes! It's hard to imagine for Americans that many of the world's cultures once thought of "pet" dogs as food sources. Even the really skinny ones!

In America, whole causes are built around saving pets from euthanasia. But the fact remains that many of my cousins die in shelters. I know that being inside of a shelter is frightening. There are cats and dogs and stinky cages and a constant din of noise everywhere. While the people who run the shelter are usually very nice, there is an emptiness that comes over the dogs who come in there. I know because that's what happened to me.

My owners couldn't take me to their new home. I don't know why and I don't understand, but they dropped me off at the shelter and I never saw them again. I felt abandoned and lonely. It was like being dropped in the middle of prison with no preparation. And I was surrounded by strangers.

Then one day this couple came in with a big black Newfy. They specifically asked for me! They said they read about me on the internet and wanted to take me home with them. So the shelter lady came and took me out of the cage and walked me into the lobby area. No problem. I took one look at Mom and knew they were my friends for life.

She bent down and scratched my ears and ran her fingers through my fur...I knew this was my home forever. After a short walk with my new housemate "Zeke," the shelter folks let me go home with them. And I have been happy ever since. I know that I am loved!

Point is, that this is Easter weekend. Easter is about redemption and the giving of life. Jesus came to save people, and give them His love. Animals, too need salvation. Won't you think about adopting a shelter pet? There are so many who need love and caring people to save them from death. They would be so grateful!

Destiny

This is an excerpt from Mom's new book- with my comment at the end. I really am smart, but some people seem to think all I do is sleep. Ok, I do sleep a lot. Mom says I chose all the wrong places to snooze. Like the hip hole that I dug by the roses bush in the backyard. The dirt is soft and cool, and there's built in shade- what more could I ask? Well, dog treats of course.
Enjoy her excerpt!

______

Excerpt from "The Dog Paw Chronicles" by © D. Faye Higbee 2011 published by PublishAmerica.net


Lipizzaners

His wobbly legs only held him up long enough to sway for a minute and then buckle. He fought his way back up on the narrow spindles. A black foal, freshly born, still wet from his mother’s birth canal. He was the tiniest package of miracle I had ever seen.

The little creature stumbled around his stall like a drunken sailor for several minutes until he finally got his “sea legs.” This funny little horse would one day bring audiences to their feet as he danced around an arena on his back legs. His black countenance would be transformed into white perfection, as the shaky past fell away into choreographed destiny. How fitting it was to see destiny play out in the Royal Lipizzan stallions. From the tears shed in a movie to tears shed in the stable in Vienna, that birth was a true miracle of redemption and destiny that I will never forget.

Comment by Red Dog:

Destiny is often created by miracles. By God’s hand the Lipizzan stallions were saved from annihilation. God saved your life, you saved my life. Our lives connect on a level far beyond what our eyes see. We don’t know, as we traverse this life, what lies beyond our present circumstances. But we are all destined for a purpose, whether to dance or to write. I hope that all the readers will find their portion of that destiny.

The Right Way

Mom learned her lesson! Yes! We went out yesterday and a little dachshund from next door got loose. "Scooter" ran like a crazy fool straight for me, barking it's little head off all the way. Her Mom tried to catch her, but she was running in her sock feet and the pavement was cold and uneven. Not good for humans to run in their socks.

Anyway, Scooter was hot after me, so Mom made me sit. THIS time she didn't get nervous or do anything to freak me out. I sat and did nothing. Scooter's mom caught up to her when she realized I was 4 time bigger than she was. Tee hee. It was funny. She stopped in midbark and just stared at me.

Her mom tried to let me sniff her, but as soon as my nose went near her, she erupted and went crazy. She whined and growled and squirmed and tried to bite me. Not very social, that one. Point is, I didn't do ANYTHING wrong. Cool, huh? Mom got the message this time and just had me sit. It worked. The other dog got in trouble, but I didn't. I was totally calm.

It was fun. I hope your folks take you for a walk and are calm. It really helps!

Fun and People-Walks

I've blogged before about taking your owners for walks, but there is one other component that happens on occasion: fun runs.
The other day we were walking around the neighborhood and my new friend the Shepherd mix ran away from his home to come and play with us. He's a very nice puppy (almost as big as me and still a puppy...woof! He's gonna be a big one). At the same time, one of those fuzzy little dogs was walking his owner across the street. Kind of a doggy traffic jam.

I wanted to play so bad, and Mom kept tugging on the leash, so I just slipped out of it. That's right, I literally took off the collar and ran like the wind after my friend. We had a great time! We ran and played and Mom couldn't catch us. Eventually she caught up to me, and the other dog owner caught up to him, so we had to stop. But it was great fun!

Tugging on the leash when you're walking a dog doesn't work when you do it wrong, as Mom found out the hard way. She should have made me sit. Instead she got uptight and worried about us fighting and started jerking the leash to try and pull me away. (We were't fighting, by the way, we were playing- big difference and she missed it!)
The only way to get away from her nervousness was to get rid of the leash.

I had a fun time, Mom got extra exercise, and everything worked out fine. But to you humans who get nervous- knock it off! Just a tap on the rump and a sit command will help take the nervousness down. Otherwise just let us play.

Famous

What's a famous dog, anyway? My Mom has a new book coming out at the end of the year called "The Dog Paw Chronicles." She has let me make comments on her life all the way through the book. She thinks I should be famous. But who really cares?

In all of our lives, the only thing that really matters is how we live it. I have tried to be a good dog. I think I've succeeded too, because I didn't eat any couches or shred any pillows. And I've only stolen food a couple of times (sorry Mom, you left it too close to the edge of the counter). Mostly I've tried to stay out of trouble and just be there for my Mom and Dad. They tell me they need me- I think scratching my ears makes them feel better when things aren't going so well.

Yesterday, for example, we went for a nice walk and passed by a really pretty pitbull. He is a really handsome dog, but for some reason he gives me the creeps. His bark is off. He doesn't bark just because he wants to or because he's nervous, he barks aggressively. I was able to use my body language to show Mom that we should stay away. None of the other dogs in the neighborhood bother me at all. In fact, I'd love to play with them! Mom noticed right away and steered us away from the problem. She really does need me!

For all you humans out there, try to live your life with caring and service to others. Love each other and be good to both people and animals.We all need each other!

Westminster Dogs

You're probably wondering what I've been up to. I've been waiting excitedly for the Westminster Dog Show. I kept hoping that one of my relatives, either a Golden Retriever (one of the most popular dogs in America), or a Great Pyrenees (the very best flock guardians around) would win. My Dad loved the black and white Landseer Newfoundland he saw in the show. Well, none of the large dogs got the working class trophy, as usual. Though the entrants in that group were some real lookers!

I was happy, however to see that a Scottish Deerhound named Hickory won Best in Show. It's really rare that any big dog wins. For some reason all the judges tend to favor those little yappy Scooby Snacks. We who are large think it's a shame that our marvelous bulk is generally ignored by the judges. At least Hickory was so gorgeous the Italian judge saw that she was perfect and gave her the big prize. Yay for him. Yay for her!

Several years ago it happened for a Newfoundland named Joshua. My owner cried, as her Joshua the Newfy had just died when she watched the show. He was apparently quite a wonder-dog. The one that won the big show was perfect too. But it's rare. Mostly those weird short things win.

I noticed that she was crying through the whole show last night too. I think she loves dogs so much that they all look beautiful to her. But she does root for the big ones. That's why she's a great Mom -- she cares about us.

At any rate, I recommend watching any of the big AKC dog shows when they're on TV. You can learn a lot about us and what kind of temperment we have, so that you can get the right dog. And they always have ads for us adoptable rescued dogs, so always remember us first. And maybe with a box of tissue beside you, you'll get through the whole thing without clogging up too much. Or not.

Every Day's a New Day

I am very glad January is almost over. It's been pretty busy at our house. Dad had a heart attack in the middle of the month. That was not cool. He was gone from home overnight while he recovered at the hospital. I had to stay in the hospital once. It was not fun. Hospital food is really awful, especially for dogs. Dad said his wasn't real good either.

I don't know why they give you food that is white or gray in color, expecting you to eat it. You know, the color of wet clay? No thanks. It has to at least look like food. And if it smells good, that's a plus too.

But I digress. I really missed Dad while he was gone. I would hate to lose him. He scratches my ears so nice. And he keeps that Riley Sue occupied so she doesn't drive me nuts with the ball thing. Border Collies and their ball fixation- sheesh.

You know, it's just an observation, but people don't seem to understand that life very precious. Every day is a new day, and every day is a gift. We don't know what will happen in the blink of an eye.

I remember the day I had to go to the hospital- I fell down while on our daily walk and started to shake. Mom got scared and took me to the vet, who said I had become diabetic. That little trip cost a lot, but Mom took good care of me. And now I feel great! I had no idea that I could have died. Life is short, but there are a lot of opportunities in each day.

Like the other day I got to meet a fiesty chihuahua. She thought she was really something. She snarled and growled, and pulled her owner around as if she was some big tough dog. She didn' realize that I could have smacked her down with one paw. So I just ignored her. But it was fun, you know. The look on that dog's owner was priceless- she was scared spitless of me. Ha! I had her fooled and I didn't even have to growl. She just looked at my size and thought I was ferocious. What a fun experience!

So anyway, please enjoy your life every day. You never know when something might happen.

New Year Comin'

Happy New Year everybody! So far it's been a blast (yeah I know, it's only 3 days into it). But two of those three days were bright and sunny on the snow. It was warm in the sunshine and just great for lying around. We went on our human walk and Mom stayed upright the whole time! I was proud of her.

Then we stopped off at the neighbors for a cup of coffee. While Mom chit-chatted, I explored their house. Guess what I found! Two cats! That was g.r.e.a.t.! I chased them under the bed in one room. I don't think they wanted me to lick them, but I would have, honest. I do love it when kitties run from me. It gives me a nice adrenalin dump. Then Mom made me come back to the kitchen. Short fun, but fun nonetheless.

Today is snowing again, and a tad too slick to walk around much. But it's such fun to see all that white stuff.

So as you can see, it's lovely here. I got to play snowshovel with my nose several times before it froze down so hard no one could stand up on it. I think it's a promise of a good year. All that white purity coming out of the sky. What do you think?