One Pibble's Wish

I Said I Would...

2012-02-10T18:20:00.002-05:00

... and I finally did. I now have my very own in-bread dog. Poor Oliver. But he's so good about stuff like this!

Why is she making me do this?

"Because I told my friends that you would let me."

Why am I letting you do this?!
"Now, that's the better question."

Not A Clue

2012-02-08T05:59:00.001-05:00

She had no idea it was there.

Until I told her. Then it was gone in a flash!

I'm Two Today!

2012-02-06T06:17:00.000-05:00

Well, actually, we don't really know when my birthday is, but this would be my grandma's birthday, so I decided to take it for myself! Now, I understand my grandma didn't really care for animals, but I have the feeling she would have liked me.

Okay, Ollie, give me that keyboard. There's nothing more dangerous than a dog who can type.

Yes, it's true your grandmother didn't care for animals. She tolerated them, though, including a monkey who made its way into our lives for a very brief few days. Don't ask.

Growing up, we always had animals around the house, from bunnies and baby birds who were abandoned by their moms in our backyard to a not-so-feral cat who made itself right at home living in our yard. (I might have made it easier for the kitty by feeding and providing shelter for it; I later found it a nice home.) Along with the occasional wildlife, we had gerbils, a parrot, countless dogs, and before we were born my parents had horses. So she could claim she that she didn't like animals, but that was a battle she obviously wasn't going to win!

We settled on this day for Oliver's birthday because he was born somewhere around this time of year, give or take a week or two. His canines came in around July (a reliable way to peg the six-month-mark for a dog), so counting backward, this is as good a day as any. And, since Ollie is a gentle and loving dog, why not honor my mom, a gentle and loving woman, by celebrating his birthday on the anniversary of her birthday?

Happy Birthday, Oliver!

This is one thing your grandmother never would have tolerated. Oh, no-ho-ho.

This is the face that melted my heart two years ago!

And continues to melt it to this very day!

Happiness Is...

2012-02-02T06:13:00.004-05:00

Possessing magical powers to will cookies from above...

rumpydog Features PAWS Volunteer! (Part 2)

2012-01-28T07:20:00.004-05:00

It's here, Part 2 of rumpydog's interview, featuring... me!

I'm so excited that Rumpy did these interviews to showcase the importance of volunteering. And we hope they help to ease any fears or preconceived notions people have about shelters. Read part 1 here, with a friend who volunteers on the feline side. I also hope you'll visit my other blog, ScratchMyBelly, which features the many dogs at PAWS.

If you're not familiar with Rumpy, he's a very handsome Malamute who was found wandering the streets when his human Jen rescued him. No one claimed this beautiful boy, so he's now happily living the high life with Jen, another rescued dog DeDe and several rescued kitties. Rumpy has both a blog and a popular Facebook page. He's quite a character!

Enjoy the interviews!

rumpydog Features PAWS Volunteer! (Part 1)

2012-01-27T06:34:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited because my good friend Kevin was interviewed by rumpydog today! Kevin talks about his experiences volunteering at PAWS, the shelter where I volunteer. He and his wife work with the cats and have been volunteering for years - they're absolutely terrific!

They also have a great and very popular blog called Animal Shelter Volunteer Life which focuses on the wonderful cats and kittens at PAWS. Check it out - the photography is beautiful, all taken by Kevin.

Tomorrow's interview with Rumpy will be from a dog volunteer's perspective. Gosh... who can that be... :)

If you're not familiar with Rumpy, he's a very handsome Malamute who was found wandering the streets when his human Jen rescued him. No one claimed this beautiful boy, so he's now happily living the high life with Jen, another rescued dog DeDe and several rescued kitties. Rumpy has both a blog and a popular Facebook page. He's quite a character!

Enjoy the interview - we hope it encourages you to volunteer at a local shelter!

Lucy Up Close

2012-01-25T19:26:00.001-05:00

No reason, just because she's cute.

Mr. Chewy - Rocks!

2012-01-21T10:22:00.000-05:00

Recently, my pal Frankie told me about MrChewy, a website where you can purchase dog and cat food and treats, plus other supplies at great prices. Well, I was skeptical, because so many sites are out there touting the same claim of more for less. But...

I decided to check it out myself. I asked my assistant Lucy to bring up the MrChewy site (she's very good with her nose on the touchpad, much better than the other dogs in the house):

Let's see...www.mrchewy.com...press enter... Okay, mom, got it!

Then, we looked up the price of the food we buy - Wellness Super5mix. We learned that it is $11.55 a bag less through MrChewy than at our local Petco!! If you're like us, and you buy at least two bags a month, this really adds up - to the tune of nearly $280 a year! That's quite a savings.

Now, with five dogs, there's nothing worse than running out of food. Do you know what it's like having five dogs look at you like you're a pork roast? It's not a good feeling.

Well, thanks to MrChewy, this will never happen again! Because... And this is the best part... MrChewy provides free shipping for orders over $49, and you can set up an automatic delivery schedule which you can adjust or cancel at any time.

Let's see... free shipping, set a schedule, save $11.55 a bag... What's to think about?! I set up an auto-delivery schedule for two bags every four weeks. Now, I don't have to worry about running out of food or making last minute trips to the store anymore. No more dogs looking at ME like I was dinner because their bowls were empty! More smiles on all faces!

I {heart} MrChewy!

For my first order, I received an unexpected promotional discount of an extra $14.40. So, for my very first order with MrChewy, I saved $37.50! Hey, that's half a tank of gas... I'm a very happy doggy mom. Thanks, Frankie, for sharing this info with us!

I Really Am Comfy... Really

2012-01-16T06:22:00.004-05:00

Sometimes, a lap is eclipsed by the tummy. But the smart dog makes do.

I really am comfortable... no, really, I'm fine.

Oliver won't give up an opportunity to lay on a lap, even if it's not in the most comfy of positions. He really is a silly dog.

A Bit of Fabric; A Lot of Love

2012-01-15T10:46:00.001-05:00

WHN at Dachsies with Moxie is organizing a very special quilt for Sandra of Houston Pittie Pack. Of course, Miss Charlie wanted to make sure part of her favorite blanket was included.

You have to understand that wherever this blanket is, Charlie will be. On the floor, on the bed, on the chair... Charlie will be there. It can be on the roof. No kidding, and we have a Dutch colonial - that's quite an angle.

Now, keeping in mind that Charlie definitely doesn't like to share her blanket with the other pooches in the house, it's very interesting how excited she was to share a piece of her blanket for this project.

Ahhh, I didn't want to sit on your stinky blanket anyway!

When I told Charlie about the quilt being made for Sandra, she couldn't wait. She grabbed the scissors, careful not to run with them, and begged me to cut a square to send to be included. Then, she followed me around with the square in her mouth until I finally mailed it off to WHN! What a pushy dog!

C'mon, ma, let's get this thing in the mail!

Needless to say, I'm very proud of this little girl with the funny ears.

Is that the postman? YAY!

We can't wait to see the finished product!

We got an Award!

2012-01-14T10:04:00.004-05:00

Our Most Handsome friend Teal'C has presented us with the Liebster Blog award. In German, this means Favorite Blog. Can you imagine! We're someone's favorite!

Teal'c is from Sydney, Australia, so he's romping the beaches and enjoying summer right now as we shiver from the cold in the middle of winter. Thank you, Teal'c for thinking of us for this award! It warms our heart!

My job is to pass this along to five other blogs with fewer than 200 readers. That's a tough one, since I love so many bloggers!!

Here are the rules:

1) Thank the blogger who gave you the award - Done!
2) Copy and paste the award to your blog - Done!
3) Pass the award to five bloggers with fewer than 200 readers; tell them by leaving a comment on their blog. Now, this is the hard part, whittling it down to just five, but here they are:

1 - Daisy - a handsome little lady telling her wonderful stories from Australia!
2 - Sagira - for making me so proud with such agility prowess!
3 - Sarge - for keeping a smile on my face!
4 - Tessa - for being such a dainty cutie patootie!
5 - Stewey - because his smile makes me happy!

4) Now I hope these five bloggers will pass the award on to five more up-and-coming bloggers!! Let's keep this award going!

Happy New Year from the Diva!

2012-01-01T10:52:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T08:48:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas to all of our friends!
We wish you peace and happiness this holiday season!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-21T06:23:00.000-05:00

Please Help the Houston Pitte Pack in Their Time of Loss

2011-12-16T15:03:00.000-05:00

Please read this post from Mayzie's blog - and share, share, share.

Our friend Sandra of the Houston Pittie Pack lost everything to a housefire last night, including many of her beloved pets. Only Bella and Brinks made it out alive. The others (Coco Chanel, Guero, Shelby, Tiger, and Lucky) passed in the fire.

Mayzie has started a Chip-In for Sandra and her family. Now is the time of year to open your hearts, and who better to open it to than Sandra whose heart is bigger than the world itself?

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sandra, her family, and the loving Bella and Brinks.

Happy Howl-O-Ween!

2011-10-31T18:20:00.000-04:00

Happy Howl-O-Ween from Ghosty and Goblin! Booooo!

Introducing: The Dowager Hound

2011-10-24T06:24:00.000-04:00

I am proud to introduce to you the award winning, head turning, all-around good sport:

Oliver, the Dowager Hound! (Or as one friend named him, "Mrs. Ollinger," which is so perfect!)

He won First Place for Most Creative Costume at South Wilton Vet's annual Halloween party yesterday!

He was up against some excellent competition, including a cow, a king, lots of pumpkins, a bullfrog, a geisha, even a cat who was given an honorary prize of Bravest for being the only kitty among so many dogs.

Atta boy, Ollie! You surprise me every day!

Separated at Birth?

2011-10-19T06:16:00.002-04:00

Black Cap Night Heron Chick

We went to the Maritime Aquarium a few weeks ago and saw some pictures of shore birds. This particular one caught our eye as it reminded us of a certain dog in our own home...

Lucy

Halloween's Coming

2011-10-18T06:11:00.001-04:00

Beware the ghosties and goblins that lurk on the sofa.

Adopt a Shelter Dog Month Photo Contest (Cats Can Enter, Too!)

2011-10-11T18:38:00.006-04:00

Enter to win in PAWS' Adopt a Shelter Dog Month Photo Contest!

First, you must "Like" PAWS' Facebook page

Then, enter the contest! It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

Each photo entry is $3. Enter as many photos as you would like. All submissions must be in by October 14, 2011.

1. Make your donation to PAWS through Causes - click here

2. Email a photo of your pet (jpg only), your pets name, and your email confirmation of your donation from Causes to roxywaters8@gmail.com

3. Get your friends to “Like” your pic!

The person with the most Likes by 12pm EST on October 24, 2011 wins a $25 Petco card! It’s that simple.

Good Luck!

Participation

The PAWS Photo Contest is open to everyone. You may participate in the contest in two ways, by submitting photos, and by liking photos. People who submit photos may also like other people’s photos. PAWS is not responsible for any unauthorized use of your photos by Facebook users. You may participate in the contest in two ways, by submitting photos, and by liking photos, however, only people entering photos are eligible for the grand prize.

Photo Submission Criteria

All photos must be in compliance with the Contest Rules. PAWS reserves the right to remove photos at any time that are not in compliance with the Contest Rules. We have the following limits on subject matter:

No objectionable content, such as violence, obscenities, or nudity
No people in the photos
No content that is defamatory to any group or individual and/or violates any law

Winning

On October 17, 2011, the photo submissions will be posted on Facebook. The photo that receives the most Likes by 12pm EST on October 24, 2011 will be declared the winner. The winning entry will receive 1 $25 Petco gift card and the winning photo will be the PAWS Facebook profile picture for a week.

Image Ownership

All digital images must be original work. Participants retain ownership rights to their photos. By submitting your photograph you grant PAWS and unlimited, irrevocable, worldwide, royalty-free, perpetual, nonexclusive right and license to use, reproduce, publish, modify, perform and display the image on any of PAWS webpages or any replacement or successor to such web page, and in any marketing or advertising of any kind related thereto, in any medium now known or later developed. PAWS will not pay you any compensation for your photograph or any use we may make of it. By submitting your photograph you agree and represent to PAWS that you are the sole copyright owner of the photograph.

I Am Queen & Saturday Pet Blogger Hop!

2011-10-01T10:12:00.000-04:00

It's Saturday! Time to meet some new friends and reconnect with old!

We're Exhausted!

2011-09-20T19:57:00.001-04:00

Too much fun. It's the only way to describe PAWS' 4th Annual Bark in the Park, held this past Saturday.

We had 135 registered walkers, and I would estimate that at least 400 people attended with their dogs in tow. There were so many dogs of all sizes and breeds - I was like a kid in a candy shop! Our vendor space was sold out - first time in four years - we're already looking for a larger venue for next year!

I didn't win the "big" raffle (for an HDTV, iPad2, or Garmin), but I did score a very cool Rescue Ink t-shirt, doggy bandana, Fromm treats, and a Nylabone for the pooches in the smaller raffle.

The Rescue Ink doggy bandana makes even the sweetest dog look tough.

I picked up a very pretty collar for Charlie - it captures her kooky personality perfectly. It's got a rich brown background and it's made from satin so although it's a thicker collar, it's very flexible and very girlie-girl for my tomboy. Handmade by Sew Fetching. The picture doesn't do it justice:

Your pooch, too, can have a beautiful collar (or other accessories) from Sew Fetching!

The Sew Fetching folks came with THE cutest Papillion named Annie! She definitely stole my heart.

Annie, Sew Fetching's very own, very beautiful mascot!

Pooches from the teeniest puppy...

...to the much larger attended. (Only a Dane could make a Dobie look small!)

Oliver got to meet Francois, a PAWS adoptable who I would LOVE to

add to my crew! I think they liked each other! As a matter of fact,

I think Ollie is giving Franky a little kiss in this pic!

This is one of PAWS' puppies, available for adoption, who slept like a baby at one point.

Peter, volunteer puppy wrangler, had his arms full with this little bulldozer!

A good time was had by all...

And we slept like babies that night! (Oh, the snoring!)

More pics to come as they become available!

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-14T06:29:00.000-04:00

You know he just did something bad. Oh, I don't know. Like chewing on a pillow?!

Stubby Dog - Turning the Way You View Pit Bulls Upside-Down

2011-09-09T05:55:00.000-04:00

Charlie Says Hi

2011-09-08T06:27:00.001-04:00

And, this seat is taken (wink).

Waiting for Irene

2011-09-01T06:31:00.001-04:00

Following the earthquake last week, whose tremors I felt as I sat in my office at work, we had a visit from Lovely Irene. We personally fared well, just some downed branches and a mess of leaves. We lost power for about 20 hours, but that's nothing compared to other areas of the state, who are still waiting for the lights to come on and may have to wait several more days.

Some dogs hunkered down on their comfiest beds.

But even the comfiest bed proved just too boring!

Some dogs slept through the entire event.

Some dogs, with their perennial forehead wrinkles, worried...

...and worried...

...and worried.

Some dogs just laughed in Irene's face!

And yet others carried on with business as usual.

Zombies!

2011-08-24T06:11:00.001-04:00

The Dogbrella

2011-08-22T06:04:00.003-04:00

If I ever tried to use this, it would scare the *%^#@ out of my dogs.

Not only does it seem awkward, it looks like a satellite dish ready for transmission.

But, if your dog wouldn't mind it, it's available at Hammacher Schlemmer for $29.95.

Charlie Says Hi/Pet Blogger Hop

2011-08-20T07:46:00.000-04:00

Charlie says hi, and wants to remind you that she has great and absolute powers with her laser eyes.

She's watching you...

Sasha has been FOUND!

2011-08-16T20:02:00.004-04:00

Sasha is finally safe and sound at home. PHEW!

Thank you ALL for your concern and good wishes for this beautiful girl!

You have no idea how special this girl is to us (and of course, her family). I can sleep tonight!

Whiny Dog

2011-08-15T21:39:00.001-04:00

He couldn't stand that I was in the front yard washing my car. So, like the cat that he is, he jumped up on the wall. Whining and carrying on the whole time...

How he jumps up on something about as wide as a balance beam is beyond me!

Sasha - Missing - 8/10/11

2011-08-13T21:35:00.001-04:00

Sasha is missing (8/10/11)! Please help. PLEASE CALL: 203-919-9193 if you see or find her.

10-year-old, brindle Pit Bull with large white patch on chest, white on right leg. Cropped ears. Loves people - does NOT like other dogs. Has cancer - owners heartbroken and offering a reward.
Wearing black flowered collar and brown leather leash. Last seen on Wilton Avenue, Norwalk (near Ash Creek Saloon, Cablevision), 8/10/11.

PLEASE CALL: 203-919-9193

Rope Toys and Thieves

2011-08-13T09:07:00.000-04:00

This is Charlie's rope toy. And I mean Charlie's rope toy. She'll play tug-of-war or toss it in the air with a "certain" other dog. But there's no doubt that it's her coveted toy. She's very proud of that fact.

This is the Certain Other Dog who stole Charlie's rope toy, ripped the tennis ball off of it, and shredded the rope. He then abandoned the remains somewhere in the back yard.

Charlie is not pleased.

Karma - A Pit Bull Heroine Needs Your Help!

2011-08-10T19:53:00.001-04:00

This is Karma.

Karma saved her human and countless other people during a shooting in my town (Norwalk, CT) this past weekend. I'm not very proud of the city right now, but I'm sure proud of Karma.

She had to have her front leg amputated due to extensive injuries caused by a bullet wound. Her human was also shot. Now, her human is struggling to pay the $4,000 vet bill.

This isn't exactly a bad section of town, and it's not far from our shelter. According to this story, someone came upon the wedding reception (yes, wedding reception) and began shooting.

If you can, please donate. This dog (and her human) deserves it!

"The Karma Fund"

VCA Animal Hospital

123 West Cedar Street

Norwalk, CT 06854

or, call: 203-838-5956

Thank you for supporting this heroine!

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-10T06:07:00.001-04:00

Can't say I blame her. It's hot and humid and awful outside. I'd rather sleep in, too!

Don't forget to vote for Carolina Care Bullies! You can vote every day!

Help Carolina Care Bullies Win!

2011-08-08T06:08:00.001-04:00

If you have Facebook, it's as simple as a few clicks. And Carolina Care Bullies will get some much needed dough!

Click here to get to the contest sponsored by Vann York Toyota. Click in the box to accept the rules. Click next to "Carolina Care Bullies," then scroll down and click the Vote button. Simple!

If they win first place, they'll take home $500 which goes a long way in rescuing beautiful pit bulls! 2nd-6th places will take home $100, nothing to sneeze at!

Carolina Care Bullies is a foster rescue, made up of 25-30 foster homes throughout the state of North Carolina. They rescue pit bulls from euthanasia in NC "shelters." They can really use our help!

Thank you!!

Pet Blogger Hop!

2011-08-06T11:32:00.002-04:00

I don't want to get up... Five more minutes, 'kay?

What? It's Saturday!! I'm up!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-03T06:16:00.000-04:00

Make yourself at home...

My Lucy Would Do This

2011-08-02T19:34:00.000-04:00

Lucy would sit by my graveside until the cows came home.

Loyal Lucy waits.

This article in The Week centers on dogs who have grieved by keeping vigil over their loved ones following their deaths. It certainly epitomizes "man's best friend," and, in some of these cases, just plain old "best friend."

There's nothing like the love of a dog.

Please Vote for Sid!

2011-08-01T18:37:00.005-04:00

Photo: TJ McNulty

Remember our boy Sid?

His mom and dad have entered him in a contest, and if Sid wins, PAWS wins!

Please follow this link to vote for Sid. Enter your email address at the bottom of his story's page to vote.

IMPORTANT!! You'll receive an email to confirm your vote. Be sure to click on the link in the email so your vote is counted!

Thank you for helping Sid help PAWS!

I Want to Be A Dog in My House...

2011-07-31T10:37:00.000-04:00

I'm sitting on my bed. There's not much room because...

This is on one side of me:

And this is on the other:

I want to be a dog in my house!

Who, Me?

2011-07-30T08:42:00.001-04:00

He's just about the silliest dog I've ever met.

Not Something You Want to Pull from Your Dog's Mouth

2011-07-29T16:38:00.002-04:00

Both dog and carpet survived.

Does Sarge Have A Point?

2011-07-27T19:13:00.003-04:00

This article, in the latest issue of Dogtime, addresses the issue of the rehabilitation of former dog fighters. It's from the perspective of Sarge, a 17-year-old pit bull, who says:

"Dogs are simple. We don't overthink things, we just want results. If someone gives me a treat I don't spit it out because I'm not sure what their reason was, or I'd be missing out on treats! So when people — whether it's these guys or Michael Vick himself — are doing things that'll produce results for dogs like me, I don't waste time questioning their motives; I just find more opportunities to put them to work!"

Sarge, a rescued 17-year-old Pit Bull, speaks
"his mind" about dog fighting and redemption.
Photo copyright Elderbulls Blog

Sarge was rescued after living with an animal abuser for 14 years. The Pennsylvania SPCA took Sarge and 30 of his friends in after he was rescued by law enforcement officers. Sarge has been living happily as an Elderbull with five other rescued dogs he cherishes. His Facebook page has over 4,600 friends.

Last week, Sarge posted a photo of himself with former dogfighters on the HSUS End Dogfighting Campaign site. (I'm not especially fond of HSUS or Wayne Pacelle, and I have to wonder if Sarge did this of his own accord or was somehow coerced into posing for this picture.)

Now, we know that Sarge himself doesn't speak. His comments are those of his guardians, wonderful folks who have six rescued dogs, including Sarge, whom they love to pieces.

But, if he could speak, would these be his words? Do we, as lovers of Pit Bulls, have to begin to heal and give Michael Vick the chance to use his powerful celebrity and voice as an agent for change? I don't know.

What are your thoughts?

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-27T06:29:00.002-04:00

Beating the heat in CT. (No, the dog on the lower right is not dead.)

URGENT: Connecticut: To be euthanized by owner this week

2011-07-26T20:42:00.002-04:00

Frisco - neutered brindle pit mix, great bat ears,white paws, 4-5 mos., about 35 lbs., seems okay with other dogs. Microchipped and knows basic commands.

Frisco has a “bend” to his front paw and his owners want to euthanize him rather than wait to see if he grows out of this condition.

He does not show signs of discomfort and he’s walking, running, and playing like a normal pup. Surgery at this point is NOT necessary. (We’ve seen this condition in the past, usually a result of being kept in a too-small crate. With dogs who are young enough, like Frisco, the legs develop and tend to grow to be normal.)

Can you help Frisco, even if it’s to foster him temporarily??? He deserves a chance at life.

Please contact: Rachel (203-927-9572). Frisco is in the Milford, CT area.

Scawy!

2011-07-26T06:23:00.002-04:00

There's a carwash near our house that's very popular. But... They have these scary "things" doing flips and holding nozzles to wash the car. It's like being in a carwash thought up by Stephen King...

Charlie is Ready for Work

2011-07-25T06:02:00.000-04:00

However, I'd just as soon go back to bed.

Happy Monday!

Colorized

2011-07-23T09:15:00.000-04:00

Oliver, colorized. But he still shouldn't perch on the chair like this.

Sometimes...

2011-07-20T20:34:00.000-04:00

...I think Charlie is a little spoiled.

She has the best seat in the house, and she holds on to all of the remotes.

If she doesn't like what we're watching, she'll change
the channel without even asking if we mind.

She's got tons of toys, and tends to hoard them.

Here she is, again on the ottoman, and someone had the nerve to put their feet up next to her!

They must have been stinky feet...

But she is the Queen! (And she knows it!)

Walkies!

2011-07-17T18:18:00.001-04:00

It was a gorgeous day for a walk, hot but not humid, nice breeze... I decided that Charlie and I would go for leisurely walk to the pond. So I doused myself in DDT (to keep those annoying little flies away), leashed up Charlie, and off we went.

Off we go! We don't have "real" sidewalks, just these weird
asphalt ones which aren't well-maintained. I guess they consider this "The Country"?!

The regular route is closed because they're re-doing a bridge on our street. Very annoying!
So we had to go down the hill...

The first time I walked Charlie, fire hydrants terrified her.
Now... "Piece of cake, mom!"

One problem we have around here is poison ivy, lots of it. It makes a walk difficult
because the vines hang from the trees and the leaves dangle over the sidewalks.
I'm extremely allergic, so I keep my distance!

Finally! The pond... It's currently overgrown with lily pads.
You can usually see Canada Geese, Mallards,
Blue Heron, egrets - lots of beautiful birds. None today!

We took a rest when we got to the pond, but Charlie had too much
to sniff and check out! No resting for this girl!

On the way back, it's ALL uphill. This photo doesn't give justice to
the "gentle" incline we faced.

But wait! Is that Brad?! Maybe he'll give us a ride!

...or not...

Home, sweet (air conditioned) home!
I took a cold shower and Charlie - well, she took a nap!

It's My Birthday...

2011-07-15T17:05:00.003-04:00

Yes, it's true. In a few more days, I'll be turning... hack... cough... hackhack... oh, it hurts to say... 50. Fifty. 5-oh. It's painful. Nothing is where it used to be (ladies, you know what I mean). Everything has dropped a good three inches, and the scale has never said THOSE numbers to me before!

So, as I approach this new stage of my life with melancholy and a great yearning for my youth, I thought that instead of showering me with presents - because I know you're all aching to do just that - it would be nice to donate to a worthy organization!

I've been volunteering with PAWS for seven years, and not only do I love working with the animals, I treasure what I've learned along the way.

So many patient people took the time to teach me how to get a ~~nasty~~ sweet and loving, but very sick, cat to take a pill (have you ever tried to pill a Persian?!), give fluids to critically ill puppies without crying my eyes out, and handle the adopting public, who all think they should have that doggy in the kennel, even though he outweighs their 3-year-old by a good oh, 135 lbs.

If you're so inclined, I'm raising money for our annual Bark in the Park dog walk/festival and fundraiser. The two dogs pictured on my fundraising page (also at left) are Charlie and Oliver, both PAWS graduates who wouldn't be here today if they didn't have the love and support of a no-kill shelter like PAWS.

So, if you have an extra buck or two to spare, Team Charles & Oliver would be happy to add it to our fundraising goal! They send sloppy kisses to you as thanks for your support!

An Award!

2011-07-15T14:39:00.003-04:00

My new friends Nanny McFur and Talking Dogs both gave me the Versatile Blogger award! What a great surprise, and thank you both so much!!

Before passing this award on to others, I'm supposed to tell you seven things about myself (prepare yourself for some boredom...):

A big, milestone birthday is just around the corner, on Monday. I'm not a happy camper, but I guess I'm happy that I've made it this far! :)
I've been a volunteer at PAWS for just about seven years now. How time flies when you're having fun and helping animals in need!
I have five dogs: three are 13 years old, and four are rescues.
Charlie, the pooch who started this blog, is a Pit Bull/Shiba Inu mix. She's adorable!
I recently helped MARS transport a dog from NY to MA to meet their foster family - Best day in July so far!! I hope to do a lot more of this in the future for this worthy organization!
My Lucy is a mini Australian Shepherd, who I got in Maine after researching breeders over 13 years ago. She started my craze with MARS!
My license plate is "PIBBLE." I wonder why?!

Now, I'd like to pass this award on to other bloggers. So many of you do such a great job - this isn't easy! I don't know how many I should award, but seven seems to be a lucky number!

Congratulations, all, and pass this award along!

Nighttime at Our House

2011-07-13T21:22:00.000-04:00

Some like to snuggle with their toys on their own chair;

Some are princesses and stake their claim at the head of the bed;

And some are just weird and sleep under the covers all year long.

My First Transport!

2011-07-10T21:03:00.001-04:00

On Saturday, I had the honor of helping MARS (Mini Aussie Rescue and Support) to transport this gorgeous boy to his foster family.

I met up with his former guardians in New York and drove him to Massachusetts where I (reluctantly) turned him over to his foster family (they live in New Hampshire). I say "reluctantly" because he's such a sweet gentleman, I considered dognapping him for myself!

I first learned about MARS after Lucy, my mini, came into my life over 13 years ago. She's not a rescue, but I still think it's important to support minis who aren't as lucky as she is.

MARS is a 501(c)3 national organization run entirely by volunteers. Learn more about their mission here.

I may have found my new rescue/volunteer calling!

A Stranger Among Us/Saturday Pet Blogger Hop

2011-07-09T07:22:00.001-04:00

We have a family of geese at the pond near our house. I wonder if they know they have a third child? I hope they don't expect him to fly...

I Love This Dog

2011-07-03T11:04:00.000-04:00

Francois is available for adoption at Paws. He's been with us for a few years now, probably because he's a Pit Bull/Mastiff mix (not a good excuse in my opinion).

He's currently learning some pretty cool agility moves and he's really good at them. Smart boy, Franky! If I could have six dogs...

Happy July 4th!

2011-07-02T07:55:00.000-04:00

Charlie's ready. She started yesterday afternoon on the deck with drinks. Look at the silly face.

Be safe everyone!

Cupcakes for a Cause

2011-07-01T16:28:00.002-04:00

Do you LOVE cupcakes?

If you're anything like me, any dessert can be on the table, but if there are cupcakes, watch out! I turn into a cupcake-seeking missile. Donot get in my way.

Some of you may know PAWS über volunteer Cathy Paukner. Cathy has dedicated many, many years to the feline side of PAWS, where she works with cats and serves as a Cat Adoption Counselor, matching cats and kittens to homes for a lifetime of love and companionship. What you might not know is that she's an extraordinary chef! She's the talented craftswoman behind the scrumptious hors d'oeuvres served at PAWS' events.

Cathy recently began a business called "Cupcakes for a Cause" where she offers her beautifully crafted delicious, yummy, amazing, luscious, mouthwatering cupcakes for sale and donates a portion of the proceeds toPAWS!

Her flavors range from the more simple (vanilla with vanilla buttercream) to the more exotic (espresso with mocha buttercream decorated with candied coffeebean and a sprinkling of cinnamon), and everything in-between. There are about 15 different selections on her cupcake menu right now. To name just a few:

Cuckoo for Coconut - Triple Coconut (Coconut Cupcake, Coconut Frosting dabbed with a sprinkling of toasted coconut)

Whatz Up Doc – Carrot Cake Cupcake with Fluffy Cream Cheese Frosting decorated with marzipan carrot and dusted with cinnamon

S’Mores for Me – Graham Cracker Crust topped with Chocolate Cupcake, Toasted Marshmallow Frosting dabbed with sprinkling of graham cracker crumbs

Going Bananas – (Bananas Foster) Banana Rum Pecan Cupcakes, Caramel Frosting drizzled with caramel sauce decorated with banana chip and sprinkling of chopped pecans

Tiramisu – Vanilla Cupcake soaked with Coffee Syrup, Mascarpone Frosting decorated with ladyfinger and dabbed with dusting of cocoa

Each cupcake is adorned with an edible little paw print, an adorable signature element Cathy is using to remind people that the dessert they're enjoying is helping a local animal shelter.

About a week ago, I arrived at the shelter and headed back to the kitchen. The whole area was filled with the inviting aroma of maple syrup. Cathy had brought in a few dozen (yes, a few dozen!) of her "Moms Mapley" cupcakes for us to try. OMG. I was walking on clouds.

They were the most beautiful cupcakes I'd ever seen. (My Betty Crockers were never this pretty.) And, oh, the frosting. Oh, my heavens, the frosting. Maple buttercream with crushed toffee. A great way to start a day at the shelter!

If you're on Facebook, "Like" Cathy's Cupcakes for a Cause page here. For a full listing of cupcakes Cathy is currently offering, "Like" the PAWS Facebook page here, then you can access the Cupcakes for a Cause notes page with all the delicious details, pricing, and Cathy's contact info.

Summer is a time for celebrating. Cupcakes can only make it yummier!

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-29T05:54:00.000-04:00

Not acceptable! Dogs don't perch!

Do they?

June 24th: Take Your Dog to Work Day & It's Pet Blogger Hop Saturday!

2011-06-18T08:04:00.000-04:00

Why can't I get my boss to buy into this? Could it be because she hates animals? Probably. But work would be so much more pleasant if I could bring one of my dogs.

Let's see, I have five dogs. One for every day of the week! It's like a different outfit for every day!

Oh, why can't I be queen...

Speaking of queen, Lucy is a hardworking mini Aussie. She's willing to work her little Aussie buns off on June 24, and has been training rigorously!

Where' the caps lock on this thing?!

I'll just get one of my minions to do this for me. I'm much too pretty for this.

Now, it's time for Pet Blogger Hop Saturday! Meet new friends, re-connect with old friends! It's easy!

Link up your pet blog name and URL using the Linky Tool below. You only need to add your link once to be seen on all the Saturday Pet Blogger Blog Hop Linky Tools for that week. Note that if your blog is not pet related your link will be removed. Also note that only one post per blog is acceptable, and links promoting giveaways that are unrelated to the pet blogger hop will be removed. This is a community building exercise and not a promotional vehicle – please treat it as such.
Grab the “Saturday Pet Blogger Blog Hop” button on the right hand side of this site and include it in your Saturday Blog hop post so that your readers will know what is going on. *Note – posting is optional. Feel free to just link and follow.
Follow your co-hosts listed in the first 3 slots of the Linky Tool.
Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you’d like.
Take a moment to comment on the blogs telling them you’re from the blog hop.
Follow back when you get a new follower through the Saturday Pet Blogger Hop.
Make friends and grow!

Poor, Poor Oliver

2011-06-14T20:01:00.000-04:00

Poor Oliver has been nibbling his private parts incessantly and now he's in a cone. Poor Oliver knows how to manipulate the emotions of onlookers by using his sad brown eyes, causing them to say "poor Oliver!" when they see him. Poor Oliver has never worn a cone before in his life, and apparently, it's as heavy as carrying a boulder on a rope around your neck.

Poor Oliver.

Nine more days to go.

StubbyDog Features PAWS Volunteer!

2011-06-11T08:50:00.000-04:00

PAWS volunteer Sue Smith and her gorgeous pit bull
and PAWS graduate Truffle

StubbyDog is an organization dedicated to changing the way pit bulls are perceived by the public. They hope that their approach of "changing the conversation" - taking it from negative and apologetic to positive and educational - will help to save some of the million plus pit bulls who are being killed in shelters every year.

StubbyDog also brings to light the problems people face just by having a pit bull as a companion. From pit bulls who are service and therapy dogs to people who can't find housing because of the type of pet they have.

Recently, StubbyDog learned about the issue PAWS volunteer Sue Smith faced when her husband Steve's job took him to London. But, as Sue quickly learned, London doesn't "take" pit bulls! Here is what Sue and Steve had to do to keep their family together. (By the way, we're proud to say gorgeous Truffle is a PAWS graduate!)

It's Playtime!

2011-06-06T05:41:00.000-04:00

Hey! Wanna play?

Yeah, sure!

Careful... Ref's watching...

Take that!

Yum - leg!

- That was fun! Now waddaya wanna do?
- I don't care, but that leg was deeelish!

First Impressions and Stupid People

2011-06-05T10:14:00.000-04:00

I was recently bitten by a dog while volunteering at a my local shelter. It's earth-shattering for some people, but part of the territory for me. Not that I enjoy being bitten, don't get me wrong! I avoid it at all costs and it's only happened twice in seven years. But when it happens, it's not the end of the world for me. Life does go on.

Let me make it perfectly clear: I put this dog in a bad position, and he let me know it. It wasn't his fault, it was mine: In my rush to close down one night, I tried to be efficient, but I left logic behind and I paid the price.

Many people mistake fear aggression with other types of aggression, like dominance aggression. This poor dog is a fearful pooch, and we'll work with him to build his confidence until he's the best companion anyone could ever dream of having. We have amazing people at our shelter who are talented trainers and have done this type of behavioral work in the past. I know they're up to the challenge of doing the same for this beautiful dog.

But, that's not why I write this post. Oh, no. I write it because of first impressions and stupid people.

Immediately following the bite, I flushed the wound with Betadine (thank you, Purdue Pharma, for your generous donation to our shelter!), another volunteer bandaged me, and off to the emergency room I went.

Keep in mind that it was a hot, humid day, I had been at the shelter since 11 am that morning, and I'd been cleaning the kennel and walking dogs for the past three hours. It was 7 pm, I looked like a pig (no offense, pigs), my hair was a mess, I had no make-up on (I mean, why would I?), my clothes were filthy at this point, and I really looked the part of "slob." Oh, and earlier in the day, one of the dogs lifted his leg and peed on my pant leg. I was not a pretty sight. But who knew I had a side trip to the ER planned?

Unfortunately, I was wearing my t-shirt that said "My Best Friend Is A Pit Bull." I love this t-shirt, but on this day it was bad timing.

Sitting in the ER waiting room, everyone looked at my t-shirt, looked at the blood-soaked bandage on my arm, and just assumed that a pit bull did the damage. I spent most of the 3.5 hours in the waiting room telling people that no, I wasn't bitten by a pit bull, and in the seven years that I've been volunteering, I've NEVER been bitten by a pit bull, and the dogs at home that manage to bite me most are either my Border Collie or my Parson Russell, not my pit bull... Ugh. I mean, if you're in the ER, don't you have better things to do than question me?? If not, go home so I can move up on the waiting list, 'kay?

Now, it's 10:30 pm. I finally get into a room. YAY! I'm gonna get treated and released! I can go home soon! I'm tired, hungry, dreaming of a shower and my pillow. Dreaming of this wound being wrapped so it stops bleeding! That would be cool....

First, I see a PA who's complaining about how long he's been there. I joke "Overtime?" He grunts, "no, regular hours, half hour to go." This does not bode well.

I hear the doc outside saying "the patients are complaining, but they just don't understand that we get tired too." No, I really do understand. But... why are you an ER doc in the first place...? (I later looked him up in the hospital directory, and he IS an ER doc... full time. Scary. When you're in that position, you really should love - or at least like - your job, no?)

Here's what really burns me up: I finally see the ER doc. For a total of two minutes. This isn't an exaggeration. He took one look at my t-shirt (and probably the rest of my sweaty, smelly gear) and decided for himself that I was an idiot harboring a dangerous pit bull. Since it was after hours, he called the police - the POLICE - to force me to file a report on this dog. Wouldn't hear a word from me. Wouldn't listen to my story AT ALL. I could have been bitten by a yeti, but who would hear me out?

The policeman who came, bless his heart, actually listened to me and accepted the fact that 1) I didn't want to file a report as it wasn't the dog's fault; 2) the shelter would work with the dog (as I mentioned above); and 3) he understood what fear aggression was! Go figure! Snaps for the cop!

The difference: He didn't judge the book by the cover. He asked questions and listened. How can a physician NOT ask questions, NOT listen? I work with physicians all day long (for the past 22 years) and I was shocked at the treatment I received in the ER by this man. The physicians I know are compassionate and intelligent and work with the patient in mind.

By the way, two days later, I ended up in the hospital. Seems the doc and his PA didn't clean the wound adequately, I developed an infection, and it required IV antibiotics. What a surprise!

I Worship the Ground You Walk on...

2011-06-04T17:19:00.000-04:00

...please let me kiss your feet!

Separated at Birth?

2011-05-21T10:31:00.000-04:00

Oliver

Baby mountain gorilla

Dontcha think??

Separated at Birth?

2011-05-03T20:41:00.000-04:00

Brad

Chauncey - Available for adoption at Paws!

Spring is Trying!

2011-02-18T05:53:00.000-05:00

It's supposed to hit 60 degrees today! Of course, it's supposed to drop to about 20 degrees tonight. Go figure.

Here are a couple of pictures from the last storm that I never got to post. Thank goodness the warmer days have been allowing some of this stuff to melt off slowly, so our basement hasn't flooded! When you have snow up to your earlobes, you start to worry.

Here's to Spring!

The Brady Bunch says "Hi!"

Yeah, it's cute when you're not the little dog.

"It's not so deep under the big tree!" "Pipe down, kid. This is our secret."

StubbyDog is Here!

2011-02-15T19:25:00.000-05:00

They've launched their site! I'm soooo excited. And now, the reinvention of the pit bull begins!

If you love pit bulls, you'll LOVE StubbyDog. Take a look at their site. Soak in the beauty of these dogs. Read some of their stories. Get educated, and don't forget to check out Stubby's Blog!

Help destroy the stereotype that surrounds these beautiful creatures. As StubbyDog says, "Rediscover the Pit Bull"!

It's a DEAD HEAT! We Need Your Help!

2011-02-11T09:53:00.000-05:00

This crazy contest is aging me well before my time. But... we're neck-and-neck with another competitor, and WE NEED YOUR VOTE daily through this Sunday! We just know we can do this!

So I’m shamelessly begging everyone again - yes, AGAIN! I'm sorry, but do you know how many spay/neuter operations Paws could get for $5,000? :)

If you would, will you vote for Oliver’s story and leave a comment for him? Please vote daily through Sunday!

http://www.thedailynorwalk.com/promotions/CTMH

Again, if our story wins, Paws automatically gets one half of the prize whether it’s the grand prize of $10,000 or one of the $500 runner-up prizes.

If you haven’t registered yet, it’s easy, just use the registration button at the top right corner. Stories are open for comment and voting through February 13^th. Please tell friends and family!

Thank you all so much!

Cindy & Oliver

Oliver's Story or... THEY’VE CHANGED THE RULES!! HOW COULD THEY…??

2011-02-01T18:47:00.000-05:00

I just found out that people now have to go in and VOTE for their favorite story. YES, they changed the rules, and I'm not happy! Just to make it more annoying, people can vote daily. What are the odds that we'll win this after all?!

I mean, you can't just change the rules of a contest halfway through AND NOT TELL ANYONE! That's right, I just happened to check the page and stumbled upon the fact that they tossed in this VOTING BIT. AND... AND... they rewrote the rules to include the voting. Voting was NOT part of the original contest rules! Really? Can they really do that?

Anyway. I must calm down.

So I’m pestering everyone again. If you're up for it, will you go back to Oliver’s story and place a vote for him? Of course, we understand if you're just fed up from me bothering you so much! And if you want to vote daily, well, we can't stop you... ;)

http://www.thedailynorwalk.com/neighbors/one-night-last-april

Again, if our story wins, Paws automatically gets one half of the prize whether it’s the grand prize of $10,000 or one of the $500 runner-up prizes.

Thank you all so much!

The Saturday Pet Blogger Hop/Please Help Paws Win!

2011-01-29T09:51:00.000-05:00

If you would, please go to this page and leave a comment for Oliver’s story “One Night Last April”:http://www.thedailynorwalk.com/neighbors/one-night-last-april .

If our story wins, Paws automatically gets one half of the prize whether it’s the grand prize of $10,000 or one of the $500 runner-up prizes. The judges look at the number and substance of comments and then decide on a winner, so your comment is extremely important!

To leave a comment, you have to register using the registration button at the top right corner. Stories are open for comment through February 13^th. It’s important that we spread the word to as many people as possible, so please pass this on to friends and family!

Many of you know that Paws is where I've been volunteering for 6+ years, and it's where both Ollie and Charlie stole my heart over the years. It's a 501(c)3 privately funded organization, and most importantly, it's a TRUE no-kill shelter which takes in animals that other shelters refuse for one reason or another. Animals like Oliver never would have had a chance at survival at another shelter!

Thank you all so much for your support!!

Cindy & Oliver

-------

Join the Blog Hop - Meet New Friends, Have Some Fun!

Yup. More Snow.

2011-01-27T10:30:00.000-05:00

We had our weekly snowstorm last night. We weren't supposed to get SEVENTEEN INCHES of snow. But we did.

When I pull into the driveway, I feel like I'm on vacation at Tahoe, except that I'm not, with snow piled feet high on either side of the car creating a tunnel for me to drive through. The difference is that I'm pulling into a garage in Norwalk, CT rather than pulling into the parking lot of Squaw Valley or Northstar. Very different, believe me.

Running after squirrels is a little harder as the snow gets deeper.
Besides, they're too smart to be out in this stuff.

Deep, very deep.

"Where's summer? I know it's under here somewhere."

"Ha! Found it. Ate it."

Just an idea of how deep the snow really is. Lucy likes it.
Okay, loves it. She'd stay out all day if we let her.

"Let's play some more! C'mon!" "Shut up, kid. I'm goin' inside."

Ollie's in Third Place - Please Help Him Move UP!

2011-01-24T14:32:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it, but Oliver's story is in third place so far in The Daily Norwalk’s contest “Close to My Heart”!

Thank you to everyone who has registered and left a comment for us. Here's how it works: The judges look at the number and substance of comments and then decide on a winner. If our story wins, Paws will get one half of the prize whether it’s the grand prize of $10,000 or one of the $500 runner-up prizes.

Many of you know that Paws is where I've been volunteering for 6+ years and it's where both Ollie and Charlie stole my heart over the years. It's a 501(c)3 non-profit, and most importantly, it's a no-kill shelter which takes in animals that other shelters refuse for one reason or another.

Oliver’s story is titled “One Night Last April,” and so far, it’s one of the first stories listed on the page. So, if you have a moment and want to support us, please do! You do have to register to leave a comment - there's a registration button at the top right corner.

Thank you all so much! Feel free to share this with your friends and family! Stories are open for comment through February 14. It's for a GREAT cause!

Yes, MORE Snow...

2011-01-23T10:21:00.000-05:00

Here in the Northeast, we've been having snowstorms at least weekly. Since there's no fighting Mother Nature, here are some pictures of Charlie enjoying it. Sort of... I think even the dogs are a little sick of the white stuff!

Oh, man! My path is covered. I have to clear it all over again.

Okay, here goes! Jeesh, this stuff is deep. Again.

Trudge... Trudge... Trudge...

I hope the others appreciate all of my hard work.

Is it Spring yet?

Feel free to help out, guys!

Even the birds have to shovel out this year!

Please "Vote" for Paws & Oliver!

2011-01-19T09:40:00.001-05:00

I know you’re all incredibly busy, but if you have a moment, please leave a comment for my entry in The Daily Norwalk’s contest “Close to My Heart.” It’s about my little Oliver who I adopted from Paws last year.

If the story wins, Paws will get one half of the prize whether it’s the grand prize of $10,000 or one of the $500 runner-up prizes. I think that the more comments you get, the better the odds you have of winning. There’s no real “voting.”

Oliver’s story is titled “One Night Last April,” and so far, it’s one of the first stories listed on the page.

You'll have to register to leave a comment - there should be a registration button at the top right corner.

Thank you all so much! (And feel free to share this with your friends and family!)

Snow Wonder!

2011-01-13T06:28:00.000-05:00

You might have heard that the Northeast was hit with yet another snowstorm yesterday. Here in Connecticut, we got upwards of 18 inches which my dogs just love. Here are a few pics of the day as the snow continued to fall.

Snow day and time to play!

Small dog, big snow.

One of the hazards of a long-haired dog in the snow...

Snow balls on the coat!

It's beautiful, but deep!

The first few steps are tough ones, even for the taller dogs!

The first step is to establish a path.

It's deep, mom, it's very deep!

But once they figured it out...

Let playtime begin!

This isn't so bad...

...once you get the hang of it!

Phew! That was fun. Time to call it a day.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-02T09:37:00.000-05:00

Charlie is still recovering from her night of partying, but she promises to be more faithful to her blog in 2011. She's been neglecting her duties in the blog world and she's ashamed of herself. Well, just look at her. Obviously, she can't help herself. Two days later, and she's still sleeping it off.

Ooops. I think she heard me.

Happy New Year, everyone!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-15T06:01:00.000-05:00

Toy Story

2010-12-12T08:31:00.000-05:00

After yesterday's post, I told mom that it's only fair that you know The Story of the Toys and How The Little Stinky Bugger Monster Stole Them All.

I mean, stealing toys is one thing, but this animal, this thing has a real problem.

You see, he takes them and brings them outside. He never once brings them back in so we can play with them again. Oh, nooooooo. Once they go outside, they're lost for good. We never see them again! Nylabones, Kongs, rope toys, tennis balls by the dozens... Mom has to buy new ones because they disappear! Poof! They vanish. Into thin air. Or into the woods, I don't know. Maybe the sqwerrels get them! (Oh, horrors. If that's the case, this is worse than I thought!)

So here's the sad story. You be the judge!

It all started one day when I was all alone, just having fun with my favorite rope toy. (I LOOOOOVE rope toys. They're probably my favoritest in the universe.) I was so happy, chewing away, not a care in the world.

Then, something happened. The Little Stinky Bugger Monster thing snuck into the room. At first I didn't see the monster because my eyes were closed. (Hey, remember that I was in toy heaven chewing on my favorite rope toy, minding my own business! Some Stinky things might take a cue from the minding their own business part!)

I warned The Little Stinky Bugger Monster! I gave it my best growl and snap! Quick and mean... That's how I operate! Heh, heh. I thought everything was okay. I'm pretty mean and tough! But The Little Stinky Bugger Monster was fast. It grabbed the rope toy! Grabbed it! My FAVORITE rope toy!

I fought as hard as I could, but The Little Stinky Bugger Monster was strong for a little bugger! It wouldn't let go! I could feel the toy slipping from my grip. Slowly, inch by inch, I was losing my FAVORITE TOY! I knew that this poor, poor toy was soon to join all of the others...

Outside, in the grasp of The Little Stinky Bugger Monster! All of our toys, MY TOYS, lost to this usurper. This thing that came into our lives and stole our toys, one-by-one. And gave them to the sqwerrels!!!!

It's not right I tell ya.

A Reminder!

2010-12-11T10:02:00.000-05:00

I just want to remind my mom that Christmas is coming. My stinky little brother keeps stealing my toys and hiding them outside. I try as hard as I can to hoard them, but Stinky keeps stealing them! MAAAAaaaaa!

What's a dog to do?!

DNA Mystery Continues

2010-11-15T21:22:00.000-05:00

A few months back, I did a cheek swab DNA test on Oliver. The results were not what I had expected. At all.

I know I have a lovable mutt, but looking at him - and I know you can't just look at a dog and determine its breed(s), we know that a lot of problems have stemmed from that mistake! - I would bet the ranch on Rhodesian Ridgeback somewhere in his lineage.

Now, I know the cheek swab test isn't as accurate as the blood test. So when it came back with somewhat surprising results, I thought of it as more of a funny conversation piece rather than Oliver's heritage written in stone.

And I set my sights on a MARS Wisdom Panel. Indeed, the Wisdom Panel would shed light on who Ollie really is; what makes his ears do weird, floppy things; why, when he barks, it's sort of a howl, sort of a - well - scream from the depths, like something out of a B horror flick. This is not a "Labrador/Rottweiler with a dash of Yorkie," and we were going to identify who Oliver really is!

Well, let me tell you. This "more accurate blood test" has got me wondering how many daddys little Ollie has. Seriously.

First, a little background to help you understand the results.

MARS breaks the breed make up into Significant, Intermediate, and Minor. If a Significant breed is detected, it means that at least 50% of the dog's DNA comes from that particular breed. If an Intermediate breed is detected, at least 25% of the dog's DNA is from that breed. If a Minor breed is detected, at least 12.5% of the dog's DNA is from that breed.

Ready?

Banish the idea of Labrador or Rottweiler or Yorkie from your mind. Just forget about those breeds altogether. Not a drop of those pooches in Ollie, according to MARS. Not one single drop.

My little Oliver, King of All Mutts, is:

No Significant breed detected
Intermediate breed (25%): Dachshund
Minor breeds: Japanese Chin, Boxer, and Toy Poodle

I can see Dachshund in him at times, but Japanese Chin? Toy Poodle??

So now, when I get upset with him, I threaten to curl his hair and dye it pink.

Do Not Adopt Warning PLEASE CROSSPOST: Cathy Bradford aka Ruth Bradford aka Ruth Ann Bradford

2010-11-15T08:55:00.002-05:00

Do Not Adopt Warning - Cathy Bradford aka Ruth Bradford aka Ruth Ann Bradford
by StubbyDog Project on Monday, November 15, 2010 at 7:57am
For Rescues, Shelters, and Private Adopters:

DO NOT ADOPT:
An indivdual going by the names: Cathy Bradford aka Ruth Bradford aka Ruth Ann Bradford has been attempting to adopt dogs, specifically pit bulls. She is suspected of selling dogs to labratories or for using in dog fights. Her husband is convicted dogfighter.

This individual is attempting to adopt from local shelters and private rescues in Missouri and Illinois, as well as contacting Pit Bull Rescue Central and applying for dogs w/PBRC's online adoption application

Description: She is about 5’4” white, on the heavier side, brown, curly (loose curls), shoulder length hair.
Approximately – 45 to 50 years old.

Bradford uses multiple addresses:
3205 cotton dodd rd. Cuba, MO
1488 Becker Road Cuba Mo 65453

She is willing to drive up to 200 miles (per her application) to pick up a dog.
She consistently lists other pets on her application, but the pets vary. Often she mentions having a Min Pin.
She also lists her husband, the dog fighter, as a resident of her home.

Please do not adopt to this woman or anyone at her address. Do not allow her to transport dogs. Please Cross Post.

Separated at Birth?

2010-11-12T08:11:00.000-05:00

Separated at birth: Oliver and a red kangaroo joey, born at the Assiniboine Park Zoo. I see it in the eyes and cheeks, don't you? And, he jumps. A lot.

Lucy ~~votes~~ pleads for bringing Oliver to the zoo. And leaving him there.

Picture by Darlene Stack/Assiniboine Zoo

This picture is from a gallery of absolutely adorable baby animals featured in the Wired Science blog recently. They're promoting two new books of photos taken from the ZooBorns internet site, which, if you love animals, is as addictive as can be.

Rufus Needs Transport - NC to FLA!

2010-10-16T08:35:00.001-04:00

If you can help or know someone who can...

Rufus has lived his life chained to a tree. He's a gorgeous, three year old Rottweiler who is heartworm positive and emaciated... His owner has agreed to release him to a wonderful foster home who will give him the help he needs and rehabilitate him, but she needs help transporting him from Statesville, North Carolina to Brandon, FL.

If you have any ideas or can help with transport - click here!

Saturday Pet Blogger Hop

2010-10-16T08:21:00.001-04:00

Link up your blog name and URL using the Linky Tool below. You only need to add you link once to be seen on all the Pet Blogger Blog Hop Linky Tools for that week.
Grab the Pet Bloggers Blog Hop button that our friends over on Life with Dogs made for us and include it in your Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop post so that your readers will know what is going on.
Follow your co-hosts listed in the first 3 slots of the Linky Tool and comment on their blogs to say hello!
Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you'd like
Take a moment to comment on the blogs telling them you're from the Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop
Follow back when you get a new follower through the Saturday Pet Bloggers Blog Hop

HELP! Last Day to Vote for PAWS!

2010-09-29T06:34:00.000-04:00

It's the last day to vote for Paws so we can win a new website! We're desperate for one (click here if you don't believe me), and all you have to do is go to this Facebook poll, scroll down to Pet Animal Welfare Society of CT and click on the button provided. (You might have to click on "Polls" at the top to see the survey itself in order to vote.)

Right now, we have only 75 votes and we're in second place. The leader has 113! We're not that far behind... With your help, we can win! Help, please!

Tell your friends... We'd appreciate it sooooo much! THANK YOU!

I'd sleep a whole lot better knowing Paws had a new website!

Saturday Pet Blogger Hop - And an Apology!

2010-09-25T09:50:00.001-04:00

Phew! Glad this week is over! We've been so busy with our 3rd Annual Paws Bark in the Park fundraiser, I haven't had time to visit everyone and say hi! I promise I'll catch up, but I think the maniacal expression on my face in this picture sums it up. I'd reached a breaking point by Sunday, but it was all well worth it!

So it's time for another blog hop - let's get out there and meet some great new friends, and reconnect with our old buddies!

Link up your blog name and URL using the Linky Tool below. You only need to add you link once to be seen on all the Pet Blogger Blog Hop Linky Tools for that week.
Grab the Pet Bloggers Blog Hop button that our friends over on Life with Dogs made for us and include it in your Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop post so that your readers will know what is going on.
Follow your co-hosts listed in the first 3 slots of the Linky Tool and comment on their blogs to say hello!
Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you'd like
Take a moment to comment on the blogs telling them you're from the Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop
Follow back when you get a new follower through the Saturday Pet Bloggers Blog Hop

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-22T06:14:00.000-04:00

A good time was had by all!

How to Beg for a Cookie. Success Not Guaranteed.

2010-09-17T12:14:00.000-04:00

Okay. Pay attention. This is how it's done.

"I'm cute... See how cute I am? You know you want to share that with me.
Hey! Look at me when I'm talking to you."

OMG! Was that the last bite? I can't believe it - that was the last bite!
He ate the last bite! How rude!

Saturday Pet Blogger Hop - With A Twist

2010-09-11T09:00:00.006-04:00

This week, you can help lots of animals all over the country.

First, you can help Paws of Norwalk, CT by clicking on this link and voting for us. If we win, we'll get a free website from Elevation who specializes in web solutions for non-profits! We're in desperate need of a new site, and here's proof... Please pass this link on to as many friends and family as you can! Thank you very, very much for your support!

Second, if you visit Two Little Cavaliers, you'll get details on how you can help donate food to shelters nationwide. It's almost as simple as clicking the link to vote for Paws. Write a post and Pedigree will donate a 20 lb. bag of food to a shelter!

Now on the fun and the task of meeting new friends!!

Link up your blog name and URL using the Linky Tool below. You only need to add you link once to be seen on all the Pet Blogger Blog Hop Linky Tools for that week.
Grab the Pet Bloggers Blog Hop button that our friends over on Life with Dogs made for us and include it in your Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop post so that your readers will know what is going on.
Follow your co-hosts listed in the first 3 slots of the Linky Tool and comment on their blogs to say hello!
Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you'd like
Take a moment to comment on the blogs telling them you're from the Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop
Follow back when you get a new follower through the Saturday Pet Bloggers Blog Hop

Help Paws Win A New, Free Website!

2010-09-10T19:25:00.000-04:00

You all know I volunteer at a no-kill animal shelter in Norwalk, CT called Paws. It's where two of my five dogs are from, Charlie and Oliver.

If you can, I'd appreciate it if you would vote for us in this poll on Facebook. I'd also be very grateful if you would share the link with your friends and family!

If Paws wins, we'd get a free website. And boy, do we need it. Just take a look at this page, and tell me if you don't agree!

Elevation, the sponsor of the poll, specializes in web solutions for non-profits. If we were to win, it would be a dream come true!

Thank you so much for your support!

Two Pitties Sitting Pretty

2010-09-07T21:17:00.005-04:00

Meet Vendi (left) and Bandit, two Pit Bulls who have been at the shelter far too long. They're both about 1 1/2 years old and they love to play together.

Vendi (left) and Bandit (right).

Vendi loves everyone she meets, and Bandit prefers adults to children. They have the best personalities anyone could ever want in a companion. Cuddly, sweet, playful, friendly... Did I mention playful? And they'll cover you in kisses if given the opportunity.

So why have they been waiting so long for homes?

Vendi has been at the shelter for over a year. Fifteen months to be exact. Lots of people show interest, but no one ever follows through. She's a stunning lady, red with white, not too large (about 50 lbs.), and so willing to please. She would make a family with kids so happy - and so tired, playing all day long!

Bandit joined us two days before Christmas last year. He's so sweet and handsome with his eye patches. He's not a big dog either (about 45 lbs.), he's good on leash, knows basic obedience and he's so lovable! So why has he been waiting for nine months for a home?

I can't accept that it's because they're Pit Bulls. But I'm sure that's what it is. And it's so unfair to these two wonderful dogs.

Three's a Charm!

2010-09-06T19:53:00.000-04:00

One more award, from my pal Roo! Look closely - see anyone familiar?

Yes, that's Roo! He IS the King of Hearts!

And Roo's gift comes with a message, too:

Because you do so many heart warming things for others...

I made this award to give to you.

Just for being you :)

XOX

Roo

Isn't that the sweetest? Roo, you're a fella after my own heart! XOX right back to you!

And Another Award!

2010-09-06T09:30:00.000-04:00

As if I weren't honored enough receiving an award from Miley, my friends Haylie and Fred at Hound Girl re-awarded me the Strange Men in Pinstripes Award! This was a "re-award" (if that's even a word!) because I had received it from my friend Tilly a few weeks back.

But in my world Strange is a Wonderful Thing, so I'm eager to share it with even more of my strange blogging friends!

Some background regarding this award:

"The 'Strange Men in Pinstripe Suits' award is given to only the strangest of folk, and as the recipient of such you are deemed very strange indeed. Congratulations.

Now you must go forth and celebrate the strangeness of friends (and strangers - strangers are always allowed) by nominating blogs run by strange folk. *Beware, some people don't like you to refer to them as strange…Try to avoid them if possible."

Of course, as with any award, there are some rules:

1. Add the logo of the award to your blog post.
2. Add a link to the person who awarded it to you (don't mess with strange people).
3. Nominate seven other blogs telling us why you think the recipient is strange enough to deserve the award.
4. Leave a message for those nominated on their blogs.
5. And, if you email catephoenix(at)gmail(dot)com and tell her you've received the award for your strangeness, she'll enter you in the biggest kick-ass Strange Men competition ever. Details over at strangemeninpinstripesuits.com (click on the award link on the home page).

Pretty cool, don't you think? You win an award AND get to enter a contest to win other stuff!

So, here are ANOTHER seven blogs that I think are strange and wonderful!

Mayzie

Animal Shelter Volunteer Life

Now, the true rule to remember is the Strange is a GREAT thing!

I'm off to tell these folks about their awards - have a great day!

The Doggie Bloggie Award!

2010-09-06T08:43:00.001-04:00

So I mentioned on Saturyday that my friend Miley at Curious Cavorting Cavoodle awarded me the Doggie Bloggie Award.

Is this not the cutest little doggie you've ever seen?! Thank you, Miley - I'm honored!

This award has some rules:

  1. Please thank the dog who gave this to you, and link to them.
  2. Name 10 (yes 10) things about yourself. Try to be as creative as possible.
  3. Then, award 15 doggie bloggers. It doesn't matter whether they are old or new.
  4. Comment on the new receivers of this award's blog to let them know of the love.
  5. And the most important: HAVE FUN!

Okay - first,10 things about us (YIKES! 10??)

1 - Charlie likes to watch dogs on TV. She doesn't watch TV in general, but whenever a dog appears, she'll stop whatever she's doing and run up to the screen. She'll often play bow to get it to play with her. If the dog runs off, she looks behind the set to see where it went!

Charlie watches Westminster

2 - Oliver has learned things from the other dogs. Weird things. For example, he's learned how to herd from Lucy, my Aussie, so he nips the heels of the other dogs as they run. And he's learned how to counter surf from Charlie. It's very funny to watch him watch the others and mimic their habits! Except the counter surfing. That's very annoying!

3 - I have a buckwheat neckroll that Charlie avoids at all costs. If I so much as adjust the pillow and Charlie hears the crunch of the buckwheat, she slinks out of the room. Go figure!

4 - When Charlie gets in trouble, and that's fairly often, she "smiles." It would be cute if she weren't IN TROUBLE!! :)

It's hard to stay mad at a dog who smiles at you!

5 - Oliver likes to go for walks, but when he gets tired, he plops down. And won't budge. This is very frustrating, because he weighs 30+ lbs. now and I'm not carrying him home!

Oliver refusing to go one more step

6 - Buster is a cancer survivor. In 2007, he had a tumor removed from his ribcage - osteosarcoma - a very rare place for it to occur, and he's back to being his grouchy old self!

Only Buster could look dashing in a cast!

7 - The tip of Oliver's tail is no longer with us. It's a mystery as to where it is, or when it left his body, but it doesn't seem to bother him one way or another. He just has a goofy, curly knob where it used to be. Which adds to his character!

8 - I love that I have a group of virtual friends to blog with about animals. Having people who understand that there's more to life than "me, me, me" is wonderful. Knowing that many of you have rescued your animals makes it even more fantastic, and knowing that each and every one of you love your animals to pieces is the icing on the cake!

9 - I love volunteering at our local no-kill shelter, and I'm looking forward to our annual walk coming up on 9/19! It's a lot of hard work for the handful of volunteers who organize it, but it feels so good when the event rolls around and everyone and their dogs are having so much fun! And the end result, helping all the great pets we have available for adoption (and these are just a few!), is what makes it all worthwhile!

10 - And, finally, I know we can't rescue and rehome every animal out there, but I do know we can try!

Phew!! That was tough!

Now I have to pass this award on to 15 of my blogger friends:

Tessa the Maltese

I Still Want More Puppies

The Krabachers

Greyhounds CAN Sit

Cata-What?

Grey Hares on My Sofa

House of Carnivores

Kirbypuppy

Okay, done!

Now I have to leave a comment for everyone so they know they've just gotten an award! Bye for now!