My2ndChance and My Own

3 years now...

2008-06-22T08:44:00.000-07:00

Today marks the 3rd year I've had Sheli. Let's look back on the day Sheli joined our home from the breeder. It was on Father's Day when she came here. When the breeder entered my front yard with her in her arms, she put Sheli down on the grass, and immediately after, Sheli ran right to me and stood between my legs. It was like she remembered me, or somehow just knew that I was going to be her mama. It was such a special bonding moment for me.

And here is my girl today, taking a moment to lie on my pillow while I was getting ready for work one morning. Ah, she's my comfort. I love her so!

First Allergy Injection

2007-11-02T21:34:00.000-07:00

Sheli had her first allergy injection today. We went to the vet to discuss this 'immunology' phase and the vet showed me how to give her the injection. I knew how to give shots because I already give Sheli shots for her bone dysplasia (every 3 weeks), but that one is given in the muscles just above her hind legs, while the allergy shots is topically done. The vet showed me how to pull up her skin above her neck and inject right into the skin without touching her muscles. She has three vials. The first one is very mild and the second one increases with more allergen, and the last one is really strong. She started with vial #1 at 0.1ml and with every 2-3 days, the ml is to increase. Our goal is to get Sheli to become immune to the allergens, but we have to take small steps at first and gradually increase with time. I am to observe her reaction for an hour after the injection and document them because common reactions can range from almost nothing to a severe hive outbreak. The worst could be lethargy and vomiting. About 45 minutes after her first one, she started to itch at the location of the shot. She tried to scratch it with her hind leg, but couldn't reach it and it wasn't too bad. I just helped her by scratching her back and gave her Benadryl to relieve her from the itching. As the dosage increase, she might need Temaril-P or Predisone as a stronger antihistamine medication prescribed by the vet. I'm hoping not. The vet says that some dogs develop immunity rather fast and is on injections just as a maintenance, but some dogs have more reaction to it than others and a longer time developing immunity. I'm hoping Sheli is the former. Her next due shot is on Monday, November 5th. We'll see how that goes at 0.2ml. Keeping my fingers crossed for a mild to nothing reaction.

Oh, yeah and I also got rid of all of her beddings in the house that was cedar-based because that was one of the things she was tested positive for. So now I have to replace all of them with foam based beddings. I have a cedar chest to store things in, but that's in the garage and not within reach, so it should be ok. I also threw out all of the cedar wood strips I had in the closet to fend off moths. That's okay. I can adjust my life to make my little girl's life better. Isn't that what a good Momma is supposed to do?

Now I know...

2007-10-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

...what Sheli is allergic to. A couple weeks ago, she had a Rast blood test to determine if she was positive to allergens. She's been suffering like crazy for a long time with itching of her belly, chin, underside legs and paws, and rash inside her ears. She scratches herself using her hind legs, chews on her paws, rubs on the floor and grass constantly (more in the spring, summer and fall). She has been on on-going antibiotics for skin bacteria the past year and she also has been taking allergy pills to relieve her itching, which didn't seem to help much. I had enough and requested further testing. At first, a year and half ago when her allergy symptoms started, the vet suspected food allergy and she was put on a strict diet for a long time. After a long time of evaluation, it turns out it is not food that she's allergic to, which I'm very thankful because I've just started cooking their foods a couple months ago and I am glad I don't have to limit the kinds of food I give her.

The things that Sheli was definitely positive for are in 5 categories (based on the Rast test): *WEEDS: ragweed, goldenrod, russian thistle & lamb's quarter; *TREES: walnut, cottonwood, mulberry, orange, cedar, juniper, acacia, alder, & palm; *GRASS: johnson; *MOLDS (various species) and *MITES (housedust). These results reflect what her white blood cells were most reactive to. That doesn't mean that these are the absolute only things that she is allergic to, but are just a guideline to base the vet's treatment on. Her reaction was about the same in each category. The test was done by this company that my vet is associated with is called the Greer Labs. http://www.greerlabs.com/vet/vet.index.php.

I am to give her allergy injections. As of today, I just ordered the shots and it will take approximately two weeks before it comes in. When it does, I will first start the injections, they are given every 3-4 days. These eventually get spaced out until the maintenance phase which is one injection every 2-4 weeks. The most common side effect is an allergic reaction to the injection, which is usually mild, says the vet. I'm hoping she won't have any reaction at all.

Well, that's the update on Sheli. Poor girl.

2007-09-29T20:46:00.000-07:00

I just HAD to post this. I was looking back at my videos of my dogs and came across several when Sheli first arrived to the house. It is just so cute. I miss it when they both were puppies. Such good memories. This was their second day together since Sheli joined the family. I can't believe she's going on 3 and Chance's going on 4 already! They were under the bench that is in the front yard. Sheli can't fit under there anymore, naturally.

Diet Alteration

2007-09-29T16:42:00.000-07:00

For a long time now, I've been considering changing my dogs' diet. One reason is for Sheli. She continues to have allergic reaction to something unknown most notably in the spring and summer. It's probably something in the air such as ragweed or whatnots. Second reason is for Chance. He has had episodic bouts of heavy vomiting ranging from 3 to 5 months in between. I never knew what caused it because he had no other symptoms that might have pointed to a specific ailment. I've had to take him into the ER a couple of times already and both times, he was x-rayed to see if he had a blockage in his intestines. Blessedly, he wasn't. He probably just had an upset stomach, but he did not have diarrhea to go with his vomiting. The last episode which was in July, he became very picky with his food that I've been giving him all this time (dry food mixed with canned food). I didn't know which it was, the dry or wet food that he wasn't interested in anymore and he didn't seem to like either, but ate anyway because he was so hungry. The vet prescribed a special dry food for Chance, but Sheli could eat it too as it doesn't affect her. Another reason is it is much cheaper to prepare your own food rather than buy commercial foods, which I'm a bit apprehensive of these days since the pet food recall. A friend of mine feeds her dog raw food and her dog seems to have the best health condition.

A while back, I started to subscribe a monthly guide called The Whole Dog Journal. In it covers a wide variety of features relating to just dogs, but probably half of each guide covers food preparation, whether that be raw or partially-, or fully-cooked homemade foods for dogs. It also includes wonderful and rich information on ailments and homeopathic or natural remedies/supplements to utilize with dogs. I grew more and more fascinated with the testimonies that I've read in each guide. After several months, I've decided that I was going to try cooked food mixed with 8 0z. of dry food that I bought from the vet. My goal was to eventually feed them wholly homemade foods, but I figured I'd stay with dry food because when we go out of town or if I'm out of town and I have a dog-sitter stay at my house with my dogs, they need to still be accustomed to their dry food. I'll just have the sitter add canned salmon or chicken to it. No more commercial canned pet food for my dogs.

It's been about 2 1/2 weeks now since I've started cooking their foods. They literally drool with anticipation. They enjoy sitting patiently by my side in the kitchen every time I begin to cook. And when they are given the green light with an "Okay," they deliriously gulp up their food. I even cook them eggs and turkey bacon (not of pork) or cottage cheese and apple sauce mixed with their 8 oz. dry food for breakfast. They love it! I'm noticing a big change in both of my dogs. Sheli continues to have allergy, but I think it has lessened. I need more time to determine whether the change in her diet helps. I just know it doesn't make it worse. Chance hasn't had another episode since.

I enjoy cooking, period. I enjoy it even more when I'm cooking for my dogs. I can even eat what I make for them. The only difference would be if I wanted to add in onions or bell pepper and I'd just make a separated portion for that. So far, I've cooked lamb, chicken, ground beef and turkey, steak, brisket, salmon (canned), and liver mixed with legumes, grains, vegetables, and some fruit. It's been fun. Tomorrow, I'm making meatloaf for all of us, one with all the fixings except for onions and bell pepper. Yes, I even give them cheese.

Try it. You never know how it might change your dog's lives, as well as yours. Doubts?? Check The Whole Dog Journal and a few other pamphlets on feeding raw or homemade foods to your dogs. It's interesting...

3 years now...

2007-07-24T08:56:00.000-07:00

Today marks the 3rd year I've had Chance. Let's look back on the day after I brought Chance home from the breeder. It was just a month after Nicky's passing and Chance came into my life at the right time.

And here's my boy today, lounging on my chair in the living room. Ah, I just want to inhale all of him! I love him so!

*If you're wondering about Sheli...wait until Father's Day of next June (08), which marks her 3rd year of being with me. I'll put up a post like this one.

My Folk's New Puppy

2007-07-23T20:30:00.000-07:00

My parents just got a 4 month old pure bred white Pointer Bird Dog. It belonged to my cousin who lived in Tennessee, but when he moved back to Southern California, he moved into a place that couldn't have dogs.

My parents just had their toy poodle, Baby, of 10 years euthanized a couple weeks ago. Baby was actually about 13 or 14 years old as she was a "hand-me-down" dog from an old family friend. The house has been empty and my father wanted to get a new dog that would perform as a guard dog this time. What he really wanted was a big dog that would bark at the door or back gate, but not actually attack, so people would know that they had a "big" dog and get them running in the opposite direction. He has a lot of stuff in the shed and garage for his business. He didn't want a toy dog anymore. My mom agreed and have been looking online for different breeds that would suit both of their preferences and needs. She's found a few and my dad didn't like them. The kinds he wanted, my mom didn't. They had to go back and forth on which dogs that they wanted to get together. My mom really wanted to rescue or adopt a dog from the shelter so they could have a chance in having a good and fulfilled life. My father didn't want a dog that was older than a year and preferred young puppy so he could train the dog himself. My mom didn't want to have to train a dog, but one that was older and already trained. The debate continues...

While the search... I tried to convince them to rescue a young Labrador Retriever from the Fetching Companions, Inc., a rescue organization that specializes only in Labradors. They had a list of Labs that were in need of homes, young and old. My mom was interested and even looked at a few possibilities, but...

She was in China at the time when my cousin came to California for a visit and told my dad that he had a puppy he'd give to him because he knew the place he would be moving into didn't take dogs. My father was elated and before taking his first inhalation of filled-with-carbon-dioxide-cigarette-smoke-congested oxygen, he quickly said YES! He couldn't wait to tell my mom, who had no idea of what was going on. When she returned and found out that they were going to get this Pointer puppy, she was a bit taken aback. But, she also knew there weren't any talking my dad out of this, so she just let him have his way. And she, later, saw a somewhat blurred forwarded photo of him in her cell-phone and sort of liked the way he looked. He looked like a white Lab only with bigger ears in the photo.

A couple weeks later... Jake arrives. He's a cute, but very hyper-active and a very skinny pup. Jake was 4 months at the time of arrival and have been living outside in Tennessee. Luckily, he was already house broken and learned how to use the doggy door at my parent's house in a flash. He hasn't made an accident in the house (which I'm very impressed with). My mom went right back out of town for a couple of weeks and my dad stayed home with Jake, except for only 4 days to join her in Idaho at my youngest sister's house. During those 4 days, I stayed at their house with my dogs, of course, and Jake, so I could care for him. It was the busiest 4 days of my life. Jake is like having ten puppies in one. He's quite an active one. I tried to teach him a few obedience lessons during my stay there and he picked up pretty well. He loves birds and would chase them if he could. Go figure. He's a Pointer, alright.

How did my dogs like meeting him? My dogs are having a little bit of a hard time getting accustomed to Jake. First of all, because he's just a baby and his play bites hurt and he just doesn't seem to stop playing. When my dogs wanted to rest, they couldn't because Jake was constantly nipping away at them. It didn't take Chance long to establish his rank with Jake. He gave Jake a stern scold-like bite, which left a slight wound on his face, and now Jake leaves him alone. Sheli lets him jump and crawl all over her to a point and when she's had enough, she'd gently warn him with a soft snap. But, she's never "told him off."

One day while Chance, Sheli and I stayed at the house with Jake, I decided to take all three dogs to the park that I normally go to with my dogs and let them run free. It is an enclosed park so they couldn't escape if they tried. My bad. I was totally wrong... Jake really did! He saw a bird fly over us and past the fence at the very end of the park and tried to follow it. But, when he got to the fence and realized he couldn't follow it anymore, he snooped around looking for a way to get through it and to my dismay, he found a tiny weeny hole under the fence and crawled through it and started to run away! I was aghast. I ran as fast as I could across the field to the fence and jumped over it without hesitation. The fence is about 4 feet tall. I was wearing my summer sandals at that time. I didn't care if I got hurt. I wanted to get to Jake before he found his way to the busy streets. Luckily he was a curious puppy sniffing around when I caught up to him. I carried him all the way back up to the park. It was a steep hill full of prickly bushes and water-run dirt. By the time I got up there I was out of breath and put Jake on his leash so he wouldn't try to escape again because he kept trying to go back to the hole. Whew... *inhale...exhale...inhale...exhale...*

I'm a bit worried that my parents are going to have a handful when they get settled in after their summer travels. Jake needs a lot of training (just like any other pup). But, he's an active breed, needing a lot of exercise and I worry my parents won't give that to him. Oh well, it's my dad that made this decision. Hopefully he'll follow through with what he told my mom by being the responsible one to train him.

Happy Birthday to you, Chance!

2007-05-06T09:29:00.000-07:00

Chancey turns T H R E E today! He's my precious baby boy.

Today, we will take a long walk through the huge Northrop airbase center in Redondo Beach. It is like about 4 or 5 miles in diameter and all over is plenty of neatly groomed landscape. A lot of grass to walk on and it's very open and spacious. It's also a very quiet place with just about no one around during the weekend. It's supposed to be a private property, but it is open for anyone to go through. There are side streets that people drive as a thoroughfare to the main streets. There are large parking lots that people park their cars and take buses to nearby fairgrounds, etc. It's also right next to the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center where almost every single weekend, there are some sort of performing going on. Also there is a building right behind the performing arts center that have beautiful and clean indoor basketball courts. During the city's basketball season, many children of all ages have tournaments there. Within a walking distance, on the main street, is a large soccer and track field where there are constantly people walking, jogging, playing on. All of those are on one side and adjacent to the Northrop facility, so I don't feel exactly as if I am trepassing on the other end where there is usually no one around, maybe one person or two with their dogs walking. It will be nice walking with Chance and Sheli there today.

It's supposed to be really hot today, so I'll probably wait until later in the late afternoon when it's cooler. Meanwhile, we will go visit my sister, who is moving out of state in a few weeks. She'd want to say good bye to my dogs too.

Now, I'm off to be with Chance on his special day. See you later...

Dog Owner's Rights Under Attack!!!

2007-04-19T19:34:00.000-07:00

I got an email this afternoon from American Kennel Club, which I do pretty often when they have news to share, explaining something really terrible. I don't know how many people still come in here and read this blog, but I sure hope a lot people still do. And if you read this....please please, I beg you, do something. Read below the excerpt from the email I got. American Kennel Club wrote,

We need your help to fight Assembly Bill 1634!

This proposed legislation will require that all cats and dogs over the age of four months must be spayed or neutered unless the owner qualifies for and acquires an intact animal permit. Failure to comply with the provisions of the bill carries a civil penalty of $500 for each animal for which a violation occurs.

This legislation will dramatically affect your rights to own, breed and purchase purebred dogs in California. Please immediately register your opposition with your Assemblymember and help us defeat AB 1634!

We are asking that all responsible and concerned dog owners in California send a written letter to their Assemblymember and we are encouraging you to visit your representative’s office and educate them about the negative impacts of AB 1634.

For information on how to contact your legislator, a sample letter and talking points please visit our California Action Center.

The site to California Action Center is in case the link above is unaccessible from in here: http://www.akc.org/canine_legislation/CA_action_center.cfm. Please do take some time to read the article and take action. Or, at least send this article and link to all of your animal lover friends.

Thanks.

Happy Birthday to you, Sheli!

2007-04-08T07:15:00.000-07:00

Today, Sheli turns T-W-O! She's still as fiesty as she's always been. No sign of aging has been indicated in her yet. However, she has been diagnosed with elbow dysplasia and early stages of arthritis already. She must've been the one to inherit it at such a young age. She's currently on injections for 6 weeks and the vet said after the 6-weeks long series, she'll have to have an injection every 2 weeks indefinitely! I feel so bad for her. She's been limping for a while, especially after a long walk or hard play. I've noticed that since she first came to my "nest" at 10 weeks old. I thought it was because she's quite the athlete one and becomes sore after hard play. But, it began to worsen after time and finally after one time she couldn't get up from her bed, I decided to take her in for x-rays. That was when I found out she had defective bones. My heart just broke!

Nevertheless, she's my spunky one. She still shows love for balls and water. She continues to play, but naturally, I'm to minimize as much hard play as possible so she can, hopefully, begin to heal with the high dosages of glucosamine-chondrition (sp?)/MSM injections.

Anyway, Happy Birthday to you, Sheli, once again! I look forward to many more years with you, sweetie.

Poor Sheli!

2007-03-02T19:41:00.000-08:00

I was visiting my mother at her house this afternoon. At one point, I was standing outside the front door while both of my dogs inside looking out the door. It was pretty windy outside. As I turned to look at the street, suddenly I heard this loud "Boom!" and both dogs ran out. The heavy wooden front door slammed shut with the wind. I immediately grabbed my dogs and told them to go inside. It wasn't until a few seconds after we got inside that I saw what looked like splash paint or spray paint that was running out of its container leaving dallops of paintdrops all over the couch, hardwood floor, rug, door, and themselves. It took me a few more seconds to register that it was blood that was being sprayed all over the place. I couldn't figure out where it was coming from until Sheli kept wagging her tail and blood just sprayed all over me and my clothes. It was the stupid monster door that slammed on the tip of her tail. Looking around on the floor by the door, while trying to hold Sheli still, I saw the edge of her tail, so I picked it up. I yelped for my mom to come immediately and help me get a rag so I could hold it tight. As I made Sheli sit down to remain calm, it just bled into a pool, literally. I told my mom we had to go to the animal hospital and get her looked at.

It seemed like FOREVER before we finally got to the vet. Traffic was pretty bad. My mom's car's gas light came on. She was out of gas. We were worried we wouldn't have made it to the vet. I sat in the back with Sheli on my lap, unbuckled, praying that nothing would happen or that an officier would see me. It wasn't intentional. I just jumped into the car and we left like a lightning bolt. Thank God we got there safely.

The vet looked at her and said she would be fine. I showed her the part of her tail I found on the flloor. It was only the skin part of her tail at the very end broke off leaving the last part of her tailbone sticking out. Imagine your pinky finger being slammed by the door and just your skin part at the first line it bends at scraped off, but your fingerbone was still intact. (This actually happened to my sister when she was a toddler!) Now, it happened to Sheli. I felt so bad because I was looking at the opposite direction and I was close enough to the door that I could've stopped it from slamming. But, it beat me to it. My heart just sank for her becuase she was bleeding and appeared a little bit uncomfortable, but she didn't cry or anything like that. The vet shaved parts of her tail and cleaned her up, wrapped her in ace bandages.

It was hard to keep her from trying to chew on the bandages, but she finally realized that she wasn't allowed to, so every time I told her to "leave it," she would. We are to leave it on there for at least 3 days. I'm so glad it happened on a Friday because now I will be home all weekend with her to monitor her. By Monday, she'll be used to it and hopefully it'd have started to heal.

I'm just sooooooo thankful that it wasn't any worse than this. I can just only imagine her tail being broken or cut off in the middle. She'd be in excruciating pain. But, still...my heart breaks for my babies.

Returned from our Trip

2006-11-27T17:34:00.000-08:00

We just got back from our trip late last night (around 9pm). It was the worst driving trip I've had to do in my life. I was sick with the chill fever and had to drive from Mesquite, NV (our half-way stop from SLC) back to Los Angeles. It wasn't an 6-hour drive, but rather a 10-hour drive! Going through Las Vegas and entering California, and especially into Los Angeles, we were hit with horribly congested traffic. And I was alone. My mother had joined the other car coming back. That was ok because all I wanted to do was to just get home. Well, my goal of arriving home around 5pm ended up around 9. I was just so sick and tired of it. I think my dogs were too. They seemed to be cramped up in the car too long. Oh, don't worry, we stopped every two hours to release ourselves, stretch, eat, get coffee, water, whatever we had to do. It wasn't like a straight drive all the way. I'm just so glad to be home!

I stayed home from work today because I was just too sick when I woke up. I was aching all over and felt chilly. I decided to call in sick and take an extra day to recuperate from the long trip and to be with my dogs before going back to work, hopefully tomorrow.

Well, here goes about our trip. It was really a wonderful and cherished time for all of us. We all had a blessed time together as a family. I stayed with my deaf sister and her family and had the best of time in a long time! We drove up to East Canyon towards Park City and played in the snow, took pictures, went down to Dell Lake where Sheli jumped into the freezing lake gleefully to swim a brief lap before deciding to get out after she realized she was cold, and then chomped on a dead deer down the trail. No, she didn’t get sick and no, she didn’t eat a lot. She only nibbled, okay! My brother in law thinks she did. :-) My pups had a so much fun with Mistie’s little Chihuahua-mix, Layne’s huge rare black Weimariner, and Layne’s brother’s Golden Retriever (whose coloring and love for swimming reminded me a lot of my late Lab, Nicky). Had Thanksgiving with my brother in law's side of family (wonderful and warm folks!). Shopped a little bit. Before we knew it, it was time to go back to yucky L.A. I was disappointed to have to leave, but I had work the following Monday.

I think I might go back up there for the week of July 4th because both of my dogs do not do well with fireworks and my neighborhood does a lot of them. It sort of bothers me because they go on and on until like around 2:00 in the wee hours! So, maybe going back on a long drive with my dogs to Salt Lake would be fun. Or...perhaps we could just drive up the coast to Washington State and back during that week. Hmm...hmm...decisions...decisions.

Thanksgiving Trip to Utah

2006-11-21T08:28:00.000-08:00

This morning, Chance, Sheli, & I are leaving for our road trip to Salt Lake City for Thanksgiving week. My sister and her family lives up there (just recently relocated), and we are going to be spending the holiday together. My father, nephew (sister's eldest son who lives with me now) and his girlfriend will be coming behind us a day later. My mom will be accompanying me and my doggies on the way up there. We are going to stop at a pet-friendly hotel in Mesquite, NV, then hit the rest of the way to Utah tomorrow morning. It'd give us a chance to really stretch and rest before another 6-hour drive. It's a 12 hour drive total. I'm anticipating a long day today. But, it'll be a fun one (I hope).

I'll write more about our trip later, so come back to read all about it.

Back to work!

2006-08-28T07:04:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't been writing the whole summer. I've been home and on the computer, but I just never got to come in here and jot down some thoughts. I've been too lazy. I've been really enjoying my summer break from work. Spent all of it with my dogs mostly. If I wasn't with them, I'd be running errands in the midst of the day (didn't want to leave my dogs in the hot car in midday) or I'd be visiting a few people. But, other than that, my dogs went just about every single where with me! They were my companions over the summer and we had a blast!

Unfortunately, today I have to go back to work. Today and tomorrow is the staff orientation days and on Wednesday, the students return to school. I am so not looking forward to having to leave my dogs at home all day long again. I just become so attached to them that it's really hard to have to separate myself from them for a long period of time. I hate the feeling! They sense something is going on. They just know. They are following me all around the house watching me get ready. In a few minutes, I'll have to leave and I'm already reluctant about it.

Other than that, my dogs are wonderful. They are healthy and have not had any weird episodes over the summer that required vet attention. Thankfully!

"Woof...woof...wuv, arf," they interject saying hi before I sign off.

Birthday party for Chance & Sheli

2006-06-11T22:09:00.000-07:00

Today my babies had their first birthday party! We had so much fun! Several of their friends came (a few didn't and it was a bummer that they couldn't come). The dogs had cake and plenty of munchies. We, humans, had turkey dogs and chips/salsa, and salad. Oh, and some fresh watermelon to accompany that. My nephew, AJ, did all of the cooking and cleaning up. He was such a servant today! He's such a great guy. The party lasted for 3 hours.

Thank you guys for coming and making this a great party! It was all you, doggies.

Look below for some pictures. :-)

Look at that cake!

2006-06-11T22:07:00.000-07:00

Birthday boy and girl

2006-06-11T22:05:00.000-07:00

Group picture

2006-06-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

Chance

2006-06-11T22:01:00.000-07:00

Hugs for Toby

2006-06-11T21:59:00.000-07:00

Kathy, Margaret (& Lola) and AJ

2006-06-11T21:58:00.000-07:00

Want a cookie?

2006-06-11T21:57:00.000-07:00

Eat cake!

2006-06-11T21:55:00.000-07:00

Merlot (Patsy's dog)

2006-06-11T21:54:00.001-07:00

Debbie & Carmel

2006-06-11T21:54:00.000-07:00

Carmel & Toby

2006-06-11T21:52:00.000-07:00

Mistie & Minnie

2006-06-11T21:51:00.000-07:00

AJ

2006-06-11T21:50:00.000-07:00

Malibu trip

2006-06-10T22:10:00.000-07:00

Chance & Sheli touched the ocean for the very first time today! A friend, who is in town visiting me and to attend my youngest sister's wedding, convinced me to take my dogs to Leo Carillo State Beach in Malibu for a swim in the ocean. By the time we left the house, it was close to 1:00pm and I thought it would be too late when we got to the beach. But, it was sunny and really warm and I was so glad we went! My dogs had a grand time there. Neither of them were afraid of the water. I had a 25 foot long leash on each of them, so they had plenty of "free space" to romp and play on the sand and in the water. Here are some pictures below. Enjoy looking at them.

First actual paw-to-water contact

2006-06-10T22:09:00.000-07:00

2006-06-10T22:07:00.000-07:00

This was still at the very beginning. After a few minutes, they were up to their chest in the water.

A brief break from playing

2006-06-10T22:05:00.000-07:00

A shot with Barbara

2006-06-10T22:03:00.000-07:00

2006-06-10T22:01:00.000-07:00

Set of 3 footprints

2006-06-10T21:59:00.000-07:00

Poor Chance

2006-05-24T19:51:00.000-07:00

My baby boy has been hit with a bizarre allergy reaction again! This time, he had severe hives all over his body. You could see it through his fur. Actually, not the skin, but there were numerous bumps all over his body. Some huge ones, the size of a quarter, some the size of a pea, and many in between. The bumps were all over his back and face. He was going crazy scratching himself on the carpet and with his nails. I noticed bumps on his back a few days ago, but didn't realize it was an allergic reaction until this evening when it appeared on his face. At first, I thought it was just tousled hair because he kept scratching himself on the back. But, I realized it wasn't that and that was when I finally called the vet and took him in. He was injected with some anti-allergy substance and is now on allergy medications for 10 days. I feel so bad for him. The medications make him groggy. Poor baby.

Last week, it was Sheli. She had some kind of allergy reaction to something and it lasted for a couple days. Her face swelled up. I hate it when I don't know what caused it. Both of my dogs are extremely allergic to many things. My late dog, Nicky didn't have that problem.

Well, as long as they are treatable, then I'm okay. I'm going to go now and tend to my babies.

2006-05-21T20:21:00.001-07:00

2006-05-21T20:21:00.000-07:00

Silly dogs

2006-05-21T20:16:00.000-07:00

I think their mama was the one being silly here. She just decided to put on funny t-shirts and put them on her dogs. They were cute on them, but they didn't like the feeling of something on their backs. Sheli would fall to the ground on her back and rub it as if she was scratching her back. Chance didn't seem to mind too much once it was on, but it was really hard putting it on him. He had a mild tantrum. He began to growl lowly, but was rather reluctant. Anyhoo...I think it's cute on them and it was just a moment to be silly.

Day 7

2006-05-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

Today was not my dogs' last day of training. I was told that today was. But, for some reason, Andy wanted us to come back next week. I told him I couldn't because that was when I was flying out to Reno. He told me I could call him and make up when I returned. He also talked about getting them started with the Intermediate class. That would be great. I'm already looking forward to them starting a new level of training. I don't know what's involved in the intermediate class, but it will be fun. My dogs enjoy getting out and being around other people and dogs, so it'll be good for them.

They were so great today. We all walked around the park together in a single line. Chance and Sheli remained by my side without pulling. Everytime we stopped, they sat down. We also did something slightly different today. We had to put them into sit/lie-down position and leave them, moving to at least 20 feet away. And we were to keep moving back. They were to stay put. My dogs did great. This time, I wasn't at all nervous for some reason. Normally, I'd be rubber-legged whenever I had to release their leashes, especially Chance's because he'd run away if he saw another dog. There were many dogs around the park today and he completely ignored them! I was so proud of him (and of course, Sheli). Then we had to have them sit and I was to stand in front of them and run backwards, calling them toward me and as soon as I stopped, they were to sit immediately right in front of me. They did so good at that too. I sort of practiced that myself when I saw Andy do that with Chance about 5 weeks ago. So, they've already been exposed to that. That was a new lesson for the rest of the class. I jumped the gun here *grin*. That was pretty much all we did today.

I look forward to the next class. I wonder what the last day of class is supposed to be about (next Saturday). I guess it's probably a test or something. Anyway...will keep you posted.

Sheli's better

2006-05-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

Last night, my aunt IM'd me to tell me that she's read this blog and asked if Sheli was feeling better. I had forgotten to put in an update yesterday on her. She's her normal self again. However, she's been spitting up pretty often and it's mostly grass that she's eaten throughout the day. This is really new for her because since she's been a baby, she's always eaten grass and never threw up once until a few days ago. I don't know why all of sudden she's throwing up grass now. But, if it doesn't hurt her, then I'm ok with that. Chance has always spit up grass since he was really young and it never hurt him. It just sort of cleanses their stomach for some reason. Anyway, Sheli spits up inside the house in the middle of the night and I have to clean up after her pretty often now. I hope this stops, but if not then I'll have to consult the vet about it. But, her appetite, physical stamina, bowel and urine are normal. It was just a weird episode. I hope it doesn't happen again. It's always something else. I'm just glad she's ok.

Sheli's sick

2006-05-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

Poor Sheli. Yesterday morning around 5am, I woke up and took Sheli to go outside to pee and once she did that, we returned to bed for a little bit more. Sheli sleeps in her own bed down on the floor, just right next to my side of the bed. She tried to ask to get up on the bed as it is customary when she knows I'll be getting up in a few minutes anyway. It's almost like she has an internal alarm clock and knows my sleeping habits. But this time, I told her not to and to lie down and stay there until I was ready to get up. She kept asking, but I just kept telling her no. I couldn't see clearly in the dark because I use lens and it was on the end table and I didn't want to put it on. I just assumed she wanted to get up on my bed.

At 6ish when I finally got out of bed, I took her out again and that was when I saw her face. Poor girl. She had been bitten by a spider or something because her upper lips were swollen and hard as a rock. Her eyes were puffed. No wonder, she was trying to tell me she wasn't feeling well. Oh! How awful I felt. I figured she had an allergic reaction to something, but how weird was that because neither dogs are able to get outside during the night. Their doggie door is locked during the night. I thought it could've been a spider that walked across her face and decided to bite her or she saw one on the wall and tried to catch it, but got venomed instead. That was the only rational thing I could come up with because she had the same reaction when playing outside while I was gardening last August or September. It looked familiar so I decided not to call the vet right away. I couldn't anyway because they weren't open that early. Instead, I gave her a capsule of Benedryl hoping that would help the allergic reaction. I didn't know what to do, whether or not to stay home or to go to work. I decided to go and get my class started since I was the only one with the morning bus duty. The other teacher does the afternoon and the buses will not let the kids off unless a certified teacher is out there, so I had no choice but to go to work. Once I got my class started and the assistants would supervise in my place, I left. When I arrived home, her face had started to reduce in swelling, but it wasn't normal still. By that time, her lower lips had swelled and her eyes were still puffy, so I decided to call my sisters and ask that they watch her while I went back to work to finish with the STAR 9 testing. Then if they thought she needed veterinary attention, they'd page me and I would leave work. At lunch time, I went over to the house to see them and she appeared fine. Not quite herself yet, but much better than this morning, energetic and playful with the other dogs. So, I decided she was fine not to go to the vet. Went back to work.

After work I went back to pick both of my puppies up. My sister told me she noticed that she kept gagging as if she was either coughing or trying to throw up. So I watched her a little bit before going home. Sure enough, I saw her do it a couple times. I went ahead and took them home and was going to call the vet from there. But, when we got home, they had dinner and her appetite was normal and she and Chance played their routinal play together. It was later in the evening that I noticed Sheli become a bit lethargic (more sleepy than usual). I thought maybe she was just feeling tired from her episode earlier this morning. She probably just needed her rest. At my sisters' house, there were 3 other dogs so she might've not really rested all day long there. I thought she'd be ok, as long as I'm there to watch her.

Later around bed time (9-ish p.m.) Sheli threw up. I wondered what was wrong with her. I hope she's ok.

Lord, help me know if it's necessary to take her to the vet. I don't want to be negilient with anything.

Last night, around midnight, Sheli woke me up and I was swift to get up. Turned out that she only needed to go pee. Returned to bed and out cold I went. I was so tired that I didn't pay attention to the time. Sheli woke me up again and I had assumed it was close to 5:30am, so I let her up on my bed. We both fell fast asleep. She curled up close to my tummy and my arm was aligned to her head. She licked my hand every now and then and her tongue was rather very warm. Chance was behind my legs. Both dogs were "spooning" on one end and the other with me in the center. How cute. Anyway, when I finally woke up, I looked at the clock thinking that it was about 20 minutes after 5:30am. I saw that it was only 4:30 in the morning! I had no idea that Sheli had been let up so early in the morning. But, she did not move one inch the whole time. She remained motionless. Oh, don't worry, she was still breathing. My body and neck was stiff from being curled up on one side for so long, so I gently moved to my other side. She stayed there and so did Chance. Then by 5:45am, she walked over to the other side I was sleeping and plopped down in the same position she did earlier, in a ball touching my tummy and other arm. I held her for a bit more thinking she must be feeling really sick. Poor girl. Told them it was time to get down and up they went. Boy, was Sheli hungry! She couldn't wait until I had my shower first. So I went ahead and fed them a bit earlier than ususal and let them out. But, before I did, Sheli threw up twice and nothing came out but bile. I was concerned. After feeding them, I jumped into the shower and got ready for work. She followed me very closely. (That's usual for her, but it felt more this time).

By the way, I noticed both dogs scratching and biting themselves more than normal, so I figured it was time for their baths and to be advantaged as it's been a couple months since. But, I had no time this week. I've decided to give one this come Saturday morning with me in the shower and then the other on Sunday. I can't do both at the same time unless I do them outside, but the weather is still a bit cool for outside baths. So, I feel bad for them being all itchy. Poor babies..suffering.

Anyway, she seemed fine to be left at home. I was going to go back home at lunch time to check on her anyway. When I did, I saw a pile of vomit outside and it was food pieces, so I knew it was Sheli's. No blood or anything else was there except for food and some grass. Took her and Chance back to work with me after lunch. I couldn't leave her at home without being so worried. Good thing today was Thursday because we have a minimum day every Thursday and today I had to drive out to another site to drop off the completed STAR tests so that was an excuse to have my dogs with me.

Chance loved the attention and being able to get out. Sheli was too, but she was more retreated and laid by my leg when I gathered up my stuff at my desk. That was not like her. We left and I ran my errands. Now we are at home and they both are napping. She's on the brown chair next to me as I type this. Chance's on one of their beddings next to the chair.

I called the vet and spoke to the receptionist there and she said that she didn't seem to be in urgent care, but to keep a close eye on her and if she continued to be sick by tomorrow to bring her in. I think she's ok. I think she just had a reaction to a spider, though I didn't see it. Oh, yeah, yesterday I decided to strip my bed and her bedding and washed everything and I even moved all of the furniture in my bedroom to do a deep vacumming job. I also sprayed the corner of the moldings at the carpet end that is close to Sheli's bed with bug spray because I can see a tiny hole. I was wondering if a spider made its home there. I wanted to take all measures to see that she's safe.

Will I let her up on my bed now that she got to last night? No. She's staying down in her bed. I wished Chance would too! But, it's a hard habit to break with him. He had one full year sleeping with me before Sheli came into our lives. So, it's hard. I was hoping he'd want to stay down with her, but no. I'm going to work on that eventually, but I don't want a habit to form with Sheli. Last night was exceptional. She was sick. She needed her mommy. I'm glad she was able to. But, it's back to normal.

She seems fine now. Thankfully. Poor baby.

Whew. It's hard to be a mom sometimes. Oh, but I enjoy every moment!

Class canceled again!

2006-05-13T15:46:00.000-07:00

Andy was asked to be a judge for the Redondo Beach Law Enforcement K9 Dog Training Competition, so he had his secretary contact everyone in the class to notify them that class would be canceled again. It is to resume next week. That gives me an extra week to work with them before showing them off on their last day of training.

So, no news to share this time. See you next week.

Actual Day 6

2006-05-06T15:49:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. Thanks for coming in here to follow up with my dogs' progress. Today is the second from the last day of training. Next Saturday will be our final class and I'm already looking forward to advancing to the next training class.

Both dogs have impressed me once again. I think they also have impressed other people as well. It just seemed that everyone from the park gathered up and stood surrounding us to observe/watch us do the training.

We did everything that we've been taught to up to date as a review and Andy was quite pleased with everyone. Even the American Eskimo did wonderfully. The Beligan Shepherd showed up for the first time since the orientation day (first day). I thought that was strange, but his dog seemed to be having private training instead of with the class because he did just about everything that we have been doing with the exception of two major things. One was when we were to have the dogs in sit and stay position, he didn't drop his leash and take several steps back from his dog. Instead, he held on to his leash appearing hesitant. Then when we did the walking by the other dogs, his dog seemed very violent. His dog didn't seem to have positive interaction. He was very nervous around other dogs and would aggressively charge toward them if they came close. He seemed to not like the Eskimo for some reason more than the other dogs. My dogs seemed to bother him the least. My dogs just basically ignored him and that, I guess, gave him a sense of security while the other dogs would greet him and that would set him off. I felt bad for the owner because he was pretty embarrassed about it, but later on I saw him talking to the other guys who were in the morning class before ours (which was the protections class) and from what I could lip read them, they were talking about getting the Beligan Shepherd to be a guard dog, not a pet. So, that's probably why he didn't have the socialization skills for visiting or play.

Anyway, today we were to teach our dogs how to be in the "down" position. Both dogs would instantly lie down when I tell them to at home, but at the park, they refused. They just wouldn't lie down at all. In fact, Chance was worse and was defiant and stood erect when I tried. Andy said that it was probably because they were out in public and when they have to be put in to the down position, that is the most submissive position and perhaps they didn't feel comfortable with that knowing there were other dogs around. It wasn't that they were defying my commands, but more of uncertainty with their surroundings. They probably felt they wouldn't be able to defend themselves from the other dogs if something was to happen if they were lying down. That's understandable. So, my homework this week is to continue walking them on my side and doing all the stuff up to date and have them lie down in public (different settings with other people/dogs around). Oh, what fun, huh?

After class, I decided to stop by a friend's house who lives just a couple blocks away from the park. I've always wanted to stop by and say hi every time I came to the area, but each time I had plans in the afternoon and couldn't. But, today I was free so I took advantage of the opportunity. Good thing they were home! Libby, their Goldie/Lab mix wasn't so they didn't get to play with their friend. Actually, it was Chance's friend. Sheli has not yet met her. So, instead they just had a ball playing around in their back yard while Ingrid, John, and I had coffee outside. It was wonderful seeing them again!

Now, both dogs are pooped and sound asleep. I'm washing the lining that is in the back of my truck that the dogs stand/sit/lie on when in the truck. Sheli was a bad, bad, bad girl today. She peed on it because she wouldn't wait until we got home. She does that every now and then. I suspect she has a small bladder and just can not hold it, even if she tried. It bothers me! Now, every time I know for sure we will be traveling more than 15 minutes with no stops in between, I make sure she doesn't drink water for 45 minutes prior to the trip. Running errands is no problem because I make frequent stops and some where I let the dogs out to pee and stretch. But, a trip that's more than 15 minutes, she doesn't seem to be able to hold it. Sigh. Annnnyyyyyway, the lining and blankets are in the wash. I better tend to it now.

See you next week for the last report of the class. But, do come back for other entries.

I should get a picture of Chance today because it's his 2nd birthday. Happy Birthday to you, my boy. *Smack Smack*

2 years old!

2006-05-06T07:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday, darling Chancey.
Happy Birthday to yoooooou!

I love you, my 2nd Chance.

Always together

2006-05-04T11:49:00.000-07:00

Day 6

2006-04-29T18:56:00.000-07:00

Actually, it's not day 6 of training. It's the 6th Saturday since we first started. Andy had to fly out of town this weekend, so today's class was canceled. We are to resume for our last 2 more sessions next week. So, I don't have much to say in here.

How did you do with the two of them together this week? Your homework.

Shoot! I was hoping you wouldn't ask. *Gulp*

Well, frankly, I haven't done a single thing until this morning. I have been extremely busy this past week that I didn't have the strength or time to take them out for practice. This morning when I took all of my beddings and their beddings to the laundromat to use their H U G E machine, I took them out around the block while waiting for the wash. To my surprise, they did excellent! I was so relieved! Well, Sheli tugged onto the leash several times, but as soon as I called her name or gave a quick jerk on her chain collar, she retreated and walked side-by-side. I want to be able to really impress Andy next week with the two of them, so I know I will have to make the time this week.

So long until next time.

Day 5

2006-04-22T17:18:00.000-07:00

Today was an interesting day because it just seemed that the dogs did everything perfectly well and without any corrections needed to be made. Well, maybe just a little bit when we were walking and as soon as I made an 180 degree turn, Chance would continue going forward and he'd be tugged but as soon as he realizes that I was turned and going the opposite direction, he would run and catch up to my side. He doesn't always keep an eye on me when walking. He looks to the other direction to see what's around. But, he doesn't pull the leash like he used to anymore. I think also what really made the difference this time was the pinch collar. They both did superb.

Today was my first time to practice with both dogs together on my side. Normally, Andy would take one and I'd take the other and then during the week for my "homework," I would take one dog at a time to work with them. Now, since I worked with both at the same time, I am to do my homework with the two together. I'm a bit apprehensive doing that only because Chance still appears aggressive when he sees other dogs. He doesn't seem to want to just sit there and ignore them. He gets up and begins barking, wanting to go to them. I have to constantly tell him to sit and "leave it." I'm hoping with the pinch collar, it would help a little bit because when you have to tug onto the collar, it isn't a comforting feeling. Maybe he'd give up after a few tries? I hope I'm not hurting him. I don't want to cause discomfort for him, but if that's the only way to learn to ignore other dogs, then maybe I will. Sheli is no problem. But, now that I'll have both of them together, I'll have to double up my strength to monitor both at the same time. I'm just hoping with all of the work we've done up to now, they'll heed to my cues. It should be fun and interesting.

We did something a little different this time. When telling my dogs to sit and stay while I step in front of them, we were to drop their leashes and take a huge step backwards. I was really nervous about doing that because there were other dogs around the park outside of our group and Chance had this body language as if he was going to jump up and take off. So, when standing apart from him, I had to remind him several times to stay. He did and I was proud of him. Maybe it is ME that needs the training, not my dogs??

That's it. Later...

Day 4

2006-04-15T12:02:00.000-07:00

Another wet day! Just had another April showers, so the park was wet again.

Chance and Sheli learned two new things today. One was to sit and stay while I walked in front of them and around them. They were to stay put. Then we all walked in a single line following each other. Dogs do not like other dogs behind them, so they turn their heads often to see how close they are. They had to learn to ignore them and to continue walking in confidence. That was a bit of a challenge at first because the lady in front of me had a toy poodle and all she wanted to do was jump up on her owner. The lady kept stopping to correct her dog and I couldn't walk any slower than this and Sheli would start snooping the ground. We were to keep them upright and walking. Then when we turned around 180 degrees, I was behind the American Eskimo who was rather hyper. He doesn't seem to follow his master. From what I've observed, it is the owner that doesn't keep up with the training or do exactly what Andy instructed him to do. He is Asian and doubt he speaks qualitiative English. I also noticed that every time Andy talked to him, he wouldn't look at him in the eyes, but maintained a fixed stare to the ground. Cultural? Subordination? Anyway, finally, we all walked up to the top of the hill where there was a pathway for people to walk on. We sat our dogs on a single line and made them stay, hoping that people would pass by with their dogs or children to tempt our dogs. But, unfortunately there were no one around. I think it was too wet for a lot of people to be out because it had just rained. Bummer.

I'm so glad to be off this week on Spring Break so I can really focus on training. I'll be taking my dogs to various places where there are a lot of people and dogs (beach, different parks, post office, etc). I really want to jackhammer into my dogs that they are to ignore all people and, especially, dogs until released (when I say, "Ok.") Being released means they are free to play and not be in sit/stay position. Looking forward to it.

Andy has decided that Chance needs to go on the pinch-collar (also known as the prongs). It is not intended to hurt him, but to give him a little bit more of a nudge so he won't continue to go his ways while walking. With the choker chain that he's been working with, he does very well, but he is easily distracted when other dogs come by and he starts pulling and the chain does nothing for him. I have to give it a quick and sharp pull to make him sit, but with other dogs around, it doesn't work. So, Andy wants to try with the pinch-collar and has warned me to give it a less pull than I would with the choker chain. Just enough for him to feel a slight pinch, then he'd stop, hopefully. So, I'll try it this week. Andy said it is not abusive or harmful as long as I use it appropriately. Of course, I wouldn't want to hurt my boy. The worst of all collars is the electrical one and that I will avoid, period. I suspect Chance will do much better with the prongs, however, as soon as he gets it and adheres to my command to ignore other dogs, I will retreat to the chain choker. I mentioned to Andy that when I first brought Chance home, we lived in an apartment with no access to a yard and that I had to walk him around the block just to go potty (as well as to get exercise), so that was what he knew for a whole year living there. He would walk to the grass and sniff and find places to urinate or the other one. Now and living with access to front and back yards, he still has old habits to want to go and sniff on the grass as he wishes. Andy says that it is time to correct that and tell him to go only at home. He would walk by my side without trying to go to the side grasses because I give him a pull on his chain and he responds well, however he would out of the blue stop on the sidewalk and go number 2. He doesn't even wait until we get to a grass or arrive at home. He just goes. I didn't mention that to Andy, but I wonder if that was ok. It wouldn't be like I could correct that, especially when in action. I never know when he's going to go. Hmm...but that's not like a nuisance for me as long as I just pick it up and we proceed on our walk.

As for Sheli, she seems to already acquired the skill and knowledge for walking without pulling. She does so well. As for eliminating herself, she doesn't. She waits until we get home or until I've given her the release ("Ok") and then she would feel free to go if she felt she had to. But, she tends to wait until we get home. I still haven't walked both of them at the same time yet because they're still learning to stay by my side. I'm going to wait until Andy shows me how to walk both at the same time. I tried it, but they get excited when together and want to play and go forth in front of me.

Alright, enough said for now. See you next week for Day 5.

Day 3

2006-04-08T12:56:00.000-07:00

Today was a bit more frustrating day at the training. Perhaps it was just me. We, humans, have less patience for everything. I guess I wanted them to be perfectly and completely trained by now, but I have to remember that this is only the 2nd day of actual training and that they've only been practicing for a week now.

Sheli did fantastic and was the model student today. However, after 30 minutes, she began to get frustrated and didn't want to continue. She started to gruff. Andy said that an hour of training is realistically too long for dogs, but because we pay a lot of money, he gives us an hour so we can feel our money's well spent. But, in reality, dogs only need 2-5 minutes of training sessions 2-3 times a day. That's all. So, perhaps that was why Sheli was starting to slack. She wouldn't respond to my commands. Not only that, but later I saw there was a smashed-into-the-grass poop from someone's dog and we were close to it and she didn't feel comfortable with that. She kept wanting to move away from the spot we were standing/sitting. When I saw the soiled area, it came to mind that perhaps it was what was bothering her, so I moved her to a different location. But, by then it was already an hour and she was tired. I have to give her credit for good work, even though I wasn't 100% satisfied.

Chance did good too, but likewise, he was more distracted today than last Saturday. He replied well to my commands to ignore other dogs, but eventually he wouldn't want to automatically sit when we stop walking. He'd rather stand and look at other dogs (not those in the class but those that were walking all over the park -- today was a gorgeous sunny day and so many people were out with their dogs). Finally Andy and I switched dogs and he had Chance and it was half way through the class and I think he became the same way Sheli was, tired of the lessons and wanted to "just be dogs." They actually did good, but it is just me that wasn't all that hippy-hoppy-happy. I guess I need to be trained in patience!

I will commit more time in training both of them individually outside of the house, going to different locations with a lot of distractions (people, dogs, other animals, toys, etc) and practice. It's just so hard to have to leave the house for a few minutes, then come back home and switch dogs and then go back out and doing that a few times throughout the day. But, if I want good results, I must make the sacrifice.

I'm tired. I have a farewell party to go to this afternoon way out close to the same area of training. Just thinking about the repetitive trips back and forth is just draining me. But, they are important friends, just as my dogs' training are.

Sigh...

So long, until next time.

The big O N E!!

2006-04-08T06:52:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to YOU!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to YOU!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SWEET SHELI!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOUUUUUUUUUU!!!

Sheli turns 1 today! That's my girl.

Monthly newsletter

2006-04-06T18:45:00.000-07:00

My trainer has his own monthly newsletter that he distributes to all of his trainees, friends, and family via email. I hope he continues to keep me on his list after we finish our training session. I will most likely enroll both of my dogs in his advanced class. So, I'll be on his list for a while. Anyway...the reason of this entry is I liked the opening article from his newsletter. He has about 2-3 pages of news in each issue. Read along...

(An excerpt of Andy's article from this month's newsletter) I don't want to put his last name and name of his newsletter in here only to protect his identity and from it being duplicated. I want to resect his copyrights.

Wow! The month of March was crazy for us. We moved into a new location, a Police K9 Academy, a Detection Dog Academy, a Basic Group Obedience Class started, No phone system, No Internet, Lamaze class, Breast Feeding class and the flu! How fun is that..?

It is times like this where us dog lovers say, "Thank God for our dog." It is our dogs who gives us unconditional love and undeterred companionship. Especially on those days where you come home from a stressful day and there they are, right at your feet and wagging their tails.

There I was lying on what seemed to be my death bed a week ago. The flu bug had hit me hard. I hadn't slept well and was just a little cranky. Then Montana (our yellow lab), who is "never" allowed on the furniture, quietly and with what seemed to be with the purpose of trying to make me feel better, slithered up onto the couch and laid up against me in the perfect spooning position. I patted her on the head and within seconds I finally fell into a deep sleep. Thank god for Montana.

Please always remember, whether your dog is a police dog, detection dog, security dog or home companion dog, it is your responsibility to care for them and return some of that unconditional love.

He's so right! Dogs remind us on how to love others in return. They're wonderful beings and a great creation that God made for us.

2006-04-06T15:55:00.000-07:00

One Saturday morning a few weeks ago. They were just resting outside, laying next to each other, in the front yard, as usual. They seem to always sit really close to each other. I like that about them, being so close. Anyhoo, they're my gems.

Gotta water the grass! You can tell, eh?

2006-04-06T15:50:00.000-07:00

Just a snapshot of them in the car when we were on our daily outings. They loved resting on the back seat so they could get a good view of the front. However, I just put back up the doggie bars so now they can't do this anymore. It's safer to have the bars up than be 'loose.'

Which is which? You have to guess.

Day 2

2006-04-01T12:55:00.000-08:00

It was raining overnight and early in the morning. I was worried that I would have had to put off training for another week, but by 9am it started to become sunny. I was relieved. My friend with the Italian Greyhound (also the interpreter) backed her dog out of training because she felt that aversive training will not be the best for Merlot (her dog). She wanted to stick with the lure training that she's been doing. She wants Merlot to be a good dog, but she didn't want her to shut-down... blah blah blah... So, she didn't go with me today. She said she was still willing to go with me to interpret anyway. That was nice of her to offer because it is really going out of her way to do something for 8 weeks. I ended up going alone with my two dogs and I sure am very glad I did. It was worth the trip!

Only 3 showed up (the Rott, American Eskimo, and a newly joined pup -- 5-months old Chocolate Lab, plus my two dogs). Most people, I guess, decided to stay home because it was possible that it could start raining again. It was rather wet outside, but it didn't rain the whole time we were there. In fact, just as we finished class, the sun broke out and it was beautiful! The park is just so gorgeous! It's hilly with trees and has several lakes. Right now as I'm typing this, it is bright and balmy.

We learned how to sit our dogs and to keep them in a sitting position for a long time. Dogs get bored easily and try to get out of it and it was our duty today to keep them under control and in sitting position, no matter how long we were standing. They were also to stay on our left side. Andy, the trainer, took Chance today as a model. I had Sheli. I am very P R O U D of Chance! He was the best! He responded immediately to Andy and learned quickly! I had him on a choker chain (it doesn't choke them and I don't know why they call it that). I didn't have one for Sheli today, but she will have one by next week. Sheli was a bit more stubborn and would rather play with the other dogs, but once she got the hang of it, she did well. Then we learned to "heel" and walk with loose leash. Chance, again, did it! My chest puffed up for him! Sheli is still learning. She still wants to lead the way. I am to work on those two lessons with each of them every day for a week.

When we got home, I decided to test them again and see if they remembered the lesson without me having to tell them anything. Sure enough, they both passed! I took Chance with the leash and he stayed by my left side without pulling me. (I wonder if that was because we were in our yard and not outside yet, but we'll get there). Then as soon as I stopped walking, I had to remind him only once by quickly pulling up on his chain and as quickly release. He sat down. Then he did it all on his own after that. Sheli did great too. Yay!!!

Oh, by the way, at the park, there was a small dog that got loose (not someone from our group, but just a passerby) and it went after two huge dogs down the hill. The woman with the two dogs couldn't hold her dogs and she was literally dragged on the wet grass. The smaller dog went straight to them and the woman tried to tell its owner to keep it away, but he was way up at the top of the hill and just walked down there rather slowly. He didn't try to hurry up and/or help the poor woman on the ground with her arms twisted and crossed with the two dogs pulling her. All the while, I had Chance and he tried to go to them and all I did was a quick pull on the leash and he sat down immediately and just watched from the distance, by my side. I was really pleased. Andy had Sheli and he did the same and she responded after a second time. Finally the man got his dog up and still didn't help the woman up. I felt so bad for her. I know the feeling. My dogs did the exact same thing with me. I fell to the ground, yes, but I was stronger and got a better grip than she did. She was a lot older than I was. I was glad she was able to hold on to them. Andy was just about to go and help her, but she got up. Wow! I am so glad Chance and Sheli responded fast today! I'm elated.

Right now as I'm typing this, they're napping.

Adios for now. See you next Saturday!

Training

2006-03-25T17:12:00.000-08:00

Today was the first day of my dogs' 9-weeks-long training with Falco K-9 Academy. And today was just an orientation. I was able to meet the trainer who is a police officer and has been for the past 20 years a police K-9 trainer. He just started his own business a few years ago as a private obedience dog trainer. He has a lot of experience in this field and has come across so many different kinds of training and he said he has even seen (and was trained) to teach dogs with physical cruelty and that just clashed with his personal philosophy of how animals are trained. So, as a result, he decided to open his own police K-9 training. He seemed to know his stuff and I was impressed, so I am looking forward to starting the actual training next Saturday. I wanted my dogs to have similiar training that K-9ers have but with, of course, the exception of the part where they are taught to bite. I believe it will come naturally if the situation is deemed necessary, but they won't be specifically trained to do that.

There were 5 other dogs/owners there plus me/my 2 dogs. One was a tan toy poodle, one was my friend's mini Italian Greyhound, one was a Beligian Shepherd, one was a Rottsweiler, one was a white American Eskimo, and my two Labs. My dogs were so excited when they saw other dogs (of course) and naturally, they'd pull me like a train. I gashed my right hand along the stucco when we went upstairs because both dogs were running ahead of me and I had each on each side of me in tight rein, but I had to keep my balance as well so to keep them along my sides and going upstairs at the same time. Now, my hand is pretty sore but it's alright.

Andy started by telling the class that dogs and humans are different, period. We can't expect dogs to understand us when we discipline them. Like I didn't know that already. I treat my dogs like they're my children, so to speak. But, I know they can't understand the same way we people do. But, listening to him tell us different ways that we are different. It was interesting. The thing dogs are looking for is (like children) owners that have healthy and good sense of control. They need structure. Otherwise, they are instinctural. We must expect them to make more mistakes than human because we rationalize everything and we KNOW of consequences that follow any broken rules while dogs don't. They learn to associate positive responses with the action. Hello! I already knew that, but it was very reassuring to hear all of this.

Oh, I forgot to add that a friend of mine, who has the Greyhound, is a professional ASL interpreter, so she will interpret the whole training session for free. I'm really grateful for that. She gets to enroll her dog in turn. I also bought her lunch and will probably buy other lunches to express my appreciation for her service.

So, no actual training will begin until next Saturday. I can't wait. I saw a video tape of Andy with 2 German Shepherd pet dogs of a middle-aged woman. She got those two dogs and never really taught them obedience and they grew so big and strong that they started biting her arm and pulling her down to the ground (like they do with the "bad guys," only they weren't trained but had the predisposition for that behavior). She finally called Andy for help. The dogs were also violently aggressive toward other animals and women (for some reason). After training, they were able to walk on his side without pulling and sit/stand still when other animals and women (especially with children) walked past them. Before: they used to pull and chase them down. After: they just sat there and did not flinch a muscle. In fact, it was Andy's 10-year-old daughter who were holding the leashes and they weighed 2 or 3 times her weight. I was truly impressed. My dogs aren't aggressive, thank goodness! But, they need the training where they will be like those Shepherds, just sitting by my side without pulling a muscle when other dogs pass by. Labs are social dogs and love flirting with others. But, it can be a nuisance sometimes. So, I look forward to the end of the training and see the completely transformed dogs they'll become.

Check back after next Saturday to see more news.

2006-03-20T19:16:00.000-08:00

Sheli napping on my brown chair. This is her only opportunity to be on any furniture, except for in the morning when my alarm goes off; she gets a few minutes on my bed before we all get off for the day. Chance has his "spot" on my bed and Sheli has none, so this is her special spot.

All white and fluffy!

2006-03-07T18:22:00.000-08:00

Chance & Sheli went to the vet today to be bathed, nails clipped, ears cleaned, dewormed, and Advantaged. Chance was scheduled to have his teeth cleaned, but the doctor called me at work saying he didn't need it. I'm glad he didn't have to have it because in order to have their teeths cleaned, they have to be put under anesthesia and that's hard on their bodies. So, I guess his teeth still looks good for his age. Maybe in a year or two.

Chance weighed 72lbs! I don't think so. He's eating the same amount of foods for a long time. Just last month when he went in for his final ear check up, he weighed 62lbs and he couldn't have possibly put on 10lbs in one month! I truly think it's a mistake on their part. Chance looks rather slim and his abdomen slicks inward. Sheli weighs 49.7, almost 50 lbs! She still looks really slender and small in proportion (paws, head, frame), but she's as tall as Chance. Chance has that beefy look to him and because Nicky (my late Lab) was a male and had that look as well; now I think it is a male thing. Male Labs have excess skin around their necks while, I noticed, female Labs don't have as much (sort of like a lion vs. lioness). Sheli's still growing and probably will stop in about 6 or so more months. She's only 11 months. Chance is 22.

I most loved seeing both of them desperately pull against the leash when they saw me from the back of the doctor's office. They just couldn't wait to get to my feet. Exchanged hugs and kisses and then off to home we went. :-) That's what's new for today with my pups.

The back yard is a mess! Well, sort of.

2006-03-03T11:25:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week, we had a downpour for a couple of days and then again last night. While I LOVE the rain and wouldn't mind it to be raining on a daily basis, the only reason why I grumble and whine when it does these days is because my back yard is full of dirt patches and when it becomes wet, you can only imagine the unimaginable!

I've been doing some "work" in the back. I put in the ground some stepping stones to go from the concrete area across the grass to the side of the house where the grass meets the concrete again. In the process, I had to dig up a lot of dirt and made a long pile on one side of the yard. That made a huge mess and after the stones were put in, I tried to remove the dirt from the side as much as I could, but it was hard. A lot of it covered the grass that was underneath. Then when I had to water the whole yard, it became nothing but a large puddle of mud that took several days to dry. It was awkward letting the dogs out to go potty in the back without them bringing in mud from their paws into the house. Good thing I have an enclosed front yard too so they could go there to potty or play. The dogs also made a wear and tear on the other side of the back yard between the nectarine tree, which stands in the center of the yard, and the lattice fence that separates my back yard and the park. When they play their chase-me-game, they tend to run on the 'beaten path,' which is the one just explained in the previous sentence. So, you can only imagine that almost the whole back yard is nothing but dirt with bits of grass here and there.

I also pulled out a lot of old plants and planted some prickly (and I mean, ouch! sharp thorns!) bushes alongside the lattice fence because that is where the children from the other side of the fence come and play with my dogs. I don't mind them playing with my dogs, but when they stick their hands inside my yard and give stuff (I've found chewed up pencils, candy wrappers, juice containers, and what nots). Sheli is still small enough that she could crawl (or be pulled) from under the fence. There's a gap from the ground to the bottom of the fence. So, those bushes and edgers made an 8 or so inches in width from the fence so now, the kids can't put their hands in, or Sheli can't go to the gap, without getting pricked. I want to plant some ground cover or some sort of non-toxic flowers (always got to think of my dogs) that will encircle the nectarine tree. I used to have some kind of green plants there, but I pulled them all out and now it's just a circle of dirt inside a ring of edgers.

I can't wait until the grass starts to grow and is thick and strong again. I can see baby grass growing, but they are so fragile and thin that they get squished if walked on.

I went to Home Depot after the rain stopped earlier this week to buy an 8'l x 3'h wooden lattice fence (matches the one I put in last summer)and converted it into a gate of a kind to separate the concrete from the grass to be used during raining days or on those days that I decide to water the yard. My father helped me bolt it to the the outside stucco wall. (Thanks, Dad!) He even put a wheel on the other end of it so I could roll it to the side of the house easily when not in use. It stands nicely against the house and the dogs can still have access to the grass, unless it's closed off. Now, I feel so much better knowing that the dogs can still get outside and eliminate themselves on the concrete without bringing in mud or dirt from the rain on the days I'm gone at work (or out for any other reason, for that matter). I used to worry about leaving them inside the house and not giving them access to the back while I was gone. They are accustomed to being able to go outside at any time they desire to since they were really young. They weren't trained to hold it off for hours like some apartment or condo/townhouse dogs are. I also used to bring them over to my parent's house on rainy days but now that my sister adopted a cute little black dog, it has been a bit of a problem. Minnie, her dog, seems to not have had much interaction with other dogs before, so when my dogs come over, she becomes nervous or scared and that makes my sister nervous too. My dogs just want to play and they play hard (still very young puppies, my dogs). Minnie's 3 years old, I think and both of mine are still 1 and under. So now that newly posted "gate" gives me some peace. Whew.

When it rained last night, I was going to use that new gate when I went to work today, but it turned out that I became very sick with the head flu last night and I was miserable when I woke up. I did not even sleep at all last night. I have not felt this way in a long time!! I decided to stay home from work today. Today's Friday anyway, so perhaps it is a good time to observe how they handle the gate from looking out through the window. Since it is only three feet high, they could jump over it. I don't think they will because my dogs are not "jumpers," but it would allow me to ensure of that. So far, they've been keeping cozy and warm inside. Chance doesn't go out much during the rain. Sheli would, but because I'm home, she'd rather stay by my side :-)

Alright, I better get off and rest. I'm starting to feel icky again. I was feeling just a bit better for a while. You know how it comes in waves. Maybe I should join my dogs for a short nap.

More later...

2006-03-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

You're leaving for work again! Yesterday, you stayed home and we had fun all day. Can't you stay home again today? Aw!

Chomp...munch...gulp. Thanks! That cookie was barkilicous! Momma gives us a cookie at the gate every time she leaves the house.

"You be a good girl, good boy. I'll be back. I love you. Bye bye," Momma routinely says to them. Engine turns over.

Vvvrrrooom! Up the driveway she goes. Now, what do you wanna do? Let's snoop around for snails, Chance says.

No, let's poop and eat it! I think I'm still hungry. says Sheli.

Oh man! You really gonna stop that habit. I can't even stand it anymore, gal!

Really? Yeah, I guess I should. That would make Momma happy, eh?

You'd get showered with praises and toys if you did. Okay, what do you want to do now?

Hmm...I know! I know! Let's find a plant to pull out of the ground.

Sigh! You're a riot, Shel!

Is that a yes or a no?

Come on, let's go back inside the house and get warmed up. It's a bit cold out here.

Romp...romp...niff...sniff...romp...sashaying all the way back, through the doggie door, into the dining room, and plomp onto the beddings they go.

Hey, I found a toy. Play with me!

Oh, alright, sister. OKay, lets see who hold on to the rope longer and when I win, you'll let me nap a bit, okay?

When YOU win??? Nudge, lick...lick. Yeah! Let's play!

It's more than that

2006-02-18T08:33:00.000-08:00

Musings by Richard Biby, Contributing Editor Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a dog," or, "that's a lot of money for just a dog." They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for "just a dog."

Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog." Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog," but I did not once feel slighted. Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog," and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably understand phases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a promise."

"Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. "Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person. Because of "just a dog" I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future.

So, for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment. "Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog" but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being "just a man." So the next time you hear the phrase, "just a dog," just smile, because they "just don't understand."

(Sent via email from a good friend and a dog lover herself, and someone who understands what it is like having a dog that is way more than being "just a dog." Thanks, Lori.)

2006-02-18T08:28:00.000-08:00

Here's a post from Dave Berry, originally published on Dec. 12, 1993. His blog is fun to read sometimes. This one is about dogs. Read along...

I want to talk about the hidden lives of my dogs.

Until recently, I wasn't aware that my dogs had hidden lives. There were many times, such as when they'd take turns repeatedly eating a deceased lizard and throwing it back up, when I wasn't even sure they had brains. Then I got ''The Hidden Life of Dogs,'' the best-selling book by Elizabeth Marshall Thomas, who has some astounding insights into dog behavior. For example, in an effort to find out what dogs do when
they're on their own, she spent months following a husky named Misha as he roamed all over Cambridge, Mass.

What Thomas discovered was that Misha, who at first appeared to be simply trotting around aimlessly, was in fact earning a degree from Harvard Business School. No, I am joshing. Harvard does not accept huskies unless their parents are extremely wealthy. What Thomas discovered, after much observation, was that Misha spent his time -- and here I will attempt to summarize two full chapters of ''The Hidden Life
of Dogs'' -- sniffing other dogs and peeing a lot. This might not strike you dog-owners as all that deep of an insight. But trust me, it seems like one when you're reading the book.

Because where you might see just a plain old dog engaging in non-rocket-scientist behavior, Thomas sees a highly sophisticated organism responding to elaborate socio-biological stimuli and performing complex problem-solving tasks. It's not her fault that the solution to the problem is usually to pee on it. Anyway, reading this book got me to thinking about my own dogs. Did they have a hidden life? If so, could I
discover it, and -- more important -- write a best-selling book?

To find out, I removed my dogs from the confined, controlled environment of our house and put them outside, where they were free to reveal their hidden lives. I observed them closely for the better part of a day, and thus I am able to reveal here, for the first time anywhere, that what dogs do, when they are able to make their own decisions in accordance with their unfettered natural instincts, is: Try to get back inside the house. They spent most of the day pressing sad moony faces up against the glass patio door, taking only occasional breaks to see if it was a good idea to eat worms (Answer: No).

Of course, the dogs have important and complex socio-biological reasons for wanting to get back into the house. For one thing, the house contains the most wondrous thing in the world: the kitchen counter. One time a piece of turkey fell off of it. The dogs still regularly visit the spot where it landed, in case it shows up again. There's an invisible Dog Historic Marker there. Another reason is that the house
provides a better echo for barking. Dogs employ barking as a vital means of communicating important messages, such as: ''bark.''

Barking also serves a vital biological purpose: If a dog does not release a certain number of barks per day, they will back up, and the dog will explode. (Whenever you hear an unexplained loud noise in the distance, it's probably a dog exploding.) Our large main dog, Earnest, spends her day sleeping directly under my desk, and three or four times a day she'll have a pressure buildup, causing her to wake up, lift her
head, release a bark and immediately go back to sleep. Her bark, traveling at the speed of bark, quickly reaches our small emergency backup dog, Zippy, who is sleeping elsewhere in the house. He wakes up and rushes up to the outside of my office door and starts barking at it, because there is clearly something wrong inside. (Why else would Earnest have barked?) This in turn awakens Earnest, who leaps up, bonks her head against the bottom of my desk, then rushes over and starts barking at her side of the door. Each dog is firmly convinced that there is Big
Trouble on the other side, possibly involving their arch-enemy, the U.S. Postal Service truck. It comes around every day, and usually Earnest and Zippy are able to drive it off by barking at it and getting spit all over the windows by our front door, but now apparently the truck somehow has GOTTEN INTO THE HOUSE and is ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THIS DOOR BARK BARK BARK BARKBARKBARKBARK!!! This is what my dogs are thinking (if ''thinking'' is the word I want here) as I get up, walk past Earnest,
who is now insane with rage, and open the door. Instantly Earnest charges BARKBARKBARK into the hall, narrowly missing Zippy, who is charging BARKBARKBARK into my office. Each one goes about five feet, then -- WAIT a minute!! -- skids to a stop, whirls around, and charges back the other way, still barking. Sometimes they'll pass each other three or four times before they run out of momentum and lie down again, confident that, thanks to their alertness, the house is once again safe.

This is the hidden dog world that goes on every day in our house. I admit that, socio-biologically, it is not as interesting as the things that Elizabeth Marshall Thomas' dogs do. But Earnest and Zippy are the only dogs I have. Make me an offer.

Holiday pictures

2005-12-30T19:27:00.000-08:00

Sheli woke me up at 6:30am as usual. I got up and made some fresh coffee and while I was waiting for that to brew, my sister paged me saying that everyone at my folk's house was up and waiting for us (me and my dogs, of course) to arrive. I thought they'd want to sleep in a little bit, but I guess not. As soon I poured my pot of coffee into a thermos, put on my sweat pants and tennis shoes, we were enroute to the house.

Chance had a second opportunity this year to shred boxes and wrapping paper into pieces. Sheli seemed to enjoy it more than he did. She'd stick to doing that for hours at one time. I only took one picture to give you an idea. But, this went on for most of the morning and the house was a total wreck. Okay...okay...it wasn't all my dogs. There were 3 kids there and 6 adults that allowed their inner-child to emerge on this fun morning.

When we all finished opening our gifts and had breakfast my dogs and I were resting (and took a pose) by the fireplace. Don't they look alike? Can you guess which is which?

After we all got ready and were on our way out to my aunt Julie's house for our annual Christmas dinner, the dogs and I posed once more for the day.

2005-12-22T18:50:00.000-08:00

Its the same Choc Lab under a mistletoe with Molly, his girlfriend. Those doggies are just soooooo cute!

2005-12-21T15:07:00.000-08:00

Today, the dogs went to the vet to be bathed, nails clipped, ears cleaned (and Chance -- doctor recheck his already infected ear...still has it and is now on oral medication, again!) They looked all fluffy and clean except for three shiny spots on their backs where they applied Advantage. The shine will go away in a day, but they looked so fuzzy. They were so glad to see me in the front of the office when they were bought out. It reminded me of Nicky whenever I left him at the vet and upon picking him up, he used to always pull the attendant with his full strength and beam with delight, almost as if he was smiling, when he saw me up front. Chance had that exact same look today. It touched me. Sheli is still young enough to be curious as to what was around her, but when she got to my feet, she realized it was me and jumped up on me. It is always cherishing when they show their affection.

It's been a while since I had them weighed and I was relieved to see that Chance was still 66lbs. I was a bit worried he might have begun to put on some weight. I guess male Labs just already look stocky that it looks like they're overweight. Plus the fact that they have all that extra skin. But, I was refering to his tummy, so I was relieved. But, I need to keep him under 65. As for Sheli, she's always been very slim (quite the athletic one). She now weighs 45lbs. Getting bigger, but still very small.

I should take pictures of them, but right now they're napping and looking as if they've had a busy day at the vet. Plus, it's getting dark outside and I'll be leaving shortly to go down to Sleepy Hallow with my family to look at the beautiful Christmas lights. So, pictures will have to wait until the weekend during Christmas.

Have yourself a very merry holiday! And a happy new year!

2005-12-09T06:29:00.000-08:00

See a Chocolate Labrador playing in the snow and bringing us a pretty christmas tree.

Helicopter! Bird!

2005-11-28T21:11:00.000-08:00

While taking one of the many shoots for the Christmas card, this one is a blooper. Just as Jack, my neighbor and the one taking the photos, pushed the button both dogs looked up at the bright green helicopter that was flying rather low and over us. It would've been a great picture, but they were quicker than Jack's index finger! Bummer! But, I've already picked the one I liked the best for the cards. I won't post it in here because then everyone will already have seen it. The above picture reminds me of one of the pictures I took with Chance last year for our Christmas card. Look below. Both times, Chance looked up! And it was just a really huge seagull, flying really low! Weird, eh? Something about wings...

Portraits taken

2005-11-27T11:30:00.000-08:00

On this beautiful Sunday morning, Chance, Sheli & I had our annual Christmas pictures taken. 'Course, this year is Sheli's first time. I like having my pictures taken with my doggies every year. Right now I'm waiting for the person who took the pictures to burn a CD with the shots. Once that's done, I'll get it printed and sent out. So, be on the lookout for one in your mailbox sometime in mid-December. :-)

Who's here?

2005-11-24T12:20:00.000-08:00

I'd like to know who comes in here and views this blog. Please make a comment or two. I'd love to hear from you!

2005-11-24T11:25:00.000-08:00

Right after their visit to the dog park.

Happy Woofsgiving!

2005-11-24T08:25:00.000-08:00

Chance & Sheli ruffs a Happy Thanksgiving to all of you.

As their mama, I'm thankful for my doggies. God has blessed me with those two huggable dogs.

Miss. Cool

2005-11-20T17:43:00.000-08:00

Sheli - lying on the cool grass in the midst of the blistering-90-degrees-afternoon. The weather feels like it's at the peak of summer time and it's a late November day! I wished it would cool down quite a bit. Anyway, I was inside doing stuff when I walked by the front door and saw both dogs lying outside. Chance was at the side of the house under the shade. Sheli was right by the flowerbed and I thought it was a pretty sight, so I went inside and grabbed my camera. Good thing Sheli was still at the same spot so I could take this. This is at 7 1/2 months. Just in a couple weeks, she'll turn 8 months and I can't believe how fast time goes.

Nov 11-14

2005-11-19T07:10:00.000-08:00

I was in Minneapolis teaching a weekend class at North Central University. I teach an online course with them from home every Monday nights, but this was a "fly-in" weekend. It was fun and nice to see my students in person as well as the other folks that I met before.

While I was away, a friend of mine stayed at my house and took care of my dogs. All the while, she took daily pictures of my dogs with her sidekick and sent them to me. I enjoyed getting them and seeing what my babies were doing during the day while I was gone. They were fine and had fun playing with each other, as usual. At times, they'd lie together outside in the front and by the gate waiting for me. I was almost dreaming that my dogs were with me in MN because the houses there have a lot of land...plenty of room for my dogs to run and play in. Too bad Southern California (LA) areas do not have that much land. Maybe one day I'll move....to MN? Maybe....maybe not.

Here are some shots.
On Friday, the day I left for Mpls. They were just sunbasking by the front door.

This was on Saturday morning. They were lying right by the front gate as if they were waiting for me to return.

On Sunday morning at breakfast time. This is a fuzzy picture, but you can get the idea of their daily routine. Sheli finishes first before Chance begins eating. Then she would sit by the sink and watch him finish his dish. Once he's done, he'll go outside and she'll survey his dish area for any left over morsels of dry food to devour. And she usually finds none, but when she does it looks like she won a championship.

Where did the time go?

2005-11-08T06:30:00.000-08:00

This was taken one morning on my way out to work last week. They have a routine of following me to the front gate and sit down and wait for their treats. Then after they chomp away, they're kissed and hugged and told that I'll be back and to be a good girl and a good boy. Then they watch me drive away before they go on with their own agenda for the day.

It feels like only a few days since I last wrote, but when I came back in here to see, I couldn't believe it's been a month!

Well, both of my dogs are good. Sheli turned 7 months this week. She's no longer crated at nights and sleeps in her new round and plushy bedding. She loves it and stays there during the night, however because she's free and not bound inside something, the first few nights, she didn't know what to do when she wasn't sleeping. She would wake me up several times during the night and I thought she just wanted to play. But then I thought she might need to go outside to pee, so I let her and she did. Then again, and I thought perhaps she's just up and ready to play, but when I told her no and to stay put in her bed, she did. Now, she's getting the hang of it and doesn't bother me. She'd only wake me up if she needs to go to the bathroom (which is wonderful! because I keep the back screen door closed at nights to prevent from other small critters that live in that huge tree just right outside my yard from coming in, or from my dogs going out and barking in the wee hours at them and I'm sound asleep not being able to hear them). So, it worked out great.

I just bought them several new toys which they destroy in the same day they got them. Their favorite game to play with each other is tug-o-war. They always pick up a toy and go to the other and indicate that they wanted to play. The other would get up and go after it and once they both have the toy in their mouths, they pull...pull...growl...pull...run together side-by-side with both mouths clamped on the toy...pull....growl...pull....pull...R I P! Uh oh! There goes the new toy. Then their next favorite game is pulling out the white foams from inside the game and try to find the squeaky or talking device that's inside the toy. I always have to remove that from the floor. They don't eat it, but it worries me that because they are too excited and into the moment that they'll forget and swallow a piece.

Chance's blue couch that was in their day room when they're locked up during the day, is destroyed. Well, not like what you may imagine "destroyed," but the inside is all ripped and torn. Sheli just found a button on there and pulled it off then Uh! There's foam! Yay! Lets dig in there and have a blast (which is just her and Chance sits by and watches, knowing she'd get into trouble). I come home from work almost every day finding new foam every where. Sigh. Finally, I threw it away. Sheli still has her pink one that they share. There are buttons on the inside of hers also, but she hasn't noticed them or isn't interested in that "toy" anymore. I hope it's the latter. She's a chewer, all right! She chewed up most of the toys into pieces. Now I need to buy a whole bucket of new toys! Oh, it's alright. I'm expected to do that. Chance wasn't ever a chewer. But, the girl is. Whew. OH, and a digger. But she hasn't dug another hole in weeks. Speaking of which, I need to re-seed or re-sod the back yard and fill up those few holes she dug. Chance is the easy one, now that I come to think about it. I used to think it was the other way around, but my bad.

Oh, I see the time and I'm running out of time. I'm still in my bathrobe and I need to get dressed and hit the road for work! There's much more to say about them, but that'll have to wait. I'll try to come back more often and put up more photos and clippings of my dawgs. Au revior!

Weird dreams

2005-10-10T09:10:00.000-07:00

Last night I had two different dreams, at different times, about both of my dogs. Both were sad dreams. In both dreams, I had to lose Sheli. The first dream was when my family and I were held hostage by some terrorists and I had found a way out, but I was only able to take one dog and leave the other behind. I don't know why or how it happened, but that was the way it was to be, so I took Chance with me. We took off running for safety and it broke my heart knowing that Sheli was left behind and probably looking all over for me. The second dream was when Sheli was just a baby and we all were going for a swim at a huge public pool. Chance waded in the small pool then got out just as I got out to change my clothes. Sheli was with me, but she'd gone off astray back into the pool area. After all dressed up, I had to follow her to catch her so we could go, but she was too fast and she jumped into the pool. The drainer in the pool, which was on the side of the pool, just sucked her in its way. I jumped into the pool in my dry and clean clothes and tried to swim toward her to save her, but there were so many kids in my way and I couldn't get to her in enough time. By the time I was close enough, she had already gone into the drainer and into the pipes that would take her out to the ocean. I got out immediately and ran to the life guards and asked them if they had a filer area where debris would be trapped in hopes that was where Sheli would be. THey said no. They said that everything went to the water cleaning factory in El Segundo before heading out to the ocean and it was probably too late to save her since there were no place for her to set foot on and she'd drown. I cried hard. I was thankful Chance was still with me and that he was not the one I lost, but I had missed Sheli so much! She was my comfort and affectionate one.

I don't know why I dreamed of losing her twice in one night. I hope this is not a prenominition or anything. I can't bear to lose either dog, at least not now.

Weird.

Back

2005-09-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

I was out of town visiting my nephew for 4 days. It was my first time leaving Sheli overnight. She was fine. My youngest sister took care of the dogs for me while I was gone. Chance was also fine, but he looked for me at the door every now and then. I was so glad to return home to them. Right now, Chance is lying on my bed with his head on my pillow. He tends to do that when he wants to be close to me. He likes the scent of me on my pillow. Sheli is lying at my feet (as usual) while I'm typing this.

In an hour, I need to take Chance back to the vet for another ear cleaning appointment. He has to go to the vet for that because it takes a few people to hold him to put anything inside his ears, while it's harder for me. He will let me to a limit, but not enough to get him healed, so it's best to go to the vet for that. On Sunday? It's open on a Sunday!? Yeah, I was surprised when Dr. Gilman said she was working Sunday. She knew I was going out of town from Thursday morning to Saturday night so she suggested Sunday at the earliest.

So glad today's Sunday. Another whole day with my dogs before I leave back for work again. It was nice having 2 days off on personal business.

See ya!

2005-09-14T05:54:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, I know. I returned to work a couple weeks ago and that's been keeping me occupied. Well, sure I have time in the evenings before I go to bed, but that's when I usually veg out. I become too tired at the end of the day to do anything, especially when it comes to racking my brain.

The dogs are doing great. Sheli's growing slowly. She seems to have stopped growing. Chance grew like a stubborn weed and fast. Sheli's quite the opposite. She started to grow fast in her first few months, but now she's slowed way down and is still half her brother's size. Well, she's only 5 months, so we'll see if she has another growth spurt soon.

It's been really hard on me at first when I had to leave my dogs at home alone all day long. During the summer, they were with me just practically 24/7. I've left them at home to run some errands for maybe a max of 4 hours and now it's 8 or more hours. It was hard for me. I missed them so much! And it was also really hard on my dogs at first. My neighbor tells me she checks on my dogs every now and then and she's heard Sheli more than Chance (he would every now and then, but more often from Sheli), cry for me sitting at the gate looking for me. That breaks my heart, but they are like any other children that's been left at home or a child care while their mommas or daddas left for work. When I get home, they are all over me! I literally have to put down my purse and key and whatever I had in my arms on the grass just right by the gate and get down on my knees to greet them. They moan sounds of relief when I hug them. I can feel the vibration of their voices on their sides. They are dear to me. They are what I look forward to coming home to.

Well, I better get ready for work. I'ts 6am now and I leave the house in 45 minutes. I'll try to be more contributing with this blog. I also better take some pictures because Sheli is growing, even if it doesn't seem to. I can tell she's maturing in a lot of areas.

Later!

It's time

2005-09-05T19:54:00.000-07:00

I've really enjoyed my whole summer off. I've had the whole 2 1/2 months off and spent it all with my dogs. I can't say I've had a better summer than this in a long time. Spending time with just my dogs has been so wonderful. Now, tomorrow I return to work and my dogs will have to stay home all by themselves until I return, which is usually around 3:15pm. Except for Tuesdays and Thursdays, I may see them for only 20 minutes max before I leave off for my 2nd job, teaching at the college. I am most certainly not looking forward to going back to work and especially because I have to leave my babies all day long now. I'll miss them big time. I also am worried about leaving them alone with the wasps flying around the lawns. Chance is extremely allergic to it and he could die if he gets stung again. And since I live adjacent to an elementary school, I worry that the kids will bother my dogs during the day. I really am stressed about it, but I must go on with life. I have to learn to trust God and let Him take care of my house and dogs while I make a living. It's hard, but I must tell myself to deny my "self" and to submit to the Spirit and let Him control everything. I'm trying so hard to control everything and I always end up really exhausted and feeling like I've failed everything. That's right. I'm no "god" nor do I have the power to control all out-of-my-hands circumstances. All I can do is trust in God. Easier said than done, right? "Oh, help me Lord to trust in You and to let go and rest in Your peace. I'm sorry for not trusting you lately."

2005-09-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting in my cozy chair in front of the TV on this early Sunday morning. My dogs are chewing on a dental bone. It's supposed to help keep their teeth clean and breaths fresh. Not that they needed it, but it's better than nothing at all. I also see a shiny wet spot on each of their backs that I don't want them to rub on the furniture or carpet or on each other in play yet until a couple hours from now. That is the Advantage I put on their backs once a month to prevent fleas.

I'm also just sitting here thinking of how much I really love my dogs. They are such a blessing to me. I feel so horrible for the people in the Katrina disaster and the losses of their pets. I just can not imagine going through that. I'd go crazy without my dogs! I already sort of went crazy (no, not crazy, but I definitely was a changed person) after losing Nicky. I can't imagine. My heart goes out to those people with great loss. All I can do is lift them up in prayer. And count my blessings while I have them.

Thank You, God for my gifts of animals You have entrusted in my care. May I continue to care for them the way You want me to. Keep them safe and well for many, many years to come. Comfort those with great losses in Louisiana and thereabout. Give them the strength to get through this trial. Provide for their needs. Touch the people's hearts that have not been affected by the hurricane to help those who have. Thank You, Amen.

Poor Sheli

2005-08-26T20:13:00.000-07:00

Today, she had an ovariohysterectomy (spay). I had to drop her off at the vet around 8am and she didn't get home until like 5pm. She hasn't eaten in 24 hours. She was sooo hungry when we got home. The vet said to give her a little bit of food. She's been groggy all evening and just as of half an hour ago is starting to get her energy up. Well, she's not playing around or the like, which is a good thing because she's not supposed to be playing for a few days to allow the sutures to heal. But, she's been delightfully savouring a pizzle treat. No wonder she's still hungry.

The vet said that Sheli was actually in heat when she came in today. It was the starting stage where her vulva would begin enlarging and she had some blood build up in her uterus, but it just hasn't begun to flow yet. She's so young! She turned 20 weeks today. No wonder some male dogs were particularly interested in her at the dog park. After we returned home, I had to clean her up a couple times because she had a little blood come out. Forgive me if this is TMI (too much information). I don't mean to embarrass or gross any one out, but this is real-life and what every one experiences in life.

Chance missed her today. He was more intimate with me today. I wonder if Sheli's made him more affectionate? I don't know, but boy! Was he glad to see her again this evening. I had to make sure he didn't play with her yet. He's been good with that. He's staying close to her. Well, right now she's in the living room on one of their bedding and I'm in my office and he is right by my feet.

I missed her also. I couldn't wait to get her home. When she slept this evening, I laid on the floor next to her while watching TV and it was a nice feeling to have her warm fur next to my stomach. She's becoming more special to me with each passing day.

I better go and see how she is doing at the moment and put some neosporin on her cut. Be back in a day or two. Oh, yeah and she now weighs 27lbs. :-)

Ha ha.

2005-08-23T14:39:00.000-07:00

My grandmother and mother came over to my house today. My grandmother came to drop something off and since my mom was already there (picked me up to get our pedicures done), we had a short chat. On our way out, the Fed Ex truck pulls up in front of my house and asks for a Jaymie. My right index finger pointed to my chest and he got the universal sign. It was a box I've been waiting for a couple of weeks. I had ordered some stuff from Drs. Foster & Smith (both are veterinarians and they have a store full of goodies, ranging from vaccination to toys). I've ordered stuff from them for Nicky years ago and it's been a while since I bought something from them. Anyway, while Gramma and my mom were standing outside by the car waiting for me, I decided to open the box quickly because I knew exactly what was in there and I wanted to show them one of the items. I sort of made an announcement to them, which made their faces squint with grimace. I proudly said, "My dogs have pizzles as treats." They didn't get it at first, so I had to clarify. I said, "My dogs will be chewing on Bull's *ahem* private parts." My mom thought it was testicles and I corrected her and said, "No, it's the other part." Both asked why I'd get such a thing for them and I smiled and said, "Dogs love 'em!" Hehe. I thought their response was funny and I knew I'd get that kind of response.

They are chewing on one each as I'm typing this. I also got them a couple new toys and some kind of "vitamin." Well...I'm off to make a video call, so see ya!

2005-08-21T20:25:00.000-07:00

Darlene and Molly comes over to visit! :-)

Darlene and her precious miniature Schnauzer dog, Molly, lived just right across street from me when I lived in Redondo Beach. We clicked and became instant friends and spent time together, whenever we could, when I lived in RB. It's been 4 months since I've seen her since Chance and I moved away. I've missed seeing Darlene on her daily walks with Molly. I've missed having "small talks" or "heart to heart" talks with her since I've moved. She was one of very few neighbors I've clicked with and really liked. Well, after several attempts in getting together over the summer, we finally made it to today! They came to my house. She lives in an adorable townhouse without a yard (only a nice patio with a side yard) and I have a front and back yard, so I thought it'd be easier on all of us if they came over. Whenever Chance and I used to go to Darlene's house, Chance would run around all over in her house and that embarrassed me sometimes.

We caught each other up over some fine cheese and French bread. We talked about the teaching profession and the positive and negative aspects of it. Darlene was a teacher for quite a while. After 20+ years in the education system, she retired as an administrator and it was nice she could relate and understand the things I've talked about pertaining my job. She was so sweet to express some empathy as to my already risen stress about returning back to work in just a couple of weeks from now. She's really lucky to be out of there and enjoying her free time doing the things she loves to do, such as golfing.

Sheli's been rather playful with Chance tonight (even got herself hurt in the process) and has attempted to play with 10-year-old Molly, who would just gruff every now and then. She'd retreat under the bistro table where we were sitting at to escape both of my dog's "request" for play. Then, when it was safe to come out, she'd wander about the yards. Chance knew Molly since he was really young (about 11 weeks old) and every time he sees her, he is delighted, just as I am when I see Darlene. It was Sheli's first time meeting them.

Anyway, as we were chatting outside the back patio, I picked up Sheli and Darlene thought it was a great shot to take, so she ran into the house to get my camera and took several shots. Then I called Chance and we all three took a shot together. So, the foto above is what Darlene took. Thanks, Darlene. I hope to see them again soon and not to let too much time pass. It's the same with Lori and Allie. We all have to stick together through thick and thin. :-) They're great folks!

Lookie here (click here)

2005-08-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

Here's a clip of both dogs at this time (at 2 months together). This was taken in my parent's back yard.

It's like Sheli is saying, "Mommy, watch me. Look. I can get Chance. Mommy, watch!" Poor Chance, he puts up a lot with her lunging at him. But, he enjoys play time with her.

(The duration is about 50 seconds and about 9.8MB)
*The video will automatically begin playing, but it takes time to download, so just be patient and wait until it begins playing :-)

It's here! Click here

2005-08-19T08:26:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine showed me how to upload video files and put it in here. Because this is a blog hosted by someone else, you won't get a direct video clipping from my blogspot, but you can be linked to where it will be shown. Now, I can put in video and other types of files in here! It'd be neat watching short videos, portraits, and read the stories. Thanks Darin!

This clipping is of Chance and Sheli on their 2nd day together. I'll add another one of them as of today (their 9th week together), so come back for that later.

*The video will automatically begin playing, but it takes time to download, so just be patient and wait until it begins playing :-)

Yowser!

2005-08-18T14:17:00.000-07:00

Look at the size of that! I'm glad neither Chance nor Sheli is that big! My head could fit in its mouth!

Who are they?, you may ask. I don't know. My friend forwarded me an email that was titled, "For all animal lovers" and this was one of the many cute pictures. I know it's not related to my dawgs or Labradors, but it's still an adorable dog and one that is mastifly huge!

2005-08-17T14:40:00.000-07:00

I've been working so hard (almost 3 days straight and non-stop) in trying to find out how to embed AVI (video) files onto this blog so you could view some of my dogs' video clippings by just a single click. I'm still working on that and it frustrates me when I'm not able to figure it out.

Be back soon...

2005-08-10T15:39:00.000-07:00

This was taken at my mother's house last week. He was looking out the front door. I just love his profile!

2005-08-10T15:32:00.000-07:00

Just a photo I took one afternoon when the two were out playing. I was inside and it was several minutes since I last saw them, so I went out to check on them and they were just sitting together by the wall. From this view (right outside my front door), I loved the way they blended in with the ambience, so I took this shot and I was glad they didn't move until I got my camera.

Fun Day with Allie

2005-08-10T15:16:00.000-07:00

2005-08-10T15:15:00.000-07:00

Lori and Allie came to my house to visit us (and to meet Sheli for the first time). The last time Chance and I saw them was when he was smaller than Allie! We went to the park up by her house (see blog entry for that story). It's been a while and it was wonderful to have time with them again, as it always is!

The dogs had a blast! They played for a few hours straight while Lori and I swapped our life stories (some stories were never finished). Allie is a water dog, alright. She jumped into the pool a couple times. She and Sheli basically swam in the drinking water bowl until it was empty (refilled many times). Both were so cute getting their fur wet. Chance would just stand by and watch them or grab the opportunity to lie down and pant a rest before getting back up again to play with Allie again. There would be times when Chance and Sheli would be at their usual play and Allie wanted so badly to participate. She'd gently nip either one's neck or ear then jump back. She was really vocal! Haha! So cute. The three of them related well.

The photo of all three at play (under the bench) was when I was trying to get a good view of them, but it was hard with them moving all the time. Sheli walked over from behind and fell on her head just as I took this shot. Shoot, we can't see her face, but we have a nice view of her *ahem* rump. Chance is on the left and Allie in the middle (you had to really look hard to see which was which, right?) The top photo was when the three were able to sit still for a few seconds (Chance's on the right). Thanks to Lori for helping by telling them to sit/stay. You can see Chance and Allie both looking up at her and Sheli looking straight into the lens (or was it her mama that she was rather looking at?)

Can't wait for another fun dog day again. I'm sure the dogs would woof in agreement.

It was sooooo good seeing the two of them! They looked great and very lean (both of them!) Allie was just a doll! Now both of my babies are zonked out for a nap. I'm sure Allie fell asleep in the car on their way home. Heh.

Another one!!!!!

2005-08-08T21:22:00.000-07:00

Aaaarrrrggghhh!!!! I found another pork chop in the yard! This time it was warm as if it was just out of the oven. I'm getting frustrated with this! Who keeps throwing pork in my yard! Chance must have heard something outside, so he started barking. When I let the dogs out to see what it was, his nose led him to the spot where the pork was thrown to. It was the exact same location where I found the first pork a few weeks ago.

Now, I'm even more concerned for my dogs' safety. Why are people doing this. I can't tell who is. I know for a fact that it wasn't the nice folks on my side. On the opposite side, there is no one that lives there. It has to be the house in front of me because that's the only logic place that could have thrown something perfectly into my yard and at the same location. However, I have no proof so I can't blame anyone yet. I wished I had a hidden camera so I could catch the perpetuator.

Good thing I took it away before he could gobble it up!

OH boy! What a day. Now we are ready to go to bed. I pray that this is the end of the trials with my dogs.

Stung by a bee!

2005-08-08T20:51:00.000-07:00

When is it going to stop? Seems like one thing after another. Sheli had to go to the emergency room this evening because the right side of her face (particularly upper lip) was so swollen. It actually blew up like a balloon and it was as hard as a rock! Her eye was a bit moist and puffy. I was out working in my garden when the two dogs were playing the "Sheli-chase-Chance" game, as usual. At one point, I noticed Sheli on her back on the grass as if she was scratching her back or you know how animals roll on their back if they found a dead bug. I thought that was what she was doing and just gave a sigh and went on with what I was doing. I was repotting some plants. Then Chance decided he had enough and went inside to rest and Sheli laid down besides me. It was only a few minutes when I noticed her getting up and I thought what restless dog she was and that was when I saw her lip really swollen. At first I thought she had something in her mouth, but when I touched it and realized she was actually blown up, I stopped what I was doing immediately and brought her inside so I could call the vet. I was concerned that she had eaten something poisonous or that she was bit by something.

The vet looked her over and suspected that she was bit by a bee as that is the common reaction of a bee sting. She was breathing fine and still had a great appetite, so she was ok and not in danger. They gave her shots of anti-allergy and found a mild ear infection. So, now she's on medication for that for the next 10 days. I felt so bad for her. It brought back memories of when Nicky was stung by a bumble bee in his ear and his ear had swelled up really big and he was in pain for the next couple days. Then Chance was stung by a wasp in his mouth and that almost killed him because his throat and tongue swelled up and he couldn't breathe. Now, Sheli's right side of face swelled up and I suspect she was in pain because she kept rubbing her face with her paw. What is it about Labradors and bees?? I guess they are highly allergic to bees!

Now, I am even more conscious about the bees that fly around the yards when I'm home. And I'm more worried if they have been stung while I was gone and I wasn't there in enough time to get them to the animal hospital. What a series of trials with my puppies!

Now she's sleeping.

I hear Chance barking in the other room, so I'm going to post this right now and see what out there that he's barking at.

Fun Day

2005-08-07T14:11:00.000-07:00

At the Labrador Retriever Club of Southern California's annual "Fun Day." It was held at the Featherly Park out in Anaheim Hills, just west of Riverside County. It was our first time there. There were so many Labradors there! There were programs such as conformation, field training, agility, rally obedience, games and prizes, and finally CGC (Canine Good Citizen) testing. It was for anyone with their Labs who were interested to join. They also had potluck and free hamburger, hotdogs, etc. A couple of booths to look at.

Chance, especially, was thrilled to be there. I think I may actually have a tear in my left shoulder because all he wanted to do was pull me all over the place. He wanted to greet other dogs. Sheli was excited too, but she was easier to handle being so much smaller and not as strong as Chance. She was more interested in the other puppies (same age). A couple people had to come and help with Chance. I was totally embarrassed because at those moments, I wished Nicky was there so I could have shown them what kind of owner I was with him. I was really good with Nicky and now I was afraid people would think I'm a lousy dog handler with Chance. I just wanted to run and hide into a hole. They have no idea whatsoever that Chance behaves perfectly at home. But anyway, after an hour there, he calmed down and was able to sit still and heed to my commands. Met some nice folks, but it was a bit weird because it was like everyone else knew each other and I was the "outsider." One woman just kept talking my head off. I told her many times that I was deaf and I had to read her lips (which was really hard because she didn't move her lips much anyway) and she kept turning her head all over as if I could hear her. I finally gave up and just ignored her until she finally walked away. I was glad we could go, but I don't think I'll go back. Lori, you didn't miss much, though, I think you'd have enjoyed seeing all the other adorable Labs of all ages and sizes!

Too bad no other doggies were in the foto as it was taken facing the opposite way.

YIKES!

2005-08-02T13:46:00.000-07:00

Poor dog! I can imagine Chance like that, for he is such a curious dog and will "get into trouble."

Looks like the dog had an extreme acupuncture treatment! Poor dog.

Thanks, Kris.

She's ok!

2005-07-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

The story of yesterday continues...

I woke her up, as usual, twice in the middle of the night to take her out potty. Looked at the towel (which was a off white colored one -- put that one there intentionally so I could see if she vomited or not -- and saw nothing there). I was relieved each time. Then this morning she was already sitting up waiting for me to wake up and open her crate. Let her out and she had her normal energy back. After playing with her for a bit, I fed her 1/4 cup of food instead of her usual 1 cup. She ate it with zest. Gave her a little bit of water. Then I had to observe her if she would vomit again (per the vet's instruction to bring her in immediately if she did). But, all day she's been fine. She didn't indicate any lethargic behavior or vomiteda ny more. But, the irony thing is Chance vomited twice. His was all bile and grass and he's done that before when he eats grass. His energy or appetite never changed. SO that was a good thing because I was starting to wonder if they've contraced a virus or something. But, no. Sheli must've eaten something in the garden that upset her stomach. You would think that's weird because I have attempted to dog-proof the whole house and yards. I've went to extreme measures to be sure that everything would be ok for dogs. Then she gets sick. The vet suspects she just picked up something that didn't "fit her stomach well." I thought it was her stool that she *ahem* ate made her sick, but I guess not because today she ate some again! You can bet a million of dollars that I did not just let that go lightly. I take this kind of behavior seriously and reprimand my dogs for doing so every time. Chance doesn't have that problem anymore, thankfully!!!!!! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Sheli will outgrow it. But, meanwhile I'm doing everything possible to prevent it such as give her pineapple & meat tenderizer. Both doesn't seem to work, so I'm going with those pills that you buy at the pet store. This evening was the first time I've given them to her, so I'm hoping it would work with her. Sigh.

Anyway, this is supposed to be a good news post. I'm relieved that both of my dogs seem to be fine. But, I wouldn't exactly say she's out of the woods yet until a full 24 hours pass. Tomorrow morning if she's fine still then I'll rest assured.

Whew. Oh, yeah and you can only guess I've spent a lot of money at the vet. Vets aren't cheap, but so what! I'm willing to spend hundreds of dollars on my puppies! They're like my kiddos.

Sheli's sick!

2005-07-29T22:14:00.000-07:00

Poor baby. Around 2:30pm, Sheli vomited a big one. But, before that and all day long, she's been fine and her appetite was healty. Played with Chance as usual. But as soon as her first vomit, she became lethargic. Then half an hour later, she threw up again. And again a half hour later. Then again once more before I finally called the vet. As I was talking to her using VRS (video relay service -- interpreting services online), Sheli threw up again, so Dr. Gilman told me to bring her in right away. The vomit consisted mostly of food, grass, leaves, liquid. I couldn't see what would have caused her to get sick.

Upon the arrival to the vet, Sheli seemed fine and energetic. Murphy's Law!!! But, the vet knew she wasn't fine, so she ordered xrays to see if there were any blockages in her digestive system, 2 kinds of shots to calm her vomiting, and the same kind of liquid you get for having an IV (for dehydration) only it wasn't done instravally. It was done by injecting a large quantity of that liquid in the extra skin on her neck, causing it to balloon up. She looked like Igor! The lump would dissolve into her body over a period of 12 hours. The xray results came back negative (thank You, God!). But she had a long stool that needed to come out.

We got home and she wasn't allowed to eat or drink until the following morning. That was around 5:00 when we arrived home and she was hungry. When it was time to feed Chance, I had to keep her in my office so he could eat alone and so she wouldn't attempt to steal some bits from him. My mom stopped by around 6ish to check up on us. She was in Manhattan Beach when I called and told her I was heading for the vet. She was in the middle of something in an office there. In my office, then minute I put her down, she laid down and went to sleep. She probably felt really weak. Then again at 7pm, she vomited but it was mostly blood AND traces of blood was found in there. I grew concerned and told myself if she vomits again and there's more blood, then I'm taking her in the animal ER. Nothing again until 10 pm just right before we went to bed. She vomited a silver dollar sized bile in her crate on the towel in there, so I just removed that towel and replaced it with a clean one. After soothing her for a while, she went right to sleep. I went to bed a bit concerned. I felt bad for Chance because all afternoon and evening, my focus was on the pup.

To be continued in the morning. Keep our fingers crossed

First visit to the Dog Park

2005-07-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

This time, it was Sheli's first visit. She had a ball! She loved interacting with other dogs. She was just in heaven. She panted as if she was smiling big. Of course, because she was just a pup, people there oooh-ahhed at her. Chance went on by himself to greet the other dogs while I stayed close to Sheli. I kept a close eye on Chance even from afar. People kept asking me if Chance was Sheli's father and I said, "No. He's her brother and he's only 14 months old." Responses such as, "No way! He's only one?" people would say. They looked so cute together, side by side. Sheli kept an eye on him at the park and would usually go where ever he was, but she also was very good with looking out for me. When it was time to go, I called them up and she came up to me right away while Chance was more like, "Already? I'm not finished in here. See you later" and just kept walking the opposite direction. I had to go to him and put on his leash and scold him for not obeying me. But, anyway Sheli got into my car and plopped down into an instant nap. She was beat. Hehe.

23 lbs!

2005-07-26T20:17:00.000-07:00

Already!? In just a couple of weeks, Sheli gains 9 pounds! She's growing rapidly. She went to the vet today to get her last of the 4 puppy shots and her 1st rabies shots. Now, she can play with other dogs.

She's such a cutie. Seems like every time I talk to both of them when they are both looking at me, Chance would "understand" what I'm saying to them, but Sheli would glance over to him then back at me every time. She has no clue what I'm saying. I think it's cute when she looks at her big brother for approval, affirmation, clarification, or just because she loves him.

Oh yeah, and she lost two teeth (one on the top and one on the bottom). She's getting a bit older. Right now, she's a few days shy of 16 weeks.

A swimmer!

2005-07-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

Sheli is deffy a swimmer! She loves jumping into the pool out in the back yard as soon as I pull its cover off. She just dives into it fearlessly. She would even put her head under water. I need to take some pictures of her swimming and post it in here, so come back and check for that shortly.

Chance likes the water too, but he's not craaazzzy about it. He is just satisfied by watching his little sister frolick about in the pool. He would much rather play/chase the water from the hose. He likes to get wet, oh believe me. He would get into the pool with Sheli, but he doesn't stay as long as she does. She likes staying in the pool (or jumping in and out over and over), but he would just take a dip and scrutinize the inside and drink some and then get out. I think that's because he was never really exposed to swimming his first year. When I first brought him home, I took him to my grandmother's pool and he loved it, but he was about 3 months old at that time (and the breeder had a pool and took all puppies into the pool often). Now, a year later, without any more exposure to pools, he is probably wary, but I'm hoping that in time he'll begin to really enjoy swimming with Sheli. I think he will because he always puts his head into the pool side, just enough where it touches his chin, and watch her play. Then he would look up at me as if he's saying, "Can I get in there? Should I? It looks tempting, but I'm not sure how to." He hears positive affirmations from me and receives it well, but he needs to trust himself first.

At least Sheli loves it and is exposed to it and hopefully Chance will follow her. I would like for all of my dogs to like swimming because hopefully one day when I finally buy a house, I'd like one with an in-ground pool so we all could jump in there together. How fun! Well, that's just the swimmer in me. That's one major reason I like Labs -- we both love water! The pool I have now outside is a nice and well-secured 4'x8'x18" portable one.

Nicky LOOOOOVVVVVVEED!!! the water as well. He'd grab every opportunity to get into any body of water whenever he saw it (of course, after checking in with me if it was permitted...what an obedient dog!)

I'll take some pictures soon.

2005-07-18T08:11:00.000-07:00

New chairs for the doggies! This is the dining room convert to doggie room. This room is adjacent to the kitchen. Since I lock the dogs in the kitchen/laundry room areas when I leave the house, I thought of when it began to get cooler and on rainy days, they'd want a warm and comfortable place to snuggle up. This room is the only room with carpet (not including the other side of the baby gate). They now have their own "couches" (it can be pulled out to become a bed) and a basket of toys on the other end of Sheli's chair. They have access to the back yard via the doggie door from the laundry room which is just right behind me (from taking this pose) and to your left. Aw, just so darling!