The Zoe-Chronicles: A Dog Blog

Chapter 13: Not MY Little Angel!

2010-05-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

Our last 'Chapter' posting was about Good Shepherd Dog Obedience School and how wonderful Linda and her dog Reina are at teaching dog obedience. Well, my hu-mom thought it would be a good idea to go back for a refresher course, so she completed the application and signed up -- we went and Linda asked my hu-mom about something she had written on the application. Specifically, her response to the question, "Does the dog present any special training challenges, i.e., aggressiveness, passiveness, fears, health issues, etc.?" -- to which my hu-mom replied, "Zoe sometimes gets a little aggressive during walks." She then explained that I had been attacked by another dog during a walk, and ever since then, I "sometimes" would growl and get aggressive.

As class began, only gentle-natured dogs were present, so Linda didnt think she would get the opportunity to see my response to an "aggressive" dog. Fortunately, two showed up and I stared at them and showed them who was the boss. Boy, was that the wrong thing to do! Linda pointed out to my hu-mom that I wasn't necessarily ALL sugar and spice and that I had actually invited the aggressiveness by staring.

I guess it was good that we went back for the refresher, because my hu-mom was able to see and identify that she needed to work so that I am not the aggressor. So how do you break that? Well, for the past several weeks we have been working on retraining and going over basic commands...and obedience! One of the "tools" that my hu-mom was reminded of was the "look" or "watch" command. For those of you unfamiliar with the "look/watch" command, it is introduced to your dog by letting the dog know that the human has a treat in ther hand -- the human then brings the treat to their forehead and says "watch" or "look" -- the dogs eyes follow the treat up and when the dog makes eye contact with the human, the human says, "Good dog" and gives the dog the treat. You keep working to get a "watch" command immediately, which in essence helps your little angel remain a little angel and not stare down other dogs when walking.

Now that we've worked on it for a few weeks, all my hu-mom has to say is, "Zoe, watch" and I stop what I'm doing, sit in front of her and gaze into her eyes. ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: Animal Abuse Awareness Month

2010-04-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

I know abuse happens, but because my hu-mans love me so much, I have difficulty comprehending how and why it exists.

My hu-man recently read an article in the newspaper about a young German shepherd that had been tied to a backyard tree and left him without food or water until he was so hungry that he ate dirt.

According to the Orange County Register,

German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County is offering a $1,000 reward for information about the owners of the dog they named "Courage."

Someone saw the emaciated animal and brought him to an emergency animal hospital last week in Garden Grove. Veterinarian Dr. Bill Grant says the 3-year-old dog weighed just 37 pounds - less than half his normal body weight. He now weighs 41 pounds.

Grant says Courage faces months of recovery, but is recovering well. More tests will determine if Courage's liver and kidneys will recover from the advanced malnutrition.

The good news is, a good samaritan's actions helped to save this dog's life.

The paper recently reported, that as of Monday, Courage weighed 46 pounds. In addition, there is a long list of people who are interested in giving Courage a home.

While the dog is doing better, it will be another couple of weeks before Grant can be certain his internal organs will recover and he will survive.

Courage still has a long road of recovery ahead of him, but thanks to people who care and his will to live, he is doing much better.

So what went wrong?

It is very difficult to know what went wrong. It turns out, Courage's owner Kimberly Nizato is a 26 year old veterinary technician in Irvine -- it is she who was arrested in this case of animal abuse. She was released on bail and in the meantime, is suspended from her job, with pay, because she has a child. I appreciate the compassion of her employer, to consider the welfare of Kimberly's child, but I hope and pray that Kimberly would share the same compassion with animals and individuals in her life.

This was a difficult story to share, but in light of Animal Abuse Awareness Month I thought it was important to share...
Please do what you can to help stop animal abuse. ~Zoe

Read more: http://www.sanluisobispo.com/2010/04/19/1109416/vet-says-dog-has-gained-about.html#ixzz0leZvtm78

Friday's Favorite Foto

2010-04-16T06:30:00.000-07:00

Today's favorite photo was submitted by Judy. The image is of "Mouse", a cat that allows herself to be cared for by Judy's son Niels and his partner Susie.

Thank you for your submission Judy! ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: Are you heart aware?

2010-04-13T06:30:00.000-07:00

My hu-mom just signed us up to walk in the Heart Association's Heart Walk. She and my hu-man have had several friends lately who have been diagnosed with heart disease -- unfortunately in some cases, the diagnosis came too late. As a result, she and my hu-man have both gone in and had their hearts (and health) checked at French Hospital, through their FREE "Heart Aware" program. The program begins with an on-line questionnaire. Once you have completed the questionnaire, you can immediately print out an assessment with suggestions for improving your heart health. In addition, you have the option of signing up for a FREE 1/2-hour appointment with the nurse who coordinates the program. She will give you a fasting cholesterol test, review your results, and discuss lifestyle changes/adjustments for improving/maintaining a healthy heart. At the end of the evaluation, you have the option of taking a calcium CT scan (cost was $99), to determine if there are any blockages or build up found in your arteries.

Well, this is a "dog" blog, so I'm going to get to talking about dogs. Did you know that dogs get heart disease too? Yes, we have first hand experience with that one in our home. Kip has heart disease. We learned about it a couple of years ago -- about the same time he had a 10 lb. splenic tumor removed. Kip used to walk 2-3 miles a day -- now he walks to the end of the block and back. Sometimes that is even too much for him. He takes multiple medications daily, which help keep his heart beating fairly strong and regular and reduce the fluid in his lungs and body. We love Kip and are thankful for each and every day we have with him.

So, how do you know if your dog has heart disease? DogTime posted an excellent article on heart disease in dogs. To read it, click here.

There is much we can do to combat heart disease -- I know I and my hu-mom will be walking to support the cause. If you would like to walk with us...or donate to the cause, please sign up on our Heart Walk Web Page -- As a thank you for your support, we will send you a FREE PawPrintArt card made with my paw print and my hu-mom's imagination (see above).

Until next time, do all that you can to live HEART HEALTHY! ~Zoe

Friday's Favorite Foto

2010-04-09T06:30:00.000-07:00

Stephanie submitted the following photo, used to announce Purina's "Bark in the Park" in Australia. The photo's title..."Half Time at the Dog Park"

Thank you, Stephanie, and Happy Friday to all! ~Zoe

Thursday's Tip: Tackling Leash Aggression

2010-04-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

Today's tip comes straight from Dogtime.com and deals with leash aggression...

Leash aggression is an extremely common behavior issue faced by many dog-loving owners.

You start on the blissful journey of puppy parenthood, envisioning a future of leisurely strolling with your dog: cup of coffee and newspaper in hand, ready to settle in on a park bench, street café, or just around the neighborhood. Then reality sets in. Lovable Fido often resembles Cujo while on leash.

I feel for owners battling leash aggression. I know they scratch their heads in bewilderment, sometimes even resorting to defending sweet Fido by blurting aloud to passersby, "Really, he's very sweet. He only does this on leash!"

Here's what is going on. Your dog is probably frustrated and anxious. Very likely, he wanted to run after or gain access to whatever he saw while on the street; it could've been a squirrel, other dogs, skateboards etc.

That pesky prohibitive collar and leash however prevented your dog from gaining access to these things and over time, exuberant curiosity was replaced with frustration. Your dog needs to release that frustration and voila, the barking and lunging begins.

"I WANT IT! I NEED TO GO INVESTIGATE! I JUST NEED TO SAY HELLO! WHY CAN'T I HAVE IT?"

It is very likely that your dog's initial outbursts were met with some form of disapproval from you.

"FIDO, NO! HEY! STOP IT!"

The cycle then begins and now Fido begins to also feel anxious. He begins to think that not only do these things frustrate him, but they make Mom and Dad angry!

"HEY DOG! GET AWAY! MY DAD GETS MAD WHEN YOU ARE NEAR! GO AWAY!"

Now that we likely know the why, let's focus on how to manage the behavior.

In any case of aggression, I strongly advise working with a gentle and humane professional to guide you through this process and teach you about the importance of your timing and consistency. Seek a trainer whose methods are firming planted in reward-based training.

You need to develop a more refined replacement behavior for the lunging and barking. A dog that is quietly trotting along your side, staring into your sparkling eyes is ideal. In order to get this going, you need to be a vigilant owner. It is now your job to scout out other dogs before your dog has the opportunity.

You must also be a well prepared owner. You must always be stocked with tasty treats or your dog's favorite tug style toy.

Game plan

The very second you see a dog (before your dog has the chance to react) you quickly get Fido's attention with a happy voiced, "Fido!" Give him treats or access to his toy as you get close to and continue to pass the other dog. During this time, it's important that you remain calm, happy and refrain from tightening up on the leash. We are teaching Fido that both you and he need to relax in presence of other furry friends. Once the other dog has passed and is at a distance, the treating stops or the toy is put away.

Learning that you are the giver of all good things, your dog will become conditioned to look at you automatically when spotting another dog. This conditioning will also help improve Fido's association with other dogs.

It is very important, in kicking off this project, to be lavish in your reward giving, distributing treats every second while in sight of another dog. People often immediately retort, "My dog is going to get fat!" Not if you are a good owner and recognize that treats are incorporated into your dog's daily ration of food. Cut back on what is going into the bowl, knowing that tackling this behavior hurdle is top priority for the health and happiness of both you and your dog. It might take a bit of retraining yourself!

Over time, as your dog becomes increasingly comfortable looking at you, while ignoring other dogs, you will slowly decrease the number of treats given. If you are a good consistent trainer, by the end of this process you will be flipping one treat to your dog after you've passed the other dog and even sometimes simply offering a "good boy!"

Setting yourself up for success

When you are feeling lazy, avoid routes with dogs! If you aren't going to be a good trainer, don't allow your dog to react--and thus unravel all the work you are doing. (It's like a smoker who picks up a cigarette again!)
Practice "Fido, look!" every chance you get, NOT just when faced with other dogs. Your dog must make eye contact with you for everything he wants in life: before you put his food dish on the floor, snap on his leash, open the door for him to go outdoors, between each toss during a game of fetch. This is your batting practice. The more you and your dog get in the batting cage, the more successful you'll be at the big game!
Exercise your dog. If you have a backyard, play fetch for fifteen minutes before going on a walk. Your dog will be a bit more tired, a bit more convinced that you are cool (after tossing the ball to him), and likely to be less anxious about those other dogs.

Work hard and your training will pay off. Sitting at at outdoor café without worry that your table flies out from under your plate as Fido lunges for another dog IS possible.

[NOTE: If your dog is unable to pass another dog--while being treated and without reacting--you will need to consider proximity. Establish a comfort/space threshold: approaching other dogs only to the point where your dog is comfortable, and then crossing the street or creating a visual block as you get by. Over time, you'll increase proximity. This will definitely require working with a professional.]

Written by Colleen Safford, of New York Walk & Train and Far Fetched Acres, one of NYC's most recognized dog trainers.

Can't we all just get along? ~Zoe

Tuesday's Tellings: Tails of Woods

2010-04-06T06:30:00.000-07:00

As you know, this month we are featuring Woods Humane Society. Well, you'll be pleased to know that Woods provides a multitude of ways to get involved. We've already shared about pet adoptions, training, etc., well, here is just one more way you can support Woods!

Woods Humane Society is proud to announce the return of our annual dinner/gala fundraiser TAILS on Saturday, May 8 2010 at the Embassy Suites in San Luis Obispo. This year’s Tails of Woods promises a night of elegance, friendship, and fun. Join us for exclusive wine and beer tasting, a full course dinner, dessert, and both live and silent auctions.

Woods has been an important part of the Central Coast since 1955, sheltering and finding homes for those cats and dogs that find themselves in need. We are proud to have placed close to 40,000 dogs and cats into caring homes over the last 55 years. Our state of the art facility has allowed us to do so much more, but it takes events such as Tails of Woods to keep the facility running and continuing to realize its full potential. Fundraising represents 70% of our operating budget and the primary purpose of our event is to raise enough revenue to offset one full month of operational expenses.

Will you put a wag in our Tails?

Please contact the shelter directly at 805-543-9316 x19 for tickets, event information, or to join us as a business sponsor. Moreover, check back soon for a listing of this year’s wonderful Live Auction Items and participating wineries.

I don't think I'm invited to such an event, but if you are human and will be in the area in May, I encourage you to check it out! ~Zoe

Chapter 12: Good Shepherd Dog Obedience School

2010-04-05T06:30:00.000-07:00

Of all of the training I have received, I have enjoyed the Good Shepherd Dog Obedience School the best! Linda is the proprieter, and she, along with her german shepherd, Reina, has a wonderful way with dogs and humans.

My hu-mom had heard about Linda's Good Shepherd Dog Obedience school from several friends -- it seemed EVERYONE with a happy, well-balanced, well-behaved pet had been to the Good Shepherd Dog Obedience School. My hu-mom was convinced that we HAD to go to "that" school!

Well we signed up, and Linda did not disappoint! She really knows her stuff and shares information in such a gentle, but firm manner. Not only did we learn the basics, sit, down, stay, heel, halt, etc., but she made sure there was a lot of interaction with other dogs and humans, and she also shared a lot about hygiene. She showed our humans how to brush our teeth, clip our nails, clean our ears, check for and remove ticks, and bathe us.

There was a lot of postitive reinforcement in Linda's training, and she even prepared us to put on a "show" for some local residents. You see, Linda was involved in taking animals into schools and nursing homes, to share the love of pets, and proper pet care, with those in attendance.

Linda encouraged lots and lots of fun activities with our humans, and helped our humans teach us tricks that we could perform in the show. My hu-mom worked with me to teach me how to shake hands, give a high-five, spin (to the left) and twirl (to the right), do puppy push-ups (sit, down, sit, down, etc), lay flat (play dead, although she didn't like that term so she uses a hand motion to encourage me to lay flat), leave it (with a piece of food), take it (same piece of food), catch (a ball, frisbee, etc), find it (she will hide a toy or food and it's my job to find it), flip a dog bone off of my nose and into my mouth, and curtsey.

Sadly, something happened (I don't remember exactly what), but our performance was cancelled. So although we didn't get to share our tricks with the public, we had a lot of one-on-one time with our owners and learned lots of tricks!

In addition to the training, the hygiene, and the tricks, Linda also introduced us to dog agility. Dog agility is F-U-N! I'm pretty energetic, and had a blast jumping, climbing, running, etc. My hu-mom and I haven't explored this any further, but I have a feeling this is next on my hu-man's list!

Linda now offers dog obedience, nose work (tracking a scent), and dog agility. I and my hu-mom HIGHLY recommend Linda and her school to anyone wanting to strenghen your dog-human bond and learn obedience from a pro. To find out more about the Good Shepherd Dog Obedience School, go to: http://www.appliedvb.com/goodshepslo/

~Zoe

Happy Easter!

2010-04-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

Just a short note to wish you a very Happy Easter! ~Zoe
(click here)

Thursday's Tip: Dear Labby -- Petiquette Expert

2010-04-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

Have you ever run across something clever and thought, "Boy I sure wish I would have come up with that idea!" Well today's post is about a very clever pet tip site on pet ettiquette -- or "petiquette".

Similar to Dear Abby or Ann Landers, this site allows you to ask a question and receive an answer -- only this site is for dogs and your questions are answered by...

This clever site is run by Dog Time, and as I said before, Labby will answer your dog related questions. For example, here is a question submitted about whether it is okay or not to correct someone elses dog...

Dear Labby, My mother-in-law's Golden Retriever is a jumper. She's a friendly dog, and I like her, but she's pretty big and I don't care for the constant, attention-seeking jumping. My mother-in-law and I have not always been on great terms so I don't want to rock the boat by chastising her precious pet. On the other hand, I'd like them both to get the message that this behavior is not appreciated. What's the proper etiquette for correcting someone else's dog?

Signed: Put Off by Undisciplined, Needy Canine Energy

Dear Put Off, Who doesn't fancy himself a dog expert, P.O.U.N.C.E., and relish the chance to drop pearly liver bits of wisdom on naïfs such as ourselves? So bank some points with your mother-in-law by asking her advice. Something along the lines of: "I'm sure you're teaching Cricket not to jump - how can I help reinforce proper behavior?"

It's not unlikely your mother-in-law will respond with, "Oh I don't mind if she jumps!" In that case, it's up to you to set boundaries. Turn away from the dog as soon as you notice her front paws come off the ground; she's looking for face-to-face contact, but if you quickly turn away from her, she'll eventually learn that jumping does not get her what she wants. At least not with you.

In general, the rule is to leave the correcting to the owner. The exceptions are when safety's at stake. Or when you've got a lemon meringue pie in your hands and the Retriever hasn't eaten since morning.

And so, I encourage you to send Labby your questions. You can reach her at dearlabby@dogtime.com

Today's parting quote: "Knowledge is realizing that the street is one-way, wisdom is looking both directions anyway" ~Unknown

Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: Woods Humane Society

2010-03-30T06:30:00.000-07:00

Since we are focusing on Woods Humane Society for the month of April, I thought you might like to know about a couple of upcoming "events" --

April 10-11 - 2nd Annual Wine 4 Paws Fundraiser

April 10th-11th is the 2nd Annual Wine for Paws Fundraiser. Last year’s event featured over 30 local wineries and the shelter receives a portion or percent of the entire day’s tasting room sales. Visit http://www.wine4paws.com/ or email info@wine4paws.com for more details. In addition, do not forget that a great way to support the animals of Woods is to support the wineries that go out of their way to support Woods.

April 15th - Critter Camp Registration Opens

Woods Humane Society offers a summer “Critter Camp” for children between the ages of 8-11 years and is a week long day camp specifically focused on teaching humane education.

Today's adoptable pet feature...

Meet Sammy! Sammy is an Australian Shepherd/Collie mix. He is black and tan, weighs 37 pounds, is 1 year and 1 week old, has been neutered, and is up to date with routine shots. (Pet ID 9066). For more information about Sammy or other dogs/cats available for adoption please contact Woods Humane Society.

Thursday's Tip: Beaching It

2010-03-25T06:30:00.000-07:00

Ahh, it's spring and the weather on the Central Coast of California is B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L! With such nice weather, it is just a matter of time before my hu-mans take me to the beach. I love, love, love to run on the sand, play in the water and chase the birds (don't worry, I've never caught one!).

If you are preparing to take your loving sidekick to the beach, Cesar Milan (The Dog Whisperer) offers these tips for beaching it:

•Know the local laws. Some beaches do not accept dogs. Others require that they be on-leash at all times. Find out before you head out.

•Prepare. You may not be aware that, like humans, dogs need protection from the sun. Talk to your veterinarian about protective goggles and canine sunblock.

•Be confident in your pack leadership. For a dog to get the full benefit of a beach visit, off-leash (where permitted) is ideal. But remember, the beach is full of interesting scents of the sea life there. This can send your dog into a very primal state. If you don't have your leadership skills down pat, you could lose your dog.

•Protect your dog from fleas. This is not an issue most people associate with the beach, but sand fleas are prevalent in some areas. Be aware that a wet flea collar is ineffective and can also irritate your dog's skin. Consult your veterinarian to find the best solution.

•Let your dog dig! This is the perfect spot to let your dog try to make that tunnel to China he's been dreaming of.

•Check conditions. Sea lice, jellyfish, undercurrents, and rip tides all pose just as much of a threat to dogs as they do to humans. Before you let your dog roam, verify with a lifeguard that the environment is safe.

•Keep your dog hydrated. Make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water—and never let your dog drink salt water. It can make him sick.

•Be aware of your dog's physical and emotional state. A trip to the beach isn't the time to punch out. Your dog may be having so much fun that he looses track of how tired, hot, or thirsty he is. It is up to you to watch for signs of dehydration or over-exhaustion. Sand and heat can make a normal exercise routine more strenuous. Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, call your dog back to rest in a shady spot.

•Be respectful of other visitors. Whether canine or human, other visitors to the beach may not appreciate your dog's company. Make sure to keep your dog in check.

•Be vigilant. Remember that many items washed ashore, like fishing lines, litter, plant-life, and dead fish, may not be safe for your dog. When he goes exploring, keep a close eye on the objects he finds.

•Pick up after your dog! Help keep the water clean and the beach pleasant for other visitors.

•Give your dog a bath. If possible, give him a good rinse with fresh water before leaving the beach. When you get home, make sure to wash your dog immediately! Chemicals from sea water can be harmful to your dog's coat and health.

Until next time, enjoy the beauty of today! ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: Woods Humane Society

2010-03-23T06:30:00.000-07:00

Today we are going local, with Woods Humane Society. My first encounter with Woods was for training -- after the Morro Bay experience. I was very impressed with the staff, who works very hard to inform and instruct the public on how to be a responsible pet owner, and to ensure that animals taken into the shelter are placed in good homes. According to their website,

Woods Human Society Is a nonprofit, privately funded organization dedicated to the humane care of unwanted animals in San Luis Obispo County. Our Staff, volunteers, and board of directors are dedicated to upholding our Mission and preserving the welfare of our present and future animals.

While we cooperate with the State Humane Association of California, the American Humane Association, and The Humane Society of the United States, Woods does not receive financial support from them. Only 20% of our revenues to care for the animals are generated by service fees, the other 80% is generated from fund-raising events, grants, wills, and mainly community donations.

Woods Humane Society is proud to be a leader among the nation’s humane organizations. Thanks to loyal and broad-based community support, and the diligent efforts of our dedicated staff and volunteers, Woods placement rate in fiscal 07/08 was 94%, an outstanding achievement.

None of this work could be completed without the incredible support of our community and our wonderful volunteers.

Woods currently has a number of dogs and cats available for adoption, and those featured on last week's KSTT radio's Furry Friend Friday are:

Diesel, a 3-year-old Shepherd Mix who has called Woods Humane Society his home since December. Diesel wears a beautiful brindled coat, is neutered, vaccinated, micro chipped, and leash trained. A high-energy dog—Diesel is looking for an active family. He will make a great jogging partner. Diesel participates in the shelter’s offsite program and gets to leave with our volunteers for hikes up Bishop’s Peak and trips to the beach. Originating as a transfer from the county Animal Services Division, Diesel has advanced quickly through his obedience work and training. He absolutely loves human attention and actively seeks out love. Diesel is a great dog that is being overlooked out here at the shelter. If you are an active person looking for an active K9 companion, please stop by Woods Humane Society and spend some time getting to know Diesel.

Mr Green, a 1-year-old flat-coated retriever who transferred in to our adoption program in January. Mr. Green is neutered, current on vaccinations, and micro chipped. Most likely house broken, he is good on a leash and great with kids. Characteristic of his breed—Mr. Green has a high level of energy and is looking for an active home with room to run. He will make an amazing jogging or hiking partner. Mr. Green is not dealing with the inherent stress of kennel life very well and is desperately seeking a new and loving home to call his own. If you are an active person looking for a dog that can keep up with you, please consider stopping by Woods Humane Society and spend some time getting to know Mr. Green. Oh and he said that it is perfectly ok to change his name.

and Trooper, a 5-year-old tan and white Corgi-Basset Hound Mix (Corset) who is a guest of Woods since December. Trooper is a sweet dog that is neutered, vaccinated, micro chipped, and leash trained. He is a little shy, but quickly warms up to anyone willing to give him a pat on the head. He rides very well in the car, gets along great with other dogs, and is perfect for someone looking for a quite, mellow dog that is easy to manage. Very responsive to treats and affection, Trooper would be great for a smaller home with older/considerate children. Recently, Trooper accompanied a pack of dogs and Woods Volunteers out for a night with the Central Coast Roller Derby Girls. He performed wonderfully at the event and has since become one of the shelter’s handpicked Pet Visitation K9 Ambassadors. A bit of a conversation starter, at first glance most people think that Trooper is cross-eyed. In reality, he just has a unique coloring to his eyes. Trooper wants nothing more than to find a sweetheart this Valentine’s Day so if you are looking for a companion that enjoys long walks on the beach, watching the sunset, and curling up to snuggle and watch a movie, consider stopping by Woods Humane Society and spend some time getting to know this great little dog.

I recognize that adoption is a big step, but if you are looking to add a dog or cat to your family, please consider a pet from Woods. If you can't adopt, there are several ways you can still support their cause: 1) you can volunteer, 2) you can donate directly to Woods, 3) you can drop off dog treats or hard chew toys, and 4) you can purchase PawPrintArt cards & prints and 30% of the profits from March/April sales will be donated to Woods Humane Society.

And now, speaking of PawPrintArt, I am introducing a new form of PawPrintArt. I mentioned it briefly in another posting, it is painted entirely from a digital PawPrint brush that my hu-mom created from my paw print. Here is our first portrait...

-- it is of my Dad, Ruckus, when he was just a pup. He is a purebred Golden Retriever and quite dashing, if I do say so myself.

Well, thanks for letting me share about Woods, and remember, "An animals eyes have the power to speak a great language." ~Martin Buber

~Zoe

Chapter 11: The Training Continues

2010-03-22T06:30:00.000-07:00

With Puppy Kindergarten behind me it is now time to to go train with the Big Dogs. My hu-mom signed us up for Dog training through the Morro Bay Community Center. I got a little used to being the big dog on campus, (remember, I trained with a bunch of chihuahuas), so walking into the Big Dog class was a little intimidating. I spent a lot of time on my back (being submissive), but eventually got to feeling comfortable around all of the dogs and started walking with a bit more confidence.

The class focused on much of the same things we learned in Puppy Kindergarten, only this class was offered to "older" dogs and their humans. In this class the instructor was a no-nonsense kind of a lady, and was much more expectant. When she said we were going to practic walking, I walked, and when she said we were going to practice turning, I turned. She spoke with such command that I think all of us dogs did exactly what we were supposed to do!

The class lasted for several weeks and reinforced my training. It was a great bonding time for me and my hu-mom. ~Zoe

Thursday's Tip: How To Hire A Dog Walker

2010-03-18T06:30:00.000-07:00

About.com offers 6 steps for hiring a dog walker:

Determine how often you can and cannot walk your dog. Once you know how often you'll need extra help you'll be able to find a dog walker available to fill in whenever you won't be around.
Get recommendations from other dog owners. Ask at your local dog park or speak to all your friends and family about dog walkers they've used in the area.
Use an online resource such as Craigslist.org to find dog walker classifieds (see Resources below). You can usually find a number of dog walker advertisements as well as contact information.
Call dog walkers in your area and arrange to have meetings with those you are interested in hiring. Be sure to give yourself at least three options in case you have reservations about some that you've spoken with.
Ask a lot of questions of the dog walkers you call. For instance, you'll want to ask how much experience they have, what qualifications they have and how they handle disciplining the dogs. Also, you'll want to know how many dogs they walk at once.
Introduce your dog to the dog walkers. This gives you a chance to see your dog's temperament around the dog walkers and allows the dog walkers a chance to determine whether or not they would feel comfortable with your dog.

Okay, this is how it SHOULD be done, now let me tell you how it is being done in our house...

A little neighbor girl creates a flyer saying she is a "dog walker" -- my hu-mans ignore the flyer.
The little girl shows up at our door with another flyer and my hu-man says, "hmmm, let me talk it over with my wife."
The little girl shows up at our door with a new flyer, indicating that no one has taken her up on her dog-walking offer, so she is lowering her rates.
My hu-mans talk and think this little girl has an entrepreneural spirit and needs to be given a chance, so my hu-mom "interviews" the little girl to find out more about her "experience"...

My hu-mom, "Do you have a dog?"
Little girl, "No."
My hu-mom, "Have you taken dog training classes?"
Little girl, "No."
My hu-mom, "Have you walked dogs before?
Little girl, "No."
My hu-mom, "So, what qualifies you as a dog walker?"
Little girl, "I watch Victoria on TV, you know, 'It's Me or the Dog."

With no experience, my hu-mom was still impressed with this little girl's attitude, so she set up a time to have us all "get acquainted." The little girl showed up at our door yesterday afternoon and my hu-mom and I went out to meet her. My hu-mom brought treats and we spent most of the time on the front lawn. My mom explained about speaking with authority, the importance of letting me know that I was "the dog" and the little girl was "the dog walker". We reviewed some basic commands, (just so the "dog walker" could get used to me and me to her, then when my hu-mom felt comfortable, we started walking. My hu-mom held the leash and showed the "dog walker" how to correct me if I started to pull, and how to walk in a straight line, turn me around, etc. Towards the end of the session, my hu-mom passed the leash to the "dog walker" and walked along side of us, then she eventually dropped back a bit, then stopped altogether. The "dog walker" shows promise, and my hu-mom and I will continue with training, before my hu-mom relinquishes the leash to her entirely.

So, our methods are not entirely optimal, but we are making a new friend and helping to fulfill the dreams of a little girl...to be a dog walker. ~Zoe

The Luck of the Irish to You...

2010-03-17T06:30:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day! Today, I celebrate the luck o' the Irish, by introducing an expansion to my PawPrintArt. My hu-mom has made a digital paintbrush out of my paw print, and will be painting entire paintings using my PawPrint.

In honor of St. Paddy's Day, we created a Celtic Knot -- just to give you a quick demonstration of what we are talking about.

This is what the brush looks like...

and when color, size and pressure variation are added, you get...

If you look very closely you can see the paw prints. As soon as we have a painting or two under our belts, we will add them to my PawPrintArt shop on Etsy and they will be available for sale (with 30% of sales profits going towards animal (& human) rescue). Also, if you are interested in commissioning a painting, we will accept commissions also.

So what do you think of this new art form? We'd love to hear your thoughts!

Happy St. Paddy's Day! ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: Cooper's Dog

2010-03-16T06:30:00.000-07:00

So many of you were pulling for little Cooper -- the four year old, highly allergic and asthmatic little boy, who needed an allergen alert dog. Well I am happy to report that Cooper's family has raised all of the money needed to buy the dog, AND get the training.

And so, without further adieu, please let me introduce Kona.

Yes, in just 5 months, you with your support of prayers and support, have contributed to Little Cooper living a safer life, with more freedom. Cooper will now have the opportunity to go to school, and as his parents say, "have a guardian angel by his side."

His mom shares, "As his mother I can not tell you how over joyed and overwhelmed my heart is. I am still in disbelief. I am so incredibly thankful. During this journey, I learned a very important thing..To always, always, always help those in need no matter how big or small. From the bottom of our hearts THANK YOU for your help, love, support and advice!! We will be traveling to Colorado in June or July for a mandatory two week training session with Kona (the dog) and the trainers. Please continue to visit our blog so we can share this event with you!"

So, to all of those who read my blog, thank you for caring...thank you for sharing. I must say, our lives are much richer because of you! ~Zoe

I'm back!

2010-03-15T06:30:00.000-07:00

It has been quite some time since my last post. I do apologize for that and will get back on track for regular postings.

You'll be happy to know that I have recovered from my intestinal illness. My vet still doesn't know what caused it, but there was some discussion about my eating too fast that sent my hu-mom into action. As regular food was reintroduced, my hu-mom would hold my bowl while I ate, then pull it away after a few seconds. As she pulled it away, she would say, "Zoe, break." If I tried to go after the food, she would give me the ever-so-popular "ah!" sound, which let me know I had better keep my distance. After about 10 seconds, she would put the bowl in front of me again and say, "Take it." I would eat for about 5 seconds and the whole series started again.

Now, she doesn't have to hold the bowl, she just sets it on the floor and I dive in as usual, then after about 5 seconds she says, "Zoe, break". That is my cue to STEP AWAY FROM THE BOWL! I take a step back and wait for the "take it" command. We repeat this dance until my food is devoured. This new way of eating sure does cramp my style, but not my stomach!

Have a great day! ~Zoe

"Every dog must have his day." ~ Jonathan Swift

Friday's Favorite Foto: Kip

2010-01-29T06:30:00.000-08:00

Kip's motto: "Always be prepared".

Have bowl will travel...

Thursday's Tip: Surviving the Winter Months

2010-01-28T06:30:00.000-08:00

Living in sunny (hah!) California, I am used to getting out and getting exercise. But it has been raining (a lot) lately, and my humans have been challenged about making sure I don't become a couch potato.

Cesar Milan recently posted an article on how to survive the winter months in certain parts of the country, and gave some excellent advice on "Indoor Exercise". Essentially he challenges humans to get creative and find ways to keep your canines moving.

Our house has a fairly open format, so my hu-mom and hu-man will play indoor fetch with me. They will throw the ball from one room to another and I'll run and "get it", then bring it back for them to do it again. My hu-mom will also take me in one room of the house, ask me to "sit" and "stay", then she will go into another part of the house and yell, "come!" I always take off on a dead run to find her and as soon as I do, she gives me a big scratch behind my ear, tells me I'm a good girl, and we do it all over again...and again...

We also play tug (my favorite!) or I'll be asked to perform all of the tricks I have learned.

So, as you can see, snow and rain don't relegate you to the couch -- there is great fun and exercise to be had indoors too!

How do you keep fit during the winter? I would love to hear about it. ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling:

2010-01-26T06:30:00.000-08:00

Today I'd like to remind you of two things...
First, there is a benefit BBQ for Cooper Giron this Saturday. The family is hoping to raise the last of the funds needed to get Cooper's service dog AND training.

The BBQ is...

Date: Saturday, January 30

Time: 11AM to 3PM

Place: Luthern Church of Our Savior, 4725 South Bradley, Orcutt, CA 93455

Menu: Tri-Tip Sandwich, Chips & Soda

Donation: $7.00

And don't forget, there will be snow for the children to play in!

Second, I shared a bit about Whar-Wolf rescue. This really is a very worthy organization and if you would like to know more...or donate to the cause, please visit the Whar-Wolf website at http://www.whar.org/. In the meantime, here are some fun and interesting facts about Wolves and Hybrid Wolves (from the Whar-Wolf website):

Most wolf and wolf mixes can assess humans by their body language and scent. Eye contact is also important when trying to communicate with these animals. Too much can create tension and not enough shows weakness.
Captive born female Wolves and Hybrid Wolves will dig a den in captivity with any and all offspring helping regardless of the female being pregnant or sterilized.
Most Wolves and Hybrid Wolves can sense sickness and disease in humans. Everything from the common cold to major diseases.
Most Wolves and Hybrid Wolves howl frequently. The reason for this has never been completely figured out. Some say it's a release of energy, others an emotional expression, and others a communication method. Regardless of the true reason, there is nothing like being surrounded by a chorus of howling animals.
Wolves and Hybrid Wolves are very territorial. Any property within their sight range, is thought to be their own. Scent marking happens automatically both from males and females. Most animals try to mark the property every few feet and frequently each week. Most males will automatically mark after their females.
In a wild wolf pack, an omega has the important role of ensighting play and diffusing tension. The middle of beta role is that of the scout and second in command. While the Alpha male and female are in charge of initiating the hunts and reproduction of pups.
Most Wolf pups are born with blue/gray eyes that later turn yellow, amber, yellow-green, yellow-brown, or even brown, but never black.

As always, thank you for your care and concern of my fellow canines! ~Zoe

Thursday's Tip: Dental Hygiene for Dogs

2010-01-21T06:30:00.000-08:00

I am often complimented on my "pretty" teeth. I have to confess, I have little to do with it, for the real responsibility lies with my hu-mom.

Thankfully she learned early about the importance of my "dental hygiene" and she brushes my teeth. True confessions time...she doesn't brush them EVERY day, but that is something she said she needs to get better about, so I have a feeling I'm in for having her hands in my mouth much more often!

So how do you brush a dog's teeth?

*image courtesy of the www. (sorry no credits were found, so copyright info is unknown)

Click here to watch a video that walks you through the process.

So, does your human brush your teeth? I'd love to hear your story! ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: Benefit BBQ for Cooper

2010-01-19T06:30:00.000-08:00

We've followed Cooper and his need for an allergen alert dog and you have all been amazing!

The family is just $3,255.00 away from reaching their goal of getting Cooper's allergen alert dog and training. So, how can you help? Well if you will be on California's Central Coast on Saturday, January 30th, you can attend a Benefit BBQ to help the cause.

Date

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Time

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Place

Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 4725 South Bradley, Orcutt, CA 93455

Menu

Tri-Tip Sandwich, Chips & Soda

Donation

$7.00

There will also be FREE snow for the children to play in!

Hope to see you there! ~Zoe

Friday's Favorite Foto

2010-01-15T06:30:00.000-08:00

One Mississippi...Two Mississippi...

Thursdays Tip: New Furniture protection

2010-01-14T06:30:00.000-08:00

Disclaimer: Not the actual chair = )

My humans got a new chaise lounge for Christmas. I've seen them reclining on that thing looking EXTREMELY comfortable and thought, "hey, what about me!" So I tried it... Needless to say, when I was discovered on the rather comfortable new piece of furniture, I was immediately told, "OFF". I immediately gave up my place on the comfy new chaise and moved over the sofa (also comfortable AND a piece of furniture that I am allowed on.)

So, how do you allow your pet on some pieces of furniture and not others? Training of course. To keep me off of the chaise (when they are not in the room), my humans will put tin foil on the chair. As soon as my paws hit the foil, it makes a rather obnoxious noise and I turn tail and move to the acceptable sofa. Of course when my humans are in the room the chaise will be foil free and if I go near the chaise, they will give me an "ah!" if I even think about getting on that thing.

Oh well, although there is a new temptation in the house, I will continue to enjoy my vantage spot from my ever so comfy sofa. ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: WharWolves...

2010-01-12T06:30:00.000-08:00

A couple of years ago my humans had the opportunity to "Walk with Wolves" -- a program offered through a local wolf rescue agency that allows you to go on an educational hike to learn about wolves, and actually walk with them. They said it was a little unnerving, but a truly unforgettable experience. The walk was organized through WHAR Wolf Rescue in Paso Robles, CA. The organization was established to provide education and be a rescue and resource facility for captive born part and full blood wolves, and has grown to service not just our local area, but the seven western states.

The WHAR Wolf Rescue describes their mission as...

offering "animals for adoption both to sponsor or to take home, WHAR Wolf Rescue lends guidance in all things concerning captive wolf type animals. All animals are placed into screened homes using a full adoption contract. Full blood wolves are never released to the public as pets nor will a hybrid wolf be had if the recipient fails the screening process. Various local and distant facilities and animal regulators have come to rely on the expertise that is provided from WHAR Wolf Rescue in identifying potential hybrid wolves found without proper documentation. All the while continuing to serve as a means of factual practical education regarding a variety of subject matter such as, proper containment, quality diets, humane treatment, discouragement of breeding practices, proper exercise, body language communication (wolf speak), U.S. wild wolf reintroduction programs, no wolves as pets philosophy, general animal education on captive wolves and hybrids, ownership realities for current or potential owners or adopters-to-be, spay and neuter information, legal ownership guide for your local municipality, veterinarian selection guidance, and what to do if your animal kills something. Currently run as a grass roots movement, WHAR Wolf Rescue is comprised of a seven person board of directors who are unpaid for their services rendered. A variety of well trained volunteers staff the facility although there are always more openings then volunteers. All helpers are fully trained and orientated for safety, security, and care. As we have found out in building our mission, we are only as good as our plan. Therefore we have created a basic plan of care, concern, education, and a heartfelt devotion and then never wavered from that mission. We are always so delighted to welcome visitors and new training volunteers who share our enormous passion for all things."

Image from WHARF Wolf Rescue Website

If you are interested in supporting this effort, the organization is in need of relocating, so funds are greatly needed. As always, 30% of the profits from any of my PawPrintArt cards sold during the month of January will be donated to WHAR Wolf Rescue. If you are interested in donating directly, you can do that through their website: http://www.wharwolves.org/index.htm.

Thank you for helping to ensure that these beautiful animals are properly cared for! ~Zoe

Chapter 10: Graduation Day

2010-01-11T06:30:00.000-08:00

After weeks of puppy kindergarten, graduation day finally arrived. My hu-mom packed up the car and we drove to the campus for a final "test" of our skills, followed by a graduation ceremony.

The test included being put through the paces...and we were required to follow through on each of the commands learned over the past weeks: sit, stay, down come, stay, etc. I passed and my hu-mom was given my sheepskin...ahem, I mean diploma (sorry all you little lambies out there!).

My graduation day...such a proud day, yet such a humiliating day. You see, the only other dogs who "stuck with it" through to graduation day were the chihuahuas. One of my classmates humans was very proud of her little one's accomplishment and made a special graduation hat "for the official graduation photo." The mortarboard was passed around so we could ALL have photos taken to mark the special day. All I can say is I know how Marmaduke feels, for I was truly a giant amongst a class of miniatures on my graduation day....

And so here it is...my proudest...yet most humbling moment captured on film...

~Zoe

Friday's Favorite Foto

2010-01-08T06:30:00.000-08:00

Aw come on mom...let me in...

Thursday's Tip: Pill Pockets

2010-01-07T06:30:00.000-08:00

I shared yesterday about how Kip is on so many medications...taken twice a day. My humans have tried putting his pills in his food, but Kip manages to eat around the medications. They have tried a number of ways to get Kip to take his multiple medications, but found that the easiest way is to put them all in/around a "Pill Pocket" and feed it to him just before he eats his morning and evening meal. No fuss, no muss, no drama.

Pill Pockets are available for dogs and cats and can be purchased at most pet supply stores. ~Zoe

Wednesday's Weave: Yesterday's Mission

2010-01-06T06:30:00.000-08:00

Last night I went on a run with my hu-man. That in itself is not unusual, but last nights route was different -- we were on a mission. You see, we ran to Kip's veterinarian's office to pick up Kip's medications.

Kip has had quite the life -- I have shared about him being a guard dog, before my humans took him in. He went from being a fat outside dog chained to a shed, to a dog who was taken on walks...and eventually short runs...and invited into the house. Kip has become an integral part of our family and as a member of the family his care and medical care are of utmost importance.

We have learned over the years that Kip is susceptible to tumors. He has several benign tumors on the outside of his body, but two years ago he started "acting funny" and his vet diagnosed him with a splenic tumor. My humans had planned to go to Italy to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary, but Kip needed surgery and instead of going to Italy, they funded Kip's surgery. Poor Kip, it turned out that he had a 10 lb. tumor removed from his abdominal region.

Kip was given medication and a 50/50 chance of "making it." Well two years have passed and I am happy to report that Kip is still with us. Yes he is showing signs of aging, and he has developed a rather large adipose (fatty) tumor on the right side of his chest that can't be operated on, (because his vet doesn't think he can handle the anesthesia or surgery), but he gets his multiple medications twice a day, and he is well cared for and loved on by our hu-mom and hu-man.

Our mission was an important one. I'm thankful that I have Kip and will gladly run to his veterinarian's office to pick up refills of the medications that keep him going. ~Zoe

Happy New Year!

2010-01-04T06:30:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to take the opportunity to welcome you to twenty-ten -- a new decade. I look forward to this new decade and will resume regular blogging...tomorrow.

Until then, have a Blessed New Year! ~Zoe

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-21T00:01:00.000-08:00

Please click here for a special Christmas message.

Merry Christmas! ~Zoe

Fridays Favorite Foto

2009-12-18T06:30:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling a little playful...

Now that's what I'm talking about!

Take time to play today! ~Zoe

Thursdays Tip: Keeping Your Pet Safe from Holiday Hazards

2009-12-17T06:30:00.000-08:00

I love the Christmas Season -- all the lights, ornaments, bright red flowers, and the smell of pine! Those ornaments look fun...round and sparkly. I want my hu-mom or hu-man to throw them so I could go fetch it, but for some reason they keep them up high and away from me... ~Zoe

Zoe's hu-mom here. The holiday season is filled with trees, lights, decorations and flowers that bring us joy, but they may be dangerous to your pets. Today I thought I would share a few tips from the Dumb Friends League to be aware of, in order to allow you AND your pet(s) enjoy the holidays.

Christmas Tree Safety:

If you have a live Christmas tree, there are a couple of things you want to be aware of: 1) keep the water stand covered -- Pine sap mixed with water makes a poisonous drink for your pet. 2) The smell of a live tree may cause your dog to "mark" the tree -- you may want to consider keeping your tree in an isolated room, or on a table top.
If your tree is on the floor, decorate the bottom third of the tree with non-breakable ornaments.
Secure your Christmas tree to a wall or ceiling hook with sturdy fishing line. This will help prevent the tree from toppling over should your pet jump on it or accidently knock it over.
If you see that an ornament, ornament hook, tinsel, ribbon, etc. has fallen on the floor, please pick it up immediately. These things can cause serious internal injuries if your pet ingests them.
Make sure your tree lights don't hang so low that your pet could get entangled in them, and ALWAYS unplug the lights when you are not home and your pet is.

Holiday Treats

Holiday treats are tempting to our pets too, so please keep holiday treats and candies out of your pet's reach. Also please be aware that chocolate, onions, raisins and alcohol can be fatal to dogs!

Holiday Plants

Some holiday plants are poisonious, so please place your poinsettias, mistletoe and other popular holiday plants out of the reach of your pets.

Enjoy a safe Christmas and holiday season! ~Deborah (Zoe's hu-mom)

Wednesday's Weave: The Great American Melodrama

2009-12-16T06:30:00.000-08:00

Last night my hu-mom and her BFF Saundra went to the Great American Melodrama in Oceano, CA. They saw "The Holiday Extravaganza: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens -- A Brand-New Fractured Fairy-tale Opera by Marian Partee & Jordan Richardson. The Melodrama does a great job, has wonderfully talented performers, and is VERY creative...well at least according to my hu-mom!

Scrooge

Little Red Riding Hood (a VERY modern version!)

Reindeer Rap (Yes, Rudolph finally gets to join in the Reindeer games!)

The 12 Days of Christmas (VERY creative!)

At this point you are probably wondering why I'm talking about the Melodrama, but please bear with me...

At the Melodrama, if you are lucky enough to get a seat on the main floor of the theatre, they seat you at a table for four...well, being that there were just two in my hu-mom's party, they were seated with two ladies -- Rosie from Riverside and Rosie's sister, from Wyoming. Anyway, before the performance started...and during the intermissions, my hu-mom and Saundra talked with Rosie and Rosie's sister. They quickly learned that they all had something in common...their dog-sons and dog-ters. As they chatted, my hu-mom was impressed with the bond that humans have with their canines and the incredible love that helps to heal the wounded heart. You see, Rosie and her sister shared about some very difficult times in their lives that their dog-sons and dog-ters helped them through. Yes, that is one of the traits we canines have...that of unconditional love. Whether you are happy, sad, stressed, angry, etc. we can sense it and will respond.

Our lives are interwoven for a reason. Today, I encourage you to look around at those you come in contact with and offer a smile...and if that someone you come in contact with is a canine, then a scratch behind the ears...but if it is a dog that is unknown to you, please ask the owners permission first.

Have a woof-derful day! ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: Update on Cooper's Dog

2009-12-15T06:30:00.000-08:00

It never ceases to amaze me, just how giving the heart can be.

As you know, we have been following Cooper, the four year old with severe allergies and asthma, who needs an an allergen alert dog. We have seen his fund raising efforts go from a couple of thousand dollars to just over $5,000.00, half the amount needed, and enough for him to order his dog.

Well the dog is on order and is currently going through the testing and training necessary to detect Cooper's specific allergens.

Today, I am happy to report that Cooper's family has now exceeded the $10,000 mark!

Yes, the children of Bishops Peak Elementary in San Luis Obispo, worked really hard to recycle goods this past year and through "Jack's Helping Hand", presented Coopers family with a $5,000 check to help Cooper get his dog...and the training that goes along with that process. Evidently, once the dog is trained, the family has a 2 week mandatory trip to Colorado to train with the dog. The donation from Jack's Helping Hand will help with travel expenses (car rental, gas, hotel, etc).

Thank you to everyone who has touched the life of this little boy...and thank you Cooper family for sharing your story, your need, and for touching our lives! ~Zoe

Chapter 9: Puppy Kindergarten (continued)

2009-12-14T06:30:00.000-08:00

Well, here we are with more on Puppy Kindergarten. So far we have covered the things our humans need to keep in mind:
1. The importance of trust
2. Our learning capabilities
3. The importance of hard work
4. How to put on and use our collars properly
5. The three voices (correction, neutral, and command)
6. The importance of timing

Basic commands:
1. Sit
2. Come
3. Down
4. Stay

And best of all... Puppy Massage!

This week we put all of the above into practice...

Then Lisa broke it up by introducing us to the outdoor exercise equipment on campus. She wanted our humans to expose us to multiple surfaces and heights, so we wouldn't be fearful when approaching changes in the surface of our walking paths -- also, she told our humans that this exercise would help build trust. Lisa had us climb up and down a small incline, walk on bumpy surfaces, asphalt, dirt, grass, cement and across a wobbly plank of wood.

This week was pretty intense and ended with my favorite...a Puppy Massage. Ahhhhh.

Until tomorrow, have a Grrrrreat day! ~Zoe

Friday's Favorite Foto

2009-12-11T06:30:00.000-08:00

Living near the ocean, you learn to appreciate sea life. Today's favorite photo has nothing to do with dogs...but lions. Sea Lions to be exact.

Over Thanksgiving weekend, my hu-mom and hu-man took a walk down the Avila Beach pier and took the following photos...

Note the sign...

All I can say, is where there is a will, there is a way! ~Zoe

Thursday's Tip: Homemade Dog Biscuits

2009-12-10T06:30:00.000-08:00

If you are one who loves to give Gifts from the heart, you may want to consider this for a homemade Christmas or Holiday gift for your favorite dog friends..

Homemade Dog Biscuits

This recipe is straight from Martha Stewart (the original can be found on her website at http://www.marthastewart.com/article/homemade-dog-biscuits. But if you don't want to click the link, here goes...

Ingredients (Makes about 5 dozen)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/4 cup brewer's yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 tablespoons canola oil
1 clove garlic, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup low-sodium canned chicken stock, plus more for brushing

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, wheat germ, yeast, and salt; set aside
2. In a large bowl, combine oil and garlic. Add stock and flour mixture in three alternating batches, beginning and ending with stock. Mix well.

3. On a lightly floured work surface, roll out dough to about 3/8-inch thick. Shape biscuits using a dog-bone-shaped cookie cutter or by cutting around a store-bought dog bone with a butter knife.(Make biscuits that are appropriate for your dog's size.)

4. If desired, you can spell out your dog's name or a holiday message in the dough with a toothpick (wet the toothpick first so it won't stick).

5. Transfer to parchment-lined baking sheets. Repeat with remaining dough.

6. Bake biscuits 10 minutes. Brush with stock; rotate baking sheets, and bake 10 minutes more. Turn off oven, leaving door closed. Let dog biscuits stand in oven to dry completely, about 1 1/2 hours. Wrap as a gift, or store in an airtight container at room temperature.

(From The Martha Stewart Show)

They're GRRRRRRRReat! ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas!

2009-12-08T06:30:00.000-08:00

And all over the world, there are children making Christmas lists. Many of those lists will include "a puppy" or "a kitten". Puppies and kittens are big responsibilities, but if you are ready to take the plunge, I would like you to consider opening your home to a rescue dog or cat.

A number of rescue organizations exist, but the one I would like to share with you today is the Southern California Labrador Retriever Rescue, Inc. They have grown from "7 members to over a hundred people who work throughout southern California to assist Labrador Retrievers in need. They are nonprofit, and recognized under the Internal Revenue Code 501(c)3 as a charitable, tax exempt organization. All the money that they earn goes toward our mission of rehabilitating and rehoming Labrador Retrievers, and educating the public about these wonderful dogs."

The SCLRR works to place rescue and foster dogs with families. A number of dogs are currently available and if you have the time and resources to rescue or foster a Labrador in need, please contact the SCLRR (if you are in Southern California), or the Labrador Retriever Club's National Coordinator, Luanne Lindsay .

Thank you! ~Zoe

Woof!

2009-12-07T06:30:00.000-08:00

Hello. Thanks for checking in today. Due to the fact that I don't have opposable thumbs, I need my hu-mom to help me post to my blog. She was gone this weekend so she wasn't able to help me with today's post.

We'll be back tomorrow, though, with our Tuesday's Telling.

Have a PAWSitively wonderful day! ~Zoe

Friday's Favorite Foto

2009-12-04T06:30:00.000-08:00

I see a camera -- that must mean S-M-I-L-E...

Thursday's Tip

2009-12-03T06:30:00.000-08:00

Rubber gloves seem to be a staple at the veterinarians office...and according to my hu-mom, they are also used regularly at her doctor's office, dentist, hospital, place of business, etc.

So today's tip is to take something that is readily available and use them to help solve a common problem...dog hair. I don't know about you, but I'm a shedder. I leave my hair EVERYWHERE and my hu-mom is always sweeping, vacuuming, and lint-removing, trying to get rid of it all. Well, did you know that a rubber glove is HIGHLY effective as a dog hair picker upper? Yes, all you have to do is put on the glove and run it over your sofa, pant leg, etc. and it gathers up all of those stray hairs!

Have a shed free day! ~Zoe

Wednesday's Weave: Kip & Zoe

2009-12-02T06:30:00.000-08:00

I love Kip. He made the way for me to come live with my human family, and he takes such good care of me. He has a gentle heart and takes his job of taking care of me seriously. As you know, I was recently sick, and Kip kept me reassured that all would be better soon, by giving me kisses -- lots of them!

Well, I'm feeling better now and we're back to playing together. I say the ball is mine...and Kip says it's his...

Hey, I've got to go...he's strong and I want my ball! ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: An Update on Cooper's Allergen Alert Dog

2009-12-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

We have been following Cooper, a 4-year old boy with severe allergies, who is in need of an allergen alert dog. The family posted the following update, and I thought you might like to read it straight from Cooper's Mom...

About a month ago we raised a total of $5,000. Everyone who’s following Coopers Journey knows what a big deal this was for us. This was the big day, which we have all been waiting for… Cooper’s dog can now begin training! Many of you expressed your happiness and excitement for Cooper with our family and it was so special. I am thankful for all of you! As for me I cried, I shouted with joy, I thanked God for all the wonderful people who helped us get here, and I hugged my son with all my might.

We know many of you are anxiously waiting for an update on Cooper’s dog, and so are we! The process is not simple. Dogs are like humans, some are able to do things that others are not. There is very little that we know about Cooper’s dog, except that he will be an Australian Labradoddle. Angel Service Dogs has to follow certain regulation when training a dog to become a service dog. First is obedience. The dog has to act on command: Sit, down, stay, walk easily, no signs of aggression, recall, sit in public places and so on. Once he passes that and earns his certificate, he must be able to detect a peanut from a building, vehicle, or luggage in five minutes or less to become "peanut" certified. From there he needs to be able to “stack” which means, he needs to pick up the scent of cashews, get certified, pecans, get certified, walnuts get certified, and so on until he meets Coopers needs, and with the same regulations as a peanut. Some dogs will be able to do this, and some will not. This is why we won’t know which dog will be Coopers until we get “the phone call”. Trust me, it is hard. I want to post pictures, I want to tell you his name, and how he is progressing but I can’t. All I know, is we are hoping to get Cooper’s dog in about six months. This will allow Cooper and the dog to become familiar with each other before Cooper starts kindergarten. (Which by the way, these dogs have been detecting peanuts from “peanut free tables”. Just as an FYI to parents of peanut/nut allergic children.)

Our family is rooting for Ranger. He is a beautiful, brown Australian Labradoodle that is simply adorable. He’s about a year old, and is in training to become peanut certified. He aired on the today show and is working hard, to meet the needs of a child, we are just hoping that child is Cooper! I promise to keep you updated as often as I can, and again thank all of you for your support! http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/33825344#33825344

Thank you again, to everyone who has contributed to help Cooper get his dog. Additional funds are still needed to pay for the dog, so if you would like to help out, you can do so by purchasing my PawPrintArt cards, or by donating at Cooper's blog (http://coopersdog.blogspot.com/). ~Zoe

Chapter 8: Puppy Kindergarten Continues...

2009-11-30T06:30:00.000-08:00

Things went well after the first two weeks of Puppy Kindergarten and my hu-mom and I practiced the "Sit" and "Come" commands until we had it down. In fact, this wasn't part of the training that Lisa gave us, but my hu-mom heard about using hand signals, so in addition to voice commands, she also would give me hand commands, for "sit" and "come".

Here is the hand command my hu-mom used for "Sit"...

She started with her hand down at her side, palm forward, and as she said "Sit", she would bend her elbow and raise her palm up so it was parallel with the ground.

The "come" command was a bit more dramatic...

but she said it was necessary so that if I was off at a distance or there was too much noise and I couldn't hear her, she could put her arms out to the side (a big movement), and I would come running into her open arms.

So, as I said before, we had fun practicing the "Sit" and Come" commands, but now it was time to learn the "Down" and "Stay" commands, and follow it up with Puppy Massage....aaaahhhh....

The "Down" command was taught by having us sit -- then a treat was placed in front of our noses, and our humans pulled the treat down and away from us, so that we would follow with our nose... As soon as our elbows hit the ground, we were given our treats. My hu-mom learned quickly that she had to move the treat away from me a couple of feet, otherwise all I did was look like the hunchback of Notre Dame, but didn't accomplish the "down" command.

Instead of saying "No" to me all of the time, my hu-mom would say "Augh!" whenever she wanted me to NOT do something. I must confess, the "Stay" command was filled with lots of "aughs!"...

My hu-mom was instructed to have me sit, then she would place her palm in front of my nose and say, "Stay". She would then take a step back, wait a couple of seconds, then call me with a "come" command. At first it was a little confusing, because she had a treat in her hand and I wanted that treat, so when she started moving away from me without giving me the treat, the foodie in me took over and I would follow her to get that treat! She would "augh!" me, and take me back to the starting point, have me sit again...give me the "stay" command...again...then take a step or two away from me, wait a couple of seconds, then call me to "come." I finally got the hang of it and she could more and more steps away from me and I would wait until she called me.

I must confess that after hearing so many "Aughs!" in one session, I was ready for the puppy massage. Lisa showed our humans how to give us a deep, but gentle massage using small circular motions from our head to our tail, down our legs, in the little indentation just above our paws, and how to rub our muzzles, ears, face. She told our humans that as they touched us, they built trust, and got us used to touch. Lisa said that it would help us to not be afraid when other people tried to touch us, including the Veterinarian. All I can say is THANK YOU LISA...I LOVE MY MASSAGES!!!!! (If you want to learn more about puppy massage, click here)

In fact, it's time for one now, so I'll be in touch again tomorrow. BUT, before I go, there is just one thing. A reminder to Vote for Liberty! Today is the last day of the contest, and I would really like to see Liberty ride on a Rose Parade float, so if you haven't voted, please click here and do so today.

Thank you and have a WOOF-derful day! ~Zoe

Wednesday's Weave: HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2009-11-25T06:30:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's have been about weaving together two different stories into one. Today, as we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, I wanted to thank you, for becoming a part of the fibers of my life.

Through this blog, I have gotten to meet so many wonderful people and animals, and I am so thankful that you are a part of my life. I love getting your comments and emails, and learning more about you...and enjoying the fact that we are all connected in a way.

So today's post is short, but sweet. Thank you, for sharing your life with me. May you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and enjoy celebrating and appreciating the blessings of your life. ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: Hot Temperatures Can Be Fatal to Your Dog

2009-11-24T06:30:00.000-08:00

Good Day! Today I want to share something with you that will hopefully save lives everywhere. My hu-mom came home from the grocery store yesterday incensed because in the car next to ours, was a dog, all alone, in the sun, with the windows up. The dog was barking and my hu-mom was concerned for the dog's health, because of the heat.

She carries around the following flyers, and wanted me to share them with you.

I've never been left in the car under those conditions, so I don't know what it's like, but I imagine it could be very uncomfortable.

Anyway, if you would like the flyer that she carries, it is available at the My Dog is Cool website (http://www.mydogiscool.com/downloads/MDIC_flier-red.pdf). The flyer is two-sided and can be downloaded and printed from your home printer.

On behalf of my fellow canines, thank you! ~Zoe

Chapter 7: Puppy Kindergarten

2009-11-23T11:28:00.001-08:00

I didn’t know what to expect from “school,” but when we arrived at the outdoor classroom, there were other puppies and humans to sniff and play with, I knew I was going to love it!

My teacher, Lisa, didn’t hold back and shared as much as she could with our humans. Based on the type of collar that our humans had purchased for us (pinch or slip), she showed them how to properly put them on and use them, so we wouldn’t be hurt.

My hu-mom preferred the use of the pinch collar (based on the training she had received from Nick), but she did learn the proper way to use a slip collar (if she ever had need).

Lisa also shared about the “three voices” our humans should use when working with us:

First there was the low-pitched “correction” voice. She said this voice is used with authoritative and domineering (but not threatening) body language, with eye contact and no smile.
Next, there is the pleased or neutral voice. It is more high-pitched and enthusiastic. It is accompanied with a smile and the body can be lower to the ground. This is the “Good dog!” voice.
The third voice is the “command” voice. The voice is calm, confident and firm, and the body language is upright, not domineering, with eye contact. This voice is one that makes statements and not a question voice. For example, it is NOT “ssssiiiiiiitttt????? it is a simple “sit”. Period.

The last thing that Lisa shared before we got started with our “education”, was the importance of timing. She explained to our humans that treating and praise must be immediate, following a positive response to a command. She said that waiting any longer than a few seconds wouldn’t allow us to connect the treat/praise to the command.

Now that our humans were armed with how to properly put on our collars and leashes, how to use their voice, and how to reward us in a timely manner, we were ready to start working together.

First on the list was the ‘sit” command. Our humans were armed with treats and they were instructed to hold a treat near our nose, then move it up towards the top of our head, so that we naturally raised our heads and lowered our bottoms. As soon as our bottoms hit the ground, our humans said, “sit” and rewarded us with the treat. We did this over and over again until we “got it.” If we “failed” to respond, Lisa showed our humans how to gently pull up and back on the leash to get us to respond.

Once we had the “sit” command we moved on to the “come” command. Our humans would ask us to “sit” then take a step away from us, hold out a treat and say, “come.” We were given the treat, and our humans were encouraged to greet us with much praise.

We did this over and over, with our humans taking more and more steps away from us as we became consistent with our response.

Lisa said that the “come” command is very important and could save our lives, one day, so she encouraged our humans to practice this command often, and be sure they kept their voice happy (never frustrated or angry), and gave us lots of praise when we responded.

Lisa had us switch humans, so we could practice responding to other people…and so our humans could also learn how to work with puppies of other breeds. She also would try to distract us with a toy, puppy, talking, etc., when our humans called us to “come”—she wanted to make sure that no matter what, we responded to our humans.

My hu-mom and I had great fun learning together, and as we learned “commands” together, it was wonderful knowing exactly what my hu-mom and hu-man meant when they talked to me. I loved the treats and praise that I received whenever I responded appropriately to the “sit” and “come” commands.

Next week, the “stay” and “down” commands, along with puppy massage.

Friday's Favorite Foto (and update about Zoe)

2009-11-20T13:32:00.000-08:00

Today's favorite photo if posted by my hu-mom....

She says this is a favorite photo because I am "on the mend." It has been a long and hard week. I have been having trouble with my intestines and my humans were very concerned. All I was doing was laying around -- I had absolutely no appetite, and whenever I would try to eat I would lose it at one or both ends. I had no energy for anything at all, not even looking out the front window, which is one of my favorite things to do when in the house.

My hu-mom is thankful for Dr. Stephens and the staff at Coast Veterinary Clinic, for taking such good care of me. I'm thankful too -- thank you!

So my hu-mom says this is a new "favorite" photo because I've made it through the worst and here I am with my shaved stomach and pink bandage (hiding a catheter port used to give me fluids), looking out the window. I must confess, I did sleep some, while in this position, but my hu-mom was happy that my body is responding to the treatment, my appetite is back (as of this morning), and I'm starting to do those things that are more normal for me.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers! ~Zoe

Zoe Update

2009-11-18T07:55:00.001-08:00

I think this photo says it all….

Zoe’s hu-mom here…poor little Zoe had a rough night and will be going in to see the vet again this morning.

Your continued thoughts and prayers are appreciated! ~Deborah

Tuesday's Telling

2009-11-17T06:30:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone...This is Zoe's hu-mom signing in for Zoe. She is sick today, but she asked me to check in and give you all an update on Cooper. She said we don't have an update yet, for last weekend's Ride for a Reason, but she will update you on that just as soon as she has some info.

In regards to Cooper, thank you, thank you, thank you! So far $6,150 has been donated towards Cooper's allergen-alert dog. From what we understand, Cooper has been tested to determine all known allergens, and the dog is on order and will be trained specifically to detect Cooper's allergens.

And now, as a concerned Mom, please keep Zoe in your thoughts and prayers. She has an intestinal infection and hasn't eaten anything since Saturday night. She saw her veterinarian yesterday and they examined and x-rayed her and sent her home with some antibiotics and strict orders to not feed her for the rest of the day, and begin a bland diet today. She's not her usual self, so again, your thoughts and prayers are appreciated. ~Deborah

Chapter 6: Puppy Kindergarten - Orientation

2009-11-16T06:30:00.000-08:00

Yes, that first spring arrived and my hu-mom told me it was time for me to go to school -- Puppy Kindergarten to be specific. My hu-mom signed us up and we attended at the local community college.

My teacher's name was Lisa...and she was so nice!

She met my hu-mom and the other humans before meeting us puppies, and she gave them a welcome packet -- complete with resources needed to help us puppies build a successful and rewarding relationship with our humans!

Lisa shared about the importance of trust, leadership, and leadership! Yes, according to Lisa, if we canines sense that our humans are not going to lead us, we fill in the void ourselves...and that will NOT turn out well!

She also shared that every puppy is unique and learns at it's own capability, speed and need -- just like humans! I think she shared that with our humans just so they wouldn't get so frustrated when one puppy in the class picked something up faster than another...

Lisa also shared that, "When people don't make time to train or establish structure, dogs become unruly, at times impossible to control." Sadly, this type of situation accounts for a number of the dogs taken to animal shelters by their owners.

And with that, Lisa told our humans that "behavior CAN be changed" and asked, "How much are you willing to work at it?"

And best of all, she encouraged our humans to let the classes and training sessions be a special time for us to bond and have fun.

Our class schedule:
Week 1 - Orientation (humans only)
Week 2 - Come command
Week 3 - Sit command / come command with distractions
Week 4 - Stay command / toy gauntlet / puppy massage (my favorite!)
Week 5 - Down command / combination exercises
Week 6 - Graduation

Equipment list:
collars / leashes
toys
food / water bowls
premium puppy food (i.e. some food that is really good & motivates your puppy!)
treats
Grooming items (including Dental)
Books / videos

Well, that's it for orientation. Now it was time for our humans to go home, read through the packet of information that Lisa provided, and arrive next week with puppies in tow, ready to work!

And for today...Something to make you smile...

"What a dog hears"

Next Week -- Puppy Kindergarten -- from a puppie's perspective...

Friday's Favorite Foto

2009-11-13T06:30:00.000-08:00

I've been pretty quiet on Fridays, but decided to start posting some "favorite photos". Friday's postings will be short, but I hope you enjoy them nonetheless...

This photo is a favorite because it is part of my morning "ritual." My hu-man sleeps with a t-shirt on (sorry dad, I hope I'm not sharing anything too personal!). Anyway, in the morning before he takes his shower, I jump up on the bed and he lays his t-shirt over me. It is like getting a warm hug from my hu-man. I usually fall asleep and enjoy the hug. ~Zoe

Thursday's Tip: Lab Puppy Training Course

2009-11-12T06:30:00.000-08:00

Hello! Thank you for checking in for today's tip. Actually, today tip is that there is a wonderful 10 day puppy training course to help you "Have a Happy, content Lab Puppy in 10 Days (or Less) -- starting your new life with your Puppy as stress free as possible.".

Susanne at Lab Puppy Training (http://labpuppytraining.com/) offers a 10 day course for training not just your Lab puppy, but all puppies. The course is FREE and includes positive training methods for:

Puppy proofing your home
Things you need to buy for your puppy
Puppy car safety
Puppy toilet training
First night with your puppy
Puppy crate/cage training
Stop your puppy from biting
Puppy leash training
Puppy bonding
Puppy recall training
Puppy Aggression

and a host of other subjects.

My hu-mom and hu-man received a lot of good information from my dog mom and dad's humans, but my hu-mom says Susanne's information is great for anyone just starting out with a new puppy, because "we can always learn."

I would also like to add that you can tell Susanne loves her dogs, because her training methods are humane and make learning fun. So, please check out Susanne's Lab Puppy Training course at http://labpuppytraining.com/ and you will be on the way to enjoying your early days with your puppy. ~Zoe

Wednesday's Weave: Liberty

2009-11-11T06:30:00.000-08:00

So far, Wednesday's have been devoted to weaving together the story of Kip and me, but today I am going to deviate a bit.

Today I'd like to share with you about Liberty, "the scholarly dog."

My hu-mom's friend Maggie, from high school, is Liberty's hu-mom. Maggie works for the U.S. Government, so it's not surprising that she would name her dog Liberty. Liberty comes from a line of patriot dogs -- there was Justice (his grandfather), Freedom (his father), and of course his girlfriend's name is Betsy Ross.

My hu-mom and Maggie were in the marching band in high school. Their high school band was invited to participate in the world famous Rose Parade, but due to circumstances beyond their control, their band didn't participate.

So now, Maggie's dog Liberty has a chance to participate in that famous parade. Liberty, "the scholarly dog" has been entered in the Natural Balance pet food contest, to win a spot on a Rose Parade float, but he needs your vote!

So today I ask for your vote for Liberty...the scholarly dog. To vote, please click here to go to the official contest page, then all you have to do is click the "VOTE" button above Liberty's photo. The contest ends November 30, 2009, so please vote soon.

Thank you, and may we always know Liberty! ~Zoe

Tuesday's Telling: Rescue Ride at the Ranch

2009-11-10T06:30:00.000-08:00

First, an update on Cooper's allergen-alert Dog -- it has been ordered! Thank you to everyone who purchased PawPrintArt cards during the month of October -- together we contributed $20 to help Cooper get his dog! To learn more about Cooper and his need for an allergen-alert dog...and to help support the cause, please click here.

For the remainder of the month of November, we will be supporting Equine Rescue -- specifically, Miller's no-kill sanctuary for rescued and unwanted horses.

Miller's takes in unwanted horses, evaluates, retrains or nurses them back to health, and then gives them a purpose. Miller's sanctuary horses are available for sale, adoption, fostering, using as a companion, or sponsored to work in Miller's programs.

"Miller's is a rescue facility. They work with Animal Services and other non-profits to provide a home for all types of horses that would otherwise be sent to slaughter or put down due to circumstances other than terminal illness."

So how can you help? Well if you are looking for a reason to visit California's Central Coast this weekend, Miller's is sponsoring a "Ride For a Reason" on November 14th at Santa Margarita Ranch. Details about the ride can be found at the Miller's Sanctuary Website (http://www.millersecs.org/).

For the month of November, 30% of the profits from my PawPrintArt cards will be going to help support Miller's Sanctuary, so if you need any Thanksgiving (or animal related) cards, please consider PawPrintArt cards.

Thank you for caring for animals everywhere! ~Zoe

Chapter 5: Clicker Training

2009-11-09T06:30:00.000-08:00

I've explained that my hu-mom and hu-man were not what you call "dog" people, so when I came along, they had no experience with children, or puppies, so they read books, watched The Dog Whisperer, sought out advice wherever they could, and trained me as best they could.

My hu-mom learned about clicker training, and this turned out to be something that really "clicked" with me = ) She did two things: 1) she watched my natural tendencies, and when I did something that she wanted me to "repeat", she would click the clicker and put a name to it; and 2) she used treats and the clicker to form a response from me.

For example... when she wanted me to sit, she would take a treat and place it near my nose, then move it back towards the top of my head. In order for my eyes to follow, I had to sit down. As soon as I sat, she clicked, said "sit" and gave me a treat -- followed by a lot of praise.

My next command to learn was "down," for lay down. Again my hu-mom took a treat and while I sat, she put the treat in front of my nose, then pulled it down towards the ground...and away from me a bit. This made my nose follow the treat and as soon as my front elbows hit the floor, she clicked, said "down" and gave me the treat. We practiced this for quite some time, then she put the two together in what she called "puppy push-ups."

What are Puppy Push-ups you ask? Well, they are calisthenics for dogs, silly! My hu-mom would say "sit"...then "down"...then "sit"...then "down" Puppy push-ups were fun, still are, tiring, but you should see my biceps!

My hu-mom and I spent hours clicker training and as a result I can do many tricks on voice command...and hand motion command, but that's another story and I'll share more about that later.

Until next time, have fun with and challenge your puppy, then give him/her lots of loving! ~Zoe

Thursday's Tip: Traveling with Your Puppy/Dog

2009-11-05T06:30:00.000-08:00

Ah, there's nothing like the feel of a puppy or a small dog -- so cute, soft and cuddly. Yes we are cute and cuddly, but the car is NOT the place to hold and cuddle us. Just as there are baby seats to protect small babies when traveling in the car, there are ways to keep us safe from airbags, flying objects, or from becoming a flying object.

Today we turn to an article posted by Susanne at http://www.labpuppytraining.com/ to share the proper way to travel with your puppy. To read the article, please click here, or watch the following video for the Cliff Notes....

Until next time, have fun traveling and living life with your pets! ~Zoe

Wednesday's Weave

2009-11-04T06:30:00.000-08:00

Kip was living the good life with my hu-mom and hu-man, along with Goldie the cat and the chickens. Kip and Goldie roamed in the yard constantly, and the chickens dug and scratched around the yard during the day, but were put away into their chicken coop at night to protect them from the possums and racoons.

All were fine until the neighbor decided to replace the fence that separated our yards (unfortunately they neglected to tell my hu-mom and hu-man about it...) Anyway, they hired a work crew who came and tore out the fence and set about to replace it. Well the fence line is long and they didn't finish in a day, so they leaned something up against the railing. Well, at that time we had a neighbor who let their dog do pretty much whatever it wanted, and it decided that what it wanted was our chickens. So it pushed through the temporary barrier that was the fence, entered our back yard, jumped over the picket fence that surrounded the chicken coop, broke through the wire that enclosed the chicken coop and killed the chickens.

By the time my hu-mom and hu-man got out to the chicken coop, the dog was nowhere in sight and all that was left were chicken carcasses and the dog's collar and ID tags. My hu-man went to the owner to tell them what had happened and return the collar, and the human offered no apology and absolutely no remorse. I shared earlier how the chickens came to be a part of the family, so you know how much they meant to my humans, so I'll just take the opportunity to remind you that if you are a pet owner, you are the human and it is up to you to be responsible and watch, protect and train those who are in your care.

Sorry, I didn't mean to jump on my soapbox...okay, back to the story....

With the chickens gone, it was just Kip and Goldie to roam around in the yard and keep each other company. That is until my hu-man learned that his friends had "lost" their cat. They raved about how much that cat meant to them and how much they missed it. Well, the man ended up going away to heaven, leaving his wife all alone. My hu-man felt sad for the lady and offered our loving Goldie to her, to help her with her grief.

So after the chicken's demise and Goldie's change of address, Kip was all alone. Oh, my hu-mom and hu-man would invite Cadence (a yellow lab who lives down the street) over for play dates, but they knew it was not enough. Kip needed a companion, and that is what opened the door for me to come live with my hu-mom, hu-man and Kip.

Tuesday's Telling: Cooper's Dog Update

2009-11-03T06:30:00.000-08:00

For those of you checking in for the first time, we have been following Cooper, a four-year old little boy with severe asthma and allergys. To help Cooper live a more normal life, we are doing what we can to help Cooper get an allergen alert dog, to help detect and protect Cooper from his particular allergens.

The price of this specially trained dog is $10,000.00, and Cooper's family is more than half way to their target. At $5,000.00 they had enough to order the dog, but now, they still need $4,700.00 to pay for Cooper's dog in full.

We are so thankful for everyone who has contributed directly to Cooper, Angel Service Dogs, or through the purchase of my Paw Print Art Cards.

Cooper's allergen-alert dog will be trained by Angel Service Dogs -- if you would like to know more about them, they will be on the Today Show this Friday (November 6th).

Today's posting is short, but sweet -- there is hope for Cooper thanks to Angel Service Dogs and you!

Have a terrific tuesday! ~Zoe

Chapter 4: Let the Training Begin

2009-11-02T06:30:00.000-08:00

I had a lot of energy when I was a young pup, and my hu-mom, with no dog experience, didn't know how to walk me. Oh she tried, she hooked on a leash to my collar and I pulled her down the street. Next she tried a halti collar, and I absolutely refused to move with that thing on!

Since the walk wasn't happening, my hu-mom knew I needed exercise, so instead of the frustration of trying to walk me, she started putting me through a one-hour workout in the backyard every day. She would throw the ball, play tug, and anything else she could think of to get me to run around and get rid of some of my energy. Our play time eventually became a trick training time and I learned how to respond to a clicker. I knew that if I did what she wanted me to, I would get a treat -- and I loooooovvvvveeee treats!

Although my hu-mom and I had a great time playing in the backyard, she heard about "The Dog Whisperer" show on the National Geographic channel, and she learned the importance of "the walk." So, she strapped on the leash and tried again....and again.... I continued to pull -- afterall, I was just a young pup with lots of energy, and I wanted to explore the world! After much frustration on my hu-mom's part, she finally called "Nick" to teach her how to walk me.

Nick came to our home and the first thing he did was tell my hu-mom that I was using the wrong collar. He pulled out a pinch-collar and when my mom saw it, she broke down in tears. She thought it looked like a torture device and she DID NOT want that thing around my poor little puppy neck!

Nick explained how the "device" worked and placed it on my hu-moms forearm. He showed her how if I walked "nicely", the collar just sat on my neck, however if I started to pull, all she had to do was give a quick "correction" (that he demonstrated on her forearm), and how that would get me back on track to walking without pulling. He also showed her how it would feel if she used the collar and allowed me to continue to pull -- it was not pleasant!

My hu-mom saw that the collar could be "good" or "bad" depending on how SHE used it. Thankfully I have a hu-mom who loves me, so she agreed to use the collar in the "good" way.

Nick showed her how to walk and correct me, and after one session, we were a much improved team and able to walk -- and walk we did!

...what mom? time for a walk? Well I guess that is it for today folks. Check in again tomorrow for more from the Zoe-Chronicles. ~Zoe

Thursday's Tips: Puppy Training

2009-10-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

I've heard from some humans that they loved the "idea" of getting a puppy, but once they brought their puppy home, they weren't quite sure what to do with "it." Well, I've shared about the great advice that my dog-mom and dad's humans gave my hu-mom & hu-man, but I also want to share a new website that offers puppy training -- specifically "lab" puppy training, but I think it will help ALL puppy owners. The website is called "Lab Puppy Training" and can be found at www.LabPuppyTraining.com You will find things like what to do "your first night with your puppy" (http://labpuppytraining.com/198/first-night-with-new-puppy/) ; "Puppy Night Training" (http://labpuppytraining.com/201/puppy-night-training/) etc.

Check it out, I think it will help both you and your humans get off to a good start!

Well, I hear my bowl being filled, so it's off to breakfast. Have a WOOFderful day! ~ Zoe

Wednesday's Weave

2009-10-28T06:30:00.000-07:00

If you are new to my blog, this is just to let you know that woven into my story is the story of Kip. So here we go with the 2nd installement of Kip's story...

When Kip came to live with my hu-mom and hu-man, he was overweight and in need of a good grooming. Poor Kip, he came back from the groomer with his glorious locks shaved!

Before I came along, Kip wasn't alone. He had Goldie (a cat that had also belonged to my hu-man's Mom and Dad),

and the chickens...

but the chickens are another story entirely. If you are really curious, you can read about them here.

My hu-mom and hu-man worried how Kip would respond to the chickens, and when they saw him laying on the ground with his paw wrapped around one of them, they were quite concerned! BUT, no worries. Kip wasn't trying to hurt the chicken, he was just "cleaning" it. My hu-mom says she wishes she had a photo to share with you of the chicken's soaking wet head, following Kip's "cleaning", but unfortunately no photos were taken.

Yes, Kip proved that he is a fine mix of steel and velvet. He is a great watch dog, but he is also a lover of his humans, cats, chickens, and now me!

Tuesday's Telling: Cooper's Dog

2009-10-27T06:30:00.000-07:00

We've been following Cooper, a 4-year old little boy with severe allergies and ashthma, and his need for an allergen-alert dog.

Cooper's family has raised $5,000 in 8 weeks, with another $5,000 to go. The good news is that with half the money raised, Cooper's dog can be ordered.

So what is the next step? Well, Cooper had to go to his Allergest for testing, to make sure he doesn't have any additional food allergies. Once they know for certain all of his allergens, they can notify Angel Service Dogs, and the dog will be trained specifically for Cooper.

If you would like to help Cooper get his dog, you can contribute directly through his website, or if would like to purchase my PawPrintArt cards, please know that 30% of the profits will go to help Cooper get his dog.

Thank you again and have a PAWfectly wonderful day! ~Zoe

Chapter 3: New Puppy Advice

2009-10-26T06:30:00.000-07:00

My dog-mom and dad's humans, Michael and Karen sent my hu-mom and hu-man home with a file folder filled with my "history", my schedule, advice, and me....

My history included information about my dog-mom and dad's pedigree, and my operation, shot and medical information to date.

My schedule...
And advice...

Since my hu-mom and hu-man had never had a puppy before, Michael and Karen wanted to make sure that we would "adjust" well to one another, so they gave my hu-mom and hu-man the following advice....

They said that if I ever chewed up something that I wasn't supposed to, peed inside the house, or did something that I wasn't supposed to, my hu-mom and hu-man should roll up a newspaper and....(oh I know what you are thinking, but wait...) they should whack themselves on the side of the head with it, because they are the humans and it is up to them to provide a "puppy-proof" environment, let me out when I should be let out, and provide a nurturing environment for me.

They also encouraged my hu-mom and hu-man to touch and massage my paws, so I would be used to the touch and wouldn't go ballistic when it was times to get my nails clipped.

They also had the same advice for touching and massaging my ears, so ear-cleaning wouldn't be traumatic.

They also showed my hu-mom and hu-man to touch my muzzle, clean my eyes, and open my mouth and dig things out, that shouldn't be there -- (I gave them plenty of opportunity to practice this one in those early days!) All of this was designed to get my hu-mom and hu-man used to touching me...and me getting used to them touching me, so that when I was a "big" dog, I wouldn't growl at or bite them when I saw them coming near my face.

Michael and Karen told my hu-mom and hu-man that I was smart, so they should challenge me, give me plenty of time and attention, and most of all love.

And it is with the above information and advice that we started our new live together....

Portraits of Life

2009-10-22T06:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm not the only artist in the family -- my hu-mom is an artist too. While my art is pretty much thematic and focuses on my paw print, she paints what she calls "Portraits of life -- of people, pets, places and favorite things." If you'd like to see more of her art, please check out her blog at http://debjeffrey.blogspot.com/, or her website at http://www.debjeffrey.com/

Have a terrific Thursday! ~Zoe

Wednesday's Weave

2009-10-21T06:30:00.000-07:00

Woven into my story, is the story of Kip – my brother from another mother…and father. Kip was my hu-man’s Daddy’s guard dog. Not much is known about Kip’s life, before he came to live with my hu-mom and hu-man, but I’ll share what I know.

Kip is a german shepherd mix – we know that because he has some German Shepherd features, black and tan coloring, curved tail, barrel chest, narrow hips, dark rimmed eyes, a long nose, and he’s huge! The other part of the mix is an unknown – people have guessed Corgi, due to his rounded ears and kind face, but that is something we will never know.

German Shepherd



                                              Corgi

Kip

I mentioned before that Kip was a guard dog. His job was to bark – and he did (and still does) his job well!

Kip spent his days and nights at his Daddy’s business. When my hu-mom and hu-man would go visit, they kept their distance from Kip – they were afraid of him! When my hu-man’s Daddy retired, Kip came to live with him and his wife at their home as an “outdoor” dog. When my hu-man’s Daddy went away to heaven, my hu-man swallowed his fear and went and let Kip off his chain….

My hu-mom says that right after my hu-man let Kip off his chain, he ran an errand and left her and Kip alone at the house -- my hu-mom inside and Kip outside – they still hadn’t met face to face. While my hu-man was gone, some “seedy looking character” came to the gate, and Kip went into action. He went to the front door, stood in front of it, faced the person at the gate and started barking. My hu-mom came to the door and her heart was changed. She knew in that instant that Kip meant to protect her and not hurt her.

My hu-mom and hu-man returned from that trip with Kip in tow. My hu-mom and hu-man were not what you call “dog” people, so Kip was an outdoor dog and wasn’t allowed in the house – afterall, dogs are dirty, smelly, sheddy and slobbery…or at least that was the perception.

Kip has become an important member of the family and I’ll share more about him in next Wednesday’s Weave.

Tuesday's Telling: Give a Boy a Dog Update

2009-10-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

I am absolutely pAWEd by the way humans have rallied together to help support Cooper Giron and his need for an allergen-alert dog. The Giron family has now raised $5,000.00 -- that means they can now order Cooper's dog! Cooper's dog will come from Angel Service Dogs, and although there is still an additional $5,000.00 to be raised, ASD can start training a dog specifically for Cooper.

We dogs have a great sense of smell, so according to Angel Service Dogs, "Scent detection is a perfect job for a correctly trained dog" and "once trained by a master trainer, a dog will be able to detect trace elements of an allergen in any form; raw, cooked, oil, butter, dust, etc." I'm so happy that one of my canine buddies will have such an important job!

I want to PAWsonally thank you too, for purchasing my PawPrintArt cards. We have sold 11 to date and 30% of the profits will go to help Cooper get his dog. If you are in need of Thanksigving cards, you may want to consider our Turkey PawPrintArt card -- it will provide you with a whimsical card that you can send your loved ones AND help support animal and human rescue.

Well, time for a belly rub, so I'll talk with you again soon... Zoe

Chapter 2: The Gift

2009-10-19T06:30:00.000-07:00

According to my hu-mom, the greatest gift was me...

and the 2nd greatest gift that my dog-mom and dad’s humans gave was the gift of house-training!

My dog-mom and dad’s humans, Karen & Michael), spent their early days watching over us puppies, making sure we well cared for, socialized, and….house-trained. They would herd us all outside every two hours, after every feeding, and after every nap. My hu-mom says Karen & Michael were sleep-deprived during those first weeks, but that they did a great job, and she is happy to report that I have never had an accident in the house.

In my early days, I was trained to sleep in a crate at night, and when I needed to go outside to “do my business,” I would give a little bark – just one, and my hu-mom or hu-man would let me out. We have since moved away from the crate and I have a bed next to my hu-mom and hu-man’s bed -- but if I just can’t wait to go outside in the middle of the night, I still give what my hu-mom calls my “puppy bark,” and one of them lets me out.

My hu-mom calls my house-training the 2nd greatest gift, because she has heard horror stories, (and she watches, “It’s Me or the Dog”), so she knows what a truly selfless gift Michael and Karen gave.

For help with house-training, Leah at Attaboy Dog Obedience & Training recommends: http://www.hssv.org/docs/behavior/dog_housetraining.pdf

And now I open the floor to you and your experience – How did you overcome the adjustment period to a new dog or cat? We’d love to hear your story....

Tuesday's Telling: Give a Boy a Dog

2009-10-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

Tuesday's will feature a short story about an animal, person or situation that could use a little support and encouragement.

Today's story is about Cooper Giron, a 4-year old boy who has severe asthma and a unique medical condition that leaves him highly allergic to a number of things.

Cooper's parents are trying to make Cooper's life as "normal" as possible, however as most kids can just run outside and live life without a care, Cooper can't leave home without his "best friend," an emergency pack containing epinephrine (to counter shock) and his asthmatic inhalers. You see, any contact with the allergens could send him into potentially fatal anaphylactic shock.

Cooper's family has learned that there is an allergen-alert service dog that could help Cooper, and they are trying to raise $10,000.00 to get one for Cooper. Just like drug-sniffing dogs used by law encorcement, an allergen-alert service dog would never leave Cooper's side -- it would warn him of the presence of any allergens, and if he is exposed, the dog would alert a supervising adult -- it would also carry Cooper's emergency medical pack.

The family has raised $3,600.00 to date, so any assistance you can give would be greatly appreciated.

As you know, my hu-mom and I are making Paw Print Art from my paw prints and my hu-mom's imagination. We sold our first two cards today and we are honored to be able to donate 30% of the profits to help Cooper buy his dog.

I can't tell you how excited I am that I could help get Cooper his dog. If you would like to donate to this cause, you can purchase my Paw Print Art (30% of the profits will be donated to the cause), or donations can be made through Cooper's blog.

If you have a story that you would like for us to feature on our "Tuesday's Telling", please email me at ZoeChronicles@aol.com, for consideration. Thank you again and have a woof-derful day!

Chapter 1: Hello World!

2009-10-12T20:00:00.001-07:00

According to my hu-mom, everyone has a story.
My story began December 16, 2005, when I was 1 of a litter of 9, born to Aspen, (an AKC Registered Yellow Lab), and Ruckus, (an AKC Registered Golden Retriever).

My dog mom and dad’s humans (Karen & Michael), planned on keeping 2 of us puppies, and adopting out the rest to friends.

Karen & Michael gave us names that described our character. There was BT (bent tail), Chubbs (self explanatory), Chaos, etc., and me, Rudy, short for Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer.

Karen & Michael had a constant flow of people to see, play with, love on, and hold us puppies – to make sure that we were well socialized.

My hu-mom (Deborah) and hu-man (David) would come visit – David liked to get down on our level and be surrounded by puppies. He was convinced that they “needed” a puppy.

Deborah was a little more subdued. Oh she loved and doted on us, but she wasn’t convinced that she/they were ready for the responsibility of a puppy.

You see, just six months earlier, David’s Father had gone away to heaven and his guard-dog Kip was left without a home.

David and Deborah adopted him, but with past experience with cats and chickens only, they were still just learning what it meant to be “dog” people.

So, what changed their mind? Well, initially their mind was made up for them. Deborah had waited so long to decide, that all of the puppies were spoken for.

Then one of those “life events” occured– you know the kind, one of those experiences that is painful and doesn’t make sense, but it is important for growth --

David’s sister Carole died on February 14^th, 2006. When Carole was a young girl, she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. She was operated on and told she would not live very long, and she would never have children. God had other plans, though, and Carole had one son and lived until lung cancer claimed her life at the age of 62. Carole lived her life with a huge scar on her neck, a constant reminder of the incredible miracle that was her life.

After Carole’s death, Deborah had a change of heart and felt that she was ready for the responsibility of a puppy, but not just any puppy – me!

You see, when I was just a “young girl”, I was diagnosed with a physical problem that without surgery, would have certainly cost me my life. I forgot the medical name for what I had, but there was an artery that wrapped around my esophagus and it prevented me from eating solid food. I had to have surgery to correct the situation and at 7 weeks of age, I was left with a huge scar on my chest and side that I too would carry as a constant reminder of the miracle of my life.

Fortunately, Karen and Michael loved David and Deborah so much that they gave me up so that I could go live with them. David and Deborah changed my name from Rudy to Zoe, meaning “life” in Greek.
And now you know how I got my name and how I came to live with David, Deborah and Kip.

So be encouraged, difficult and seemingly hopeless situations can result in GREAT blessing!