Dog Tales + #MyPostMonday The Week's Best Original Content

Let's talk about dogs, shall we? This summer my own sweet Evee is into her twilight years. Her snout is turning grey, she has trouble getting up when in resting position, she doesn't run after frisbees like she used to (she's good for about 5 minutes and then she's done). When we go on our morning walks, she really loves it, but it pretty much wears her out for the rest of the day. She and my dad are the biggest pals. They love taking naps together, he in his recliner and Evee at his feet. She's had a happy life. I've gone above and beyond trying to make her life happy. And she has certainly made mine sweeter.

But it's not Evee that I'll be perseverating on today. I have a few recent stories I'd like to share!

Story 1: I occasionally see a certain fellow dog-owner on my walks. She has two dogs with her and she has them leashed per the park ordinance that all dogs must be leashed. One of them isn't so friendly, by her own admission, so she doesn't appreciate people with dogs that aren't leashed because usually those dogs want to approach other dogs and demonstrate their amazing hiney-sniffing skills. Just as an FYI, some dogs and humans don't appreciate being approached by uninvited dogs or pets. It leads to awkward encounters that shouldn't have to be endured when you're out on a walk, minding your own business. But beyond that, some encounters go way past mere awkwardness. For instance this woman told me about a leashed dog who was approached by, not only an unleashed dog, but an unleashed pit bull and true to the stereotype, the pit bull launched into the leashed dog and ripped the unsuspecting dog up. This was documented on the neighborhood app and an alert went out to watch out for that owner and dog. But not to be reliant on an app, my leash-loving friend with the two dogs now carries a gun. She claims she wants to enjoy her walks. Believe me, whenever we cross paths, I make sure to move over and give her a wide berth! But are her fears unfounded? Who wants to meet someone's crazy dog and get into harm's way?

How To Choose Your Child's First Pet

As you might know, I am a huge animal lover, and especially have an affinity for dogs. They are such intelligent and loving creatures and humans do well learning from them. I feel like anyone who has a shred of good in them, or has a hope to have good instilled within them, should have a dog, or at least access to one. Dogs are ultra sensitive, giving, loyal, and loving, to name just a few characteristics! Having said that, you want to have a pet that is right for you and your child! There is nothing more sad than seeing a dog dropped off at the shelter because the owners couldn't handle the responsibility of being dog owners. Shelters are not any kind of substitute for a caring and loving home. Shelters try to adopt the dogs out, but if they can't within a certain window of time, the future isn't good for that once wanted and loved puppy.

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I am featuring a guest writer who is in agreement with me on those points! Introducing Cassandra Matheson! Take it away, Cassandra!

"A dog is the only thing in the world that loves you more than you love yourself," said Josh Billings. For this reason and many more, dogs are the most popular companion animals, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Among cage and exotic animals, aquarium fish are more preferred as compared to their closest competitors which include rabbits, ferrets, turtles, and snakes.

 At some point in their childhood, most kids will ask their parents for a pet. Selecting the perfect one should be done with caution as it will create a foundation for the child to become a worthy pet owner in the future. The ideal pet should give your child a great experience while sparing your finances. 

Are You And Your Child Ready For A Pet?

The first  two questions to ask yourself are whether the child is ready to adopt the pet and if you are ready to monitor the new household. As a mother, you should not hand over the care of a new pet entirely to your children, especially if they are young. "Parents have the ultimate responsibility for pet care. If you give your child chores to do for the pet, such as walking the dog, you need to ensure that it is done," said Melissa Bain, an assistant professor at Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Prior to acquiring a pet, you should check your kids for obedience. If he or she can understand and follow basic instructions, they have a better chance of keeping the new pet safe and well fed. Another trait to look for is gentleness. Your child should have control of the force she uses to touch the animal, lest she risks hurting it. Additionally, they should have a sense of responsibility so that they are able to feed and take care of the new pet, even in your absence.

Matching With The Perfect Pet 

While finding the right pet, Bain advises being realistic about both the child and the pet. For instance, an overly active kid should be supervised closely more than one who is calm. She also added that the most difficult combination is an active child and a nervous pet. When it comes to the new pets, the most common problems as observed by veterinarians are aggression and adaptation to the new environment. As such, you should conduct sufficient research on the breed while comparing its traits against your family's lifestyle and requirements. Particularly, dogs and cats should be introduced and socialized using reinforcement techniques if necessary. To achieve good results in establishing a smooth relationship, you can opt for professional pet obedience training. 

A first pet is an exciting but demanding challenge for your young son or daughter. While looking for one, remember that there is a big chance that he or she has never been responsible for something as involving and delicate. This means that you should monitor the whole process of acquisition from the word go. While at it, don't forget to consult a pet store or veterinary for advice on how to feed, clean and play with the new pet!   


 

Hey....It's OK

There are a few things this month that I think are okay! They are:

--This is the driest winter Utah has had, possibly ever. I've loved not having to plow walks, nor worry about road conditions, 60 lb. icicles falling off my roof and gutters, piles of dirty snow in the street, insane winter drivers, or having to wear clunky snow boots. Never mind that our world-famous skiing has been crippled and that we'll be paying in spades when the reservoirs run dry. For now, it's OK! Update: 2 days later, we got 10 inches of snow!

--I got the flu over the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. Me, the health and wellness advocate and blogger, getting the flu? In my defense I haven't had so much as a cold in, like, 4 years. I was getting a little cocky about the whole thing. But then it hit me and for a minute, I remembered why I hate getting sick. But on the flip side, I got a whole lot of sleep. And I realized, sleep is such a good thing! Plus, I lost some of that holiday poundage that I had sworn I'd keep off, but didn't. So this time, it's Ok that the flu came and paid me a visit. Just don't come back again for a very, very long time. You won't be welcome.

Why Our Family Dog Sometimes Gets Preferential Treatment

We have been dog-owners for a long time! My first dog was Duke, our German Shepherd. I was around 16 years old and didn't really appreciate Duke because although he was lovable and friendly, I didn't fancy him jumping up and licking me with his "disgusting" slobbery tongue. He just wasn't my cup of tea....until I got older and learned that he could accompany me on walks and runs. We soon became fast friends. I remember how sad we all were when my dad finally had to put him down because of hip dysplaisia. It wasn't until I got married that I rediscovered dogs and the wonderful friends they are. I've brought a few puppies home, to the surprise of my husband and delight of my sons. 

For the last 14 years we have been border collie owners because they are so smart and we both had to agree on one breed. If you can weather the puppy stage with nothing more than a few things chewed up, border collies make the best of friends, as I imagine any other breed does, depending on the characteristics that you prefer.

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Once in awhile my husband gets mildly resentful of how much our dog, Evee, and I get along and my sometimes seeming preference of her over him. He has actually said that sometimes he gets jealous! Imagine that, preferring my dog's company over a man! Here are a few reasons my dog may sometimes get the nod before some humans!

1) No sarcastic comments - Granted, there are usually no comments from Evee, but the sarcastic kind especially are not to be found. I find that very relaxing and refreshing after being at work at a high school! Evee has her own way of telling me where to place my priorities and usually that is by her body position. She literally blocks me with her body from things I may be doing that don't involve her! I somehow find that cute! Now if my husband were to do that....

2) Doesn't bargain for my love - My dog loves me unconditionally, and if I don't feel like being warm and fuzzy at the moment, or the whole day, she will wait patiently until I feel up to it and will love me no matter what.

3) No idle chit chat - A friendly lick, nuzzle, or thump of the tail on the floor is sometimes all I really need or want.

4) Submits to my rules - If I decide that today is an outside day, then outside it is! My chair is my chair and that is that. No sitting in the car front seat and no eating people food (unless it's a special occasion, like leftovers! heh heh) No questions asked, she's happy to oblige. She knows she gets lots of special things and knows that rules are necessary for mama's well-being and happiness!

The Dog Day Of Summer At 'This Is The Place Heritage Park'

I feel like I have become an unofficial ambassador of sorts for 'This Is The Place Heritage Park! It is just the best place out there because of all the fun family events and amenities. Now they've got a new event that is coming up this Saturday! It's called, appropriately, the 'Dog Day Of Summer' Event!

 For any and all of you who have and love dogs, this will be THE place to be! Check this out:
Just $5.00 admission, this will be the best time for your dogs to be the focus of your time and attention. Not only will there be a route for a walk in the park, but sponsor, "I And Love And You" dog food will provide a free meal and poop bags for your furry friend! But that's not all! Meet celebrity dogs, Harlow, Indiana and Reese! Get your pics taken with them and check out their New York Times Best-selling book and have it autographed while you're there! There will be swag and free dog treats available, as well as dog bling at the Heritage Park Gift Shop and other vendors!

 You can find the route for the dog walk here. If you would like to participate in the walk/parade, please register here!

You can bet we'll be there with our feisty rescue girl, Evee! She is a border collie that we found in our local paper for $50. She snarled at me the first time we met and bit my husband's hand when he wanted to pet her. It's been almost 7 years, and she has made such progress! She catches frisbee like a champ and is so loving in our family. But she still has some spunk and feistiness left!

Don't have a dog? Maybe you'll find your match at the event! There will be dog adoptions through the Utah Humane Society from 10:00 a.m. through 1:00 p.m.!

Psst....don't forget to mention 'A GAL NEEDS...' for $2.00 off the price of regular admission every day!(A portion of all proceeds will be donated to animal shelters and other animal friendly organizations.)
Disclosure: I was provided free admission to this event in exchange for PR. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A Book About A Boy And His Dog(s)

I love me a good book, a book that will at once engage me, relax me and take me out of the day with no nightmares or heavy thought-provoking head stuff.  I don't want to be a book critic.  If I like it, I like it.  I don't question form, I don't question method, style or intent.  I just want to be engaged and taught. I like character development.  I don't like heavy sex or violence.  I felt that I found that kind of book when I read 'The Story of Edger Sawtell.'  When I find a good book, it's hard for me to do anything else but read, hence my absence from the blog.  I read it when I could, which was mainly at night before going to sleep.  

I happen to be a dog lover.  This book taught me a lot about dogs, even though I have owned a dog at least half of my life.  I suppose I got it because it was recommended to me at my local library, where I was searching for a book.  I didn't even realize that it was on Oprah's book club.  I don't like to read reviews too much before getting into the book because sometimes that influences my choice and I like to judge things for myself.  Normally, you would think that a subject such as this would be a Young Adult Reading List book.  But it isn't.  It is written for adults and has some complex themes in it. 

Boys and dogs just go together.  This is my boy and his dog!

  I loved the language David Wroblewski used in descriptions, I loved his imagination in dreaming up the characters and their histories.  I admit that I didn't understand some of his additions to the story and some of the characters weren't as well developed as they could be, for instance the old woman at the grocery store was fascinating, but where on earth did she come from and why was she the way she was?  No clue!  

One thing I do know, If no one has ever had a dog, after finishing The Story of Edgar Sawtelle, I would venture to say you'll feel as though you've had one all your life. It made me appreciate my own Evee so much.  I didn't even mind that he sometimes made the dogs have thoughts and feelings like humans.  It was so touching because I believe that if animals were to have human-like thoughts,  Wroblewski nailed it.  

I also loved the way the relationship between the father and son turned out.  Here is a very inward and stoic boy who never really was able to express much to his parents and finally in the end, he was able to say and show exactly what was the most important.  It made me cry..and don't even start me about his own personal dog, Almondine.  I know that many people read this book and I was probably the only reader who hadn't up to this point.  I'm glad that I waited.  I was ready for this book and it was worth the read.  

I went to GoodReads and looked at some of the reviews and gad, there are a lot of cynics in this world.  I really couldn't believe all of the meanness.  But you like what you like, and thank goodness there are authors like Wroblewski who can write up a novel that is sensitive, descriptive, exciting, imaginative and thought-provoking all in one good read. 

Just The Right Fit

Have you ever met my dog, Evee?  Let me introduce you to her!  She is our Border Collie.  We got her from an ad in our local paper for $50.  The owners just couldn't handle her in their small twin home with the tiny backyard.  They had great intentions...but she was just too much dog for them, at 10 months old.  She had developed some horrible habits.  She snarled at anyone who approached her, including me when I met her for the first time.  It really unnerved me and I thought I was a seasoned dog lover.  She chased down anything moving in her field of vision, including bikes, scooters, joggers, walkers, bikes and cars.  And she was so energetic that she was a pest.  She always wanted to play with toys and fetch her squeaky ball. 

After much deliberation and going back and forth, we decided to get her.  She was to be the replacement for our beloved dog, Daisy, who passed away from Lymphoma. See my tribute to her here! 

Without going into details, we have had Evee now for about 10 months.  She has really come far with her behavior and maturity.  As she approaches the 2 year old mark, we are so glad that we got her.  One of the big problems she had with her former owners, is that she is so very intelligent.  With all that intelligence and no cognitive stimulation or exercise, a dog is bound to get into some really bad habits.  Since I wanted a dog to encourage me to get out of the house and onto the trails, Evee is a perfect match for me.  We get out everyday and run or walk.  I can't, as of yet, take her to crowded places because she still likes to chase things and people.  But she is getting better.  I have taught her how to catch frisbees and she absolutely loves that.  I feel that with time Evee will mature into the ideal dog that Greg and I were looking for.  

 Finally, a word of advice and caution for all those who are looking to bring a new pet into their lives.  Make sure that you have the  right information about the type of dog you want.  If you can't devote a lot of time to your pet, you don't want to get one.  I know of people who have dogs and who never take them out, even to the bathroom.  I feel so sorry for these animals. Animals deserve care and attention, too.

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Recently, I was introduced to a company that provides specialized pet products.  I was really impressed with the prices and the high quality of their personalized dog collars.  The company is called SafeTPet!  I ordered a personalized dog collar for Evee that I absolutely love.  It is very high quality and has her name and phone number  sewn onto it.   Most I.D collars have metal buckle type fastners and the end of the nylon collar dangles and frays.  These don't. There is no extra material dangling down.  You provide the exact measurements of your dogs neck and it is made to fit!  The site is simple to navigate and I like the large color selection. These I.D. collars are great for agility dogs because they are not allowed to wear metal or dangling tags in the ring!

 

Just a Little Rest!

It's been a long week and I'm a little tired!  The Census is well underway and as usual, everything should have been done yesterday, so while last month there were a lot of days where there was no work (and no pay), now, it's all the work you need and more!  Yesterday I was in charge of an operation that involved doing an entire mobile home court in a town about 35 miles from me.  There was only 1 person who showed up to help me, a sweet lady of about 60 years old.  But we did OK, getting count of about 145 people.  After that I was up until 1:30 am doing repetitive forms and back up at 6:00 to finish by the deadline.  The sad thing is that a good amount of the respondents had already done their census forms (or said they did) and sent them in, but we still had to do it, just to make sure.  Yes, there were also a lot who hadn't done it!

I ran into a lot of Spanish speakers and since I don't speak Spanish, I basically handed them a Spanish form and pointed to the items that needed to be filled in.  They got the point and most were very nice about it.  There was just the one Smart Alec who said he didn't have to.  (Did you know it's the law, you are required by law to fill out the census!)  I said, "Actually, yeah it's the law." He said, "Why are jew lying to me?"  "Sir, I'm not lying! Please call my boss if you have questions!" (I flashed my badge with phone numbers). Luckily, there were no more comments from him after that.

I had a really scary moment when I walked into a fenced yard, knocked on the door and a very irate golden lab came charging out of a dog door!  I wasn't too worried at first because Golden Labs are usually nice, aren't they?  But this one apparently sensed my surprise and alarm and started snarling, barking and growling.  I was not about to test him and proceeded to get the gate open as quickly as I could.  Unfortunately, it was a trick latch and my fumbling fingers couldn't seem to open it.  I prayed that I could get this gate open because the dog was upon me and my hind-quarters were very unprotected and exposed to sharp teeth. But I couldn't get the thing open.  I had trapped myself in the lair of a howling monster - my imminent demise was certain!  Fortunately the neighbors across the street saw my plight and started calling said monster off.  The woman actually came over, yelling Spanish at the dog and even though he was still barking, it distracted him enough and gave me time to figure out the ridiculously complicated latch and hurriedly make my exit.  Needless to say, I was very grateful to that very kind woman for saving my buttocks from being punctured! So yeah, I'm a little gassed! Nothing that a great weekend can't cure though!

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