My Dog Smash OgreDog

Smash is a beautiful and loving dog. His favorite thing to do is take his humans for a walk in the woods. Here he is lapping water after a run through the woods across the creek. I love this picture with the reflection of him drinking water like a wolf.

Every time we go outside, Smash is ready to run! We just have to say "Let's Go!", and off he runs.

Here are a few sights along one of our walks.

  

Dog Guards Master's Grave

This story of a dog in Argentina that found his master's grave and now stands guard over it really touched me. My dog Smash has always been very loyal and lovable.  This story shows the amazing conenction dogs have with their humans.

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/dog-stands-guard-over-deceased-owner-grave-six-190556479.html

OPC For Dogs

The Fall Season And OPC For Dogs

The weather is getting cooler and the leaves are falling off the trees in many colors, and I am feeling very frisky in the cool air. I love to play during this time of year because I can run and not get so very hot. My human parents have to put on jackets to come outside, but I think the weather is perfect. I still do not like thunderstorms and the rain on the roof is very loud. However, during these times I get to be inside the house where it is not so scary when it thunders.

During this time of year I get to take hikes in the woods around my humans' land. There are lots of other animals out here. There are squirrels, owls, hawks, raccoon, beavers, and deer. There are also coyotes. I usually bark at the coyotes to let them know to stay away, and I get lots of pet the puppy the next morning when I do this.

With the cooler temperatures I have noticed that humans tend to get more colds and coughs. Well pets can also get these same things. They especially can have allergies throughout the year. My humans help me to stay healthy by giving me a vitamin supplement know as OPC. It really helps me to stay healthy and it also helps me to stay active. To find out more about this product check out the shopbox below.

Smash the Guard Dog

Yesterday, I found a note from the gas company saying they wanted to do some work on our propane tank but the dog would not let them out of the truck. That is pretty funny for anyone who knows what a loving and gentle dog Smash is. But, I am really glad to know that he can play the part of a ferocious guard dog when he needs to.

I told him he had been a really good guard dog and to keep up the good work. He was probably mad that they did not want to play with him.

However, I know that he has really good instincts about people. And if he did not think they needed to be around when there was on one home, then I am sure he told them so.

He is a good dog.

Pet Health Insurance

My Dog Smash has had some pretty severe injuries over the years. Thankfully he seems to have slowed down on getting hurt. Sometimes the vet bills for putting him back together again have been pretty expensive. I had enough cash in reserve to handle the expenses at the time, but i hate to think about what would have happened if I had not had the cash on hand.

Pet Health insurance may be the answer to peace of mind about pet health care costs. Purina is now offering a pet health insurance plan. Check it out and see if it is right for you and your dog.

Dog House Financing

The southeast has been hit by a lot of natural disasters lately. If you have lost your dog house or your skin folks have lost their house, the good folks at Hometown Lenders are offering special 100% financing to get a new house.

Contact Ben or Eric about a special deal: http://myhometownllc.com

A walk in the park

Smash is an outdoor dog and loves to roam free on our farm. However he also likes to go for rides in the Jeep.

Lately he has been walking to the back of the Jeep when the hatch is open and putting a paw on the bumper signaling that he wants to go. He has looked so sad when I tell him no. he just goes and lays in the the grass and pouts.

Yesterday I took him to town for a walk in his favorite park. As soon as he was out of the Jeep he was ready to go find the creek. I made him wait impatiently for our friends to arrive.

Once they were there he endured hugs from Jennifer's boys before we set off down the trail. We ducked under the fence and Smash dove in to the water. He swam around in a circle limited by the length of his leash. He was much happier to be wet.

He greeted another dog near one of the benches. They made some friendly sniffs and then we headed on down the trail. Smash made friends every where except for one little Chihuahua that growled at him.

After the walk in the park, we took the boys and Smash for ice cream. Janice and Jennifer went inside while I waited with Smash in the parking lot. People in the drive through line asked about his leg and told him he was a pretty dog. Even if it was slightly unorerish, he loved the attention.

Janice had to hold his ice cream cup for him while he licked it clean. Then he insisted on helping me finish mine. I thought I might get super barked before let him have it but he waited patiently for me to give him the last bite.

Back int he Jeep he laid down on the back seat. When we got home he trotted out to the driveway and promptly took a nap. All the excitement had worn him out. He was a happy dog.

Storms in Cleveland Tn

Smash and I hiked the trails on our property yesterday and were happy to see no new trees down. The destruction nearby is amazing. Smash did a good job of guarding the bottom of the futon as we hung out in the back room of the house during the storm.

Smash took a quick swim in the creek. It is swollen but not flooded like is has been for the last few weeks.

Ticks

Whoever said there is no such thing as tick season must never have lived in east Tennessee. Smash has hardly had a tick in months. He is always running and playing in the woods no matter what the weather so the environment has not changed.

But since it has gotten warmer, Smash has been getting several ticks a day. Our afternoon pet the puppy session have become tick removal sessions. I usually just pluck them with my fingers, but sometimes they are hard to get to. That is when I rely on my TRIX tick remover.

The TRIX remover has a little noose that I can loop around the tick and gently twist it off. Smash really does not like it much as it always get a little hair but it always gets the whole tick.

I have used the TRIX on myself as well. It is easy to use and always gets the head out.

I have found the best place to buy them is EBAY: TRIX Tick Remover

April is Pet Safety Awareness Month

Pet Safety Awareness Month

This is Pet Safety Awareness month and I just want yo to know that keeping your pet safe and healthy may not always be easy, but it is very important.

When I first arrived at my new home I was a timid little puppy, but as I grew I became more accustomed to my surroundings and begin to visit the area. I have many acres to roam, and I find lots of interesting things to sniff and to chase. However, I have also found myself in some bad situations.

One such situation ended in me loosing a section of my nose. I was shot across the bridge of my nose and when I got home my dad tried to help me, but I was scared and I knew he was also. I ran off to my dog friend's home and he took care of me. The next morning my skin dad came and got me and took me to the veterinarian and he sewed my nose back together. This scared my skin parents, but it was never their fault I got hurt. I love my mom and dad and they do everything they can to protect me.

This past year I had to deal with my health. I had a really itchy time. my fur was falling out and I itched constantly. My mom and dad did alot of research and found out I was allergic to something in my food. It turned out to be something called Brewer's rice. They also found out I was allergic to flea and tick collars. They have since started to read labels on dog food, and sometimes they cook food for me. I also no longer wear flea and tick collars, but take a pill that helps get rid of fleas on me for about one month.

So you see, I have skin parents who love me and take good care of me. I have learned to stay out of most trouble, but sometimes I have to explore. I am an adventure dog and I love how my skin parents take care of me.

So if you have a pet I hope you love them, keep them as safe as possible, and do your best to keep them healthy. They will love you no matter what throughout their lifetime.

Here are some safety and health tips:

http://tinyurl.com/3pcu6z4

http://tinyurl.com/2daagly

The Love Test

If you ever want to know who loves you more try this test:

Place both your wife and your dog in the trunk of your car. Drive for thirty minutes. Park in a safe place and open the trunk. Now check to see which one is happy to see you.

Dogs help each other

When Smash's nose was seriously injured, the neighbor dogs took care of him and I am sure were critical to him surviving the night. It seems to be int he nature of dogs to take care of each other.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/japan/8386123/Loyal-Japanese-dog-leads-rescuers-to-mate.html

Silly Leash Laws

Smash is not a huge fan of leashes since he gets to spend most of his time running free on a farm. However when he goes to town or on hikes in public parks he is always on his leash. He runs to the truck when he sees you get the leash out and looks forward to the ride.

He also loves to go hike with kids. he is always very good when he knows a kid is holding the leash. He wont pull or try to run unless there is a very pesky squirrel or chipmunk around.

So Smash will have to say this leash law required only those over 18 to hold the leash is very silly. He would reccomend more dog training and less silly dog laws.

read the articel and you decide: http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local-beat/Manassas-Considers-Tightening-Its-Leash-Laws-116390564.html

Then hit the link on the sidebar to learn how to train a dog to walk on a leash.

Congratulations to Sutter

Thanks to Jerry Brown for choosing a rescue dog for the new first dog. Sutter looks like he is going to have fun living at the governor's mansion.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/unleashed/2011/02/california-gets-a-new-first-dog-pembroke-welsh-corgi-named-sutter-joins-jerry-browns-family.html

Smash Break dancing in the snow

During the last big snow, Smash enjoyed having us all outside playing whit him. He got so excited while we were sledding that he would lay on his back and squirm around like he was making snow angels.

See the video here:

Reading to dogs

Sometimes children are a little intimidated when they are learning to read. They don't like to read aloud to adults for fear of making a mistake and being judged harshly for the mistake. Dogs however are totally non judgmental and make excellent reading partners. Have you child practice reading to a dog. Dog's love the attention and the stories and the kids will learn to enjoy reading in a non judgmental environment.

Here are some books you might want to read to a dog: Dog Books for Children

Do dogs have souls?

There is an interesting debate over dogs and souls. Smash certainly shows a lot of emotion. Sometimes he get irritated. Sometimes he is scared. But most of the time he is very loving and caring.

According to these church signs, Catholic believe that god loves dogs and Presbyterians think dogs are rocks. http://www.ourrisingsound.com/2008/08/19/presbyterian-vs-catholic-church-sign-debate/

Here is an interesting article supporting the argument that dogs have souls: http://vetmedicine.about.com/library/viewers/uc-animal-souls.htm

But do dogs go to heaven? When Smash is laying in the sunshine chewing on a bone and being petted, he is already there. Since most people equate Heaven with the Kingdom of Heaven smash reminds us that Jesus said: Luke 17:20-21 (King James Version)

20And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:

21Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

Never sneak upon a dog

Buying a new dog house

If your people are looking for a new home, they will likely have to get it financed. That may not mean much to dogs but it is pretty important to people. While dogs can trade bones and socks in the sock market, people use dollars.

And very often those people who trade in dollars are not very nice folks. They make people nervous when they try to ask for money.

Well the folks at Home Town Lenders LLC of Cleveland Tn are not like that at all. They are very friendly folks who will do everything they can to help your people buy a nice house with a big yard for you to play in. And they love dogs, so they have to be good people.

If your people are in the market for a new home, have them talk to my friend Ben or one of his agents about getting a home loan. Visit their web site at www.myhometownllc.com to see some nifty calculators to see just how big of a dog house they can fit in their budget. Tell em Smash sent you.

Stars

Stars

Last night as I walked the trash can out our long driveway, I was amazed at how bright the stars were. I had not seen such brightness in the stars since I was last at Harlan.

I walked very slowly back to the house enjoying the view of the sky. I saw both the big and little dippers. I have never been able to recognize any of the other constellations. I just enjoyed the brightness of the little points of light contrasted against the cold black sky.

Back in the yard in the dim light of the icicle lights still n our front porch, my dog Smash took on a sudden playful urge. I had tried to get him to play chase with me when I first got home in the afternoon, but he was not interested then. I almost walked on into the warmth of the house and ignore his playfulness.

But inspired by the stars, I zipped my coat and began chasing Smash around the yard. He was very playful. He would drop the stuffed sheep and pretend to look away. They just as I reached for it he would scoop it up and run off in a circle around me. We played until I could no longer catch my breath.

Later that evening as I was getting ready for bed, I decided to sit up and read a bit. Just as I picked up my book to read, Smash started barking and whining.

I went down to see if he wanted out. He has been staying in the garage on cold nights but he often wants out to go puppying. But instead he went back to the rear bedroom. I lay down on the bed and picked up the book. Smash began barking at me. So, I went back to petting him.

In a few minutes he began to get antsy again. He paced around the room and then put a paw up on the bed. I tried to get him to jump but he would back away. I finally scooped him up and placed him on the bed beside me. He settled right down as I continued petting him. He calmed right down and went to sleep.

I was beginning to drift off to sleep when I felt the bed move. I looked up and saw the cat crawl up o the foot of the bed. Soon I was snoozing between the dog and the cat. It was very peaceful just laying there enjoying the warmth of my furry friends. All my cares, worries and fears seemed to melt away in to their fur.

I lay there a while before Janice finally came to check on me. She laughed when she saw me snuggled up between the cat and the dog.

Dogs for PTSD Therapy

Spending just 15 minutes with a dog is reported to give better results than Music or Art therapy. Dog have great healing power. You would think every one would know that by now.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/09171203089700;_ylt=AmpcfsVDCAW4HvPzuiHVtW1k24cA;_ylu=X3oDMTJ1bGNzb3MwBGFzc2V0Ay9zL3RpbWUvMDkxNzEyMDMwODk3MDAEY2NvZGUDbXBfZWNfOF8xMARjcG9zAzcEcG9zAzcEc2VjA3luX3RvcF9zdG9yaWVzBHNsawNicmluZ2luZ2RvZ3M-

Dogs Can Teach Us

Smash Is In The House

Yea!! I get to stay in the house while it is storming. I can stay warm and dry during this rainy, blustery day. I like to be in side the garage of the house lying in front of my skin mom's Jeep. I feel really secure.

My friend Link sometimes comes into the garage with me. He lies on top of the Jeep. Yeah, I know he is a cat, but he can't help that. He and I love to play chase with each other. Even when he gets to a tree first, he will come back down and let me chase him again. When I get there first I tag his nose and we run again. Life as a dog is really good, and I guess Link doesn't mind being a cat.

You know people could learn alot from us animals. We accept each other as we are and just enjoy life. We don't complain. We work to get along with everyone, and we don't worry about anything. Most of the time we live in a very peaceful environment. (It is not very peaceful for the dogs in service, and yes, we are thankful for the help they provide our service people.)

Still, people could take a few lessons from us. Accept others as they are. Make friends and enjoy just being in the moment.

Woof!! That's all for now.

Smash and Benton Falls

Smash's Hike to Benton Falls

This past Thursday, I took my dog Smash to Benton Falls in Polk County, TN. He was excited about getting to ride but he had no idea how much fun this hike would be.

When we arrived at Chilhowee there were two buses letting off 126 seventh graders from Ocoee Middle School. When the buses pulled away that is when Smash saw all the children. Some of them shouted, "Look at the dog!!" It was all fun with lots of pet the puppy.

Smash pulled me over to the children and as he was sniffing them they were all wanting to meet him. When we took off down the tail Smash wanted to be in front. (He knows the way to Benton Falls.) One young girl wanted to hold on to the the leash while we walked. Smash quickly knew someone else was holding the leash and he did what he does best, walk at a very fast pace.

As we approached the falls I took the leash and led Smash to the bottom of the falls. Here we walked on the boulders, wadded in the water and got a good cold drink. Several of the children got completely soaked and Smash wanted to show them how to shake off the excess water.

After seeing the falls, we hiked back to the picnic area where Smash walked around with his cute puppy eyes and asked to take care of the scraps as long as it wasn't chocolate or fruit. He also found out that dogs are not allowed on the beach at Chilhowee, but he didn't mind when he discovered that we were going to eat.

Overall, it was a fun day. Smash made lots of new friends and he got lots of pet the puppy. Smash is a good dog, and we love him:-)

Singing Dog

Smash loves to bark but I have never heard him sing. Maybe I will have to show him this video.

10 Tips from vets

http://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/pets-animals/stories/10-pieces-of-free-advice-from-a-vet

Smash agrees with this advice. There is nothing wrong with him being skinny. He just likes to run and play to keep in shape.

He also agrees that he is in a much better mood to visit the vet if he has had a chance to take a walk in the woods before he goes.

He actually likes going to the vet now. They give him lots of pet the puppy and make over how good he is. They did not even fuss too much when he decided to mark the desk as his territory last time he was there.

The Dog Days of Summer

A Dog's Point of View

This summer has been very hot for my dog Smash. He has been laying around most of the time just staying cool or at least staying as cool as possible. This past year Smash has had many skin issues, but I think one of the worst has been fleas. We have found a product that helps get rid of the fleas but here is Smash's take on it.

"The product is a pill that I have to take. It really tastes awful so I try to not swallow it. My Mommy had to try five times to get me to swallow it. I thought it was funny when I could get it between my teeth and lip. When she would think I swallowed it she would let go and I would spit it out on the ground. Hehehehehehehe!! I had fun doing this. However, I don't think Mommy thought it was as funny; therefore I swallowed the pill. Yes, I know it is a form of medicine, but within a few hours the fleas are gone and I no longer itch. Yeah!!"

Smash is correct. The pill really does work and the fleas are gone. This pill works for at least 30 days. I think it is better than putting the topical stuff on Smash since they irritate his skin more than the fleas.

Smash is a happy dog; especially when someone comes home and takes him for a swim in the creek. He also loves to get puppy petted. Lately he has been coming into the garage to stay cool and his friend Link the tuxedo cat enjoys being out in the hot summertime days.

Smash's friend visits the animal shelter

As part of a community service project, my son Caleb who is finishing up the 2nd grade at Sycamore Elementary School in Cookeville, TN visited the Cookeville-Putnam County Animal Shelter in April 2010.

http://heraldcitizen.uber.matchbin.net/printer_friendly/7177842

Smash and Caleb are very good friends. He has been a therapeutic dog for Caleb who mysteriously became scared of all puppies and dogs at a younger age. With the help of Smash, Caleb has become a little more relaxed around dogs as you can see in the photograph in the article.

Smash encourages people to spay or neuter their animals and to consider adopting from the shelter.

Smash Orge Dog

When I read Ogre, Ogre by Piers Anthony, I keep thinking about dogs. So when I got this puppy I named him after the character in the book, Smash Ogre.

Too bad the name seems to have been interpreted by the universe in a different way. Instead of being the smasher - Smash has been the smashee on to omany occasions. From a random gunshot wound or two to being hit by a car, attacked by an unknown wild animal, to severe food allergies, Smash has gotten pretty Smashed up over the years.

But he remains as lovable and loyal as ever. He is always ready for a romp in the woods. If a car door stays open too long, he will be inside waiting to ride.

He has been a great friend and companion. Just this morning as I was rolling the trash can up the driveway, he was so excited to walk with me that he kept zooming back and forth like Hammy the Squirrel.

I love my dog Smash and I look forward to many more adventures with him. I will keep you posted.

FDA says no bones for dogs?

Smash says the FDA has gone from preaching to meddling or a least just gone dog gone crazy on this advice. They say it is a bad idea to give bones to dogs. Now we know that chicken bones can splinter and not be so tasty but large bones ave been considered safe until now.

Smash tends to disagree with the FDA. He says if he does not get rib bones or steak bones, he will have to resort to dragging home dead dear and raccoon bones that he digs up in the woods. This may be an appropriate warning for fru fru city dogs but for country dogs like Smash, he says he will continue to clean his teeth on animal bones than you very much.

He also wants to remind people that the song is not: "Nick Nack Paddy wack give the dog a synthetic chew toy."

Read the FDA Alert here: No Bones for dogs

Smash says just give this dog a bone.

Be a fan of Smash on Facebook

Seems every one has a FaceBook fan page now days. Why not my dog Smash? Actually you don't become a fan any more, you just click I like Smash.

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Cleveland-TN/Smash/48034337711?ref=ts

Hiking with Smash

Today we took Smash on a hike near the Conasauga river along the Tennessee Georgia border. This is a nice easy hike and since Janice is still recovering from her heart attack and Jenny was recovering form food poisoning, it was just the kind of place we needed to get some fresh air.

I am not sure of the origins of the trail but it looks like and old railroad grade as it is very level and pretty much straight. I looks like it was used to move logs from the forest to the lumber mill down stream.

Smash enjoyed being the leader most of the way. He did a bit of pulling on the leash when I had him but when Jenny's son Hunter who is four held the leash, Smash walked along very calmly.

The trees were blooming and were very pretty along the trail. Smash met a few other dogs along the way and they were all very well behaved. He got a lot of pet the puppy from some folks back at the parking area who all wanted to hear the story of his leg.

Abraham understands dogs!

The risk of a few bugs in the eye is so worth it!!!!

Just say NO!

While Smash does not approve of clothes for dogs in general this one new fashion trend definitely goes too far in his opinion. He wants to remind all of you that "That dog will bite you!"

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/pets/detail?entry_id=56610

Shopping for dog food

Cooking for Smash has been a bit of a hassle this week so I thought I would get him some kibble to tide him over. He normally eats the Hill Science Diet Chicken and rice formula. I decided to grab a bag of their sensitive skin formula. I was shocked when I saw the label said Brewers rice as the first ingredient. Brewers rice is the ingredient that we have found is what CAUSES Smashes skin allergy!

I put that bag back and started looking for something else. I eventually found the Nutro Brand guaranteed to make your dogs skin better. No brewers rice is listed on the label and the rest of the ingredients look pretty good so that is what he is eating. I will take then up on their guarantee if it does not help him.

He got a bit of pinto beans and roast to supplement it tonight as well.

Smash Protests the Latest Lady Gaga Video!

While my dog Smash has enjoyed the use of the big black and white dog featured in Lady Gaga's previous videos, he is appalled at the scene in the diner where the dog is poisoned. See it for your self:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQ95z6ywcBY

Maybe it is just the detox diet making him edgy.

Smash's Skin problems return

Poor Smash was almost healed up from his skin troubles when the lesion returned with a vengeance. We quickly found that the Sprotsman brand of dog food we had recently bought form our local hardware store was the cause of his severe allergies.

It was supposed to be a quality dog food and came highly recommended by the store but it did not sit well with Smash even though he liked the taste. I had just bough a new bag when we made the connection. Instead of throwing it out I set it aside in case it turned out not to be the culprit. I was planning to donate it to someone whose dog could tolerate it.

While Janice was in the hospital, our son unknowingly fed Smash the wrong food. We did not know this for several days and we we puzzled why the skin irritation had returned.

We think the offending ingredient is brewers rice. Even when we went back to the normal brand of dog food his skin did not completely clear up as we had changed
flavors. The one we bought had brown rice on the main label but in the ingredient list it said brewers rice. Of course we did not notice until the skin problems failed to clear up. The normal flavor we buy for him also says brown rice on the label and the ingredient list.

This week I have been making his food from scratch and feeding him very little of his normal commercial food. I have also tried giving him a little aloe in his water to help clear out his tummy.

Hopefully he will be back to normal soon. And we have learned to be very careful when reading the food labels.

Dog Massage

Another thing I have been doing to help smash with his skin problems is to massage the skin. He really likes to be scratched but I have found that giving him a deep and vigorous massage helps to stimulate the blood flow and helps to expel the toxins in the effected areas.

He has always been a big fan of pet-the-puppy so this form of handling is fun for both of us. It has been cold lately so I have had to coax him indoors so I can rub him while we sit together.

He always lets me know he has had enough by getting up and walking off.

To learn more natural ways to treat dog skin problems see this site: Dog Skin Solutions

Dog Skin Poblems

A few weeks ago Smash suddenly developed some dark itchy places on his skin. As the fur started to come out of these spots and he scratched the raw we became increasingly concerned about his health.

We made sure his bedding was clean and gave him oatmeal baths to help soothe his itching. It just kept getting worse.

I realized that it looked as if he had some kind of toxins in his body so I started to look at his possible exposure. We live in the woods and he drags up all sorts of dead rabbits and deer parts form time to time. But these have never phased him in the past even if they do stink up the yard.

I eventually tracked it down to a recent change in his dog food. Due to the sad experience with our last dog we have always fed Smash high quality dog food mixed with table scraps and other meaty supplements.

Recently we had switched to a different brand of dog food because it was slightly cheaper and it advertised omega 3 and glucosomine content.

Unfortunately for Smash I did not research the food enough and it seems that he is in fact having a severe reaction to the new food.

A visit to the vet confirmed that he had some kind of allergic reaction and that it could be food related. He gave him an allergy shot that calmed the itching for a couple of days.

I have switched him back to his original dog food formula and I have been making sure he always has plenty of fresh water in his bowl. Even if he does prefer to drink from puddles.

He is almost finished with the big bag of food and the dark spots are lessoning and his fur is starting to grow back. He still has some itching and some strange body odor but he is doing much better.

To learn more about how dog food can effect your dog's health see this web site: MyBestDogFood There is information there on how to read the dog food labels and other things to watch for to avoid what has happened to Smash and to help heal your dog should you encounter skin conditions like those Smash is having.

Puppy saved from Frozen train track

Read about a cute little puppy who was saved by a railway inspector after the dog became frozen to the tracks.

http://blog.al.com/birmingham-news-stories/2010/01/puppy_rescued_from_train_track.html

Smash The Amazing Dog and Allergies

Smash is an amazing dog and everyone who knows him, including his veterinarian will agree. As a puppy he was shot in the face and hit by a car. As a puppy he almost lost his leg twice, once due to the accident and about a month later when an infection set in. In the last year he has been attacked (possibly by a coyote), attacked by a rabbit (yes a rabbit him and a neighbor dog caught), hip injury from an unknown cause and of course was diagnosed with a food allergy from a dog food.

Smash has been through a lot and so have his joints. A few months ago Smash came up with a hip injury in which he struggled immensely to get up from the ground. Mike started him on the Pet Health OPC, which has had great results with dogs who are dealing with old age, injuries and allergies.

Within a few days it was noticeable that the OPC was helping Smash. He wasn't struggling as much as he was and within a week Smash was up and running again with the neighbor dogs.

Then he was attacked by a rabbit he and a neighbor dog were chasing.

Smash came home with all kinds of scratches and gashes all over his body.

He had also begun to scratch due to allergies with a specific dog food his "dad" had decided to try and Smash had loved. After going to the vet and getting a shot for the allergies, Smash was told he had to switch dog food(which was his previous dog food).

Smash continues to get the Pet Health OPC which keeps him going which is great for a "three legged" dog with a kickstand leg. To learn more about the Pet Health OPC and read more stories and reviews click this link.

Maybe Smash can get a job too!

Here is a story about a dog who greets customers at a convenience store. He has his own uniform and name tag. Smash would not go for the T shirt at all. He might also have a bit of trouble standing on his one hind leg.

http://www.tampabay.com/news/humaninterest/dog-in-a-bp-shirt-greets-customers-at-clearwater-store/1054216

Don't mess with doggies

Very funny dog video:

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1138430581637

Market America Pet Health

Smash and Market America Pet Health

Yesterday we took Smash for a hike near Jacks River in the Cherokee National Forest. Smash has been having a little trouble walking lately, but yesterday in the forest he had a wonderful time. He was able to take a very long hike and when we got back in the truck he was soon fast asleep on the backseat.

To help Smash with his walking we have been giving him the OPC3 formula for dogs and cats. This product is truly amazing. Whenever Smash was not on this vitamin supplement he seemed sluggish and was having a difficult time walking. Since we have him on OPC3 he has gained his pep back and can now out walk us.

This vitamin supplement is available from Market America Pet Health www.free2bme.ws

I recommend that anyone who is looking for a vitamin supplement for their dog or cat to try the OPC3 formula. It comes in powder form and you just sprinkle it on their food. There is no pushing a pill to the back f their throat, and there is no messy liquid to be dispensed by way of a dropper.

It is easy to give and is a great vitamin for your pet. If you do not believe me, then try it out on your pet and I know you will be happy with the results.

www.free2bme.ws

For the Love of a Dog

Many households include at least one dog. Often as you are driving along through town or even on the interstate you may come across a vehicle that includes a dog. Having a dog is part of life for so many people young and old. They are like human children whether you have them or not.

As they get older and become susceptible to ailments or if they are involved in some kind of accident it affects us just as much if not more than a human loved one.

I recently was reminiscing with Mike about how much his dog loves me and how much I love him. Earlier this year I had spent an entire night petting
Smash gently to get him to go to sleep after a nasty run in with something from the woods leaving him injured. For me, I have loved dogs my entire childhood that continued on into adulthood. I even passed that love on to all three of my kids who hope one day to have a dog of their own. In the meantime, they "dogsit" for Mr. Mike.

Smash is in his third human year and has been through quite a bit as a country dog. He has all four legs but only uses three of them. The fourth one we refer to as the "kick stand." Even through everything that has affected Smash's life he has been unconditionally loved by family and friends.

Nearly two weeks ago when I was in for a weekend visit, Smash had somehow gotten injured. It became obvious when he was having a lot of difficulty getting up and when he did he was balancing on his front two legs. This immediately concerned Mike who scooped Smash up and put him inside. Thinking that staying inside would help him recover better than being outside and active as he usually is. After a few days though Smash was still having a time moving around.

So he started giving Smash Pet Health OPC-3, Beef flavored. It is just a powder you mix in with their food. Within just a few days he noticed a remarkable difference in Smash. He was not only able to get up and move around, he was also back to his old self by climbing up the stairs to the deck where he loves to lay and take naps.

Pet Health OPC-3 has done some amazing things for so many pets across the country, especially pets who have been injured and are getting up in age when they usually require assistance from their owners. With Pet Health OPC-3 they have been given that second chance at enjoying a fulfilling dog life enriching the lives of their owners. To find out more about Pet Health OPC-3 and read testimonials from other pet owners click on this link. Just type in Pet Health OPC-3 and you will have all the information you need to help get your dog right back on track just like Smash!

Common Potty Training Problems

Common house training problems
House training is one of the areas of dog ownership that’s most subject to misunderstanding, confusion, and just plain dread!
Today’s newsletter is going to deal with two of the most common problems surrounding the issue of house training:
- Submissive/excited urination
- Scent marking
Common house training problem #1: Submissive / excited urination
What is it?
A ‘submissive urinator’ is a dog that urinates on the floor and himself (and sometimes on you and any guests you may have!) in situations of extreme excitement or stress - like when you return home at the end of the day, or when he’s being told off.
Why does it happen?
Puppies are the usual candidates for submissive/excited urination, but it’s not uncommon to see adult dogs with the problem as well: usually, these are highly sensitive and timid dogs, and/or ones from a shelter/with a history of abuse (often these last two go hand-in-hand.)
When does it happen?
Situations when an excited/fearful dog is likely to urinate:
- Greeting time after a prolonged absence
- Play time
- The arrival of guests
- Stressful situations at home, eg arguments
- During a correction (you’re telling him off)
- Sudden loud noises (thunder, fireworks)
What can I do about it?
Fortunately, it’s not difficult to “cure” your dog of his submissive/excited urination.
First of all, you should take him to the vet to make sure there’s no medical reason for the issue (like diabetes or a bladder infection.)
Next, it’s time to take control of the problem:
- Limit his intake of water to help him control his bladder more effectively. Don’t restrict his water intake over a prolonged period of time, but if you know there’s a situation coming which would normally result in urination – for example, you have guests coming over, or are planning on a play session soon – take his water bowl away for a period of time (maybe half an hour to an hour) before the event.
- When greeting your dog, keep it calm and mellow. The more excited he is, the harder it is for him to control his bladder, so don’t encourage him to get worked up: ignore him for the first few moments, or give him a neutral “hello”, a quick pat, and then go about making yourself at home.
- It’s important that you DO NOT punish or harshly correct your dog for this behavior. It’s not something that he can easily control, and he’s certainly not doing it on purpose. When you catch him in the act, you can interrupt him (a firm “No!” followed by praise when he stops should suffice) but don’t punish him. Keep your cool, and try to be sympathetic: he doesn’t mean to do it, after all!
- If he urinates out of fear (submissiveness) when scolding him for another offense, try to take the stress levels down a notch by keeping a firm, authoritative, but not angry tone. Remember, you’re dealing with a sensitive, highly-strung dog: if you get angry or worry him further, the problem will worsen.
Comon house training problem #2: Scent marking
Scent marking - where a dog “marks” his or her territory with urine – is technically not actually a house training problem, since it’s based on issues of dominance and territoriality rather than insufficient house training (a dog can be perfectly house trained but still mark inside the house.)
However, because – since the problem centers around the unwanted presence of urine in the house – it seems logical, in a way, to link this problem with house training: and since this is one of the most widespread problems among dog owners, we thought it worthwhile to include some practical advice.
Scent marking and lack of house training: how to differentiate between the two
Your dog’s probably scent marking, rather than genuinely relieving himself, if:
- The amount of urine produced is relatively small, and tends to be directed against vertical surfaces (walls, doors, etc)
- He’s male, unneutered, and at least five or six months old. Unneutered dogs are much more territorial than neutered ones –if you have an unneutered dog in the house, you can pretty much expect a certain amount of scent marking. (Unspayed females also mark, but it’s less common; spayed and neutered dogs can also exhibit marking behavior, but it’s relatively infrequent)
- It makes little difference how often he’s taken outside for a toilet break
- He frequently targets items that are new to the house: new possessions, guest clothing/footwear, etc
- You live in a multi-dog household and there is conflict between two or more of the dogs
- There are other, unneutered or unspayed pets in the house
What to do about the problem?
First things first: spay or neuter your dog(s) as soon as you possibly can. If you can do this early enough – ideally, at six months of age - this often halts marking altogether; but if your dog’s been marking for a prolonged period of time, he or she may continue to do so after being spayed or neutered, since a pattern of behavior will have been established.
Clean soiled areas thoroughly. Use a non-ammonia based cleaner (because it smells just like pee) and stay away from vinegar too (it smells similar to pee.) Oxi-Clean mixed with warm water is particularly effective; there are also plenty of commercial cleaners designed specifically to lift pet stains and odors, which you can buy from pet stores and some supermarkets.
Because dogs tend to re-mark the same places, you’ll need to redefine the places that you know he’s marked to prevent repeat offending.
You can do this in a number of ways:
- Feed him next to or on top of the spot
- Play with him there
- Groom him there
- Put his bed over or next to it
- Spend time there yourself: hang out with a book or sit down and work
If there is rivalry between dogs in the household, you’ll need to take steps to resolve it. Any conflict is likely to be hierarchical in nature (a “power struggle”), which means that all you have to do to stop the tension is pay attention to which dog seems to be more dominant than the other one (which one eats first, gets the toys he/she wants, “stares down” another dog), and reinforce this position.
How to do this: feed the dominant dog first. Pet him/her first. Give him/her a toy before anyone else gets one. This makes it clear to all dogs in the house which one really is the dominant dog – and when this hierarchy’s been recognizably established, territorial/dominant behaviors like scent marking often vanish overnight.
For more information on how to successfully house train your dog (as well as a whole bunch of in-depth information on house training troubleshooting and related issues) you’ll probably want to check out The Ultimate House Training Guide.
It’s the complete dog-house-training guide. The Ultimate House Training Guide and comes highly recommended.
You can visit the The Ultimate House Training Guide site by clicking this link: http://tinyurl.com/mqjf47

dog potty training

Smash has always been an outdoor dog so he never really had to learn potty training. He has always been the dog who never wanted to mess up his yard or the trail. He would always find a place off the trail or out of his play space to poop.

It has been annoying that some of the neighbor dogs that he likes to play with don't have such nice manners. They will poop right in the drive way or on the trail right in the path! I guess as long as they are not in their yard they think it is OK.

Dogs do have a natural instinct to keep their living areas clean. You can use this instinct when potty training your dog. Make sure the area you want them to use for a potty is away from their food and sleeping areas.

Smash is really funny when he is hiking on a leash because he acts shy about finding a place to potty. I think he is really just showing his instinct to keep the trail clean because he likes to get off the trail and behind a tree or better yet under a bush or log. This behavior gets a little awkward when on the leash as he can really get me tangled up.

To learn more about potty training a dog see this resource on Housetraining: http://tinyurl.com/mqjf47

If you happen to have a baby human that you are potty training, then you can learn all you need to know at this site: www.pottytrainingsite.com

The brown fox and the lazy dog

Walkin g a a leash in the park

While Smash spends most of his time running free on our farm; occasionally, I like to take him for walks on trails and take him hiking with me. These trips require him to walk on a leash. Walking on a leash does not come natural to dogs who normally run free. However, by using the tricks in the course I got from Kingdom of Pets, Smash has learned to enjoy his time on the leash. When I bring out the leash now, he does not run away, rather he runs to the Jeep.

Teach your dog to walk on a leash and enjoy spending more time with him. Click here to learn more.

Help find a home for this dog!

Cancer patient needs to find a new home for her beloved dog. Help if you can.

http://dogblog.dogster.com/2009/06/11/beloved-pet-of-cancer-patient-needs-home/

First dog Bo attacks windscreen

Smash is pretty sure he would make a much better first dog than Bo.  Just as long as he got to take his walk by the creek each morning.

Check out this video of Bo going after the wind sceen on a reporters camera.

http://www.yahoo.com/s/1080757

Comfort Dogs

Smash would love to have a job like this.  Maybe I should bring him up here to the Cleveland State Community College campus and see if he can offer some comfort.

The University of Wisconsin campus is providing dogs for for students to pet to help them reduce the stress of taking final exams.

Sounds like a great idea.

Click here to read the story.

Tick removal

Smash has been collecting ticks like crazy this spring.  He normally scratches them of himself, but on his right side he has trouble controlling his hind leg so it makes it difficult to get the ones around his collar and ears. 

I have been plucking them off by hand.  However, I can't always get the head out.  This leaves and itchy bump under his skin for a while.

I have just ordered this device. The Trix Tick remover.    It has a lasso that goes around the neck of the tick and is supposed to allow the tick to be removed including the head.  I hope Smash likes it.  I will post again when I try it out.

Smash and the trip to North Carolina

Last weekend I decided to take Smash for a ride and find a park to walk him. Unfortunately the weather became rainy so he and I just took a long ride. Being that we live in Southeast Tennessee we're not too far from Alabama, Georgia or North Carolina. I wanted to go up in the mountains so Smash and I headed towards North Carolina.

It was a very peaceful drive with the sun peeping out of the clouds every so often. Smash was hanging out in the front passenger seat for the longest time. It was obvious though that he was missing my kids. Smash would turn and look at the back seat wondering where my two boys Caleb and Hunter were. Soon after, Smash decided to lay his head down on the center console on top of my jacket. He looked quite sad his buddies as well as snack givers were not with us.

Smash and I stopped in Murphy, North Carolina to have lunch. Of course, I had to share my sandwich with him. With his excessive drooling I just had to give him a few morsels. He got a drink and so did I. In fact, I was hoping with his drink I wouldn't have to hold it for him this time. After a little coaxing I managed to get Smash to drink from his cup which he ended up splashing water all over the place including on my cell phone.

On our way back home Smash decided it was time to take a nap. He headed to the back seat to lay down. Every once in a while he would sit up to look around. I noticed when he was sitting up though he was sitting on my college textbooks and my laptop. Guess he was keeping them warm or perhaps protecting them.

Goodbye to Zelda

Goodbye to Zelda

I have never really been a cat person. In fact when I was younger I was allergic to cat and would break out in red whelps whenever I was exposed to cat hair.

I am much more of a dog guy. I love my big lovable mutt Smash. We love to romp in the woods together and enjoy the outdoors.

This cat however, won me over with her unconditional love. She would always rub against me every time I was in range. She would walk a figure eight between my legs. I was always tripping over her in the mornings as she refused to get out from under my feet.

At night her favorite place to sleep was on top of me. If I lay on my side she would be on my hip. If I had an itch under the covers, she would pounce on my hand. She had a very loud and soothing purr that would always boost my mood as she lay beside or on top of me in the bed.

She was a little gray cat that my son rescued from the animal shelter. She had been with us less than a year. I did not realize how much I had grown attached to her until this weekend when my son found her dead in the yard. Apparently she had been killed by a dog bite.

I try to think of the happy times when I would pick her up and cuddle her and tell her that she does not even notice that I don’t like cats. She never did notice. She just cuddled and purred to me.

I had never known a cat to purr so loudly or so often. Her purr would vibrate the whole bed when she lay beside me. She was such a sweet and loving animal. 

I am trying to make sense of her death by looking at things metaphysically. I do remember one day recently thinking that if she never purred like that to me again I would feel really sad. That was an accurate prediction. I am very sad that I will never feel her purr for me again.

I know that her death means there is some part of me that has died or that I think needs to die. I am looking for that part.

For now I am going to try to think about what she taught me about love. She loved me and showed me affection even thought I did not like cats. She won me over with her love and purring. I never even minded that she would nip at my legs in the morning after I got out of the shower. She was a very loving little spirit. I guess her job here was done. But I miss her.

Marley and Me

If you haven't watched the movie Marley and Me yet, I only recommend it if you have a strong enough heart. It is a good movie though if you love dogs, you will probably go and hug them after the movie. Perhaps even letting them lick your tears away.

A few nights ago, I was invited to my best friends house to watch Marley and Me. I didn't realize at the time that the movie was actually based on a true story. It had many comical scenes like the dog swallowing the necklance the character Owen Wilson gives to Jennifer Annistons character. Or the dog sitter who flipped out once they got home from their vacation (honeymoon gift) to Ireland.

Over half way through the movie, Smash's human dad, Mike, was very teary eyed. It started at about the scene where Marely was sitting by the road waiting for the kids to come home dropped off by the school bus. From then on his eyes were never dry. Soon afterwards mine stayed teary as well.

Of course the end is a sad one though deep inside I knew the dog had a great life.

After the movie ended, Mike got up went outside and spent some time with his dog Smash. Then again Smash didn't have a clue why his dad was crying and hugging him at all.

If you decide to watch it, make sure you have a full box of kleenex right beside you. It's a good movie to watch and it is also a sad one.

Smash takes a ride to McDonald's and town

Smash is a really great dog even if he is mixed. My kids love him almost as much as I do. We sometimes "borrow" him for awhile. The kids enjoy taking him for a ride. In fact, just about everytime I go out to his house he automatically walks to the passenger side door as if he is saying I am ready to go for a ride!

This past weekend my two boys and I had the opportunity to take Smash for a ride after some errands. Since the boys were hungry we decided to drive back into town and go to McDonald's. While waiting in line Smash looked as if he was about to go to sleep. It had been a very rainy day so it was understandable. 

As we approached the drive thru Smash apparently caught whiff of the aroma from the restaurant completely waking up. Of course the boys soon could not resist giving Smash a snack or two consisting of one chicken nugget and a few french fries. I also soon gave in giving the remaining bread from my double cheeseburger to him. At one time Smash had turned around towards the boys with drool dripping from his chops. My oldest son Caleb proceeded to ask me why Smash was doing that? I explained it is because he is hungry and loves the smell of our food. It is his way of asking for some.

The funniest part had to be when I stopped to get gas. Smash did not like it at all when I got out so when I attempted to get back in he was sitting in my seat. Needless to say it was a task to get him out of my seat and into the passenger side. Instead of sitting as he usually does, he chose to turn around facing the boys in the back seat. Of course with them finishing up their fries, Smash had the chance to sniff the both of them. They pleaded with me to make Smash turn around. As he was attempting to, he sat on my sweet tea nearly squishing the cup in the cup holder in half. I quickly rescued my drink!

Eventually Smash was tired and turned around plopping his head down on the console on top of my arm. And soon we were back to his house where he quickly ran over to his bed.

Recall Training Needed!

Run Away Dog!

This weekend we took Smash for a hike at the Walls Of Jericho State Park in Alabama.  This is a seven mile round trip hike with over 1,000 feet elevation change.

Smash did great on his leash the whole trip.  He loved meeting the other people along the way and got lots of attention.  Many people did not even notice his leg until they looked closer.  Some people thought he had hurt it along the trail because they did not notice it the first time they saw him.

He behaved very well with the other dogs along the trail as well.  There was even one unfriendly dog and Smash walked calmly by with just a little snub.

When we got back to the Jeep, we were all very tired.  I helped Smash up into the back of the Jeep while I changed shoes.  He curled up behind me so Janice took his leash off.

While I was massaging my feet, I felt him move and jump down.  I expected him to wander around the Jeep while we got ready to go.  Instead he went slinking across the parking lot.

I was a bit concerned because there was a very busy highway across the parking lot. I whistled for him to return, but he ignored me.  I assumed he need to go potty.

I quickly put on my shoes and called for him more.  He just kept going. He headed for the woods by the road.  We all ran across the parking lot to try to herd him in.

He then turned and headed back down the mountain toward the river.  Janice ran after him.

Jennifer and I circled around to try to find them as they went out of sight.

Jennifer and I met up of the trail about a quarter mile from the parking area and started asking other hikers if they had seen our dog or Janice.  Most said they had seen both, but not together.

I kept visualizing having Smash sitting by my side and me petting him.  Suddenly Jennifer spotted him in the woods.  I quickly sat down and whistled for him.  Jennifer sat down as well.  As soon as he saw us he ran to Jennifer who quickly leashed him up.  We sat and petted him for a while and told him he was a good dog for coming to us.

Then we started looking for Janice.  We got concerned when the string of returning hikers stopped reporting seeing her.  One of the hikers offered to help us look for her.

He eventually found her coming back up the trail and let her know we had the dog.

My next training with Smash will be the instant recall.  This story has a happy ending but it could have been bad if he had gone on toward the road.

I am reminded how important dog training is to the safety of the dog and the trainer.  Being in the woods looking for him after dark would not have been safe in those surroundings.

Smash's Facebook page

Smash has a new Facebook Fan page. If you are on Facebook, sign up to be a fan of Smash. There are lots of cute puppy pictures there.

Be a fan of Smash on Facebook

Eating Out

We have been eating out a lot lately with several business meeting and other outings. I always try to bring something home for Smash.

He loves the French fries from Five Guys Burgers. His favorite is the rib bones from Sticky Fingers. He is also a fan of the little burgers and chicken fingers from O Charley's.

He always starts wagging his tail when he sees a Styrofoam box come out of the Jeep when we get home.

Cold

Smash seems to like the cold. He started coming in the house at night last week when it was raining. I thought surely he would enjoy sleeping inside last night as it got down to 10 degrees outside.

I brought him in early but about the time we were going to bed he wanted out. He barked an hour or so later so I coaxed him back in. He only stayed a few minutes before he wanted out again.

We repeated the cycle a few times before I finally just let him stay outside. He seemed to enjoy running around in the yard.

This morning I found he had moved his bed out away from the wall and out onto the sidewalk. He looked quite comfortable curled up there.

He was eager to go for a walk this morning so I bundled up and followed him to the creek. He tested the ice and sniffed a round a bit before we headed back to the house.
He seems quite happy with the cold weather.

Strange Dog Behavior

Ever Since Smash had his last injury he has been acting strange. At least different for him. He has always been aloof in some ways. He prefers to run free in the woods behind the house and come home for meals. He enjoys sleeping on the front porch and likes to be petted but he soon gets enough petting and moves out to the yard.

Since his latest trip tot he vet he has actually wanted to come inside. Last night he came in to eat supper and we fell asleep on the kitchen floor together. He woke up later and instead of wanting to go outside he wanted to sleep in the garage.

Yesterday afternoon when I had to drive back into town, he insisted on getting in the truck with me to go for a ride. This is very unusual for him. He seems to want a lot of human company right now. I think something must have scared him pretty bad.

Smash's Recovery

Smash seems to have recovered very quickly from his injuries. Probably because of the attention he got from his dog sitter Jennifer.

He has wanted a lot more attention than usual these days. Generally he is rather aloof having important dog business to take care of in the wood behind the house. But this weekend he was wanted to stay close to us people. He even wanted to ride with us. Jennifer was moving some of her stuff form one storage facility to another and he tagged along with her. Last night when I was helping her move some stuff, I put him up in the building to sniff around. When he had checked it out, I was ready to help him down when he ran over and jumped into Jennifer's arms. She was quite shocked to have the 60 lb dog pounce her like that but she caught him just fine.

He has been running the hills behind the house with his friend the neighbor dog just fine. I still have not seen what he may have tangled with. I am mostly just thankful he is healing quickly. He has even been using his peg leg a bit more.

Another trip to the vet

Smash made another emergency trip to the vet yesterday. Janice found him covered in blood and hiding when she got home. Jennifer helped get him to the vet just before closing time.

I met them there and helped examine him. He was covered in blood but only had two small cuts on his legs. I think the blood may have been form whatever he tangled with.

He is really sore however. I made him sleep inside and Jenifer stayed with him. He was much perkier this morning and we went for along walk.

His front leg is still a bit sore but he seems OK.

Puppies save three-year-old boy lost in freezing Virginia woods

Puppies save three-year-old boy lost in freezing Virginia woodsBY JANE H. FURSE DAILY NEWS WRITER
Fat dog survives freezing to sidewalkA toddler lost in the Virginia woods was back home safe Sunday thanks to two puppies who kept him warm through a harrowing night of freezing temperatures.

Read More..

Smash and the thunderstorm

It was a little over a year ago that Smash's behavior changed when it comes to thunderstorms. During the summer of 2007, Smash and his "skin" dad were hanging out in his dad's shop/barn. Smash sensed something going on with the weather and immediately got up and headed outside. It wasn't just a few seconds later that his dad noticed things being knocked off the walls and shelves. He then felt the hairs on the back of his neck sticking up and then BAM! All within a matter of seconds lightning had struck the barn and traveled from the underground cables to the house and frying a computer, modem, theater sound sytem and other things.

From then on though, Smash became extremely skirmish when thunderstorms approached. Even his dad got somewhat like Smash.

A few weeks ago I got to spend the night out at Smash's family home. Out of what I call the "blue" a storm approached. As I was heading to my room for the night I noticed Smash hanging out at the back door. It was already raining and he looked quite sad and soaked. Well, I got my stuff put up in the room and started calling Smash into the room. He hesitated just a little bit but then I nudged him. Suprisingly he came in, sat down and let me pet him. I gently stroked his head and then his back. He gradually calmed down and fell asleep.

I sat down next to him for awhile as I was working on completing a test for one of my college classes. I continued stroking him which I realized that it was helping me relax.

Before I knew it I was asleep then woke up about 5 A.M. I realized Smash hadn't woke up to want to go out to potty. I fell back to sleep for a little bit then got woke up enough to text Mike, Smash's dad to let him know that in case he was looking for his dog to take him for a walk, that he was in the room with me.

Eventually Mike came down and got his dog. He just smiled and pet Smash then let him out.

Amazing inspirational puppy dog stories

Smash is one my all time most favorite dogs. He is a very amazing dog with lots of stories.

Several weeks ago I had my mom, niece and nephew come out to Smash's house to enjoy the beautiful fall scenery and walk down to the creek. Smash was running around being playful with his neighbor friend Shep dog when mom arrived. It was not until an hour or so later that she realized Smash's back leg didn't work like the rest of them. She was amazed because Smash didn't ever skip a beat when it came to running around.

The last few times I was out at Smash's house that he was being so protective of me as if I was now his official best human friend. He didn't like Shep dog to get near me. He loves it though when I give him lots and lots of attention giving him "pet-the-puppy." Majority of the time when I am getting ready to leave one of the last things I do is kneel down to pet Smash and give him a great big hug.

Last week I was getting ready to go out of town so I went by the house to do a few things along with my toddler son, Hunter who is 3. Smash was very excited to see us. He was sitting directly in front of the door on the mat wagging his tail so excitedly. In fact, he wagged his tail so hard it sounded like someone was knocking on the door!

Smash of course got up when he seen me get Hunter out of the Jeep. Smash loves Hunter very much as does Hunter.

He is quite the inspirational dog because he is so loving, gentle and stays with you whenever you are sick or sad. Smash has so much character that he melts your heart. He has proven that it doesn't matter if you lose a little use of a body part you are still who you are. He forgets many times his back leg is pretty much just a kick stand. He out does most of the dogs in the neighborhood. The neighbors are amazed at Smash's determination as a dog. We know he is one dog who enjoys life to the fullest.

But one of the things his "skin father" has done is give him Pet Health OPC-3 from Market America. It contains glucosamine as well. Smash is much more energetic and healthy since he has been on it. This is just a powder you mix in with dog food that is beef flavored. If you have cats they also have it for them as well. There are many testimonials located on my web portal which if you click on the title of this story it will take you there and just go to the pet section.

I just spoke with a client earlier today who just found out about the Pet Health OPC-3. He realized the price was much lower than what the vet charges him for just the glucosamine.

If you would like to try the Pet Health OPC-3 for your dog or cat visit my web portal: http://www.marketamerica.com/journeytofreedom . You may also directly email me: jennifer@empowering-solutions.net with any questions you may have.

As an added bonus if you try the Pet Health OPC-3 and have exciting results contact me at the email above to receive a special offer as well as having your testimonial published!

Dog-sitting for Smash

For the last three years I have been dog sitting off and on for Smash as well as the felines of the family. Smash enjoys having me out at the house because he knows that most likely, Jennifer is going to take him for a ride into town.

As a treat I sometimes will go to Sonic and get a fresh fruit slush for me and a water for Smash. By the time we get home, I am done with my drink and give the rest to Smash. He loves this.

For a few days this week I am once again getting to dog sit (and kitty sit). Smash is happy I am with him. Today we went for a ride into town since I had to do some errands. Smash kept wanting to be with me cheek to cheek. If not that, Smash wanted to drool all over me. I did stop at Sonic. Many dogs don't mind getting a nice cup of water and drinking it wherever it is located. Not Smash.

Smash prefers we pick the cup up and hold it so he doesn't have to bend his head over. Talk about a spoiled dog! As I am hand watering Smash he is splashing cold ice water all over my arm along with his drool. I know he was enjoying this entirely.

When we arrived back home, I almost forgot to get him out of the Jeep before I put it back in the garage. So I was getting cups shuffled around and other stuff settled when Smash inadvertently poked a hole in my cup of water with his claw. A gush of very, very cold ice water ended up on me. I quickly tossed it out of the Jeep then got Smash out.

The longest time I have had to dog sit Smash was for a week. In March, his "skin" brother, Will along with their parents Janice and Mike went to Ireland as part of Will's high school band having the opportunity to perform in the St.Patrick's Day parade in Dublin, Ireland.

Smash and I had a blast. At least for the most part. I did give him a bath the day they were coming home in hopes he would be around when I had to go and pick them up from the school. About an hour before we were to leave, Smash disappeared and I was disappointed. Once we arrived back home, Smash didn't show up for probably about 15 minutes or so. I think he was highly upset his family had left. He had felt they had abandon him.

Other than that, Smash and I are buddies for life.

Off-Roading with Smash

Smash and the Jeeps

We had lots of fun this weekend with our dog Smash. He is a wonderful dog and we love him very much. He gives us so much unconditional love and he enjoys life to the fullest.

This weekend we spent time at home and during that time we took our dog on a trip around the property in Scuffy II my husband's off-roading Jeep. I was sitting in the back of the Jeep and our friend Jennifer rode in the front while my husband Mike drove. Smash rode in the back with me and laid in the floor so he could see out after the doors were removed. He also could see his friend Shep Dog running beside us. I don't know if he wanted Shep Dog to ride, but I think he rather enjoyed the attention he got.

Smash loves to ride and when he heard Scuffy II crank up he was ready to go. The only time I was a little freaked was when we went to drop off the bank into the creek. I couldn't see out the front and I thought Mike was dropping into a different spot off the bank from where I was accustomed. I had to close my eyes and when we dropped into the creek I realized we were in a different place than I had thought and I was no longer freaked. Mike and Jennifer laughed and Smash gave me the look of what is your problem mom.

Later we took Jennifer's Jeep around the property and Smash got to ride again. Jennifer's Jeep is a street and off-roading Jeep. While Smash rode in her Jeep he kept sniffing out food from when her kids had been in the Jeep. He found hash round potatoes to be quiet tasty.

We all had fun! Smash you are one great big lovable friend!

How to stop a dog from jumping on you

Many dogs feel the need to express their happiness to see you by jumping up on you with front paws extended. They usually do this after running through mud when yo are dressed for church or an important business meeting and running late.

It is important that you curb this behavior early in a dog's training but you can also use this technique to stop even a strange dog form jumping on you.

Remember that when a dog jumps on you he is usually just expressing his love for you. You really just want to let him know that this is an inappropriate way to express himself without causing him to think you don't love him.

The best method I have found is a swift knee to the chest as the dog lunges forward. If necessary to get the message across, you can hit him hard enough to knock his breath out without causing any injury to your dog. As you dog jumps up, just quickly raise your knee so that it impact the center of his chest as he tries to jump. It may take a couple of times for him to get the idea but if you increase the force each time he will learn very soon.

Once you have knocked him back or down, quickly pet him and love on him to show him the appropriate way to get attention.

Dogs love to give and receive affection. So be sure to teach them the appropriate ways to get lots pet the puppy.

Dog bites

Previously I mentioned I was going to discuss dog biting. Dog bites are serious and every year children and adults are sent to the hospital and in some cases die.

Personally, I can tell you that when your dog bites you are in for an interesting ride.

In 1998 I became a mom for the first time. My then husband, had been given a miniature dacshund he named Opie two years previously. He was a very spoiled weiner dog whom we took just about everywhere. I had even taken it upon myself to buy him lots of toys and clothes as if he were a child. On the outside he looked like the most adorable, sweetest weiner dog.

But when it came to strangers, especially kids, Opie would snap and at times become agressive.

I determined that this was due to the neighbor children who were in their pre-teen years teasing him. I had even found a beebee hole in my mother in laws bedroom window where they had apparently attempted to shoot at him one time when he was on the back deck.

Opie was not aggressive all of the time though so we just brushed it off and did our best to be as cautious as possible.

In June 1998 when my daughter was slightly over 3 months old, our lives would change forever.

I was sitting in the recliner nursing my daughter while talking to a friend (former co-worker). She and her son were staying with us temporarily. It seemed like it happened so fast but it began strangely.

Opie was being friendly to Bryson who was only three at the time. The next thing I knew Bryson was screaming and there was blood all over the kitchen floor.

There were bites all over Bryson's left side of his face. All I could do was scream for my then husband to come downstairs. Apparently from what we all figured, Bryson had tried to pick Opie up. Instead, Opie bit Bryson's left eye brow leaving a nasty gash. When Bryson attempted to put him down, Opie bit him at least twice on his left cheek.

After that, David could not even catch Opie. He was completely under the couch obviously realizing he had done something wrong. David was ready to kill Opie right then. He wanted nothing to do with a dog that would bite someone, especially a child. Since we had a small child, David wanted Opie gone.

In the meantime, David took our friend Donna and her son Bryson to the emergency room. I grabbed the vaccination papers on Opie assuming they would want to know if his rabies shot was up to date. This would keep Bryson from having to have the painful shots.

From what Donna and David explained, the had to place Bryson in a papoose like jacket while stitching him up. Child Protective services was called in to investigate and David gave them the paperwork on Opie.

Bryson had to have 27 Stitches.

In the meantime, I was still at home so very emotional. I felt very bad for Bryson and Donna. As I cleaned up Bryson's blood I got more emotional. I loved dogs so much, but Opie could no longer be a part of our household.

David actually wanted to take Opie out into the woods borrowing his dads gun and ending the problem right then. But after I finally got in touch with his dad and step mom they immediately came up to get Opie. They had a home for him on a farm.

But about two years later Opie had to be put down. No one really knows what was going on with him other than he had a serious disease that caused him to be extremely aggressive. He had killed a puppy and an adult dog. When he died all of his belongings had to be destroyed.

David and I took full responsibility for what Opie had done to Bryson. In all we had a total of $800 worth of medical bills to pay. However, we consulted with a local attorney who explained that even though we paid the medical bills, bought medications, etc. we would be liable for any plastic surgery if any that Bryson had if he wanted to all the way up until he is 18 years old.


Emotional scars are left on both the dog bite victim, their family, and the dogs owner's family. There are medical bills and medications to pay as well as the long road of liability. Having to part with a dog you loved very much is difficult too.

It doesn't matter what breed it is in, you cannot trust any dog at all. If you have an aggressive dog, please find an animal trainer or someone who is trained to handle dogs such as that.

If you are in a neighborhood that has dogs roaming and particularly hanging out in your yard be aware that you can be potentially liable if a dog bites someone in your yard. Don't assume that homeowners insurance will take care of it. Speak to the dogs owner if you know who it is. If not or if they refuse to take personal accountability with their dog(s), as cruel as it may sound, call the animal shelter. Dogs who have bitten or are known to bite can be banned from dog kennels including those at a veterinarians office, just because of liability.

I know because I had attempted to find a temporary place for Opie until a home could be found.

No one wants their child, friends, or family to be attacked by a dog. Take action against a dog known to bite before a situation like what I went through happens.

Smash and his puppy dog friends

Smash is really a great dog. He has attracted two neighbor friends my kids affectionately call T-Bone & Shep Dog. If anyone has ever watched Clifford the Big Red Dog, this group of puppy dogs will remind you of the friendships Clifford had with T-Bone & Cleo.

Although in this case T-Bone is actually T-Bonette. T-Bonette is an okay dog. Actually, she is still a pup. I have left my kids bicycles and one of my outdoor chairs over at Smash's house while I am in between homes. T-Bonette took it upon herself to chew off my daughter's bicycle seat one day. My chair's mesh cup holder was found in the middle of the driveway just a day after we used it at our church picnic. Still though, T-Bonette can be a very sweet dog. My son Hunter says that all the time.

Then there is Shep dog. I have never seen him chew anything up but he is VERY jealous of the attention Smash gets. If anyone is showing affection at all to Smash, Shep dog attempts to intervene. I would say the worst part about Shep dog is he has a horrible habit of biting. Anytime we give Smash a treat we have to make sure Shep dog is not around. If he is he attempts to swoop in and get some. Of course, Smash typically takes care of that. I have had too on a few occasions swat Shep dog away. My daughter was giving Smash a snack one day out on the front porch. Shep dog intervened and bit Shiloh's hand. Needless to say I was not a happy camper. I do not agree with dogs biting (which is what I am going to discuss next)

Both of Smash's dog friends belong to neighbors who do not properly care for them. Because of their love for dog and other animals, the Strawbridges off and on care for the dogs. Particularly because Smash enjoys their company.

You're a good dog, Smash!

Smash is a great dog. On the outside he looks like any other dog. But on the inside he is a very loving, sweet, tug-at-your-heart dog. He is a protective, loyal, nanny dog.

My youngest child Hunter, loves to visit with Smash. Hunter will go up to Smash and give him as big a hug as he can. And Smash stays right there. Sometimes Hunter will point or pull at his ears. Smash doesn't do a thing. He will stand in place perhaps because he loves the attention and to be petted.

Probably my most memorable time for me had to have been a few months ago in the middle of the summer. The kids and I were over to work on a project. We were all outside in front of the house talking when "boom!" I disappeared from sight. Well, at least the sight of two other adults. All I remember seeing was a flash of Smash running past me and I heading towards the ground. I just laid there for a moment. Mike came over to my rescue to dust me off.

Smash was playing around with "Shep" dog when apparently they ran towards me knocking me to the ground. I am pretty sure Smash felt bad because the rest of the time I was there I couldn't find him. Just before I was getting ready to leave, I did spot Smash. When he seen me he did try to run. I caught up with Smash to give him a great big hug. I talked to Smash to let him know I didn't blame me falling to the ground on him. After I gave the hug Smash seemed to be fine again. As I was leaving I yelled out the window You're a good dog, Smash!

Yawn - Sleepy dog or is he feeling what your feeling?

I have always noticed that Smash mirrors my emotions. He often expresses emotions I did not even know I had until I paid attention to him.

Now scientist have confirmed that dogs do in fact feel empathy as dogs find human yawns contagious, read more here.

To find out what your yawns and other signals from your body mean about your emotional state, see Natural-healing-coach.com

I double dog dare you.....

Smash's buddies have been getting him in trouble lately. for weeks he has carefully watched the guineas grow. While I have wondered if he was being guard dog or just thinking of a tasty treat, he has recently taken to breaking down the pen.

We have lost two birds so far. It seems he does not bother the birds unless his other dog friends are around. I guess he is succumbing to peer pressure. I imagine the other dogs are saying things like: I would not let those birds eat all my food if I were you. Or Hey why don't you run and bark at those birds. Your people will be so proud that you herded them all up!

Either way he is having to be tied up again. This is his worst punishment. He loves to run and hates being tied up. But he will have to stay that way now until the birds are big enough to fend for themselves.

He just needs to realize that the birds are there for him. I got them to eat ticks.

Keeping Your Dog Healthy During Summer

Summertime and Dogs

Summer time is the time when many get outdoors and have wonderful adventures with their dogs. It's a great time to have lots of fun and you want to take special care of your dog during the hot days of summer.

Since you and your dog are outdoors more I am sure you are making sure your dog is being kept tick and flea free by giving him a bath. If you have a dog that is especially sensitive to shampoos and you don't want to dry his skin out then you need a products to help protect your dog.

I have been reading up on many different products and have found very few that do not contain chemicals. However I have found one company that sells products that are environmentally safe for your pet.

One product is the Pad and Paw balm that can be used to help prevent your dogs pads from drying out and cracking. Another product is the hypoallergenic shampoos that can help to condition and moisturize your dogs skin.

One other product I recommend is the OPC 3 vitamins for dogs. I have my dog Smash on this and he has had no problems with allergies since the pollen season began.

Check out these products for your dog at www.free2bme.ws You can find these products under the featured brand PetHealth.

Have a fun summer with your dog and go on many adventures!