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!

Smash and the birthday cupcake

On Monday, July 14th my youngest son, Hunter turned 3. Since he had been at his dads the week before, his step mom took cupcakes to daycare for his class.

When I picked him up that afternoon, there was one cupcake left. Hunter wanted to take it home to eat later.

We ended up going to Smash's house to have pizza and celebrate Hunter's birthday.

I decided to go ahead and let Hunter have his cupcake since it was his birthday. After a few bites, Hunter didn't want anymore. So I started to finish it.

Hunter wanted a sucker so we gave him one which he quickly decided he didn't want anymore. With the cupcake in one hand and the sucker in another I just sat there and didn't know what to do.

Smash did.

His tongue quickly snatched the birthday cupcake, paper and all out of my hand.

My jaw hit the ground while his owner began laughing hysterically.

Smash walked away with frosting on his nose and fur while I had an empty hand.

Later on it looked like Smash was having a tummy ache although earlier he was enjoying the cupcake.

Because I didn't get to finish the cupcake, I ended up getting an ice cream cone later.

Amazing Dogs

Yesterday I talked about Smash and how special he is to me and my family. Today I read an article that really touched me and I hope it will touch you.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/07/16/heroes.shirk/index.html

Dogs are amazing creatures.

Tails and Company

Tails and Company has just launched a new line of pet supplies and accessories for dogs.

There are lots of choices in custom leashes, collars and other pet health and safety supplies.

They have bowls and other feeders, carriers, toys beds and even some home decor products for dog lovers.

Check out Tails and Company by clicking here.

The "Nanny Dog"

It's been awhile since I have become attached to a dog. I met Smash two years ago. Six months later he was hit by a car. I remember Mike calling me asking if I would pray for Smash. I could tell he was really upset about his dog and I not only prayed for Smash but I prayed for Mike as well.

I know what it is like to lose a dog. Dogs are like family, in my opinion. We care for them just as we do the rest of our family. Sometimes we even let them live in the house with us.

But Smash is more than just a dog. He has come to be a part of my family too. My three kids love Smash very much. Shiloh, my oldest, loves dogs. She loves Smash as if he was her own dog. Before the end of the school year, her school had pet day. Mike was gracious enough to share Smash so Shiloh could have a pet to bring. Smash enjoyed going to the school with all the children petting him.

My son Caleb for one reason or another went through a period of fear of dogs. With the help of Smash though, Caleb has befriended him. Caleb was very frightened and Smash knew it and in his own little way gradually nudged his way into Caleb's life. Now Caleb and Smash are buddies.

And with my youngest son Hunter who also loves dogs, Smash has become the official "Nanny Dog." Anytime we are out at his home, Smash stays near Hunter or any of my children for that matter. If any of the kids are crying Smash investigates and does his best to cheer them up. We love walking down to the creek so Smash happily comes along and watches over the kids.

One of the neighbor dogs we have nick named Shep dog (Since he is a German Shephard) is just a puppy. So sometimes Shep dog gets carried away. Smash will come between the kids and Shep dog as if he is protecting them. Earlier this year, I was house sitting and taking care of Smash. I took Hunter to the creek along with Smash and Shep dog trailing along. As we were heading back to the house with Hunter following me, Shep dog pounced him. As upset as I was, Smash showed how much more upset he was than me. He tore into Shep dog pushing him on a hill pinning him to the ground and growling at him.

Smash is a very special dog to myself and my kids. We enjoy taking him for rides and to the park for walks which he does quite well. One of the things the Nanny Dog also likes to do is "inspect" the kids when they get into the vehicle. My kids giggle and laugh about it since Smash is tickling them while sniffing.

Kids tend to be rough with dogs. One of the things I keep an eye out for is temperament. I have had an aggressive dog in the past so I am very cautious. With Smash, he has a great temperament with kids. I have seen his ears pulled, eye poked, nose poked or pinched and his tail pulled. Not one time did he ever snap at the kids.

That is not to say I completely trust him because dogs are not to be completely trusted. But when people are looking for a dog, they should not necessarily look for a specific breed unless they have done thorough research into their temepraments with children. It doesn't matter how cute they are you have to do research. Many breeds now have forums for owners so you can ask others how they do around children.

Since Smash is a mut or heinz 57 dog it is really hard to tell temperatment. When muts are puppies, they have to be trained and introduced to all family members. Teach children to treat the puppy with kindness. Any signs of aggression should raise a flag. Do not take chances.

From personal experience, dog bites affect everyone emotionally and financially. Everyone must learn while training a dog including the dog.

In Smash's case he has been shown unconditional love since he was a puppy. His owners have taken care of him on a daily basis or had someone fill in for them. I am not talking just about feeding and watering him but showing attention. He is taken for daily walks a few times a day. He is petted throughout the day as well.

Dogs are truly like family so treat them as you would your family.

Hiking with Smash

Yesterday, we took Smash hiking in the woods. He loves to go hiking.

We took a trail that follows the Canasauga River along the Tennessee Georgia line.

I used a long leash that allowed him a bit of freedom to run and sniff things along the trail.

In on nice still pool of water in the river, Smash took an opportunity to cool off by taking a swim. He really seemed to enjoy paddling around in the nice cool water be fore resuming his hike.

I am glad I took time to teach him how to walk on a leash when he was younger so we can enjoy times like this. Other dogs I have had have run from their leashes but when Smash sees me get the leash he knows there is a treat in store and he runs to me and is ready to jump in the Jeep.

Update on Smash and The Guineas

In my last post I was wondering how Smash felt about the birds. Did he think they look tasty or was he protecting them?

Well this morning we found the remains of a raccoon that had apparently attempted to open the bird cage. Smash a friends took care of business and made sure that raccoon will not be bothering anyone else.

I guess he really was being a good guard dog.

Smash and the Guineas

In order to combat the ticks this season, I decided to buy some Guinea chicks to let them feast on the overwhelming crop of ticks we have this year.

Smash has taken a keen interest in the guineas. I am pretty sure from the look on his face, he thinks they look pretty tasty.

He likes to lay beside the bird cage and act like a guard dog. But somehow, I think he is really just waiting for one to escape and he can find out how they taste.

Yesterday, he was sleeping as I sat in my porch swing. Suddenly the guineas made a noise like they had been frightened. Smash was up in a flash. He had to see what was disturbing the birds!

Maybe was being guard dog after all.

Choosing a Family Dog -Guest article

If you are considering getting a dog, I highly recommend you do research. Search the internet, check out books in your local library and even purchase a few magazines such as Dog Fancy. Check out forums, speak to local veterinarians too.
I did my own research years ago when my former husband wanted to get a Boxer dog. I learned so much just from other owners of the breed. If you have children whether small or teenagers, Boxers are great dogs. They have a wonderful temperament around children. In fact, many owners will tell you that Boxers seem to be naturally drawn to children and are protective of them.
After witnessing a horrible attack on a friend of mines two year old son 10 years ago, I did not want anything to do with dogs. My former husband had been given a dachshund as a gift. 17 stitches in the little boy and medical bills for us to pay was the final straw for me.
I love dogs as do my children. But after that attack I wasn't even sure I wanted anything to do with dogs anymore. But two years later, my former husband nudged me into looking at Boxers. I was very hesitant at first. I knew nothing about them although I assumed that since they looked like bull dogs they had a tendency to be mean.
That was far from the case. He sent me to Boxerworld.com to read through the forums and articles they had posted from all over the world.
After a few months of research online and books I bought, I got excited about having a dog again.
In December 2000, we bought our first Boxer dog. Our daughter was two years old at the time so her and Dixie Belle would grow up together.
It didn't take long before Dixie became very close in our family. Most everyone loved her. She was the perfect colors of brown and white. We didn't crop her ears since I thought it was cute to have round ears.
Dixie went a lot of places with us. Everywhere we went people wanted to pet her and she loved it.
Eventually Dixie became known as the "Nanny Dog." She was very protective of children including our daughter. She was a laid back dog with very little if anything that would bother her.
Our daughter could pull her tail, ears or just some skin and Dixie would not even flinch. She preferred to be around children who would come over to visit. It didn't matter what they did to Dixie she Never growled, barked or nipped. My daughter once put her fist in Dixie's mouth (her dad would wrestle and play with Dixie). She didn't do a thing except slobber on her hand.
You could pet her while she ate her food or drank water too.
Dixie did hate to have her nails clipped but she never bit me.
Boxers are characters. They will sit in an automobile like a human being. I cannot count how many times people beside us in traffic would look over and just laugh.
In the mornings we would wake up with a Boxer hanging over us with her cold, wet nose to ours. Sometimes she would give wet kisses. It didn't matter though because she loved us all.
There was one time Dixie was excited my mom came over to visit. So much so, that when mom went to leave Dixie attempted to leave with her. We had to pretend as if she was going for a ride by opening the passenger door to moms car. She got in but then we couldn't get her out.
Boxers in general love people. They are very gentle in nature and very little bothers them.
The only thing about Boxers is that you have to be an active person. They love to exercise. If you have a backyard (which I recommend you have) that is great place for boxers to exercise. Just make sure you interact with them as they are like children. If they want attention and it is not there then they can rebel in ways your children also do and you won't like.
When it gets cold or very hot, they do not do too well outside so it is best to keep them indoors. They have a very short coat of fur so it gets hard for them to maintain their temperature. Our Boxers stayed inside most of the time. They did have access to going outdoors which they did often on their own.
Boxers are not high maintenance dogs. All you have to do is make sure their claws are trimmed.
The draw back for us was when we got a second Boxer. This time we got a male boxer named Scout. Scout was also a great dog, he was just twice Dixie's size. When Dixie had her first litter of pups four of them were solid white. Everywhere we read was not good about the solid white ones. They have a tendency to be blind, deaf and a higher chance of diseases and death. Within a week two of them died. The other two were adopted. Some how Dixie also passed on parvo despite the fact she had been vaccinated. We believe this is why most of them died.
As far as other animals go, Dixie got along with most of them. At least until she got attacked by a cat. Cats were on her bad list but other than that she loved playing with other dogs big and large. When we had to move into the city she didn't mind the company of our neighbors dogs. In fact, my daughter let the others in to "play."
Of all the dogs I have ever had the Boxer has been the best dog. Just the Boxer breed changed my attitude about dogs in general since I believed dogs were bad to have with children. Research was the greatest thing I could do for myself and my family. I would have never taken that initial step and let go of my fears. I do still stick by what vets and animal shelters will tell you: Dogs can never be completely trusted.
No dog is perfect. It is just that some breeds have a better temperament than others when it comes to children. Boxers are one of them.
Jennifer Bryan
http://www.empowering-solutions.net http://www.jenniferbryan.com

Stess relief

Due to a lot of life changes lately I have been finding myself dealing with a lot of stress. As a personal performance coach, I give myself a lot of advice on how to deal with stress, but it seems I don't always listen to my own advice.

I have found one stress relief technique that does seem to work for me every time. Petting Smash.

While I was working vigorously to get a new roof on my house, Smash would just find a shady spot to lay down and sleep. Occasionally I would disturb him by dropping something nearby or running a noisy saw, but mostly he would just sleep.

However every time I would take a brake to sit in the shade and drink some water, he would always come over and lay beside me.

I was amazed at how quickly I could relax while stroking his fur. His calmness about the whole situation would flow into me. I picked up on his relaxed vibration.

I have also noticed that sometimes when I am feeling anxious and I pet him, he will get up and shake. It is like he is shaking off all the vibrational toxins that I put on him. But he never minds. He comes right back for more pet-the-puppy.

So if the calcium and B12 cocktails don't relieve your stress, try petting a dog. Or at least just watch one relaxing in the shade and try to look at life from a dog's perspective for a while.

Unexpected energy for an old dog

My friend Ken told me a funny story about his dog this weekend.

Ken was batching it for a few days while his wife was traveling. She had left him some vitamins to take that she told him would help with his ailments.

His old dog Prissy had severe joint pain and could hardly walk upor down steps any more. However, she was always eager to see what Ken was doing in the kitchen and she would eat anything he offered her.

We Ken was not too fond of the vitamins his wife had left for him but he was determined to use them up by the time she got home. So when Prissy showed and interest in the powder he gave her a cupful that she eagerly slurped down.

So everyday as Ken measured out his dose he gave a shot to his dog too.

Ken noticed that he was feeling better and more energetic from taking the vitamins but he did not mention that he was also giving the dog a daily dose or two.

Now normally, Prissy moved so slowly that when he took her out for walk. He could let her out the door, turn around and set the lock and alarm and catch her before she got to the bottom of the steps.

When Ken's wife returned from her trip , she immediately wanted to take Prissy our for a walk. She let her dog out as usual and turned to close the door.

Imagine the shock on her face as she turned to see Prissy running down the side walk!

Once she found out what had made such a differance in Prissy's life, she informed the company that made the vitinims and they have now formulated a combination just for pets: Click here to learn more about OPC for pets.

New pet health products

In addition to the all natural pet food supplement, there are now some new pet health products available:

Dogs are increasingly subject environmental irritants and exposure to pollution, resulting in a dingy, dry coat. In addition, dogs can also be plagued with dry, flaking and itchy skin. PetHealth™ grooming products are made of vegetable-based ingredients and are pH balanced, paraben-free, phosphate-free, alcohol free, preservative free and sulfate free.

Check them out by clicking here.

OPC Pet Health

PetHealth™ OPC is a food supplement made from a combination of bilberry, grape seed, red wine, pine bark extracts, citrus extract bioflavonoids, and glucosamine, designed to promote healthy joints and provide a strong antioxidant defense. Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) are bioflavonoids (complex organic plant compounds) found in fruits, vegetables and certain tree barks that provide exceptional nutritional benefits to your pet’s body. Studies have shown OPCs to be up to 20 times more powerful than vitamin C and 50 times more powerful than vitamin E in neutralizing free radicals. PetHealth OPC Formula with Glucosamine offers a unique, great-tasting powder that is sprinkled over your pet’s regular food. It represents the latest technology available today in naturally based pet food supplements. Read more here....

Help your dog be more healthy

Your dog is exposed to the same toxic environment that you are. So, if you are concerned about your own health, why not think about your beloved dog as well?

Check out this pet food supplement which provides many health benefits necessary for your dog's long and happy life.

Pet Food Supplement

Dog Breed?

I have had some comment asking about the breed of dog Smash is.

I think he is mostly mutt. Definitely a mix of hound and lab and the big black spot on his tongue makes me think there is some chow in the mix.

We call him the Heinze 57 breed.

We love him no matter what his ancestry.

Smash and Friends

Smash has enjoyed playing with one of the neighbor dogs lately. The neighbor is a German Shepard puppy. We call him Shep Dog because for a long time we did not know that his owners call him Sarge.

It is fun to watch them play. Even with only three fully functional legs, Smash can not only run faster than Shep dog but he can also out maneuver him in the woods. It is really funny to watch Smash make a quick turn and then watch Sarge go sliding through the leaves.

Smash does not let his crooked leg slow him down at all. In fact he will often stand on it when he marks his territory.

I am very thankful that I did not have it amputated. He makes good use of it.

I have also resumed some of his training using the sit stay fetch methods. He is a little reluctant to walk beside me on the leash. He would rather go in front. However, after just a few tugs, where I reassert who is alpha dog, he gets the idea.

I think he will be back to his old ways with just a little work on my part.

So if a new puppy is on your Christmas list, be sure to get the instruction manual to go with it. Order Sit Stay Fetch today.

Interesting dog behavior

I have recently restarted my morning exercise routine with includes walking with Smash in the woods. He now plays well off leash so I let him run and explore while I exercise.

I have found that one particular movement that I do which is intended to bond my spirit with the earth always has the effect of calling the dog. Smash is not unique in this. My previous dog's responded to this movement as well.

Smash is the funniest about it however. He will be off playing and sniffing and exploring and be totally out of sight while I do the other movements but when I do this particular one which involves placing my hands on the ground in front of me, I am often greeted by a big slobbery dog nose in my face. Sometimes he sill sneak up behind me and let me know he is there by nuzzling my backside.

Today I was describing this strange dog behavior to a friend who looks at everything metaphysically to see what meaning she might find in this behavior. When I showed her the position I use for the exercise, she said it is also a yoga position called the "Downward Dog."

We both found that an interesting synchronicity that dog would be in the name of the pose that attracts the dogs.

I have just learned to be aware that I will be greeted by a happy dog every time I perform this exercise.

A Dog with two noses?

Here is an interesting article about a dog with two noses. With extra sniffiness I suppose.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/6940289.stm

Why do dogs eat grass?

Smash always loves a tasty snack of the grass by the creek. I never have figured out why.

Others have asked this question as well.

read more here....

Smash's healing leg

I have not posted much about Smash lately because we have been really focused on his healing rather than his training.

His broken leg got either an infection or possibly a toxic bite and part of his foot died.

Well the wolf ancestry kicked in and he chewed off the part of his foot that bothered him before I realized what he was doing.

I knew his vet already wanted to amputate the broken leg, so I knew I was on my own to save the foot and leg.

I have really focused my attention on the fact that he has three healthy feet and legs. As I focus my attention on him, I visualize him whole and healthy and happy.

I am happy to report that he is now using his broken leg and gnawed foot. Last week he stood and lifted the opposite leg to mark his territory. And Yesterday he really surprised me by chasing a couple of raccoons up a trees and then stood on his two hind legs and barked at them in the tree.

Three cheers for Smashes healing! Thank you God, Thank you God, Thank you God.

Meditation while walking my dog

Meditation is all about being in the present moment and stilling the mind.

I find that while walking Smash, if I observe how he interacts with the environment, I can release my stress and worries and enjoy the walk as much as he does.

It amazes me how he never tires of sniffing the same tree or bush each time we walk past it. He sniffs it as if he has never sniffed it before. Or maybe he is seeking a subtle change in smell.

Some days he can't wait to splash in the water of the creek.

Other days he is more interested in seeking out just the right blade of grass to nibble on.

He loves to look up and watch the birds fly and watch the squirrels play in the trees.

He greets the turtles with a sniff and nudge with his nose before he quickly looses interest and moves on the the next thing along the trail.

When I let go and just observe the woods the same way Smash does, I see so much more that just a walk int he woods. I feel a connection to all of nature.

Training Smash to Stay

Now that Smash has gotten the hang of using his leg, I have resumed his training.

He remembered sit very well. He has a little trouble tossing that leg out and sitting for a long time gets uncomfortable for him but he does it well.

He still has a bit of trouble with stay. he wants to get up and follow me when I walk away. We have to keep repeating the procedure of sit - stay - no sit - stay- no - sit - stay - good boy - stay.

He does much better if there are two of us to work with him. If one trainer holds a hand in front of his face while the other one walks with the leash he stays just fine.

I am sure he will get the hang of stay again soon.

To learn how to train your own dog get Sit- Stay - Fetch from Animal Kingdom

Menu Foods insider trading

I can't stay quite about this any longer!

When I first heard about he Menu Foods dog food recall, I searched for info to post on this blog and send to my mailing list. All I found on the Menu Foods web site was an article about how stock prices might be impacted by the recall. Only later could I find a list of the recalled foods which by that time were circulated in the media.

Menu foods has since changed their web site and I can't find that original press release about the stock prices. I suspect it went away when news of the insider trading broke.


"Menu Foods began getting calls about sick cats around Feb. 26

CFO Mark Wiens sold 14,000 shares for $89,900 on Feb. 26 and Feb. 27. The shares are now worth about $54,000. "

See this article for more...

Also, still compare Menu Foods website with Nutro's web site. Notice any difference in tone?


All this makes me even more determined to know exactly what is going into Smash's food dish.

Update on Smash's healing process

Natural Healing

Smash is healing nicely from his injuries. The cuts on his side are hardly visible now. Most of the hair has grown back. There is still a missing stripe of fur where the bandage that held his leg that first week rubbed it raw, but you have to look close to see it.

The leg that I was told need to be amputated is doing well too. He uses it to scratch his nose although he looks funny when he does it!

Most amazingly he can balance on it while he hike the other leg to mark his territory. And as we were packing for our trip this easter weekend he showed that he wanted to go too by jumping into the back of our Suburban!

I still won't let him run loose as I keep seeing the neighbor dogs out on the road where I suspect he got hit. But he is adapting to being somewhat confined.

I give several Reiki treatments each week and I have been doing EFT on myself to calm my worries about him. He really does not seem to know he has a problem anymore.

Healthy Dog Food

With the scary pet food recalls int he news lately, I have noticed that a lot of people are looking for ways to make their own dog food.

While this is how we feed Smash, not every one has a nutritionist in the family to recommend the proper balance of foods that a dog needs to stay healthy.

So here is John Miller to the rescue. He has prepared a list of super dog food recipes that your dog will love to eat and most importantly will keep him healthy.

If you read anything about where the "raw protein" comes from that is used in most dog foods, you would not even stick you hand in the bag much less feed it to your dog.

John's recipes are easy to follow and very healthy for your dog. You won't have to buy special ingredients, just use the stuff you already have to get started.

To learn more about John's recipes and to get the peace of mind of knowing what is in your dogs food, click here now.

One Smart Dog

Check out this cute video of a very innovative dog. I guess he did not want to get in the green water. Smash would have dived right in!

Smart Dog Video

Everything I Need to Know In Life I Learned From My Dog

He trusts that the Universe, aka me, will provide for his needs. He’ll walk over to his bowl and if there’s food in it he’ll eat - if it’s empty he’ll go back to sleep until food appears..Either way works. He doesn’t pace the floor worrying about when the food will come and if it will be enough or if it will be his last meal or if it’s meeting his nutritional needs.

Read more....

Natural healing for dogs

I have recently received my Reiki atonement so I have been practicing on Smash. My wife and I have always practiced a form of hands on energy healing so Reiki is a natural extension of this for us.

I noticed the other day that we have been focusing too much energy in to his healing leg because the hair on the scar there had completely grown back while his other scars on his side and front leg are still surrounded by very short hair.

We have made a greater effort to spread out the energy all over him more.

I recently learned that dogs and horses have an extra chakra called the brachial chakra just above the shoulder area. This chakra is a balancing chakra for all the others. we have been working with this one to help balance him out.

Seems that most of our would be Reiki sessions end up being mostly just a lot of pet-the-puppy with is his favorite activity.

I have been amazed at what he has learned to do with his healing leg. He can now lift it at the appropriate times, and he can stand as it there was nothing wrong with him.

He still has trouble with the "sit" pose. He just can't get that leg to cooperate just yet.

But yesterday I got a surprise when I bent over to pick up one of his toys. I have not idea how he did it but I felt both of his front paws on my back as he somehow jumped up on me. Normally I would scold him for this behavior but I was very happy to know he had learned how to jump again.

I still intend to have a whole healthy dog.

Smash's healing leg

So far Smash is adapting to his less than functional leg better than he is adapting to his loss of freedom.

We keep him indoors at night on on a short tether outdoors during the day. We have at least released him from the crate.

I am really glad that we had trained him how to walk on a leash as a puppy, because he would be really hared to handle now.

He still wants to go visit the neighbor dogs, but we keep him on a short leash when we walk to the mail box.

I have been studying Reiki so he gets lots of practice sessions from me. I have also been doing EFT with him as well.

He is so full of alternative energy treatments there is no telling what kind of a light creature he will evolve into!

Thanks to all those who have sent prayers and energy treatments his way. And if any of you would like the opportunity to contribute to his veterinary bills and other costs associate with the injury you may make a donation at this link. Just make a note that the donation is for Smash.

Or make a purchase of the Sit Stay Fetch course from the site and a portion of your purchase price will go to Smash's recovery fund.

Black Lab saves climbers!

The dog probably saved their lives" by lying across them during the cold night, said Erik Brom, a member of the Portland Mountain Rescue team. He described the wind in the canyon as "hellacious."
The two women left the snow vehicle first, followed by Bryant and the dog. The three climbers boarded the ambulance, and Velvet leapt in after them.
In addition to the dog, who provided warmth and comfort,....

Read more.

Telepathic Dogs?

Have you ever noticed that dogs seem to know exactly what you are thinking?
Smash knows when I am ready to head back home during a walk even before I pull the leash that direction.

Do dogs really know what you are thinking? Do they pick up on body language, smells or do they really read thoughts?

This book describes an experiment where dogs were monitored by cameras while their owners were away. The dogs went to the door to wait for them when their owners simply had an intention about coming home.

Amazing stuff.

An Update on Smash

Canine Injury

Smash is doing much better. He has he appetite back with abundance!

He is finally getting the hang of peeing and pooping while balancing on only one back leg. He would still like it better if I would let him run free to go where he wants but I am keeping him on the leash for now.

He has done pretty well and re learning how to walk on a leash. He will balk on me when I think about returning to the house before he has finished sniffing the puppy trail.

I let him sleep in the garage and he has rearranged the furniture to suit him. He found a bag of stuffed animals that was destined for disposal and arranged them into a colorful sleeping area. But he would rather be back outdoors.

Thanks to all who have sent support and prayers and healing energy to Smash. I no longer refer to him as having a broken leg but a healing leg.

I have added the animal Reiki book to my

Dog vs Man

If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you; that is the principal difference between a dog and a man. -Mark Twain

Follow up on the Smash's injuries

Canine health treatment

Smash went back to the vet today for a followup. She removed his bandage from his leg and decided to leave it off because he had some swelling in his hip.

Thankfully there was no talk of amputation today. Everyone at Appalachian Clinic was smiling and telling Smash what a pretty and happy dog he was. He may have bruised my leg with his wagging tail!

In my Reiki session with Laurie, she told me I had to release my feelings of guilt for allowing Smash to get hurt. I have been releasing them. However, I am not yet quite to the point where I can say I am thankful that he got hurt. But I am seeing some good things come about as a result of the injury.

I have renewed my interest in energy healing processes and have spent much time reading and researching the different aspects of energy healing.

I am continuing to hold my intention to have Smash to be a whole happy and healthy dog. I expect the universe to deliver as I take action toward that desire.

Animal Reiki

canine health

One of the actions I am taking to manifest my intention to heal smash is obtaining the help of an Animal Reiki therapist, Laurie Filsinger.

Her website is www.animalenergyhealer.com

I found it interesting that Smash and I have the same energy blockages in our bodies. Laurie tells me this is not unusual and that her treatment will help us both.

To learn more about Reiki in general click here.

Smash's injuries

canine health problems

Smash is doing relatively well for what he has been through.

We are keeping him confined to a crate. Click here for crate training tips.

His cuts are healing quickly. And he is getting stronger every day.

His biggest challenge is the broken femur bone in his right rear leg. This bone is very tricky to work with because the muscles are so strong that they can tear he bone back apart even under good circumstances. In Smash's case, the bone is not a clean break here.

I spoke with the folks at OrthoPets.com about making a brace for him. They can make the brace but there are some other concerns that I will have to discuss with Smash's vet concerning infection and other canine health problems and complications that could risk his overall health.

Please continue to pray for Smash's complete healing.

A tragic end to a fun day

Injured Dog Behavior.

Last night, after a fun day of playing and hiking in the snow, Smash was late returning from his evening potty break.

When he did return, he was cut and broken. It looks like he was hit by a car.

Since we live at the end of a long driveway off a dead end road, we have never concerned ourselves with his getting hit before. We still don't know how it happened or where.

My thanks go to the staff of the Bradley McMinn Pet emergency clinic. They received my broken and bleeding dog with care and professionalism.

They made sure he was breathing properly and stabilized before working with his cuts.

This morning, I transfered him to his regular vet at Appalachian animal clinic. He is resting there now. Now I have to struggle with the decision on how to best care for his mangled leg. Amputation has been suggested as the most viable option.

Please pray for Smash as I have now reason to doubt that he can have a second miracle in his life. It was about this same time last year that he suffered a life threatening injury. Through a miracle of faith he survived that one when no one thought he could.

I believe that his leg can be healed and I reamin open to that option.

Funny Dog Behavior in the snow

Dog Behavior



It is always fun for me to watch a dog the first time the experience snow. Smash saw his first snowfall today.

He ran around sniffing and biting at the snow for a while. Then, when we got out our makeshift sled, he loved chasing us down the hill.

I am not sure what he enjoys more, playing in the snow or having everyone outside with him.

Either way, is really fun to just sit back and enjoy his funny behavior.

Energy Work with Dogs

Carol Tuttle has posted an audio on her site about the increasing level of energy we an expect in 2007.

She makes comment about how one of her children responds more to her thoughts and emotional state than to her words.

I have seen the same in Smash. He responds way better when my words and my feeling are congruent.

My friend Sherri has a Labrador that responds the same way. Her dog Duke seems to read my thoughts just like my dog Smash.

In fact, they both pick up on anyone feeling agitated or apprehensive very quickly.

Click here to hear Carol Tuttle's podcast

Labrador Retriever's Behavior Problems?

If you enjoyed Marley and Me and because you have experienced your own Labrador Retriever's Behavior Problems, you want to check out Sit Stay Fetch's tips for Labs.

Labrador Retriever Behavior Problems

Labradors are high spirited dogs with their own unique behavior problems. If you have trouble with your dog barking, biting, pulling on a leash, then this is your solution.

Or maybe you just want to train your Labrador to walk on a leash so you can enjoy his company in public. Did you laugh your heart out at the story of Marley's failing dog obedience training class? I is a good thing they did not have this course or we would not have had such an entertaining story to read.

Cure you bad dog behavior today by visiting Labrador Retriever Behavior Problems

More on "Marley and Me"

I just finished reading "Marley and Me." This book is the story of a large Labrador retriever that became a household pet for the Grogan family.

I had a lot of trouble reading the book because the pages must have been dusted with onions or something that made my eyes water every chapter.

Marley reminded me a lot of our dog Buster. Buster was a mutt but sort of a lab Shepard mix so he had a lot of the physical qualities of Marley.

Just like Marley, Buster was fiercely loyal. He was a great protector and he always positioned himself between us and any perceived danger.

We too moved from a subdivision to a place where our dog could run and play without restrictions. Like my dog Smash, we referred to Buster as an Ogre and we fondly referred to our place in the country as Ogre Acres.

I could not read all of the chapter about Marley's passing because it reminded me too much of Buster's last day. I still walk by his grave on the hill above the creek and remember how he used to love to run in the woods and play in the water. He would fetch sticks until I could not throw them anymore.

So if you don't mind a couple of days of puffy watery eyes, read Marley and Me. I laughed cried and throughly enjoyed every bit of this book.

Marley an Me

My friend Sherri loaned me the book Marley and Me by John Grogan. The dog pictured in the book looks just like her dog Duke.

I have read only the preface so far but it looks like it will be a good read.

Sherri assures me I will enjoy it.

When do puppies open their eyes?

Puppy facts

Puppies are born with their eyes closed.

When do puppies open their eyes? Usually in the second week.

Puppies open their eyes in 7 to 14 days after birth.

Dog lost in Colorado found in Tennessee

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - Seven months after disappearing from her yard in Colorado, a rat terrier named Daisy walked into the arms of Tracie Crass in Knoxville, some 1,300 miles away. Thanks to Crass, Daisy got an airplane ride home.

Crass spotted 2-year-old Daisy wandering down her sidewalk on Christmas night. She assumed the 12-pound dog had slipped out of its home amid holiday festivities, so she brought the pooch on her porch and waited for its owner to come looking for it.

When no one showed up by the next day, Crass telephoned the number on Daisy's rabies tag. She reached Daisy's veterinarian, who contacted Daisy's owner, Vonda Lundstrom of Aurora, Colo.

Read more...

Smash's New Years resolutions

Dog Training Goals for 2007

Now that Smash is just over a year old, I expect more from him.

For 2007 here are some things I will be working with him on:

More Loyalty: I want him to come to me without being called by name.

More Exercise: I plan to let him run in the woods daily one he shows he will respond to my recall commands.

More Fun: I plan to find some fun tricks that he likes to do and work with him on them.

Of course we will be using the material we have from Sit Stay Fetch as the basis for all these goals.

A puppy for Christmas?

Don't forget the instruction manual!

If you are giving a puppy for Christmas or if you got one, don't forget to read the instructions.

Start your puppy off right with the information in Sit Stay Fetch. This course teaches you how to establish a loving relationship with your puppy right from the start.

By starting with the correct information, you won't have to deal with unlearning bad behavior. You can just focus on enjoying your puppy and training him right.

Begin establishing that loving bond between you and your dog right now with the Sit Stay Fetch course. Click here to get your copy.

Dog tunnels through snow to save owners

"A seven year old German Shephard - Timberwolf mixed dog named Shana is quite a canine hero in Alden as the story spreads of her efforts to save her owners during the October surprise storm."

Read more...

Peanut butter dog biscuit recipe

Makes 2 dozen treats

¾ cup water
¼ cup oil
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 tablespoons peanut butter
2 cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup whole wheat flour
½ cup cornmeal
¾ cup oats
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Blend water, oil, egg and vanilla together. Add peanut butter.
Whisk dry ingredients together; mix into wet mixture to form a ball of dough. On a lightly floured surface, using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll dough to a rectangle 1/8-inch thick.
Cut biscuits with a cookie cutter, and transfer each biscuit to an ungreased cookie sheet, leaving 1/4-inch space between each. Bake 20 minutes or until just turning golden brown. Cool to harden.
Store in airtight container.

Teaching Smash to Shake paws

How to Teach a Dog How To Shake Paws.

Begin bygiving the Sit command and have your dog in the "Sit" position.

Say “Smash, Shake Paws”, and then gently take hold of one of your dog’s paws and lift it off the ground. Put his paw back on the ground, then praise and reward him.

Smash's favoitire reward for such behavior is lots of petthepuppy.

Repeat this a few times, and then try it again several times throughout the day.

After a couple of days, try giving your dog the command without picking up his paw.

If he raises his paw by himself, make a big fuss so he knows he is doign a great job!

However, if he does not lift his paw, don’t be discouraged. Instead, go back a step and practice lifting his paw for him for another couple of days.

Some days Smash does better than others.

We learned this trick from Sit Stay Fetch.

Bad dogs tend to happen to bad people, study shows

People who own "high-risk" dogs are much more likely to be high-risk themselves, a new study says, with vastly more criminal convictions and traffic citations found among those who own dogs that don't play well with others.

Read more in the Edmonton Journal


I have observed this myself that children and dogs mirror the emotions of their caretakers.

Walking the dog

Isn't it amazing to watch your dog while he is walking on a leash with you. That is when he is not pulling and tugging you all over the place.

I mean after you have learned how to teach your dog to walk on a leash.

As your dog walks calmly beside you, note how observant he is. Dogs are always very keenly aware of their surroundings. They smell and taste everything they find along the way. Their ears are hearing the slightest sound. Their eyes are constantly scanning the surrounding watching for any thing that moves.

We can learn a lot from our dogs as we walk them. Next time you walk your dog, try to be as aware as he is. You may not want to taste that squashed bug like he does but you can take time to let your mind be free of thoughts.

Just observe what is there. Describe it to yourself as you see it or just talk to your dog. This simple exercise of describing in great detail that which we observe was the foundation of Socrates school of learning in ancient Greece.

Just taking time to be aware of your surroundings will open your creative mind and allow you to think more clearly and find solutions to what is troubling you.

All this just by walking the dog. Isn't life great?

Home Made dog treat recipe

Since Smash had been such a good dog lately, his grandmother made him some treats.
She used 1 cup of whole-wheat flour, 1 cup of corn meal, 1 bullion cube, 1 package of yeast, 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 egg. She stirred the yeast into ¼ cup of warm chicken broth and let set for about 10 minutes. She placed the bullion cube in the remaining chicken broth and let it dissolve. When she was ready to mix, she placed the flour and cornmeal in a bowl and made a well in the middle. She poured in the yeast broth and bullion broth and added the egg. She beat it together and formed a dough ball. She rolled it out between two pieces of wax paper. When the paper became sticky, she sprinkle plain flour beneath the dough and rolled out the dough to ¼” thick. She used some of Smash’s favorite cookie cutters to cut shapes. She baked at 300degrees for 45 minutes. She turned off the oven and let them stay a few minutes longer to make them crisp like Smash likes them. This recipe makes 24 treats for Smash. She places them in an airtight container and Smash is rewarded for about two weeks for good behavior.

Pet costumes

Making Pet costumes

Dressing up for Halloween is a long standing tradition. The scary costumes are what I remember most form my childhood trick or treating days.

So, this year, don't forget your pet costumes when you get dressed up to go out.

I expect Smash will continue to use his dog costume. It is a pretty effective disguise. Who would suspect that I have an ogre living on my farm.

Potty Training dogs

While Smash is an outdoor dog, many people prefer to keep their dogs indoors with them. In fact, if you have a dog for security purposes, you need him sleeping by your bed.

The guys at Sit Stay Fetch have an excellent book on How to House Train your Dog. But if you just want the basics, see my article at:

http://mikestrawbridge.com/potty-train-dog.shtml


Or, if you have human toddler that needs to be potty trained see our blog at http://pottytrainingsite.blogspot.com

Dog starts car after eating chip

A breakdown patrol man who came to the rescue of a woman motorist has managed to get her car started using her dog.
Juliette Piesley, 39, had changed the battery in her electronic key fob but was then unable to start her car.
When AA patrolman Kevin Gorman arrived at the scene in Addlestone, Surrey, he found its immobiliser chip was missing.
Ms Piesley said her dog George had eaten something, and realising it was the chip, he put the dog in the front seat and started the car with the key.
Mr Gorman said: "I was glad to get the car started for the member.
"They will now have to take George [the dog] with them in the car until things take their natural course.
"It is the first time that I have had to get a dog to help me to start a car."

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/southern_counties/5382878.stm

Chasing Cars

How to stop Dogs from chasing cars

One of the most dangerous bad habits a dog can have is chasing cars. Chasing them is not so bad but when they catch one or the next one in line catches them. The results are often fatal.

My neighbors dogs have taken to chasing my Jeep as I drive by their house. So I am working with them to help correct the problem. I sure don't want to hit one.

I picked up a cheap but powerful water gun at a discount store. It is the kind that pumps up so it sprays a long way.

Now when they start to chase me, I slow down or stop and give them a good squirt of water. This startles them without hurting them. They will soon get the idea that chasing my Jeep is no fun. Maybe that will translate in to not chasing other cars as well.

This idea came from the Sit Stay Fetch dog training course section on chasing cars. They have more ideas there to complete the process and break them from the deadly habit of chasing cars.

Dog whispering magic?

Is dog whispering a science or magic?

Smash and I are getting better and better at communicating with each other.

But I am beginning to wonder if this dog whispering stuff is a science or magic.

Since it is easy to learn form books like Sit Stay Fetch who explains it in a step by step manner, it seems to be a science.

But when I notice that Smash seems to respond to my thoughts as well as my words, it starts to look like magic.

Lets take today for example. It is a rainy messy day here where I am. We are all very happy for the rain as our creek had completely stopped flowing. But I was not nearly as interested in walking in the woods as Smash was today.

He seemed to sense that right away and spent his time chasing unseen things in the woods rather than walking with me as he normally does. Also, he did not come right back to the house with me either. I think he went to visit his puppy friends down the street. The ones who have been known to get him in trouble.

I tried not to worry about him as I went about my work. later I decided it was time for him to come home and I better go look for him. I imagined looking out and seeing him on the porch.

I looked out and did not see him. But before I got my shoes on, I heard a noise and there was my wet and muddy dog Smash running up to greet me.

I gave him one of his favorite treats and hooked him back to his tether. We were both happy.

So I begin to wonder if he is reading more than my body language and vocal tones as taught in the book. maybe he is reading my thoughts instead. Either way, I am glad I learned dog whispering because it works.

Making trouble for myself and Smash

While Smash was running loose today, I began to remember the day he got hurt. I remember in the days leading up to that incident, we had commented many times that if he kept running off, he was going to get in trouble.

I tried to say to myself that none of my other dogs had had any trouble roaming the area where we live, but I never shook the thought that something would happen to my cute little puppy.

When he came home bleeding, I realized my worsts fears had been manifest.

Sometimes I wish it was not so easy to manifest my thoughts. Read more here....

recipes for homemade dog foods

Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats has some great recipes for homemade dog foods. Here is a sample:

In the morning serve the following as a hot cereal:

1 1/2 cups cooked oatmeal
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon honey

Combine and serve warm.

For Smash, I add some garlic and powdered wheat grass to supplement his immune system.

Dr. Pitcairn has many more recipes for homemade dog foods in his book. Smash loves them.

Family watch dog

Training your family watch dog to bark

One reason people have a dog is for protection. Since we live in a rural setting, I like my dog to bark when people drive up the driveway. He can hear them on the gravel road long before they come into sight.

Dogs will naturally bark at things that surprise them or things that move. They also tend to bark when they hear other dogs in the distance. Remember the doggy telegraph in 101 Dalmatians?

When your dog barks, go to him and look in the direction he is barking. Acknowledge that he has made a warning. Then, depending on the situation, you can command him to be silent.

Always acknowledge his warning before issuing the silence command. You want to make sure that your dog feels he has performed an important function.

Also, if you truly want a dog for protection, you may want to consider letting him live inside your house. While you dog can be effective as an alarm outside, he can be more protective if he is inside with you. Sit Stay Fetch has a tragic story of a woman who ignored the bark of her family watch dog. She now keeps her well trained dog with her in her bedroom.

One more point about family watch dogs: depending on the degree of protection you desire, you may have to get professional training. There is a bonus book with Sit Stay Fetch about training family watch dogs however they also recommend professional assistance for family watch dog training.

How to teach my dog to walk beside me on his leash

How to teach my dog to walk beside me on his leash?

Smash loves to try to lead me down the trail. Many of our hiking trails here are really too narrow for him to walk be side me. So I have had a bit of complication training him to walk beside me on his leash.

I have begun using the length of the free leash as his cue to walk beside me or in front. When I want him beside me, I pull up the leash short and hold him in the standard heel position for a few steps. He soon gets the idea. I reinforce the leash signal with the verbal "Heel" command accompanied by a visual image in my head of him walking calmly and happily beside me.

When the trail gets narrow, I let out the leash and slow my pace enough to allow him to go in front. He quickly takes to this! If he tries to pull on the leash, I give it a quick tug to remind him not to pull.

For more info on how to train a dog to walk on a leash click here.