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!

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