Family Doggy

Ceser Millan - working with Baby Girl - A very fearful dog

2011-05-26T21:32:00.000-07:00

doggy wisdom for the day

2011-05-20T23:19:00.000-07:00

The reason a dog is such a lovable creature,
is that his tail wags instead of his tongue.

Stanley Coren - the Gentle Canadian - Deals with Noisy Howlers and Barkers

2011-05-19T23:03:00.000-07:00

Stanley gives his gentle approach to these problems.

Why buy a dog when you Can Get such a great rescue dog?

2011-03-11T23:47:00.000-08:00

In this video from the Good Dog show from Hulu.Com, Dr. Stanley Coren shows how to iron out some of the wrinkles with some rescue dogs. Ending up with some really great dogs!

And by the way, did you know that Benji and Wishbone were rescue dogs?

The dog whisperer takes on some crazed Chihuahuas!

2011-02-01T23:10:00.000-08:00

Here Cesar took on 2 crazed Chihuahuas, a border collie with a water obsession and a pit bull mix who had difficulty letting his "master" leave. He takes on problems that other trainers could not.

2010-10-12T09:48:00.000-07:00

Who should pay for a dog to be bonded? Last year I just tapped into an interesting conversation on a forum in amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/tag/dogs/forum/ref=cm_cd_dp_rt_tft_tp?_encoding=UTF8&cdForum=Fx1TSBNUMOHYAJN&cdThread=Tx2W6P80KMISFBZ

The writer was a veterinarian, Dr. Chris C. Pinney, who said that since owning pets is such a huge responsibility maybe owners should be bonded. The cost of the bond could cover the costs involved if an animal was relinquished at an animal shelter.

There were discussions on both sides of the issue, and I don't really know where I stand on this. However, it does bring up a curiosity in me in relation to our responsibility to our dogs it and reminds me of a trip I took to Europe. First of all, the German people would bring their dogs into restaurants. And I heard that you had to take your dog to obedience school as part of the ownership. So there was that image: a properly behaving dog that could go out into society in Germany. When I got off of the train in Italy, it was completely different. The first sight to greet me was a muzzled dog straining at a leash. The much more mellow Italians had much more unruly dogs. And I am sure they would be more likely to be abandoned or relinquished when they got inconvenient.

Does the government need to regulate dog ownership? Would it make a difference? I don't know, but it is an idea worth pondering for sure. Keeping a dog in a shelter is a cruel solution, although it is the best one our society has come up with. Somebody should pay for this, and maybe it should be the owner of the dog or cat.

Ceser Millan rehabilitates naughty terriers - Plus your own Freak Show dog

2010-08-31T19:20:00.000-07:00

Make your Friday the 13th Lucky - Adopt a Black pet - Very cute video

2010-08-13T13:11:00.000-07:00

Today I had a wonderful conversation with a friend about her little dog Cricket who recently passed on to where good dogs go when they leave this planet. They had had Cricket for over a decade, which is pretty good since he was a "last day dog" at the county shelter. One of the problems that Cricket had was that he was a black dog, and in our silly world black pets are often the last ones to be chosen. True enough my friend told me that the shelter lady had told her that "no one looked at Cricket." My friend told her that "they loved Cricket already," and so Cricket found a new home. Cricket was top cock on the rock, and was easy to get along with as long as you realized she was alpha. When the new dog came into the home she made that perfectly clear, and my friends went along with it and would feed her first, leash her first, etc. Anyway, Cricket gave many wonderful memories to a family, and there are many black pets in shelters and rescue societies that get overlooked. Have you thought about adopting one?
I found this really cute youtube video on the subject. The author runs a rescue, maybe you want one of her dogs or cats - or maybe there is one for you at your own shelter.
Today I had a wonderful conversation with a friend about her little dog Cricket who recently passed on to where good dogs go when they leave this planet. They had had Cricket for over a decade, which is pretty good since he was a "last day dog" at the county shelter. One of the problems that Cricket had was that he was a black dog, and in our silly world black pets are often the last ones to be chosen. True enough my friend told me that the shelter lady had told her that "no one looked at Cricket." My friend told her that "they loved Cricket already," and so Cricket found a new home. Cricket was top cock on the rock, and was easy to get along with as long as you realized she was alpha. When the new dog came into the home she made that perfectly clear, and my friends went along with it and would feed her first, leash her first, etc. Anyway, Cricket gave many wonderful memories to a family, and there are many black pets in shelters and rescue societies that get overlooked. Have you thought about adopting one?
I found this really cute youtube video on the subject. The author runs a rescue, maybe you want one of her dogs or cats - or maybe there is one for you at your own shelter.

A Summer Cool Off for a great Dog

2010-07-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

I find this was so cute! Buckwheat is squirrelly around water - as a border collie mix he has gone into the water and started to swim around in a circle frantically. But this lab had the swimming then down.

The Dog Whisperer rehabilitated a terrified dog

2010-05-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

In this episode Cesar Millan rehabilitates a greyhound mix that has so many fears sometimes she cannot even eat.

Can dogs Play too Much! Stanley Coren helps dogs who don't know when to stop

2010-05-21T17:39:00.000-07:00

In our life there was one dog "Humprey," who just didn't know when to stop. Stanley Coren helped his clients here work with dogs get their Cool on and Relax, man.

Thanks Stanley, and thanks to the Good Dogs!

The Animal Resue Site - Once again - CLICK EVERY DAY

2010-05-20T17:00:00.000-07:00

As I have encouraged you before, please please click every day. It is an easy and FREE to you ( the advertisers foot the bill - support them too if you can ) way to support animal shelters.

A Different Approach from a Different Dog Trainer - Stanley Coren - A Canadian this time!

2010-05-19T22:39:00.000-07:00

In this episode of "Good Dog" Stanley helps dog owners deal with noisy dogs - howlers and barkers.

I purchased this book of his off Amazon earlier and loved it!

More wisdom from my dog

2010-05-11T16:50:00.000-07:00

1.. Don't go out without your ID.

2. Be aware of when to hold your tongue, and when to use it.

3.. If you stare at someone long enough, eventually you'll get what you want.

4. Leave room in your schedule for a good nap.

5.. Usually the best greeting to give people is a cold nose in the crotch.

6. Don't go out without your ID.

7. If you look remorseful and sad you will be forgiven no matter what you have done. Who can resist those puppy dog eyes?

8. The best flirting is done on your back, paws curled cutely up, and with your tongue sweetly stuck out.

2010-04-23T23:14:00.001-07:00

This guy totally rocks - the dog whisperer! I am learning from him how to deFang Fang!

In this ultimate episode he meets the horse whisperer.

Poor Doggie!

2010-03-11T14:52:00.000-08:00

Do you know why do have no money? According to comedian Jerry Seinfeld it is because they have

"No pockets."

And it is driving them nuts!

"Cause they see change on the street all the time and it’s driving them crazy. When you’re walking them. He is always looking up at you. “There’s a quarter…”

- Jerry Seinfeld

A cute and fun thing to do wth your dog - dance!

2010-03-04T21:39:00.000-08:00

Buckwheat is in recovery with me

2009-12-18T22:16:00.000-08:00

Some of you may know that I experienced devastation in my life recently with a diagnosis of breast cancer. After experiencing surgery, I now am going through chemotherapy. Buckwheat has been a constant source of comfort to me, well when I was able to bring him to me without worrying about being jumped on. There were many funny smells around me I am sure.

Dogs are such a comfort when you are sick. They seem to know that you need the comfort. One center had a chemo dog, a dog that would comfort you as you received your medication. Unfortunately, mine did not, I hope the doctors open to it soon.

Any way, poor Buckwheat is exercise deprived, but he is taking it in stride. He knows he is needed.

Buckwheat's (and other border collie's) Ball Obsession

2009-10-14T11:50:00.000-07:00

This article reminded me so much of our Buckwheat. He came to us as a "German Shepherd, Macnabb, and cattle dog mix," the veterinarian said he was a "border collie," and he sure acts like it. Buckwheat is definately ball obsessed and I would be playing it with him all day long if he had his druthers.

The Border Collie Tennis Ball Obsession
By ezinearticles.com/?expert=William_Patrick_Kelly]William Patrick Kelly

There is much to be said for the herding instinct of the Border Collie and the pure intensity that comes along with it. You've probably seen videos of these dogs while they work and there is no doubt that every fiber of their being is focused on the task at hand. (Check out Youtube.com for tons of Border Collie videos...neat stuff!). As new owners of the breed we certainly did not have any sheep or cattle for our dog to focus on however a very simple substitute presented itself. The tennis ball. With one of these fuzzy little yellow balls you can give your dog (and yourself!) exercise and give him a job at the same time.

While we lived in a townhome when we got our dog we are fortunate enough to live on a small island on the Southeast coast of the US. Not only did this allow us to run our Border Collie on wide open beaches for pretty much the entire year but also on tidal flats and marsh beds. These dogs have tons of energy and you do yourself and the dog a huge benefit by simply going out and playing ball.

After two years with our Border Collie we have come up with a few tips that make his tennis ball obsession more productive. The first is pretty simple. Get a hold of lots of tennis balls. They are cheap to buy if you check out thrift stores. Or, if you are like us, you may have some tennis courts close by. About once a week we walk our dog over around the courts and let him rummage around in the weeds and bushes. His record so far is finding 8 tennis balls in under 10 minutes!

Secondly get a ball thrower (aka a whip stick or a "chuck it"). These can be found at most pet stores and allow you throw the ball several times further than you can by hand. Typically made of plastic with a tennis ball shaped cup on one end these not only let you throw further but you can pick up the ball with the stick. Not a huge deal but it will help keep your hands clean of dog drool, mud and dirt. Our Border Collie can easily run flat out for over an hour so the longer each run for the ball the faster he gets tired. And, as you may know, a tired Border Collie is a happy one!

Thirdly is the intensity and focus of the dog when he is playing fetch with a ball. He is so focused on that ball that, as far as he is concerned, there is nothing else in the world but that ball. This can be a major safety issue for your dog. Our Border Collie will go after the ball no matter where we throw it and he will get it. Be very certain to stay away from roads, parking lots and anywhere that your dog could be in danger. We had a scary moment one afternoon when the ball hit a rock and flew off at a crazy angle into a roadway. Luckily there were no cars coming but it certainly makes us more alert to possible dangers!

There is a funny saying that goes along with dog ownership...If your dog is out of shape then so are you. Nothing could be more true for Border Collie owners! Grab an old tennis ball and get out there with your dog!

William and his wife at www.bordercolliehelp.com are Border Collie owners with a great appreciation for the breed. He shares his experiences there as well as videos of the tricks his dog has learned so far.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Patrick_Kelly http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Border-Collie-Tennis-Ball-Obsession&id=2116046

These Laws are for the Dogs!

2009-10-11T21:05:00.000-07:00

Dog Law

In Columbus Georgia , it is against the law for dogs to howl after 9 P.M.
Berea Kentucky law requires dogs on the streets after dark to display a red taillight.
Florida law does not allow dogs to ride in a school bus.
A law in Zion Illinois prohibits owners from teaching their dogs to smoke cigars.
In Fox Point Wisconsin, dogs cannot travel in groups larger than two.
The Belvedere California City Council passed a law
that reads, "No dog shall be in a public place without its master on a leash."
In Britain, cab drivers must be sure that if they allow a dog in their cab that it must not be rabid. Otherwise they could be fined!

In Columbus Georgia , it is against the law for dogs to howl after 9 P.M. In Columbus Georgia , it is against the law for dogs to howl after 9 P.M.

A cute - although ridiculous dog joke

2009-10-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

Two Moradavian nuns have just arrived in USA by boat and one says to the other, "I hear that the people of this country actually eat dogs." "Odd," her companion replies, "but if we shall live in America , we might as well do as the Americans do."

Nodding emphatically, the mother superior points to a hot dog vendor and they both walk towards the cart. "Two dogs, please," says one.

The vendor is too pleased to oblige, wraps both hot dogs in foil, and hands them over the counter. Excited, the nuns hurry to a bench and begin to un-wrap their 'dogs'. The mother superior begins to blush and, then, staring at it for a moment, leans to the other nun and whispers cautiously, "What part... did you get..

Thanks to: http://www.doggiesparadise.com/dog-jokes.shtml

photocredit - nocturnalguy38@blogspot.com

Another Dog loving Blog

2009-10-07T01:04:00.000-07:00

I love to keep this blog light, and celebratory of having dogs. However, humane education is very important. I want to tell you about another blog I have started that discusses the serious matter of puppy mills. Please join me at my blog "Puppy Mills no More"
and learn how you can help with the advocacy against this terrible practice.

The Animal Rescue Site - Click here to give to animals in shelters for free!

2009-10-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is a wonderful service: you can click here - once everyday - and give food to shelter animals. This is at no cost for you, the advertisers pick up the tab.

Beach Dog

2009-10-06T00:57:00.000-07:00

Buckwheat became a beautiful beach dog yesterday, as we took him to the Santa Cruz mountains and beach to visit my college son.

He is a lot of fun on trips, although I am going to have to work with him more on not pulling on the leash.

Border Collie training

2009-10-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

I thought you might enjoy this video of border collies. Buckwheat is a mongrel, but the mix of dogs turns out to make him a definite border collie in personality, although I can see a bit of German Shepherd when someone puts their hand in the car window. :)

Buckwheat came to us as a working dog, he worked with cows. We have to work to keep him amused. I believe he really wants a job. Border collies are happiest when they have a job.

Hands Free Ball throwing! The Chuckit, Buckwheat's favorite dog toy

2009-10-01T23:31:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd let you know about Buckwheat's very favorite toy: the Chuckit with a ball attached of course.

That is the Chuckit. It really is a way to easily throw the ball repeatedly - without having to throw to bend down to pick up a slobbery ball. This reduces the strain on my body a lot, and also reduces the yuck factor considerably too. I purchased the longer one because I really don't want to have to strain. I think rubber balls are the best as they are supposed to be easier on the dog's teeth, and when you are as ball obsessed as Buckwheat, that can be a huge deal.

Buckwheat's soup - Homemade Holistic Nutrition without a lot of bother

2009-09-29T14:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we made some homemade soup - not for us but for Buckwheat our family dog. I became familiar with making homemade stock from vegetables in my vegetarian days, from books like The New Moosewood Cookbook (Mollie Katzen's Classic Cooking) or Hope's Edge: The Next Diet for a Small Planet by Frances Moore Lappe. I know that you can cook a bit of water with some slightly wilted vegetables down into a rich stock for soups, sautéing, and just generally adding to savory foods. But I never thought of using the process for dogs. I had explored the idea of making my own homemade dog food, but it seemed too difficult.

Enter Dr. G. , a holistic veterinarian in San Rafael, CA. He told me how I could use veggies with some protein and water to make a "soup" that I could use to add to Buckwheat's dry food. The vegetables provide anti-oxidants and help the dog be full without adding weight. Dr. G. also told me that his dogs had slimmed down to a nice weight when he started feeding them soup.

The tricky part is avoiding the few vegetables that dogs cannot eat: garlic and particularly onions. There is supposed to be some link to anemia, especially with onions. That is problematic because almost all commercially prepared stock use onions and garlic in the base. I am still finding out about tomatoes. There does not seem to be a huge amount of hard evidence out there, so I am going very conservatively. I know Buckwheat can eat broccoli, celery, carrots, and meat sources, so I will use those. Yesterday I made a soup with lettuce, broccoli, celery, carrots, water and a can of salmon. I cook it for a while, let it cool down and then pureed it in small batches in my blender. I have frozen it and popped a soup ice cube on top of his food when he was hot and he loved it.

I cannot always make my own homemade dog food, but the soup is a great start, and Buckwheat agrees.

Woof.

Welcome to Family Doggy - Dedicated to Our Family Dog, Buckwheat

2009-09-28T21:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Family Doggy, dedicated to all great family dogs; especially mutts and mongrels, junkyard dogs, mixed-breed rescue dogs and pound puppies. And especially our wonderful dog Buckwheat, whose lovely mug graces this blog.

Family Doggy has a definite bias to mixed breed dogs, but I also want to explore how people who are fanciers of certain breeds can avoid puppy mills and obtain their dogs responsibly.

In the days to come I will discuss how I enjoy my family dog and try to keep him healthy. I am very interested in holistic methods of raising my family members, and without anthropomorphizing too much - Buckwheat is a family member. Buckwheat is a high energy dog; he came to us off a farm and really wants a job or activity. He could chase a ball or a stick for hours, and if you woke him up at 2AM to take him to the park he would be game. This year I hope to get Buckwheat involved in some of the cooler dog activities: agility, becoming a visitor in nursing homes, etc. We also love to travel, and I hope that we can show some of the dog friendly places we like to visit near our home in the beautiful San Francisco Bay area. I also want to hear about your doggy! Please come along with us!