What Your Dog Is Doing While You Are Worrying on Vacation . . .

Ever wonder what your dog is doing while you are laying on the beach in Hawaii? You are fretting and worrying thinking your dog feels unloved, abandoned and worse yet, he/she hates you! Well, take a look and see what goes on when you are away!

Happy Furry New Year

Christmas Dogs and Charlie The Bird!

Furry Christmas included the wagging tails of 5 dogs and 1 bird.

At the top of the list is Maggie, a shihtzu puppy, who is the youngest of the group. This was her first Christmas and she was most excited to see Santa fill her stocking. She knew she had been a good girl and was looking forward to some goodies!

Slightly older, was Trigger, the jug (pug and Jack Russell mix). This was also her first Christmas and she hoped she had been a good girl so Santa would fill her stocking as well.

Bella the yorkiepoo also had visions of doggie bones dancing in her head. Neither had she met Santa before but she had heard all about him and did not want to miss out of her share of gifts!

Oskar, the Boston Terrier didn't actually believe in Santa since he was a bit older, but he did write a letter to the North Pole, just in case there was a chance. He knew he had been a rather good dog and happily would accept gifts of any sort especially tasty ones!

Close in age to Oskar, was Sage, the Eskie. Sage's heritage is from near around the North Pole, so she knew the truth. Santa was a neighbor of hers and she wasn't taking any chances. She hung up her sock, wrote her letter and was on her best behavior.

Last but not least, was Charlie, the bird. Yes, he and I also got acquainted for Christmas and New Year's. He was a good bird and Santa was happy to stop at this cage, too.

The only thing missing was a partridge and a pear tree. Maybe next year!

Christmas Cats!

It has been a hectic furry December here. So this blog is quite behind with entries. Rather than wait, I thought I would just begin to post some photos of this months visitors! To begin with are the cats!

Simon was one of the most talkative cats I have met. His person, Seth, told me about that in advance and he was sure right. Simon seemed most pleased with the catnip sock I brought him which I hope gave him some comfort while Seth was away.

P. Kiddy is also a talker. She really craves human attention and was a very sweet little gal. She much resembled my Sadie Mae and Baby Kitty which really stole my heart!

Then there was Phillipe! Now while his Mom and Dad warned he might hide in the corner behind his favorite chair when I came to visit, Phillipe was out in full force. I would say he was one of the friendliest and loving kitties of this Christmas season. Phillipe lives with his dog friend, Ty, and they are the best of pals.

Gracie lives down the street with her dog friend, Trigger. She was another gentle being who is as delicate and sweet as she looks.

Then there was Kiki and Max. They just moved from Milwaukee, WI with their dog friend, Oskar, and human family. They got to stay in their new house while Oskar came to stay with me for the holidays.

Topanga and Westerly live together. They are both lucky cats who were rescued by their family and live quite a loving life now. Both cats were so friendly and sweet and curious, too!

Baby kittens! These lucky babies, Elphie & Samson, were fostered by their Mom along with their siblings. Specially hand picked, they are staying with their Mom and being indulged to the max!

Franny & Zooey might not have read JD Salinger's book, but they are named from that well known novel. Franny was happy to see me each day and even happier to enjoy a new day's meal. Zooey slowly emerged from under the bed and got brave enough to come into the same room with me after a couple of days.

Doolin just moved into a new house along with her dog friend, Sage. They brought along their Mom, Teri, to look after them, too. Doolin was quite persistent about the catnip sock in my purse and while Teri said Doolin was not too interested in catnip, this photo caught him in the act! Oops! Having fun!

Zoya is another queen of catnip. She really loves to eat it, roll in it and just have a good time. (Her catnip sock is under her in the photo.) She also enjoys chasing the feather toy, Da Bird. I guess you can say she is just another kitty in training for the upcoming Cat Olympic Triathalon which includes, eating, playing and sleeping. From my observation, she will win the gold for all three categories!

Christmas Kitties!

Merry

Christmas

&

Happy

New

Year!

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Chooch

Penny, Another Thanksgiving Guest

Happy Thanksgiving!

May your stuffing be tasty.

May your turkey be plump.

May your potatoes ' n gravy have nary a lump.

May your yams be delicious.

May your pies take the prize.

May your Thanksgiving dinner stay off of your thighs.

MAY YOU ALL HAVE A BLESSED THANKSGIVING!

Maggie

Need A Great Dog Trainer? Call Joanne Compton

Need a great gal to help guide you and your fur child into better manners? I know who you need to call, her name is Joanne Compton. Joanne is the dedicated woman who runs the Eskie Dog Support Group (i.e. American Eskimo dog) here in the northwest suburbs, www.eskieconnection.com. Sage, my Eskie visiting friend, was a member of Joanne's rescue and a graduate of Joanne's skills.





Joanne is passionate about dogs. She not only manages the Eskie support group but she also teaches dog training at RIVER TRAILS PARK DISTRICT, MT.PROSPECT, IL 847-255-1200. Classes are always in session with the current classes beginning this week. In addition, Joanne is available for private consultations at your home to evaluate and help you with whatever issues you are concerned with. Her rates are reasonable but her results are invaluable. You owe it to yourself to give her a call. You can contact Joanne from her website, the park district or give her a call at : 847- 208-8583. Or if you prefer to email her, then give her a jingle at: bark@eskieconnection.com





Joanne Compton

http://www.eskieconnection.com/

bark@eskieconnection.com

847-208-8583










Here is a description of the Park District Classes:





RIVER TRAILS PARK DISTRICT, MT.PROSPECT, IL 847-255-1200


HAVING FUN WITH DOG TRAINING

Whether you are looking to train your dog in the basic commands of sit, down, stay and come, or if you would like to spice up the training with some agility and tricks, we have a class for you.

TRICKS AND TREATS
In this class you will learn how to teach your dog to do a variety of tricks which include some old time favorites such as give paw and beg, as well as jump thru a hoop, crawl and spin a circle. We’ll also learn some basic agility moves over jumps and thru a tunnel. Each night a different nutritious homemade dog treat will be served. Proper nutrition will be discussed and recipes will be available.
Next sessions start Tues 11/13 @ 7:15 p.m.

BASIC OBEDIENCE
In this class you will learn how to teach your dog the basic commands of sit, down, stay & come as well as how to walk nicely on a leash. Once your dog obeys these commands, you'll be able to eliminate such problems as barking, digging, jumping & pulling on the leash. Using only positive reinforcement for good behavior, the goal is for you to be able to control your dog without the use of a collar & leash.
Next session start Wed 11/14 @ 7:15 p.m.

Classes are open to dogs of all ages, run for 8 wks and are held at the
Multipurpose room at 550 Business Center Dr. in Mt. Prospect

Fees are $65 for residents, $78 for non-residents
Register by phone 847-255-1200 or online www.rtpd.org

Skyla's Return Visit

Last week we got to spend another couple days with Skyla. This visit was short but truly jam packed. Skyla got to hang out with 2 other dogs making it more of a huge play date for her. It worked out great for me, too, since the dogs amused themselves throughout most of the day. Skyla was busy enough she often forgot to follow me around the house. It was almost lonely taking a shower and not having Skyla waiting on the bathroom rug for me!

Skyla's Mom and Dad were at the Country Music Awards rubbing elbows with all the stars. (That is them in the picture above!) We got to stay home and watch it on TV which was fine for us. Although maybe next year we will go, too, and hang out with the superstars, as well!!

Sammy, The Pomeranian Charmer

Sammy has returned for a long visit. His Mom and Dad are in Europe. They finally decided to tie the knot. Mom is from Ireland so, off she and Dad went to do it up big with the family.


Sammy is a Pomeranian with tons of personality. He spent the first part of his visit running himself ragged with Skyla, the schnauzer. Since Skyla went home, Sammy has been busy chasing Annie, the resident cat. As it turns out, Annie seems to rather enjoy this play. I think she must think Sammy is just a barking cat who can't jump on the tables to escape like she can.

When Annie is snoozing, Sammy loves to bring around his stuffed squirrel so he can play fetch with me. Thankfully, he fetches, not me!

Sammy has all kinds of charms about him. If I had to pick one in particular I find myself laughing when he sprawls on the grass with paws spread in front and behind him. He then advances on his belly moving forward with the greatest joy. Perhaps his belly gets scratched this way? Or perhaps he does it to bring a smile. In either case, he does it well. Sammy gets me laughing and I think I saw Annie smile today, too!!

Doggie's Abound!

There are times when the term, raining cats and dogs is truly appropriate. That was true the other week as evidenced by these photos. The week began with Lola, the beautiful Poodle Shih-Tzus mix. Two days later, Sammy, the Pomeranian puppy came along for a 10 day stay. Next came, Skyla, the Schnauzer for an encore visit. As you can see, they all got along just splendidly with each other as well as with the resident cat, Annie.

It was a perfect combo! Skyla and Sammy ran around the house keeping each other amused. Lola on the other hand was glad because that gave her more time to just hang with me and Annie. And, as for Annie Kitty, she just graciously embraced them all as she always does.

Me? Well I had a grand time. I got doggie cuddles and kisses galore! Who could ask for more?

Her Name is Lola . . . .

Her name is Lola.

"Her name was Lola, she was a showgirl
With yellow feathers in her hair and a dress cut down to there
She would merengue and do the cha-cha
And while she tried to be a star . . ."

Sorry, I can't help but think of this song The Copa Cabana being sung my Barry Manilow right now as I write about Lola, the sweet little puffball who is a Poodle Shih-Tzus mix, and a star in her own right. I don't know if this Lola ever wore yellow feathers in her hair but she surely is a showgirl even now. Although Lola, who is 15 years young, can't hear too well and she has some health problems, she is quite spry and her tail happily wags at the sight of other dogs and humans alike. She loves everybody, no prejudice here!

Lola's adoring Mom took a well deserved trip this week and had Lola stay with me. Lola came with her special overnight bag from Yves St Laurent, as only a showgirl would come! It was packed with her special bed, prescription food, meds and her own ground beef and rice. Lola also came packed full with her loving disposition. It is no wonder that her Mother adores her. So did I! Lola is happy just to hang out, get belly and ear rubs. She is a perfect little dog.

Lola wanted to be everybody's friend which made Annie, the cat, quite happy. She had no interest in chasing cats or even playing much with the visiting dogs. Instead she preferred to just be around and that was perfect.

The week flew by so quickly and before I knew it, it was time to take her home. So glad you came to visit! Hope to see you soon Lola!!

DOG OBEDIENCE SCHOOL WINNER

Zoya The Cat & Her Rescue Story

Zoya and Michael are quite a pair. Zoya was literally rescued by Michael. It was a year ago that the first human known to Zoya left her with Michael to be her guardian while the human went on a trip. It seems after that trip, the human never returned for Zoya and abandoned her. Now, in Zoya's case, that was a huge gift.

It is clear that Zoya was traumatized before her new life. She has a tendency to get a little prissy and bite the hand that feeds her. My guess is it was well deserved from her prior treatment. In fact, when you walk past her she often hisses which leads me to think that someone kicked or shoved her with their feet. She still responds with a hiss to protect herself even though those days are long gone.

And, believe me when I say they are long gone. Michael adores this cat. She rules the house getting lots of love and special cut pieces of ham for her dinner treats! When Michael goes away, he arranges for extra kitty visit time so Zoya is not lonely in his absence. In fact, even when he is away for extra long days he might ask me to stop in for a short day time visit to refresh her food and play some with her. Michael is one in a million for his incredible concern and love over this orphaned baby.

Zoya began her new life a year ago when she was literally rescued by Michael from a very bad previous life. She may have begun her life badly, but she could not have been luckier the day she was "left behind" at Michael's house. She found a safe house of love here!

Picture of The Year!!!!

The intensity of the dog's face shows more sincerity than most people!

Skyla The Bell Ringer and Pavlov's Dog!

My favorite schnauzer came to visit again, Yes, Skyla, the sweetest little gal with the Greek name. I am astounded at this smart and well behaved fur child. Skyla is young, under a year, yet she behaves with the manners of a dog who has graduated from the Martha Stewart School for Doggies. In fact, I think she is going for her PhD soon!

Skyla still hasn't figured out Annie as yet. As you can see they have gotten nose to nose, with Skyla being so curious about the kitty. And, Annie is also curious as long as Skyla doesn't get to much closer in her face as you can see from her ears!

Oh, yes, back to why I said Skyla is so smart. Remember back to school days and the story of the Nobel prize winner, Ivan Pavlov and his dogs? Ivan Pavlov, the scientist, was able to measure reflexes and responses in dogs using various stimuli. The best known stimuli was ringing a bell before offering food to the dogs in his experiments. A conditioned measured response was elicited in the canines based on ringing the bell and offering food.

Skyla has her own bells that she has been taught to ring when she needs to take a walk. When nature calls, she rings her bell on the floor to signal nature is calling. I have been very impressed with this.

I had not idea how impressed I was until this visit. It seems that Skyla has gotten really good at bell ringing. So good in fact, that she has been ringing the bell a lot. It seems we have been on walks all day long. We no sooner come in from a walk when an hour or so passes and Skyla rings that bell. I grab the leash and out the door we go.

Well, I have to laugh now. It seems that Skyla really doesn't have a weak kidney or a loose bowel as it might sound. Much of the time, Skyla does nothing more than sniff the air, the grass and stroll, quite happily. In fact, it would be fair to say that Skyla was just faking me out!

It has taken me a couple of days, but I know realize that Skyla, the bell ringing dog, has learned the lessons of Ivan Pavlov quite well. In fact, she is so smart that she is using that bell of hers to elicit a conditioned response from this human! Sklya knows when she rings the bell, that I will jump to attention and take her on an outside adventure. So in truth, it is Skyla who should get the next Nobel Peace prize. Skyla has proven that Pavlov's dog can be anyone, including this human!

Way to go, Skyla! You got me! Yup! I think Skyla has a PhD already!

Cletus An Alumni of Tree House Cat Shelter

I love Cletus! He has such a great personality. The minute I walk in the door, he is there to greet me. He immediately rolls on the floor, shows his belly and lets me know he wants some human attention.

Cletus is another wonderful cat from a shelter. His previous home was Tree House for Cats in Chicago. If you are looking for a kitty, Tree House should be on top of your list. It is a no kill shelter totally dedicated to cats.

The good news is Cletus now lives with a wonderful family rather than the shelter. Here he shares his space with a full size schnauzer and loving family. Life is pretty good for him these days!

Sage The Fireball of Love!

In life, we often have friends who come to visit and always bring something special just with their presence. That is how I would describe Sage, the Eskie dog. Just like her name, she has a wise old spirit with lots of love to give. A smart girl and sometimes feisty, but always happy and eager to please. She has a mighty bark which is quite amazing considering her smallish frame. Although Sage is solid and quite strong both in body and spirit. Despite her more diminutive appearance, when Sage is around she fills the space with her love making both far larger.

Her tail is happy wagging whether she is chasing a squirrel or greeting a visitor. Of course, there are some time outs in life as you can see from the photo. Sage is quite good at those snoozing moments, too!

So glad to have you visit, Sage, my friend. I appreciate the love you bring! The feeling is mutual!

Roxy And The New Moon

Roxy is a 9 week old Yorkshire Terrier puppy who came to visit last week. She came as we entered the New Moon and as all new moons, she heralded caution and new beginnings.

Roxy weighed a whole 1 lb, 7 oz when she saw the vet last. Thankfully, her Mom tells me she is now up to 1 lb, 14 oz! I guess hand feeding her all the chicken from Whole Foods paid off!

This tiny bunch of energy was the sweetest little pup. However, she was the pickiest eater I have ever encountered. I wondered if she thought she was a cat rather than a dog! Needless to say I had quite the challenge to find foods that she would eat. Evidently persistence did work and the scale proves that!

Oh, yes, and speaking of cats, Roxy met her first cat by meeting Annie. She wasn't quite sure what to do with her. Eventually she decided that Annie must be a friend to chase. Annie didn't exactly agree but they two got along well enough. If Roxy wasn't playing chase with Annie, she was busy carrying around her big bone (see it in the photo, it is larger than she is!) Roxy also enjoyed Anne's sparkle balls and chewing on everything from fingers to shoelaces! Of course, there is plenty of snooze, time, too when it comes to puppies. Roxy would just wind down and snooze at my feet or in her little bed.

Marsha and Loren came to visit on Sunday. Loren has been wanting a dog like Roxy so it is only fitting that they are both featured in the photos. Loren offered to take care of Roxy for you forever, Katie and Doug, but somehow I think you might not take her up on her offer. Yes, everyone loved Roxy, even little Matthew next door who is 7. He really doesn't like barking dogs and is often afraid of some of the larger dogs who come to visit. But, Roxy was just perfect for him to pet and cuddle. We got him smiling and thinking dogs can be okay.

So while we humans think it is us who are taking care of our companions, the truth of the matter is it is our fur children who are really caring for us. They bring us smiles and love far bigger than their size. They bring us healing in all forms even when we think we are healing them. In Roxy's case her presence and impact are far greater and larger than 1 lb. 14 oz. Our fur companions are always heralding new beginnings like the New Moon. They will be at our side in the darkness and in the light. So it was with Roxy, she and I enjoyed the New Moon and look forward the new beginnings ahead. Thanks for your presence, Roxy!

Come on over again soon and bring your sweet joy with you!

Oskar The Girl Kitty

Who would have thought that Oskar was the name of a girl cat? Well, indeed, Oskar is the sweet gal kitty in these photos. It seems she came from her previous home with that name so her new parents kept it since she seemed to already like it.

Oskar was quite a sweet gal. She made sure that she watched from various points in the house so she could see what was going on but be distant enough to keep her reputation as a cat. However, even a feline forgets that sometime and so did Oskar when I came in for my daily visit. She loved to roll on the rug and let me know that in her own way she was quite happy for the company. She also like to vocalize some which added to her charm.

Once Oskar checked out her new bowls of food she settled in for a good game of chase the birdie. I tried my famous sparkle balls but they went flat with Oskar. But Da Bird feather toy on a fishing pole went over quite well with her. Oskar is a natural hunter with predatory skills that made Da Bird the perfect amusement for our daily visits. Of course, I know Oskar would have preferred the real kind of feathered friend but this was a perfect substitute and far more ecologically friendly!

Thanks for the fun time Oskar! Hope to see you soon!