tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79096978633451337392024-02-18T21:20:27.062-05:00Happiest Dog BlogBecause your dog deserves to be a Happy Dog!Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-64556520564721315252014-02-18T13:27:00.002-05:002014-02-18T13:27:57.857-05:00Happy Dog success stories<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy Dog is by no means a rescue, but every so often a little furry friend needs some assistance and happens onto our path. These two little Cairn Terriers came into our lives when they needed a place to live out the rest of their years, and we offered a helping hand.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Onchu</u></span></b></div>
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A lot of you already know about Onchu. He's a sweet older guy who came to Happy Dog months ago when his owner lost her housing. I said I would keep him with me and help get him to a rescue so he could find a place to stay. Next thing you know, I am having a difficult time filling out a rescue application, because I know Onchu and like him very much. He is one of the easiest little dogs ever. Good with every dog he meets, loves people, quiet, housebroken to a fault, decent off leash and just a happy little dude. To simply pass him along to some unknown fate made me feel physically sick. I eventually let this all go on a friend of mine, who (at the end of the emotional tirade) said he would take Onchu. What started out as a merciful undertaking, has blossomed into the cutest friendship. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys enjoying a draught after a long, hard day of herding pigs</td></tr>
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Onchu now spends his days either kicking it at Happy Dog with his human and dog friends, or romping about the NH farm he lives at, helping his old man wrangle up the birds, goats and pigs. He enjoys chewing bullysticks, howling at emergency vehicles, surfing on the center console like a boss, running in the woods, and getting to know pretty ladies. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Tinkerbell</u></b></span></div>
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Tinkerbell needed a new home, and when the person who went to meet her saw what her life was, he wouldn't leave her behind. She came to Happy Dog for a short period, and was then presented to one of our friends who has been wanting a dog for a long time. He fell in love with her, and she is now also up in NH living the farm life. She is a gentle little girl, but full of spunk. Great with other dogs and children, quiet, kind and super playful. She is now going to spend the rest of her days receiving the love and care she so deserves.</div>
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Now I don't know about you guys, but I love me some happy endings.</div>
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Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-50961297061369197602014-01-21T22:34:00.000-05:002014-01-21T22:54:06.662-05:00To feed or not to feed, that is the question...<br />
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I get a lot of questions about diet. What are the best foods? Where do I get them? When should I feed? How much should I feed? How do I know what is good for my pet? What do I feed my pet? Why did I decide on those foods in particular? <br />
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I have served a variety of different foods. From Eukanuba (not good), to Nutro (eh), to Solid Gold (getting better), to raw (the best but not practical for my lifestyle at the time), to Orijen (top shelf), to Acana (same shelf) and Honest Kitchen (dehydrated raw! Great and practical! YAY!). My last two dogs Jimmy and Tabitha both did wonderfully on the Orijen. Tommy started out okay, but ended up not fairing so well in the end (eating an absurd 6 cups of food per day without gaining enough weight or muscle mass). I went back to learning about dog food and I now feed 1/2 poultry based Honest Kitchen (grain free - Force or Embark) mixed with 1/2 poultry based Acana (grain free). <br />
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I have gathered quite a bit of information about the canine diet (and along the way I have learned a lot about the feline diet as well). It's a subject I never tire of, and I feel it's also a subject you can never learn too much about. The most important thing for me personally is to stay open minded (I'm human and carnivore's eating habits are kind of gross), and use my head when there is a question that I am having trouble finding the answer to. As much as I'm sure I could write pages and pages of my opinion and how I came to them, I have come up with a far simpler plan. </div>
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I have a personal philosophy about food for myself, and extend that to how I feed my dog, because well, I love him and want him to be as healthy as possible. First rule of thumb when regarding dog food is, if I can purchase it at a large chain store I know it's probably not a good food. I don't want a cheaper/convenient food because more often than not they are rife with fillers and subpar ingredients. Health, for me personally, isn't necessarily about price or convenience. <br />
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I truly believe a majority of the health issues we see today are a direct result of a lousy diet. As a groomer I could smell when a dog was on a bad diet because just like us, it exits the body in many different forms. I have seen dogs with reoccurring ear infections, appetite issues, weight issues, major skin issues, hair loss, weeping/dull eyes, lackluster coat, joint issues, muscle growth, even aggression issues, make a complete recovery just because the owner switched to a better food (and gave it enough of a chance that the toxins from the bad diet could leech out of the system). As with us, diet promotes a healthy mind and healthy body.<br />
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My stipulations for dog food are as follows: I want it to be as fresh as possible, GMO free, grain free, additive free, and filler free. Okay, so, ingredients. Can I read the word and understand it? I'm not big on putting a mystery in my mouth and relying on it for sustenance. If I don't know the word, and look it up, do I fully understand the breakdown? If the answer is no, I don't often put it in my mouth. I do the same for Tom.<br />
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So in the end, what is the best food? That is up to you, as the owner, and it all depends on how the individual dog responds to the food. Orijen is considered one of the best possible dry diets on the market today. Tom does not do well on it, so I don't feed it. It's as simple as that. But as long as I stick to my basic rules about health and diet, I know I will make the right choice. For myself and my pet.<br />
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Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-66106324031345971122013-06-27T21:11:00.002-04:002013-06-27T21:11:42.505-04:004th of July (7/4)<br />
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Hello,</div>
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A friendly reminder that Thursday (7/4) is the 4th of July and Happy Dog recognizes it as a holiday. If you have the day off and do not need Happy Dog's services, please let me know. As always, if I do not hear from you, any regularly scheduled care will happen as usual and the holiday charge of $20 per scheduled service (on July 4th only) will apply.</div>
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Thank you and enjoy the holiday!</div>
Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-72480232269641066792013-06-06T22:54:00.002-04:002013-06-06T22:58:37.361-04:00Angel, Luna and I need your help.<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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I have recently had one of the most wonderful people I have
ever known pass away. She was like a sister to me. She owned two
cats, Angel and Luna, whom she loved more than anything else on this planet. I promised her I would make sure they would
be taken care of were anything to happen to her and I aim to keep my word.</div>
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After retrieving them from the apartment where they were
abandoned, I have had both girls at my home for a couple days. As much as they are very worried and
confused, they have started to explore and show themselves a little more instead of hiding all day. They are nice cats and even after all
they had gone through prior to coming here, were not aggressive or mean in any
way. </div>
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After much deliberation, I have come to the extremely
painful conclusion that I cannot keep them here. With all of the dogs coming through my home, it simply isn’t
a solution that I can honestly say is best for Angel and Luna. They are residing in my office (behind
a closed baby gate and door), which leads onto a screened porch, so they are at
least safe and well cared for, but I believe they need more room and somewhere
they don’t have to worry about the constant coming and going of dogs (some of which want to do them harm). I visit with them frequently throughout
the day but I can see the dogs have them on edge.</div>
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Once they are a little more settled, I will be taking them
for vaccinations and to be spayed.
I just want to give them a little time to adjust first. </div>
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I will also try to get better pictures as they come out from
hiding. They both look very
similar and I believe they are sisters from the same litter. Angel is a little smaller than Luna but
other than that, their markings are very alike. They are both your typical shorthaired tiger cat.</div>
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I am putting this out to all of you pet lovers because this
is a strange situation. I am not
willing to simply hand them over to someone and wish them well. I am searching for an owner who is
willing to not only keep Angel and Luna for their whole life, but I am also
looking for someone who is willing to stay in touch with me for that entire
period. My promise to my friend is
very important to me, and I personally believe that not knowing how the girls
are, or where they are, breaches that trust she had in me. </div>
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The only care requests I have are that the new home have
some cat experience and will have Angel and Luna remain
indoor cats. My friend did not let
them roam outside (unless on a harness and leash) and I know that would be very
important to her. </div>
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If there is anyone who would like to help, please <a href="http://www.happydogonline.com/" target="_blank">contact me</a> in any way you choose. I will happily keep them with
me until I find the correct arrangement. I'm not going to be overly picky, but I am going to be pretty serious about how I go about this, as where these two cats end up is incredibly important to me.</div>
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Thanks so much for taking the time to read this.</div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-56049176124831347822013-05-20T11:59:00.001-04:002013-05-20T12:00:43.622-04:00Memorial Day (5/27)<br />
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Hello,</div>
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A friendly reminder that Monday (5/27) is Memorial Day and Happy Dog recognizes it as a holiday. If you have the day off and do not need Happy Dog's services, please let me know. As always, if I do not hear from you, any regularly scheduled care will happen as usual and the holiday charge per scheduled service (on Memorial Day only) will apply.</div>
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Thank you and enjoy the holiday!</div>
Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-31340911124398895102013-04-27T21:54:00.002-04:002013-04-27T21:54:31.060-04:00Walls might keep others out, but gates let in the puppy magic...I trust you are all enjoying spring weather which has finally arrived! The playgroup dogs and I certainly have been and if there is no reason to go inside, we simply stay out. SO nice.<br />
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As of last year I have been wanting to replace the main gate to the yard. The old one was a tad too short for my liking, and was starting to look pretty shabby. <br />
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As my driveway is exactly 8' wide, I have been waiting for "the perfect height" fence panel, because life just isn't worth it unless I am constantly on mission impossible. And heaven forbid I simply go to a fence supply store and tell them what I want. Then while browsing Craigslist the other day, I spotted the perfect panel. 4 1/2' x 8'. Right? How perfect is that? <br />
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So, with a whole bunch of help from friends, the new gate was transported, constructed and hung. I am beside myself with how much I love it. It's super sturdy, tongue and groove and short enough that I can easily see over. There is a sweet double latch system going on to soothe that neurotic woman inside me who constantly reminds me of everything that could possibly go wrong (even though nothing she tries to convince me of has ever even come close to happening).<br />
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Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you, The Gate.<br />
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<br />Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-79742579264099933902013-04-08T14:04:00.001-04:002013-04-08T14:04:05.018-04:004/15 is Marathon Monday<br />
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Just a friendly reminder that Monday, April 15th is Marathon Monday. If you have the day off and do not need Happy Dog's services, please let me know. As always, if I do not hear from you, any regularly scheduled care will happen as usual.</div>
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Thanks!</div>
Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-14165834606382419852013-03-15T16:07:00.000-04:002013-03-15T16:07:39.999-04:00must... reach... bush... and the front clip harnessI'd like to start this off with commending anyone who regularly walks their dog. It provides so much that is essential to a dog's (and our) well being, not to mention how much something as simple as a walk can help build the dog/owner relationship in general. However, one of the things that can take away from a walk is leash pulling. <br />
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A quick lesson on leash pulling:<br />
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If your dog pulls you towards something (vegetation, an entrance/exit, another dog, food, etc.), and you allow it to reach the something with the leash anything other than slack, the pull is positively reinforced. You have basically given your dog a big juicy treat for keeping the leash tight while dragging you towards something. The positive reinforcement (treat) is reaching the desired location. That's it. If we never allowed our dogs to reach the desired location from the very beginning, and reinforced a slack leash, our dogs would never pull. It's really that simple. <br />
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Yes, you might say, that is all fine and good, but that is not how we started, my dog pulls and I want it to ease up. Is there something that an help me with this since it is already an unwanted behavior? The great news is that there are tools out there which help with the pulling issue!<br />
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I have recommended the following product to a bunch of people and gotten back a lot of success stories, so I thought why not tell everyone? After all, the people have a right to know.<br />
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<b><u>THE FRONT CLIP HARNESS</u></b></div>
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I personally think the front clip harness is quite possibly one of the coolest anti-pull tools on the market. In fact, I give anything clip 5 big shiny gold stars. Now I have always just used a roman (or standard) style harness with the metal ring on the chest and clipped it to that ring, but I really like the design and ease of the front clip harness and I own one of those as well. Obviously, it's totally up to you how you want to handle it (if you even want to handle it).<br />
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<b>Ember modeling the (front clip) <a href="http://www.premier.com/View.aspx?page=dogs/products/collars/easywalk/description" target="_blank">Easy Walk Harness</a>:</b></div>
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<b>Tommy modeling a roman (or standard) style harness, used as a front clip:</b></div>
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The idea behind the front clip harness is that you now control the dog's center of gravity, sort of like how you can control something the size of a horse with a measly head halter. They have to follow the front of their body, they don't have a choice. Gravity and kinetic energy mandates it so. So when your dog begins to pull, you can easily redirect their center of gravity, consistently show them the correct thing to do and reinforce the good behavior, and presto, one day the pulling ends completely. Well, provided you are consistent and uphold your end of the bargain. Or other people have luck with simply putting the harness on and walking without pulling. The harness does all the work. It's up to you if you want to back it up with training or not. The thing to remember is you can change your dog's behavior any time you'd like, it just takes consistency. Put the front clip harness on and do not reinforce pulling while it is on.<br />
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Regular collars and back clip harnesses cannot help you do this. It was explained to me like this: Put your hand in the area of someone's chest (neck not recommended) and lightly push. What do they do? They lean into it so they can maintain their control/balance. This is the exact same concept of the collar and/or harness that is clipped on the back D ring. Not only does it offer very little by way of control, the "push" of the collar or harness simply makes your dog "push" (or pull) back even harder. It is natural instinct to do so. Also, I'm really keen on redirecting rather than dragging away. Just saying.<br />
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Keep in mind that I'm a big harness fan in general. It keeps your dog's body language very clear where collars can sometimes cause them to go into a position they do not mean to portray. When a collar is pulled back on from above, the head goes up, the chest comes out, the body is stiff to maintain balance and the poor dog is now challenging any dog who approaches it to a potential fight. How lousy is that? I personally believe a lot of leash aggression gets started due to simple leash mismanagement.<br />
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#1 thing to remember is a dog does not pull itself, which means you are 50% of the problem. Some people would even go so far as to say you are 100% the problem as the dog doesn't know any better until you communicate (and positively reinforce) it to be otherwise. Do you love that or what? First time I read that I was all, "Pfff! Yeah, okay trainer person! SO the expert! Because there was... uh... that time... and sometimes he... he... <span style="font-size: x-small;">should just magically know better because that would mean less work for me...</span> *sigh*". And then I stopped blaming my dog. Because I now feel silly for doing it. Nothing changes my perception faster than feeling a fool. ;) Now, instead of walking the dog, I am walking <i>with</i> the dog. <br />
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Remember everyone, we got them into this situation. It's not like they came knocking on the door one day asking if we needed a dependent who we could be frustrated with every time we go out for a much needed walk. ;) <br />
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I hope this helped! Happy walking!Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-3689667452462953772013-02-14T14:51:00.001-05:002013-02-14T14:55:47.780-05:00Happy Valentine's Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-8655908541264350582013-02-11T10:15:00.003-05:002013-02-11T10:15:56.479-05:002/18 Presidents Day<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">Hello! I hope this finds everyone well after the blizzard. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">2/18 is Presidents Day and I know a lot of people have it off. As usual, Happy Dog will provide any usual scheduled care unless I hear otherwise from you.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">Take care and stay warm!</span>Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-87295226590830462672013-02-06T17:38:00.001-05:002013-02-06T17:38:29.994-05:00To hold you over...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: left;">I have a couple of things I am planning on writing about and I will probably get to it this weekend. :) Until then, enjoy.</span></div>
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<br />Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-67681380774839953772013-01-16T14:37:00.001-05:002013-01-16T14:37:39.548-05:00The latest...Some things have been going on here at Happy Dog and now that the holidays are over and gone and everything has gone back to normal, I thought I would fill in the gap that I am hoping you can forgive me for. I had a little while there where I didn't have much to say, and then the holidays hit and OOF. I sure loved how action packed it was while it happened, but it's nice to be back to normal.<br />
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A little before the holidays, my old dog Jimmy faded completely health wise, and as I could no longer justify making him continue, I went ahead and let my buddy of 13 years go. Though it was absolutely the right decision, I miss him terribly. He was such a good guy, and I very much doubt there will be another like the James.<br />
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Once Jim had passed on, Tabitha started to deteriorate at a rapid pace. She had already been having a very tough time with the transition from her usually low key, quiet life, where she was used to my undivided attention, to the very busy schedule, go go go, constant traffic of other dogs, Happy Dog life style. I personally believe that the absence of her constant companion (she had Jim with her since 9 weeks of age) was just too much for her to bear on top of the life style switch. She became a very different dog than I was used to, sad and obviously not enjoying life at all. I tried to help her along but nothing really helped and she continued on her downtrodden downward spiral. Two of my close friends who love her (and are adored by her), had offered to take her for breaks here and there before Jim was gone. They had backed off after Jim was gone, not wanting to double whammy me. I ended up discussing it with them and Tabitha went to spend some time at their home. She was picked up on a day she was completely despondent due to the day presenting a larger and more boisterous playgroup, and she never looked back. She was transformed. The undivided attention paired with one older (and awesome) Scotty dog to spend her time with throughout the day was exactly what she needed. I was sent picture after picture of the happy looking Tabitha I remember. Due to the immediate and obvious change, my friends and I decided she could simply stay with them until the end of her days. As much as I miss Tabitha, I cannot think of a better situation for her to be in and it is clear she cannot either. She comes to visit, and as much as we are psyched to see each other, she heads for the door when it is time to go and never looks back. It's a bittersweet situation. I might miss Tabitha, but I love her enough that I would rather her away from me and happy, than with me and miserable. She's too good a girl to deny that to.<br />
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Luckily for me, I have two long term boarders so when I was personally "dogless" I had these two cuties to keep me company while I finished up the holiday madness and then started to decide what to do without a furry partner in crime.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Izzi & Lexie</td></tr>
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As much as I was reminded that I am surrounded by dogs all the time, and as much as I might love them all like they are my own, it's not the same as having my own. After making certain Tabitha was completely happy in her new (and that her new home was completely happy with her), I started looking around for another buddy who needed a home. I ended up finding a little one online and filled out the adoption application. And that is how I ended up with little Tommy Two Guns Gone Fishing. Tommy came into my life 1/12/2013 at 12 weeks of age and he is really doing well. He's a really good little guy. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to pick up the Playgroup!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making friends is exhausting...</td></tr>
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Not only is he doing wonderfully, everyone who comes into my home is doing wonderfully with him. I truly cannot think of a better group of dogs to show a new puppy the ropes of life. They are all so patient, fun and understanding all while teaching him how to have excellent boundaries. If only all puppies could be this lucky. <div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ember & Tommy</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPCy4MfgYFoJRFsxL4tXO1Q5d5FJY3vDdMD28qgcUZO6n_HrJ87_Ia9Zj5vZudDTGuPywgRai7uvW6mr3JuK0GslGrDiq9iqOaIF8-Iuc__XuONlI1241qvPkwzTDlv5pFvL8nXJIidhY/s1600/IMG-20130115-01466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPCy4MfgYFoJRFsxL4tXO1Q5d5FJY3vDdMD28qgcUZO6n_HrJ87_Ia9Zj5vZudDTGuPywgRai7uvW6mr3JuK0GslGrDiq9iqOaIF8-Iuc__XuONlI1241qvPkwzTDlv5pFvL8nXJIidhY/s400/IMG-20130115-01466.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riggins & Tommy</td></tr>
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After he is a little older, I am planning to get him out and about where other people and dogs play. If anyone knows any super great local areas to take your dog to, please, let me know.</div>
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I am going to try and stay abreast of this blog a little better than I have in the past. </div>
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If there is anything you would like discussed or reviewed, you just let me know and I will do my best on that subject matter.<br /><div>
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Have a tail wagging type of day!<br />
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Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-2364042526041213742012-11-10T20:44:00.000-05:002012-11-10T20:44:21.838-05:00Oh girls just want to have fu-un!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mali and Lilly have a great time while Fendi joins in a little in the end.</div>
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<br />Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-49986585833435031662012-11-04T12:56:00.003-05:002012-11-04T12:56:47.347-05:00Oh, na na, what's my name?Holy moly! Where HAVE you been? Sorry you guys. Had a little rough patch there and the interwebz was the last thing on my mind for a bit. After this, I'll download all the new pictures onto Facebook.<br />
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Something came up the other day that had me thinking of you all. A playgroup dog had lost her identification tag. You know the one? Name, phone, address? Yup, that one.<br />
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A while back I was about to make up new tags for my dogs as one of the numbers on the tags was no longer current. I was talking to an old dog loving friend of mine while creating the tags. She told me to make the next ones without their names on there and instead put the word REWARD, and here's why:<br />
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Side note: I am not usually into feeding any type of paranoid frenzy but this made sense to me and I thought I would pass it on. <br />
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Horror of horrors, you have somehow misplaced your favorite fuzzy friend. Now although anxiety ridden about their general welfare, you know that with the microchip (they ARE microchipped right?), tags, and loose dogs running amok being generally frowned upon, they can't stay missing for very long. With those things on your side, let's pretend someone does in fact find your buddy and they start reading the tags. They now know your dog's name and were they awful enough to simply decide keep your dog, it wouldn't be that hard of a switch. <br />
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The better thing to do, is skip the name and instead put the word REWARD in big old capital letters. Tabitha has the kind of tag which has writing on the front and back. The front reads REWARD and the back has my phone number, email address and street address. As for Jimmy, his was always NEEDS SEIZURE MEDICATION and then REWARD, followed by the phone, email and street address on the flip side.<br />
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Remember, you want to tell them anything that is absolutely necessary and then let them know they have a positive reinforcement coming their way for getting in touch with you. People love incentives and usually act upon them. :)<br />
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Now, other than someone calling Tabitha "Reward" for a while after meeting her and reading her tags instead of asking her name, it's been a pretty fool proof plan for me. Although, I don't have many mishaps with my dogs, so I might not be the most reliable source on the subject. Like I said, just thought it worth a mention for the next time you make up tags. Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-12132758788248015732012-09-08T09:10:00.001-04:002012-09-09T20:24:14.252-04:00Playgroup additionsSo you know who has gone and how much we miss them, but how about who is new and how much we are enjoying getting to know them? <span style="text-align: left;">I feel so blessed to have such an amazing group of dogs. Everyone is so well mannered and kind and the dogs coming in just make the playgroup even more of a pleasure. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">And now!... drum roll please...</span><br />
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Paddington joined playgroup a little while back and he is a great addition. He's a mellow dude who will play here and there, but mostly enjoys roaming about, starting the occasional pee war, and hanging out in "dog fort". He's a no nonsense type of guy, but underneath that aloof exterior is a heart of gold and a super affectionate demeanor. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgImqNOM9UGMDgSXtwnVfDfz9twyndegUl7M63q1CL-Pi50o8OuOWoXdCPcIWVlmd9oBYrXkwcpneLg9lCgu4yNzj1-wk3fejV09_bQNdHQ6zLibLQ0wqeDkc2fcMyWhtEm-8Q_VygPEPRw/s1600/IMG-20120831-00686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgImqNOM9UGMDgSXtwnVfDfz9twyndegUl7M63q1CL-Pi50o8OuOWoXdCPcIWVlmd9oBYrXkwcpneLg9lCgu4yNzj1-wk3fejV09_bQNdHQ6zLibLQ0wqeDkc2fcMyWhtEm-8Q_VygPEPRw/s400/IMG-20120831-00686.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't worry Paddington, you constant adoration will be our little secret. Until I blog about it anyway...</td></tr>
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Next up is little Henry. Last week was his first week in playgroup and I was a little leery. Sometimes very young puppies can disrupt a group of adults with their endless puppy antics, but Henry is fitting in so perfectly it's unbelievable. He's great at respecting boundaries and watches the others for cues and he is a champion player. He, Anna and Riggins are like the three Stooges, running around with each other having the time of their lives. I am truly enjoying Henry and I am so glad I gave him a chance. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Henry: Too cool for school, but never too cool for playgroup.</td></tr>
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<br />Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-45544296384529542342012-09-01T09:47:00.002-04:002012-09-01T09:53:12.842-04:00The grass sometimes is always greenerAnother one of our best players has moved on to a life with large grassy backyards and a freedom that simply isn't found this close to the city. It's funny, because when I say best player, I mean <i>best player. </i>Black Jack is one of those guys who is always up for a good time. He's the "I'm in" guy. Whenever anyone wanted to romp, all they had to do was look in Black Jack's <i>general direction</i> and he was ready to go. He will be sorely missed by us all, but most of all to those of us who were in constant need of a good hard romp about the yard. We have been assured we will see him again for things like boarding purposes and I for one am looking forward to that time.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Did someone say <i>let's go outside and play</i>?! </td></tr>
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<b>As for other breaking news on the Happy Dog front,</b> there is now a new fence that helps keep the more active merrymaking to itself until it becomes more of a dull roar. <br />
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That orange construction fence was just so... Let's put it like this: I'm not even putting a before picture, that's how much I didn't like it and I don't feel like you should be subjected to it's ugliness. There, I said it. And of course there was the occasional bump by a large body that quite literally snapped the posts. They were old and thin, and serious horseplay does nothing good to old wooden fence posts. So up went the other and I have to say, as much as it was a heap of hard work, I like it. I no longer need to be worried about any type of destruction caused by the simple action of leaning too hard and they no longer have to listen to me fret over something silly. That's a win/win in my book. Unbridled, laughter inducing fun is so much better than the type of fun where someone keeps saying "careful now, come on now, over here, no no now, play over here you guys..." wouldn't you agree?Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-3334998373168765992012-07-08T09:27:00.001-04:002012-07-08T09:33:09.825-04:00This isn't goodbye<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am truly feeling a little emotional while I enter this blog post. Some of our clients are moving (or have moved) away and I am surprised by how effected I am. Now don't get me wrong here - I get emotional after dropping anyone off after a long stay with us. I get attached and I am not ashamed to say so. I would rather it be this way to be honest. It shows me just how much the pets mean to me. The day I stop getting a little choked up, is the day I stop providing pet care. That said, I don't see that day coming up any time in the near future. I love what I do and the emotion is a huge part of it. There is no passion without some kind of emotion right?</div>
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What is ridiculous is that I know I will still be used for boarding and other things that come up along the way that I can provide for. Still. I have known some of these dogs for years. It's like a friend moving away. Scratch that - it <i>is</i> a friend moving away. You know you'll see them again, and you're happy they are moving on to a new and exciting adventure, but you're going to miss them like crazy.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Mel & Daisy</span></b></td></tr>
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Mel is one of the first dogs I knew through Happy Dog years ago when I first walked for Mike. I have known Mel since he was a young buck and I have loved him since the day I met him. Mel just wants to be loved like crazy and even if you don't have the time to have your hands all over him, he's nearby loving you as hard as he can until you find the time. I got to know Daisy when she joined him a few years back and she is such a feisty, fun little girl. Daisy is super at teamwork and she always knows her job description which usually means she sits super still while you do the work. She is especially great at helping around the office. They are a great pair. The most awesome part of them is how intensely Mel has Daisy's back. He is the ultimate big brother, and she knows it. Nothing will ever happen to Daisy so long as Mel is around. We even refer to him as Super Mel Defender of All Things Innocent. Daisy got the name Daisy Raises Sunshine and it fits her perfectly. They were with me five days a week and I will miss them both tremendously until their next stay with us.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIFC3Su0t3TQaAMhLRoifAduK0gRZw_QyGCOUyosEpgyl2lNcjKBEKlPIiAlO4bhjW4cHvT9pV6tPyurFXPa4FlDbvCl3AFhJCYy-dyEDVrICeXW2KiL5NxfA0PSEsx_y7A5RCZVJkwK4F/s1600/JosieSlats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIFC3Su0t3TQaAMhLRoifAduK0gRZw_QyGCOUyosEpgyl2lNcjKBEKlPIiAlO4bhjW4cHvT9pV6tPyurFXPa4FlDbvCl3AFhJCYy-dyEDVrICeXW2KiL5NxfA0PSEsx_y7A5RCZVJkwK4F/s400/JosieSlats.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Josie</span></b></td></tr>
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Ah Josie Josie Jose. Josie is the perfect little girl. Always so happy and wagging her tail while looking at you with the sweetest expression. She joined us for playgroup every week and to have her go is heart wrenching. I have only known Josie for a couple of years now but I feel like I have known her for much much longer. She's got that personality you immediately click with and feel at ease around no matter the circumstance. I truly miss watching her sunbathe in the yard or romp about in the yard with the bigger dogs. Josie might be on the small side, but man can that girl play hard. I know she's moving on to bigger and better, but there is definitely a huge gap that will be very hard to fill. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">LILY JEAN!</span></b></td></tr>
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When I got the news that Lily Jean was moving, I immediately thought "oh my god, please make this nightmare end" and seriously had to take a moment to collect myself. She is another dog I have known for almost a decade. Lily and I have <i>history </i>people. I have so many pictures of Lily, in so many different places, it's kind of shocking even to me. She's practically Happy Dog's mascot. James lets her ride shotgun with him and that is unheard of. She is right now pressed up against him and he's not moving away. They love each other and it's not surprising. She is the pug that launched a thousand ships, conqueror of the heart, the light that overcomes the darkness by mere existence. Lily Jean <i>radiates. </i>In short, she is the ultimate little dog and anyone who meets her immediately knows it. <br />
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It's like Josie's mom said, this isn't good bye exactly. I know I will see them again, but I want you all to know their absence will not go unnoticed and no one can take their place. Not now, not ever. </div>
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<span id="goog_2052765943"></span><span id="goog_2052765944"></span></div>Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-147262555430653502012-06-23T11:48:00.000-04:002012-06-23T11:48:48.383-04:004th of July (7/4/2012)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #323232; font-family: verdana, geneva; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px;">This is just a reminder that we will be off for the 4th of July. Again, this does not effect boarding dogs. For anyone who ends up needing care, the holiday charge of $20 per scheduled service will apply.</span><br />
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Thanks!</div>Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-47025482194394873682012-06-12T16:14:00.000-04:002012-06-12T16:14:07.359-04:00Meet beautiful Sarita<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz2vCCCPxWmutxRkeVhB4b3sRx5B3yKmLJ_wmQLHH137m3CA4dnWP7-kxN13z1DFsU3yHlb90AQ3CxUdBmYGevOvVNLT-Ud5kr1sYX2vvAJuw5eBfEtSJk3FQFG2r4fW8Ejoge4_7nxEVJ/s1600/IMG_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz2vCCCPxWmutxRkeVhB4b3sRx5B3yKmLJ_wmQLHH137m3CA4dnWP7-kxN13z1DFsU3yHlb90AQ3CxUdBmYGevOvVNLT-Ud5kr1sYX2vvAJuw5eBfEtSJk3FQFG2r4fW8Ejoge4_7nxEVJ/s640/IMG_0002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 13px;">Sarita is a very sweet female hound mix who is looking for a home. She can be shy,but warms up quickly to anyone who has a love for animals. She is a rescue from Puerto Rico and is about eight years old. The woman who rescued her found out that she had been badly abused. She can get frightened in new situations.but with patience, time, and care she will come around to being more relaxed. Loud noises and thunder continue to be a problem for her. By giving her Rescue Remedy for dogs, other flower essences, along with a small amount of zanex, which effectively relaxes her, she calms down over time. She is very happy to be around non-aggressive dogs. Living with another dog or dog friendly cat would be ideal, and / or a quiet home with anyone who loves animals would make her very happy. Her diet now is cooked chicken and rice, which is easy on her stomach. She can probably be introduced to a dog food that has limited ingredients.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaxTHdFfo_cscQbYeATZceBluzyqMDKUrXw6NeVAfwnE_fTwLrKgHt7P_ZEhS8nFZxMO9RI4J6EXQUpqUrYrLQSqGPt9AjKVQ4bqPOdevSJaPyVZcFIX2lI0LdOCvageSK3fGLqt5z4hWF/s1600/IMG_0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaxTHdFfo_cscQbYeATZceBluzyqMDKUrXw6NeVAfwnE_fTwLrKgHt7P_ZEhS8nFZxMO9RI4J6EXQUpqUrYrLQSqGPt9AjKVQ4bqPOdevSJaPyVZcFIX2lI0LdOCvageSK3fGLqt5z4hWF/s640/IMG_0011.JPG" width="640" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"> </span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJEJchZC2HVYQl8lN9tiXlEXAEpcDXImaYu_8jRzixyGp1tl3bBZwvRPofqOTuzxQwmTP5K2anB8QpSAkPfNraqHQRb7wrHmerUY-oktL_4TKB9HB2x20H3DzaTCOVonBoHVsIjSYlR26/s1600/IMG_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJEJchZC2HVYQl8lN9tiXlEXAEpcDXImaYu_8jRzixyGp1tl3bBZwvRPofqOTuzxQwmTP5K2anB8QpSAkPfNraqHQRb7wrHmerUY-oktL_4TKB9HB2x20H3DzaTCOVonBoHVsIjSYlR26/s640/IMG_0008.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 13px;">If you or someone you know is looking for a nice calm girl like Sarita, please get in touch with me and let me know. Thanks!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-45751921791195610382012-05-31T21:27:00.000-04:002012-05-31T21:30:29.057-04:00Fun in the yardFINALLY! <br />
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Wait, let me back up a little here so you understand this exasperated proclamation...<br />
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For quite some time now I have been trying to get video of the dogs, any of them, playing in the yard. They would begin but as soon as I took out my phone and turned on the video, everyone would stop playing and wander around all bored or cram themselves up on the porch. Didn't matter where I was standing or what I was doing. I thought it was my body language, so I changed it. I tried sneaking video from up on the porch, standing in the yard amongst them all natural like, standing on my head on a Thursday before the hawk cries thrice and the meat man comes to market, without making eye contact, without facing in their direction. It was ridiculous. <br />
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Well not anymore!! I AM VIDEO VICTORIOUS!! And this means you are as well!<br />
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Sorry about the grainy quality, I was so excited to get video, I never even thought to grab a better quality machine.<br />
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Enjoy.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxYAYxSVn_f9azlfG7qpnPIIsmf5X0iNRSSQ5L3NzndiW-jwqglMVxFv5E5YZFNu4iAuE8_r5P7FGgb_1ApGw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-86180865064017353692012-05-22T19:49:00.003-04:002012-05-22T19:50:30.306-04:00Memorial Day (5/28/2012)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana, geneva; font-size: 13px;">This is just a reminder that we will be off for Memorial Day. Again, this does not effect boarding dogs. For anyone who ends up needing care, the holiday charge of $20 per scheduled service will apply.</span><br />
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Thanks!</div>Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-21768965742406362002012-05-20T14:28:00.004-04:002012-05-20T14:28:46.331-04:00Pet Health and PoliciesHello! I thought it would be helpful to clarify some things that some of you might not be aware of due to implementation of policies. From now on I will be posting this type of information here so it is easily found if a future reference is needed, and as always I will send out an email alerting you to any new information entered. <br />
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<b><u>How Your Pets Health Affects Happy Dog</u></b></div>
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Much in the same way you would keep yourself home from work, or your child home from school, if he/she was showing the following symptoms, please use the same discretion when regarding your dog(s).<br />
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<ul>
<li>vomiting</li>
<li>diarrhea</li>
<li>excessive mucus from the eyes and nose</li>
<li>coughing and/or sneezing</li>
<li>any sudden or serious changes in behavior (lethargy, appetite, signs of pain, etc.)</li>
<li>parasites of any kind</li>
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A lot of people are surprised to find out that canine illnesses (much like human illnesses) are highly communicable through regular close quarter contact such as playing or riding in the car together. So in the interest of keeping everyones pets as healthy and happy as possible, we would appreciate you letting us know as soon as possible if you notice any of those symptoms.</div>
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Any signs of limping, lameness or any type of motor coordination issues should immediately be brought to our attention so we can address the correct course of action.</div>
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<b><u>24 Hour Cancellation Policy</u></b></div>
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We are aware that life can get hectic and no one has 100% control over the events of their day, however, we ask that you give us at least 24 hours notice for cancellation of any previously scheduled service. Unfortunately, in the event of last minute cancellations you will be charged 50% of the scheduled service. This is partly due to a limited capacity to overnights and playgroups and time constraints. Our playgroups, overnights and walks are scheduled in a way to provide optimal customer service to avoid untimely pick up/drop off, shortened walks and/or overbooking.</div>
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I am aware a lot of these policies are new, as in the past it was pretty free form, so here is a link to Happy Dog's policies page: <a href="http://www.happydogonline.com/Happy_Dog/Policies.html" target="_blank">Happy Dog Policies</a> At your convenience, please take a moment to look them over, because no one likes surprises. Unless it's a birthday party. :)</div>
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As always any questions, comment or concerns can be directed to me via telephone or email:</div>
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(617) 448 2310</div>
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joy@happydogonline.com</div>Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-79632506420905670692012-05-12T07:50:00.000-04:002012-05-12T07:50:11.044-04:00Progress!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We have been busy little bees over here at the Happy Dog homestead and the progress has been quite noticeable. I think you are all going to like this as much as I do. </div>
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The yard. It needed a bit of an overhaul and really, what is better than a tidy yard? There are people who devote the entire rest of their lives to the perfect yard. I've met them. It's intense. Now don't get me wrong, we're not the all crabgrass and clover must die types but we do enjoy seeing a pretty little yard when we step outside with everybody. There is still a little ways to go but we have accomplished some of the most important aspects. </div>
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After a little discussion, we decided we wanted the fencing whiter and higher. As I can be pretty neurotic and give everything far too much credit, I wanted a fence that never made me question its' purpose, which we all know is to keep things in or out. We both wanted something that when we looked out at it, it made our light sensitive eyes pleased with what was being taken in.</div>
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We chose lattice because it's inexpensive with a decent amount of strength to it. Also, we have started some seeds of flowering vines and the vines will love weaving in and out of the lattice. Sunflowers are coming up in the back right corner. We're hoping it will be an explosion of color at some point.</div>
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Side Note: While looking over these pictures, you are ignoring the lawn. It has been seeded so I'm hoping grass will fill in the bald spots very soon. In fact, I was out there this morning checking out all the new growth! :)</div>
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Now, before we get started I would love to be all I'm the champion of fence builders! But credit must be given where credit is due, and Anthony has handled most of the installation and painting. He's a machine. While I was out caring for pets, he was home taking care of business.</div>
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The following pictures are before and after with a little explanation. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZNk1YSLxFIyW25WiJttga1rnV4gL_Tmoz_T4g-RZ1paaOgeutbn8WAQ7-fPvCwefGCVqugQlT6wWAHkH4XxBX0yebLtWLoKbaqQEtB3NWHOXlmyu3-HVCmEqb93O7lhV70mxqAOxnAFZ/s1600/Before+Back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZNk1YSLxFIyW25WiJttga1rnV4gL_Tmoz_T4g-RZ1paaOgeutbn8WAQ7-fPvCwefGCVqugQlT6wWAHkH4XxBX0yebLtWLoKbaqQEtB3NWHOXlmyu3-HVCmEqb93O7lhV70mxqAOxnAFZ/s400/Before+Back.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back fence. Looking directly off the back porch</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vKRelK7nVJ0wwBxIKIO0y4DtwEBkM-XmtFBLsmGtfg95T0a4AiX9Nj_mOEJTQy5OiY72Yjim1J8Ke5OzzMObBIt2_dlYwpuhm0IBMcMwz3UlCrsAQyMovm88f8DHgLQ7MSM9Rd2gKMBi/s1600/After+Back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vKRelK7nVJ0wwBxIKIO0y4DtwEBkM-XmtFBLsmGtfg95T0a4AiX9Nj_mOEJTQy5OiY72Yjim1J8Ke5OzzMObBIt2_dlYwpuhm0IBMcMwz3UlCrsAQyMovm88f8DHgLQ7MSM9Rd2gKMBi/s400/After+Back.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back fence. Painted and lattice added to the top</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5B1a1wAG0ThF8fpXyXkacpkqblumXpnSeD4xGN0ku-Zr1kJrYlMfhWKKPpPwF6io1IhSjZvF_UQA9TWVyVF6RL5NShQK6Hpako2k6nbNN3jB5s8gVwYc6PNxj7_ZOlg8Ohq_5SKzQbWU/s1600/Before+Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5B1a1wAG0ThF8fpXyXkacpkqblumXpnSeD4xGN0ku-Zr1kJrYlMfhWKKPpPwF6io1IhSjZvF_UQA9TWVyVF6RL5NShQK6Hpako2k6nbNN3jB5s8gVwYc6PNxj7_ZOlg8Ohq_5SKzQbWU/s400/Before+Front.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front left side fence. Looking from the back to the front, opposite the gate.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsJwhzO3dTTXOH-As7MK7tg2M4GgKJYAUbEInGkgQxSY2qQQEyxGfUqVryUpHFbBke1T_RalgBmyN57fYLJy4-vv9cwtT90p-2MNal4J6We6yhyphenhyphen5CnimQy6o_5QZMoj3J25THhHJfXIbK3/s1600/After+Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsJwhzO3dTTXOH-As7MK7tg2M4GgKJYAUbEInGkgQxSY2qQQEyxGfUqVryUpHFbBke1T_RalgBmyN57fYLJy4-vv9cwtT90p-2MNal4J6We6yhyphenhyphen5CnimQy6o_5QZMoj3J25THhHJfXIbK3/s400/After+Front.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front left side fence. Painted and lattice added<br /><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbJjeW-jCKrrHokrTooSHA5ftYqJbg5rj8wJAE8Pt5imZ2zCXCskoKKqoZTWjokz7mjGpD2rXKlNBUuWw8l-a6EoC_BpfVCcwsFcwFkuSFpMZNJdE_W4_JnMIgjIRe2WQ7lK_Cc82_XrQV/s1600/Before+Side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbJjeW-jCKrrHokrTooSHA5ftYqJbg5rj8wJAE8Pt5imZ2zCXCskoKKqoZTWjokz7mjGpD2rXKlNBUuWw8l-a6EoC_BpfVCcwsFcwFkuSFpMZNJdE_W4_JnMIgjIRe2WQ7lK_Cc82_XrQV/s400/Before+Side.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side fence. To the right as you come in the gate.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiepbaBLrcISlMN7qbI2wm-XdKte-fFX2J7bH2kSeDSeguWvn0iP29OGff5B_Q9DPpIVEyb5jUTR0tskYlwaJyHh5QKR7-hY68C8NUe3dH5pdb63QTON6NX4sRNIDMAawescjzVZDtyrENT/s1600/After+Side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiepbaBLrcISlMN7qbI2wm-XdKte-fFX2J7bH2kSeDSeguWvn0iP29OGff5B_Q9DPpIVEyb5jUTR0tskYlwaJyHh5QKR7-hY68C8NUe3dH5pdb63QTON6NX4sRNIDMAawescjzVZDtyrENT/s400/After+Side.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side fence. Painted, lattice added to the top. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGbm6iGX3TywwQtwScB9gPWb9iQUMjDJ4zopTTwan_XvHkGI07WvGYYnZEuwB12e6uqSMep12Vndvn0uwHm4DLdyChHNtTqB-LHGRTs6yqTP5DkBt4zg546RVJzcN0GGHwnMVjnNzh8f5d/s1600/Before+Side%253ABack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGbm6iGX3TywwQtwScB9gPWb9iQUMjDJ4zopTTwan_XvHkGI07WvGYYnZEuwB12e6uqSMep12Vndvn0uwHm4DLdyChHNtTqB-LHGRTs6yqTP5DkBt4zg546RVJzcN0GGHwnMVjnNzh8f5d/s400/Before+Side%253ABack.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side and back fencing before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIjoL_ar6e4jDXRFjTFgXbHv6BhFmU0IJ4vWnqYZRnKawFZMszQAXk4-M4eGaefMx6fDkHFTnfJBV__rXlYQ34jIvT7RKH2nSM-BvMrNCPPRAtH5oyl67HnatmpVJW1ZbNY_-FPkeo6Yw/s1600/After+Side%253ABack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIjoL_ar6e4jDXRFjTFgXbHv6BhFmU0IJ4vWnqYZRnKawFZMszQAXk4-M4eGaefMx6fDkHFTnfJBV__rXlYQ34jIvT7RKH2nSM-BvMrNCPPRAtH5oyl67HnatmpVJW1ZbNY_-FPkeo6Yw/s400/After+Side%253ABack.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side and back fencing after</td></tr>
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There is a lot more to it, but I believe these to be the pictures that help to show the more obvious progress. I'm pretty psyched about the whole thing because now the dogs can run amok without a second thought from us and that is always more fun, wouldn't you say? </div>Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7909697863345133739.post-45522868314794700432012-04-22T21:05:00.000-04:002012-07-01T18:02:37.127-04:00Introduction<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hey there! Since we know all of you so well I thought it would be a great idea to start this blog off with a little introductory of sorts. It seems only fair. You know a little about me from the website itself, but what is the rest of the story? Who is behind the scenes? And you know what? The people have a right to know!</div>
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I, Joy Higgins, will be the keeper of this here blog so I will begin with me and my canine companions and work my way down the list. Enjoy.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XA8qOi1fI8Fk3lqFJ3rfTVknYBrDt-j5XONlV_jUhYXXVzGtO0YTRCpkyEnbaXT_v4BrZzzmk16r4Ys4Azmsw4N7b2XleJ19-joaFwyfnVpAvLYPOSNp17UbpPkddcmfd8F-_S9UBA_V/s1600/Me+Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XA8qOi1fI8Fk3lqFJ3rfTVknYBrDt-j5XONlV_jUhYXXVzGtO0YTRCpkyEnbaXT_v4BrZzzmk16r4Ys4Azmsw4N7b2XleJ19-joaFwyfnVpAvLYPOSNp17UbpPkddcmfd8F-_S9UBA_V/s320/Me+Blog.jpg" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joy</td></tr>
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I spent most of my childhood on the south shore (Plymouth area) until I moved to the Boston area in my mid teens. As much as I enjoy the solitude and the offering of frequent wooded walks of the suburbs, my true love is city life. It's good to be back.</div>
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I am a dog enthusiast so I feel like I have finally answered my true calling by assuming the ownership of Happy Dog. Ever since getting my first Hamster (Spike) at the age of 6, I have adored animals of all kinds. I have had many different kinds of pets from rats, snakes, an iguana, ferrets to the more typical dogs, cats, fish and birds. I have worked in stables, veterinary offices, shelters, rescues, grooming salons, boarding facilities and dog daycares. I will continue my personal search for knowledge in regards to dog behavior and hope to take classes on behavior in the near future.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVhQhUmN0lz5hyphenhyphenCQYfoVBKxQz062xTkxaWQTIiMfSwmXuFfZP2WQx-mIaJbLxGfAmm_rTMDWAZqaFPMt85KT18zgX0-JUvpEszOYY5ch85hdTCykwBitg1mODYGl7ljuEEBgIqD8RMEXf/s1600/IMG-20110601-00205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVhQhUmN0lz5hyphenhyphenCQYfoVBKxQz062xTkxaWQTIiMfSwmXuFfZP2WQx-mIaJbLxGfAmm_rTMDWAZqaFPMt85KT18zgX0-JUvpEszOYY5ch85hdTCykwBitg1mODYGl7ljuEEBgIqD8RMEXf/s320/IMG-20110601-00205.jpg" width="310" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Jimmy aka Jim aka The James aka Jimminy aka Brother <br />aka Seamus O'Mally aka Oldie One (Kanobie) aka Bro</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Jimmy</span> came into my life at the age of 3 months. I was running a pit bull rescue from my home at the time. Some college kids, who took him in when they found him tied in the woods, realized they couldn't keep up with him. He was a high strung menace. After seeing what a horrible puppy he was and interviewing countless possible owners, I was convinced he'd probably just be found tied up in the woods again. I decided to keep him and work with him and though the first few years were tough, we got through it. I do not regret that decision. We have been together 12 years now and he is just the greatest dog anyone could ask for. We have moved all over, driven across the country numerous times and through it all he has been a steadfast and incredible companion.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFbE3_sD55Yh_MGN5K6tLv2Wj9dvjF143FIoVXk0tJ4ZzfzZeupMPnStPvJ3B_Gbg_Q_43UN5G2G_nYfR9dF1I18hhpIeUpFii9862OTfGquSYOKsc-AF8y2uMKd4BLb_5cuwRb1fga7EX/s1600/IMG-20110601-00207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFbE3_sD55Yh_MGN5K6tLv2Wj9dvjF143FIoVXk0tJ4ZzfzZeupMPnStPvJ3B_Gbg_Q_43UN5G2G_nYfR9dF1I18hhpIeUpFii9862OTfGquSYOKsc-AF8y2uMKd4BLb_5cuwRb1fga7EX/s320/IMG-20110601-00207.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tabitha aka Tabbie aka Tab aka TabTab aka TB aka Pretty Face <br />aka Twinkle Toes aka Sparkle Toes aka Crazy Face aka Ladyfriend</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Tabitha</span> was adopted from a <a href="http://www.adopt-a-bull.com/" target="_blank">Adopt-A-Bull</a> in Tucson AZ at the age of 9 weeks. I was living in Scottsdale at the time and was looking for a friend for the James when I came across her puppy picture on <a href="http://www.petfinder.com/index.html" target="_blank">Pet Finder</a> and instantly fell in love. She may look like a toughie but we recommend you don't go believing the hype and getting all Judgie McJudgster on us. She is one of the most sensitive and polite dogs I have ever met. I really don't think she has a mean bone in her body. Tabitha is now 5 years old and has a couple of accomplishments under her belt. She has accompanied me to elderly homes and has even done some agility. She has always joined James and I on all of our adventures and is a fantastic friend to us both. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1UwflGEFfVdXbYacta9WVuLF4SnA9X8Z3Eb3EVBwB3eL-EEeTgMfjuxubPf4RmEjYo_MWJkjAhIEkFEK3ntHJ_1WrJ0iSDKET0d84EgXDVVFS7pQM1HjGSqI1iWAZo-9KZZU1NDvSDgat/s1600/Herbert+BLOG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1UwflGEFfVdXbYacta9WVuLF4SnA9X8Z3Eb3EVBwB3eL-EEeTgMfjuxubPf4RmEjYo_MWJkjAhIEkFEK3ntHJ_1WrJ0iSDKET0d84EgXDVVFS7pQM1HjGSqI1iWAZo-9KZZU1NDvSDgat/s320/Herbert+BLOG.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Herbert aka Herber Berber aka The Herbs aka Herbie</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Herbert</span> was quite literally rescued from the clutches of death as a dog I was walking almost ate him and then I almost went to give him a little kick off the sidewalk as I assumed he was something that should not be eaten. As he was roaming about on a hot sidewalk without any access to water and the temperature was going to drop a lot that evening, I picked him up and brought him home. He started out in a tupperware container set up but we will soon be moving up in the world to a 55 gallon tank where he will further learn how to hunt. Once he is large enough that everything in the world can't eat him, we will release him into the wild where he belongs. He has a voracious appetite for flies and worms and, as you can see, lies under his basking light like he is playing superman. </div>
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See you next time folks!Happy Doghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07239067543317853346noreply@blogger.com1