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General Category => Home, Lifestyles, Entertainment & Leisure => Topic started by: LisaMarie on January 05, 2010, 05:54:08 PM

Title: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on January 05, 2010, 05:54:08 PM

This thread is dedicated to all things for your fur children. Please feel free to ask your pet questions, share animal stories, or brag about your fur kids here.

Posted on: January 05, 2010, 07:50:46 PM

I found this story on Petfinder today, & found it fascinating. :doggy: :kitty:

http://www.petfinder.com/pet-news/spinning-pesky-pet-hair-into-yarn-one-womans-labo.html

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: Flaricka on January 05, 2010, 06:01:45 PM

Thanks LisaMarie ... I would have loved to see an example of her work.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: GBSfan278 on January 05, 2010, 06:17:02 PM

I couldn't help but notice that this thread was also for bragging about our own fur children. So I thought I'd share a few pictures of my dog (and my aunt's). This is the first picture, taken at Christmas. The back black dog is my own (Yuki), and the front is my aunt's dog Quincy.
Yuki is an 11-yr old Havanese (she'll be 12 on Feb. 1st). She's a pretty darn little cutie, lol. She has unfortunately had 10 teeth pulled over the course of her life (despite being well cared for). As well as, perhaps the most disappointing fact, is that she has cancer. :( My mom took her to the vet a couple weeks before Christmas after she found a lump on her neck & was told later. She's not on any drugs (as she's not suffering at all), and won't be until it seems necessary. Quincy is my aunt's 5 years old Bishon Frise. He's a hyper dog, but still really cute, and a lot of fun.

Spoiler: show

Photo #2 is of just Yuki, on Boxing Day, while having leftover dinner at my aunt's.

Spoiler: show

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on January 05, 2010, 09:14:51 PM

One of my nephews had several long-haired guinea pigs that contributed to one of these yarn projects--he let the woman keep the very small sample as she had never tried guinea pig hair and used it as an exhibit.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on January 31, 2010, 05:29:21 PM

Therapy dogs are amazing creatures. This is a sad story, but shows just how strong a therapy dog's desire to give back is.

http://www.petfinder.com/pet-news/marvelous-marvin-remembering-a-national-pet-thera.html?offset=1

Danny reads to the Karma Dogs at different libraries throughout the year. He participates in the HEARTS program - Helping Encourage All Readers To Succeed. They also work with Autistic children, and participate in Dog Safety programs too. Although their website is not as up-to-date as their Facebook page, I thought I'd provide the link in case anyone was interested in learning more.

http://karmadogs.org/

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: Pariah on February 02, 2010, 12:54:57 PM

I have a zoo here. We currently have 3 wiener dogs, a beagle/shepherd dog, assorted turtles, frogs, fish, lizards, crayfish, snails, and more. I have raised and handled everything from gators and crocs to hamsters and fish. I have been raising turtles for over 30 years. My specialties include turtles, salamanders, and frogs. I have 11 tanks in the room I am sitting in right now, and many more throughout the house.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: Jensweetbabygirl on February 03, 2010, 07:23:36 PM

Hope you guys don't mind, but would like to show off my baby...lol. These pics are of Harley in the sweater that his GrandMa Millie *my mom* made for him for Christmas. The last pic is him saying "Awww mom enough pictures now"...LOL

Spoiler: show

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: GBSfan278 on February 03, 2010, 09:53:29 PM

That's sooo adorable Jen!! He's very handsome in his new sweater. <3

My family (moreso my mom) is doing much better after last Monday. It's been hard on our whole family, but we're doing much better!

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: jm10612 on February 03, 2010, 11:41:03 PM

What a cutie, jens! I had a yorkie (same coloring) and would get another in a second. She was such a huge personality in a tiny little body! Seeing ur luvlie brings back good memories. <3

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on March 21, 2010, 05:52:10 PM

Awwww, he's adorable Jen! :tu:
Posted on: February 04, 2010, 09:35:12 PM

Since winter is only halfway over :( & the weather seems colder than ever, I thought this topic was appropriate. Cold weather care for pets.

http://www.petfinder.com/pet-news/cold-weather-pet-care-keeping-your-animals-safe-i.html?offset=1
Posted on: February 08, 2010, 04:37:11 PM

Don't forget your pets on Valentine's day! <3

http://www.petfinder.com/pet-news/my-furry-valentine-treat-your-pet-to-a-special-va.html
Posted on: February 14, 2010, 10:26:36 AM

Awww, this is a cute way to include your fur children in your wedding.
http://www.petfinder.com/pet-news/more-than-ring-bearers-creative-ways-to-plan-a-pe.html?offset=7

And while you're on your honeymoon....
http://www.petfinder.com/pet-news/ritzy-pet-getaways-kennel-what-kennel-im-going-to.html?offset=9

Some talking cats - soooooo cute!
http://www.zootoo.com/petvideocontest/ifcatscouldtalk/

And an amazing (and lucky) lemur.
http://www.petfinder.com/pet-news/peanut-the-lemur-even-a-break-cant-crack-this-ani.html
Posted on: February 21, 2010, 01:20:42 PM

Handy tips for finding pet-friendly housing:
http://www.petfinder.com/pet-news/pets-welcome-housing-for-the-whole-gang.html?offset=2

Tallest Dog Ever!
http://www.petfinder.com/pet-news/giant-george-snags-tallest-dog-ever-record.html?offset=1

Food safety for pets.
http://www.petfinder.com/pet-news/food-safety-for-pets-treats-every-owner-should-av.html?offset=1
Posted on: February 27, 2010, 11:16:13 PM

Spring has sprung, & this is the time a lot of people think about adopting an animal. Here are some things to think about whether adopting your first fur child or adding to the family.

http://www.petfinder.com/before-pet-adoption/pet-adoption-checklist.html

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: jm10612 on March 21, 2010, 07:44:01 PM

thanks for the tips lisa! <3

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: Poppet121 on March 21, 2010, 08:42:53 PM

okay..i dunno if im postin in the right place but .....
Has anyone got any tips on safely removing "tear stains" from my white boxer puppys eyes? From what i can gather, its just something that happens with white dogs and cats, but its made worse by a colouring or something in their food.(beet or something). ive tried a product by johnson & johnson which hasnt worked. Any home remedies?

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on March 21, 2010, 09:49:24 PM

I found a big article on tear stains which mostly applies to small dogs, but provides a lot of useful information here:

http://www.lowchensaustralia.com/grooming/grooming4.htm

I copied & pasted their home remedy tips here:

CAUTION: When using ANY bleaching agents or Boracic Acid,
take extreme care NOT to get any in the eyes at all!

Tear Stain Removal

Tear stain removal has become much easier with various products now on the market just for this purpose.
There are tear stain home remedies using mixtures of milk of magnesia, corn starch and peroxide, or bleach (usually hydrogen peroxide) used for human hair. However, if you were not to mix these properly, use precisely the right strength of each ingredient, and apply them safely, you could potentially harm your dog. No solution should ever be splashed into the pet's eye, or allowed to wick through the facial hair into the eye area. Read and follow all instructions very carefully.
Keep in mind that you are treating the eye area of your pet and you can harm their sensitive areas. A full amount of caution and concern must be exercised whenever you use any product or mixture near eyes.
Keeping tear stains at minimum is more of a concern for dogs that are shown, and for the dog not being shown, taking steps to safely minimize the condition should be satisfying enough rather than complete elimination. Consult your veterinarian with any questions you may have.

Eye Care Tips for Tear Staining

Measure equal parts Boric Powder, Baby Powder, mix together with Milk of Magnesia to smooth paste. You can make up a jar full. Apply to affected area with a soft toothbrush, allow to dry then brush off. If badly stained use a few drops of 10% peroxide in paste.

Make a paste with corn starch and peroxide, apply with a small toothbrush, leave overnight and remove it with warm water or peroxide in the morning.

Optrex Eye Wash - Clean around the eye area with cotton pads moistened with Optrex (contains Boric Acid and Witch Hazel).

Mix equal amounts of Cornstarch and Boracic Acid Powder and pat gently onto the hair being extremely careful not to get any into the eyes or the mouth. The powder mixture will bleach the white whilst absorbing the stains.

Add one tablespoon Boracic Acid to a cup of boiling water, mix well. Place several cotton swabs into a plastic container. Pour the cooled solution over the swabs and seal the container. Use one swab daily to clean away tear and face staining. Make up a new mix at least once weekly.

Use equal amounts of Cornstarch and Boracic Acid, mix well, then add sufficient water to make a paste. Carefully apply the paste to the stained areas, then allow to dry. Once dry, brush off and wipe the face with a clean cloth.

Here's a whole blog dedicated to this issue. Among the more interesting options are wiping the eyes with a wet washcloth, changing the dog's diet, & wiping the eyes with distilled water:

http://www.dogforums.com/4-dog-grooming-forum/2607-remove-dog-s-tear.html

Great question, & this is the perfect thread in which to post it! Hope this helps. If anyone else can help with this issue, please post as well. <3

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: Poppet121 on March 22, 2010, 07:19:09 AM

Thx for the info Lisa. It was interesting stuff. Tho i dont feel comfortable using peroxide around his eyes, i'll definately give the optrex a go.
Thx again ;)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: jm10612 on March 22, 2010, 11:13:09 AM

White hair is indeed hard to keep clean, but even just a matter of keeping the hair groomed around her/his eyes can help a great deal. I see diet mentioned and i have seen a change in dogs that have a better diet. Good luck poppet! <3

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: SusyQ151 on March 28, 2010, 07:01:53 AM

Hubby and I adopted a dog on Friday. She is a pure bred German Shepherd named Cleo. She is 3 1/2 years old and is slightly underweight at 54 lbs. She had been surrendered to the Humane Society because her owner had some health issues which prevented him from being able to care for Cleo. She is very much a "people" dog and prefers hubby to anyone else. She doesn't mind our grandson but usually ignores him.

I have take a few pictures of Cleo, however, I can't get the pictures to load onto the computer. I'm not sure what the problem is. Our memory stick has loaded the pictures to the computer before, but doesn't want to now. Once I figure out a solution to this, I will post some pictures.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on March 28, 2010, 07:44:44 AM

Awww, congrats Susy! She sounds beautiful, can't wait to see the pix. :tu: :)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: Lguy1967 on March 28, 2010, 08:02:28 AM

Congrats Susy! Cleo sounds like a great dog. I cannot wait to see her picture.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: SusyQ151 on March 30, 2010, 02:19:57 PM

Here are a couple of pictures of Cleo:

Spoiler: show

She is settling in, however, she has quite a bit of anxiety. She follows us from room to room and, as of yet, will not stay by herself. So while hubby is at work, I am tied to the house unless I take her with me.

She loves to play with her toys and her appetite has returned. The whole shelter experience was quite an ordeal for her. She has adopted the basement sofa as her bed. Since she will not stay in a room alone, hubby has been sleeping in the basement with her. Since she has claimed the sofa, he has been sleeping in the recliner.

Tonight, we are going to see how she does sleeping in our room. I don't care for our dogs sleeping with us because I am such a light sleeper. However, hubby isn't getting his proper rest sleeping in the basement recliner and Cleo won't tolerate being left alone.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on April 05, 2010, 02:46:26 PM

Awww, she's beautiful! :tu: :) :ohyea:

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: FreddieB on April 05, 2010, 03:08:03 PM

Congrats again on making Cleo part of your family. She's very pretty. And good luck - I'm sure she'll gain a sense of security the longer she stays with you. Does she have a big doggie pillow? You could put it beside your bed, then when she feels comfortable there you could move it elsewhere.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on April 11, 2010, 09:00:12 PM

Most of the regular Socialites have heard about my cat Chase, & his pic is displayed in the Gallery for all to see, however, I thought I'd talk about my other animals this week. Unfortunately, my camera could not properly capture the true beauty of the fish

This is the newest addition, Raven. He's a Beta fish with a black head & Purple body & fins. Saw him at Petco last week & couldn't resist this fish in my favorite football team's colors. 8)

Spoiler: show

Tiffany's Beta fish was a beautiful Royal Blue when she got him about 4 years ago, hence his name, Blue. I couldn't get a good pic of him, this was the best one. He's still mostly blue with a bit of green on his fins as he ages. RIP Blue. He passed away at the beginning of May. :'(

Spoiler: show

Tiff also has an African Dwarf frog, but I don't think she ever gave it a name. This is a pic of the frog looking at it's reflection on the side of it's tank.

Spoiler: show

Danny has 2 Hermit Crabs, Sharky & Jewel. Sharky has a shark painted on it's shell, & Jewel looks like it has a ruby on the back of it's shell.

Spoiler: show

Please share your scaly & slimy critters here as well. <3
Posted on: April 05, 2010, 05:09:35 PM

Lots of great training tips for dogs & cats located here:

http://www.petfinder.com/pet-training

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: jm10612 on April 12, 2010, 12:03:01 AM

Now that temps are warming up, i thought this article would be of interest to our pet caretakers:

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/hot-weather-tips.html

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on May 01, 2010, 02:06:16 PM

Earth-friendly pets?!?

http://www.zootoo.com/petnews/earthdayforpets10waysforyourpe-1579

This is too cute - a hamster derby. :hahaha:

http://www.petfinder.com/pet-news/calling-all-hamsters-its-derby-time.html
Posted on: April 25, 2010, 02:27:38 PM

Enter to win a Cat Owner Prize Pack fron Arm & Hammer here:

http://www.petfinder.com/contest/pick-of-the-litter

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: suebird3 on May 01, 2010, 03:34:01 PM

My husband and I have several birds (2 parent Sun Conures. with 4 babies left of 6), 3 Nanday Conures, and a black and tan tri-colour 13 inch Beagle.

Hubby had a Belgian Shepard as a kid (Turvuren), and wouldn't you know the Beagle has glommed onto him?! Knowing my luck, if we'd have gotten a Belgian, that dog would have glommed onto me.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on May 15, 2010, 03:37:08 PM

After wishing for a dog for many, many years, & seriously thinking about it for a quite few months, I finally felt like it was the right time to add a dog to the family. We adopted him this afternoon from the Maryland SPCA. They were calling him Big Daddy, but we changed his name to Roscoe Alexander. He is a 4 year old Chihuahua mix & the paperwork says he weighs 18 lbs - a bit overweight for his size. Chase is not too thrilled at the moment, but we are keeping them separated & taking things slowly. He & Chase are about the same height, which is good. Without further ado, meet Roscoe:

Spoiler: show

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: Lguy1967 on May 15, 2010, 04:06:04 PM

Awww, Lisa....he is so cute! I am sure Chase & Roscoe will become the best of buds. :)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: GBSfan278 on May 15, 2010, 05:26:52 PM

What cute pets that everyone has!! Susy, Cleo looks like a sweetheart & I hope she will eventually adjust to being on her own. It just takes time & some trust... so hopefully she will adapt.

Congratulations LisaMarie! What a cutie, I hope that he & Chase will become good friends. :)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: FLCruise7 on May 15, 2010, 06:30:53 PM

Aww Lisa - he's adorable!! Good luck with the "getting acquainted" time!

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: SusyQ151 on May 16, 2010, 03:13:33 AM

LisaMarie, Roscoe looks really sweet. Good luck with your new addition. Has Roscoe shown any interest in Chase?

GBS, sadly, we did leave Cleo alone for 1 1/2 hours on Mother's Day so hubby could take me to supper. We left her in the rec room, where all her toys are and a nice comfy sofa, but she damaged the trim around the door trying to get out. She was mighty happy to see us when we got home. So I don't think we will be doing that again anytime soon.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on May 16, 2010, 08:45:09 AM

Yikes Susy, sorry to hear that. Hopefully Cleo will learn to behave while you're gone soon.

Roscoe has shown a little bit of interest in Chase & Chase is still wondering "Why that mutt here & when is he leaving my kingdom?" Roscoe slept on the couch with Tiffany last night with his leash attached. Since Chase sleeps in my bed with me, this worked very well. Roscoe only had "Accidents" when we left him alone in the kitchen. I'm thinking he thinks he's paying us back for restricting his movement. As was suggested to us by a volunteer at the SPCA, we are keeping him on the leash at all times when he's roaming around the house. Although I'm not sure I really like the idea of using a crate, we do have one courtesy of a neighbor whose dog outgrew it. I'm thinking that he will need to use it while we're out so he's not going potty inside while we're not here.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: jm10612 on May 16, 2010, 10:01:34 AM

Susy and Lisa,
Both ur dogs will benefit from crate training. Crate training dogs is a positive thing.
It is excellent for separation anxiety and for potty training (as well as other benefits)
Ive used it on all my dogs, even the ones that have been severely abused and they eventually go in on thier own. you just have to be consistant. One thing tho, it shouldnt be used as a punishment. Your dogs will look to this as a safe place, and it is.

Here's a link about it:
http://www.inch.com/~dogs/cratetraining.html

Good Luck!

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on May 16, 2010, 03:00:06 PM

My border collie, Flash, came to me because the kids in her first home got over-excited and abusive. She was four days away from the breeder and had been using a crate. I spent most of the first day and night working on potty training--which went very easily--and was getting ready for bed myself when I found that she had dragged her towel out of the crate and was asleep a few feet away. I didn't try to get her into the crate and even though I kept it set up for another month, she never went back inside; nor did she use the bed pad from the crate, just my towels. I wonder if the crate had bad memories for her. I've never had any separation problems with her and all aspects of training were simple since she loves to learn things.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on May 16, 2010, 07:25:24 PM

We familiarized Roscoe with the crate today, put him in it & left for about 1/2 hour today. He started barking when we left & had escaped the crate & was barking loudly when we returned. I'm rather worried about tomorrow, as he will be alone from 8:30-2:30. between all of our schedules. I'll most likely keep him in the kitchen, as that would be a really long time in the crate, but hope that he will not bark the whole time. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on May 16, 2010, 09:12:28 PM

It may be difficult since you and Roscoe are just getting acquainted, so to speak. One person I know gives his dog a large soup bone, while another always has one radio station playing and that helps keep her dog quiet when she's gone.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: suebird3 on May 17, 2010, 07:22:04 AM

We have a metal crate for our pooch. We leave the door open for the most part, so he can 'come and go'. He HAS put himself in there at times. The only time we lock the door is when I am sleeping, and husband is working over. I work 11 p-7-a, and husband works 7-3. If he is working until 7 pm (with about an hour drive home...) I'd like to get some sleep. Shadow can be a bit pesty. :P

On another note, we'd taken him to the local Dog Park, and some ignorant fool's dog attacked him. Guy didn't even ask how our dog was! Shadow has 7 staples, and 2 or 3 scratches, and is surprisingly doing quite well/very little pain. We did let the County Preserve police know, and they ARE on the look out for offending pet/owner.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on May 17, 2010, 10:44:52 AM

Yikes, sorry to hear that Sue! I hope they find the idiot & make him pay Shadow's medical expenses.

I took today off, as I didn't want to worry about him barking all day long. Part of the adoption contract requires me to take Roscoe to the vet within 7 days of adoption for a checkup. I was concerned about a lump next to his right eye & the way both eyes seem to water a lot too. The SPCA staff also said to look out for kennel cough, which I thought he may be starting with (he is), so we went to see the doc today. I also asked about the barking issue while I was there, & told the vet that he barks if he's in the kitchen with the gate up & I'm on the other side (where he can see me) using the desktop. The barking gets worse if I walk away. The vet suggested spraying Roscoe with water when he barks. This seemed to work after a few squirts, & I let him out when he was quiet. We are making a bit of progress - I'm in the dining room & he's in the living room by himself with the tv on. Thanks for the radio idea Shock, I may try that too.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: billthedog082 on May 17, 2010, 11:49:50 AM

Sue, I hope your doggie doesn't suffer too much while the healing is taking place. Very good luck to Shadow!

I have been very lucky with crate training... Bill put up quite the fuss for the first few nights, but he was 8 weeks old, and had just been taken from his mom. Come to think of it, he put up quite a fuss at PetsMart when we went to pick up some toys for him. But he learned early to love his nyla bones, and that keeps him busy for hours, still. Good luck with Roscoe, Lisa, it's as big an adjustment for him as for you. And can get SUPER frustrating. I hope everything goes well with his health and he learns to go with the flow in his new home soon.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: suebird3 on May 18, 2010, 09:43:16 AM

Thanks, folks! Shadow is presently outside, being a 'baked beagle'. I figure he may as well, seeing as I work tonight, and am not sure when husband will be home (may work over...). So....pooch goes into crate.

Many of the friends we have made at the dog park are pretty well pee'd off. We usually go about 9-ish (well, I go on my weekends off...) The word is going out to other owners, and while I am sure the owner will NOT show up anytime real soon, I am sure that he WILL be found.

I would add a picture of him, but don't know how. :P

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on May 23, 2010, 03:14:55 PM

When we adopted Roscoe, there was a tag on his paperwork that said he will be featured in the SPCA's 2011 Orioles calendar. I came across this picture of Roscoe & Miguel Tejada while checking out the Maryland SPCA's Facebook site:

Spoiler: show

We have made tremendous strides on the barking front this past week, & I wanted to share some of the bark control options out there. PetSmart carries several products from PetSafe (www.petsafe.net) that can be used for a variety of training needs.

Spray collars - This is what I was looking for, but couldn't find one in Roscoe's size or wait for one to be shipped from the website:
http://www.petsafe.net/Products/Bark-Control/Spray.aspx

Static collars - This is what I ended up getting after being assured by a friend of Tiffany's who works at PetSmart & has used this on her own dog that it is perfectly safe:
http://www.petsafe.net/Products/Bark-Control/Static/Bark-Control-Collar.aspx

Ultrasonic devices that activate when the dog barks. They have different models for indoor & outdoor use. I bought the one for indoor use:
http://www.petsafe.net/Products/Bark-Control/Ultrasonic/Ultrasonic-Bark-Control-System.aspx

The ultrasonic device did not do much by itself the 1st day, but the instructions do say that it can take up to 2 weeks to work. I am using this along with the static collar, & we have not heard a peep out of him when we leave or as we return for the past 2 days. Roscoe has decided that he prefers to wait for us in Danny's window, but as long as he's quiet that's fine with me. (Chase [my cat] has been greeting us at the door when we come home since we adopted him. Lol.)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: billthedog082 on May 23, 2010, 07:06:00 PM

That's great news about the barking situation, Lisa. The doggie seems to be settling in nicely. And famous too!!! People all over Baltimore must be saying, "Who's that with Roscoe?"

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: Jguy1964 on May 24, 2010, 06:46:17 AM

I happened upon this while looking for a recipe for Lisa.... Thought I would share it. Its from Martha Stewart's "Best Buddies Photo Contest"...

http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/best-buddies-photo-contest-2010

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: suebird3 on May 31, 2010, 08:22:08 AM

I thought I should give everyone an update on Shadow after his attack. He got his staples out Saturday (his 2nd birthday), and he is healed pretty well. We had a party at the dog park yesterday, and guess who showed up while my husband was bringing in the table and treats!? Yep, the guy with the offending dog. I might add that the guy was looking over his shoulder all the way out of the park. Guess he's sweating a bit.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on May 31, 2010, 04:00:48 PM

Happy Birthday Shadow! :doggy: :happybirthday: Glad to hear that he's doing well, & that he has so many friends at the dog park. I hope the negligent owner steps in a big pile of poop. 8)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: suebird3 on June 01, 2010, 03:05:17 PM

Thank you, Lisamarie! Shadow sends some licks and kisses your way, thanking you also.

The 'puppy patrol' showed up, and we got necessary info to her. The guy will have more than dog poo to deal with, and that is a fact.

Dog is spoiled! Got presents and treats, and gave out stuff, too. Vanilla ice cream went over well with everyone.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on June 20, 2010, 11:28:24 AM

June is Adopt-A-Shelter-Cat-Month, & Petfinder.com is asking everyone to vote for their favorite kitties. They are all soooo cute & up for adoption.

http://www.petfinder.com/whiskers-awards
Posted on: June 07, 2010, 10:50:28 PM

"Awww, how cute! What kind of dog is he?" That's how people greet me when I'm out & about with Roscoe. All I can tell them is that he's mixed Chihuahua, but other than that I really don't know. He's bigger than your average Chuhuahua, weighing in at 16.5 lbs. I'm thinking Dachsund, as his body is rather long, & larger Dachunds can weigh 25 lbs or more. Others have said German Shepherd, Rotwiler, Corgi, Pug, Mini Pincher, & Beagle. His Vet didn't even venture a guess. Does anyone have a guess as to which breeds make up my Roscoe? (Click the spoiler for pics)

Spoiler: show

While shopping at Petco a few weeks ago, I discovered a DNA test for dogs. It was a bit expensive, $69.99 to be exact, however, they do keep his info on file as ID to be used in case he gets lost. Results are supposed to be available within 2 weeks from the time this company receives the sample. Tiff & I swabbed Roscoe's mouth today & mailed it off. I will share the results when we receive them. Here is the link to Petco's website featuring a test similar to the one I bought (same company):

http://www.petco.com/product/110218/BioPet-DNA-Breed-Identification.aspx?CoreCat=OnSiteSearch

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on June 25, 2010, 04:50:58 PM

I sorta have a cat now. She first showed up a week ago last Monday when I was coming down with my cold and too medicated to feel any allergy. Flash has always been cat-friendly and Mildred (she just looks like it!) took to Flash as well. I put up signs and a paper ad but she had the look of a stray so on this past Monday I took her to my vet who said she is 8 or 9 months old and a bit mal-nourished but otherwise ok. I took the liberty of having her spayed and she spends her time in some shrubs near my garage--not a house cat. My neighbors love her and will take her if she ever decides to be an indoor cat.

I do not do photos online, but Mildred is a leggy young tortoise shell, black with a few red specks and pale gold eyebrows that give her a quizical look. She is very friendly with me and never hestated to let me pick her up or hold her, so I imagine she knows how allergic I am to cats. :2funny:

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on July 04, 2010, 10:11:37 AM

Congrats Shock! :)

Roscoe's DNA results came back on Thursday. What a surprise! No wonder he thinks he's a big dog. I just hope his Daddy was the Chihuahua. :o

Spoiler: show

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: GBSfan278 on July 04, 2010, 10:30:15 AM

Congrats Shock & wow LisaMarie!! Might be less than 10%, but Newfoundlands are huge dogs & well... little dog syndrome is popular, lol. Trust me, Yuki was like that... thought she was the biggest, meanest thing on our block!! Interesting mix though LisaMarie.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on July 04, 2010, 12:22:44 PM

That's interesting, Lisa; I would have thought some corgi there on looks alone.

With the weather back in the 90's, I had planned to try getting Mildred in the house, but all my guests kept her in hiding yesterday. So far she had been camping in some shrubs near my garage and I had put a litter box in a lightweight wooden crate that she took to pretty well; anyway at 3 am this morning I got one nephew to help me carry the crate to an old storm/root cellar that's in the open, but still close to the garage. I never use it and as of now, Mildred looks settled in; it's cool, even with the door cracked for her to go in and out and I am thinking about getting someone to put a cat-flap there.

Last Sunday I talked to a farmer who lives nearby and he said that Mildred was part of a feral litter he had seen around. He raises pheasants and exotic chickens so cats are a problem and he shoots any that prowl on his land (my Father did this as well :(). At least I know she is not someone's pet. At the moment, she gets along with Flash, my young neighbor and me.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: FLCruise7 on July 04, 2010, 07:42:46 PM

Wow - I think I've seen everything now!! Imagine that - DNA testing for dogs! Very interesting though. I guess those pure-breeds that you see in the dog shows would only have a listing for Level 1 - anything on a lower level & they'd probably be banned! ;D

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: SusyQ151 on July 05, 2010, 09:28:29 AM

Good luck with your cat Shock. Hopefully she will stay away from the farmers land.

Wow Lisa Marie, that is quite a pedigree Roscoe has.

Cleo was providing the entertainment at our house yesterday. Here are a few pictures of her playing with the water sprinkler. She was quite upset when we turned the sprinkler off. ;D

Spoiler: show

Cleo is the first dog we've had that wasn't part husky and therefore the only one who would play in/with water. The two husky crosses we had would go out of their way to avoid water.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: suebird3 on August 09, 2010, 12:59:53 PM

We have possible 'good' news about the jerk who's dog attacked Shadow. My husband (nanday1967) and I were unable to go to the Dog Park last weekend (the 31st and 1st), but went this weekend; one of our friends there says she got the license plate of the offending dogs' owner, and we are awaiting the e-mail.

'Mooch' is doing quite well, and while he loathes taking a bath, has found the joys of splashing through standing water.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: nanday1967 on August 12, 2010, 06:13:38 PM

We also have 'several' birds, but Shadow is more like our 'kid' than a pet. What a dog! (And he has MY eyes!)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on August 14, 2010, 09:51:01 PM

Susy, Cleo is adorable! Glad she's starting to feel at home with you. Suebird & Nanday, I really hope they are able to prosecute the offending dog owner, & that Shadow is doing so well.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on August 15, 2010, 12:28:40 AM

Mildred has spent the last month living in my detached garage, sleeping on the back seat of the Jeep. Since the people door of the garage is inside a fence, I keep it cracked so she can come and go. Flash considers Mildred to be HER pet. As soon as I finish breakfast, there is a regular display of dead mice along the edge of the backdoor patio (the girl next door gets moles) and in the last two weeks she's managed a couple sewer rats for extra credit. Still hoping to get her into a house by winter, especially since she is now accepted by the neighbors' two dogs.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on August 31, 2010, 03:31:27 PM

Saw this on Facebook & found it interesting:

http://www.mentalfloss.com/blogs/archives/63923

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: SusyQ151 on March 04, 2011, 11:07:07 AM

I had mentioned in a social the other day that Cleo had chewed a raw spot on her back and we had to put a cone on her to keep her out of it. Today hubby got her in to see the vet. It appears to be an allergy (most likely food related). She is now taking benedryl twice a day and a spray for the lesion on her back. Here are a few pictures of poor Cleo, her back and the cone.

Spoiler: show

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on June 05, 2011, 09:46:36 PM

Introducing my grandbunny Daisy. She joined the family back in January, & has grown a bit since these pics were taken. She belongs to my daughter, hence the term grandbunny. ;D

Spoiler: show

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on July 30, 2011, 07:43:38 PM

Pip aced her Therapy certification this morning. Therapy dogs do not have the vests that a service dog wears, but I always tie a large red bandana on Flash when she goes out as a therapy dog and now Pip has hers as well. We call it a vest. I suppose it's Mildred's turn next. :hahaha:

Flash and Pip spend a lot of the day down in the basement, either working on the treadmills or sleeping. They will come up when I'm online, though. We try to get in walks after dark when it gets cooler but this has been such a wicked summer.

Mildred did become more of a house cat with the heat and spends a lot of time next door with the girl who is sort of half-owner. Mill crams a lot into the days that I take allergy pills--mostly for mowing--and that happens more often since a neighbour and I do volunteer work; he has a pickup that we use to move my riding mower. Mill decided early on that her place was on my lap and I have a fanny pack to hold her there. Nothing like a hot cat on your lap when it is high 90's.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on July 30, 2011, 09:50:04 PM

Congrats Pip! :tu: I'm glad that Mildred is adjusting well too. :)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on October 24, 2011, 01:04:40 AM

Tuesday morning at 3 am I was loading the dishwasher when I heard a suspicious thump that sent me out to check for a raiding raccoon or possum. As I walked over the driveway, I stepped on what I thought was a walnut and got a flashlight from the garage to pick it up on the way back. Nothing had disturbed the trash cans, but I found the biggest toad I ever saw sprawled on its back, front legs sticking up like golf tees and a small dark pool near the back ones. I happen to like toads a lot and was on the verge of tears when I went to get a trowel.

I came back to find that Flash had slid open the patio door (trick # 352) and was staring at the toad. After a long moment the toad flopped over and stared back.

Flash: Looks as if you just missed The Big Ouchie there, Ed.

Ed Toad: Grumble, grumble...warts, lotsa warts!

Flash: Well, you're lucky Bigfoot was wearing her flip flops.

Ed Toad: Yay, plantar warts!

At this point, Pip joined the action.

Pip: Ewww, toad pee! Somebody forgot their Depends!

Ed Toad: You want warts on that nose, Smart Mouth? Kids!

I was going to move the toad over to the grass, but he proved fully capable of doing it himself before I could touch him. I went inside and did check once before going to bed around 7, but there was no sign--which I took as a good omen. I went out again after I got up after noon and Flash quickly led me to the herb bed which had a very new, very BIG hole right in the middle. I'll bet he was grumbling the whole time he dug. :)
Posted on: August 31, 2011, 04:22:50 AM

Ed Toad update! I hadn't seen the old toad since last weekend and felt that with the cool Fall weather that he had probably dug down to hibernate. Friday afternoon, however, I learned that he had been toadnapped by my 11-year old neighbor and is now luxuriating in a huge terrarium-in-progress. She found a NSFF*, 60 gallon aquarium, cleaned it up and had her grandfather bring in a bunch of earth from his farm which is pretty much organic. At the moment there is not much other than 8 inches of well-packed dirt and a few leaves for decoration, but it could well be a toad Mc Mansion in a bit. She gave Ed Toad a pill bug from a small stock a plastic box and speculated about raising them since they are a big toad favourite. I shuddered at the thought of all the rocks she had to have turned over to find them, then got the last two feeder ctickets from my garage and watched Ed Toad gleefully hop after them; in less than a minute it was toad 2, crickets nil. I remarked that somebody was going to get fat in a hurry, only to be told that a fat toad is a healthy toad. Ed Toad appeared to smirk at that, although it's hard to tell with toads sometimes. Best of luck to you, little friend.

*not suitable for fish (leaky)
Posted on: September 25, 2011, 02:45:09 AM

Ed Toad's home is called Toadsmirk Manor (he does smug like you wouldn't believe!) He has a small heat light that will be turned off at the end of the month to encourage hibernation, and a toad cave that used to be a small clay flowerpot. I donated the pot and a handyman friend sawed it in half; the other half will go into my garden in the spring. The aquarium is up on sawhorses in a corner of my neighbor's rec room, with Ed Toad still eating very well and appearing to enjoy the football games on the big, HD tv. ::)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: CountDracula82 on November 05, 2011, 08:05:21 AM

Picture of the Count and my Kitty Molly :)
(http://i806.photobucket.com/albums/yy342/CountDracula82/MollyandMe.png)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: Lguy1967 on November 05, 2011, 08:15:52 AM

Great picture, Count and what a big kitty!

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on November 05, 2011, 04:09:11 PM

Awww, she's beautiful!

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: FreddieB on November 05, 2011, 05:42:39 PM

What a nice cat, Count! Bet she doesn't get spoiled?!!

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on November 17, 2011, 06:45:38 PM

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v445/shockandwings/103111.jpg)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on May 25, 2012, 12:26:56 PM

Since I recently got a frog mini to represent Ed Toad, I thought it was time for an update. My young neighbor has been interested in flower gardens from before her second birthday and has started taking Ed Toad out on nice days. I saw him last week sitting close to some much smaller toads and imagined the following Campfire Tale.

"It was a dark and chilly night and I was hunkered on the asphalt, catching a bit of warmth before heading back to the old hole, when suddenly I heard a strange *fwip fwap* sound approaching. In moments, a great force knocked me azz over teakettle and I lay panting on my back wondering if this was the end. Then I saw one of the beasts that *herds* me into flower beds and began to suspect that the thing called Mower had got me at last. The appearance of a sudden bright light almost had me convinced that I should Go To It, but then I was transported to some dewy grass and left to ponder the close escape. Over the next days I was given gifts of food and then finally was taken to a strange sort of hotel room with conveniences you wouldn't believe--sweet little worms and crickets whenever I want and a toad cave to boot! I think it must be Toad Heaven"

Ed Toad seems to enjoy his outings and the eventual return inside. During the winter his aquarium was moved to the glassed-in back porch to keep it cooler and I see him enjoying the sun there once in a while.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: FLCruise7 on May 25, 2012, 01:55:47 PM

Sounds like Ed Toad is definitely living the high life!

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on May 28, 2012, 12:40:38 PM

Great story Shock!

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on May 28, 2012, 03:22:29 PM

Saturday was my annual excursion to a rural cemetary for Memorial Day cleanup. The retired couple across the street volunteered their truck to get my mower transported and their yorkie, Duchess, a rescue pup of about 13 years joined Flash, Pip and Mildred. My 12 year old neighbor also came, although her dog and Ed Toad remained at home. I mowed while the others trimmed, as Flash and Pip ran in front looking for critters in the mower path (I do rescue toads and snakes) and Mildred and Duchess chased chipmunks. No chipmunks were caught, but Mill did eat a nest of baby rabbits, a treat long since vanished from our own neighborhood.

Afterwards I grilled several pounds of chicken breasts which provided the weekend menu: plain Saturday, fajitas yesterday and chicken salad today.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on June 01, 2012, 08:37:05 PM

My parents added a new furry boy to the family today when they adopted Leo from the MD SPCA. He is a 2 year old 22 lb Dachshund mix, with long-ish black hair. We introduced him to Roscoe at my parents' house, as Ros is usually very aggressive with his own kind, and while he's comfortable at their house, he realizes that it's not his permanent home. I thought that the aggression would be a bigger issue if they met here, or at the SPCA since it could've triggered memories of his time there, or it would've been an unfamiliar place to him.

After some barking from both dogs, growling & snapping from Roscoe, and treats for Roscoe when he followed the "Leave It" command, Ros began to accept Leo as a member of his pack. We took Roscoe & Leo shopping for Leo's supplies, & made sure that Roscoe was treated like the Alpha dog that he is - he got into & out of the car 1st, rode in the front with me, went into the stores 1st & went through the lines 1st, etc. By the end of this excursion, he was almost ok with Leo. When we got back to my parents' house, Roscoe was being civil with Leo, so we took the leashes off both dogs. Roscoe went to his water dish & drank, then allowed Leo to drink while my Dad was washing Leo's new bowls. He allowed Leo to eat some of his food too. They both ate & drank from Leo's bowls too. By the time we humans had dinner, Roscoe & Leo were being friendly with each other. :) I think Roscoe was happy that we left Leo there when we came home though.

Without further ado, meet Leo:

Spoiler: show

And here's a pic that I took of Roscoe this morning. We did laundry before going to the SPCA, lol:

Spoiler: show

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on June 02, 2012, 10:18:05 AM

Leo is a very handsome chap! I hope Roscoe will be a nice big brother.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: Lguy1967 on June 02, 2012, 02:37:58 PM

Leo is adorable, Lisa, and Roscoe too of course. :)

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on March 30, 2014, 03:26:39 PM

One of the biggest reasons that I wanted to move is that I really wanted to adopt a Pit Bull. I have been researching this mis-understood, energetic breed for over a year & have concluded that Pits just want to please their people. Of course there are exceptions to this character trait (as there are with ANY breed), but for the most part, Pits are loving, loyal companions as long as they are given proper training, mental stimulation & exercise.

I have been following the Animal Advocates of Baltimore County Facebook page, which promotes the adoption of highly-deserving fur-kids from the Baltimore County Animal Shelter - a high-kill shelter. (This is the same shelter I adopted Chase from in 2008.) Those of you who are my friends on Facebook have probably seen the dogs & cats in need of homes that I have been sharing. Anyway, to make a really long story somewhat shorter, I donated a bunch of sheets & pillow cases before I moved & went into the kennel to check out a dog that the volunteers were concerned about. He had been in there for about 1 month, & was in danger of being killed if the shelter filled up. I didn't get the "Vibe" off of him that Roscoe would accept him, and did not adopt him. (He was later pulled by a no-kill rescue.) I did check out the other dogs though & found a few that I thought Roscoe would accept. (Ros has some serious alpha-male issues & shows aggression toward other dogs who are not family. I got the "Vibe" from Leo that Ros would accept him & they get along great!)

On Friday, the Advocates posted that the shelter was beyond full & Hummer, one of the dogs that I liked earlier, was still there & in danger. He had been surrendered by his previous owner on Valentine's Day, & was the dog that had been there the longest. Yesterday morning, Danny & I set out to see the dogs & save a life. He fell in love with Hummer too, so I adopted him. Unfortunately, they would not let him leave until he was neutered, but I will be picking up my new fur-child tomorrow afternoon! :) In keeping with our Dukes of Hazzard-themed names, we are changing his name to Luke. Without further ado, meet Luke Bryan DeVage, courtesy of the Advocates' Facebook page:

Spoiler: show

Some updated pics of Chase, Ros & Leo too: :)

Spoiler: show

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: SusyQ151 on March 31, 2014, 04:26:41 AM

Thanks for sharing LisaMarie. You have a good heart.

Luke is a handsome boy, but he looks far too serious. Congratulations for giving this sweet boy a home.

I hope things go well with the new family member.

Roscoe, Leo and Chase look happy.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: billthedog082 on March 31, 2014, 05:16:26 AM

Luke is a handsome boy, wtg for opening your home to him. Pit bulls do get a very bad rap. It's the owner, not the dog, that is to blame when a pup goes wrong, pit bull or any other breed. I have been following all your posts and give you a huzzah and a round of apPlAWS. The very best of luck for your family that has grown again!

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on March 31, 2014, 01:51:28 PM

A hundred or so years ago, they were called bull terriers and were the ultimate family pet for your young kids if you lived in towns; farm kids like me had to try our luck with the less socialized herders and hunters.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: FreddieB on April 01, 2014, 12:09:01 PM

That is wonderful of you and Danny to adopt Luke. I have a good friend with a pit bull who is so laid back and affectionate, couldn't imagine her ever being aggressive. I'm sure Luke will be looking much happier when he figures out he has gotten a "forever" home! All the other fur balls are lookin' good.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on May 26, 2014, 02:58:00 PM

Before we moved, I promised Chase his own cat & Roscoe his own dog. Luke fulfilled my promise to Roscoe, and I came through on my promise to Chase this past Saturday, when I went to the Baltimore County Animal Shelter Just to look. I have always wanted an orange tabby & an all white cat, so when I saw "Novel" a 6 year old neutered male orange tabby & white cat, I was interested. Then factor in the shelter was offering half price adoptions for Memorial Day, guess who came home & was re-named Bo:

Spoiler: show

These pics are from the Advocates' Facebook page & the County website. Bo is currently fighting a kitty cold that he started with last night, so I will take new pics when he is feeling better. I mentioned in my post about Luke that this is a high-kill shelter, and that point was driven home to Paul Andrew, my oldest son, who was with me at the time. As I was filling out the paper work & Bo was seeing the vet, the shelter worker that was assisting me in the cat room came out to the lobby to ask a volunteer to please clean the cage that Bo was in. She stated that she had another cat that she needed to put in it quickly. Talk about saving a life!

Speaking of Luke, he is doing really well, & is beginning to learn some manners & feel at home. Here are some updated pics of the rest of the furballs:

Spoiler: show

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: SusyQ151 on May 27, 2014, 05:17:47 AM

Congratulations LisaMarie! Bo is a very pretty kitty. You have quite the fur family. They are so lucky to have found their forever home.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: gizdor on May 27, 2014, 06:57:18 AM

Very cute family of pets you have there, LisaMarie!! Bo is lovely!! They are all beautiful animals and lucky to have you!!! I bet they know that!! :)

I love animals and wish we could have more. But it took a lot of talking, for us to talk our landlord into us moving in with our dog and cat!! But they finally gave in and are happy that we spoke the truth on how good they both are!!

Our landlord has a mentally challenged brother ( in his 30's ) and he absolutely loves our dog Kasha. Even though he insists on calling her Tasha...lol! But we don't mind. But we have to watch him closely, when we are out with Kasha, as he sometimes gets a little rough. He means no harm, but it scares the dog. We also found out quickly though, that we have to keep our doors locked, or he walks right in the house. ( His sister use to live on our side of the house )

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: akashock on October 26, 2014, 01:27:23 PM

Last October, Ed Toad got a new, larger aquarium home and because of the season, it was decorated with a Halloween theme. Being a smart toad, Ed did not try to eat the little bat and pumpkin stickers off the glass. but he spent a lot of time looking at the little cardboard tombstone I made that read "Not Dead, Just Hibernating." After a few days, he dug down into the dirt in front of it and stayed under. It was expected that he would be up again as usual after a few days, but a month went by with no Ed and soon all thoughts were on the wicked weather of the polar vortex. Ed didn't emerge until late April, looking a wee bit thinner for his months underground.

Thus began the debate: was Ed Toad (an indoors critter now) aware of the weather to come and following nature, or had he read the tombstone and decided to go along with the joke. The neighborhood being what it is, more of the votes cam down on the side of Ed reading, but that's just us. We are, however, keeping an eye on Ed to see if he disappears again and the tombstone has been replaced by a little tentacled Cthulhu with no writing.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: FLCruise7 on October 26, 2014, 02:09:08 PM

Great story about Ed Toad, Shock. Maybe he won't bury himself for months this year -- thus proving that he does indeed read!! ;D

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: LisaMarie on January 15, 2015, 08:54:24 PM

The fur family has grown again, but this time its a granddog! Tiffany & her Fiancee DJ adopted a beautiful 3 year old brown & white pit bull named Connie yesterday. Connie comes from the same high-kill shelter where I rescued Chase, Luke & Bo, and is a total sweetheart. She is a lot calmer than Luke, & smaller too (42 lbs vs Luke's 65 lbs). She was sneezing a bit yesterday when Tiff & I were shopping for necessities, so I want her to see the vet to rule out kennel cough before introducing her to her furry uncles. Without further ado, meet Connie:

Spoiler: show

Pics are from the Animal Advocates of Baltimore County Facebook page.

Title: Re: Pets
Post by: Marie Phoenix on January 15, 2015, 10:51:12 PM

She is a beautiful dog. I love her markings. She looks like a sweetheart. Any dog from a shelter makes a wonderful dog.

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General Category => Home, Lifestyles, Entertainment & Leisure => Topic started by: LisaMarie on January 05, 2010, 05:54:08 PM