RSVP Blog

Hi Leoladya............I just adore my mini poodle, and as per prev post have a x shitzu, they are so rewarding and yes so clever, are they reflective of our personality, I am sure they are since we have chosen them as our preferred breed. Perhaps a little sassy, stylish, and clever!

Outdoorsme

Hi - I have 3 Standard Poodles - would love to think that I am as gorgeous & smart as my dogs! Any other poodle people on here?

Posted by: leoladya at October 5, 2008 12:09 PM

Posted by: outdoorsme at November 5, 2008 10:19 PM

Does anyone else on here have a Westie? Would luv to speak to other Westie-lovers!

Posted by: chilliejillie at November 4, 2008 6:41 PM

My youngest has a jack russell and he is so much as you discribed. I love him to bits :)

Yes their are full of character :) and I look forward to "dog sitting" when my daughter asks :))

Posted by: sonny51 at November 4, 2008 6:03 PM

could it get any better? hanging out with my jack Russ, Huxley-Aldous-Sparky-Truckie-Boy is one of life's greatest pleasures.(looking out to enhancing the list with a gorgeous guy, any punters?) Because Ive been traveling this year, Hux is still in melbs & will join me once Ive completely settled back in adelaide. To say I'm missing him just doesn't cut it. His sparky smile, happy face & busy feet, dog water slobbery kisses & bed hogging. Even spending time coaxing him down from trees & patiently waiting while he's exploring bunny holes. His relentless energy, 'carn mum what about the ball huh huh'! His companionship & loyalty regardless of my state of mind, If Ive got the blues he instinctively knows to just snuggle with me or when I'm full of the joys of spring he'll bounce around & be crazy fun, whatever we do, he's happy. His massive heart for such a little dude puts others to shame, he just gets it & I trust him completely as he does me in return. Living without him has been challenging but for his well being its better that he stays with his other family that adore him as I do & knowing he's content & safe & stable in their environment gives me peace of mind. Still, I ache for his company every day & feel a bit out of whack when he isn't by my side. Everyone of you reading this would understand exactly what I mean & only us privileged ones who have a four legged best bud can truly appreciate how much our dogs play an integral part in our lives. I feel sorry for those who undermine & don't get what absolute joy our pets bring to us & visa versa. I love watching people & their mates interacting, walking playing etc & appreciate all the benefits & bonuses come with having dogs in our families, they out way anything money can buy & bring to us the beauty of experiencing unconditional faithfulness & love love sweet puppy love! Bless them all & all of you who have opened up your heart to allow the truest friend ever imaginable into it. Have a dog day afternoon, cheers!

Posted by: sassafrass65 at November 4, 2008 4:52 PM

Oh! I have just remembered that Molly and I DO have something in common: Champange bottles: she luvs chasing the corks and I luv drinking the contents........ mmmm.....

Posted by: chilliejillie at November 4, 2008 4:50 PM

I'm not sure what owning a Westie (West Highland White Terrier) says about me...Hmmm..Well, I know I don't shed fur (a Westie doesn't either); I'm not as finicky as she is (she only eats lamb shanks, even in summer); I dig up the garden to plant stuff (she never digs); when we go for a drive I don't hang my head out of the window and yell at the lights to change....and, um, I don't wee on the carpet...well, not often anyway ;)

Posted by: chilliejillie at November 4, 2008 2:11 PM

WOW lookatmoi you poor thing. I have been there with the tick thing too, but it only cost me about $300 and that was a full shave and overnight observation! Perhaps you are using one of those super duper charge for everything vets. Sometimes it is better to find one of those local corner common-sense vets. I knew a woman once that was conned into paying $1000's for MRI's etc only for her dog to die the same day. As a mad pet owner I understand the importance of looking after my babies and I think some vets can take advantage of that.

Posted by: zookeeper61 at November 3, 2008 9:51 PM

Hello all.......... I' m new to the group, and would like to introduce myself as carer of Rupert (Miniature Poodle - very handsome) and Rose ( Rupert's sire x Maltese Shitzu) very cute with a pretty swishy tail, both are black. My little mates have great personalities, follow me around like shadows, hog the bed, and tell me when it's dinner time!

Posted by: outdoorsme at November 3, 2008 9:17 PM

Posted by: shaula at November 1, 2008 6:11 PM - Yep, they sure are clever little buggers. Manipulative, sneaky and cunning also come into the equation :)

But, you just gotta love em!

I still have fond memories of our two. Simply adorable.

*waves to Sam and Rosie*

Posted by: heart2heart57 at November 2, 2008 11:42 AM

Posted by: loookatmoi at November 1, 2008 11:35 AM

Welcome :) Am so glad to hear of your boys recovery. Even though the cost for treatment is high the cost of losing them is higher. Rotten lousy things ticks!!!!

My Greygirl is recovering from one as well. This year is the first time ever I have found one on one of my dogs. I gave it a nice cremation :)

At least my girl did not have to be shaved and my bill was no where near as much as yours!!

Give your boy a pat for me :)

Posted by: shaula at November 1, 2008 6:46 PM

Posted by: heart2heart57 at October 30, 2008 9:48 PM

Of course you may borrow her :)

I should warn you first though - she likes to have the last word, pinches all of the doona and loves it when you make a cuppa and then leave it on the coffee table where she can reach it. She can also easily remove lids off containers (even screw top ones) and will devour the contents (ask me about the day I got my new lounge and she found the golden syrup I left on the kitchen bench). She also has a penchant for floating candles - especially the Vanilla scented ones.

I would love to have a bet with you to see how long you lasted :) My money would be on her. Just as well though as I am not sure I could cope for long without her :)

Posted by: shaula at November 1, 2008 6:11 PM

Hi everyone I am new here! I have a blue merle coloured rough coated collie (a 'Lassie dog' as some people know them). I love his personality - he is totally calm with kids, but great company and very loving. I have no idea how these dogs worked as farm dogs where they originated in the UK, I couldnt imagine a farmer sitting down to groom the dog at the end of the day!!! He is recovering from getting a paralysis tick (living in Brissie), I got it early, but with vet fees and having to shave him to see if he had any other ticks on him...he looks weird now with short hair!! it cost me $1000 in vet fees!phew!...but hes worth it, you cant really put a price on your best mate really. The kids and I would have been devastated if we lost him.

Posted by: loookatmoi at November 1, 2008 11:35 AM

Posted by: shaula at October 25, 2008 11:14 AM - Awwww... A Whippet. Can I borrow it for a while? I'll give it back, honest I will...

Posted by: heart2heart57 at October 30, 2008 9:48 PM

Wow Snowflake - 6 dogs!! Bless you :) Must be one crazy, loving, happy slurpy house you live in :)

I have three living here with me. 2 rescues and one I have had since a pup. The oldest is an ex racing Greyhound I adopted through GAP. The whippet is the next in seniority (although the naughtiest) and the Dobergirl is the youngest. Could not imagine life without them.

Posted by: shaula at October 25, 2008 11:14 AM

Hi everyone, I have 6 dogs living here, 5 are Death Row Rescues and one was a dump, he was actually found by the other 5 dogs shivering under a log in our bottom paddock one morning, we had no intention of keeping him at the time (who were we kidding), but now, nearly 3 years later, he's a bona fide member of the mad dog bunch !!!...They range from a Bullmastiff x, down to a Chihuahua x and all sizes and colours in between !!!....They are great company when you need a friend, pains in the you know what when they decide to have a barking contest, the most hopeless rabbit catches on earth, fantastic dish lickers, great with kids, wonderful hostesses, and my best friends !!!!

Posted by: snowflake1960 at October 25, 2008 7:49 AM

Hey, I have a Moodle also and she is midnight black, I would be lost with out her and I honestly have never met a smarter animal. She loves her squeaky toys as well and she even recognises the names we give them. If you ask her to go and find frisbee or squeakie or pink ring she will hunt the house till she finds it. If you don't play with a toy she hands you she goes and finds another toy you might like and you don't hear the end of it till you play with her. It's so adorable!

Posted by: robert1210 at October 22, 2008 11:00 PM

Perth, it is sad how they treated those pit ponies - even sadder about the children who were used for the same job. Thank goodness that awful part of our history is over. Mind you, the horses at Burra mines were treated better than the miners.

Born2pamper - love that story :)

Leoladya - One of the standard poodles in our dog club is also one of the best trackers in the club!

Tonight is our Dog Club Halloween night - we get to dress up and dress the dogs up in costumes, play games and win prizes. Tickety-boo always wins the "fastest recall". (I hope that hasnt jinxed us!)

Posted by: willow29 at October 20, 2008 2:06 PM

Hey Everyone ... I have a male pug and a femaile kelpie X. I can't do without them especially when my pug gives me a cuddle :) When I lived in Sydney my pug would love finding the phone when I was on the speaker phone and his wagging tail is cute. Lots of love to you all and your dogs :)

Posted by: demonicangel22 at October 20, 2008 1:06 PM

Hi all. I have two gorgeous dogs. I have a nine year old German Shepherd X dog and a two year old Rotty X female and I reckon I'd go nuts without them. They are so loving and give real meaning to the word 'loyal'. It's so great to be greeted by two wagging tails when I get home and really brightens my day. Hope all your pets are doing well :) Cheers.

Posted by: cheeky1960 at October 10, 2008 5:53 PM

Willow, You should read about the wonderful hardworking ponies they used underground in the mines in England years ago. They were welsh mountain ponies, courageous, hardworking and honest. Unfortunately when they left the mines they were blind. A home was set up for the blind ponies some years later and there are wonderful stories. However, be warned numerous boxes of Kleenex are needed I can assure you.

Posted by: iaminperth at October 7, 2008 9:57 AM

Yes Leoladya I'm a poodle person, I have 2 black miniature poodles and a toy poodle x maltese that thinks she a cat. I've had the male poodle for about three years now and finally found an all black female mate for him after about 18m months of on and off searching. She is now about 12 weeks old and totally adorable...miss personality plus and so smart. The other night she was walking around the house with a squeaky toy and every 10 - 20 seconds she would make it squeak. Needless to say after about 5 -6 minutes this became rather annoying not only to me but also to the other two dogs..... finally Harry (the male) had had enough, he jumped down off the couch, cuffed her with his paw, grabbed the toy and hopped back on the couch and lay on top of it ..... Silence is golden.

Posted by: born2pamper at October 7, 2008 9:36 AM

I have a great dane and a staffyx mutt. Owning a great dane probably means I want to be cherised and protected by someone tall dark and handsome. Maybe it says I like a challenge or else reflects the fact that I had a deprived childhood and never had a pony. lol
The mutt is a foster dog I couldn't bear to part with. He is loving, intelligent, sweet, feisty, cocky, and a real handful..I bought him a little tag that reads 'Bad to the Bone"
So I guess, I recognised a kindred spririt when I adopted him.

Posted by: danelover at October 7, 2008 7:53 AM

Well, I have an adorable Beagle. I'm very sociable, so I'd have to say that's what we have in common. I used to use playtime with cats, dogs, and children as treats for him when he was younger to move him away from food as a reward. I've heard people say they're difficult to train, but he's so obedient.

Posted by: j1adam at October 6, 2008 10:48 PM

Without trying to sound funny I have to say that although my cat is affectionate and cute as pie Im in love with Woody and hes not even my dog.. I do feed him and take him out to the park to swim and chase balls occassionally but the way he adores me is ridiculous and contagious. Is that how we fall in love? When someone with the right chemistry likes you a lot then you just start liking them back, because you are liking them back they like you some more and this goes on until its love? Well thats what happened with Woody and me. Now that I think of it Polo and I also did that though it doesnt just happen with any ol dog. Some dogs are annoying when they get too friendly arent they (maybe thats where 'barking up the wrong tree' was first used. Like everything else, its a mystery.

Posted by: normalanice at October 6, 2008 1:46 AM

Hi - I have 3 Standard Poodles - would love to think that I am as gorgeous & smart as my dogs! Any other poodle people on here?

Posted by: leoladya at October 5, 2008 12:09 PM

Posted by: mvivu at September 29, 2008 2:19 AM

Great story Linda I have a JRT too, they are amazing little dogs :)))

Posted by: outbackdrifter at September 29, 2008 7:05 AM

As I'm new here, I thought I'd post a piece I wrote about my breed of choice, the infamous Parson Russell Terrier. Hope you all enjoy it!

---------------------------------------------

As I arrive, Giovanni�s guard dog, a euphemistic term, runs over to meet the car; he is a large, handsome Italian herding dog, with long, platinum hair. Fergus leaps into action and out of the car window; Dingo is greeted offhandedly and reminded with insolence, of just who is alpha male.

Dingo's tethered to a long wire, sentenced to remain there while the sheep are out grazing. He committed the gravest sin possible for a sheep dog; he discovered that it�s more fun to chase sheep than watch them ... on more than one occasion. During his last escapade, he was seen tearing down the terraces, heading for the pasture below, where - with wild abandon - he went about the business of making sheep play tag.

Unfortunately, between the shrieks of Luciana and I, the howls of fury from Giovanni down below, and the amiable but frightening Dingo, the terrified beasts dashed like proverbial lemmings, towards the woods and ravine. In a world where livestock is precious, Dingo will be given no reprieve from his confinement, no parole; the price he must pay for being a true Blonde!

All seems quiet at the house, the kitchen, usual home to Luciana, is empty; I find her in the outside cantina, busy sorting through work clothes. Lucia explains to me that, as it�s been raining all morning, Giovanni is working down in the greenhouse, but should be back any moment. Large, ancient terracotta urns stand in the corner of the cantina, filled with this year�s fresh oil from the olive trees at Reggio; Luciana decants a bottle for me. As she's finishing her task, pandemonium breaks out, not only Dingo and Fergus, but a cacophony of other dogs, all baying and howling.

As we run outside men are arriving in vans, pick-ups�, cars, and of course, the ubiquitous Ape�s, and are parking wherever there is an inch of ground to be found. It�s hunting season for cingiale, wild boar. Luciana has given permission for two policemen from a neighbouring village to hunt the woods and hills behind the farm. I have the impression however that she was not expecting the entire male population of Volastra, Manarola and Riomaggiore!

From within their cages, dogs, hunting bells ringing, are outraged at the sight of an arrogant Fergus, running free, and carelessly accepting the admiration of all. �Un Terrieere Inglese!� The hunters assemble around Luciana and I, and in time-honored Italian fashion completely ignore the absolute chaos, proceed to admire the view, and attempt to hold bellowed conversations.

�Ah, signora, this is a dog for hunting, for the woods, molto corragioso, molto inteligente, very courageous, let him come, we can take him with us.� I agree that Jack Russell�s are indeed very brave, and yes �they are theoretically, very intelligent. I also attempt to define in my faltering Italian, the complexities of Napoleon Syndrome, which most J.R�s. suffer from. I tell them I have no desire to see a gored and bloody Fergus returned home to me, even if it were to be his finest hour!
Accepting my squeamishness as one more proof of the disadvantages of female dog ownership, the men�s discussion then progresses to the attempted purchase of such a fine dog, who must certainly be suffering from not having fulfilled his vocation in life. �Come, vieni, Fur-goose.�

There is, as I know from experience, only one way to end this conversation. With a sigh and a shrug, I tell them that Fur-goose is in fact, molto viziato, a very spoiled Terriere Inglese; he sleeps, not merely in the house, not only in the bedroom, but on the bed, too!

Silence � and resignation accompanied by knowing glances and raised eyebrows that say �una matta Inglese� an English mad woman. If I were to ever be completely frank with them and mention that Fergus is usually to be found curled up under the covers in the bed, it would result in either complete disbelief � or a straightjacket.

These men will be careful, officially, to remain on or just outside the National Park boundary � but �who can know just where, exactly - precisely - a boundary is.�

This is one of the problems Signora Olivari and her team of officers face. Her advice is simple, �if you are near or on the line with a shotgun in your hands, it had better be pointed at something outside the boundary, inside - it belongs to me�.

Each one of these hunters, is dressed to kill, literally and metaphorically! Shotguns are worn casually, slung across backs. Jackets with multiple pockets, army fatigue trousers, wide leather belts, breast straps filled with gun cartridges, hunting knives in holsters; and of course, carrying cases for that most quintessential item of Italian living, telefonini, cell phones. Camouflage fabrics abound, guaranteed to blend into the woodland and render the wearer invisible to any prey. I find it curious that the hunters also all wear fluorescent orange caps, hats and vests for safety; but � hold on � if the boar are unable to see bright colors, why bother with the camouflage � and if they can �

Maybe the wild boar simply won�t notice!

Dogs are released from the cages and leashed; the hunting party sets off up the footpath towards Monte Malpertuso to the misleading sound of gently tinkling bells. The calm that follows is broken by Giovanin�s arrival, muttering in dialect. As I am aware of his feelings on hunting, I know it augers ill. Luciana attempts an explanation; Giovanni is not happy with so many cars and people on his property. Even worse, a car parked on the track has split a pipe that leads from the new well, sunk this summer at great expense. Quiet words are spoken to a couple of �stragglers�, again in dialect; the men head off into the woods, zitti come pesci, silent as fish. Giovanni retires to his kitchen and lunch.
------------------------

Sadly, Fergus had his way eventually, he disappeared before I could shut him away...he had heard the hunting dog's bells. He was returned to me as I had imagined that day. He lived each moment with total passion, and I envied him his ability to do so.

Ciao, Linda

Posted by: mvivu at September 29, 2008 2:19 AM

Whew what a relief OBD - Dougal and I were starting to get a bit of a complex! Willow - Imagine the dragon thing from the kids film Never Ending Story and you have Dougal now. Would post photo but I am always behind the camera which defeats the purpose of why we are here I guess and anyway - Dougal can blog on the Beneful website any time he likes! LOL I can't believe I even wrote that!

Nicegirrl - I find that issue to - have made some good friends in the neighbourhood since owning Dougal but all female!!!

Posted by: independentelle at September 21, 2008 11:41 AM

Hi all. I have 2 dalmatians (mother and son) a cat and 2 young boys! I think what this says about me is that I am a glutton for hard work. I have always loved dalmatians although I must admit that they can be a handful. They don't mature until they are 2 and they shed white hairs all year round. Not good for someone who loves to wear black like me! Dallys are great with kids and become very attached to their family. I have shown them, obedience trialled them but at the moment they are just my house companions. Their names are Toby and Dodie.They do attract a lot of attention when I walk them. Not the attention of men though LOL Usually young children who have seen the 'movie'. If I had $1 for every time I have heared "where are the other 99"! I once read an article that said that men walking dalmatians or golden retreivers were more likely to be attractive to women. I walk my dalmatians around Yarraville and surrounds but it does not seem to work the other way around! Oh well at least I am keeping fit.

Posted by: nicegirrl at September 20, 2008 1:42 PM

Willow, yes that a Koala & no H2H its not your eyes, lets hope that Dougal is better tempered then a Koala but in the Koala defence you would be bad tempered if you were stoned for your whole life LOL :))

independentelle dont mind us......we are really nice people & welcome to the sandpit :))

Drifter

Posted by: outbackdrifter at September 20, 2008 1:29 PM

Posted by: willow29 at September 18, 2008 9:32 PM - DOH! Then it isn't my eyes? Hey, that really is a Koala! LoL.

Posted by: heart2heart57 at September 20, 2008 11:17 AM

Hi Independelle, Welcome - I took a peak at your profile to see if Dougal was on it. He looks just like a koala! :)

Posted by: willow29 at September 18, 2008 9:32 PM

I think my dog would say I am man's best friend's most overworked slave! LOL I bought Dougal the Maltalier sight unseen after one of my girlfriends bought his brother - a gorgeous little white ball of fluff, with point ears. Well 1 week later when she arrived with Dougal and I found myself the loving owner of a chocolate coloured, droopy eared, paws like an alsatian sausage dog!!!! Been together 4 years and cannot imagine life without him - loves weekends when we go for long walks with his pals and visiting friends. Covers you in kisses when you wake in the morning and again when you return from work - hopefully there is an ARGG on this site who is as happy to see me!! LOL

Posted by: independentelle at September 15, 2008 7:26 PM

I have the Great Working Horse Stories too. Both books have got paperclipped sections "don't read again", because I cried so much!

Posted by: willow29 at September 15, 2008 2:21 PM

"Great Working Dog Stories"?
Yes, I've read them, there are several volumes, filled with wonderful, amazing, hilarious and some heart wrenching stories, Well worth searching out. My favourite would have to be the tractor driving dog.
cheers,

Posted by: madbiologist at September 15, 2008 1:43 PM

Hi everyone. I have just found this blog and have really enjoyed reading your stories and comments.

Madbiologist I had a "Bonny" too. I lost her 8 years ago and just reading her name in your post made me cry. I know another dog will never replace your Bonny, however there might be one in the future who can share you with Bonny's memory. I hope so :)

h2h57 - Agree about the Whippets - they rock!!. I only have the one and she truly does read my mind. She is as human as I am. They are beautiful dogs :) I hope she lives forever because I cannot imagine life without her devilish ways.

Posted by: shaula at September 14, 2008 8:15 PM

Posted by: madbiologist at September 12, 2008 4:53 PM - Mate, my eyes are leaking profusely reading this. Our 'dogs' were like children to us too. They can bring sooo much joy. They have their own personalities, and they seem to find a way to sneak a little piece of your heart and make it their own. Losing them were some of the hardest things in life I've endured - short of losing 'human' family.

I share your heavy heart my friend, as the tears are now flowing freely down my cheeks.

I have been advised many times before to 'just get another dog'. It's not as simple as that, is it?

Please take comfort in accepting that there are people here who know exactly what you are going through. It's not crazy at all. Be well and keep smiling. One day, another 'Bonny' might just enter your life, and your heart...

Posted by: heart2heart57 at September 13, 2008 8:32 PM

Madbiologist, I cried too! You're so right, the love of a dog....

Have you read "Great Working Dog Stories"? Its a great book.

Posted by: willow29 at September 12, 2008 6:42 PM

I have only had one true pet in my life. As a kid growing up with a brother and sister we had a number of dogs and loved all of them but my one true love was Bonny. Bonny was a red cloud kelpie one of Australia's true working dogs.
I got her at 12 weeks of age, covered in Dermadex mites looking very mangy and bedraggled but she was so full of life I just adored her. Bonny was rescued from a breeder at the last minute by a girl at work who passed her on to my partner at the time who got her for me as company at work. Work meant driving around from farm to farm talking to farmers about their pests and weeds and advising them on control options and such. For Bonny it was like heaven on a stick. She got to visit farm after farm and check out all the local dogs, the pigs, sheep, cattle you name it she rolled in it.

She came to work with me for four years until I left that job and took on a research position. Then she always accompanied me on field trips and she very quickly learned which paddocks were prickle free and which weren't. She never left the car in a prickle paddock twice. She became so popular among my friends that dinner and BBQ invites were addressed to Bonny and Friends. Bonny even received postcards from travelling friends.

At sixteen she suffered a series of strokes and I'll never forget the day she was put down. She died in my arms while I bawled like a new born (I'm crying now). She means so much to me that I've not been able to face the idea of another dog, as much as I enjoy them. I've looked after friends dogs on many occasions but four years on I still can't face another dog taking her place. I even dream about her.

I probably sound rather crazy but I'm sure a real dog lover knows what its like.

Just wanted to get that off my chest.

cheers,

Posted by: madbiologist at September 12, 2008 4:53 PM

Did anyone see Micky Rourke with his dog on the red carpet tonight? She's sixteen years old and he won't go anywhere without her. He wants to spend every last minute that she's got with her. How wonderful is that?

Posted by: willow29 at September 7, 2008 5:31 PM

Posted by: thegoddessofthesea at September 4, 2008 8:10 PM - Just had a visual of you running at 400 miles an hour and the dog doing a dead-stop. *urk*. Straight over the top, or straight into the deck... LoL....

(still laughing)... :)

Posted by: heart2heart57 at September 6, 2008 11:43 AM

My son has a german shepherd / collie dog. She is beautiful..so now I feed her, walk her, brush her, clean up her poop, let her in out of the rain and generally spoil her. Whoever thought I'd fall for a dog???? hehehhehe

Posted by: okamhere at September 5, 2008 10:26 PM

Goddess, I understand completely - and isnt it funny how everyone that passes you says "who's taking who for a walk?".

Posted by: willow29 at September 5, 2008 9:29 AM

I have two dogs- one is a golden cocker, the other so much a mixed breed that even her vet can't say what she might be! Both were neglected "foster dogs" that I fell in love with. Charlotte, the bitzer, runs around the back yard all day looking at the sky and chasing birds/planes/helicopters. She's a little... special... She HATES getting wet, can't understand why the cats don't want to play chasey and breaks wind when she gets excited. Harry the cocker spaniel is getting on in years and will happily sleep in the sun all day, with short breaks for digging and policing the fenceline urine situation. Taking him for a walk involves an Olympic standard of steeplechase as mid-run he will stop dead to smell something, which means I've learned how to hurdle instead of doing a face-plant. If I really feel like giving myself some cruel and unusual punishment, I run both dogs at the same time. Keeps the reflexes sharp!

Something I'd like to share with those out there who are not the "toy dog" type. A friend was telling me about his recent breakup. He said it was all due to his partner bringing home a hamster. I was a little puzzled and told him hamsters aren't permitted in Australia. His response- "Well, in Australia we call them Pomeranians".

Still laughing over that one.

Posted by: thegoddessofthesea at September 4, 2008 8:10 PM

: musicteacher at September 3, 2008 1:48 PM
Toothy used talk to me in the car while I was driving, we had good conversations, but shadow is more of a boofhead, not as refined as Toothy was, but we are still good mates....he wants to bark at you rather than talk....except Shadow has chewed the seats in my 4WD...grrrrr..so had to get another set of seats to replace them. But the males and females are so different.... the females are more... er... "bitchy and snappy", have a finer slightly smaller head.The males just want to play and love children. Yes they can make short work of a tennis ball. Shadow is a wanderer, will climb over a fence, or dig under it, so am forced to chain him up when not at home by himself.

Posted by: blueblueyes at September 3, 2008 2:32 PM

blublue.........I have one too.........they are great little dogs.........great "ball" dogs too.

Goes yours sing/howl to "The blues"?

Posted by: musicteacher at September 3, 2008 1:48 PM

My Partner decided we should get a dog....so we got this Jack Russell pup. He had such a great happy personality. We hit a bad patch within our relationship due to her teenage daughter that couldn't be resolved, so we parted. This may sound corney, but I really missed the happy energy and wagging tail of the dog when I got home. A good friend had a Tenterfield Terrier, that was due to have pups, so he said I had first pick.(She only had 1 pup) I picked him up and took him home....Trying to select a name for him was difficult, so I called him "Toothy", short for Tuthmosis, an Egyptian Pharoah due to his regal gait....and he was always chewing something...even my arm. This same friend
who gave me the dog, was looking after him while I went to Stradbroke Island, when he rang me, in tears, to tell me he had been run over........................
After a while I had an other Tenterfield Terrier choose me, when I was searching for another dog. His kennel name was Shadow, and that is what he was as a pup, so the name has remained.He comes to work with me, has an attitude problem, but we manage...greets everyone at the door, he really is a turbo charged dog, there is no stopping him....we have been together for 8 years now....they can live to 25 years...does he look like me? no he is much better looking, a real chick magnet.....ken

Posted by: blueblueyes at September 3, 2008 12:53 PM

Aliane, that's great he gets on with you so well. My little dog doesnt like visitors. She sits in "her" armchair and looks at them balefully. If someone tries to squeeze on the chair, she literally kicks them off. The bc though, thinks people are visiting HIM!

Welcome Kitikali, Im sure you dont look like your dog!
Cadence -welcome too - staffy's are such people dogs, arent they? Your spaniel sounds very unusual, lol

Posted by: willow29 at September 3, 2008 12:36 PM

My friend asked me to look after her dog while she's been away, on holiday to overseas, the dog is well trained and very quiet, doesn't bark,..we get along very well, wherever I go he stayed beside me, watching tv, etc. never out in my sight. He got this funny face and bulging eyes, some kind of pitiful-compassion face expression.... I noted, he's attention seeker and jealousy.. he dislike I'm having visitors coming over my place...he " Fart " an offensive odour around my visitors, to let them know he not happy to see them ..and did it many occasion.

Posted by: aliane at September 3, 2008 9:41 AM

Oh my goodness! I have always been afraid that the adage owners/dogs lookalike .. after reading over some of your hilarious comments, I couldnt help but share my pup.
She is a pug x maltese and quite possibly the strangest looking dog you will ever see. She is the shape of a pug but is brindle in colour. She has the characteristic flat face, barrel shape with short legs and snores like a trooper!! I can assure you ALL that none of these describe me! ha ha ha
Thanks for letting me join in the blogs (first post) look forward to getting to know some of you a bit more :)

Posted by: kitikali at September 2, 2008 5:14 PM

I have two dogs, one is an 11 year old Staffy x Weimerana, and a 4 year old Tibetan Spaniel who resembles an orange skunk with a massive underbite lol~Marvin is quite aloof untill he decides that you're OK. But once he does he is very smoochy and affectionate. He's hilarious, his expression never changes you have to look at his ears to see what his mood is. He definately has a bit of an attidude.
My Staffy x girl is pretty tolerant of every kind of animal but is wary of strangers untill she gets to know them. She's so smart she seems to talks to me with her eyes. I have taught her to say 'harrow' lol.

I think maybe i am a little bit like both of my dogs -maybe not so much like Marvin in the looks department though lol god love him.

Posted by: cadence2 at September 2, 2008 8:38 AM

Chow chows. I remember one a female friend had as being extremely protective.
One of the original Grey wolf breeds, though not as bright as wolves. They were also called the Chinese butcher's dog and used for food and their dense fur for coats.
Cheers Marcus

Posted by: laughsandtalks at September 1, 2008 12:13 PM

MT - I can't imagine a ballet teacher looking like a St Bernard - a poodle, yes...or something petite and graceful...maybe a borzoi.. or even a saluki. I can imagine a Bavarian slapdancer looking like a St Bernard though :)

H2H, my dogs have stopped doing stinkies since I started making up their food at home, instead of tinned stuff.

Decoratress, what a mixture you have there!

Hi Peony- Cavs have such a lovely temperment!

Karen, of course they'll say they love you!

Perth, my border collie brings gifts too :)

Challenge, my Granny had a chow chow - I spent more time with the dog than with her!

Posted by: willow29 at September 1, 2008 10:51 AM

Very funny mostly - and some a bit too serious but hey it takes all sorts! I have two Chow Chows - Max who is nearly 11 and 32Kg and Murphy who is 10 and half and is 26kg; max is a smooth haired and very regal and aloof as all good chows are, Murphy is the 'Muppet' he is slower these days due to spinal issues but they both have wonderful lives and I enjoy them both very much - fantastic children dogs and very loyal - very quiet but have the most ferocious bark!

So I guess that about sums me up - Loyal, aloof - gregarious when I want to be, a bit of a muppet, good with kids and generally even mannered - to a point - overall I am a great companion!

Posted by: up2thechallenge at September 1, 2008 10:24 AM

Posted by: peony16 at August 31, 2008 3:21 AM . Welcome to you and well said.....spot on xx hi ya back

Posted by: amourmoi08 at September 1, 2008 12:35 AM

Posted by: musicteacher at August 31, 2008 1:35 PM - LMAO... Our dawgies were allowed in the bed on Sundays. How crass is it when your beloved pooch does a bottie-burp that is soooo bad that they can't stand it under the covers themselves, and slink off out into the lounge-room, leaving you frantically fumbling for some cologne and gasping for breath??? :)

Posted by: heart2heart57 at August 31, 2008 10:38 PM

Funny Willow...........and hear2heart:

i think it's funny when a dog farts and then barks at his bum!!!!

I love Cavs..I call them "Lady" dogs( "Lady and the tramp).

I had a ballet teacher once that had a Saint Bernard..........I kid you not.......the teacher also looked like a Saint Bernard....it was trully uncanny!

Posted by: musicteacher at August 31, 2008 1:35 PM

Vitara, your pooch will forever be your loyal friend after his rescue...
My two were both from the RSPCA pound in Pearcedale, chosen 6 months apart, and are the best of friends.....
What do they say about me??
That they love me of course.......
Although l think that Milly may ask to be taken off her diet, but that aint gonna happen..............K

Posted by: auntykaz at August 31, 2008 12:03 PM

What do my dogs say about me?

One is an EnglishBullTerrier & the other a Schnoodle (miniature schnauzer X toy poodle).
The schnoodle is roughly the size of the bully's head.. 2.9kg as against 23kg! They adore each other, Piglet often sleeping curled up on top of Angel's back.
Opposite in intelligence though. On the dog IQ test, the EnglishBullTerrier is right down there with chihuahuas.. sensational nature, but not gifted with the smarts. The schnoodle however, is the smartest dog I've ever owned, as well as the smallest.. show him a trick & he does it.. it's been a revelation!

This particular combination of breeds.. they're an odd couple.
hahaha..I think that says I'm a gemini!

Posted by: decoratress at August 31, 2008 10:54 AM

My big beautiful puppy welcomes people to our house with a little too much gusto sometimes and then leans up against them for the mandatory pat. She then races off to find a shoe to give to them, not a toy one of mine. She struts out with her neck arched like a little pony and presents them with their shoe. After a thanks you and another pat she wanders off to lay around and join in conversation. I was told by a fairly well known instructor that she is copying me, the welcome, either a hug or some kind of touch and then offer some kind of drink food etc. I don't know whether it's true but it sounded good to me. The one and only time I can't have my pup with me is when I dead head the roses because she watches and then helps and carefully bites all the flowers off and presents them happily to me as well. Who couldn't love a dog hey !

Posted by: iaminperth at August 31, 2008 10:33 AM

Perhaps dog walkers with multiple mutts just have multiple personalities??

I've really enjoyed reading all the posts here.

As this is my first post, I'd like to introduce myself & say Hi ... & let you know that I have a Blenheim Cavalier King Charles spaniel ... or I should say that he has me.

Cavs are so addictive that there really should be a 12 Step program because once one has been owned by a Cav, one Cav is never enough.

My little boy who is my third Cav, is my little shadow & my best little pal. Cavs really are very loyal & loving little pets, safe for all ages and they fit in beautifully with all energy levels. They are very safe dogs. I've never seen or heard of any Cav even looking like biting. I don't think they'd even know how. They also win hearts wherever they go - including those die hards who warn you immediately that they "don't like dogs!" in no uncertain manner.

So, what do the various breeds say about their owners??

Posted by: peony16 at August 31, 2008 3:21 AM

After a wild party, two bats awaken from their slumber in the cave, and the first bat (B1) says to the second bat (B2), "Mate, I'm hungry. Back in 5 - just gonna get us some breakfast". B2 waits in anticipation. A full hour later, B1 re-enters the cave all bloodied and dishevelled.

"Maaaaaaate... what happened to you?" asks B2. "Follow me, and I'll show you" says B1.

They dart around the cave towards the opening, and out into the wilderness, using their keen bat-radar. 30ft from the cave, B1 says to B2 "Now... see that big river gum coming up?"... B2: "Yep..." .. B1: "Well I frikken didn't!" :)

Posted by: heart2heart57 at August 30, 2008 1:27 AM

Nice joke Willow -(belly laugh) now you have taken my brain to various horse and sheep jokes that would alienate all our kiwi friends. Just an extrapolation from the topic - so if you have No dog - does that mean you are MUTe or a Nobody? Or do you have to get another animal to say something about you?... As I continue my ramblings, I believe a dog IQ test was run across breeds about 10 years ago - Shepherds and Labradors near the top - Afghans were rock bottom. (Damned if I know how they got them to hold the pencils? Perhaps the Afghans couldn't answer the questions about Don Bradman?) Can we get an IQ estimate by looking at someone walking a dog. And what about dog walkers with multiple muts - do they have multiple intelligences or are they just gifted?

Posted by: distinguishedgreying at August 30, 2008 1:21 AM

Stuart,now that is the tender side we all like to see :)

Distinguished, welcome - that's very wise of you - dogs should never divulge! You might relate to this j/k:

A man who is a ventriloquist walks into town and he sees this farmer sitting on the side of the road with his dog, horse, and sheep. The man walks up to the farmer and says, "Hey, that's a cool dog. Mind if I speak to him."
The farmer looks up at the man and says, "The dog doesnt talk."
But the man turns to the dog anyway and he says, "Hey dog. How's it going?"
The dog answers (via the man's ventriloquism), "Doin' all right. Thanks for asking."
"Is this your owner?", the man asks.
"Yep."
"Well, how's he treating you?"
The dog answers, "Real good. He walks me, he feeds me great food, he takes me to the lake to play."
The farmer is amazed at this point, and then the man asks if he can talk to his horse.
Again the farmer says, "horse doesnt talk."
But the man turns to the horse and says, "Hey horse. How's it going?"
The horse replies, "I 'm doing good."
"Is this your owner?", says the man.
"Sure is," answers the horse.
"Well how's he treating you?"
"Pretty good. Thanks for asking. He rides me regularly, he brushes me down, and keeps me in a nice warm stable with all the hay and straw I'd ever want."
The farmer is totally amazed, but when the man turns to the sheep, the farmer is clearly worried.
The man asks, "Mind if I talk to your sheep?"
To which the farmer answers, "SHEEP LIE!"

Posted by: willow29 at August 29, 2008 6:52 AM

My dog has been gagged and no longer says anything about me without first clearingt it with me...After a time, dogs and owners start looking like one another in a cosmic coordination...we both started out black and svelte, now... we remain svelte

Posted by: distinguishedgreying at August 29, 2008 12:07 AM

I am not sure what my 2 cats would say about me, cos over the past month both have been to the vet. I am fairly sure Roki would say that I am a right bastard. Twice now he has been there in a row, he has had a pill rammed down his throat, 2 injections in the back of the neck and a thermometer , you know where, and all his own fault, plus the ignominy of having half his tail shaved. All because he decided to let some other cat try to eat it.

But then he still sleeps with me so i am pretty sure he still loves me, although there is the expression........... dogs have masters, but cats have servants.

Posted by: unknownauthor at August 16, 2008 8:12 AM

HAVE HAD TO ADD TO THIS. He has been back to the vet , more injection more pills, more thermometers, and now to top it all off , 5 inches amputated due to the infection from that nasty cat from somewhere else.

I was going to rename him STUMPY, but thought that was more cruel that the operation.

Still he loves me and now eats out of my hand, and follows me around like a puppy.

I guess its all good.

Posted by: unknownauthor at August 28, 2008 11:52 PM

My Border Collies both love/loved playing with the hose, chasing the water. Bella also likes playing with water in buckets at times too.

My little cocker spaniel is a wonderful comfort, always so happy when I come home, especially so if she has been here for a longer time.

I nursed her back to health as a little sick puppy, rescued from the local pet store. The first week we went to the vet every day with bad worms and scabies! She was so tiny she could sit on my desk between me and the keyboard.

When I was living in surburbia with my ex and went away without my little dog, she aparently used to sit at the front door a lot of the time waiting for me to return.

After my ex admitted to the lies, cheating etc which obviously upset me the little doggie snubbed her completely and on one occasion bit her when I was away and she attempted to pick her up whilst she was waiting at the door!

That is love and loyalty... If only I could find that in a Girl...

Posted by: creativestuart at August 28, 2008 11:51 PM

Right now it's raining and my Border Collie Jack, is doing his usual Rain Dance. He just runs around, jumping up to the sky, snapping at the air, trying to 'bite' the rain. He runs in circles and does his 'happy bark' it's kind of like a "yipee" bark.

LOL...ok ok...some of you are laughing at me...but SOME of you know what I mean.

Does anybody elses dog, do a Rain Dance, or acts all cute around water, or the ocean?

Posted by: starryeyez at August 28, 2008 11:09 PM

blueyedblond at August 24, 2008 1:42 PM
the cast of the movie looks interesting. I am sure they will do the book justice

amourmoi08 at August 26, 2008 11:05 AM

glad to hear your little Snowy has recovered from the tick. Nasty little things.
Also glad amourmnoi jr is on the mend
((((hugs)))))

vitara - your story about the blue heeler was truly inspiring. You did a wonderful thing there and you have been rightly thanked by your foster child. I can only hope that her "real" owner got his comeupance from the authorities. But really bless you for that act of kindness

QG

Posted by: qualitygal1 at August 27, 2008 10:18 PM

'Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day'
Mary Ann - age 4

Posted by: willow29 at August 27, 2008 8:56 AM

Great story vitara. Dogs are great ..... they give so much.

Posted by: woodnwine at August 27, 2008 8:33 AM

Good on you Vitara - I reckon animals know when you've rescued them. Mine are all devoted and protective, even the horses, though I think Buddy. I can't say what I think of your ex-tenant. People who treat animals or children like that....

Posted by: willow29 at August 27, 2008 6:38 AM

I'm curious to see what fellow bloggers would make of this entry. My dog chose me... She's a blue heeler, abandoned by a tenant in a property I managed. She remained at the unfenced home for four days whilst I attended each evening to feed her. I left a different note for the absconding tenant each evening. He returned to collect extra clothes, tools, and personal effects, but never the dog. After the fourth day, I took her home. It was christmas time, the RSPCA was full of abandoned dogs, and even a short stay there would have been a death sentence. That was four years ago - she's my best friend, a fierce protector of my family, and a wonderful member of my farm community. Never chases the chooks or peacocks, or any native birds - but occassionally will chase down the horse in a game. I never liked blue heelers, always feared their "snappy" reputation, and had thought them overly active. She has never even looked like snapping at my six year old, (who at times gives her merry hell) and spends the majority of her day lounging on her sun bed.... go figure?

Posted by: vitara at August 26, 2008 10:45 PM

I often wonder why people buy a certain type of dog. Does it project their personailty, do they do it for praticality, are they trying to look tough (or loveable), or is it just pot luck?

Posted by: woodnwine at August 26, 2008 11:31 AM

Thanks for all the kind words and kisses that I received.

My son is well and back on the road to recovery as is my little Snowy.

He had a tick and was very ill but now back on the mend. xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Posted by: amourmoi08 at August 26, 2008 11:05 AM

My Lapso x toy poodle who is normally white is today black and feeling poorly:-(

Something he ate maybe or something tried to go him????

He had a great weekend and was the team mascot for my sons AFL on the weekend.

The team won and Snowy got more dog action that I will see in a lifetime!!!!!

Have a great day to you and all the dogs and wish our snowy, snowy, tiger, sterling, moi, moi and my son who is also feeling poorly a speedy recoevery xxoooo peace out

Posted by: amourmoi08 at August 25, 2008 6:26 AM

I have a Border Collie named Jack, who is my protector and best friend :)

Posted by: starryeyez at August 24, 2008 11:47 PM

Posted by: blueyedblond at August 24, 2008 1:46 PM - I'll pay that one... LoL

Posted by: heart2heart57 at August 24, 2008 3:29 PM

heart2heart57. My 6' son walks his partners Chihuahua x foxy, pink lead and jacket. He says she is such a chick magnet.

Posted by: blueyedblond at August 24, 2008 1:46 PM

I love reading the stories about your dogs. I have posted about the gorgeous Beagle I share custody of with my youngest son. He lives in Melbourne and I spend the winter house-sitting in Queensland. This is a wonderful way to have your pet looked after in their own home while you go away. A beautiful brindle Stuffy was the first dog I looked after and he was just a delight and such a sook. The first sound of thunder and he was beside me snuggling up wherever I happened to be. What a gentleman he was. He stood up when I entered the room and as soon as I sat down so did he. Then there was Hugo the stupid Poodle who terrorised Gracie the elderly Siamese cat, 4 weeks later Hugo had learned that dogs and cats can live together happily. The owners couldn't believe how well they got along. Rexy the very regal Weimaraner came next, what a gentle soul. I still visit him whenever I am in Brisbane and will look after him again next year when his owner is away. Jemma the bitsa and Jarrod the Lab were next. What a pair of characters. They roamed the yard till about 4.30, they came inside and stood in front of the unlit fire until I lit it, and didn't move until it was time for bed.
The house I am in at the moment is on a canal on the Gold Coast and has a cat, but my pleasure is feeding the Pelicans. Did you know that they can be trained? When I arrived 2 weeks ago they used to come to the back door to be fed, pooping all over the paving. Now they sit on the fence, wait for me to bring the food down to the fence, and they are happy to be fed on the sand. I still have a Doberman and 2 little fluffy things to look after until I go home for Xmas and get to spend time with my beautiful Barnaby B Beagle.
I am waiting for the movie called “Marley and Me”. If you get a chance to read the book do so.

Posted by: blueyedblond at August 24, 2008 1:42 PM

Posted by: willow29 at August 24, 2008 10:54 AM - I see, 'gay dog, gay man'? What does that say about a 6'2 man walking a chihuahua on a red leash? LoL

Posted by: heart2heart57 at August 24, 2008 11:33 AM

I have had hunting dogs most of my life, German shorthaired Pointers, Hungarian vizslas, Weimaranars, Bluetick coonhounds, Foxhounds & Jack Russall Terriers, All were great dogs, I can not remember a point in my life when I did not have a dog or more :)

Posted by: outbackdrifter at August 24, 2008 11:26 AM

Sometimes people get a dog as an extension of their personality - ie tough man, tough dog. I guess the dog shattered his "macho" image. vbg.

(or maybe it revealed too much of his true character!!)

Posted by: willow29 at August 24, 2008 10:54 AM

Posted by: guiltypleasure at August 24, 2008 7:07 AM Sounds like the amorous trans-gender Staffy could do with a decent dose of bromide... lmao

Posted by: heart2heart57 at August 24, 2008 10:44 AM

Good story, guiltypleasures, our dogs can certainly amuse us and at times embarrass us as well.

My lab goes nuts when we go to the beach, charges in and out of the water shaking herself out then back into it willy nilly.
My ridgeback staffy, now he is a pampered prince when it comes to the water. Well thats what he looks like anyway. He doesn't like getting even his paws wet and will gingerly pop a paw in the water then shake his whole body out when finished, even though it is only the paw that got damp!!
His calling card at the beach is to, ummm delicate wording required here, leave several "parcels" in the sand, along the boardwalk, in the carpark, anywhere, so it is mandatory to carry plastic bags when taking him to the beach.
I have so enjoyed reading all of the positive and interesting stories about peoples doggies, they are such an important part of our lives, aren't they, and an integral part of my family...........................K

Posted by: auntykaz at August 24, 2008 10:20 AM

Have a soon-to-be 9 year old lab and a 2 year old border collie x kelpie. Both female.

When I separated, my first decision was to bring the dog into the house (my husband had banished her to the backyard). She put her head in my lap and pretty much kept it there for the next six months.

These days,we go for long walks on our local dog friendly beach. The lab and I walk along together in companionable silence, while the collie pup gallops insanely in and out of the water and makes futile attempts to round up everyone on the beach. I spend all my time with her laughing, but she is sensationally good at prompting conversations with strangers, so I never get away without talking to at least one person. Dogs are brilliant conversation starters.

When not at the beach, I am blessed to be near a dog park, where dogs and their owners happily mingle off-leash. Canine and humans are encouraged to be social there. One day, a young man arrived in a hotted-up ute, wearing a muscle shirt and accompanied by a young male muscular staffy.

The dog promptly ran over to the other male pooches and proceeded with the nose to tail greeting, then immediately started to hump the male dog. The owner was horrified and called him away, only to watch as the dog went over to the next male dog and tried to hump it!

After I stopped laughing, I said the first thing that came to mind: "Well, there are homosexuals in the animal kingdom too". The man gave me a look of death and called his happy dog back to the ute and roared off. I've never seen him since.

Posted by: guiltypleasure at August 24, 2008 7:07 AM

Posted by: heart2heart57 at August 22, 2008 11:35 PM

Maybe they were the smart ones, just lazing around while all the other dogs wore themselves out running about :))

Same goes for guarding duties - quite content to let my german shepherd attend to all the barking and aggro !!!

Posted by: jenjen57 at August 23, 2008 7:40 PM

Hmmm.. JenJen... not good guard-dogs you say? I bet they would change their tune if they sensed someone was trying to hurt you - they do love their masters yanno.

Had to laugh about the 'slug' comment - I'd say they're bloody smart, even intellectual, rather than lazy. Let the other dumb dawgies fetch the stick, chase the ball, and do all that other 'dog' stuff - well just sit back here and have a good chuckle... LoL.

Posted by: heart2heart57 at August 22, 2008 11:35 PM

Posted by: wrapt at August 20, 2008 7:30 PM

My daughter has two Alaskan Malmutes. They are sisters but look completely different, and have completely different natures also.
They are both slugs, and when we take them to the dog park they are quite content to just lie there and watch the other dogs run around - so much for the "sledding lessons" my daughter wants to take them to !!!
They are also both totally useless as guard dogs but very affectionate and friendly.
And I dont really think my daughter realised when she got them as babies (they are now 10 months old) how much they would eat and how much washing and brushing they would need !!

Posted by: jenjen57 at August 22, 2008 9:16 PM

Well done Amber - sounds as though your perseverence has paid off.

Posted by: willow29 at August 22, 2008 6:57 PM

LOL, Marcus! As long as they didn't hang down too far below your "tail" you should've been safe!!

I had a black kelpie x from the time she was a puppy. She was a lovely dog but sadly got run over early last September aged 81/2 years when I left the side gate open while cleaning out the car.
I wanted to get another dog, but thought I would like to give an unwanted dog a home, (Tasha was an unwanted puppy) so went to the animal shelter up at Moorook in the Riverland.
I had never wanted one of those white fluffy dogs, but this little one looked so anxious and sad. He has an awful overbite (probably the result of some indiscriminate backyard breeding for profit, I suspect) and his coat was all matted, he kept lookig at me with pleading eyes and I felt sorry for him, so I brought him home.
He was fine for a few days, then turned into a miniature version of Cujo!
Jumped on the couch, then started snarling and growling when he was told to get off, snarled and growled when he was sent outside!(I had to leave a lead on him to get him off the couch and I found a pushing him out the door with the broom was the safest for me!) A visit to the vets to get his mats removed, was interesting to say the least and resulted in one very ugly bald dog after a full anaesthetic!
I was all set to take him back, but the vet seemed to think he had been seriously mistreated, so I persevered.
The vet suggested desexing him might help to cure some of his aggression. (That damn testsosterone again, Marcus!) So that was done and I kept just gently but firmly insisting he did as he was told, whether he liked it or not.
Amazingly, he gradually started changing and now the vet can't recognise him as the same dog. Last visit he didn't need to be muzzled and he recently had a full clip and blowdry without any trouble at all! (Mind you it was a lady and she is used to dealing with difficult dogs!)

The fact he is only a small dog helped, I don't think I would have even risked it with a larger dog. I needed to be mindful of my son and older daughter's safety!
Whether he was allowed to become a "pack leader" dog because he was so cute (I've heard this happens a lot with smaller dogs) and his owners decided to try to belt the "bossiness" out of him, or he was just treated cruelly and learned to be aggressive to defend himself, I don't know. However he has settled in so well and now loves all my kids, even my older boys whom he would not let come near him when I first brought him home. I also have a great sense of achievement as well!
Hopefully we will have quite a number of happy years with him!

Posted by: amberlight58 at August 22, 2008 12:07 PM

Girlfriend I met here a couple of years ago had a male foxy cross.
Not long after I met her she said he'd been taken for a 'special' visit to the vet. When I asked why she had his balls removed she answered "because I didn't like the look of them when I was walking him". Needless to say I took great care with positioning on our remaining outings.
Cheers Marcus

Posted by: laughsandtalks at August 22, 2008 7:38 AM

Whippet's. 2 of. Mother and daughter. And when they died, so did a piece of me. The most gorgeous, human-like animals I've ever known. If you were sad, they somehow knew. Would come up to you, sit on your lap, and rest their head against yours. RIP Sam and Rosie... With Dad now. xxx

Posted by: heart2heart57 at August 22, 2008 12:19 AM

Aqueous, Im guessing you take them out every time they wake up, eat, etc? There are some toilet sheets you can get to put in tray. Maybe put the tray near the door and gradually move it outside?

My Reggie was totally toilet trained until Pepe came along, now it is very smelly in the house. I take them out, they come inside and do their thing straight away. I am taking them to doggy boot camp next month,

this and their escape artist tricks are getting me down. Mind you they do keep the folks at the RSL and the Senior Cits across the road from it entertained. They so do not have road sense though, I get scared to death when they disappear.

Talking about "dog friendly" towns, Daylesford, a great spa country holiday place, not only has "gay friendly" signs on most shops, it has "dog friendly" signs up too. It is so cool to be able to wonder round all these lovely shops with the dogs in tow, and having chats with their new acquaintances along the way.

Daylesford always was a favourite place for me - and this innovation makes it my no 1 short break destination.

It also has the BEST dog friendly accom with the doggies allowed inside.

Posted by: qualitygal1 at August 21, 2008 1:41 AM

What does my dog say about me? I'm a mad woman! Who else would take on two huskies!

Actually my original girl who we lost when she was 12, was the most gorgeous dog, very gentle and protective of her "human pack". They say Huskies are terrible guard dogs but she protected us very well.

Sakari, we got from the same breeders and I (foolishly) expected the same temperament. Her nickname is "PsychoDog" but we love her dearly. She has such a joy and exuberance for life.

Number 2, Elly was a rescue dog, I can't believe that someone dumped her. We've had her for just under a year now. She's another gentle soul, incredibly loving.We were very lucky, the two of them hit it off straight away and are best of friends (and mischief makers).

I didn't actually take them to work but they did dig their way under the fence one day and ended up entertaining everyone at the local nursing home! How many others have "Great Escape" dogs??

Posted by: wrapt at August 20, 2008 7:30 PM

All these dog breeds and mixtures.
All descended from the Grey wolves that once scavenged human camp sites and became tame.
There is a famous experiment a Russian animal researcher performed with Silver foxes. He bred these pricked eared, silver grey coated, timid wild animals and picked the most human friendly cubs from each litter. After 20 years his foxes had floppy ears, wagged their tails and their fur had changed to black and white with a human friendly white face. They looked and behaved like Border collies.
Cheers Marcus

Posted by: laughsandtalks at August 20, 2008 6:15 PM

My dog was playing with a groodle at the beach the other day. I asked the owner what the........is a groodle. It is a golden retriever poodle and what a beautiful dog it is. Has beautiful luxurious golden hair long and glossy and prances around like a poodle. Beautiful temperament as well. My shepherd and the groodle were looking very smick together I can tell you !

Posted by: iaminperth at August 19, 2008 10:24 PM

espritlibrefemme August 19, 2008 1:33 PM
Be pretty important that your cavoodle got on well with various men wouldn't it? ;-}
nakedblogger

Posted by: laughsandtalks at August 19, 2008 6:18 PM

I have taken my dogs to work now and then, part of the Eden Philosophy of plants, animals and children that many Aged Care Facilities now embrace.
The first time l took them Zack (being the male that he is) "marked" his turf on one of the pillars at the entrance to our Extra Services Wing. right in front of residents.

They are now much more settled when they visit, about once a fortnight, and the oldies love to see them.

Musicteacher, l love Ridgebacks they are such a beauitful breed, Zack is a very special dog to me, and l am glad that he was available that day at the RSPCA for us..................K

Posted by: auntykaz at August 19, 2008 5:04 PM

Kyzza - what a mixture!

Posted by: willow29 at August 19, 2008 4:34 PM

Wow, i thinkj my dog would say i am one confused person...

I have my little man, my gentle giant and my best friend, Burnstar, who is my 100kg 2 yr old saitn bernard & i also have my cause to my nervous breakdowns, an extreme handfull who i wouldnt swap for the worl Magic, he is a small breed chocolate chihuahua weighing approximatly 3 kilos... They are my little boys dont know what i would do without them!

Posted by: kyzza82 at August 19, 2008 3:05 PM

I agree MT and am not at all offended. Getting full breeds is even harder and more costly. Some of the best dogs I have had were mongrels, gorgeous things. Trouble is that all dogs available outside the boutiquery industry in Brissie seem to have cattle dog staring out at you and I ain't going there.
And Willow, she is black, jsut like Beth, my little black poodle. She is very feisty and has heaps of confidence, which really is fantastic!

Posted by: espritlibrefemme at August 19, 2008 1:33 PM

How very true, Sincrolad!

Posted by: willow29 at August 19, 2008 1:22 PM

You take a good woman by the heart simply by having a dog on a lead and taking a child by the hand.

Posted by: sincrolad at August 19, 2008 1:11 PM

Marcus I have never before in the blogs criticised you for your provocativeness, but really, that was a test of patience.

Perth, I would love to take my dogs to work!

Aqueous, Im guessing you take them out every time they wake up, eat, etc? There are some toilet sheets you can get to put in tray. Maybe put the tray near the door and gradually move it outside?

Esprit, your cavoodle sounds gorgeous. What colour is she? Cavs are the ultimate family pet.

Posted by: willow29 at August 19, 2008 10:55 AM

Hi esprit....love your new name..........

your cavoodle used to be called a mongrel,then a cross..now they have fancy names with fancy prices....I am sure she is beautiful....

Please don't take offence! and i have yet to see a "labradoodle" that loooks good when it has reached it's full size....

Kaz.........did you know that the Rhodesian Ridgeback was used to defend families from lions? There is something so special about these dogs and they are so great with kids.

Honestly,I love dogs and they can tell......dogs like young children can sense a person.....

Posted by: musicteacher at August 19, 2008 10:52 AM

I misread this as 'What does your blog say about you?'

Posted by: margie18 at August 19, 2008 10:36 AM

A doggy dilemma - As i have mentioned before, my dogs are siblings. As such, they were house trained together. Now Mocha is perfect, always uses the doggy door, never makes a mess except for the occasional grass regurgitation but Latte has issues, sometimes with the winter rain, sometimes with the doggy door, anything it seems to avoid relieving herself outside. At this stage i've given up. She would never make a mess in my presence, she knows what she should do but just doesn't want to. Cleaning the floors with vinegar has not deterred her. No other ammonia based products are used. Just wondering if anyone has a suggestion or knows of a citronella non ammonia based cleaner.

Posted by: aqueousdb66 at August 18, 2008 11:05 PM

laughsandtalk, I think keeping the dog secured at night would have been a better alternative. The dog was doing what came naturally, it was up to the owner to to be responsible and not let it escape to kill sheep.
I too ask WHY would you even think of sharing that story with us????

Posted by: blueyedblond at August 18, 2008 10:39 PM

I wish you had kept that to yourself laughs and talks. I would sleep better without that awful image around in my imagination.
My new cavoodle is now getting used to her new name of Gypsy. I wonder what the name I have chosen for her says about me? I think she understands how important being a bohemian traveller in life is going to be for her, and so she is free to give and receive unconditional love...and will never, ever, ever take a trip in the back of a truck...even with sheep killers there are more humane ways to help a dog move on. If you pay for a dog, for its upkeep, surely paying a vet to help it move on is not too much to give it at the end?

Posted by: espritlibrefemme at August 18, 2008 10:22 PM

laughsandtalk, thank you for sharing that with us but I have one question............WHY

Posted by: outbackdrifter at August 18, 2008 8:40 PM

....in Berlin,in the first restaurant i went to(which happened to be a Licensed Chinese Restaurant)....a young couple came into the restaurant with a cute puppy,about 12 weeks old.....immediately the owner/manager brought a bowl of water for the puppy.I was stunned.This was INSIDE a pretty flashy Chinese Restaurant,in a fairly average suburb in the former East Berlin.....I was soon bumping into dogs in the strangest places.....that is....everywhere.

Posted by: musicteacher at August 18, 2008 8:36 PM

I asked if I could take my dog to work with me when I work on Saturday and the answer was no. People are allowed to take their kids though and they have to be entertained and cleaned up after and have cds and movies brought in for them. All my pooch needs is a drink of water and a walk at lunchtime. I thought it was a great idea but management did not. Oh dear, never mind, we'll get over it I'm sure.

Posted by: iaminperth at August 18, 2008 8:18 PM

31 years ago in Ararat my mate Micks 3 yo shepherd went missing one night and came home early the next morning. A couple of months later he slipped the chain and did the same. Came back next morning. Soon after there was a phone call and a fuss.
"Come on mate were going out the bush" He jumped in the back of the van and over we went to the Common.
"OK down boy" Bang. A .243 bullet through the back of the skull. We dug the hole in silence. No more sheep killing.
Cheers Marcus

Posted by: laughsandtalks at August 18, 2008 8:13 PM

musicteacher, I know my ex was German & I really would like Australia to more like Germany.
We seem to have a real problem with dogs in this country

Posted by: outbackdrifter at August 18, 2008 7:57 PM

Dogs are allowed almost anywhere and are EVERYWHERE in Germany!!!!! Trains,buses,ferries,Resaurants.The Germans LOVE their dogs!

Posted by: musicteacher at August 18, 2008 7:35 PM

sincrolad: @ 4.10 pm

You took the words right out of my mouth!

Posted by: musicteacher at August 18, 2008 7:27 PM

Today I picked up my new black cavoodle little girl. She will make a good companion for my 10 year old little black miniature poodle, Beth. She is following Beth around everywhere, I think she thinks Beth is her mother. Beth is being very tolerant! I must find a new name for the newcomer little lady, born on the fourth of July and 'singing' all the time she is awake, feisty and spirited and walking around with a tail wagging, already looking like she owns the place....well, maybe she does, it is her home. There is such a special new spirit in this house now.

Posted by: espritlibrefemme at August 18, 2008 7:17 PM

Pets & for me dogs makes us see what we are not what we think we are :)

Posted by: outbackdrifter at August 18, 2008 6:51 PM

How true, Drifter! and Sincrolad, I quite agree. I watched "Talk to the Animals" last night and it was celebrities and their pets. Pets are such levellers!

Posted by: willow29 at August 18, 2008 6:08 PM

Willow, that is a nice thought...........K

Posted by: auntykaz at August 18, 2008 5:07 PM

A Dogs Soul.
Every dog must have a soul
Somewhere deep inside
Where all his hurts and grievances
Are buried with his pride.

Where he decides the good and bad,
The wrong way from the right,
And where his judgement carefully
Is hidden from our sight.

A dog must have a secret place
Where every thought abides,
A sort of close acquaintance that
He trusts in and confides.

And when accused unjustly for
Himself, He cannot speak,
Rebuked, He finds within his soul
The comfort he must seek.

He'll love, tho'he is unloved,
And he'll serve tho'badly used,
And one kind word will wipe away
The times when he's abused.

Altho' his heart may break in two
His love will still be whole,
Because God gave to every dog
An understanding Soul!

Author Unknown

Posted by: outbackdrifter at August 18, 2008 4:34 PM

They clearly make you a better person. They are also a catalyst to make you see more clearly what other people are like....people can be most jealous of the bond one has with their fury companion....and such folk wonder why they desperately seek and cannot find the same bond anywhere in the world,.... should we really waste our time having to explain something to such people, something thats really all so plain to see?

Posted by: sincrolad at August 18, 2008 4:10 PM

A cross-over of two blogs...

Dogs don't know about beginnings, and they don't speculate on matters that occurred before their time. Dogs also don't know — or at least don't accept — the concept of death. With no concept of beginnings or endings dogs probably don't know that for people having a dog as a life companion provides a streak of light between two eternities of darkness.

Stanley Coren

Posted by: willow29 at August 18, 2008 3:04 PM

I don't even want to think about it. Please no more losing animal stories!

Posted by: willow29 at August 18, 2008 1:43 PM

Yes, I was quite misty eyed as I wrote those memories of Arnold.

ps. That brown snake also died.

Posted by: egernia at August 18, 2008 1:32 PM

Oh, poor Arnold. It is so terribly sad when a loved pet dies. They are a source of so much affection and innocent fun.

Posted by: iaminperth at August 18, 2008 12:44 PM

I used to have a Labrador X named Arnold. He was the runt of the litter and had to be given steroids to survive. He grew to be a gentle giant. When I was at my desk he would come and nudge my side and I would move back from my desk just so he could rest his head in my lap.
He was bitten by a brown snake and died.

Posted by: egernia at August 18, 2008 12:26 PM

Whenever anyone comes to our house my dog greets them and then runs off to find a shoe. She prances out so proudly with a shoe, usually one of mine, and gives it to the person who is visiting. She has always done this right from puppyhood and it's just part of who she is. She has never chewed or damaged any shoes but we do have to look at times for matching ones. A dog trainer told me once that she has watched me make a cup of coffee/tea/whatever and given it to a guest so she has done the same, only her 'gift' is a shoe. Who knows, it's just an act of kindness from a lovely big gsd.

Posted by: iaminperth at August 18, 2008 9:29 AM

What does my dog say about me?
Woof!

Posted by: woodnwine at August 18, 2008 8:45 AM

bm1960 at. August 16, 2008 9:32 PM . Ditto the ears and food. Roam is an understatement. When Barney was young the front door had to be guarded with your life. We had to make sure the dog was away from the door or he would force his way past you and be off down the street. . Lead and treats in hand we would take off after him. Age has slowed him down a little bit but if he thinks he can escape he will.

Posted by: blueyedblond at August 17, 2008 7:16 PM

I own a beautiful Fox Terrier which i love to bits but is the bain of my life at times. He is faithful and loving, so much so that I ask my boys to take him away from me at itmes to give me space. He also is the escape artist supreme so I have to watch him like a hawk. He jumps and he digs, but only to go a socialise with others when he has not been the centre of attention at home.

Dogs are like children though, you always need to plan when going anywhere, and you can't take them to all places. Even when you leave them at home, someone needs to babysit them.lol.

But they are just animals after all and have their place....In our hearts and in our homes...

Posted by: blondeattimes at August 16, 2008 11:52 PM

My two american bulldogs, Pepsi and Mack keep me and the cat on our toes. They begin dribbling at even a whiff of food, and aren't exactly the most attractive breed, so bear no resemblance to me. They live inside mostly and have all of us wrapped around their little paws (though at 35 and 50 kilos, their paws are not actually that small). They've been with me for over 5 years and seen me through lots of good and bad times and I wouldn't be without them, even though as a full time student vets bills and all the rest can be expensive. But I'm sure I don't need to tell any of you about that.

Posted by: pepsimack at August 16, 2008 10:10 PM

Yes my dog says much about me and my family.

He is child like, he ia always in chewing on something he shouldn't.

Is in love with all the other dogs in the street.

Thinks he is a doberman when he is clearly not.

Thinks he is a woman when clearly he is not.

Is friendly to all other dogs and always smells hello.

Is playful and cheeky and all things good.

Runs to the door to greet everyone with his tail wailing around that sometimes I think he will fly away.

Thinks he is an all round sportsman worthy of the Olympics try out.

Has the manners of his family and always hides his tail between his legs when he has done wrong and will sit outside without question or barking until he is forgiven for eating out of the bin or chewing on brand new shoes that his mother only just bought and took of her weary legs 10 seconds ago.

Is good with all children, sociable, outgoing,

He is part of our family and we rescued him from a poor dog owner prior to us adopting him.

We just had high tea the other day with all the other dogs in the street for his first birthday and in return they all serviced his needs and went home to thier masters, tired, full tummies and happy dogs..xxxxx

We love our snowy snowy, tiger, sterling, moi, moi.

We couldn't pick just one name so he has one for each of the his little funny ways.

Peace out xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Posted by: amourmoi08 at August 16, 2008 10:09 PM

I adore beagles myself.....I don't have gorgeous big ears like they do, but I do love food and am similar to them inasmuch as they are known to be a breed that likes to roam....:-)
Cheers,
B.

Posted by: bm1960 at August 16, 2008 9:32 PM

I have a 3 year old puppy named Chloe. She is very pretty, merle in colour (grey with black splotches), very disobedient, very loving and a complete pain at times! Life with a great dane is messy, imperfect and a whole lot of fun!

Posted by: kittenheelsxx at August 16, 2008 5:12 PM

Dogs offer you the benefit of the doubt,
whereas cats sit in judgement.
Dogs remain mans best ever friend,
Cats are loyal only unto themselves.

Posted by: sincrolad at August 16, 2008 4:24 PM

Posted by: blueyedblond at August 16, 2008 11:55 AM

They are trialing a trained Britanny in England to detected some cancers in humans

Posted by: outbackdrifter at August 16, 2008 3:31 PM

Malsie, I know how you feel. Its getting harder and harder for me to leave mine.

Posted by: willow29 at August 16, 2008 2:25 PM

My dog is a bull terrier/red heeler cross. I don't