Nose Butter..What The Heck?

Once upon a time, in a land so far far away, Minnesota, I mixed a batch of pure, unrefined Shea Butter with some essential oils and slathered it on my itchy, dry summer feet and legs. I trotted into my office and sat down in front of my trusty Mac. The next thing I knew a horde of leg licking, toe tickling French Bulldogs were attacking every inch that had been buttered! It tickled, yet felt strangely good, hmmm, I digress. Anyway, the creaky wheels began to turn and the light bulb popped on! “Hey, I bet this would be good for their noses!” I exclaimed! Not quite a EUREKA moment, but close.

Before you could say greased Frenchie, I had added some Vitamin E Oil, a healthy dash of lavender therapeutic grade essential oils (Young Living, of course) and a spritz of Blissful Dog Vibrational Essences (just for extra love). I was soon buttering up every nose I saw. Even the ones that loathe having anything done to them ran forward to get buttered up. THEY LOVED IT!

After the amazing successful of our Frenchie Nose Butter, we felt compelled to branch out into other breeds. It would just be wrong to not let other flat faced dogs have soft, pliant nose leathers.

EZBoy’s REHAB

EZBoy and I are still in Crystal Lake, Il with Kelly. We visited TOPS Veterinary Rehabilitation Clinic twice this past week. FIRST…we met our dear friend Kathi Luljak and her girl, Demi, and got to see Demi do her exercises. Demi was down in a swim tank and walking on a treadmill. We could even see her feet as she walked via an underwater camera.

The first visit, we met with Laurie MacCauley, DVM and she came him an uber-complete examination. He was measured, his range of flexibility was checked, every muscle was poked and prodded and examined. His spine was checked vertebrae by vertebrae and carefully noted. Then came the good word…he WILL absolutely be able to walk again!  

His muscles that are for walking are in great shape and the muscles that are used to STABILIZE him when he does stand up are NOT. So, we will be doing a series of exercises to strengthen his stabilizer muscles and get him walking! He also was fitted with carpal braces to keep his feet pointed the front way and to force him to get his back legs up under him and to…walk! Then he got a complete acupuncture session and it really helped him get up on his feet better and better. THEN he got to do his swimming therapy.

EZBoy’s Wheels

You are probably wondering what is up with THOSE classy wheels??? Well, I had shopped for wheels for him and was shocked, and saddened, at how expensive they are. No offense to the dedicated people who make and sell doggy wheelcarts…So, I put my proverbial thinking cap, ok, I Googled around and wahlah or however you spell that…oh yeah, Voila, and there I found it! Plans for a do-it-yourself wheeled cart for Dachshunds. With just a few modifications I knew it would be perfect for EZBoy!.

Almost two years ago, at Frenchie Fun Camp (that is another post), we decided to make a cart for EZBoy. We had seen the carts that were around $500 and I was sure that our creative group could make one for him. I Googled around and found plans for a cart on a Dachshund site. It was made of PVC and odds and ends…a MacGyvered dog wheelchair…just my style!

So, each of us Mary, Carol, Kathi and Ellen took a part of the cart and got to work! That way, we could all have a part in it. Carol and Mary cut the PVC (I am not allowed to use sharp objects). Kathi and Ellen figured out the velcro and I found some wheels. Talk about it takes a village!

 

 

An inordinately long period of time was spent measuring EZBoy and comparing the shape of a French Bulldog body to that of a Dachshund…talk about apples and oranges! We knew, from many hours of watching various hunky guys on HGTV and DIY Network, that we needed to measure twice and cut once.

Far be it from US to defy hunky Home Improvement Show Dudes…so we measured and measured. Then… Carol grabbed the saw and cut away! Before you knew it, we had pieces of PVC lying about and the next step was upon us. GLUING!

I stepped up and announced that I knew how to glue the PVC together…I grabbed that heinous smelling purple stuff and got after it. Yep, we were makin’ a cart! Eleen, who works as a costume designer for various theater groups (she gets paid to make doll clothes for people and then add glitter to everything), grabbed the super duper industrial strength Velcro we had obtained and proceeded to work her magic. She moaned and groaned about not having glitter braid or anything else decorative to adorn the velcro with. We assured her that EZBoy would not mind. I think he was relieved at escaping the glitter demon.

Hmmm, can EZBoy WALK?

Like I mentioned, we just do not have access to a physical therapist for dogs here in the big woods, but we have been working with him. Like using the Young Living Oils. As time has gone by, we noticed him using more and more of his back legs…but mostly to balance. Like when he eats, he stands four square and eats or drinks! He takes these funny steps and often pivots around (that is fun to watch).

But he never seemed to try and WALK. This summer, one of our guests who is a physical therapist (for people), did an exam of him and said that he HAS the muscularity to be able to walk again…he just does not TRY. Now to people that seems insane…if we could walk why wouldn’t we! But to a little dog, who only lives in the NOW, why bother!

EZBoy probably figures that he gets around just fine, thank you very much, and would have to go s…l…o…w to learn to walk all over again, so he would rather scoot!

EZBoy…Scrappy Dude

 Yep, that is EZBoy running (scooting) away from me today. He slipped past me and took off to play in the snow!

EZBoy is still a scrappy, bossy, ECW kinda little dog. He might be little and paralyzed, but he does not back down from anybody! We have decided he is like one of those crazy Frill Necked Lizards that puffs up and chase great big other animals to make them think they are tough. He puts on his CRAZY FACE and goes after any dog that LOOKS at his food bowl, walks NEAR his food bowl, or THINKS about eating EZBoy’s food….

Now Money, who has at least ten pounds on EZBoy is terrified of him and goes to great lengths to not come near EZBoy. Money will walk all around the house in a huge loop, around the back of the fireplace to not get anywhere near that crazy crippled dog. Sometimes EZBoy will wait and HIDE and jump out and chase Money! I know it is not very “PC” but we laugh and laugh as EZBoy chases Money (who by now is yelping) around and around the house.

Steve always teases Money about that crazy crippled dogs kicking his ass…ahhh, the winters are long up here and we take our laughs and entertainment where we can get them. Oh, no French Bulldogs were harmed in the making of this post.

EZBoy SCOOTS….

The hardest part of letting EZBoy scoot around the house was letting his little feet callous up. We tried soft socks and these rubber dog boots and he scooted them off. Yes, vet wrap, everything…but this little guy would not stand for any of that sissy stuff. So, he scooted around and made callouses on the top of his back feet. I guess like we have to get those tender winter feet ready to go barefoot in the summer!

EZBoy also has several methods for his famous scoot. When he is just bebopping around the house, he does this penguin waddle…not so fast and he kinda rolls from side to side. That earned him the nickname Flip Flop. When he cranks it up a notch he becomes Bouncey Bounce Bounce and makes pretty good speed around the humble abode. Then turbo power kicks in and I swear, he levitates and just FLIES like something on a Star Wars movie. The greatest part is that he grins from ear to ear as he tears across the yard or the beach. I cannot catch him when he is at FULL SCOOT…ok, I am a chubby 52 year old woman, so I am not moving at warp speed, but he is FAST.

EZBoy Continued…

 Today I will chat about some of the things we did to work with EZBoy in the initial stages of his recovery. Once the incision had healed and stitches were out, we started letting him scoot around more to keep his muscles toned. He lost quite a bit of weight (for a little dog) and it was so sad to see this buff little guy (picture is before all this) lose his rear end muscularity. But, he never, not once ever wavered in his brilliantly optimistic attitude. He would look up at us and just grin from ear to ear!

EZBoy had lost all use of his rear end at this time, so we would put a towel under his middle and walk him all around the house encouraging him to use his legs. We (ok, I did all this, but it sounds better to say we-hahaha) also filled the tub every day and floated him, letting him use his back legs. Actually, at this stage, they just floated, but it gave him a nice bath.

As you might have guessed EZBoy was, and is, incontinent. Of course, he scoots of any of the myriad of belly bands and diaper-like products we have tried and earned quite a few nicknames. Snail Trail is my favorite! Yeah, we mop a lot…

We also used my BooBoo Butter on his back, massaging in extra essentail oils. I also used Young Living Oil’s Raindrop Therapy and did essential oil massages along his spine.

EZBoy…Our Blissful Dog Mascot

 

EZ Boy, CH. Meneer Jackpot! Du Petit Fripon was a happy, scrappy, healthy French Bulldog until one day about two years ago. He just did not get up one morning. Nothing dramatic, no injury, we will probably never know, he just could not stand on his rear legs.

All we know is he went to bed with his BFF Nink Nink and was paralyzed the next morning. So, we rushed him to the vet who gave him a shot of pred and told us to call the University of MN if he did not get better. The next am, he was no better, so I called the U and was saddened by their complete lack of a sense of urgency about EZBoy’s condition. I had heard of another vet in Duluth who did spinal surgery, as this is a VERY specialized surgery, just like in people. I called Dr. Dougherty and he cleared his schedule for the following morning and told me to get right in. That made us feel soooo good. Dr. Dougherty was so very kind and had an amazing crate-side manner.

So, we opened a charge card (sigh) and EZBoy and I zipped the four hours over to Duluth. He had his surgery and was back in just a few days. It was one heckuva surgery and I was pretty horrified by the extent of the incision – yikes – looks like some bad plastuc surgery I have seen on a few people. Anyway, I kept him quiet beside my desk for the recommended time and then EZBoy let me know he was ready to be FREE!

EZBoy started scooting around like some deranged Sci-Fi channel creature…all over the house and FAST! It was shocking to be honest…he could out run me! No jokes, please!

EVIL French Bulldogs…Yes…EVIL!

It is still pretty dismal outside here…some snow, lots of mud and kinda just dreary. But we actually had a nice sunny day and the temps were in the 40s. So I decided to bring the Frenchies out and let them play while I fed the alpacas. What was I thinking? Of course, Money, Mudd and EZBoy stayed right beside me, like good little dogs.

Nink Nink and Favor were a bit farther away than I wanted, but I was watching them as I threw hay and chatted with the alpacas…then in the blink of an eye, I did not see those two! I called their names and did not see any movement or fat Frenchie bodies against the snow in the area they had run off to.

So, I hustled the three GOOD dogs back into the house and started looking! I stumbled through the snow, calling their names and I valiantly tracked them back into the woods. I was pretty proud of myself for even thinking to track them. I felt ever-so Davy Crockett! Then I saw bear tracks and that was it…they were on their own.

I beat feet back to the house and told Steve what I had seen. After he picked himself up off the floor from laughing, he declared those were not bear tracks. How he thought he knew is a mystery to me. OK, he followed me and looked at the tracks…then admitted they might be bear tracks, but they were days old. JUST ADMIT I AM RIGHT…I pleaded to no avail. So, he took off on the 4-wheeler, leaving me to rassle the bear I knew was lurking in the woods. After a couple more rounds of walking in areas I felt were safe I heard Steve holler the wayward girls were home.

Who knows how long they had been lounging on the back porch. I informed them that their Glory Days of Freedom were over and they were under house arrest. Moral of the Story…never trust a fat Frenchie with spring fever!

Is the Pet Industry Recession Proof?

Is the pet industry recession-proof? So far, New Yorkers still spending on pets

BY Lauren Johnston

DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER

Updated Tuesday, March 31st 2009, 10:42 AM New Yorkers are finding all sorts of ways to save their pennies as the economy worsens – but so far it seems Fluffy and Fido have been spared the household budget cuts.

Americans spent $43.2 billion on their animals in 2008 and are on track to shell out $45.4 in 2009, according to a report from the American Pet Products Association.
 
Calls to several of the city’s high-end pet boutiques confirmed that (for the most part) sales for toys, treats and grooming are holding steady though the shopping lists these days are not quite as extravagant.

For example, the Upper East Side deluxe boutique Le Chien has not sold any of its made-to-order $6,500 pet cabanas lately – and even had a client cancel an order – but they are moving tons of toys and treats.

“People are not exactly buying the mink throws or alligator collars, but they are still coming for the grooming every week and the toys,” said Edward Alava, who has been a manager at the shop for more than a decade.
 
Grooming at Le Chien starts at $125 and most patrons add on services like hot oil skin treatments and teeth-cleaning.
 
He’s also had a steady stream of long-distance business from clients who may have been laid off and are spending longer periods of time at their country homes instead of going to work in the city.

“A lot of people are asking me to set up a store in the Hamptons,” he said.

Chad Conway, co-owner of the Manhattan’s three tony Canine Styles shops, said his grooming business has remained robust as a matter of practicality – and hygiene.

“No matter what they’re going through in their lives, people are not going to deal with a dirty dog,” he said – adding that his clients report they are traveling less to save money and have the extra cash to  <span class=”fullpost”>splurge a bit on their furry friends.

The cheapest haircut at Canine Styles is $100 and grooming packages go up to $225.

And he can’t say for sure – but Conway suspects some clients are continuing to spoil their pets even after they’ve been hit with a pink slip

“There are people we never used to see – who were just names on the appointment book – and the nanny or butler picked up the dog, but now we see the owner,” he said.

Denise Paradiso – who handles merchandising at the East Side deluxe boarding house The Ritzy Canine – said her daycare profits have remained strong even as some clients have lost their jobs and now spend the day at home.

Private rooms for pets there go for up to $175 per night and daycare packages range from about $45 per day to between $550 and $660 for a 20-day package.

“We’ve seen people stretch their daycare package a little bit. People say, ‘I may have to only come three days a week,’ because they’ve gotten laid off, but they are not giving that up,” Paradiso said.

The Ritzy Canine hosts between 50 to 65 daycare dogs each day, she said. At Didi’s Dog Boutique in DUMBO, patrons might make a beeline for the sale bin, but they are still coming, said Felix Fung, who runs the shop with his wife Sonia.

Fung described his shop as “cheap chic,” and said his regular clients continued coming even after the shop left its home on the Bowery last year and crossed the East River to set up in Brooklyn.

Alava says customers at Le Chien have not only continued to shop for their pets – they’ve talked about adding pets to their animal broods.

And he said he’s not surprised that pet shops haven’t suffered financially – at least so far.

“Times are tough, but pets come first. Your best friend comes first,” he said. </span>

Eckhart Tolle and Dogs by Connie Wilson

I was Googling around and found this delightful interview with Eckhart Tolle by the editor of Modern Dog, Connie Wilson.If you do not subscribe to this wonderful magazine, I urge you to. It is fun, free-spirited and has fabulous articles!

 Being Our dogs, our guides: an interview with spiritual teacher Eckhart Tolle.

By Connie Wilson

Modern Dog Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Connie Wilson recently sat down with Eckhart Tolle, number one New York Times bestselling author of The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment. Widely recognized as one of the most influential spiritual books of our time, The Power of Now has been translated into over 30 languages and has helped countless people around the globe awaken to the spiritual dimension in their lives, find inner peace, increased joy, and more harmonious relationships.

It was seven years ago that I first encountered the teachings of Eckhart Tolle. I was at a crossroads in my life, unemployed and searching for the next path I should take. I decided to enroll in an entrepreneurial course and it was there, sitting in that classroom, that I first heard a passage from The Power of Now. I’ll never forget the words, as I knew without a doubt that something very significant had happened to me. I went out and bought The Power of Now, followed by several of Tolle’s other books. I keep them close at hand and frequently refer to them. I never put one down without having gained deeper insight into myself, my relationships, and the world around me.

When I recently learned that, like me, Tolle has a dog that figures prominently in his life, I felt compelled to contact him to see if he would grant me an interview for Modern Dog. It’s through this dog connection that I got the opportunity to meet this remarkable human being and his Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Maya, in their peaceful home on the edge of Pacific Spirit Park in Vancouver, British Columbia. I hope you find as much inspiration in his thoughts and teachings as I have.

CW: Just looking at Maya right now…she’s sitting and playing with her toy. I guess that’s a perfect example of being “in the Now”-in the present moment. Can you give us any other examples that are dog-related?

ET: To simply watch a dog without any kind of mental commentary, just tune in…there’s a link. Something else that’s very important for many people is they realize, consciously or unconsciously, that their dog is not judging them. For some people, it’s the only relationship that they have where there’s no fear and where they realize they are being accepted and not judged. For many people it’s the only relationship they have with another being. That’s a pity, because really they should have deep relationships with humans also, but that’s difficult because every human being has a mind and every human being judges and so people become afraid, they withdraw, they put up barriers. I believe that dogs are keeping millions of people sane who would otherwise become deeply neurotic in our alienated world. So, the dog keeps you in touch with being-beyond mind-Being, the innermost core. You can look into the eyes of the dog and see that innermost core. There are teachings that say every being is a spark of the divine of God. You can see it sometimes more clearly [in dogs] than in a human being because the human being has the veil of mind, negative emotions, and ego, and plays a role. I believe that dogs fill a vital function in the collective consciousness of humanity. I would call them “the Guardians of Being.” They show us what we have lost and, once we realize that, they can help us in our shift into a deeper state of consciousness. Of course, we don’t want to be confined to only deep relationships with dogs, but they can teach us how to relate deeply to another being and then we can learn to relate deeply to humans also. That has to be the next step.

CW: I think that’s very well said. In your book, you say we operate in a “fear-based society” and I think that has a lot to do with whether or not you want to show somebody how you honestly feel about them-you really love them but maybe they’re not going to give you that love back, so you’re afraid to demonstrate love and you close yourself off.

ET: Yes, it’s wonderful to see, when I walk with Maya, people come and immediately their hearts open…they may not even look at me, they look at Maya; they pat her. They wouldn’t dare do that to me though it would be quite nice. (laughs)

CW: You’ve had Maya for three years. How has she affected your life and your teachings?

ET: Before Maya came, I didn’t go out in the forest here, which is right next to the building. Now I go for a walk in the forest every day, and I know it’s good for my body, it’s good for the soul.

CW: That’s quite a gift in itself. Is Maya your first dog ever?

ET: Yes.

CW: To what do you attribute the increasing popularity of dogs?

ET: It’s the alienation of modern society and the human need to relate deeply to another being, which they are unable to do with humans. I hope this is changing, but in the meantime, dogs offer the opportunity to relate to and to have an open heart towards another being. To be able to show love to another being which is always [reciprocated]. That’s why I think dogs have a function that is absolutely vital, to keep humanity sane in this transitional period between two states of consciousness. “For some people, it’s the only relationship where there’s no fear and where they realize they are being accepted and not judged.” moderndogmagazine.com 103

CW: You could speak firsthand of the thousands and thousands of people in whose lives you’ve made a difference. It must feel absolutely incredible.

ET: Yes, it’s wonderful.

CW: Did you have an idea that you would have this opportunity to do this and become so well recognized as a result?

ET: No. When I was writing The Power of Now, I realized that [the book was] important [but] I thought it would reach only relatively few people. It would transform people, but I didn’t realize that so many people would be open to it. I thought only people that were deeply spiritual might recognize the truths. It helped those people but, for many people, The Power of Now was the first spiritual book they had read and it was deeply meaningful and transformed them. That was a surprise and it surprised us how quickly it grew because it was published on a very small scale at first in 1998; 3,000 copies were printed and that first year it just sold through word of mouth. Then it grew and grew and magazines wrote about it and ultimately it reached Oprah.

CW: You start The Power of Now with a caption, “You are here to enable the divine purpose of the Universe to unfold. That is how important you are.” Do you think that dogs are here for that purpose as well or are they here to act as muses to help assist us on that journey?

ET: Right now, part of the dog’s divine purpose is to assist humans. That’s why they have chosen to be with humans. They have been with humans for thousands of years and now there is a link between dogs and humans, much closer than it has ever been. So part of their divine purpose is to help us. But it always goes both ways. Because by living with humans, dogs also grow in consciousness… it is reciprocal. They are helping us; we are also helping the collective, one could say, the “dog consciousness.” The two species are part of the evolution of consciousness itself. They are different expressions of the evolution of consciousness, which is the purpose of the universe.

CW: As you’ve become more recognized and, well, famous, there are lots of demands on your time. Do you find it’s hard to adhere to your principles, such as Being in the Now?

ET: If I were not careful and alert it would be quite easy for things to take over my life and I would get lost in innumerable things I have to do-respond to people, answer thousands of emails. But I don’t. There are many things that I don’t do. I even have to say no to many interview requests. Occasionally, I have an inner voice saying “yes.” When your request came, for some reason it came from within and I said “yes.” I always trust this inner response. I don’t have an outer thing that says “Oh, I must do this or I should do that.” There are many things that I simply don’t do. And a few things, when the answer comes from within, when the positive response comes, then I do it. MORE TOMORROW!!!!!

Chocolate Poisoning for Dogs is REAL!

Ok, we have all heard that your dog’s should not eat chocolate and all that. I will admit I have always though all that was being a little melodramatic and over the top. Guess what, it is NOT! 

A VERY dear friend called me and told me that her dogs had eaten some super all natural chocolate and were deathly ill at the vet. It was this fancy, really good (I have had some) chocolate that was almost pure cocao and their hearts were racing and they were sick. Of course, she rushed them to the vet and they are there now. 

Her “Team” of helpers rushed in and the animal communicator said they are resting better and doing well now, but last night it was touch and go. Everyone is sending hugs, love, prayers and lotsa Reiki. Here is some info I found to share with you on this…

The truth is chocolate contains theobromine that is toxic to dogs in sufficient quantities. This is a xanthine compound in the same family of caffeine, and theophylline. That is why their hearts race and they can actualy die of heart failure!

The good news is that it usually takes a LOT of theobromine (100-150 mg/kg) to cause a toxic reaction. Plus, there are variables to consider like each dogs’ sensitivity, their size and chocolate concentration. The poor Frenchie has it all against him…small, very intense chocolate and already a sensitive guy. Her big dog….serious, but not so much. 

On average,

Milk chocolate contains 44 mg of theobromine per oz.

Semisweet chocolate contains 150mg/oz.

Baker’s chocolate 390mg/oz.

Pure Healthy/Specialty chocolate even more!

Using a dose of 100 mg/kg as the toxic dose it comes out roughly as:

1 ounce per 1 pound of body weight for Milk chocolate

1 ounce per 3 pounds of body weight for Semisweet chocolate

1 ounce per 9 pounds of body weight for Baker’s chocolate.

So, for example, 2 oz. of Baker’s chocolate can cause great risk to an 15 lb. dog. Yet, 2 oz. of Milk chocolate usually will only cause digestive problems.

Clinical Signs

Xanthines affect the nervous system, cardiovascular system and peripheral nerves. It has a diuretic effect as well. Clinical signs:

Hyper excitability

Hyper irritability

Increased heart rate

Restlessness

Increased urination

Muscle tremors

Vomiting

Diarrhea

There is no real cure or antidote for chocolate poisoning. And the half life of what makes them so sick is 16-18 hours in dogs. Induce vomiting immediately if you do not know how much they ate and CALL THE VET. 

GO TO THE VET, where they canaAdminister activated charcoal, which may stop or slow down absorption of the toxin. An anticonvulsant might be needed, your vet will be able to determine that. Oxygen therapy, intravenous medications, and fluids might be needed to protect the heart. YES, this is a big deal!

Milk chocolate will often cause diarrhea 12-24 hours after ingestion. This would be if your Frenchie ate a bag of M & M’s or a Hershey’s bar.

If you suspect your pet has ingested chocolate contact your Vet immediately! Do not Google anything until after you get home…just get to the vet ASAP.

Cold Weather Tips

We have had a month (or longer) of below zero highs and I am ready for a ray of sunshine. The Frenchies are virtually refusing to go outside…even for a moment. I feel like I am a slave to their bodily functions – hahahah!

Enough whining…on to a positive subject! Here are a few more tips on cold weather and your dog. If you are blessed to live somewhere warmer…good for you! But for those of us in the cold…here goes!

Small dogs or those with little to no hair should have sweaters or jackets for protection against the cold.  Some dogs absolutely love wearing sweaters or coats and some loathe it! Mudd dances to have a coat put on her, but Keeper will spin and roll and flop around until it comes off or I feel sorry for him and take it off. Don’t push it, just encourage them to wear one if need be.

 

Beware of FROZE TOES! Ice crystals can form when the heat of their foot hits frozen ground and makes  a sharp little ice point. It hurts and they will hold their foot/feet up and usually cry. Warm the foot and get them back inside, the ground is too cold for their feet if this is happening. If your dog will tolerate it, consider foot protection booties. This can keep your dog’s feet safe from harm and give your dog a better grip and prevent slipping on ice. None of mine would wear them, but I do see lots of dogs sporting booties!

 

When walking your dog near ice, be extra extra careful. If need be, do the little old lady/man shuffle and take slow flat footed steps. Always keep a close watch your dog and be sure he says nearby. Do not allow your dog to run across frozen bodies of water – he could fall into icy water if the ice is too thin! Then you would have to try and save him, you would fall in and I would be watching you on some bizarre Discovery Channel special…beware of thin ice…nuff said! There is a reason that saying goes..”he was on thin ice.”

If you use enjoy using a fireplace, always keep a safety guard around it in order to protect your dog away from the flames and soot. Our Frenchies are really determined to play in the ashes…we do not know why! We have to watch them or they will get into the coals and get burned. 

If your dog is in the cold and begins excessively shaking or shivering, get him back to warmth as soon as possible. DUH! As much as they might like it, keep your dog from eating snow. Dangerous objects or chemicals may be hidden in the snow. Excessive snow eating can even cause hypothermia! If you live in the country or have a lot of acerage, use your own judgment.

I saved the BIGGEST for last…Beware antifreeze – It is highly toxic! Antifreeze tastes good to pets, but even a small amount can kill your dog. Though exposure to antifreeze is a risk all year, the risk is especially high during the colder months. Keep your eyes on your dog at all times – and keep antifreeze out of reach. If you suspect your dog has had ANY exposure to antifreeze, get to a vet right away. PERIOD!

Caring For the Seniors

I am sitting here looking at a gaggle of old French Bulldogs. A couple have grey faces, one has grey LEGS, Vegas just looks like a little granny dog and a couple just are not moving as fast as they used to (I can sympathize!). Like many breeders, I have reached a stage where I have old dogs. I am NOT complaining…just setting the stage for the sharing of some observations.

Senior dogs need extra TLC, just like all of us aging Boomers… First, diet needs to be changed. No matter how active you think Old Buffy is, after the age of six or seven, it is time for Senior Food. They may need a grain-free food, check with your vet, if needed. Also, cut back on so many treats and make sure they have not accumulated any extra pounds. An extra pound or two can be a LOT on a small dog!

Second, keep those teeth clean. Some Frenchies have a genetic predisposition to tartar accumulation, so make sure you are having their teeth cleaned regularly. I know it is scary to put them under for a routine teeth cleaning, but it is for the best. Do the pre-anesthesia blood work and check up, of course. Share your concerns with your vet, maybe they have an alternative way to relax them. If teeth need to be pulled, do it, they won’t miss them. The cute little underjaw we love in our French Bulldogs makes for a bit of jumbled up teeth and they often loose a few.

Third, cut/dremel/file their toenails more often. As their pasterns drop a bit with age, their toenails will hit the ground at a different angle.

Fourth, there may be some disorientation as they age. Like forgetfulness of where they are or what they were doing. Touch them gently and call their name. I also recommend our The Blissful Dog Vibrational Essence…Age Well. That will help reorient them.

Fifth, it can be easy to push the oldster aside if there are younger dogs. Remember when they were the king (or queen) and give them the respect and dignity they deserve. Not chastizing here, just gently reminding…Last, give them a BIG HUG from me!

Blatant Plug Alert – I do have an amazing product Age Well, a Vibrational Essence that REALLY helps with the aging process.

President Obama’s Animal Friendly Posts

President-elect Barack Obama has made his most animal-relevant Cabinet appointments: Secretary of Agriculture and Secretary of the Interior. Former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack has received the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS)’s resounding endorsement as the next Secretary of Agriculture. Approximately 90,000 animal advocates petitioned Obama through the HSUS website to appoint Vilsack for this post based on his solid record of animal protection.

U.S. Senator Ken Salazar of Colorado will serve as Secretary of Interior. His appointment marked a disappointment for animal advocates, given Salazar’s mixed record in support of animal legislation. As Secretary of the Interior, Salazar will oversee the enforcement of wildlife laws, including the Endangered Species Act and Migratory Bird Treaty Act. For his part, Vilsack will assume responsibility for enforcing laws relating to puppy mills and animal fighting, as well as oversee the Animal Welfare Act and Humane Methods of Slaughter Act.

Kelly…Animal Communicator Saves the Day!

My dear friend, Kelly, sent me this email. Her excitement and relief is just palpable…My mom called about 4 pm this afternoon in hysterics.  Her 17 year old terrier mix, Harley was missing. They have a doggie door which Harley would go out, do his business and come back in.  Mom worked today and while she was a work, Wally wasn’t paying attention to Harley’s whereabouts.  They typically don’t have to because Harley is blind and deaf, so he doesn’t stray.  

Well today Harley decided to stray.  Mom and Wally searched the neighborhood for hours.  They live in rural central AZ.  Tonight it’s dropping down to 20 and they are expecting snow. I told mom to email a picture of Harley to me.  I sent it to a friend of mine who is an animal communicator.

She went online and got a satellite picture of Mom’s neighborhood.  Linda was able to get in touch with Harley.  He decided to go on an adventure and got lost.  Linda told him to stay still, to find a bush to lay next to, since he is blind he couldn’t see where to go.  Linda then told my parents that Harley was between Telephone Rd. and Encanto Dr.  They know Telephone Rd., but never heard of Encanto Dr.  So Wally took off and drove down Telephone Rd., he pulled over and walked down a path, thru a field and found Harley laying next to some tall grass.  

Wally looked at a map to see when Encanto Dr. was, he said that was exactly where he found Harley.

Now, mind you, my step-dad WAS a HUGE skeptic, he only drove down Telephone Rd. because of his guilt of not watching the dog. We are all still amazed and thankful that Harley was found and is safe at home.

I’ve used Linda for animal communication, but never for a lost animal.  She is amazing.

Judging the FBDCA National Specialty Sweeps

As many of you know, I judged the FBDCA Sweeps this past October. Here are my thoughts on that auspicious event! This write up also appeared in the National Specialty issue of JustFrenchies…you all are getting a sneak preview!

Judging your breed’s National Specialty is quite an honor and one that I was thrilled to be voted, by my peers, to undertake. For months before the Nationals I obsessed over all the usual things…what will I wear, what if people do not like the winners I pick, what if I fall down or even worse, my pants fall down or what if everyone says I am old and fat. I babbled on and on about all of this until my husband, Steve, said…”Don’t you think all of them are older and some of them fatter since the last time you saw them?” I had to laugh and all of my worries and stress disappeared. I knew that none of you cared about ME, all you wanted and expected was for me to walk into that ring and pick the puppies that I felt best matched the standard on THAT day. And that was exactly what I planned to do!

We have a resort in far northern Minnesota (yes, brrr), and that going virtually anywhere involved planes, trains, automobiles and sometimes sled dogs (just kidding on that part!).To get to Kansas I drove three hours to Fargo, then hopped a flight to Denver and then on to Kansas City. I got in really late and there were no more shuttles, so I had to take a cab. After a bit of a ride, we pulled into the hotel parking lot and the very first French Bulldog I saw was Jackpot! Daily Double, now adored by Kathi and Jim Luljak and also renamed Chloe.  Chloe is now 13 and it was a delight to have the very first Frenchie I saw be one that I had bred and was a very senior citizen (don’t tell her I called her that).

I rested up and was ready for my assignment the next day. To my delight, obedience had so many entries they ran quite a bit over – time-wise. Isn’t that fabulous? So many French Bulldogs that are actually DOING something! My congratulations to all of the Obedience participants.

This gave me a bit more time to sit and ponder the importance of what judging the Sweepstakes at Nationals meant to me. You see, I have had a long and loving relationship with my French Bulldogs and have had quite a few generations of Jackpot! French Bulldogs. But with our move to the Big Woods, I just was not able to get the same level of vet care that we were used to in the Twin Cities area. That and I had achieved my goals and the whole competitive part was just not as satisfying as it once was. I made the oath to myself that I was going to select French Bulldogs that made my heart sing, no matter who bred them or showed them, if I even knew, it had been a while since I have been to a dog show! Yes, I knew that no matter what I had to stay true to myself and just judge the dogs.

<span class=”fullpost”>I am digressing and I bet you are all ready for me to get on to the FRENCHIES!

When I got back to the ring I was told that I had to move fast and make sure I was through before the time for the club meeting. I took a deeeep breath and said, “It will take as long as it takes, but don’t worry, all will be fine.” I do not wear a watch, but knew that it WOULD be timed perfectly. I am a huge fan and believer in Eckhart Tolle’s work and I knew that by staying completely in the moment and not allowing my “mind” to make my decisions, but to go with what the True Me knew to be so, that I would be just fine with my placements…and so it began.

The first class was a lovely class of 6-9 puppy dogs. There were two boys that caught my eye at the beginning, a golden fawn and a white cream. Both of them were gorgeous and moved perfectly…trained to the max! But the fawn puppy made my heart sing, he has a lovely upsweep of underjaw and was just the perfectly cute package I love to see. It was REALLY close, but I went with the fawn puppy for first in that class.

1 (125) Fabelhaft Robobull Hot Commodity. Dog. Owner: James Dalton & Shelley St John.

2 (713) Floresta’s Spontaneous Combustion. Dog. Owner: Gail & Dave Christensen & Jean Burns DVM.

3 (201) Jensign’s The Love Guru. Dog. Owner: Brenda & John Brown.

4 (111) Dreamlands Maybe Its All Jacks. Dog. Owner: Patricia Lamonica & Deborah Stocker.

The 9-12 Puppy Dogs were next and it had two lovely brindle boys that vied for my attention )I know that sounded like a romance novel, but they DID). Both had lovely heads, nice jaws and really pretty, expressive eyes. The boy I gave first in the class to was a bit more compact, so he won the class by a nudge. My second place boy had the sweetest expression and made my heart melt, I must admit.

1 (141) Fancibuls Famous Get Ready 4 Action. Dog. Owner: Fred & Jahmai Castillo.

2 (207) Shann’s Hollywood Egomaniac. Dog. Owner: Shauna Macauley McCanles & Bryan McCanles.

3 (213) Lionheart’s Sweet Baby James. Dog. Owner: Linda Eve & Jana Miklos.

4 (195) Fiesta’s Mister Denero D’Hegebrook. Dog. Owner: Gayle Lopez & Joyce Haas & Kelly Wilcox.

Next were the 12-18 Boys and in they came! These boys were, of course, more mature than the previous two classes and I loved seeing their potential almost fulfilled. In this class it came down to movement, as heads were all strong and they were all of nice shape. 

1 (159) Morgan Manor Chairman Of The Board. Dog. Owner: Sharon & Calvin Dykes.

2 (163) Rock N’ Rolls Shake Your Money Maker. Dog. Owner: Karen Robertson.

3 (155) Fabelhaft Lionheart Of Ruchi. Dog. Owner: Stephani & Dave Luedde & James Dalton

4 (177) Menace II Society d’ Assisi. Dog. Owner: Lori Hunt DVM.

Boys were through and now onto the Girls! 

I have always felt there is nothing more adorable than a fat, sassy Frenchie bitch puppy and this class did not let me down. Each puppy that sauntered into the ring was an amazing representative of the breed and it made me feel sooo good to see that our breed just keeps getting better and better. This was the biggest class and I knew that I had my wonderful work (more like play) cut out for me. Once again, it was easy to find four typey, correct, beautiful Frenchie girls to fill the slots. I just could not take my eyes off this one pied girl, she just sparkled and has quite the show presence. So, she walked out with the first placement.

1 (286) Enchante’s Dream Come True At Peach Hill. Bitch. Owner: Rhonda Waller & Sheryl Alkevicius.

2 (288) Fabelhaft Robobull Velveteen Rabbit. Bitch. Owner: Rachel Botts & James Dalton.

3 (292) Karendon’s Paris Rumor. Bitch. Owner: Susan Neidlinger & Karen E Cram..

4 (256) Petite Motif Tete-A-Tete Cassiopeia. Bitch. Owner: Carol O’Bryant & Helene Neer, Jerry O’Bryant & Judi McKissick.

The 9-12 Class was not as big as the 6-9 class, but the puppy bitches were of equal quality. Once again, I was so pleased to see such sound, classic French Bulldogs. I placed them easily and, as always, just wished I had more ribbons!

1 (392) Gladstone’s Byzantine. Bitch. Owner: Doreen R Horky.

2 (402) Monitaps Affair To Remember. Bitch. Owner: Pat O’Keefe.

3 (382) Ebullient Cometary Halo. Bitch. Owner: Christine & Mark Grether.

4 (324) Dygros Petite Alexis. Bitch. Owner: Ruby Grogg & Gretchen Dyson & Debra Allison.

The 12-18 Class was my toughest class to judge. The one who eventually got the first placement had a stunning pied bitch right on her heels. I went back and forth in my mind and could have virtually just as easily given that glorious pied bitch the first. In the end, I had to just had to go with showiness and the brindle edged the pied out by the most narrow of margins. That class is the one I have replayed in my mind, as those two girls were very different in type, but of such absolutely stellar quality! Agony! 

1 (440) Robobull Fabelhaft Fan The Flame. Bitch. Owner: Shelley St John & James Dalton & Perry Payson.

2 (416) Charlotte du Fiacre de Montparnasse. Bitch. Owner: Dr. Dorit Fischler.

3 (712) Fabelhaft la Coeur DOr of Ravencrest. Bitch. Owner: P Boles.

4 (338) Razmajazz’s Spotty Dottie. Bitch. Owner: Carla J Davis & Michael K Davis.

Now that the placements had been made It was time for the Grand Finale! My class winners trotted back in and I had the opportunity to see them all again. I was very, very pleased with the final roundup and I am not “blowing smoke” by saying that each and every one of them could have easily walked out with the Best in Sweeps ribbon and I would have been satisfied with myself on my judging assignment. In the end, I had to take it down to this…what if I were starting a breeding program from this selection of French Bulldog puppies. Which dog and bitch would I want to go with, from appearances alone, that was how I determined my winners. 

I will share this next bit with you, laugh, smile or shake your head, I want you all to know what I felt. Throughout the judging I had done as I had promised myself…I did not allow who the handlers were to affect my choices, I just watched the puppies, with delight, I might add, and placed them. I knew I could look anyone in the eye and tell them that I TRULY  judged the dogs. But, I could not help but know what I do know and I was very well aware that my two I had determined to be my Best in Sweepstakes and my Best of Opposite Sex were from the same breeders. Only at that moment did I waver and a teeny bit of doubt entered my mind. My delicious dilemma was this…Do I award the ribbons to the two I wanted to, that I yearned to, the top ribbons…or did I play it safe and pick a different Best of Opposite. I knew I HAD to stay true to myself and judge the DOGS, so I pushed my insecurities out of my mind and allowed my soul to be true to itself and I awarded the ribbons as I knew I must.

So there you have it! Probably the oddest accounting of judging a National Specialty Sweepstakes, but those of you who know me expected no less. And I do believe Eckhart would have been very proud of me.

PS – I have lost 30 pounds since this photo was taken…geesh, I could have lost it BEFORE, but what the heck!
And by the way…I did finish ten minutes EARLY!</span>

The Blissful Dog

Chakra Pups

EZ Boy Nose Butter

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