The Untold Secrets of a Sheltie

Sorry for the post delay: Sleeping over!

2008-07-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

Hello My readers!
Sorry for not posting in a while! Mommy has been spiffing up my training with some new tricks and stuff. Also, I have been having alot of fun sleeping over at Snicker's and Rose's house! Haha, I love getting ahead of myself. Makes me feel so special!

But, Mommy had a friend over and they talked and stuff. Their moms had went to a private 'woman' party. Hehe...So we hung out together. I am really suspicious of that Whitney girl. Me and mom have mixed feelings about her. So, anyways, mom busied herself playing with Snickers and Rose. Rose is a red Dachsie and Snickers is a Merle Dachsie. They are really good furiends!

So mommy and I spent the night and it was pretty fun.

Then we spent the whole afternoon together and played, played, PLAYED!

PICTURES WILL BE POSTED TOMORROW!!!!!

Sizzlin' Hole Hiking!

2008-07-12T21:36:00.000-07:00

Well, after spending a second night at Aunt Tabby, in the morning she took us to a small place to walk. Aunt Tabby admires my spirit, but I had been getting restless from no exercise, since there are no safe walk ways or paths near her house. Mommy was delighted, it was a chance to strap on her new fanny pack that her Auntie gave her. She uses it to stow and stash my training stuff. Like treats, clickers, leashes, water, a camera, a ball, and a stuffed toy. She has it all in that pouch! So we were driving down the road, and made are way about 20 minutes throw another town, which is mommy's home town, and we pulled in the parking lot of a small white Church. We turned down a small road next to it, and I watched houses zoom on by. The trail is owned by the State, and we didn't plan on doing any hunting, so we were allowed to walk there. We stopped in front of someone's house and kept it nicely out of their drive way. Mommy unloaded me and we set off. Tabby and Kayla talking back and forth, mommy quipping in now and again. That path was muddy, but that was because it had been really worn out by state vehicles and stuff. We walked on, and after getting a good distance away from the strange house, mommy unclipped my lead. She told me to stay away from the barbwire fence. She said I would get tangled and get hurt. I jogged on ahead in a Shetland fashion. Doubling back and making sure not to get too far ahead of my people. Kayla chattered and we approached a fork in the route, and we headed off right. It was great! I loved running and chewing on plants. I felt soo happy! The best part is when we came to a giant meadow! Amber, Aunt Tabby, and Kayla were watching out for snakes. But mom said it was really nothing to worry about. I love how she reassures me! Mom picked up a walking stick that doubled as a snake-checker stick. I loved it. Tabby told me and Kayla to wait on a piece of clear ground while she looked for the entrance through the thicket. The entrance lead to a mountain pool mom said. The meadow was overgrown, but mom let me bound and hop on through it! She called me back when Tabby found the entrance. I leaped beside momma and stayed close to her heels. We entered through the thicket and onto a neat path. I launched ahead. I could definitely smell fresh water. Mommy told me that mountain water was special. Mountain water rolls off the top of the mountains. At the top of the mountains it is really, really, REALLY cold. So the water doesn't harbor mosquito larva, bacteria, or any other harmful critters or algae. Mom said it was okay to drink and swim in. So we turned a to a right when we came to another fork, and the water smell got stronger. I turned the corner, and there was a BEAUTIFUL sight. A small pool with clear harmless water. Rocks, pebbles, and sandy mud. It was pretty. Especially the waterfall.

But it was fantastic! Mommy says I make her a liar all the time. I don't know why. She says I pretend to hate swimming, but when I am at a nice pool, I splash and thrash and swim! So? Just because I don't like baths or my toys thrown in deep water doesn't mean I don't like to swim!

Then mommy did a photo shoot! Gosh! We took alot of pictures! I loved every bit of it though! Especially when I got cookies and prasie ;)

Then after a while we had to leave. It was gonna rain soon. So we hiked along and made our way back to the Explorer. I hope to go there again!!!!!

Late writer

2008-07-11T23:18:00.001-07:00

Sorry for not writing lately. Nothing much has been going on in this little sheltie's life. I have been having some spats with a condescending user on dogster. Mommy thinks he is a real a******e. Mom bought me some food at the Wal-mart called Three Dog Bakery. It is okay stuff and mom only really wanted to try it. And I love their cookie treats! Well, momma posted a forum asking about it, and he got all rude about the food, so mom rose in defense of herself.

The he attacked her for her age and basically went out and called her ignorant. Mommy got so pissed. So she retorted and reported the message. Mommy does not approve of anyone being rude to her or condradicting her age.

Especially from a rude d***.

But that is the steam I had to loose. WHEW. I feel better getting that off my chest.

But I have been spending time with Amber's grandmother and her Aunt. Amber's aunt is the one who payed for the food. So Mom is pretty insulted.

But I have been having fun. Not alot of time to type.

So see you later!

Classes and Food

2008-07-07T22:51:00.000-07:00

It is officially about my agility. My Beginner's Class starts July 23!

When it comes to pet food and good nutrition, I think I would have to give my mom an A+++! She finds the best quality pet food out there for my and my fursibs!

Mom has been doing some research on Dogster about different types of Venison dog food. Venison is deer meat. Mom has me on this type of diet called a rotational. Rotational diets are very beneficial because they give variety to a diet, switch premium protein sources around, and can sometimes allow you to feed kibble, homecooking, and raw in one rotation!

I do a full kibble rotation with wet food mixed with the dry. In my rotation currently, I eat Wellness Core Original !
I also eat Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream!
Mom has been looking for some more variety and premium foods to add to my rotational.

So today after getting information on the agility classes, we headed to the food stores. First, mom stopped at this place called Harry's Aquarium. They had this food called Canine Caviar that mom wanted to try. When we got there, they didn't have the Venison, so mom special ordered it. It should be in on Friday.

So she bought me two cans of the wet version, Venison Tripe and Gourmet Turkey.

Off to the Oak Ridge Feed Store!

When we got there mom asked about a small bag of Solid Gold MMillenia. She always wanted to try it. But they didn't carry any small bags. Mom was disapointed.
So she bought me a bag of Zuke's treats.

Then we headed off to the Pet Supplies Plus store. Mom bought me some toothpaste and Natural Balance Venison and Sweet Potato formula.

It was a fun day!

Mom is hoping to add Wellness CORE Ocean Blue formula to our rotation too! *Shh, don't tell HER mom about that*

Agility

2008-07-06T19:36:00.000-07:00

Ooooo! I am so excited about tomorrow! Mommy is starting agility with me! She said she was gonna do it for the longest time, and now she is finally doing it! We are going to the PetSafe Village Dog Park where they have a 'play' Agility Course! What luck! Then mom is signing me up for classes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!YIPPPEEEEE!

Come back tomorrow and I will let you know how I do!

Dog agility is a dog sport in which a handler directs a dog through an obstacle course in a race for both time and accuracy. Dogs generally run off-leash with no food or toys as incentives. The handler can touch neither dog nor obstacles, except accidentally. Consequently, the handler's controls are limited to voice, movement, and various body signals, requiring exceptional training of the animal.

In its simplest form, an agility course consists of a set of standard obstacles, laid out by an agility judge in a design of his own choosing on a roughly 100 by 100 foot (30 by 30 m) area, with numbers indicating the order in which the dog must complete the obstacles.

Courses are complicated enough that a dog could not complete them correctly without human direction. In competition, the handler must assess the course, decide on handling strategies, and direct the dog through the course, with precision and speed equally important. Many strategies exist to compensate for the inherent difference in human and dog speeds and the strengths and weaknesses of the various dogs and handlers.

Contact obstacles

A-frame: Two broad ramps, usually about 3 feet (1 m) wide by 8 to 9 feet (3 m) long, hinged together and raised so that the hinged connection is between five and six-and-a-quarter feet above the ground (depending on the organization), roughly forming an A shape. The bottom 36 to 42 inches (1 m) of both sides of the A-frame are painted a bright color, usually yellow, forming the contact zone, onto which the dog must place at least one paw while ascending and descending. Most sanctioning organizations require that A-frames have low profile, narrow, horizontal slats all along their length to assist the dog's grip going up and down. Some organizations allow the top of the A-frame to be narrower than the bottom.

Dogwalk: Three 8 to 12 ft (3 to 4 m) planks, 9 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) wide, connected at the ends. The centre plank is raised to about 4 feet (1.2 m) above the ground, so that the two end planks form ramps leading up to and down from the center plank. This obstacle also has contact zones. Most sanctioning organizations also require slats on the dogwalk ramps.

Teeter-totter (or seesaw): A 10 to 12 foot (3 to 4 m) plank pivoting on a support, much like a child's seesaw. It is constructed slightly off-balance so that the same end always returns to the ground. This is done either by placing the support slightly off-center or else weighting one end of the board. This obstacle also has contact zones. However, unlike the other contact obstacles, the teeter-totter does not have slats. The balance point and the weight of the plank must be such that even a tiny dog, such as a Chihuahua, can cause the high end of the teeter-totter to descend to the ground within a reasonable amount of time, specified by the sanctioning organization's rules (usually about 2 seconds). Smaller dogs get more time to run a course, and this is one reason why it can take them longer than it takes larger dogs.

Crossover: A 4-foot (1.2 m) high, 3-foot-by-3-foot (1-meter-by-1-meter) square platform , with ramps similar to those found on a dogwalk descending from the center of three or four of its sides. The dog must ascend the correct ramp and then descend the ramp indicated by the handler, possibly changing direction to do so. This has not been a commonly used obstacle, mainly because of its size. No major agility organization in the United States currently allows the use of a crossover, but the crossover is allowed by other organizations such as the Agility Association of Canada and The Kennel Club.

Tunnels

Tunnel (or chute or rigid tunnel): A vinyl tube, 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 m) long and about 2 feet (60 cm) in diameter, through which the dog runs. The tunnel is constructed of flexible vinyl and wire, such that it can be configured in a straight line, or in a variety of curves.

Collapsed tunnel (or chute or cloth tunnel): A barrel-like cylinder with a tube of fabric attached around one end. The fabric extends about 8 to 12 feet (3 to 4 m) and lies closed until the dog runs into the open end of the chute and pushes his way out through the fabric tube.

Other tunnels: UKC agility allows two additional tunnel types, the crawl tunnel and the hoop tunnel, that are not found in other agility organizations. CPE allowed an interconnected set of tunnels called a tunnel maze from 2004 though 2006, but discontinued the tunnel maze as of the 2007 rulebook..

Jumps

Jump (or hurdle): Two uprights supporting a horizontal bar over which the dog jumps. The height is adjusted for dogs of different heights. The uprights can be simple stanchions or can have wings of various shapes, sizes, and colors.

Double and triple jump (or spread jump): Two uprights supporting two or three horizontal bars spread forward or back from each other. The double can have parallel or ascending horizontal bars; the triple always has ascending bars. The spread between the horizontal bars is sometimes adjusted based on the height of the dog.

Panel jump: Instead of horizontal bars, the jump is a solid panel from the ground up to the jump height, constructed of several short panels that can be removed to adjust the height for different dog heights.

Broad jump (or long jump): A set of four or five slightly raised platforms that form a broad area over which the dog must jump without setting their feet on any of the platforms. The length of the jump is adjusted for the dog's height.

Tire jump: A torus shape roughly the size of a tire, suspended in a frame. The dog must jump through the opening of the "tire"; like other jumps, the height is adjusted for dogs of different sizes. The tire is usually wrapped with tape both for visibility and to cover any openings or uneven places in which the dog could catch.

Other hurdles: UKC agility allows a variety of hurdles not found in other agility organizations: bush hurdle, high hurdle, log hurdle, picket fence hurdle, rail fence hurdle, long hurdle, window hurdle, water hurdle.

Miscellaneous

Table (or pause table)

An elevated square platform about 3-foot-by-3-foot (1-meter-by-1-meter) square onto which the dog must jump and pause, either sitting or in a down position, for a designated period of time which is counted out by the judge, usually about 5 seconds. The height ranges from about 8 to 30 inches (20 to 75 cm) depending on the dog's height and sponsoring organization.

Pause box: A variation on the pause table. The pause box is a square marked off on the ground, usually with plastic pipe or construction tape, where the dog must perform the "pause" behavior (in either a sit or a down) just as he would on the elevated table.

Weave poles: Similar to a slalom, this is a series of 5 to 12 upright poles, each about 3 feet (1 m) tall and spaced about 20 inches (50 cm) apart, through which the dog weaves. The dog must always enter with the first pole to his left, and must not skip poles. For many dogs, weave poles are one of the most difficult obstacles to master.

Other obstacles: UKC agility allows the following obstacles not found in other agility organizations: swing plank, sway bridge, and platform jump.

July 4th Recap

2008-07-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

I hate the Fourth Of July. Too many loud noises, scary explosions, very scary for a 13 inch high 16 pound Shetland Sheepdog. I prefer to hide. But as always, mommy dragged me out of the house to enjoy the 'festivities' as she said.

What festivities? All I heard was loud noises, screams, and smelled smoke the whole time I was there.

We went to the Fourth of July party and Farewell Marty party on the 4th. Mom left the puppy at home (haha) but dragged me along. I didn't know mommy was taking me to a strange house. Strange houses kill me.

We hopped into the car and drove on.

When we got there, there was a tiny house. The steps were very old timyish concrete patterns. They were very small. The house looked shabby, but sturdy.It seemed okay to me.

When we got out we were greeted by Amber's cousin Kayla, and some strange boy. I didn't mind him so much. Kayla jabbered on about something, and so did the boy. I ignored them.

We went into the house. It smelled of cat. I saw eyes peering at me from under a chair. I saw two kittens in the window. They smelled kinda like Brock. They must've been his siblings.

The woman of the house was casual and a little short-tempered when it came to her kid. I didn't like her so much. She called me pretty and beautiful alot though.

After while, mom said we were shooting off fireworks. Uh, no?

Mommy led me outside to a nice tent covered sitting. She tied my leash to the table. The woman came back out and sat next to Amber. Amber's mom and Aunt sat in front of us. Nick, Amber's brother, started playing with these glitter sticks mom called,"Sparklers". He is 16, to old to be playing with those as mom said.

Then they moved on to more loud stuff. Devices called bottlerockets and firecrackers. I got a little nervous. Then mom put me in the house and locked me in a room..

I slept.

When I awoke, Mom was there and they all sat in the living room. Mom talked to the others. She seemed sad. I asked what was wrong. She looked at me and tickled my chin. "What are you whining for?" I wasn't whining! I was asking a question.

Amber's Uncle Marty, seemed sad and scared. He hugged Amber and everyone tight, and he said the words,"Going. Iraq. Year" Maybe that is why everyone was so sad...

After all that drama, me and mamma slept fitfully...

If she was actually in the PVFD I would understand....but

2008-07-03T19:53:00.001-07:00

Maybe if mom was ACTUALLY in the PVFD, I would TOTALLY understand her going to the Tuesday and Thursday get togethers. But mom is completely nuts, and drags me out of my nice quiet home to go and run around after her friend. Caanan is one of her friends, I can understand wanting to hang out with him, but she is really pushing me!

Sirens and alarms go off when the fire dudes jump in the big red trucks. They hurt my ears. Siren doesn't care, she just licks Caanan to death. Mommy is right there with her too! She justs talks away to him. Only talking to me when I bark at a German Shepherd passing by in the park. Or when I see a car load of hoodlums drive by. It isn't even talking, just commands, scolding, commands, praising.....

So I left mommy and ventured up the metal stair case in the VFD. They are cleaning in out because the last Fire Chief neglected the building and wouldn't clean it. So now they are detoxing the whole place. So on my 'unruly' adventure, I managed to run through a billion cobwebs and almost got bit by a spider!

I soon found myself in the attic. There were a lot of boxes filled with green jugs, toys, hoses, old turnout gear, and some old cot-styled beds. I poked around and found an old cracker. It tasted ashy, so I spit it out and left it.

I poked around some more in the dim upstairs. I hear a 'crrrrreeeeeeeaaaaakkkk' noise behind me. I felt something touch me.................

"EEEEEEYYYYEEEEEEPPPPPP!"

I turned around fast and there was Caanan! He followed me up there. I bolted downstairs where mommy was scolding me about going off and trying to fly down stairs. Humph, not my fault he scared me.

Mommy walked us in the park, and she swung in a thing called a swing for a while. She said she was getting to old for one. I don't know why, she looked to high and was swinging too fast for my liking. So true to my rebellious promise, I paraded off on my own, leaving Siren and mom. I heard people in the distance, but I ignored them. I sniffed around and poked my head in the weeds. I hopped across stones and splashed in the creek.

I heard my mom calling for me, and I was getting pretty tired anyways, so I trotted across the small bridge instead of hopping in the stream. I galloped back over and I saw five people a big dog in the distance. A growl rumbled in my throat. When I made it to mom, she clipped my lead on and carried Siren. We headed by the the Fire Hall.

It sure is hot in there...

After mom and Caanan talked, they goofed off in the office for a while, finding all sorts of weird and old objects. Ancient glue pails, 2004 dated fire handbooks, and chalk.

Brittany(Caanan's aunt) and mom's mom Jessica, came in and cleaned up the office. Caanan and Amber just poked around for fun.

After a while Caanan and Brittany got in their car and left. Then so did we. Siren was tired, mom said she had been a nuisance all day.

Haha...

Then finally we got home....

About time.

That's all for today!

See ya later!

2008-07-01T19:21:00.000-07:00

Adventure is starting to wear me out! Whew! Today I had the privilege of not staying home, but I had to accompany my mommy EVERYWHERE.

At the beginning of the day, mommy took me to see my best pal Mopsy! Yay! We sniffed and played a bit. Me and Mopsy got mad when Siren got all the attention. Sheesh, little sisters! Siren got scolded for eating Mopsy's food though, made us feel better that she got in trouble! Haha!

Mommy was talking to Ashleigh, who is a long distance friend of hers. She is nice. I let her stroke and coddle me. I don't mind that too much.

Siren wiggled and licked all over her. I don't much like the way that pup licks people all the time. Sickening..

After a while, I had to say by to Mops...I love my friend.

After playing with Mops, we went home. Mom downloaded some new pictures to my Dogster profile! Yay! After that she gave me a small meal. I ate most of it. But I wasn't too hungry.

After that, mommy loaded me and Si up and took us off somewhere else! Gosh!
When me and Siren got out, I noticed we were at the park again! But we were next to that old blue and red building. It smells like hundreds of cars that leak fuel.. Gross!

Me and Si poked around for a bit....
Well, Siren chewed her leash for a bit I meant to say. Anyways, mom's mom and her boyfriend opened the doors to the old building. I stepped inside. This was the Fire Department! I liked it here. I had been her last Christmas riding in the Suburban Cruiser. I had my Mrs. Santa dress on.

Then a truck pulled up. It was the Ex-Fire chief. He made me jump a little when he tried to pet me. Siren gushed all her love on him. Gross pup. I was wary of him. He smelled like fireworks...

Then this white Blazer pulled up. Mommy got excited. Turns out it was one of her friends, Caanan. He and his sisters came over. I let them love all over me. Siren went nuts for love.

Caanan stroked me and petted Siren. He has a real rough touch. He made me feel safe though.

Mommy and his little sister started talking. She is a fast talker! Whew! She liked me best. She said I was smart, pretty, and a good dog. I know :D.

Anyways we started loading up the fire gear, so the firefighters could go and train. Caanan muttered something about puppies. I was confused. His Dad petted me though. He has Caanan's touch. Rough but safe....

Anyways, we packed in the truck and took off. The white Blazer went the opposite direction. Mommy was disapointed.

Anyways, we got out and mommy walked Siren. She let me off-leash. She trusted me. Siren isn't trained to come by whistle or name yet. I love how mommy likes me best. Shh, don't tell!
Then we saw the white Blazer again. Mom got excited again. Sheesh, he isn't that great of a guy, is he? Caanan stepped out and unloaded two red and white specked puppies. Mommy melted. They were so cute. But they came up to my shoulder, and they were just young puppies! Gosh.

Mommy coddled them and kissed them. They jumped up on her. I played with them. Rebel was darker than his brother Whiskey. Whiskey was funner though. We played chase. Mommy couldn't play cause she was babysitting Siren. Annoying pup.

After a while I got jealous of those Redtick Coonhound pups. Mommy was loving all over them and paying attention to only Caanan. I got a little nuts. I growled and tried to bite Rebel, who was lounging in MY mommy's lap. Then Caanan was playing around with my mommy. He swatted her arm. She squealed. I growled, and leapt up to bite Caanan's arm. He yelled and jumped for cover. He burst out laughing. His sister was too.
"I told you not to do that Caine." Mommy giggled warmly.

I have an extreme fear of small children, but today mommy was proud of me. Along with Caanan, Eden, and Chloe, there were three other girls. Ages 7,5, and 2. Normally I would hide and growl, but I made lots of friends. Siren did too.

Mommy watched Caanan try to train his puppies to walk. But his heeling technique was wrong. Mommy laughed and promised to help him out at the next meeting.

After a while it got dark. Mommy said bye to Caanan and his puppies. Caanan smiled and waved back. We clambered into the truck and back to the house we went.

Today was exciting. I am a little exhausted, but I loved it!

BYE FOR NOW!

Our trip at the Park: Yesterday

2008-07-01T19:10:00.000-07:00

Well, I didn't get my pictures on the computer in time to write this entry. But, now I have them! They turned out pretty great!

Siren, Mommy, Mommy's Mom, and I went to the park yesterday! Yipee! I was SOO excited. I finally got to run, run, RUN! I loved the way the wind billowed in my fur!

I got run off leash, but Siren had to stay onleash! Haha!
I gave it the usual treatment. Pee here, pee there. Soak my scent everywhere! Haha. Siren tried to run with me, but it wasn't working. She was stuck on her lead!

Mommy and I ran a lap. I was all hyped up, but mommy was beat. Party pooper. So I galloped valiantly through the park. It was quiet, no other dogs or people. Mommy and everyone walked a mile, Siren made it half a mile and collapsed. She was totally tired. Mommy's mom carried her the rest of the mile.

As for me, I was bred to speed and travel long miles.

We stayed for a hour or so. Then we had to go home :(

Other than that, it was a pawesome trip!

How to on Massages. My massage...aww

2008-06-30T22:13:00.001-07:00

Have you ever had a deep tissue massage? Feels amazing doesn't it? What, never had a massage?! My friend you need to get one!

My mommy does mine at home. She learned the proper techniques by reading a couple of articles on the internet and in magazines for dogs. Then she tried her stuff out on my, and AWWWW.... It feels so good.

Mommy starts at my head, face, and neck. She gently applies pressure to my neck muscles and rubs up in down with her fingertips wiggling my strained old muscles. Then she takes the pressure and moves up toward my head. Awww... Then she goes down to my neck again, and up to the head.

When she gets to my face, she eases up. The pressure is soft as she glides across my cheekbones. She rubs my chin and neck softly. Then she glides up to the neck and begins on my shoulders.

She applies a firmer pressure which really loosens up my shoulders! Mmmm!!!!!!!!!! She slowly rakes her fingers into my back, a warm tingling spreading over everywhere she touched! Oh, heaven!

I begin to close my eyes as she moves down to my legs and paws, with a firm but soft pressure. She soothes my tired paw pads and whispers softly to me. She whispers about what a good girl I am, and how much I deserve my massage.

She works her way down my back, and rubs my thighs and back legs. She works her fingers in good and loosens up my strained legs. I let loose and drift off into a day dream. She gently rubs my tail...Aww..

After my massage she brushes me to get off all the loose fur in my undercoat. Massages come in good handy when one wants to get rid of dead hairs.

Want to the the proper techniques of a good massage? Here is a good article on it!:

Does your dog seem tense and stiff? Maybe even a little crabby? If so, consider giving him a massage. A properly performed massage can help release pent up stress and negative energy, resulting in a calm and more peaceful pet.

The sensation of simple touch of the fur (skin) to the manipulation of muscles has shown to enhance the human animal bond, and sometimes even establish it. For the inactive and older pet, as well for the young or working pet, the owner can provide a gentle comforting touch. This helps provide security and calmness and will aid in relieving stress. Be aware that at home massage is different than the massage done by a certified massage therapist. These trained people can provide a more thorough massage, incorporating a variety of techniques.

The benefits from massage are many:

Increased flexibility
A general sense of wellness
Reduction of pain
Increased circulation
Calmness

Massage should always be a calming and gentle activity. Before you begin, make sure your dog is in a comfortable and quiet place. A table, the floor or even on the couch, are good places. The area should be padded and clean, and have plenty of fresh water available. This will allow the pet to receive the most benefit from the massage. The most important part of a massage is relaxation. Do not force your pet to submit to a massage if he really isn't interested. Never massage a lump and do not use massage in an animal with a fever or an infection. As with anything else, there may be times when massage does not help.

A couple of basic techniques that you can use at home include effleurage and passive touch. These are applied only three times during each session.
Effleurage:

Effleurage is a gentle, long stroke, which helps to warm the tissue. The amount of pressure applied to the animal is about 5 grams to a pound. This is a very, very light touch. One hand is on the pet at all time, while the other hand slowly slides down over the face, head, body, tail and outside of the legs. Make sure to go in the direction of the hair growth. Next, gently stroke up the inside of the legs, against the hair growth.

With hand over hand efflurage, one hand starts a stroke as the other hand ends a stroke. This leaves one hand connected to the animal at all times. Centripetal efflurage is a circle motion toward the heart. Be careful not to pull the hair. Do not touch areas of infection, open wounds or lumps.

Passive Touch:

When passive touch is applied, it is done with no pressure at all. Your hand is held on a muscle group only. A hand is held on the head, shoulder, along the side or the thigh and hip. This is done for a few moments. It will produce calmness, and help to relieve some pain. Your pet will be comforted by this weightless touch. Passive touch can be done anytime, while watching television or while out on a walk. Again, areas of infection, bony areas, open wounds and lumps are not touched.

Be sure to come and read my diary tomorrow! I have pictures from when I went to the park and a tale to tell you!!

Bye for now!

Fireworks for Firefly? No thank you....

2008-06-29T19:32:00.001-07:00

I understand completely that the 4th of July is an important human holiday, but why do they explode smelly, smoky, and scary devices??

On my afternoon walk today, mommy and I were walking peacefully. I really like the way the wind tousled my fur and the sun warmed my body. It made me feel confident to walk safely in my neighborhood.

Mommy had my harness strapped onto me, it is my favorite one, the purple one. She had my matching purple nylon lead too. I felt excited about getting out and shedding off some energy.

I had been getting bored recently, because mom hadn't had time to walk since getting the new puppy who can't go places because she doesn't have all her "shots". Apparently I have mine. So finally we slipped away to enjoy some quality time together. Just like it should be... Siren is my baby sister, but I must say waking me up early from my beauty sleep isn't a good idea.

But back to the walk........

We had already walked 1 mile and 1/2 when I saw a pair of teenage boys inside their garden behind their fence. Mommy has known one of them since she was a baby, but the other wasn't familiar. I don't really like Robert, the boy mommy knows, but I ignored him, enjoying my afternoon.

Mommy and I were approaching his house when all off a sudden.....

"CRACK, POP, CRACK, BOOM, CRACK, POP, POP!"

Something scary split through the sky terrifying me! I tried to bolt, but mommy had been prepared and kept a fierce grip on my lead. My heart started pounding, and it pounded even faster when we walked by his house. Mom turned where we normally turn to finish a lap, and started on our 2nd mile when a clash and chorus of,

"BANG, BANG, BANG, POP, BANG,POP, POP"!

I leaped and tried to dash ahead of mommy, tugging disparately against my lead.

My mom tried to console me..

"Firefly, it is okay. They are just fireworks..."

Fireworks? What in the Bark are fireworks?

The smoky smell burned my nose and made my eyes water, but mom hurried us on and we finished our second mile.

Approaching the road to home, I heard the familiar bangs and pops, and anxiously tried to drag mom home..

Finally we got to the safety and quiet of the house.

THANK DOG...

I still don't understand why those boys were lighting fireworks. According to mom they are early. It isn't the 4th of July.

Mom told me not to worry. When the 4th came, I wouldn't have to listen to the dreadful noises.

My Very Psyco Neighbors :)

2008-06-29T14:30:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered if your neighbors were crazy? Well I don't wonder, I KNOW. My neighbors fell from a sour apple tree alright. They are a bit kooky. They are new to the state, town, and neighborhood, but I really don't think they mean to be ignorant.

Our new neighbors are from New Jersey. They are Philippine/Americans. They speak fluent English, but look very dark skinned. They have two high school boys, a newborn, a toddler, and a daughter. A mother and grandmother also live there.

One great thing about our neighbors is, they have a Shetland Sheepdog too. She is a lot older than me, chubbier too. She doesn't seem to like me very much, but I don't mind. She barks at my house a lot.

The two boys seek around outside a lot. Doing only Dog knows what. They really creep my human family out, but they make us pet family nervous.

Today, those feelings were justified.

Today, mommy was cooking something delicious. Pork chops I think. She threw one on the grill and looked outside. A red truck with a matching camper on the bed. A light skinned man and a dark skinned man stepped out, and began muttering to themselves. I eyed them suspiciously and gave them a few ferocious barks. Mommy shushed me.

Mommy settled down with her Aunt and mother on the family couch and they began their ramble and gossip. Mommy and the family laughing rumblings to each other. I hopped up beside mommy and made myself comfortable for a nap.

After dreaming of mountains of squeaky toys, I was woken to hear the sound of air brakes hissing, and tires squelching. I leaped up, hackles raise and barking something fierce. Mommy scooped me up on the couch and coddled me.

"Hush now Firefly. It is only the neighbors' moving truck." Mommy comforted.
But I wasn't having it. I growled and rumble. I peeped out the window and saw something odd. The 'moving truck' was parked in fully on one lane of the road, blocking up coming traffic. The drivers had no way of knowing if someone was coming up the clear lane. The neighbors didn't even bother to flag traffic.

Panic swept through my family when we almost witnessed a head-on collision.

I growled...

My Aunt called the authorities.

Then the loaders LOADED up all the furniture they unloaded and packed it all back into the truck.

The authorities NEVER SHOWED. It had been an hour.

The neighbors loaded their truck back up, and sent it on its way.

Odd huh?

AND YOU THOUGHT YOUR NEIGHBORS WERE CRAZY...

How I came to be with Firefly

2008-06-29T00:25:00.000-07:00

Entry by Firefly's Mommy:

So, you are wondering how Fly and I came to be. It is okay, curiosity is natural. Plus, I really don't mind you asking. I love telling the story about how me and my lifelong friend came to be. Grab a seat and some popcorn and listen up!:

After many months of consideration, I decided to replace my old dog Jett, a black lab mix who ran away. I started off with a few breeds in mind: Yorkies, Jack Russel Terriers, and Chihuahuas. I consulted my grandmother, and she suggested Shetland Sheepdogs.

I was quite inquisitive and watched the Repeat of the AKC Eukanuba Tournament of Champions. The Sheltie was a herding breed, and it was quite right for me. I bought a book and read ALL about them. Their size, purpose, temper, etc. So, it was July. My grandmother decided to get one as an early Birthday present for me. My birthday was in September, but I decided to show my full responsibility to my mom, to show her I could take care of another dog.

So, it was August. I looked in our Local classifieds ads, and answered a few of them: One didn't have any females, one wasn't picking up the phone, and the other gave us some loopy-looed directions. I gave up. Then another Sunday, I picked up the local papers and saw another ad; for sable and white shelties. We called, and the breeder, Tammy Kesterson, said she had one last female. But, she lived in Morristown, Tn, while we lived about a trillion miles away!

So, after buying a crate, food, a collar, a leash, toys, a blanket, puppy-wee-wee pads, and bowls for food, we set out on our 7 hour journey to BRISTOL! After leaving the interstate in Knoxville, we were closer to our destination. Since the drive was far for both us and the Breeder, we decided to meet halfway, at a McDonalds/Gasoline Station.

We got caught in construction, and nearly sweated to death! There was no air conditioning in the jeep, and we rolled all for windows down, but we couldn't get air circulation through the jeep. So, we took the next exit of the highway and were about to be late! I called on my cellphone and told her we'd be there.So, about 30 minutes later we pulled up and a charmingly dressed woman lead ME to her ginger-ale colored van.

Sitting in a large kennel, in a well air conditioned car, sat three of the most adorable puppies I had ever seen. The mother of the pups was sitting in the very back, a beautiful picture. I chose the little female, and I named her Firefly. I took my AKC registration papers with us and we got into the car. We stopped and had lunch. When we brought Fly home, she stared and watched quietly from a corner. I took her out to relieve herself, and put a little water in her dried food for easier chewing. She was 8 wks. old and the breeder said to take her to the vet soon, she had 2 rounds of vaccines but needed some more next month.

So that is how I came to be with Firefly, and I hope she'll be with us many, many long years!

WHY THE NAME FIREFLY?

Alot of people think I named my Sheltie after the insect, but truth is, I never had the bug once in my mind when naming her.

But I will let Firefly tell that:

FROM FIREFLY:

Mommy always said I was special. So special, that I needed a special name. She thought long and hard about my name, trying out different things in nature, human names too. She didn't know what to name me.

As mommy told me, when she was coming to pick me up from my breeder, she heard a song on the radio. The song was 'If Everyone Cared' by the band Nickelback. This is the touching part of the song that mom named me after:

"And in the air the fireflies

Our only light in paradise

We'll show the world they were wrong

And teach them all to sing along"

That is how I got my name!