2010_blog

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3/10/10: Out of energy. Not even 2 pm and feel like a nap. Walked Heidi and Shep early this morning so Shep would poop before going to the groomers. Heidi came up to the house while Shep was gone. They both did great. Heidi met everyone but Zelda. Sissy got a bit to rambunctious and Heidi snapped but I think it was a misunderstanding. Sissy does these snappy teeth things as a happy thing and I don't think Heidi understood it that way. The groomers loved Shep. He was perfect! Took pix when we got home. He looks so pretty. Took them for another walk and then put them both back in the kennel. The weather is so great. The rain got put off until midnight tonight. Hope that goes away too, but from this wind, I doubt it.

3/09/10: Heidi ate yesterday. Gourmet. I had some doggie ice pops which is also good as a warm broth. Poured some over the kibble and chicken and doggie treat freeze dried liver. It worked for both breakfast and dinner. I guess this will be the routine until she is more comfortable. Didn't make it to the vet yesterday, but will today. I bet she only weighs 55 pounds. She should be 75. From what I understand Tish, her mommy was in the hospital for a few weeks before passing away so Heidi's routine has been disrupted for awhile. That is probably why she is so thin. Also learned she went everywhere with Tish; store, hair dressers. As long as the weather was cool, Heidi was with, riding in the passenger seat. Hopefully she will be comfortable enough to get groomed by weeks end and can move into the house.
Rained a bit last night, but no thunder. It is scheduled to rain the rest of the week. Darn! I didn't get those roses cut back yesterday either. Did get a lot done with the dogs, thanks to Sue's help. Everybody got long walks. Tiya also made friends with Sue while I did some kennel cleaning. Get through this nasty weather week and I'll try to find time to take Tiya to the park for a walk. She will have opportunity to meet people and other dogs. Maybe that is what she needs. I know being alone 90% of the day is sure not advantageous, but I don't have any other options. Breaks my heart.

3/08/10: Another beautiful morning and day to look forward to. I am so glad Spring is here, even though not officially. Since it has not been freezing at night, I leave the gate open into the yard at night. Something kept them interested all night. The only ones inside were Charlie and Lacy. Sweetness made trips back and forth. Never a sign of the others all night, except for barking. I could sleep through the barking since it was way up on the hill, 480 feet away. It was really nice! I did briefly wake up at 2 am. I shined the spotlight up in that direction and 5 pair of eyes shined back so I was content to go back to sleep. What was really amazing is that "I" got to wake the dogs up this morning!
     Heidi is still not eating. I know she is hungry. She sniffs the bowl and then walks away. It is the food she was eating that they sent with her. Maybe the lady put dog gravy or something on it. I just don't know but it's obviously wrong the way it is.   They both ignored the Verve (Honest Kitchen stuff). I've got 3 large boneless chicken breasts cooking right now. She turns up her nose at the chicken mix I give the others. Will try straight chicken. I'm putting a roast in for lunch so will leave off the seasoning so if need be, I'll have some of that to give her. If she was not so thin already, I would not be as concerned. Going to take her in for a rabies shot and get some Drontal plus for her today. If I can't get her to eat the Verve or anything, I can't count on the DE (that I mix in) to do the worming.
     I'm going to really hint for Loren to make me some gates for each end of the front deck. That way, we can sit out there this year without have the dogs on leash. We like to have 2 with us. With the gates, they can roam around and we can relax rather then getting them untangled constantly. I think the gates he made a few years ago for an unfinished project may fit with a little addition. Just not sure how we'll hinge them without taking down a railing. Toting the welder up a flight of stairs would not be conducive to a happy day.

3/07/10: 3:00 a.m.: When I called Loren from Yellville yesterday he said "I just knew this was going to happen", meaning I was calling to see if I could bring Shep home. So far, Shep appears to be one of those near perfect dogs. I put him in with Heidi, who is grieving the loss of her mom. Hopefully today she will come out of her dog house. When Carol N. brought her over, she brought Heidi's moms pajamas so she would have the comforting smell. Heidi rests her head on them. It is just heartbreaking. How do you explain to a dog that their mommy died and they were not abandoned or unloved. I practically crawled in the dog house with her, but didn't want her to feel any more fearful then she was already. I'm looking forward to day light so I can go down and love on her. When she is more comfortable, I'll bring her in the house and try Tiya with Shep, as long as she does not try to intimidate him or eat him. He will make a good friend for her if she will let him.   Shep will get a much needed grooming hopefully Tuesday and neutered on Thursday. By then Lacy will have went home and maybe Zelda won't be quite as jealous when Heidi comes up. Two extras is more then the queen can handle :-)
    Anyway, the puppies got their puppy shot and wormed. I took the stuff out with me. The people are just great. Leah is such a nice lady and her grandkids are such nice teenagers/young adults. I'm so glad I got to meet them. The puppies are safe until I can convince Loren to let me bring them home. Need some more help and then their will be a chance.
4:40 pm: A busy day but it felt good. Sunshine!! Warm!! Shep got 3 long walks today, 1 alone and 2 with Heidi. The first walk, I was hoping if left alone, she would eat. No luck. Then tried again later and she was pacing like crazy wanting to go with so went back and got her too. Set on a tree stump for about 40 minutes hoping she would eat. She would come for attention and then wander around. Shep never left my side. He certainly enjoys all the petting. Once he went over to Heidi's food and I just said "no, that's not yours" and he walked away! Talk about good dog. And he is excellent on leash. Great in the car. Let me put de-wormer down his throat.   I even felt totally comfortable forcing his mouth open for it. He does not like the ticks on his face pulled off, but they will fall off by tomorrow from the Frontline anyway (I hope).   Grooming has to be Wednesday. They are booked. Shoot. Oh well. Not sure when Heidi will be comfortable enough to be groomed. I was told her mommy was always right by her side during grooming so this will be an emotional challenge for both of us when the time comes.
    I spent time with Tiya. Took her for a short walk. I think her leg bothers her so we don't go far. Then I mended several pair of levis while she watched. She sure hated to see me leave. I really hope Heidi will be able to come to the house and Tiya will get along with Shep. It would make me so happy to know Tiya was not so miserable and alone. So with a lot of dog walking, dog petting, picture taking, petfinder posting, 3 dog shuffling sessions, I also got about 8 loads of laundry done (last on is in the dryer now), and floors and kitchen cleaned. Bath is going to feel so good tonight.

3/06/10: Non-stop yesterday. Several trips to the groomers. Picked up puppy shots for the Pyr puppies that I'll be going out to see today. No news on the GSD yet. Nancy came and we walked everybody. Goofy got to go twice since Lacy was still at the groomers. Loren came down with my last weekend 'crud' and stayed in bed a good part of the day. Better today but still not totally over it. Brought Tiya up for an hour and she began really being a pest. She could have stayed longer, but kept trying to get in my lap again and pawing me when I would stop petting her. She is just getting way too attached, but how do you give them love and attention and not let that happen, especially when they had only known abuse and neglect in the past. She really needs a home now! Zelda took issue with Lacy so I had that to deal with. Just don't know what is up with her. Do dogs get hormonal even if they have been spayed for years? Or is it middle age? That 40 something syndrome? I just hope it passes as hate to separate her.
Today is one of those days (so far as is only 10: am) that I have the jitters. Not sure why. Maybe just going out to see the Pyrs. Know I will have trouble not bringing them home. I always have visions of 'perfect' but know reality and perfect is pretty rare. Just wish I had a foster home pool and more volunteers. Not feeling 100% physically is pretty tough to deal with psychologically too.

3/04/10: I felt really ambitious this morning. Before getting dressed I decided the sliding glass doors were way over due for a cleaning. I clean from the kitchen side on all 6 sections and then cleaned the inside in Bears room. Then I went outside and began the deck side. Lesson 1: You can not clean glass in temperatures below freezing. Lesson 2: Windex does indeed freeze. Hopefully I will have the ambition to finish later today if the temp gets warm enough. Anyway, I dished out dog food and set it on the counter while the honest kitchen stuff rehydrated. I headed for the bath. Decided the mirrors needed cleaning. The mirrors are tub top to ceiling on 2 full walls. I got the extender squeegee, which would not telescope. Finally with force, I got it to expand, however then it would not tighten into place. Holding it extended, I stretched it to the ceiling, but as I worked it down, it slowly crept back into it's hiding place. With so many dizzy spells, I was not going to risk standing on the side of the tub. The mirrors look adequate. By now the tub was a mess, so cleaned it, then took a bath. I forgot about the lump on my head until I started washing my hair this morning. Curling and combing took some caution also. In the mean time Loren fed the dogs.
Meeting Cathy this afternoon about AC stuff. Then most likely getting a GSD and still need to go to Yellville and take pix of the 3 Pyrs and decide what to do about them. Charlie and Lacy get groomed tomorrow. Nancy is coming tomorrow too, to help with the dogs. Late next week Loren and I are going to plan an "us" day. Be nice if the weather is good and we could have a picnic on the boat. Take Chipi. She loves the boat ride. Oops, I forgot, it's an 'us' day......

3/03.10: The day was going pretty good until me, the vacuum and the wall had a conflict. That wall won. My head lost. I have a knot the size of a jaw breaker on the back. Even my teeth hurt! I think the dogs thought Bear attacked me as the 'through the glass door' attack ensued. No one came to MY rescue or to see how I was. What loyalty! Then they all ran outside to chase the UPS truck. By this time, Loren had come to my rescue. I don't really think the dogs knew I was in good hands. They just found something more interesting them mommy laying on the floor holding her head on and daddy asking where the hammer was so he could pound the knot back down. No sympathy around here.
Bear and Tiya did not get their special time today. I feel really bad about that. Will make up for it tomorrow.
Well, Sahara is letting me know it is 3:59 and I am not fixing her dinner yet. She won't shut up until I go do it. Geeze, to be controlled by a dog!

3/02/10: Gloomy weather all day. Too cold to walk the dogs. Bear was on this side all morning. After lunch, I brought Tiya up and we spent several hours in the family room. She really wanted to climb in my lap, but there is not enough room for both of us in the glider rocker. She is getting so affectionate. I just wish it were with a forever family. Breaks my heart she has been here so long. Her leg seems to be getting worse lately. I had it x-rayed the week she came because she was limping. Vet said it was healing fine and there was really nothing that could be done at this point. The break had been neglected too long. Now I am wondering if it should have been casted.   I went by what the vet said, but sometimes... well, nothing I can do now as that was 4 months ago today. I'm giving her DGP as she does seem uncomfortable.
     Sue came yesterday and we got everyone walked and a lot done. Jason is doing as expected. I sent a bark collar home with her. He will remember it and should respond with just the sight and smell of it. Thank goodness he has not torn anything up. Re-arranged a few things, but no destruction. She's going to keep at it, but knows if her becomes a problem, to bring him back. It's nice not having a puppy around, but I'd much prefer Tiya get the special attention. She is so sweet and just needs someone to give her a chance.
    All are fed and taking their after dinner nap so they can be alert tonight. I'm still leaving the 'easy listening' music on all night. Amazing how it has helped settle my thoughts and I'm getting about 5 hours sleep most nights. Such a simple solution to a life long problem. DUH! Now if I could just convince Bear I don't need him to ward off the perceived enemy all night, I could do even better.

3/01/10: February slipped away while I slept. Barely out of bed all weekend. The dogs were not all that sympathetic but Loren was. He knows I don't give in unless I just can't do otherwise. So hungry this morning, but nothing sounds good. Still that nauseous feeling. But got to hang in there at least long enough to get a few loads of laundry done. Sue may be by this afternoon and I'll ask her to change the dogs water and poop scoop. I hate asking anyone to do other then walk the dogs or brush them. I just don't think I can manage without putting myself back in bed. These are 2 things I just don't let go. Loren has done the primary water, but there are so many extra waters to clean. Maybe I'm too fanatical.
      What I really hate about this weekend is I was not able to take advantage of the beautiful weather. Today is gloomy and turning cold again. Also had to put off lunch with Ken and Linda that we had planned. All such a waste. I don't do 'sick'.
      I let Bear in on the bed with me yesterday. He was so happy but boy were the others upset. Sahara was really upset. She likes Bear. Think she has a crush on him, but I'm her goat and in her mind, he was either a threat or had taken her job. Sweetness also went ballistic. She sleeps on the bed with me and he was in her place. She took it out on Chipi through the glass and fence. Put them together and they are both passive. They have both done damage to one another in the past so they tread lightly when there is no protective barrier. Anyway, I watched several movies and gave Bear a lot of petting. He was in his glory.
     Loren watched movies in the family room with Tiya for several hours. She was in her glory too. Although she prefers me, she did great and was so happy for the attention. She wants to play with the other dogs, but it always ends up badly. I wish there really was such a thing as a pet psychic. I want so badly to do the best I can for her. I'm just not keen enough to figure out what her trigger is.
     Goofy still looks so pretty. He is acting like he knows it too. He has been so silly. More then normal. Parker has too. I saw Parker playing 'catch the stick' with himself the other day. It was so funny. So out of character for an old dog. Spring must have been in the air because they were certainly having a personality bloom.
     Zelda has had the bandage off for 2 days. No blood, but she sure is limping. Still on pain meds and antibiotics. I'm concerned. She is not a complainer, but has wanted way more attention then usual. Normally she is quite independent. Dynamics are changing and I need to be watching those changes. Goofy ends up being kept out and I'm not sure who is his nemesis.   Goofy is sort of like the guy they call Moose in high school. The big guy with the big heart who's size is intimidating, but whose heart is full of compassion.
    Now, Lacy is the perfect dog. She is just so amazing. I could have 20 of her in the house and never be stressed. Never barks. Never in the way. Waits to be called for attention or what ever. Never bothers the others. Knows the routine.   I'm so glad I found such a great home for her with people who truly know what an exceptional girl she is. Her visit has been wonderful.   I just wish she were not so camera shy.

2/26/10: Spring peeked its way into the afternoon. I am so ready! Goofy and Charlie got groomed. I can't believe how white Goofy is. Not the slightly off white, but like fresh snow. He's good for another 6 months and I know that suits him just fine. Snapped a couple of pix I'll download shortly. He won't look this good for long.
When we picked them up in the late afternoon, it was so nice, we decided to give everybody a walk. Loren took Goofy. I took the rest in shifts, 2 at a time. They were very excited but 4 days in a row made for them not to be so rambunctious.
Sahara spent a good part of the day with Bear, by choice, both on this side and his side. She was cautious on this side as he can get pretty territorial. Then after feeding everyone goes outside. I let Chipi over (Bear is alone) and Sahara started her 'I'm going to eat you up' dance. I will never understand this 'barrier' thing. Put most of them together and all is fine. Put them on opposite sides of a barrier and it's war. Doesn't matter who.

2/25/10: Zelda got her bandage changed and Rob said it is healing great and the bandage can come off Saturday. That is great news. Zelda is still a bit growly, but nothing as bad as before. Reluctant to get in the car at the house, but delighted to get in leaving the vet. She probably thought she was going to be left behind again. Everybody did so good last night. Lacy stays with Loren, Goofy alternates between living room and kitchen. The rest keep close tabs on me either from the kitchen or around or on the bed. I got about 5 hours sleep. So needed.
Weather is so pretty, but still cold. A bright sunny day makes such a difference even if we have to bundle up. Tiya enjoyed her short walk and will spend the day in the big kennel with a Kong full of kibble and treats. Nancy will be over later and the rest will get walked. Zelda has to be left behind. She sure wants to go but not healed enough yet. Chipi has been spending full days on this side and it's going great. Poor Bear, all alone, but no chance. Such a shame to have one dog (Tiya) that I can't trust with anyone and another (Bear) that I can't put with ANY males. He looks so sad through the sliding glass door.
Linda called yesterday. She finally located the AC in West Plains. Another situation where the animals are put down in 5 days. At least here most make it to the web site. There, they don't even bother. Linda is going to keep an eye and I'll start calling once a week. I got several really great dogs (2 Pyrs and 2 GSDs) there before and know I could get others homes. What is so sad is people who lose their dog wait for someone to find them rather then being pro-active and doing the leg and phone work that is required to get their dog back. Not all dogs picked up are unwanted so being diligent is critical with a 5 day hold rule. This goes for EVERY Animal Control facility. Micro-chip and tag, no matter how safe you think your pet is.

2/24/10: What a difference changing dynamics can have! Moving Zelda to the shop while she heals was good for me. Maybe not for her, but only having one dog keeping the others out was much easier. Tiya was in the big kennel and did not bark any more then usual. Jason went to Sue's who will foster him. Will check later today to see how it went last night. AND I had forgotten just how sweet Lacy is. She spent the entire night right next to Loren's bed. If they were all as sweet as she is, we'd start rescuing Collies. I'm serious. She is right by his desk now even though he is not there. Guess she is awaiting his return. I can't believe the reduced stress level last night. I find it hard to believe it's Zelda. Jason was out at night, but not sure how that played into the doggie moods and night barking. He was not much of a barker, but then Bear takes full responsibility for that and has for more years then I care to remember. Only negative (besides feeling guilt for 2 dogs not in the house instead of one) is an extra stop in the feeding process and bowl retrieval.
    Suppose to go back to the Chiropractor today and Friday. Have my doubts. I have a cramp in a part of my back I never had before and it is not going away. And a headache in a spot that is unusual. All he did was some pulsating things and some thumping things, both of which were annoying as hell. Wish insurance covered a professional massage. I know from the x-rays, I'm stuck with this. Onset of osteoporosis and an old spinal fracture (no clue when or how). Was hoping fixing the back would help the stomach since it didn't work the other way around. Food makes my back feel better, but is just not digesting normally. People talk about being 'bent over a toilet', I'll be bent on a toilet. Time to spend less time on the computer and more time walking.   The dogs will agree.
     3:30 pm: OK, I quit. No more chiropractor. I told him I had sensitive skin when he went to put on this cream. Well, he assured me it would be fine. WRONG. I washed it off before I ever left the room, but knew I was in trouble. By the time I got home, I had Loren help me wash again with my hyper allergenic soap. He said I already have blisters. Not only that, even with our very good insurance, if I went as often as he required, we'd be out of pocked over $500 a month!!!   Loren read the brochure before I went in today and he said too, the treatment looked like BS. Maybe I'll just have a half hour a week professional massage at $20.
    The 'kids' are already telling me it's dinner time. They start earlier and earlier every day. not going to happen or they will be wanting fed 3 x a day and then 4. Need to finish laundry and wash their bowls. By then it will be 'about that time'.

2/23/10: Things have went smoothly after yesterday's fiasco. Picked up Zelda at 9. Put her in the shop and moved Tiya to the big kennel. Took Zelda down a bed. Four hour later and she is sound asleep on it. I feel really bad when they don't all get 'togetherness'. Betty dropped off Lacy at 11. She was happy to see us, but looked pretty sad when they left without her. She has gotten re-acquainted with everyone, but as before, sticks pretty close to us. Sold the old truck today. Had a number of people looking at it. One guy committed and will pick it up shortly. In the mean time another guy who kept hem-hawing showed up with a trailer ready to buy it. He drove all the way from Yellville for nothing. He should have called first. Nancy will be down at 2 and we'll walk dogs. Poor Zelda won't get to do her favorite thing. Best that she is in the shop or she would really have her feelings hurt. Sue will pick up Jason after work and foster him. As long as he does not get bored, he will be good. I'll send his favorite Kong, ball and a Nylabone. I'd have preferred Tiya go, but she is still nervous and the 'connection' was not there. Tiya's time will come.... I hope. I feel really bad that Sue came yesterday and we missed her by about 5 minutes. It was just so hectic with 2 dr. appointments and Zelda cutting her pad. I still don't have all the blood cleaned up. Rand down the wall behind the baseboards and came through the dog bed cover. The deck has red paw prints all over it. I should have sprayed it off yesterday. Oh well, if it won't come off, it will be a conversation item.

2/22/10: Non-stop all day. It's not even 6 pm and I'm heading for the bath and bed real soon. 8 am Doctor app. was a waste of time and money. Yes, I know I have a sensitive stomach, and No, I did not come in for a colonoscopy. Got home about 9:30 and scrubbed the living room floor on my hands and knees for about 2 hours. The grout lines get so bad so I section it off and do a bit every few weeks and then start over. Loren helped with the final mopping. Made a chiropractor appointment for 1:30 and was heading out the door to grab some lunch first when Zelda came in bleeding profusely from the paw. Detoured to the vet and dropped her off. Luckily I got Wendy. Zelda got a gash in her pad over an inch long. Other then bandaged, antibiotics and pain meds, not much can be done. Anyway, while Zelda was being attended to, we grabbed some lunch. I had forgot my glasses so back tracked to the house. I did make my appointment just on time. Was there until 4:30!!! Loren had picked up Zelda. Boy was she in a mood. He had her inside and everybody else outside. Fed her and when I went to let her out and the others in to eat, noticed blood all over the floor again. Bandage was soaked. Called the vet, we were on our way back in. I'm leaving her there over night as have to figure out how I am going to keep her separated at night. I'm out of space and Lacy is coming tomorrow for several weeks. Everybody here in the house has to get along! My only option is move Tiya to the big kennel that only has a cover and dog houses and put Zelda in the shop. She is totally not going to understand that. Don't think she has ever even been in there. I could put her in the family room and walk her to potty just before bed and early in the morning, but being in there all day will not work. If it rains, the shop kennel will be mud and I am really doomed. That will decrease my options even more. If Zelda was just not such a difficult patient. She is hurting and she wants everybody to know it, so steer clear if you want to keep your nose, or ear or leg. Anyway, after dropping her off, there was still enough day light so I walked the whole 2 acres back and forth. I thought maybe someone threw a glass bottle over the fence and she got cut on it. Did not find anything. Thought there would be a bunch of blood as a clue to help locate the culprit, but nothing. Darkness has arrived so need to get everybody on this side of the gate. Sure don't need more blood from a second victim in the middle of the night and an emergency vet visit. Enough of those already.

2/21/10: Rain. 3:32 and Sahara has been telling me it's dinner time since 2:00. Guess it seems late to her because of the dark sky. Me too. Tiya and I spent quality time today. The family room is separate so I watched a couple of movies and petted her and we worked on commands. She let me know when she had to go potty. After about 3 hours, I took her back to the shop. It was noon and the rain was coming down pretty good. I turned up the stereo for her because the rain on the metal roof is pretty loud. Loren laughed at me as I used her breakfast bowl as a hat when I came back up.
Jason has been in all day and been so good. I heard a ruckus and got up but it was just him playing 'catch' with himself and a ball in the living room. He thought he was in trouble until I threw it for him and then gave it back to him to keep. He is just becoming such a good boy. Goofy started putting him in his place late yesterday, so I think his pride got a bit wounded. The older ones will only tolerate so much. I'm going to have to put Zelda back on valium. She is really getting testy when any of the dogs walk past her. Started a year ago and I had all her blood tests and everything checked out healthy. Just attitude. I had her on it for awhile. Just hate doing meds, but also hate those low unpredictable growls.
Everybody got their DE and Ivermectin today. Mixed it all up in their Honest Kitchen stuff. They really like the Verve, but only some of them like the Embark. Next box will be the Preference. I alternate them around as a box goes empty. Parker eats anything. Oh, and Sissy has been eating good. Still leaving a dab of kibble but pretty much back to her normal eating. This beef roast business is going to be decreased over the next week. Hopefully she won't notice.

2/20/10: Going to be one of 'those' days. Started last night. I could not find Sissy. I'm calling and calling. Finally go out with a flash light. Still don't see her. I begin to panic. As I turn to go back to wake up Loren, there she is. Somehow she was in with Jason. She must have went in the garage much earlier and went to sleep. When I put him up, I just hand him his Kong and close the gate. I never look in the garage as it is pretty much his territory. I'm amazed he didn't throw a fit since he values his Kong and is very possessive of it. And of course by now all the dogs have went into the upper yard so I'm trying to get them back in so I can close the gate. I gave up at that point, watched a movie and by midnight they had all managed to come back. Had to go retrieve Goofy from under the swing on the deck because Zelda growls at him. He needs a personal escort to pass her.   Poor guy. Never had a more passive, non-confrontational dog.
   Trying to do too much this morning and everything goes wrong. More Charlie pee all over so starting off with 3 loads of laundry and mopping. I need to do real cleaning, but these little clean-ups take all my energy. I did manage to get the gate open so only one shovel full to poop scoop. Feeding took quite awhile as I measured out the DE for each dog and mixed it into the Honest Kitchen stuff. A ten minute 'fixing the food' feeding process turned into half an hour. Amazingly everyone cleaned up their bowl except Sissy did leave some kibble.
     Loren did not have his glasses when he bought groceries yesterday and the milk he just bought expired yesterday. Since he opened it and receipt was gone ... I hate waste so made a pie and some pudding. It works for that but definitely not work for me to drink. Luckily there was a bit of orange juice left for me to drink with the biscuits I almost burned and the egg that got crusty while I was trying to save the biscuits and burned my hand. My computer is running like I feel, S L O W . Not just the internet, but the entire system. Probably fighting for it's life amidst the dog hair. My days are not usually like this, but can count on at least 3 to 5 a month and it's only 10 am.

2/19/10: Beautiful weather so most of the dogs got walked. I run out of energy alone. Sissy has been really catching up on her eating. She shared with us which was really nice of her. At $3 a pound (that was the cheapest yesterday) for a roast , it was only fair. She prefers it quick fried with the juices, but I put half of it in the oven and will shave the other half tomorrow and freeze it in meal size pkgs. Waiting for the fat to separate from the juice in the roast drippings. She is eating the kibble when the juice is poured on and the beef mixed in.   The others do not get to smell what she is getting or I'd have a rebellion on my hands. I put her in the bedroom to eat before I let the others in. They get the chicken mixture and Honest Kitchen on their kibble.   The DE came yesterday so I did some more research. Can't find anything negative. I added it to Jason's and Parker's food this evening. I'll start the others tomorrow evening. I spend about $1000 a year on worming, so if this works, it will be an amazing savings (about $950 savings). Just like Ivermectin for HW preventative. $40 for a years supply for 12 dogs vs Heartguard at $900 a year. The vets and pharmaceutical companies really have a thing going!
     Charlie got his weekly bath with his special shampoo. It is kind of not working. He stinks with in hours. He is wearing me out, poor little guy. He peed on the blankets I keep on the area rugs... all of them. I have been washing all day. Seems I just put down all clean and he can't find his way out the door and I'm washing the same one again. Beats steam cleaning. I could just roll the rugs up for the rest of his life, but the others still need their blankets on the tile floor (I'm short a few mattresses) so I'd be washing them anyway.
     It is so quiet. I'm sure they are saving up their energy for tonight. Not quite dark, but when the yard lights kick on, it's like they get turned on too. Time to put Jason up for the night. I always feel bad, but would not sleep at all if her were inside to run free, get bored and eat something he was not suppose to.   Then a hot, peaceful bath unless Sahara decides I'm in 'danger' and comes to protect me. Yes, she even tells me when I have been in the tub too long. How could I not love a dog that places my well bring above everything else in her life (besides eating).

2/18/10: Sissy ate last night. Not much, but adequate. She ate a little again this morning. I cooked the shaved roast just enough to get juices and then poured it over the dab of kibble. She left the kibble but ate the beef. At $2.79 a pound, this is not going to be a cheap feed but cheaper then more vet bills. Just wish I could get her to eat one of the Honest Kitchen vegetable mixes with the meat. I've got Europa so will try a bit of it this evening. Just hate when stuff is wasted. And I hate when I try to do the right thing and it backfires. She was fine (nutrition wise) before I had her ears and teeth cleaned.
    It does not look near as cold as it actually is outside. By the time I finished poop scooping (with leather gloves) my fingers were numb. Broke ice on their water, but cleaning and re-filling will have to wait until this afternoon.
    Rex and Koda both got adopted. I courtesy list and find good adopters for 4 dogs in 2 weeks, but I've had 3 here for several months! Something is wrong with this picture. Parker is not an issue, but Jason is growing up here and that's not good. Tiya is getting so attached, that is not good either. The longer it takes, the harder on the dog... I know. That is why I have 3 more of my own then ever intended; Chipi, Sweetness and Sahara.
      Nancy came down and all the dogs got walked. Goofy and Zelda wanted to go each time. By the last group, we were shedding our jackets. It turned out to be really nice weather. When I have someone to walk with me and share conversation, I can walk several miles. Alone, I'm worn out after a half mile.
    Afternoon: I was about to fall asleep so laid down for a nap. Total waste. Felt bad for Tiya so went down to get her. Tiya walked herself. She needed to run and is usually good to come when called, but she got sidetracked. Went over the fence, started a riot. She went after Goofy. Sweetness went after her. Sissy stayed out of the way. When the fight started on this side, Jason was on the other side and went after Zelda. The others just watched. They all just need to be in a smaller pack. Just too many dogs all together and tensions are running high. Zelda is at her whit's end. She is tired like me.
    Got my doctor appointment moved up to this Monday. I feel really good today but know I best go anyway. The DE came in today and I'll start the dogs on it. I'll wait until after I go in to start taking it myself.
    Sahara is over here staring at me. She is letting me know it is almost meal time. At least she is not barking as usual. We had a discussion about that last night and this morning. Sweetness was asleep on the floor next to me and just farted so bad, she jumped up and ran!! Me too.

2/17/10: I've worked with Kristina's Critters in MO. but had not visited her petfinder web page. It was just passed on to me and it expresses beautifully, and so sadly and honestly, what life can be like for an unwanted dog in the Ozarks. Click here for a reality read.
     Sissy is still not eating. Loren bought a beef roast which I shaved and fed her raw. She ate some the first day, but that was 3 days ago. Not touched but one or 2 bites since. She won't eat the cooked chicken that she use to love. Won't touch her kibble at all. Her teeth were cleaned and ears flushed 2 weeks ago yesterday and she has not eaten more then a cup of chicken and a cup of beef all totaled in 2 weeks. She does not even appear to be losing weight although she has plenty of it. I'm still really worried. A call to the vet last week was fruitless. Take her off the Ketoconacol. Well, considering she hadn't gotten any down her but the first day, it wasn't that. They said her teeth were in great shape. Her ear seem to be better. She is not digging at it, although the other ear is really draining, and it was not the ear she had trouble with. I'm suppose to be getting a 'hot off the press' holistic cook book for dogs from one of my adopters who's friends with the author. Hopefully there will be something that will entice Sissy to eat. In the mean time, she goes into the vet tomorrow. (A cost I don't feel is justified).
    Caught Jason chewing on his favorite 'to chew' mattress. It must have had something in it that attracts him. They are used crib mattresses which I re-cover for the dog beds, but who knows what could have seeped inside through the holes in the covers before I re-covered them. Anyway, when I caught him in the act, he ducks his head, rolls over and shows his belly in a submissive position. He is learning it saves him from a 'time out'. He is very smart.
    Charlie continues to go down hill. He still acts like a puppy at meal time, especially breakfast. He can manage to follow smells, but is losing all sense of direction without them. He finds his way to the food room really good and can still manage to slide open the pocket door and clean up any dropped kibble. Finding the doggie door is about a 50-50 deal. I clean up as much inside as I do on the deck. Once he has passed on, we'll have to re-wood the entire deck. Water seal is no match for urine and the deck really is saturated. Glad tile does not absorb!   The weekly baths are not doing much either for the smell. He's on the yeast infection medication and shampoo. It worked the first week and into the second, but not the bath is wearing off within 2 days. Still got 2 days to go to the next bath. Smell is nauseating.

2/16/10: Loren went to bed early so I read for several hours. That put me to sleep, along with the fact I got so little the night before. Slept through most of Bears barking. I don't sleep through Saharas' new ... a word will come to me ... whispering? She has started making this weird, very quiet noise at night. She is not asleep so it's not 'talking in her sleep' like Sandy the Saint did. This is ... as if she is humming along with the easy listening music I put on at night. I wonder if that is it? We hear dogs sing along to other music so why would humming along to quiet instrumentals be unlikely? WOW! Could that be what it is? My guardian is singing me to sleep.
The weather is still cold, but no snow or rain or wind. We were able to walk the dogs in the afternoon. They were excited as it has been a rare event in the past month. Bear and Chipi were 'over' all morning and switched at noon. I spent an hour in the shop with Tiya, just sitting on the floor petting her most of the time. Took her for a long walk on my second visit down before I gave her dinner. I just wish I knew if her and Rex would be friends. I hate not getting him, but if it didn't work, I'd be screwed. Since the person who was going to foster didn't show up, I would not have an alternative if she didn't get along with him.

2/15/10: Sue came over and we brushed dogs, and walked Bear & Chipi. It was just too cold for humans to be outside. The rest of the dogs were upset they didn't get a walk. Sahara actually tolerated being near someone other then me as Sue helped brush her. She really needs someone besides this human goat in her life. Goofy had been the first to be brushed and several hours later as Sue was leaving she said "Didn't we brush him?" His coat has a mind of it's own and a brushing never lasts. We made 2 visits with Tiya. I poop scooped on the second visit so I would not be a distraction. Tiya was getting almost secure in licking the Kong Sue was holding while I was outside. This is a clue to how I can help Tiya get confident. She wants so bad to have people to love and be loved by, but still unsure. Having an unattended broken leg while pregnant and nursing the pups really effected her trust in humans. Breaks my heart for her. How many other dogs know nothing but suffering and are put down as "unsocial" because of uncaring humans, both on the abandonment end and the shelter end? I just wish I could take more with problems but not enough time, and definitely not enough energy.
The person who called several times to volunteer to foster didn't show up. That saddens me. I was really hoping to go pick up Rex today, but can't now. The MS lady canceled on account of the weather. Without an application for me to look over and check out, it would be a waste of her time anyway.

2/14/10: "Rex" is a great dog. Took about 15 minutes for him to trust me, but once he did, I will be his friend for life. I hated coming home without him. He is not in a bad situation, just awfully close to a semi-busy road and no fence. He is so terribly lonely. Since I have a potential adopter coming from MS on Monday and a possible foster home offer coming on Monday also, I may be able to go get Rex Tuesday. Rex would go to the foster. I need to get him vet checked and his shots and neutered first before I intermingle him with another dog. He's not had anything.
Sissy and Charlie are not doing well. Charlie is going down hill fast. He is having a hard time getting up. Once up, he's fine, but just can't get his legs under him to push himself up. I hear his little paws on the tile 'running' and not going anywhere. I have a hard time lifting him even though he's only 30- 35 pounds. Deaf and near blind and incontinent too. If Sissy ever can't get up, we'll need a crane. So far she can swing her body around and manages, but sometimes it takes awhile. Then I think about the age of all the rest. This will be a doggie retirement home before too many more years.
I don't want to commit to any more rescues until after I get a diagnosis from the doctor. I go for consultation with a specialist on March 3rd. I do want to keep posting dogs and help people find them good homes. The need is just as great and it doesn't cost anyone anything. I'm finding it is almost as rewarding and emotional as bringing them here and getting to know them before they leave. Things turned out so great for Curly and Satchel and I felt just as emotionally touched as if I had actually met them. The store will open as soon as weather is predictably good and that will keep me busy. I so look forward to starting the 'assistance program' and being able to provide what is necessary for individuals to keep their pets rather then having to give them up because they can't afford food or vet care or need a fence repaired or a dog house.

2/13/10: Question: Do you prefer pages to open in a new window or replace the page you are on? In other words, would you rather "close" a page when done or hit the "back" button? email I've been working on this site and am trying to make it as user friendly as possible. With so many new monitors with different ratios, there is no way to make it work on everyones settings, but I hope to find a happy medium. Opening pages is an easy one so will start with that. Any other site issues? Is the new wider width working for everyone? Trying to fill the available portion of your monitor but not making anyone scroll across.
      All went great for Satchel, the ASD I helped find a home for. The relinquishing owner called and was so pleased. The man came, played with Satchel, instant bond was formed and Satchel jumped right into his vehicle ready to go home with him. She said Satchel was not one for going for a ride so she was really surprised. Sounds like it is a relationship that was meant to be. I am just so happy for both dogs and all the people involved. Love happy new beginnings.
     Going out to Bexar to meet and take pix of "Rex" for a lady. She has been trying to find him a home for a month or more. I offered help before. Now she is ready for it. I wish I could just bring him home, but without help, I just could not handle another young male. I finally have Jason at a good adoptable point and Rex sounds even more of a challenge since he has had no guidance what so ever. Happy, playful pup bored into destructo dog.   Everything she says about him sounds so typical so I know he is a good dog with great potential. Just needs someone to spend time teaching him manners and rules.
     Speaking of help, Linda has been great to pass the word around that I need volunteers and about the store. I miss her since she has been working. It's just so great she is still helping in ways she can. Thanks Linda.

2/12/10: Loren's Birthday. Not sure what is on the agenda. I was up most of the night 'rescuing' what ever dog got blocked outside. They all wanted to go running up the hill and patrol since it was warm. I closed the gate and doused their enthusiasm. Whom ever is the last one gets blocked out by the others, barks for 'help' and I have to get up and move dogs so they can come in. This went on about every half hour. I am suppose to change Jason's bandage every day but failed to even get it off before going to bed. Since I was still awake at 2 am, I went out and tried again. Guess it's a trip to the vet this morning and tomorrow morning to have them do it. Here I was so proud of Jason for not removing it. Maybe he couldn't? But he did leave the bag on it, so maybe he was being good.
I'm useless when it comes to nurse stuff. Took Jason in to be re-bandaged because they said to change it daily. Two vet's checked his paw and said it was looking fine so the bandage stays off. That is great.
We had lunch in town. Nothing fancy. Was going to switch dogs around but several were asleep including Jason, so didn't have the heart to wake them. Bear and Chipi will just get extra long tomorrow. And Tiya too. Hope weather stays dry or shuffling just won't happen.

2/11/10: Follow up from yesterday: Curly is being adopted locally so that is great. He won't be going to LR into rescue so worked out well including I made a new rescue contact. A super lady who does Setters, Pointers, Standard Poodles etc. Satchel may have a home and Koda is still getting enquires.
     Yesterday morning I took the prescription from the doctor. I had procrastinated, talked to the pharmacist and did online research. I just did not feel good about this stuff. I went ahead and figured what harm can one dose do? Answer: A lot! Felt terrible by about an hour after taking it and got progressively worse. My internal organs finally settled down about 2:00 a.m. Needless to say, I am not repeating the experiment.
     Now to this morning: I am so proud of Jason.   Not only was the bandage still on his foot, so was the ziplock bag! And he had not even chewed up the stuffed toy I gave him. It was still stuck through the fence where I put it for him to pull through. I am totally amazed. I'm going to re-do his write up today.
     I did not open up the gate until it was completely light out because we had a visitor last night. Contrary to popular desires (and possible beliefs) Skunks do not hibernate. At least one critter didn't. After thorough smelling of all in attendance, no one got sprayed, thank God. There is a small space on the outside of the fence that goes under the deck a small distance so I suspect it got under there, dogs barked and it let 'er rip.   Parker use to get out under the deck so guess it was a good thing he showed me the hole a few months ago so I got it blocked off. Otherwise I'm sure several would have gotten fumigated had it come into the yard.

2/10/10: I, like many of you, get emails and snail mail form various animal groups. Some I read, some I skim and some go in the trash unopened. There is one I do read that comes from a Houston group. I became very interested in a site that they linked. http://www.nathanwinograd.com/ I always felt the HSUS and ASPCA did NOT DO anything like they said. I had made contact with these "famous" groups on various occasions and did not hang up with any 'warm fuzzy' feeling. I felt they were just saying what they figured I wanted to hear. The rehearsed self proclamation of how wonderful they were and how my donation would go to a good cause. Does good mean good for the CEO or good for the animals? My questioning of the HSUS began with EDNAH. As far as I know, there was only one paid person from HSUS. The others were volunteers, some with paid expenses, others un-paid and un-reimbursed. Since most of the 512 dogs went to a large St. Louis rescue and a large Texas rescue, I don't see how the HSUS expenses could have been close to a quarter of a million dollars ($250,000)?
    The ASPCA does not support any shelters other then their own in NYC. They don't send money to organizations calling themselves XYZ-SPCA, nor do they oversee them. You could form a group and call yourself an SPCA and you don't even have to be non-profit. Or you can call yourself a Humane Society and likewise not be affiliated nor non-profit nor overseen. And you would not even have to house animals!
    All I want to say is before you donate to any cause, do your homework. Help the little guy in your local community that you can actually go out and visit and look at the financial records. We cry when we get $25 or $50 in the mail. The 'big guys' have already spent that just in sending you address labels, posters, a quarterly magazine and promising you a 'tote bag' or 'jacket' for sending $50 or more.
    Now to my dog stuff: All 3 courtesy listings have gotten action. Know Curly is destined for a great rescue in LR. Satchel has a man coming out to meet him in a day or so when the roads are safer. I had interest in Koda but not sure if there was follow up. I might have to 'take over' the communication if there is more interest as don't want to lose a good adopter by having too many people involved. I'm really thrashing around on a Pyr a few hours east of me. A stray taken in by people who can't keep her and can't find her owner. I could put her with Jason. He needs someone to play with, but also needs people. It would be a trade-off, but poor Goofy and Parker would be delighted if Jason were moved to the other area. Jason is becoming an adult and as typical, trying to find his pack position. Since Goofy and Parker are so totally passive, Jason takes advantage.
     I slept almost 6 hours last night! That is unbelievable. I'm sure there were interruptions, but I don't remember laying awake. I closed the yard gate so they were stuck close by. It froze and Parker likes to go up on the hill and I worry about him. Knowing they are 'safe' makes me more relaxed. Plus when the go running out, sometimes Sahara or Zelda will come in a block the door and the others can't get back in. The urge to run out is cut down when there is a gate 30 feet in front of them impeding their travels out onto the property. Sweetness shared my pillow and Sissy kept my feet warm. Last night it was just the opposite.
     Bear and Chipi are sound asleep right next to me. They are getting the morning session. Tiya will get in during the middle of the day and then the rest in the afternoon. It's a calm cold outside so they are not suffering as they may think they are.
   Got a pot full of chicken needing cut and rice to cook for the dogs. Will need to go pick up oatmeal, more green beans and carrots before I can mix up their kibble topping. A several hour project every 10 days to 2 weeks.
    Evening   End to what turned out to be a very long day. I made too much rice so cooked up more chicken. Always hate to waste. Should be good for at least 2 weeks worth now. Then as things were settling down in the kitchen, Jason got his foot hung in the gate between this side and Bears side. It was a disaster. He is hung, paw wedged, elevated and he's turned backwards, screaming in pain. The other dogs decided to attack. I finally got him turned around. He was just in a panic and the other dogs were all over him.   Finally Loren got the others in the house and I was able to calm Jason. Loren had to disassemble the gate to get him free. Every single move was just excruciating for the poor guy but once the others were away, he was very calm and trusting. He was very good to let us get him free. Rushed him to the vet. Just so glad it was during regular business hours. Nothing broken just cut and bruised. His eye had a superficial wound, probably one of the others taking advantage. He's bandaged up and I'm so proud that so far he has not tried to chew it off. I even put a freezer bag rubber banded on so he would not get the bandage dirty in all the mud. He was really good to leave it on. It's bed time, so I took it off and closed him in the garage with a filled Kong and a new stuffed toy and a Nylabone. Hope he will stay occupied enough that he will leave the bandage alone. I even put a night light out there. I'll go out about midnight and bag his foot again and let him potty. I know he can't hold it for 10 hours, especially since he hasn't went after dinner. You never know what excitement is in store! UGH!

2/09/10: Woke up to the unexpected. I heard paws running through the house and all kinds of happy play commotion. Thought that strange, as they are usually calm in the mornings. With the exception, of course, of Sahara who will not stop barking until I get up. I tried to ignore it, but when I opened my eyes, there stood Jason ready to leap on the bed! The bolts on the gate latch had loosened and it only took a minimal amount of pressure for it to slip and the gate to come open. He was so proud of himself!! I was greeted with him jumping on my half naked body and putting a big scratch on my belly, but he was just excited. He has been so much calmer the past few weeks and has not jumped on me at all. His enthusiasm was just too great this morning.

2/08/10: Looks like the Poodle/lab has someone taking him. Someone contacted by Shelley (DogsOnly) so I know he will be in good hands. Sure hope 'Satchel' will get lucky. This is a life or death situation. He chases deer and accused of killing the neighbors colt so not going to be easy. Otherwise, he's a great dog. Just was let to be out of control, but young enough that the behavior can be curbed with the right person or situation. Maybe he just needs out of the county environment. Anyway, I've done all I can do so hope someone will step forward.
Tiya got 'firsties' in today. I feel so sorry for her. She wants to play with the others. Maybe when the weather clears (more snow last night) I'll see if her and Parker can be friends. He's the most likely. If that works, I can add Sissy. Not going to happen with Zelda for sure.

2/07/10: Busy day. A lot of laundry. Charlie has his days and seemed to get confused a lot where the door was, so peed on the blankets that I cover the rugs with. In between loads, I worked on this site. Been trying for several weeks to get my dogs pages updated. Have 1 to go and one to finish. What I did took several hours. I also sorted about a thousand emails that need posted. If I don't update the adopted dogs pages when I receive the email and photos, it just gets tossed in a folder. I will start on those next. I so appreciate people letting me know that the dogs are still doing great. I always reply, just don't always get the updates posted. Tomorrow will not be a 'web' day, but a dog day. They all got their turn, just not enough attention.
I also listed 2 dogs that urgently need homes. Got notices out to rescues to pass on. The Anatolian Shepherd will be a challenge. I can't take him, but could temp foster if someone commits. The lab/poodle will be easy.

2/06/10: Picked up expensive dog food as had 2 - 25% off coupons per bag. Planned to get a different one, but even with discount, it would have been over $3 a pound! As it was, what I got was a little over $2 with tax. Grain free and salmon, so should help with the 3 dogs who suffer from yeast infections. They do get salmon oil in their food anyway. Sissy is hardly eating since her teeth cleaning and ear flush. Not that she couldn't get by for several days without starving. She needs to lose 15- 20 pounds. Oh well. Worth a try. Will wean them over slowly. A 30 pound bag will probably be gone before they are totally on it anyway. On average, I go through 120 pounds of dog food a week. Then we got some lunch at Chili's. Hate spending so much to go there but so few places that have digestible food in this town. Then to Wal-Mart for my prescription. Just last week Loren got one filled for me. Today they said the insurance card on file was not valid or active or something. Anyway, Loren is on his way back with the same card that I was issued in August. I'm sure it's all screwed up because I'm going on Medicare in 3 months and the insurance co. jumped the gun. I told him if it's not covered, to skip it. I'll just order the DE which is suppose to do the same thing naturally. Going to order it anyway.
Jason was so good inside today. He has been amazing. He is maturing every day. We worked on commands. I've let it slide lately, but he was quick to remember 'sit' and ' lay down'. Of course, when he lays down, he rolls over for a belly rub, but hey, down is down and it works for me. I'm really starting to like him. He has not jumped on me in weeks. He has not fence fought since Irene left. Different pack, different dynamics. No reasoning. They are on Bears side this afternoon. Bear is over here somewhere. Not in sight. Could be out checking these dogs smells in the yard or asleep in the living room. He was so funny when he came in. There was a treat on the counter. He put his paws up there and just looked as us, waiting for the 'ok' that he could have it. Once he got down, Loren gave it to him. I swear Bear continues to grow taller and longer. On his hind feet, he can reach the top of the door with his paws. That's 6'8". With the exception of Goofy, everyone else looks so small. Goofy never gets up on his hind legs. I think he is a bit taller at the shoulders, but not a long legged or long bodied. They are definitely both very big dogs, just not heavy. Goofy hangs over the crib mattress. He can't fit all on him on it. Parker can curl up so small on one, sometimes when I walk by I have to look twice to see who it is. I don't know if it is because he is skinner of just more flexible, but he sure can make his 98 pounds look small. He curls in a ball like a cat. I just love him. He is so good, so affectionate and so unassuming.

2/05/10: Busy day. Mopped the house and 4 loads of laundry. Charlie got a bath. I went back to the doctor. We tried the new restaurant and it was good!
      Charlie will have to be bathed once a week with medicated soap until the yeast infection on his skin is cleared up. Can't believer it, but he had fleas, too. Guess we are going to sprinkle DE (Diatomaceous Earth) on the carpet in the spare room as that is the only place fleas could be with this weather.    I sure don't see them and he just had a bath a few weeks ago. Guess I'm going to start to brush it onto the dogs too. I know it sure worked on the front lawn this past summer. No chiggers, gnats, ants, etc. Considering using it in their food. Reading more and more about it and cheaper them worming. Also good for people. Anyway, if you've never heard of it, here's a link to one site.   It's also said to help several of the problems I am experiencing. Maybe I will start trying it for me. Do a little more research before I do any ingesting. It's either that or a battery of unpleasant tests and doctor bills scheduled for next month. I'm really for natural cures, not a bunch of prescription drugs that the warning on side effects is much worse then what you got. "It should cure your headache, but kill you in the process". You've seen the commercials. Scary.
    Got a call about an ASD/Pyr mix needing a home. If NASRN will commit, I'll temporarily foster. He'd have to stay in the big kennel alone. I'm sure I would not be lucky enough for Tiya to like him. Anyway, without their commitment, they will just have to look elsewhere. Can't take another long term dog until Tiya finds a home or spring arrives.   The mix is what Bear is and the ASD part is what Sissy is. ASD's are a bit much for me.
     Rained and light snow pretty much all day. I have no where to put this bunch to bring Tiya up when the weather is wet. I feel so bad for her. It just breaks my heart. I so wish someone would want her that is right for her. I've added a few new pix to her page. Took some of Chipi too, and telling them apart is hard, but Chipi's nose has pink on it. Tiya's is jet black.

2/04/10: Still struggling with the new email program. Everything goes into my inbox. In outlook express, I had set up mail boxes and everything was pre-sorted for me. Emails from my kids went in one box, from Loren in another, adopters in another and rescue contacts in another. Anything left over was usually junk. Without the filters, it really slows things down. Loren did manage to fix some things but he hardly ever uses email so never bothered with this kind of stuff. Also had problems with my hyperlinks on my site. I think he got the kinks out of that. The more time something takes me on the computer, the less time for the dogs.
     Another urgent email last night. This one from a previous adopter about another dog she had taken in. I sent out word and the response has been great. I was so touched by the outpouring, I got tears. Guess that's why I like dog people. Their heart is always in the right place.
     A light snow again this morning. Bear and friends are on this side. Looked over to Bears room and all the other 5 are asleep. Zelda and Parker curled in crates. The others spread out on the floor. I picked up Bear's and Chipi's beds but guess I can probably trust Jason enough now that I could have left them on the floor. Next time. Anyway, definitely not walking weather. It is really cold and was last night also. Deck is really icy slick. Just enough moisture last night to freeze.   Wish I had gotten fire wood in yesterday as it wasn't as cold as today, just covered in snow.
     Sissy was back on the bed most of the night. Maybe she was just pouting at me for the vet visit. Guess I'm forgiven.   Sahara and Zelda are sure getting growly, both at each other and at whom ever goes by them. Started with Zelda months ago. Had everything checked. Blood work, etc and all was normal. At least they are only growls and nothing more. It does however intimidate Sissy, Parker and Goofy. Sahara just growls back. Sweetness is so people driven, she just races past or cowers and crawls. Charlie is deaf so he hasn't a clue.
     It is so quiet! Why do LGD's sleep all day and bark all night? I could understand if we were young and planning to have children. It would be a 'baby capability' test.   But explaining to Bear that we are old and have no desire to be awake all night is futile. I do have to admit, it's not ALL night, just 20 to 30 minute sequences, with 3 to 5 minute breaks in between. Having the 'easy listening' music on has helped. I concentrate on putting the words in my head to the music I recognize. The volume does not drown out the barking (because I keep it low), but the mind is diverted from the bark enough to actually get more sleep then I've ever experienced. Do you ever just want to go over and bark in your dogs ear when they have kept you up all night and are now sleeping like a drunk and snoring even louder? I don't have the heart!

2/03/10: Morning is gone and I've been fighting with the web site changes since 9 a.m. Updating the 'store' page and fixing the links on the home page. Dog petting in between. Bear and friends are on this side and have been all morning. Not a single bark. I've even got up several times to be sure the fence was not down and the rest of the dogs are still here. Sun is bright and snow is melting. I think they are really enjoying being out. If they weren't, they would sure be letting me know.
     Sissy survived her nail trim, ear flush and teeth cleaning. She has a yeast infection in the ear, same as Charlie. Oral meds as there is no way to touch Sissy's ears without getting bit. She was weird last night. Only stayed on the bed half the night. She wasn't mad at me. Actually looked like she felt better. She got down and curled on the floor. Sweetness enjoyed the extra space and aloneness with me.
     Been afraid to eat. Have another Dr. appt Friday. I dread it. I don't really want to know what it might be, I just want it fixed!
Afternoon: More Urgent emails. This time a Pyr and a Pyr/lab mix and a lab. I asked Loren if I could offer on the Pyr. He didn't say 'no', just let me know he was not for it. I let it go. A few hours later he told me to call! One of those sad situations where the dogs were abandoned, a neighbor gal has been feeding and watering them for a month, and if AC takes them, they will kill them. She's frantic. Notice also went out to a few other groups so I said just put me at the bottom of the list as a last resort. Don't even know if it's a male or female. If it were a male, Tiya might (who am I kidding) get along with him.   And a female, Jason would have a night time friend. What ever happens, happens. Having only 11 dogs is nice though!! I do have a new dog helper coming 2 afternoons a week. so will be covered with help 4 days a week. Annie's mom. She does not want to commit to another dogs yet, but wants to help. I'm delighted. The dogs will be too.

2/02/10: Another day with URGENT emails. This time it is a bunch of dogs in Brighton, TN. near Memphis. list is not current on petfinder but you could call the shelter. Emailing would be too late for this bunch. A bunch died the other day. More are scheduled for today or tomorrow. I want to call and ask "Are any Pyrenees or big white fluffy dogs or German Shepherds or Saint Bernards?" Enough fall into my lap without asking. But it just tears me up thinking there could be another Irene or Ashlee or Keeton or Goofy or Misha, etc, etc, etc, that could make someone so happy and in turn make the dog so happy. It just hurts whether I know or don't know. Not knowing does however fade with time. Knowing and not stepping forward (or being unable to) haunts me the rest of my life. Not being able to save Gretel in Rockford, IL. will burden my heart forever.
Two of the only 3 dogs at this AC (with room for 10 dogs) are also at an end having only been available for adoption yesterday. And I know for fact the employees are not using the shoe disinfectant when going in the kennel. They have parvo AGAIN! We are not sure what happened to 2 other dogs from last week that were only on the site for a week. They may have gotten claimed or been the ones that brought in the parvo. We just don't know and it's certain no one is going to share their stupidity with us. Maybe the county should just private contract it to a rescue group. Make more sense both from a humane and a financial standpoint. I know no matter how many are saved today, as long as puppy mills and back yard breeders are allowed to profit and flourish, there will never be enough people to save them all tomorrow.
I mentioned this before but it was a long time ago, so worth mentioning again. Several years ago we stopped by a little local dog show. A woman was showing her Lab. She was bragging about having rescued it from the local humane society. I asked how she was able to register a stray. She had 'friends'. A "breeder" will claim a litter of say 10 when there are really only 6. They get the AKC papers for 10 puppies. When a stray or litter of questionable parentage is brought to their attention, the 'extra' papers that best fit the age and breed are available for sale either with the mutt or to the owner of the mutt. So a stray pup can be scooped up for a $25 to $50 adoption fee from the local AC or HS and sold as a purebred with 'papers' for several hundred dollars. It's the easiest money available to a scam artist. No way to prove it and no one really cares since "spay' is normally part of the deal. So congratulations on your new 'purebred' puppy that you got for the bargain price of only $500! Save a life. Don't support a puppy mill (one who breeds multiple breeds without concern for health or parentage) or back yard breeder (BYB) (I wanted to have my kids experience birth so I didn't spay my dog. The pups were so cute and we gave them all away at Wal-Mart, so we did it again) or scammer. (This in no way reflects on honest, legitimate, "single breed for the betterment of that breed" breeders.)

2/01/10: More shoveling snow. The areas we did yesterday were totally melted. Wish we had done more yesterday as today was not as sunny. Did get half the back deck done last night and more done on it today. Had to because the gate between the 2 yards was blocked with ice and it's how I switch dogs around without conflict.
    Took Sissy and Charlie into the vet this morning. Both have ear problems. Both have for some time. Didn't know Charlie did as never shakes his head or scratches them. He's on antibiotics for a yeast infection now. He stinks so bad it literally makes me nauseous. She said the yeast infection is both in his ears and in his skin! Never heard that before. Anyway, cleaning his ears is not easy as he has a little ear canal since he's a little dog. Hopefully he will shake most of the gunk out as can't get in there to it. Not sure on Sissy. She goes in tomorrow morning to have hers flushed. She will bite if I mess with her ears or her nails so I've not been as diligent with her as I am with the others. Anyway, while she's under, they'll do her teeth and nails too. I just hope they can prescribe a pill, because putting anything in her ears will require a muzzle and several very strong men to hold her down. She's my only 'intentional' biter, thank God. Guess getting old and cantankerous just like her mommy:-)
    Sweetness and Jason got into it after dinner. I am not sure who started it. Sweetness has really been a pain and more so every day. Wonder if dogs feel a sense of not 'fitting in' like people can. One black lab in a family of white livestock guardians and a white cockapoo. Of course it's been that way here for the three and a half years she's been here. And it's not like she gets less attention from us. She sleeps beside me on the bed, head (or butt) on my pillow (or my chest). Anyway, before I could get outside to break it up, it ended. I had to put Jason back in his garage kennel. I felt really bad as it may not have been his fault. Actually, probably not. He has been being so good inside all day.
     Had Tiya up in the family room with me for several hours while the others were in the house. I tried to move them, but was not successful, so we settled for just me and her and the TV. I watched 2 recorded movies and petted her almost the entire time. She wanted to greet the others, but she burned those bridges a long time ago and I'm not sure who would forgive her. I'd like to try her with Parker but she will get through the fence to the other yard and then it could be a free-for-all. I just feel so sorry for her. She is so loving and tries so hard but explodes. I know there is a human diagnosis for it, but can't think of the name. At least it's only with other dogs. Not one iota of human aggression. She even lets me do her ears and nails :-)

1/31/10: Evening: And the dogs: Irene is off to her new home. Wonderful people and their Saint Bernard puppy is adorable. Irene will need to have some 'time out's' to get the idea she needs to share their people, but she will settle in. The pup is already as big if not bigger then her, so she won't get away with intimidation for too long. Jason is totally lost without his friend. I'm not sure how I'm going to handle it. Still not ready to let him have run of the house at night. He's fine when I keep an eye on him. I expected an application on him, but my mail is still screwed up so just not sure if it's setting on the server somewhere or just didn't get submitted. Loren did get my address book back. Just wish Jason and Tiya had not waged all out war. There will never be a truce. Tomorrow Bear and Chipi will have our attention in the morning and Tiya most of the afternoon.
Shoveled both the front walk and the back deck. Also mopped after Irene left. Way overdue and since they were all outside, figured it was a good time. Ache all over. Loren will most likely get the tractor out tomorrow and scrape the driveway. Not going to melt for awhile if we don't. Will just freeze and make for a slick ride. Well, the evening serenade has begun. Sun is going down and so am I.

1/31/10: 5:00 a.m. Totally un-dog. There is nothing more unsettling then a computer crash. To again be reminded that we, as a society have become so dependent on technology really sucks. A convenience, that when broke, makes us want to bang our head against a wall and cry. The time spent trying to recover data, contacts, photos... What happened to paper and real address books and real photos? What happened to real mail, the kind you actually sat down and wrote with pen or pencil? The kind of letters your family would cherish. What happened to photographs you put in an album and set out on the coffee table, or frame and hang on the wall. Now we save them in "folders" and share them with the world, but rarely appreciate them in our homes. They are tucked away neatly in our computers or on disc. A disc that holds hundreds, maybe thousands of our memories. A disc that can become 'corrupt'. A computer that can 'crash'. Reminders of our life gone forever, just like in a fire. I wish I could turn back the calendar to 1955. The years of innocence and hard work. Hard work that made you feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. When you actually had to learn to add and subtract in your head, and anything less then a B on your report card was devastating. I just would not want to be 10 again! I remember living on a farm in a little company provided house. It had no hot water, so I would boil water on the gas stove in big buckets, pour it into the bath tub and heat the next to boiling. By the time the next one boiled, the first would have cooled down. By the third or fourth, there was enough water to take a bath and enough warmth to be comfortable. Baby went first, then me. Then the process would start all over for my then husband when he came in from the field. Then more boiling for the supper dishes. And of course, I was boiling water all day to do laundry. No such thing as disposable diapers. If I ran out, it was use the hand towels until the diapers dried outside on the line or over the stove, depending on the time of year. The washer pump didn't work either so the drain hose had to be dropped to let the water drain. Then the rinse water went in. The agitator did work! Well, sometimes. The 'wringer' was on a hand crank. Times were hard, but I survived. They were easy compared to when my grandma grew up. She thought we had it made. All the 'modern' conveniences. We even had a TV and electricity and indoor plumbing and a job.
Has society built a house of cards? When you got thrown from a horse, you usually got up, brushed yourself off and got back on. If you get thrown from a car, you are lucky to survive. If we all worked hard, you were tired and would fall asleep and sleep through the night. If we respected the fact we have a job, it might still be there... but somewhere complacency and apathy set in. Easy is never fulfilling. Easy does not build character. Easy does not nurture longevity. I'll be shoveling snow today, the old fashion way. And when every muscle in my body hurts, it will just be a reminder, I spend too much time using technology.

1/30/10: Computer crashed last night. Loren is getting it up and running but had to change operating systems to windows 7. The email systems are not compatible with XP and outlook express. He is not sure if he can find all my mail files to upload into the new system.   I'm on the laptop with Vista and it is not easy for me so this will be short. Had about a foot of snow. I measured yesterday and it was 8" and it just keeps coming down. Hard to get gates open and useless trying to clean. Dogs are loving it. Goofy does not want to come in. Irene does not want to go out. They are all showing their silly side and acting like puppies.
    Afternoon: Ah! My computer is up and running. Now to get use to Windows 7. UGH. I do not like change! It will still take time to get everything set the way I like it. The email got mostly restored although about half the recent messages are missing and half my 'application' file. The program is so different and I can't figure out how to save attached photos all at once. Saving one at a time is frustrating. And I hate that little spinning thing like on Vista. I liked the hour glass. Just one more stress ulcer.
    Bear and Chipi were in until noon. Ran them out at lunch and the others in when we were finished eating. Bear always look so sad, but he would terrorize the boys and Zelda. Irene did not make a good impression on him either, and he's not one to forgive. So things just stay as they are, daily dog shuffle. With this 10" of snow we got yesterday and last night, there was no way to let Tiya have her turn up here. I feel so bad. I did have someone enquire about her, but they don't have a fence and she would be tethered when outside. Not going to happen. Anyway, the dogs are still loving the snow. Sun has been out almost all day but nothing is melting. I had to melt ice off Goofy's feet. Don't know what it is about his coat that just collects the ice. He has such a Komondor coat and it is trying to cord. He is going to have to be brushed every few days as it gets longer. What a combination: Komondor, Irish Wolfhound and Pyrenees. When it comes to personality and temperament, he is the greatest. When it comes to maintenance, he is a challenge.
    Irene's adopters were unable to come today because of the snow. No hurry on this end. She is such a jewel. Aside from being a follower and having to learn "because they do it does not make it acceptable", she is totally easy. I just know they are going to fall in love with her.

1/29/10: Snow. Lots and lots of snow. The dogs have had a great time. I had them closed in during the night so when I let them out after breakfast they were really wired. I wish I had gotten the camera out before I turned them loose. Knew if I went back in and got it, they'd all congregate around me and I'd not catch the fun. Of course the way the snow has continued to fall, the lens would have gotten crusted over in no time. Jason and Irene really played hard. He is going to miss her. He is passing quickly through stages and becoming mature quickly. Not being bossy and getting very trustworthy in the house. He is so ready for a home too. They were all in and out repeatedly. Everyone likes being dried off except Goofy. Pick up the towel and he is gone. Don't know what the deal is. He got really weird during the last snow a few weeks ago, or when ever it was. He just stands on the deck and lets it encrust him like a snowman. It's a powdery snow but it freezes to the dogs. It's a steady sheet of white coming down. I'm so glad I have inside space for everyone. The big kennel with the carport cover is all snow too. It is blowing and even under the shelter, it is solid white. I know they are all delighted with this weather, but I'm such a worrier. I'm afraid when they 'melt' that the moisture will penetrate the undercoat and they will get cold against their skin the next trip outside. I've went through half the towels in the cabinet and I have a bunch. Sure wish we had brought in firewood. Just didn't think of it. It's pretty well covered and frozen now. As long as we don't have some idiot slide off the road and knock out our power, we will be fine. Looks more like Idaho then Arkansas outside.

1/28/10: Feeling better. Still a little off balance but I am done with bed! Watched almost all the movies I had recorded. I'm movies out, too.
     Have a great adopter for Irene. When I was talking to her on the phone yesterday, Irene was right by the bed. I was telling the lady that Irene knows 'leave it' and 'sit'. As soon as I said 'sit', even though I was not talking to Irene, she sat! It was funny that it was so spontaneous. They will come and bring their Saint puppy. Hopefully all will go well between the two dogs.   Hope I will be so lucky with Tiya and Jason. I can wait till the right people come along.
    Doing a full scale dog shuffling today since Tiya has been neglected for the past few days. Bear and Chipi have been in here with Sis and Sweetness since breakfast. I'll switch at 11:00 and bring Tiya up until 1:00. Go to lunch and then switch everybody back.   I need out of the house even though it's freezing outside.
     Linda called last night to tell me their was an blurp in the newspaper about AC and the board was going to revise the handbook. I know Rob, my vet, will be taking into consideration our conversation. I suspect that is why this is coming about. I am so thankful. He is just such a great person and the community is very lucky to have him. Maybe now my stomach will settle down, too.
    I swear Bear is still growing. He's 5 so know he isn't. I miss seeing Sonny, his brother. Time just goes by so fast. Aside from Charlie at 13, Sissy is the oldest. She will be 9 in April. With a life expectancy of 10 to 12, she's a senior. All the rest fall into the 5 year range except Sahara, and I just don't know on her. Probably 4. In 5 years it will be the Geriatric Center, dogs and humans alike. Five years from now seems like an eternity, but time passes faster the older one gets. I'll be 65 in a few months, yet I could critique my life to read in less then an hour. Weird.

1/27/10: Now that I have a diagnosis, I did some googling. I'm not at all encouraged by the doctors 'cure'. Seems the past few years have proven it useless. Guess I'll call back today and have him call me. I'm not up to sitting in a waiting room for an hour when I can do just as well with a phone call.
To solve the AC problem, looks like I am going to have to call a friend to get me to the judge. Long story and I don't like to name names here when it is in a negative context, but both Cathy and I have hit a brick wall. Also, several more dogs are 'missing' from the list. They could have been claimed, but it was too soon for them to be adopted and way too soon for them to be euthanized. I just get this really bad feeling. Once you start a cover-up, it just keeps growing. Got an email from a great rescue person in Beebe that is also running into new problems and brick walls. She is an amazing person, getting hundreds of dogs into rescue safety over the past 3 years. All of a sudden the door seems to be slammed in her face. Do AC's just want to start killing animals rather then letting us find them homes? Know of any others? email. Already suspect West Plains is since the old guy retired. The new (over a year now) person has never listed a dog on the site or petfinder. I've gotten several great dogs from there, so makes me sick I have no way of knowing what has been picked up.
Too dizzy to stay up.

1/26/10: Went to the doctor. Guess it was a good decision. I'm not good with medical things, but anyway, the balance is an inner ear thing. I'm wondering now if it could possibly have had something to do with the tooth filling I just had re-done and they had to numb me 3 times!! It's on the same side. The other issues have to do with both an ulcer and some other stomach thing. The stomach issue is what has been causing the severe back aches. I knew when I'd eat, the back pain was less so I eat for that reason. Not because I'm hungry. Now if I can get that under control, maybe I actually can loose some weight without the back pain that has always accompanied it. Loren's off getting the prescriptions and the OTC stuff. The Benadryl is going to knock me out. It always does so I rarely take it. Guess I'll get caught up on sleep! I feel so bad for Jason and Irene as Loren don't want to mess with them. They won't get in the house much with me not functioning to full capacity. No walks today. Just feel bad for all these guys. Darn! I do not handle sick!

1/25/10: was fine until I got up. I do not need this sick today. too much to do. not dizzy, just brain does not seem to be communicating with my legs. also nauseous. maybe just stress. Loren checked my blood sugar. it's fine. he fed. Zelda didn't eat again. wind is cold. went by the door to call parker. he wants to be on the hill, but for now everybody is just going to have to hang out with me. I hope I'm not getting one of those flues. I rarely get sick. don't really want to go back to bed, but may not have a choice. Noon: Feeling better physically. Emotionally shot. Missed a call back from the judge. Waiting on one from Rob, but it will probably be after 5. Talked to another rescue and AC reneged on a promise. I know I am going to get the bureaucratic run around. No one in government entities ever admits to making a mistake or lying to cover it up. I do have the flyer Cindy marked with all the "adopted." Loren picked it up this morning. I just wish I had more inside info, but it's not something anyone will get from public records.
Jason, Irene and the rest have been in all morning. Under Irene's eye it is swollen. She has this habit of growling and trying to play big shot when she isn't. She ends up on the bottom crying for help. Not sure which altercation caused it. So there's $$ for antibiotics for 7 days. I used my stash on Annie so had to get some more. It's Bear and Chipi's turn in the house now. They are eating up the attention. About 3 I will shuffle dogs again and bring Tiya up and she will get an hour and a half of special time. With her it's constant petting, sitting on the floor type attention since I can't trust her with any of the others. She just needs a home so bad. I feel so sorry for her. A few minutes at meal time twice a day and an hour and a half with us is just way not enough time. She is so affectionate to people and such a sweet girl. She is so totally appreciative of even the dab of attention she gets. Wish I had a magic wand or 3 wishes. I'd have her get along with the others. At least Bear gets along with 4 others.
Evening: Got the call from Rob. Things went well. He definitely wants me to show the judge the flyer Cindy wrote "Adopted" on the euthanized dogs. We have the same outlook on things. Keeping a positive image with honesty and hard work. I feel positive. Maybe I will sleep better tonight. Try the judge again tomorrow.

1/23/10: midnight: Well, I'm pissed again. We don't take the newspaper and haven't for a year. In my efforts to get something done about the AC situation, I was told about an article in the paper from some months ago. Well, I did a search and found it. Someone else got credit for grooming, posting, finding a home and transporting Tanner! I don't care about getting credit for what I do, but I do care when someone else gets it that had nothing to do with it. I don't think it was the 'namees' fault. Reporters are notorious for screwing things up. I am pretty sure where the blame lies. Such an appropriate word.. lies. And I don't look anything like the namee. Hopefully I'll get some sleep now that I've aired my frustration. Can morning be any more unsettling then yesterday and today? 4:30 pm Just found out that Cindy (AC) wrote "ADOPTED" on the flyer I put up last week on the 2 dogs that were euthanized. The third dog never even got posted. Was not there long enough as came in later in the day after I had printed them up. I had not put up the new flyers where I had put "EUTHANIZED" Well, This is just not going to be. I'm going to be at All Creatures at 8:00 am Monday and talk to Rob. He is on the advisory board. He was the instrumental person in getting it built. I'm sure even though his office euthanized the dogs, he had no idea they had only been available for 2 days. This just keeps snowballing. When you start a cover-up, it just grows and grows and you end up burying yourself. AC is digging really fast.

1/22/10: Got an email last night that really upset me. One of the AC dogs did have a rescue follow through, however 3 additional dogs are 'missing' from the list. I was not called as promised. One, the puppy, may have been adopted. I hope so!!! These 3 were just there 2 days past their hold time, which means they were only available for adoption for 2 days. I barely got the flyer up and they were not considered 'urgent' when I put them up. I had been told Wednesday that the one of the original 2 would not be put down since they wouldn't call the vet out for one dog. (other being rescued). So what; they go add to the list so they don't have to keep that dog?? This is out of control. Cathy and I are livid. I'll be trying to find out what the hell is going on. I'm just glad it's Friday today and not Saturday as I'd not learn anything over the weekend. I don't know who is top official on these matters, but as many times as I have told Cindy to call me first, she did not, and has not. Cathy has worked so hard and been so successful in getting them all placed. This is a total slap in the face to a very dedicated volunteer.   I know we can't save them all, but we should be allowed the opportunity to try for those we can. Look at those faces on the home page! Even if you're not a hound fan, they were certainly beautiful, adoptable dogs.
     I had such a restless sleep over this. The dogs were even quiet until a few minutes ago. There is another Pyr in Fayetteville AC. Don't know if it is in danger. Sometimes there is no compromise in me. If I do not follow my heart, I can't live with myself. I'm in a catch 22 situation. Is losing who I am worth it? It's now 5 am. They noticed I was missing and are slowly wandering in to check on me. Going back to bed and snuggle with Sissy and Sweetness while hanging over the edge to pet Sahara who is carefully avoiding stepping on Charlie. It's the morning ritual and my fur kids do need consistency.
   10:30 am: Well, I have done some real bitching over those AC dogs. I chewed out both Cindy and the jerk who is her boss who doesn't know jack who's a 'good ol' boy' whose wife also works for the county and is an ass.   Together with Cathy, we will organize a protest and take it to the county judge. This is just so wrong!! I printed up new flyers and am headed out to post them as soon as I get a hold of the judge. Don't want to burn a bridge until I have to. Also my vet is still on the board of directors.
    7 pm: busy day. Monday will get busier. Unable to make all the contacts I need to make, but did get important people on board.   I calmed down, not that I'm any less mad, just in control.   Monday will be really busy as I will go to the county offices for research. I plan to do this right. All the facts organized, everything in writing and all possible questions thought out and ready to answer. Anyway it gets even more interesting. Cathy pulled a Beagle going into rescue, left it at the vet for HW test, called for results and the dog is gone!! AC picked it up. She had already paid the vet to board it for the night. A foster home was ready for tomorrow. Transport was being arranged and there had been a slim possibility of it heading north to rescue Monday. Slim, but still possible. But no dog. They supposedly euthanize to make room and then take a dog back that isn't even theirs anymore? DUH!   This whole thing has become so bizarre.

1/21/10: 12:40 a.m. It's going to be a long night. Parker is terrified of the lightening. Not hearing too much thunder, but the sky was really flashing and it's raining pretty good. This 'adventure' started about an hour ago. Parker began pacing so I got up with him. I put his mattress right beside my bed. He laid down and then up and down. Next thing I knew he was on the bed standing on my boob! Ladies, think mammogram X 10. It's already starting to turn a little blue. Anyway, he proceeded to step over me and then back again. He laid down several times forcing me to push Sweetness over a bit. Then he'd change sides and I'd have to move back the other way. After about 20 minutes and soaked pillows (he drools like a Saint), he jumped down. I heard the doggie door one way but not the other. After a few minutes, I got up, thinking he had run off in the night in fear. The gate to the upper property was open, so I'm out there in the pouring rain, flash light in hand looking and calling him. Panic is setting in and then he appears...in the kitchen...completely dry. I think he was hiding in the bathroom which never occurred to me to look before getting soaked. Anyway, I have moved the mattresses into the bedroom as Zelda and Sahara are upset about the storm also. Everyone wants mommy to comfort them. The thunder subsided as did the lightening, but not the rain. They have all settled down. I'll be going back to bed as soon as the Advil takes effect and the headache goes away and the boob ache lessens. I think I'm going to keep Parker. After all we really bonded tonight :-)
3 p.m. : Went to Springfield to pick up some stuff we can't get here and had lunch. Just got back. Jason and Irene were overjoyed to get in the house. Something was splattered and dried in a large area on the kitchen floor. Could have been one of them shaking off mud earlier, but it really didn't look like that. I'm going to pretend it was! My boob still hurts. It has a nasty claw gouge along with a paw size imprint. But I love him anyway. I just hope he does not make a habit of getting on the bed. Three hundred pounds of dogs will just be more then I can handle and get any rest at all.
I wish Loren would let Charlie "go". I won't suggest it as he is the last thing left of his first wife. He is deaf, almost completely blind and so full of warts and sores that within hours of a bath, he stinks again. Literally a whole room will become unbearable with him in it. I'm up and down with him all night too. He can't find the door to go out and potty so I am either up leading him out and leading him back in 3 or 4 times a night or cleaning up after him. I keep a row of night lights and the deck light on so he can head for the light, but he still gets confused. I missed hearing him once last night and he was lost outside the door, soaking wet. I feel so bad but I just can't be awake 24/7 to take care of him. I did close the doggie door after my Parker incident, but within a few minutes of going back to bed, Goofy needed out and he let me know with the strangest noise. I didn't even recognize it was coming from a dog! Anyway, he sure took off on the run. It must have been urgent. Well, Irene is insisting on attention and Jason is asleep. They are so good inside, but not ready to trust Jason at night.

1/20/10: Ivermectin day. I forgot this morning, so need to stick it on the counter so I don't forget tonight. Cleaning day, too. I never finished a few days ago or was it last week? Not that it matters as it is always 'start from scratch' every day no matter how many in between. Don't expect to get it all done. Just too pretty of a day to be inside. Need to be out entertaining the dogs. Irene and Jason are entertaining themselves. Switched everybody this morning. Bear and Chipi are the only ones under foot while I clean. I picked everything up on the other side, but didn't get one crate blanket high enough. Jason and Irene are laying down at opposite ends of the blanket having a tug of war..... Loren just accidentally let Charlie out and Bear attacked him... My hand hurts from pulling Bear off. He is so strong. Poor Charlie..... Anyway, crisis over. Back to Jason and Irene. They were having so much fun, I didn't have the heart to take it away. It's not like it's something they can't have, just something they should lay on, not play with. I'm not up to explaining that to them right now.
Two dogs at AC are going to die this afternoon and I have done all I can. Cathy has likewise worked really hard to find them a rescue. We can't save them all, but even losing one or two, still hurts. Just not a good time to take in any, especially not some that may not move on quickly. Hardest part is not being able to predict. I thought Jason and I thought Irene would both have numerous applications within days. If this had been 2 years ago before the economy went completely south, I would have. Well, actually I have had applications, but nothing suitable for the particular dog. Being picky is a real draw back but I do not handle less then ideal for these guys. And I do not handle it well when I make a mistake about them. Too emotional. Back to cleaning.

1/19/10: Stress level is down, finally, this evening. Nancy came over and we walked the dogs this morning. Zelda was not satisfied with one walk and when we took the second bunch out the door, she barged past and took off. Goofy almost got out, but Nancy got a hold of him. It is a wonder she didn't go sailing down the road. She is not a very big lady and in her late 70's. Hanging on to 3 dogs, total weight 300 pounds, not counting pull strength, she could have been lifted right off her feet and dragged down the road. Took awhile for Zelda to get the adventure out of her system. I was a basket case. Luckily only a few cars were on the road today. She was darting in and out of the forest for 20 minutes.
   Miracle of miracles. When we were done walking the dogs, we went to the shop to visit Tiya. I usually walk her in the afternoon as she has to be walked alone. Well, we walked in the door and she went right to Nancy. Now this is a dog terrified of strangers. Even strangers who she has seen several times. For some reason she took to Nancy. Not only did she go to her, she practically ignored me! It was quite amazing. When Nancy would stop petting, she would nuzzle into her tummy begging for more petting. Too bad Nancy has Mitsy the miniature Doxie. Tiya would love to go home with Nancy, but Mitsy would not fare well. Sure don't understand what happened, but I'm in awe.
    Went to a dog food seminar for an hour this afternoon. I was afraid they were going to tout brands, but they didn't. Lectured pretty much same as I tell everyone: read the ingredient label, stay away from wheat, corn, soy, gluten and all by-products. I did learn a few things (No form of potato) and better understanding of protein and fat numbers. They gave away lottery tickets for correct answers to various questions. I was the first to get one. I had to come home and read on the internet what to do with it. I didn't win anything. We did all get as 25% off coupon for a bag of dog food. Any brand. I may try some of an expensive brand that is grain free. With the coupon, it would be reasonable. Probably mix it in with either Parker or Zelda's food. They have trouble gaining weight.
     Jason and Irene were sure happy to get in this evening. It was past feeding time when we got home, so they only got in for an hour. Too hard to put them out in the garage kennel in the dark. I felt really bad. They are both so good in the house and Jason is not getting into any trouble lately. I just can't trust to let him stay in when I'm not watching. Irene could stay in as I trust her completely, but if I change the routine, I'm sure Jason will digress.
A little paranoia upon returning. I found a bag of dog food and a collar on the porch. A brief note from Carol, mom to Spirit aka Shadow. Just said check my phone messages. First thing that came to mind "Shadow got killed". Thank God, she is fine. Just got a new collar and returning the one I gave her as got too small. The food was Diamond that I feed and she buys different. It was some given to her when her house burned down back in the fall. Anyway, quite a relief because I was in a terrible state before I listened to the messages.
    Dog time tomorrow. They didn't get adequate attention today. 30% chance of rain may mess up my rotation process, but will just have to see.

1/18/10: Another long 4 hour sleep. Boy, 2 in a row! Dentist this morning. Had x-rays back in Oct. when they were cleaned, but this tooth is so sensitive. Maybe they need to take a closer look. At least they are still all mine!
     Looks like I may be fostering the Beagle from AC for a rescue in ME. They will take him but want a HW test. Once I know they will commit irregardless of the result, then I'll hold him here for a month. Looks like I'll probably be paying for the HW test unless the rescue will. I have mixed feelings on stuff like this. Yes, I want to know so I can take proper care of a dog, but I've not made it a condition of rescue. But that's just me. He's a cute fella. I'm still in debate on what I believe to be a Bearded Collie mix. I'm just not familiar with the breed so could be totally wrong. Anyway, she is out at that 'rescue' that needs a rescue. She tried so hard to impress me and she did a good job. She'd run up the fence and do a back flip! I don't want to see that spirit dampened by being in that 10 x 10 24/7.   My big concern is another freeze, but she has no real shelter where she is so certainly better off here even if my 'emergency' space is not perfect for winter. Biggest problem is time. Having 2 friends help walk dogs 3 days a week is wonderful, but just not enough. I need to post a 'volunteer needed' poster up at the stores and at the Sr. center. I could take more, but I can't stand it if they don't get enough attention. Breaks my heart as they all just want to be with people.
    Can't get Annie off my mind. Always second guessing myself. Always full of "what if's.   It is the final decision one makes for a dog and can't be undone, but it still hangs on to me... forever. Geeze, I still grieve over the cocker I lost to rattler bite when I was 10 years old. Back then you just didn't drive 'off the mountain' 150 miles to the nearest vet. I suppose the local doctor took care of animals too, but I was just 10 and grandpa had to do what he had to do. I know it was probably even harder for him then for me.
    In 1966 we had to put a healthy Springer down. I was babysitting a friends toddler. I had 2 toddlers of my own. I turned my back a moment and the dog mauled the arm of the 18 month old. A nip or bite would have been one thing, but the dog went beyond. The boy recovered with just a few stitches and no lasting scars, emotional of physical, but it was once I gave no second thoughts to what had to be. Sad, most definitely. Plagued with "what if's; no. But all the rest, be it hit by a car, cancer, shot by a neighbor, old age, poisoned, lost and not found. Always wondering "What if". Always feeling such loss and so much anger at myself. What if.....

1/17/10: I keep counting heads and coming up short. I know I only have 12 but I keep looking for that 8th white head. Sometimes I'm even looking for a 9th, Ashlee. It's been a very tough month. Next year I'll try to hibernate like the bears and skip everything from Dec. 10 to Jan 31. Of course the dogs will need to hibernate too.
I slept hard for 4 straight hours. If they barked or the choir serenaded the night, I didn't hear it. Between exhaustion and keeping the 'easy listening' channel on TV, it worked. Of course I've been awake since 4 a.m. and ready for a nap, but still need to do several more laundry loads of dog blankets and mop the floors. Living room and kitchen are a muddy mess. Loren will dust. I already vacuumed. Bear, Chipi, Sweetness and Sissy are asleep throughout the house. I'll just mop around them like usual. The rest are on Bears side. I did pick up the mattresses before I let them over. Jason does think it is just for his jaw exercises. Two days ago he again removed a tarp I had put up on the fence to cut down the fence fighting. Remove the fence and no fighting... except Bear, so the fence stays up. Not sure what they are doing, but it's too quiet. Well, I spoke too soon. The choir just geared up. Everyone is howling or barking or whining or squeaking. All the instruments and all the vocal ranges are included. They must have heard a siren or something. Too far off or high pitched for my ears. Rest time is over. Back to cleaning.
Evening: I didn't get the mopping done, but some of the dogs got walked and Tiya got some attention. I have got to figure out who I can put her with. She is so lonesome and she wants to play with them but she has burned her bridges. I'm tempted to try one of the dogs at AC and if she gets along, adopt it for her. Last time I did that was about 4 years ago for a hound that could not get along with any others. Got Sweetness for him. They did great. He moved on and she stayed. It is risky!!! Chipi is in with all the others right now. Has been for several hours. If there is a fence between them it's all out war but not so much as a growl together. I may leave her in with me all night. See how it goes. If I had muzzles, I'd put Bear and Tiya together. It would be so great if they could be friends. I'm dreaming.

1/16/10: I'm on the laptop in the shop with Tiya. Someone down the road is having a 'mom & me' open house so figured I'd take advantage of their ad. A waste of time, but it gives Tiya some much needed attention. She really wants out to explore and run. Maybe I'll try to close Bear and Chipi in their room later and close the others in the house and let her have the property for awhile. She is so fast at getting through the inner fences that they will all need put up. Wish I was up to seeing if her and Bear would get along. I think he'd be willing if she didn't try to cross him. The weekend is not a good time to experiment. Need to be sure the vet is open if I do it.
The weather is great, finally. I need the sunshine, but it only peeks out occasionally. I tried Similac with Annie. She had not eaten any significant amount in about 10 days. The vet said it was ok. It didn't work. I gave her 20cc's, 2cc's at a time. She threw it up within a few minutes. This is so unfair to her.
Afternoon: Annie crossed the Rainbow Bridge. We chose to make it easy for her. It is a decision we struggled with for over a week. I just could not let her starve herself to death. The end result was inevitable, but I do feel grief hastened it. Just my opinion.

1/15/10: I realized last night that Annie is grieving to death. Dogs don't understand when their people leave. They don't know if they will be back or not.   Think about it. You see stories of a person who dies and the dog stays with the body even to the point of starvation. Or the dog was dumped and every time a red pick-up or a white car or what ever looks familiar, the dog will run down the road to catch it. And think about people. Especially a couple who has been married 50, 60 years. When one dies, the other usually follows within a year... unless the family is strong and the remaining person/parent feels wanted and needed.   Dogs grieve. I believe they grieve a loss much more then most humans. They certainly forgive us more then a human does. I rarely adopt to a person who answers "boarded" on the application question: "Where will the dog stay when you go on vacation?"   They are taking a vacation while their best friend is sent off to a scary unfamiliar little cage with strangers. More later. Time to check on Annie and start fixing dog breakfasts.
Evening:    Some days the emotional rollercoaster is just too much. I can handle old and sick dogs, dogs with 'issues' and I even survive puppies. I wish they would all 'go' on the hill so I wouldn't have to slosh in the mud poop scooping. I wish they wouldn't fence fight even though they are friends when together. A game that wears me out. I wish Bear would not bark all night but if he didn't I would probably worry that something was wrong with him. I wish the dogs would learn to wipe their feet before coming in. I wish Charlie would not 'fluff' my slippers way under the bed. I wish Sissy would not chew her dew claw. I wish Sweetness would not fart the minute she gets on the bed and lays with her butt in my face. I wish I didn't have 4 loads of laundry a day. A lot of wishes, but I survive them all because they are my dogs. They are my life. I forgive them the little inconveniences. I would become too complacent if they were perfect.
      But it is people that give me grief. People I have a hard time forgiving. People who do not put themselves in others shoes. People who use others, apologizing with hollow words. Words empty of action and full of excuses.
     So now it is time to try to relax in a hot bath and have a good cry. Annie is asleep a few feet from me. She will be waking up soon. She still has not eaten. I've coaxed her all day. I even made up fresh cooked chicken hoping to entice her with it fresh from the pot.   She is drinking water. Tomorrow I will call the vet in the morning and see if there is a nutrient I can add to water so she will get some nutrition. I have lots of dehydrated holistic dog foods I can make soupy, but she won't drink them.   She is limping badly because the pain meds have to be with food. She hasn't peed on the rugs because she's not getting the lasix into her. I'd rather be cleaning up then watch her struggle to breath. For updates on Annie, please email.

1/14/10: Annie just goes up and down. No breakfast again and barely any dinner. Not even attempting the kibble as she chokes. Just chicken and rice mix with the pills mashed up and mixed in. They are to be taken with food and if I force them down her first, she may not eat. Mixing and getting a bit is better then either nothing or on an empty stomach. She even got a walk today as Nancy came over. Annie's limping again but it is because she is not getting the pain pills in her either. I'm at a loss. She is almost non-responsive this evening. I just don't know if she will last the night. There is just that look. Don't know how to describe it, but I'm sure others have seen it in their dogs at the end. It is the same look I saw in Georgia's eyes before she died in my arms. This is just too hard. Even though she is not my dog, she was once and that makes her part of my heart forever. Guess I'll go take a bath, call it a day even though it's only 5:30. I'm sure I'll be up most of the night so maybe I can take a nap before Loren is ready to go to sleep. Then I'll take over.

1/13/10: Annie ate the chicken and rice mix really well for 2 days but did not eat this morning. That lasix is making her drink a lot, which makes her pee a lot, which she is sleeping right through, which is making me wash an extra 2 loads of blankets a day. I did find the old 'quality made' plastic table cloth my grandma had. It's a good 35 years old because she has been gone for 27 years. I covered the bedroom rug with it and it worked great containing the 2 huge pools. They just don't make stuff like they use to. Hated using it as grandma was my most special of humans, but I just could not steam clean the rug every day. I worked too hard making it. It is a tad warmer today so I let Annie go up on the hill. The others are on Bears side. Annie just didn't come when I made the switch. I hope Jason does not tear things up again. I've mended tarps this morning. Put them up 2 days ago to curb the fence fighting. Put them on Bears side as knew he would not tear them up. Never gave it a thought when I switched them yesterday. Wasn't long before I looked out and one was pretty well torn up. He'd had a great time having a tug of war with it. I'm too old for puppies!!! I'm also too old for taking care of sick dogs. I've poop scooped 6 shovels full this morning. Maybe I missed some yesterday because that was 2 more then usual since I've kept them in the yard. Given the choice, they always go on the hill, except Charlie (right on the deck in front of the door so I'm sure not to miss it) and Sweetness because she is a lab who doesn't want to go on the hill.
     Wanted to get out to the 'shelter' in Flippen yesterday to see the male Pyr but the boys were not there to 'help' with the dogs. Won't be there today either. Guess it will just have to wait. They are wanting me help them post on petfinder so do want to get pictures and get them listed. They've not had adoptions in a long time because they just don't get the word out. Had an email on Tiya, but then they vanished. Darn. Problem is there are so many sites gleaning all the listings off Petfinder, that when a dogs personality changes and I make the change on the listing, it does not carry over to the other sites that took it in the beginning. I suspect the wording was from the very beginning before she decided she wanted to be an only dog and the others had better move out. I also got an email asking if I knew of a breeder for Bernewfies. I'm assuming it's the latest 'designer dog; Bernice Mountain Dog and Newfoundland mix. Anyway, I make it a rule never to post on a site the lists breeders. OK, I know there are reputable ones, but none that are going to do these "designer dogs" for the betterment of the breed. I know, they all came from wolves, it was selective breeding that developed the dog breeds we recognize today and there is no such thing as a purebred anything, but that's a discussion for another time.
    Sun is out bright and looks like it will warm up a little more today. Going to hook the hose up to the hot water and melt off the deck before I slip and break something. The front gets sun to melt but not the back. I won't use ice melt products because afraid the dogs would get it on their paws and then lick it off. We do things the hard way around here because it's safer.
   11:52 pm: Haven't been to sleep yet. Annie decided to sleep in the kitchen on the rug that does not have plastic covering it. I watched a movie and then woke her up for a walk. Easier then steam cleaning, but then with my luck, I may end up doing both. Anyway, she really had to go. When we got back to the house and she loaded up with water! She lapped it up for a good 3 minutes. So much for a plan. It was the most beautiful sky. So reminiscent of my walks with Keeton that I got tears. The walk also woke the dogs up and they ruined the quiet of the moment with barks of intruder alert.
      It just turned midnight and the choir erupted in howls. Glad I decided to take a moment to write here, because if I had went to bed and dozed off, I'd never get to sleep. Got to get the choir on audio. There is just no way to describe or imagine what I hear. It is not pretty!

1/11/10: Annie is among the living and actually doing pretty good compared to yesterday. High doses of meds are making her comfortable and relieving most of the symptoms. Hopefully I can reach her mom today and know what she is willing to have done. With Annie's age, it's a tough call if one wants to spend hundreds on x-rays and diagnostics. I'm only willing to make those decisions that make Annie comfortable.

1/10/10: I'm sick to my stomach worried about Annie. She slept in the computer room most of the night and got a bit too warm. She went into the kitchen and finished out the night, but this morning her wheezing and coughing were way accelerated over how she had been. She sounded the same as Charlie with his bad heart, only way worse. By noon I decided I had to take her in to the vet. I have no way of reaching Sue. I don't even know what state she is in or if they flew or drove. Nothing. Anyway, Annie's temp was 106+. Wendy put her on fluids and antibiotics. She will spend the night and hopefully someone at Sues work will know how to reach her tomorrow. It may end up being a mute point. Annie may not make it. I don't want her to die alone in a strange place, but I just felt she had a better chance staying there so she could get fluids. She has not eaten anything since Thursday dinner. She never was much of an eater, but over 60 hours with nothing is way too long. The past few days I have had to retriever her from up on the hill under the tree. It was just too cold and she'd wander up there and then I'd have to go bring her back and close everyone in so she couldn't leave again. Maybe it all would have been easier for her had she just ..... This is not a good day.
I am also agonizing over turning a potential adopter down for one of the dogs. I have a hard time adopting to anyone who won't let a dog have indoor privileges. If the dog prefers outside and other dogs over people, then I'm flexible, but a dog that loves being inside and hangs out right next to me would not be happy being sent out to stay. It would think it did something wrong and was being banished. OK, maybe I'm overly concerned that a dog outside is not going to have near the amount of human contact as a dog that can come in, but it sure seems logical to me. I'm not going to sit outside in freezing weather or sweltering summer heat for several hours a day so the dog feels loved. ( I just walk old ones in a blizzard at midnight because they want to go potty and don't like the back yard). They live inside and are truly a part of the family. That's why we that rescue call them "fur kids".
End of day: A roller coaster ride. Wendy called that Annie was much worse. Was she suffering? Yes. OK, we will let her go but I don't want her to be alone so we headed to the vet. She perked up when I walked into the kennel. Wendy was surprised. Still some labored breathing but less then 10 minutes earlier when we headed that way. Will she last the night? 50/50. We brought her home. I will sleep on the floor with her if need be. I've already put a blanket on the sofa and her favorite mattress beside it. So what does she do? She goes out and potties, comes in (with coaxing, of course) and lays down on the pile of blankets in the kitchen. She is content. Her breathing has slowed to almost normal. She is not coughing. Of course, the medication is kicking in. It will be a long night, but she will not be alone. Even if she doesn't make it, I made the right decision.

1/09/10: It is suppose to warm up into the 30's and 40's in the next few days. That will make my life so much easier. Breaking ice off the water and lugging those things inside to fill is taking it's toll on my body. Keeping the gate closed so I don't have to go track down Annie in the middle of the night creates shovels full of poop to scoop and traipsing through the snow to dump it next morning.   With any luck I'll hang onto my sanity (what's left, anyway) until Annie goes home, Jason gets adopted and Spring arrives.
     Trying to catch up some of my dog's pages. I take so many pix, but I only edit and size what I plan to use that day and the rest get dumped into a 'temp' folder which has been overflowing for several years. It is time to make some more progress. In a way life was simpler before digital. We made each shot count. A roll of 24 exposures would last through a special occasion or through several weeks. Now I go out and shoot 50, 60, 100 pix in a few minutes, spend a half hour dumping what is useless and then sticking the rest in that very over used folder. I need to re-think my method. I need to determine what is really worth saving rather then what is not junk. I'm already doing the same with the video. There are seconds of good here and there in a 2 minute run. It's making me anxious because I can't figure out how to edit out the junk. I suppose someday (soon, I hope) I'll get the hang of the camera and most of the sequences won't seem worth editing. But I do need to learn. My daughter can do it, so I certainly should be able to. She is deaf and self teaches herself on almost everything. Who ever coined the phrase "deaf and dumb" sure didn't know deaf people. What they lack in hearing, they make up for in all the other senses, including intelligence.
     Anyway, since I forgot it was Bears 5th birthday on the first, I went out and took pix, in the snow, chasing him. He thought it was a great game! Most of the pix were of his butt. I did get several good ones. Some of Chipi and Sweetness, too. Sissy was off on her own. The rest are over on Bears side. Irene is sure a people dog. She wants to be with me all the time so is not real happy being a glass door away. Jason promptly hauled the blankets out into the snow. He is just a puppy. I'm just to old for puppies, in the winter time, anyway.
   Loren's down in the shop giving Tiya attention. Then in about an hour we'll do a town run, put up flyers for AC and my own and have Arby's for lunch.

1/08/10: 3:30 a.m. I've been back from walking Annie for about half an hour. They have all settled down again. The walk was not 'successful' only in making me freeze. Minus 2 degrees with the wind at about 5mph. with gusts of a lot more. This is so Keeton all over again. Emotionally it is harder then physically. I know what the poor girl is going through. Her life gets all disrupted and so does her routine. Well, I just heard the doggie door. Better go check on who went out and did not come back in. I'm sure it's either Charlie or Annie and neither will come back in on their own. Annie frightened and Charlie lost not being able to find his way. Then back to bed.
     9:30 a.m. It is colder then it was at 3:00. The ice in the big chest was frozen 6" thick. It is setting in the kitchen thawing so I can clean and fill it. Annie just will not stay in so I've for the gate closed. At least this way she won't go up on the hill. She has to stay close. Everybody's in so have to keep close tabs on Jason. He is great until he gets bored and decided to chew on stuff that is not appropriate. He tore up another mattress bed yesterday. I don't know what they did with his red Kong bone. You'd think it would be easy to spot in the snow. I've chased down Annie enough that I've pretty much covered the property and no sightings.
     I posted a video clip of Jason. It was concise, short and did not need edited. I'll spend time working on learning the editing process today, barring any interruptions. I may stick Zelda somewhere and switch sides for the dogs. That way I don't have to monitor Jason. I just put Bear's mattresses up on the crate and so far he has not pulled them down.
    6 pm: Aside from Jason eating another mattress and thinking Annie had die on me, the day went reasonably well. I gave up on the video editing after about 3 minutes. Don't need added frustration. Why can't programmers use common sense? If it shows scissors, you should be able to click on them cut the sequence and then click them again and cut again and then smush it together with the piece you cut, gone. Doesn't work that way.   It only lets me cut the beginning and the end. I want the beginning and the end. I don't want the middle. Geeze! Anyway, back to the dogs. Bear, Chipi, Sis and Sweetness were on this side most of the day. Picked up Bears mattresses (one a day is enough) and the rest went over on his side. Zelda is being careful so I let her be. She is very smart and I think she realizes what is going on and to be careful. Switched them back after a late lunch. Jason had to blow it around 3:30 so I just fed early and put him in his kennel. I let everyone all the way out after they ate. Left the doggie door open so some opted to stay in. Just before dark I realized Annie was missing. She was way up on the hill under a tree. The only place that does not have snow. I called and called and no response. It is 480 feet from the house to the top of the hill. That is a long way (1) going up hill and (2) in the freezing snow. Anyway, she did not respond to all my calling as I walked. All I could think was "don't die on me" over and over. Finally when I was about 6 feet from her, she moved. I leashed her (so she would not double back) and we went slipping and sliding back down. It's not steep but with snow turned ice from freezing and all the dog travel, it is careful stepping. I could ice skate on the deck. So now they are all locked in for the night...these anyway. Bear is letting the world know he is on patrol. I wish he would just be quiet one night when it is not torrential rain. That is the only thing keeping him from out on patrol. However often times he will bark from his room which is right next to my bed. Not sure which is worse: several loud barks every half hour or so, or one continuous monologue from sun down to sun up 200 feet away. Glad I don't have close neighbors.
      One final antidote. When Parker came in just before dark, he had icicles hanging from his jowls. His drool had froze! Now THAT is cold!

1/07/10: Minus 17 with the wind chill. Susan is coming down to rescue the cat as I can't let it in. I've got everybody locked in. Annie gets nervous and leaves and goes up on the hill so I don't have a choice other then closing her in a bedroom and that would really upset her. Keeping Zelda from going up the hill has been near impossible. I've poop scooped more poop in the past 3 days then in the past year. I knew I appreciated the land and the Pyrenees trait of going as far from the house as possible. Annie, however is use to going on leash on her walks. So guess who was up with flash light in hand at 1:00 a.m.! We walked about the length of 4 football fields before she finally went. I think because she has had less access to the big yard, she has not been going, thus not eating. She will take her pill in the hot dog and leave the rest. Three days it's been this way. I have even been hand feeding her to no avail. Obviously her tummy is off balance. Anyway, when we got back, she could not settle down. She kept pacing. I got everybody situated to where she did not feel threatened, but she still would not lay down. I ended up laying on the floor for about an hour hoping she would lay with me. She got a lot of petting but just stood there. I finally gave up, having locked everyone in and moved Sahara and Zelda into my bedroom, and went back to bed. Annie had the kitchen to share only with Parker. I got up every 10 minutes to see if she laid down. I just kept thinking "don't you die on me". She was just acting so strange.... well, more strange then usual. It was after 3 before I finally saw she was laying down so I could go back to sleep.
Everyone is napping right now. You'd think they had been doing all the days chores. I boiled up 6 pounds of chicken, 3 cups (=6) rice and added 4 cans green beans and 3 cups oatmeal. That will last a few weeks as their kibble 'topping' and pill disguise. Now I'm simmering spaghetti sauce for our lunch. Yesterday I made oatmeal coconut cookies for me and added raisins to Loren's half. Something about freezing weather puts me in the mood to be in the kitchen. Putting stew fixings in the crock pot later for tomorrow. No one wants to go out in this cold, not even the dogs.

1/6/10: If we were in Antarctica, it would be a heat wave, but we're not. Seventeen degrees anywhere is cold! Still dark but Sahara was determined I get up. I let all of them into the upper yard except Zelda. She is very confused. Anyway, I have them all corralled back in the house right now. Don't want to go chasing Annie to come in and eat when I'm ready to feed. Charlie is not doing well. Hasn't been for a long time. He's the cockapoo that Loren's had for about 13 years. He's coughing again. It's usually less in the winter but has really gotten bad the past few weeks. And he has trouble walking. His legs just go out from under him even on the rugs. And he has so many warts and abscesses that he stinks all the time. Have him bathed and within 2 days he smells terrible again. Poor guy. Can't see more then a few inches in front of him. Can't hear at all. Even his sense of smell has dwindled. I have to put a strong smelling treat right in front of his nose to get him to follow me to find the door. He kept finding his way outside last night but couldn't find his way back in. He's fallen off the deck several times since the snow. At least it's a soft landing and only about a foot drop. But then he doesn't know where he is. Since this went on a number of times by midnight, I finally just closed him in the other bed room and turned on lights so he could find his water. This is going to be a very long winter.

1/5/10: One of those days when I just should have stayed in bed, covered up my head and let the world go on without me. After 8 weeks of keeping Ashlee pretty much confined, now I have 6 weeks of 'Zelda control' ahead of me. She pulled the tendons in her knee. If she is not careful, it could pull worse requiring surgery. We had that with Sahara about 2 years ago. It was not fun and not cheap. Since Zelda loves to patrol and is the first one to run up the hill, it is more then just difficult. I have to keep all the dogs confined or separate Zelda, close the gate and then watch for when they want back in. If it were summer and not freezing and not snow on the ground and Annie was not here, it would be considerably less stressful. Right now, being morning number 1, it is taking it's toll on both me and all the dogs. Dogs like consistency and this is anything but consistent with the way things normally are. I love Annie but having her here is not easy. The other dogs intimidate her. They are not mean to her, she is just unsure. Always has been. I have to put the leash on her to get her through the doorway. Then I have to sit on the floor with her to get her to eat. This morning she ran out after I set her food on the floor and Sahara ate her pain pill. I got the bowl up before she ate everything, but took several minutes to get Annie back in. Then having to keep the gate closed to be sure Zelda did not go running up the hill, they all had to potty right by the back deck. I normally only have one shovel full to poop scoop because all but Sweetness run up on the hill to go. Being restricted, I had 10 dogs to poop scoop. Trying to get through the gate with each shovel full and keep Zelda from getting out or Jason getting in, was very nerve wracking. I've got to come up with a plan or the next 6 weeks are going to be my undoing. Ashlee was easy. Zelda will not be. This also means Bear and Chipi will not get in with us. I can't let Zelda over on his side because it's an acre. I can't close Zelda in a kennel because she would just not understand. She has not been in a kennel since I rescued her 4 years ago. She would think she did something wrong. It's too cold to take Bear and Chipi out to give them attention and the shop is out because that is where Tiya is. The choir has begun. Got to get it on tape one of these days. It only lasts 15 to 20 seconds and I never know when it's going to happen.

1/4/10 @ 1:43 a.m.: Had to get up and check the email. Had not heard on Ashlee before going to bed. An email is here now and maybe I can go back to sleep. Darn, I miss her. I'll feel better when I know all have settled in. It sounds like all is going well. I just know she is confused but is getting a lot of attention. Just realized I had not said on Saturdays post that They adopted Ashlee and not Irene. Maybe I was just in denial. Back to bed before the rest notice I'm missing and Sahara decides to get vocal about my absence from where she wants me.
Zelda has a vet app. at 2:00. She has been limping and holding the back foot up since Thursday. With the holiday, had to wait. Checked the foot. Nothing apparent, but if it were just a stone bruise, it would be getting better by now, not worse.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bEhhZG2EGI My video attempt. Loren edited it. He just couldn't take the wiggle out!! Shaking comes with old age and trying to walk in snow in tennis shoes.

1/3/10: Woke up to snow and it has not stopped. Don't know what the official amount is, but I have a good 4" and some small drifts in corners up to 8".   Worn out. I dry them off and then they go back outside. The snow freezes to them. It's not like it will brush off. All are fed and put to bed, even though it's only 5:00 pm. I'll let them out into the small area just before I'm ready to go to sleep. Hopefully Annie will come back in. Doubt I will get much sleep. She is afraid to walk through doorways or past other dogs. The dog house on the deck had snow blow into it last night so I had to dry the bedding and turn it as much as I could. It is her refuge when she is afraid to come in. I just worry so much about her. She is old. I collared Jason and took him to the back kennel. He gets in a frenzy when the other dogs are all fence fighting and when he is confined, he takes it out on Irene. She is so sweet and does not fight back; just yelps. (sounds weird since she wanted to eat the minpin.) Zelda is limping worse today. She won't even put the foot on the ground. Guess it's off to the vet tomorrow.
      I worked in the store today for about 4 hours. Loren made some more shelves the other day and I have things pretty well organized. Plenty of empty space now for more donations. Tiya is not real fond of the maze even though there is 4' between each table and shelf. I left her 2 cubby holes with blankets besides the crate so she has choices. She really hated to see me leave. If she would just get along with at least one other dog. Just afraid to try her with anyone after all the other attempts. Hope I'm not out of miracles because I sure need one to find her a home.
     Thought a lot about Ashlee. I keep thinking of things I forgot to tell them, like not to walk to close to her or you'll step on her feet. Not to tell her to 'sit' because it is hard for her. Take it easy on the stairs. I didn't realize their house had an upstairs. She may be handling them, but it's not good for her knees. I hate to be a pain, but I worry. I was way more attached to her then I had realized.

1/2/10: Freezing today. No one wanted to go too far from the house so I had 5 shovel's full to poop scoop. Usually I only have one because they all go way up on the hill. Linda came over as did not get my email saying "too cold to walk dogs". So we sat and brushed them for 2 hours. Some got way more then others. Annie was in her glory!! Ashlee and Irene loved the fact we were on the floor at their level. Goofy would get tired and go off and then come back. I think he kept hoping he would get a walk. I had broken the ice on the water this morning and within 2 hours, it was froze over again. They can all come inside if they get thirsty. A waste of time to do it again.
Have an adopter for Irene. They are coming from Cabot. Cabot is where Irene came from! They were 8 miles apart. Irene got a lot of miles on her just to turn around and go back. Glad I had her spayed Tuesday. I'm going to miss her. She is a great girl, especially not even a year old. I'm glad she was not here long enough to pick up bad habits from some of the others. They are bringing their minpin along. The lady that got her from the field said she did not get along with her minpin. Anyway, we will see how it goes. I really can't imagine Irene being aggressive towards anything. She just has such a sweet disposition.

1/1/10: Yesterday was a day of pleasure. Today is catch up time. Got the living room floor mopped. Still the kitchen to do, though. Took time out to brush Bear and Chipi. Chipi really does not need brushing, but she wants to feel important too. Sissy really needs it, but she hides. Being a short haired dog, she has the thickest coat and sheds more then all the others combined. Plan to head to the shop as soon as I finish here. I want to get the shelves made so I can start putting things in order for the store. Right now it's just a jumble. Tiya will be delighted we will be down there with her.
Only had to go get Annie 3 times last night. Zelda took up the door position twice. Sissy, once. Hardest was at 3:30 am. I got the door clear but Zelda wanted petted and Parker found a yellow colored ball and wanted to play. Considering the only light was 2 small night lights and the 40 watt deck light, the ball was hard to find on the white blank covering the rug. I played with him awhile. Could not resist. He is usually just an 'old man' in the house. He sure was being silly. Finally convinced him it was enough and got him on his mattress. Had to lasso Annie. She does not feel comfortable coming through doorways, especially when she can see one that might snap at her. Once I got her in, all had been outside so I figured they had all had plenty of potty opportunity so I closed the doggie door and they had to stay in. A few growls but mostly they slept. Sahara did start her 'conversation' with me about dawn, but it was getting time to get up anyway.