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MISTAKES CAN BE AVOIDED

October 2, 2017 | 34 Comments

DO YOUR RESEARCH!!!

I was recently contacted by Brittany, of Pet Wellness Advisor and asked to share my thoughts about: What is the biggest mistake dog owners make while caring for their pet, and how can they fix the issue?

Not doing research, in my opinion, is the biggest mistake dog owners make. This may seem like a blanket response; however, I believe that research is the foundation of responsible pet-parenting and can help prevent mistakes and prepare us for the tremendous responsibility we are about to take on. That of a living, dependant being. Regardless of species.

I admit that, as a first-time dog owner, I am guilty of not spending ENOUGH time doing my research before I rescued Henry. Thus, I made SEVERAL mistakes. Remorseful dog mom face.

It’s not that I didn’t do ANY research, I just didn’t realize how much there is to know!

  • traits and requirements of different breeds
  • breeder or rescue
  • diet, nutrition, and supplements
  • exercise
  • training
  • puppy teeth
  • puppy behavior
  • toys (not all created equally – safe)
  • restricted food items
  • other hidden, unexpected dangers
  • what to do in case a mischievous dog gets into something they shouldn’t
  • what to do if they escape
  • seasonal safety
  • travel safety
  • grooming (do you know not to clip a double-coated dog?)
  • vet checks & vaccinations (research – how often is really necessary and what products)
  • senior companion concerns

The list goes on.  And on.

Many of the above-mentioned points come with sub-points such as, how to choose a reputable breeder or rescue, vet, groomer, dog walker or pet sitter, and what and how to train your dog.

Research should be ongoing. 

For example, I am continuously comparing nutrition content and supplements. I’ve learned (through research) that dogs, like people, can become intolerant of food items. We switch it up now and then.  As dogs age, so do their needs. Having two senior dogs, one with a compromised immune system, I need to know what options are available to us.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice from your vet or a qualified, reputable trainer, and don’t rely on the first thing you read, or are told

Our vet, Dr. Mudde is amazing.  He is happy to review and discuss my findings, answer ALL my questions and because he knows it is important for me to learn, he educates me on things he knows I will find interesting and possibly beneficial not just to my pack but for those with whom I share the information. Don’t be afraid to discuss concerns and inquire about options.

I don’t mean to overwhelm you, and it is without judgment that I share my response. I am grateful there are so many pet-people, providing happy homes for animal companions. We’re in this together. We guide and support each other and share useful information. We learn different ways to connect with, and have more fun with our companions.  We do our research because we love them and want to protect them.

Know better, do better!

I am humbled to be asked my opinion and appreciate the opportunity to share this feedback.  Thank you, Brittany and PWA team for speaking with myself and other ‘practiced’ pet parents to compile a list and for making this information available to those who are doing their research.

 

 

 

What are some things you’ve needed to research for your companion(s)? Please comment below.

 

Categories: TRICKS, TREATS & TRAINING Tagged: Exercise, Health, Nutrition, Play, Research, Safety

GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA

November 18, 2016 | 43 Comments

CAPE SAN BLAS / INDIAN PASS / PORT ST. JOE / ST. JOE BEACH /WEWAHITCHKA
Pet-friendly

Pet-friendly Gulf County

Apalachicola – Franklin County

It may be referred to as Florida’s forgotten coast , but after a few weeks of being back home, this beautiful part of the panhandle is still very much on my mind.

All my research indicated this part of Florida was remote and secluded. October is especially quiet as most tourists visit during the summer months. Previously, our vacations have been relatively fast-paced: long drives to get to our destinations followed by day trips and sight-seeing upon arrival. It took me a couple of years to convince my husband that we needed a quiet, relaxing holiday to unwind and recharge our batteries. We both work long hours in jobs that, at times weigh heavily upon us.

Cape San Blas was the perfect place to shake it off!

shakin-it-off

Although remote, it was not exclusive, and although we chose not to do an enormous amount of sight-seeing, we were made to feel welcome by the locals wherever we chose to venture. The pride they have for this little piece of heaven is evident, and they were happy to share information and make suggestions that only added to such an incredible experience. One thing we noticed immediately was how pet-friendly the area is. Exception for State Parks, dogs on leashes are welcome to enjoy the sights and interact with their owners.  Bring a few training leashes for active dogs!

Reese was placed on the beach for the photo. Otherwise,lLeash on when not being carried.

Reese was placed on the beach for the photo. Otherwise, Leash on when not being carried.

For Dog Visitors:

  • Port City Trail is a nearly four-mile stretch wandering through the town
  • Bay Walk Trail runs between Port St. Joe Marina and Fran Pate Park with picturesque views of St. Joseph Bay.
  • Restaurants with Pet-friendly patios (The following offer veggie options)
krazyfish

Krazy Fish Grille

Penny on the patio at Triple Tails

Penny on the patio at Triple Tails

View from Up The Creek Raw Bar

View from Up The Creek Raw Bar

Provisions

Provisions

  • Port St. Joe
    • Krazy Fish Grill
    • Provisions
    • Triple Tails
    • bin 4 eleven coffee house
  • Apalachicola (Franklin County)
    • Up The Creek Raw Bar
    • Oyster City Brewing Company (beer is vegan!!!)
  • Pet Shops – perfect for Fido to pick up a souvenir for Fifi
    • Bow Wow Beach Shop – Port St. Joe
    • Oysterbones – Apalachicola
  • St. Joseph Bay Humane Society – please stop by and paw it forward
  • BEACHES, BEACHES, BEACHES
Sweetwater Cottage

Sweetwater Cottage

We felt right at home in our pet-friendly accommodation.

Sweetwater Cottage is only steps from the beach with a clear view of the sand and sea from it’s screened-in porch.

We could not have asked for more! This bungalow was the perfect retreat for my husband and me, and our dogs. The sunlight filled this home during the day, and we enjoyed sitting on the swing or eating at the table on the porch. The dogs LOVED finding sun spots from which they relaxed and enjoyed the view!

Leslie is an incredible hostess – reach out to her before booking, and you will know what I mean. Even though a binder and brochures are provided at the cottage, Leslie enjoys speaking with guests, in person, to share her knowledge of the area.

The area is also home to an abundance of wildlife: Bears, Loggerhead Turtles, and Eagles to name a few. The locals cherish the nature occurring in their backyards and beaches. The “Leave No Trace” ordinance is an outline of all the rules put in place to protect their local treasure.

view-from-the-beach

Although there did prove to be several activities and excursions at our destination, we stuck to our plan and relaxed. Visits to Port St. Joe and Apalachicola to sample local cuisine and some retail therapy were about the most effort we made (this trip – stay tuned for part two).

park

The area is unspoiled by big box-stores. Instead, we discovered several boutique-style shops and several pet-friendly patios. It was as if we had stepped back in time. A large grocery store in Port St. Joe may be the exception although not seeming out of place and not without charm. Community member George W. Duren’s Piggly Wiggly is fondly referred to by locals as ‘the pig.’ During our stay, The Pig had it’s grand ‘re-opening’ and hosted a fundraising event for the local humane society – making this large shop even more endearing to this tourist!

Water enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of interactions available on an equally varied selection of waters (say that ten times, fast):

  • swim
  • fish
  • snorkel
  • kayak
  • paddleboard
  • boat
  • fishing and sightseeing boat tours and charters also available

psj-marina

On dry land:

  • horseback riding on the beach
  • golfing
  • family days at more than a dozen parks
  • biking and walking trails
  • retail therapy in Port St. Joe and Apalachicola (drive to St. George Island and visit Island Dog Beach and Surf Shop)
  • art studios

arty-apalachicola

When not exploring Port St. Joe or Apalachicola, we walked the beaches of powdery white sand.  On more than one occasion we had the pleasure of seeing dolphins play, and we enjoyed watching our dogs run in and out of the sea at the same time. In vacations past, we would have to drive for miles to find the nearest pet-friendly beach.

our-beach-2

This was Jack’s first ever vacation. He was formally used as a breeding dog in a puppy mill before we rescued him.  We wondered if it might be too soon for him and considered postponing our holiday.  Other than a few anxious moments, Jack was relaxed and happy.  I would say he enjoyed the trip!

Shelling, Bonfires on the beach, watching the most beautiful sunsets followed by an encore of sparkling stars fill the sky…my perfect vacation!

golden

sunsets

 

This slower pace allowed us the opportunity to relax and reflect on all that is important in our lives.  I can’t wait for our next visit to this beautiful destination along the panhandle’s gulf shores.

Main signature

 

Categories: TRAVEL Tagged: Beach, Dog-Friendly Travel Destination, Play, Sun

B – BRAVO

April 2, 2016 | 8 Comments

BLOGGING A TO Z CHALLENGE

Henry LOVES agility

Henry LOVES agility

How do you connect with your dog? What reward methods do you use? Does your dog respond to treats, toys, praise?

Henry and I love our agility nights – fun for us both. Henry has a blast running through tunnels and jumping obstacles. He is treat obsessed driven followed by praise and lastly, toys. Henry’s sister Reese, on the other hand, loves her toys.

Whatever their preference, one aspect of positive reinforcement training is praise and encouragement. BRAVO!

A bit late on this one, and it’s only day two of the challenge! Oops.

Please check back tomorrow for CHARLIE (I’ll have the post up early – promise).

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Categories: WORKS OF ART Tagged: Agility, Art, Play, Praise

LUST – OR IS IT? The Awareness Project

August 31, 2015 | 6 Comments

HUMPING HABITS

GIMME A KISS - Photo courtesty of GillyFace Photos

GIMME A KISS- photo courtesty of GillyFace Photos

The most recent incident occurred when I attended a Dog Lover’s Days event. I had Henry and Reese on short leashes while attempting to speak with one of the vendors. The moment I heard the giggles, I knew exactly what was going on behind my back. I excuse myself from the conversation long enough to lift a humping Henry off Reese’s back. SO EMBARASSING!!!

Sometimes I will take the time to explain to onlookers that this act can be a notion of insecurity. Henry often feels the need to prove his authority. He is the dominant dog. Or, in situations where there is a lot happening and large groups of people and dogs (Dog Lover’s Days), Henry becomes excited! The event triggered a transfer of anxious energy. I hope they believe me when I say that Henry isn’t a horny, exhibitionist of a dog (showoff, yes). Other times I just step between both dogs and walk away as quickly as possible. Only separate dogs if you know they won’t become aggressive towards you for interfering.

When Henry was a puppy, he had a ‘special friend’ we called Mr. Otter. Henry humped the hell out of that Otter. It was a sad day when we had to say goodbye to Henry’s favorite (sex) toy. Henry and I had attended Puppy Training class earlier that evening and during the class, we were told to switch dogs and their toys with someone else in the class. I will never forget the look on the woman’s face when I handed over the leash, and that ‘well-loved’ Otter. It was time for a new toy.
Henry didn’t connect that same way with any of the new toys we bought him.I guess you never get over your first love.

We thought perhaps the issue had stopped when, at seven months he was neutered. We had been advised to wait a while longer (seven months) so Henry would not experience ‘SmallDog Syndrome.’ We were also advised by a trainer to ensure we took measures to demonstrate authority.

These include:
-walking through a door first
-eating before serving the dog their meal
-request a ‘sit,’ or ‘wait,’ or another command before rewarding the dog.
We taught the dogs to ‘wait’ at the back door until we release them, and they can run and explore. We also have them ‘wait’ on their bed in the kitchen until their food bowls are on the ground, and they make eye contact with (acknowledge) us before we release them to eat. These are just a few examples of how you can establish your authority – as well as teach good manners to your dog.

Small Dog Syndrome or SDS is the demonstration of aggressive behavior by small dogs in an attempt to show dominance. The syndrome is usually due to a lack of socialization. Definitely not true in Henry’s case.

Perhaps, the demonstration IS for show and Henry feels the need to prove his manhood. Reese wears the boots and is the dominatrix at home. Somehow it seems almost comical to see a small, spayed female attempt to hump a larger dog. A sign of SDS. People tend to think that acts of aggression or dominance, towards the owner, other person or dog may not seem threatening when coming from a small dog. I know a woman, whose small dog will growl at her every time she picks him up. NOT cute and if behavior such as this is left uncorrected, it can escalate. Another dog at our agility club will quite openly ‘Paw himself’ while waiting his turn to run the course. Why? Because it feels good and he can!

Henry Heff

Handsome Playboy & The Cutest Bunny-Photo courtesy of GillyFace Photos

The long and short of it is this; Dogs hump for many different reasons:
-Basic Sexual Desire
-During Play (or in an attempt to initiate play)
-As a response to Stress/Anxiety, or Excitement (this can become habitual behaviour)
-Status/Dominance
-Medical issues, such as skin irritations/allergies or urinary tract infections. Other medical issues might also cause this behavior. If you notice excessive mounting, licking, scratching or chewing, visit your veterinarian.

Henry has several of those mentioned above notched into his bedpost.
If nothing else, this display of assumed affection gives me the opportunity to share the information I’ve researched with others.

‘Share the love’ so to speak.

Untitled

 

 

GillyFace Photos

Categories: THE AWARENESS PROJECT Tagged: Anxiety, Desire, Dominance, Excitement, Illness, Play, SDS

“if you can’t fly then run,

January 8, 2015 | 14 Comments

if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”

– MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

Role models - Claire and Monty show us how it's done!

Role models – Claire and Monty show us how it’s done!

Who says running can’t be fun?
Especially, when your best friend is your running partner.

I always enjoyed walking; a form of physical exercise that can also have a mentally calming, and a mind-clearing effect.  I would walk forty minutes to work and back home at the end of the day.  I would walk with my husband in the evenings and with friends and friends with dogs on the weekends.  Now, I enjoy daily walks with my dogs.

Even though he’s small, Henry has an abundance of energy, and he loves to run, full throttle along some of the beautiful trails we have in our area.  Unfortunately, he is not so good at recall (that’s me being kind; HE CAN NOT BE TRUSTED).  So, for Henry to be able to fly like the wind, one of his people has to be at the end of his leash!

Anyone, who has attempted to become a ‘runner’, knows this title is not assumed overnight.  It takes time to build speed, and stamina, and proper technique so as not to injure yourself.

I started out by joining a running group and met new friends in the process.  Such groups are becoming quite popular; if there’s not one in your area, why not start your own?  Guides and other tools are readily available online.

One such group is The Running Room.  Although dogs are not invited to participate, there are several groups you and your companion can join later.  When you’re able to keep up with your dog!

For information about upcoming workshops, visit http://www.runningroom.com/

Our friends Claire and Monty, are great examples of teamwork and as you can see from the video, both truly enjoy the experience.   Claire shared with us the following sentiment;

We have been running canicross for about 14 months now. We run as part of Ashridge Canicross Club and we run on a Wednesday night (in the dark) and Sat mornings when my shifts allow. We have competed quite a few races in 2014. 

All our runs are on the trails and many normal running races are now allowing Canicrossers to take part as it is becoming so popular.

The photo and Video is from Ashridge Club race weekend. As a club it was our first race that we had organised and it went really well. We love it because it keeps us both fit, great socialisation for Monty and the bond between us since we started running together is something I can’t really describe.

I thought we had a great partnership before but since being involved in this our friendship has gone up another level. He gives me his all when he is running and when he sees the harness coming out, he goes bonkers! And if he is happy I am happy.

https://herandherdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/ClaireandMonty2015-01-04-10.38.32.mp4

Well done Claire and Monty; you have set a great example for the rest of us!

Photograph courtesy of Houndscape Photography – thank you Vicky Stipetic
http://houndscape.co.uk/

Ashridge Canicross Club
http://ashridgecanicrossers.org.uk/

 

 

Categories: HEALTH & WELLNESS Tagged: Best Friend, Dogs, Enjoy Life, Fun, Play, Run, Walk

‘TIS THE SEASON

December 21, 2014 | Leave a Comment

HOLIDAY STYLE FEATURING APPAREL FROM KIPEKEE COUTURE

Festive Front Door

Romantic

OR,

Formal Setting

We’re decked out, ready for any occasion.  Thank you Kipekee Couture.

Describing themselves as “true­-to-­the-­core animal lovers,”  Kipekee Couture says:

Each of our pets has a unique personality, a style of their own. It is because of their individuality that we created Kipekee. Made entirely of unusual, unique and stylish recycled fabrics, each of Kipekee’s exquisite lines is carefully handcrafted with impeccable attention to detail.

Ricky

This bandana was a great choice for Ricky, and he LOVES wearing it.  A collar might not show beneath his mane!

Henry

Henry looks so handsome in this ‘dressed up denim’ collar.

Reese

Pretty in Pink!  Reese was more than happy to pose for photos in her beautiful floral print collar.  In fact, she did not want me to take it off at bedtime (sweet dreams of sugar plum fairies).

Visit their website to see all the stunning designs available http://kipekee.ca/

Henry, Reese and Ricky love this holiday theme!

Henry, Reese and Ricky love this holiday theme!

Thanks also to Georgina Garden Centre for allowing us to share their gorgeous festive displays and gift items.

http://www.ggconline.ca/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Categories: WORKS OF ART Tagged: Beautiful, Canine Couture, Cats, Dogs, Feline Couture, Feline Friends, Goodwill, Henry, Play, Reese

A PAGE OUT OF THEIR BOOK

October 19, 2014 | Leave a Comment

Children & Dogs

A page from the book ‘Henry says, “Hello”

The above images are from our photo shoot to create marketing images for the book ‘Henry says, “Hello.”  The children arrived, smiling.  Immediately they started playing with the dogs – it was so natural and incredible to watch.  The dogs appeared comfortable in the presence of the children.  When children behave respectfully around dogs, it is an enjoyable experience for everyone.

These are not only campaign models; they are role-models.  We should all take a page out of ‘their’ book.

My thanks to Ava, Henry, Jack, Alyssa, Jake, Cassandra and Reese.

 

Photographs courtesy of Nexus Photography www.nexus-photo.com

Categories: FOR A CAUSE Tagged: Beautiful, Best Friend, Dogs, Enjoy Life, Friends, Fun, Inspiration, Play

a real doll

March 3, 2014 | Leave a Comment

There are many different stories behind the arrival of a dog to the shelter.  This beautiful girl was a stray.

Loving her new life

Loving her new life

Dolly (found wandering), was emaciated, and although they could not be located there was evidence that she had had puppies.  It was also apparent (based on behaviour), that she had been abused.

It was love at first sight for her new owner – a volunteer at the shelter.  The feeling was mutual.

Dolly is a happy girl, enjoying life as a dog should.

 Happy Girl

Dolly 

A walk by the lake

Thank you Sarah for allowing me to share Dolly’s story, and thank you for giving her the wonderful, loving home she deserves.

Categories: HAPPY TALES & TRIBUTES Tagged: Best Friend, Forever Home, Fun, Happy, Love, Play, Rescue, Safe, Walk

love is in the air – a family affair

February 14, 2014 | 4 Comments

With love on Valentine’s Day, from our pack to yours…

just the four of us

just the four of us

  boys

  IMG_2304

 

Henry

Henry

 

True colours

True colours

 

Hinleaves

 

 

IMG_2310

 

IMG_2312

 

 

The girls

The girls

  

double delight

 

content  

adorable

 

my girl

 

IMG_2373

 

 

HP in truck

 

 

IMG_2127

 

 

IMG_2117

 

Pups in truck

come here often?

 

 

playing in the park

 

 

a walk along the beach

a walk along the beach

 Thank you Aisling at Oak & Myrrh Photography for creating our family album!

www.oakandmyrrh.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Categories: OUR PACK, WORKS OF ART Tagged: Family, Fun, Love, Loyal, Pack, Paws, Play

MERRY CHRISTMAS RICKY

January 1, 2014 | 2 Comments

The time between Christmas and the New Year seems like no time at all.  I like to take my time transitioning, and enjoy the special moments.  Ricky has been with us for nearly a year, and we decided to treat him to his own ‘hangout’.

King Richard's throne

King Richard’s throne

Categories: HAPPY TALES & TRIBUTES Tagged: Cats, Foster, Fun, Gifts, Love, Play

A BEAUTIFUL LIFE – REMEMBERING CHARLIE

August 24, 2013 | 8 Comments

John was unable to alarm the bike; Charlie kept setting it off.

John was unable to alarm the bike; Charlie kept setting it off.

My fiancé, and I, had just purchased our first house together, in Addlestone, Surrey, U.K. It wasn’t a home, until we adopted Oscar and Charlie. Yes, my fiancé and I enjoyed each other’s company, however, there’s just something extra special about coming home to the greeting of an animal companion. Even the worst day, can be turned around with a cuddle from a furry friend.

Together, we went to Katz Castle and watched, as the cats played together in their pens. Oscar and Charlie were two of the older kittens in the shelter, and it seemed everyone else was interested in the babies. Also, it seemed sad to think of brother and sister being separated. We decided they would both come home with us.

For the next few months, we enjoyed watching them play together. Oscar was full of energy, and would tear around the house; often pouncing on his unsuspecting sister. Charlie remained gracious and rarely objected.

My husband, and I flew to Canada to be married, and after much consideration, we asked neighbours to visit, and care for the cats. We decided they would be happier together in their own home, as opposed to a cat hotel. Anyone with pets, knows how hard it is to leave them. The guilt generated as they stretch out in the suitcase, as if to say “no, please don’t go.” Oscar got out the front door, while we were away, and was hit by a car. We learned of this sad news soon after arriving home. I had walked into the house, excited to see Charlie and Oscar. I saw only Charlie, and realized immediately, something was wrong. I felt remorse for having left them, and tried to put on a brave face for our neighbours; they were, of course, also devastated.

Charlie seemed relieved that we were home, and stayed close by us as much as possible. She soon adapted to being an only child; playing solo with her toys, or staring us down until we picked up the end of a fuzzy mouse to participate in the game. She seemed content and happy to receive all the attention. Attention, not only from us, but also from Edith, the elderly neighbour next door.

A vast number of villages in England, are made up of ‘semi-detached’ houses, with non, soundproof ‘lean-to’s’ between properties on one side, and another residence on the other side. We lived in such a property. Edith, lived in the house next to us; our ‘lean-to’s’ adjoined. We used ours as a laundry room, and through-way from the front of the house to the back garden. The back door had been fitted with a cat-flap for Charlie. She never ventured far, and enjoyed lazing about in sunny spots. One day, I was folding clothes, and I heard Edith speaking in a sing-song voice to Charlie. “There you are Charlie Bear (our ‘pet’ name for Charlie), you’re a beautiful, spoiled girl; yes, you are. This cream makes your coat lovely and shiny, and you certainly do enjoy it.” And then, she laughed and continued her one-sided conversation, while, I imagined Charlie to be lapping up her cream, quite contentedly. Edith was from the south of England, the land of cream and scones. Only the most fatty of creams would do. Hardly surprising that Charlie was filling out! We noticed she had started to gain some weight and decided to cut down her meal portions. Now we knew, why it wasn’t making a difference.

Although Charlie had become heavier, it did not slow her down. I had just had a shower, and thankfully dressed before heading downstairs. As I approached the top of the stairs, Charlie appeared in the open window, across from me; in her mouth, was the biggest blackbird I had ever seen.

The sound a cat makes, when they are holding a prize, is hideous. Not, however, to be outdone by the noise emitted by said cat’s horrified guardian. My shrieking, did not achieve a desirable resolution. Instead of disappearing back out of the window, Charlie herself flew into the house, landing on the stairs. She continued to the bottom, and with one backwards glance; as if to sarcastically say “you’re welcome,” she disappeared out of the living room window.

My shrieking had turned into tears, as I watched this poor bird succumb to its’ wounds. Cats have a natural prey drive, and it doesn’t matter if you serve them all the cream in Devon, they won’t lose that natural instinct to hunt. Later, when the shock of it all subsided, I made a mental note to purchase more realistic toys. Perhaps that would work.

I had nearly made it to the bottom of the stairs, and was trying to figure out how I could avoid the scene of the murder, and make it to the living room. Our front door, and the stairway, were separated by a mere 3ft, by 3ft square; barely the wing-span of a Blackbird. As I stood there, in tears, the blurred vision of Edith, suddenly appeared, through the frosted glass in the door. She bent down and pushed open the mail slot in the door. “What’s happened”? She asked. As her gaze moved to the floor she realized what had, in fact, occurred. “Oh dear”, she fretted. Then, she disappeared around the corner, leaving me stranded. Just as quickly Edith reappeared. “Charlie, you naughty girl”, she scolded. I leaped from the third step up, into the bay window of the living room. Edith tried, unsuccessfully, to open the door. Latch-bolts seem like a great idea until you become stuck inside your house. “It’s no use”. “You’re going to have to get down and come open the door” she commanded. By now, a few of the neighbours had stopped tending their hedges, and were watching with curious anticipation. I placed my feet on the floor below the window, and thankfully they provided support to the ‘jelly-like’ legs attached. I leaned across the threshold and unlatched the door. Edith squeezed her way through the door – as if not to disturb any evidence, scooped the poor, expired bird, into a plastic carrier bag, and again, disappeared.

Thankfully, there was only one bird and this murder scene did not resemble the Brenner home, laden with blackbirds, from the Alfred Hitchcock movie. I suppose, however, not unlike the shock of being encircled by a flock of birds, this later experience might very well compare: A friend was visiting on this particular evening, and it had been raining for a little more than an hour, when we heard the first squeak. You see, Charlie loved playing with frogs, and when it rained, there were plenty of squeaky toys for her to choose from. I opened the door from the kitchen to the lean-to, picked up two toads and returned them to the garden. I didn’t think to lock the cat-flap.

Engrossed in conversation, an hour or so had passed before I heard the next squeak. Amused by this game, my friend Tina accompanied me to the back room. I opened the door and was horrified to find, what must have been every toad in town, in my laundry room. They started hopping into the kitchen. As we became surrounded, by a ‘knot’ of toads (that is the term for a large group), my friend suddenly remembered, she had to be somewhere, and quickly disappeared.
I could not remove the toads faster than Charlie would bring them in. After the shock turned into frustration, I came up with a solution; put Charlie on the other side of the closed door while I undid the knot, lock the cat-flap, wash my hands, and pour another, very large, glass of wine. To this day, when I hear a toad I remember that night.

Speaking of entertaining guests, Charlie, turned out to be quite the hostess also. I had invited a close friend, to stay with us, while she did some travelling around Europe. One morning, after my husband and I had left for work, Melissa wandered downstairs, for breakfast. Thinking she was still half asleep, she rubbed her eyes and purveyed the lounge a second time. I guess Charlie had also decided to have guests over. There, on each bum space of furniture, was a cat. Shaking her head, Melissa carried on to the kitchen. “I felt as if I was crashing the party”, she later commented.

Many adventures later, my husband and I moved to Canada; where I’m from. It was something we had been discussing for a few years, and one of the factors of course, was Charlie. We talked about leaving her with my mother-in-law; Bernie adored Charlie, and the feeling was mutual. I knew that Charlie would be loved, and very well cared for however, I could not bring myself to leave her. This girl was an adventurer, and no scaredy cat. As quarantine was not required, we decided to bring Charlie with us.

The plane ticket for our thirteen pound feline cost more than one of our tickets. She was our baby girl and so, after researching the best transport options for her, we picked up her special travel crate and prepared for the big move.
I had been offered a job, and left the week before my husband, to attend training. The following week, Charlie was delivered to the airport prior to my husband’s departure; however, she would not leave until the next day. This was to guarantee, her guardian would be at the airport waiting to meet, and collect her. We were very pleased with the service and consideration given to animal companions. Charlie’s travel companion was a beautiful black Labrador Retriever; they arrived at the airport at the same time, and came through arrivals in Toronto together.

When they arrived at our fully furnished, rented accommodation, Charlie wandered around, and explored this new environment before settling comfortably beside her dad, on the sofa. Charlie took everything in stride; this was just one of those things.

Over the years, we moved five more times, and adopted more family members; Ollie and Maggie, both feline, and dogs; Henry and Reese. Charlie was ‘mama bear’ to all, and each of them showed her the respect she deserved.
In later years, Charlie slowed down, and her cream-filled tummy slimmed down. We modified her diet, from kibble to soft food, accommodating her loss of teeth and, now delicate jaw. A diagnosis, of ‘hyper-thyroidism,’ required medication to be administered at each meal. Charlie continued to take everything in stride. Even though, she wasn’t as active these days, Charlie still enjoyed basking in the sunshine, and the occasional swipe at her toys, or whichever of the dogs walked across her path.

Sadly, on the Victoria Day weekend, Charlie’s health declined rapidly. She stopped eating, her eyes became dull, and she was lethargic. We encouraged her to eat, to no avail and the water we syringed into her mouth, found its way back out. We did not want to see her suffer, and after consulting the veterinarian, we made the very difficult decision to help her on to her next journey.

Charlie had an adventurous life, and enjoyed every new experience during her eighteen years. Now, she rests peacefully among the English Lavender in the garden.

In England, her home country, it is believed that black cats are lucky. “Charlie, our beautiful, tuxedo kitty – we certainly feel lucky to have had you in our lives. In time, the grief turns into reflection; the ability to enjoy the wonderful memories you helped us create. Thank you”.

http://www.katzcastle.co.uk/

http://cprpets.weebly.com/keeping-cats-safe.html

http://www.passportforpets.co.uk/

http://animaltravel.com/

http://www.2ndchance.info/oldcat.htm

http://www.2ndchance.info/hyperthyroid.htm

http://www.catinfo.org/?link=felinehyperthyroidism

Categories: HAPPY TALES & TRIBUTES Tagged: Beautiful, Charlie, Cuddles, Enjoy Life, Forever Home, Journey, Love, Play, Princess, Rescue, Whiskers

boys will be boys

April 10, 2013 | Leave a Comment

less than 24 hours after visiting the groomer Henry could not resist the fragrant scents of Spring.  Mud season in Ontario.  The irony; we are expecting a winter storm tomorrow.  Good thing I haven’t packed Henry’s coat and boots away just yet!  Remember the boots Henry?

guilty looking, dirty faced boy

guilty looking, dirty faced boy

Categories: OUR PACK Tagged: Bathtime, Dig, Dirty Dog, Play

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