Happy New Year!

The Chinese may believe it's the year of the Tiger but Stumpy disagrees! It's always the Year of the Dog at our house!




Found on craigslist

On New Year's Eve , I wish...

For every dog searching trash cans for breakfast, a full bowl with his name printed in bright letters.

For every dog who slept fitfully last night, chained in a frozen yard, a soft, warm bed with a person snoring gently nearby.

For every shelter dog, spending the New Year morning in a soiled run, a forever home, filled with sounds and smells of family.

For every "Christmas" puppy given this year, a tolerant, caring owner who won't abandon you as you grow into a real dog.

For every ailing pet, enough money for your owner to pay the bills to make you well.

For every lost dog, a clear, safe road, and well marked path, to lead you home.

For every old and tired friend, a warm fire, and a soft bed, to ease your aches and pains.

and

For every Heart Dog at the Bridge, a moment when you know that you are remembered today, missed again, and loved forever.

To all our blogger friends, 4 legged and 2, thanks for sharing your life with us. We're looking forward to sharing some more throughout 2010.

Available now at Lulu.com. Click here to purchase one now. Each purchase helps the New Hope Cattle Dog Rescue in Phoenix, Arizona.

Don't forget! You can use the discount code AFTERXMAS for a 20% discount! Ordering multiples will give you an even bigger discount!

Preview the calendar by using the buttons at the bottom of the screen.

Best Pet Product of 2009... I can't believe this!!!

Who did they talk to? Where did they get their stats? I am so sure the 2010 Dogs That Blog Calender, ACD Edition is supposed to be on that list! ON THE TOP OF THAT LIST!!!
Available now at Lulu.com. Click here to purchase one now. Each purchase helps the New Hope Cattle Dog Rescue in Phoenix, Arizona.

Don't forget! You can use the discount code AFTERXMAS for a 20% discount! Ordering multiples will give you an even bigger discount!

Preview the calendar by using the buttons at the bottom of the screen.


OK now remember...this is the top 11 products with the 2010 Dogs That Blog Calendar ACD Edition being #1

I've ordered my calendar and there are a few things on this list Stumpy wants...

The Chatter Bowl a talking pet bowl (She should have told me BEFORE Christmas!!!)

"Does your dog get lonely when you are away? Well you can avoid pet separation anxiety with this cool new talking pet bowl called the ChatterBowl. This unique bowl allows you to record a 10 second message to your pet that is played every time they go for a drink of water or to eat. You just simply push the record button on the built-in TalkBox and speak." Hmmmm...now what would I say to Stumpy....

Companion Therapy Laser... OK I want one of these for me but I would definitely let Stumpy borrow it.

"Laser therapy applied with the Companion therapy laser system provides a sterile, pain-free, surgery- free, drug-free treatment which is used to treat a variety of injuries, wounds, fractures, neurological conditions, numerous dermatological problems, and pain. Whether your pet is rehabilitating from trauma or injury, healing from wounds, or simply aging, your companion will benefit from this revolutionary new approach to Veterinary medicine."

Pogo Plush Ball I'm thinking a sock tied at one end with an empty water bottle will do the trick.

"This Large Pogo Plush Ball from Premier (PP BALL L) features plush sheepskin and an enclosed squeaker. An internal rubber cage protects the squeaker and creates a unique bounce back effect! Available in large and small sizes."


Grrrrrr!!! they won't let me embed the video...they must know I am getting the truth out to the masses...

Best Pet Products of 2009

So there you have it. Surely a beautiful calendar filled with wonderful lovable dogs is waaaay better than any of this. And the fact that it benefits dogs needing homes is a double whammy! You can't possibly go wrong!

Wooooo whoooooo!!! Dogs That Blog 2010 Calendar, ACD Edition is HERE!!!

We got a sneak preview of the 2010 Dogs That Blog ACD Calendar yesterday! Let me just tell you that each one of these dogs has a future in show business, if they want.

Each of Stumpy's friends, Norwood, Gus, Callie and Louie (AKA Three Happy Heelers), Velcro, Charlie Daniels, Wyatt Twirp and Ruger and Neve, appear as though they have been in front of the camera all their lives.

You'd never guess that among these super models are dogs with special needs (deaf), dogs that were once afraid of their own shadow. Most of the participants are from rescues and shelters, with very rough beginnings. Still, with love and guidance, they made the leap to well socialized and reliable partners.

I must make mention of the fact that none of this would be possible if Norwood hadn't volunteered his assistant to do all the work. Please be sure to stop over at Norwood's and convince him to throw his assistant an extra bone or two!

Pooooor assistant, always following in Norwood's shadow. Oops!! that's her shadow! Anyways, if you know Norwood at a all, you know what a hard job it would be to keep up with him! Yup! that assistant could sure use an extra bone on her dinner plate tonight!

We're hoping that with this calendar we can not only support New Hope Cattle Dog Rescue, but also encourage people to look at this breed more closely as a prospective pet.

NHCD has some dogs that are still going through the evaluation process. You should feel free to call and inquire about them.

Bett, an adult female


CeCe, a red female adolescent Cattle Dog (her link doesn't work, but she is on the adoption page if you scroll down...


Leopold, a blue adolescent Cattle Dog. Leo is deaf.


Schnook, a red male adolescent Cattle Dog mix.


Charlie, a blue male adolescent Cattle dog, has no picture yet.

Of course, New Hope Cattle dog Rescue might not be close enough to make adoption from them feasible. Click here, for contacts of ACDs, needing homes, listed by state. Or check out Petfinder, for ACD's listed there

Lulu.com coupon codes: I used two,HOHOHO for 20% off and ANIMALS15 FOR 10% off another order. HOLIDAYS is another possiblity.
Norwood's assistant just advised us that AFTERXMAS, a code for 20% off is valid until 1/2

ROCK STARS: New Hope Cattle Dog Rescue and Rehoming

Stumpy takes a break from her silliness to ponder the ACDs in rescues and shelters everywhere and hopes they find their forever homes, soon!


As a rescue operation New Hope Cattle Dogs Rescue (NHCD) is a shining example of responsibility. NHCD goes beyond rescue and re-homing. They address public education and relations with regards to Cattle Dog ownership. Their website is a wealth of facts and information. They cover topics including training, nutrition, health and genetics, and much, much more. Links on their website can lead you to more information, in order that someone can make informed decisions with regards to their own ACD or perhaps, bringing an ACD into their home.

Visit NHCDog Rescue website and read about their successful adoptions, from the adopters point of view.

I KNOW the dogs in this video think NHCD rock!


Having been involved in rescuing and rehabbing dogs for many years, I have my opinions on what constitutes a good rescue. Security and support for both the dog and it's adopted family are a priority in legitimate and responsible rescue. With a homecheck, contract, microchipping, trial period and education NHCD does it's best to ensure a lifetime parnership for everyone.

There are more dogs in the rescue program at NHCDogs.

Misty is about 2 years old. and she iz sweet, sweet, sweet!

She was found homeless and pregnant along the side of the road by a nice man took her to his home, where she gave birth to five puppies (who have all found homes). From there she went to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona, and wasn't doing well, in that environment. The Humane Society sent her to a wonderful foster home and then New Hope took her in.

Misty is thriving in her foster home. She is very obedient and knows some basic commands. Misty gets along well with some dogs and is learning about cats.

Tibby is an 11 month old ACD.

She is unilaterally deaf (hearing in left ear only.)

Tibby was an owner surrender due to some aggression issues. She WAS very protective over the females in her home and felt the need to guard against men. Her foster mom has worked with her, extensively, and she is able to walk on leash, sit , stay, down, and "place." Tibby will even walk off leash once she knows you.

Tibby is housebroken and crate trained. She loves to play ball! Tibby will need to be placed in a home where a woman can continue to work with her. Males would take a secondary role in showing her how to love and trust.

Zeva is in foster care with New Hope because she wasn't doing well at the Humane Society in Tucson. The kennel environment caused her stress and made her nervous.

Zeva is thriving in her foster home. She enjoys the company of other dogs and loves to go to the dog park. She is a "velcro" dog and wants to be close to her human and loves to snuggle! She does have some seperation anxiety issues and needs to be kenneled when left alone.

Zeva is working on her manners and already knows sit and down. She is good with kids and other dogs so an active family would be perfect!

***Please contact the Adoption Coordinator now at adopt@newhopecattledogs.com to ADOPT US!...And don't forget to fill out the Adoption Application.

Please make sure to read NHCD's Adoption Policies and Procedures. NHCDogs are not free, an adoption fee is assessed.***

The Truth About Australian Cattle Dogs...

Before we get to the truth, here's a little something to keep with the holiday spirit: Oddee's 10 Worst Christmas Decorations, EVAH!

Truth vs. myth "...and the truth shall prevail..."

There are a number of untruths floating around with regards to the Australian Cattle Dog's personality. I've listed the most common below.

1. Australian Cattle Dogs are destructive.
ACD's are intelligent and active needing both mental and physical
stimulation.If the owner doesn't provide outlets for the dog, the dog will seek
out ways to expend pent up energy.

Like I said, they'll find their own fun....

2. Australian Cattle Dogs are antisocial towards people and other animals.
ACD's can be territorial and protective, as herding dogs these traits are
necessary to do their job. Socializing your ACD will temper the desire to
protect. Conditioning your ACD's protection/guarding instinct to what is
appropriate and the desired level and length of the "alert." should be part of
your training. "No," or "Leave it," could well be one of the most important
things you teach any dog.

3. Australian Cattle Dogs are stubborn.
ACDs are extremely intelligent and fun loving canines with energy to burn!
Sitting, staying, and some other of the other necessary actions for canine good
citizenship and safety are not fun, especially in the midst of a game or in
the heat of the moment. As our dog's guardian it's our responsibility to keep
both our dogs and the public safe. Repetition, consistency and fun help our
ACD's enjoy learning and utilizing their skills!

4. Australian Cattle Dogs are aggressive towards people.
See #2

5. Australian Cattle Dogs are "outside" dogs.
No dog, should live outside without companionship. That includes livestock
guardian dogs. In their case, they have either other dogs for companionship
and/or the livestock.

6. Australian Cattle Dogs are a "one-man dog."
See #2

7. Australian Cattle Dogs are biters.
See #2

8. Australian Cattle Dogs tails should be docked.

NO! NO! NO! NO! ACDs tails should NOT be docked! That's seems to be an American
phenomena. In many countries tail docking is against the law. ACDs have never had
their tales docked and if you run across one that is you have just seen the
product of back yard breeding. There is however a breed of dog known as Australian Stumpy Tailed Cattle Dogs. They are relatively rare in the United States. Don't be fooled by someone
trying to sell you a docked ACD as an ASTCD.

With the exception of the last myth, each of these untruths are solely the responsibility of the owners.

You can find more in-depth questions/facts on New Hope Cattle Dogs Rescue 's FAQ page on their website.

Hmmm... Now how weird is that? These are the same issues and problems you could have with any dog, purebred or mixed, that is not socialized and trained. Any dog, without regard to the breed, is capable of these behaviors. A puppy or dog that is well socialized is less likely to be a fear biter, aggressive or antisocial.

Beyond the basic ACD myths are a lot of myths surrounding ownership of a deaf dog. The Deaf Dog Education Action Fund has a webpage dedicated to dispelling these myths.

Callie and Louie are two great dogs that happen to be deaf. Check out their blog for an idea of how well deaf dogs manage. They will also be featured in the Dogs that Blog 2010 Calendar: ACD Edition.


And one more thing...
Congratulations to the Rolling Dog Ranch Animal Sanctuary, located in Ovando, MT. They are the recipient and winner of GreaterGood.org/The Animal Rescue Site/Petfinder's $100,000 Shelter Challenge! The Rolling dog Ranch and Animal Sanctuary will receive the Grand Prize of a $20,000 grant to help animals.
Other winners are:
Second Prize of a $5,000 grant to help animals:

·Denison City Pound, located in Denison, IA

Third Prize of a $3,000 grant to help animals:

·The Oasis Sanctuary, located in Benson, AZ

Two Most Touching Story Awards, $2,000 grants to help animals:

·Cats Anonymous, located in Orton, ON (Canada), for Winnie's New Life ,

·Greater Chicago Cavalier Rescue, located in Hoffman Estates, IL, for Frankie "Two-Paws" .

Intense?

Oh yes! Cattle dogs can be VERY intense!
Here's Stumpy staring, intently, at absolutely nothing, that I can figure...


The focus and intensity of the Australian Cattle Dog is amazing to watch.


Intensity works for Australian Cattle dogs. And it can work for you, as an owner. These dogs WANT to work for you! They WANT to learn! As owners it is our responsibility to teach them. I find heelers, like all dogs, learn best by keeping lessons fun and positive. ACDs don't take corrections well, in my experience. Stumpy and I blow right by "her" mistakes (which in truth are more likely handler error, on my part.) The legendary stamina, intensity and focus of the ACD allow them to excel in whatever direction you wish to take. It doesn't matter whether it's a driven herding dog, a hard working search and rescue dog, an amazing agility competitor, a running or walking partner or a flying frisbee fetcher! Australian Cattle Dogs do it all, do it well and do it happily, as long as their best friend (you) are doing it with them. And the best part? At the end of the day, they are content to lay next to you, waiting for your next move. I have a theory, that works with any dog, but is especially true for Heelers: a tired heeler is a happy heeler!

New Hope Cattle Dog Rescue has a couple of dogs whose intensity and energy level will make them good candidates for someone with an active lifestyle or that is interested in agility, flyball or any in which activity requiring speed, stamina and tenacity.

Lucas and is a happy go lucky little guy, weighing 25 lbs and is about 1 year old.

He's the product of a hoarding-type of environment. Lucas was found running loose in a big yard with 20 dogs. The previous owners used two garbage can lids to feed the dogs and would dump the food in and the dogs had to fend for themselves. In spite of his beginnings Lucas is a happy and well adjusted boy (a testament to the adaptability of the breed.)
Lucas came into the NHCD Rescue program in November of this year. In a weeks time, with his new foster mom, Lucas has learned to wear a collar, walk on a loose leash, come when he is called and sit in a near perfect recall position.
Lucas does well with two daily walks and enjoys playing with his foster mom's other dog. He's been heartworm and fecal tested, neutered and current is current with all shots.


Hunter is the sweetest, goofiest dog you might ever meet! He's a rompin' and rollin' 1.5 year old neutered male cattle dog. He has lots of energy and enjoys playing with other dogs, playing fetch and running with his foster mom.

Hunter is trained on a gentle leader He's house trained and crate trained, too! He's good with Kids, good with some other dogs and possibly cats.

Please contact the Adoption Coordinator now at adopt@newhopecattledogs.com to ADOPT US!...

Please make sure to read the Adoption Policies and Procedures at the top of this page. And don't forget to fill out the Adoption Application.
NHCDogs are not free, an adoption fee is assessed.

Perhaps, like me, you are unable to bring a heeler into your home at this time. The next best thing would be bringingNorwood, Gus, Callie and Louie (AKA Three Happy Heelers), Velcro, Charlie Daniels, Wyatt Twirp and Ruger and Neve and Stumpyhome, in the form of The Dogs That Blog, ACD Edition, 2010 Calendar. As an added benefit you will be helping to support New Hope Catte Dog Rescue in their effort to provide forever homes for Cattle Dogs in need. Available soon! All proceeds from the Dogs That Blog, ACD Edition, 2010 Calendar will go directly to NHCD Rescue.

We'll keep you posted on it's availability!

Home for the holidays...and forever

The video is cute, but the dog looks lonely to me...


My Christmas (and every day) wishes, in no paricular order:
That no dog is cold, hungry or unloved, ever!
That the human race learns to respect and care for all of creation, YESTERDAY!!!

Last Years Christmas Present
Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
With no thought of the dog outside filling their head.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Knew he was cold, but didn’t care about that.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Figuring the dog was free and into the trash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the luster of midday to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But Santa Claus – his eyes full of tears.
He unchained the dog, once so lively and quick,
Last years Christmas present, now thin and sick.
More rapid than eagles he called the dog’s name.
And the dog ran to him, despite all his pain;



“Now, DASHER! Now, DANCER! Now, PRANCER and VIXEN!
On, COMET! On CUPID! On, DONNER and BLITZEN!
To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!
Let’s find this dog a home where he’ll be loved by all”

I knew in an instant there would be no gifts this year,
For Santa Claus had made one thing quite clear,
The gift of a dog is not just for the season,
We had gotten the pup for all the wrong reasons.
In our haste to think of giving the kids a gift
There was one important thing that we missed.
A dog should be family, and cared for the same
You don’t give a gift, then put it on a chain.
And I heard him exclaim as he rode out of sight,
“You weren’t given a gift! You were given a life!”

From our house to yours, we wish you the merriest of holidays, filled with love and laughter. We hope the New Year brings good health and success in all your endeavors.

Gratefully,
Cyndi and Stumpy


THIS JUST IN!!!
Quite possibly the funniest thing you will see this holiday season. Created by Nigel, of Life With Dogs fame, for your listening and viewing pleasure.
Without any further ado, I give you Nigel Buggers and his "12 dog Days of Christmas" (it takes a minute to load, but it is totally worth the wait!)

Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io

Save File: The 12 Dog Days of Christmas final cut 2.swf

Oh rats, the embedding code isn't working. You will have to head over to Life With Dogs and check itout yourself!

Cattle Dogs

Australian Cattle Dogs (ACD) aka Queensland and Blue or Red Heelers are one of dogs listed in the top 10 of the smartest dogs. While some may call them stubborn and willful I attribute those opinions to the fact that they can be too smart for their own good.


Because of their intelligence, energy and work ethic Cattle Dogs excel in many activities. They can be seen participating successfully in agilty, flyball, search and rescue,frisbee and of course herding.
















In the world of dogs they are unsurpassed as companions. Their loyalty and love know no bounds. They are attention seeking clowns and have the ability to bring laughter to the most somber of audiences.
(Grab some kleenex!)


They were fully recognized, by the AKC, in 1980. They gained popularity after being featured in movies and on TV programs including "The Road Warrior," "The Last of The Dogmen," "Joey," Scattering Dad," "Babe (the mean, sheep stealing dogs,)" "Brokeback Mountain," and "Inside Edition." (see more celebrity ACDs here and here.)




With popularity came backyard breeders and the ACD population in shelters exploded. People would bring these ultra smart and energetic dogs home only to find the dogs needed more time and attention than they were willing to give.

The BYBs are notorious for not screening for genetic disorders and breeding indiscriminately. Two common problems resulting in even more ACDs needing rescuing are Progressive Retinal Atrophy and deafness. Fortunately, ACDs are intelligent and adaptable and thrive, in spite of their special needs, in the right home.

New Hope Cattle Dogs' mission is helping discarded, stray and unwanted Australian Cattle Dogs/Blue Heelers/Red Heelers/Queensland Heelers (ACD's) that need a second chance to find a forever home and provide education and training to the public.

New Hope has many dogs in need of forever homes. Dundee and Eva are looking for homes. You can view more ACDs in need here.

Dundee had a pretty rough start. He was hit by a car when he was younger, was terrified of cars. A raised a hand caused him to flinch.

A nice family saw how sweet he was and took him in, but soon realized that they didn't have the resources to help Dundee recover. They contacted New Hope and Dundee's foster mom's patience helped him to become the dog he is today.

Today, Dundee is a well and well trained boy and has learned all his manners. Dundee is very affectionate and wants to be at your side, whenever possible. He's got great manners with other dogs and enjoys socializing at the dog park. He loves going on walks and is really good on a leash. Dundee likes adults and teenagers, is good with other female dogs but NO cats!

Eva was pulled me off the euthanasia list at Maricopa County Animal Care & Control by volunteers from New Hope Cattle Dogs Rescue. Eva was going to euthanized because she is sight impaired. NHCD Rescue took Eva to an eye specialist and they verified that she can see movement and shadows and she only has about 10 percent of her sight.

Eva has adjusted quite well and once she is familiar with her surroundings, you wouldn't even know she was sight impaired. Cattle dogs are very resilient and adapt well to new environments and Eva is no exception.

Eva is a total love bug and will follow you everywhere you go. Eva gets along with other dogs and will greet every human with a gentle nudge to get attention. She is approximately 3 years old, a 30 pound tub of love. She needs eye drops 3 times a day, so will need a home where someone can see to that need. Eva is very low maintenance and low key. She is good with Kids, other dogs and cats!

Please contact the Adoption Coordinator now at adopt@newhopecattledogs.com to ADOPT US!...And don't forget to fill out the Adoption Application.***Please make sure to read the Adoption Policies and Procedures at the top of this page. NHCD adoptees are not free, an adoption fee is assessed.***


Norwood's assistant is hard at work putting the finishing touches on the Dogs that Blog: ACD 2010 Calendar. I hope Norwood will give her some time off for the holidays and maybe an extra treat or two!

New Hope Cattle Dogs

Stumpy is speaking out and modeling to benefit New Hope Cattle Dog Rescue. we want to tell you a little more about their operation, the dogs needing homes and Cattle Dogs in general. New Hope has this information on their website but we want to feature the dogs, here.

There are so many great dogs listed at New Hope. The volunteers, foster homes and the dog themselves work REALLY hard at preparing the dogs and adopters for their forever homes. I'm listing the dogs in alphabetical order, a couple at a time. These dogs are located in Arizona. New Hope has affiliated rescues in Colorado and Arkansas.

This is Brando.


He's a little over a year old and about 40 lbs. His mama was a red heeler.
This is Brandi, Brando's mom.


He's a very sweet boy who loves the dog park and going for walks, runs, or hikes. Brando is house trained and crate trained. He knows basic commands like, sit, stay, and leave it. Brando is calm in the house, but when it's playtime, he's ready!

Brando is afraid of kids so not he is not recommended for kids of any age. He is good with other dogs and good with cats!

Please contact the Adoption Coordinator now at adopt@newhopecattledogs.com to inquire about Brando! And don't forget to fill out the Adoption Application.

Cheyanne is about 5 years old and was dumped by her family at a local shelter. She needed eye surgery to remove a bad eye and repair the other eye. Cheyanne is recovering nicely. Cheyanne uses her whiskers and ears and can only see dark and light and only far away things. She's as sweet as can be and just want to lay by her person and be loved.

Cheyanne seems to get along with other dogs OK and would probably be fine with cats as I can't see them very well. She came from a home with children so she's OK with that also.

Cheyanne will need eye drops for the rest of her life but they are not too expensive. If you would like to meet her please fill out our adoption application and we can do a home check and make sure you are a good match for Cheyanne. Kisses and wags Cheyanne.

***Please make sure to read New Hope's Adoption Policies and Procedures at the top of this page. An adoption fee is assessed.***

New Hope has a FAQ page that can answer just about any question you might have with regards to adopting and owning a cattle dog. In my humble opinion the single most important thing to know is that cattle dogs, like any herding breed of dog, are independent thinkers. They were and should be bred to use their brains. The short and sweet of it is that cattle dogs NEED consistent mental and physical stimulation. If their people don't provide stimulation they are going to find their own and it's not going to be pretty.



Many of you know that although I gave Stumpy a home, she was the one that rescued me. What you may not know is that for the three years before Stumpy found me I was suffering from panic attacks, black outs and agoraphobia, to the point where I rarely left my home. Only a few close and unrelenting family members and friends were allowed into my home. I shut myself off from everything and everyone I loved.

When I made the trip to get Stumpy, it was the first time I had left my comfort zone in a very long time. Literally, Stumpy was responsible for my journey to sanity; more so than any doctor, shrink or medication. Stumpy found me in the same condition I found her: frightened to the point of immobility.

I realized that I had a responsibility to teach Stumpy that people and the world, in general, is a wonderful place. Our journey to rediscover the world began together.

Dogs Deserve Freedom posted an awesome idea to help shelters that anyone can do. head over there to read about it!