I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love.

For me they are the role model for being alive.

~ Gilda Radner

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

GoD -n- DoG



"...GOD AND DOG is a phenomenon. First appearing on YouTube, the video of Wendy Francisco's charming animated illustrations and moving song tells of the unconditional love of both God and Dog..."

You can visit Wendy Francisco's website for more information with regard to her book and other offerings.

*Blogger issues are back. I'll be back in business soon, I hope.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Rescue Me Week Pupdate! Willie the Briard

Thanks, Grampa J!


The Briard,formerly known as
but now known as Willie, has been adopted!

I posted Willie in honor of my sister, Pam's Birthday.
Pam immediately sent out emails to the Briard internet network .

She received the news yesterday.

"Last Wednesday Pam posted that there was a Briard in a high kill shelter in Los Angeles. I immediately inquired about him. Everything was going against this poor guy. The small Briard community here along with a small dog rescue in my neighborhood came together to help him. Some people that I do not know went to the shelter, took pictures, and sent them to Jane. He was a Briard Wannabe with cropped ears!!!! The odds were not good for him because AGGRESSIVE was written on his kennel. My daughter told me to post his story on Face Book which I did. There was immediate response.

There are real ANGELS in this world. A lovely lady came forward who already has two Briards and an Old English Sheep Dog and a cat. She didn't care if it was a Briard mix or that he had been labeled AGGRESSIVE. She went down to visit him on Sunday and found out that he was not AGGRESSIVE but just scared. The dog let her pet him, wagged his tail continuously, and even gave her a kiss! She found out that animal control had found him chained to a fence with only a 2' chain, matted to the skin, and covered with his own feces. He was malnourished and had been in the shelter since October 25th due to a pending court case. He had be labeled AGGRESSIVE out of fear when they went to chip him down. Although 5 years old, he probably was never groomed. With AGGRESSIVE on his kennel his chances of adoption were NOT good!

This ANGEL of a woman adopted him this afternoon. He will be picked up tomorrow after he is neutered. He will be going to a lovely home for rehab and loving care and then the ANGEL will find him a forever loving home.

BTW, one of the kind ladies on FACE BOOK named him WILLIE. Wishing WILLIE a wonderful future full of love and caring."





Rescue Me Week project.
Is a celebration of Mayzie's Grampa J; his life and love of animals.


ADOPT! Don't shop!!!





* some names have been changed to protect privacy.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Book Review: The Art of Racing in the Rain

My sister, Deb, suggested I read this book. She wrote, "Definitely put "The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein on your list. Great book… you'll never look at your dog without wondering what she/he REALLY thinks…"


"The Art of Racing in the Rain," is told by Enzo, a mixed breed dog of mostly unknown origins. Enzo is a philosopher and bases his theories on what he's learned watching television, car racing and personal experience.

Because this is a story about life, more than a story about a dog or racing, just about anyone can relate to Enzo and his family. But, if you've had conversations with your dogs you'll love this story. Stein has crafted a story that holds your interest while inducing laughter and tears.

Enzo can tell you a little bit about his story in the video, below.



Just a few of Enzo's philosophies:
"The true hero is flawed. The true test of a champion is not whether he can triumph, but whether he can overcome obstacles-- preferably of his own making-- in order to triumph. A hero without a flaw is of no interest to an audience or to the universe, which, after all, is based on conflict and opposition, the irresistible force meeting the unmovable object."

“There is no dishonor in losing the race. There is only dishonor in not racing because you are afraid to lose.”

“My soul has learned what it came to learn, and all the other things are just things. We can't have everything we want. Sometimes, we simply have to believe.”


It's rumored that a movie, based on the book, is scheduled for release in 2012 and will star Patrick Dempsey.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Stumpy has been placed on adminstrative leave

and suspended without pay
For the second time, she allegedly ripped my camera out of my hands.



The first incident occurred in August of 2010. She was in a sit/stay while I was taking some pictures. She jumped at a rabbit and knocked the camera out of my hands. The view finder was partially smashed, but the camera was still usable.



Saturday, we were sitting in the car at Snickers' house, waiting for the gate to be closed so Snickers could come out to play. When Snickers came through the door, Stumpy could not wait for her release and barrelled through me, knocking the camera from my hands. This time the camera was broken for good.



She's claiming innocence and cites a history of harassment. I suspect if she's found responsible, the replacement camera is going to cost her many months of treats and toys and maybe another couple of weeks in boot camp.

I've actually been saving for a new camera, for quite some time. The purchase never makes the top of the priority list. I'm going to have to get something less expensive now.

What are you using? What do you like about it? What Don't you like about it? Any suggestions for a decent, under $200, point and shoot?


* The pictures in this post were taken with a video camera.

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Rescue Me Pupdate

Dry those leaky eyes!
Lauper, one of the 2 dogs in a high kill shelter, has been adopted!!!


55,954 doggies saved and counting...

ADOPT! Don't shop!!!

** According to the Dogs In Danger website, Lauper was actually adopted on October 27, before I posted him for Mayzie's Rescue Me Week.

Friday, November 11, 2011

Mayzie's Rescue Me Week, Day 5: Veteran's Day

We couldn't let today pass without thanking the veterans of our armed forces and currently serving military personnel who sacrifice so much for the principles that make it possible to live in freedom.

With that in mind,
I'd like to highlight two organizations
that help our service men and women keep their dogs safe while deployed
and
help to find soldiers' pets foster homes while they serve.

If you can't foster, perhaps you can search craigslist and kijii (ebay classifieds) for soldiers needing homes for their pets due to deployment. When I find a soldiers' pet in need I send them these two websites, with a note of gratitude for their service. I've received some great responses. Many don't know these organizations provide this service.

Today's search turned up
Major and and his sister Fayth


Both dogs are 9 years old and have been together their whole life. Their dad gave them the best of care and all the love one could imagine. Their owner was deployed and there was no place for them to go. He had only hours to find a rescue that could help. With the economy and foreclosures its not easy to be placed these days, especially being Rottweilers. They are big lovable babies in need of a forever home. They do not have to be adopted together but if you have room in your heart and home that would be great.

Major and Fayth are available through Those Left Behind Foundation located In Las Vegas, NV
(702)768-8523.
Both have been spayed/neutered, are current on their vaccinations and have been checked for parasites.



Thanks to Grampa J,
My Dad,
all of our veterans,
those serving now
and the families who love and support them.
Your service and sacrifice is appreciated!

We're still celebrating Mayzie's Grampa's life and love of animals by pawticipating in her

ADOPT! Don't shop!!!

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Mayzie's Rescue Me Week, Day 4

We're still celebrating Mayzie's Grampa's life and love of animals by pawticipating in her
Rescue Me Week project.

Not a day goes by when I think of Alf, his rescue story, those that helped him on his way to his happily furever home and the love and joy he shares with everyone he knows. Of course I had to look for Bernese Mountain Dogs in need.

Meet Bernie
Bernie is a very handsome approximately 9 year old Bernese Mountain Dog. He gets along well with other dogs and children. He rides well in a car. If you are looking for a gentle giant that you want to make a part of your family, look no further than Bernie.
Bernie is neutered and up-to-date with routine shots

Bernie is available for adoption through North Beach Paws, a no kill shelter, located in Ocean Shores, WA.

You can contact North Beach Paws by calling 360-289-9694 or via E-mail baushaus@coastaccess.com for an adoption application. E-mail debalaldeb@gmail.com for more photos of this handsome boy. An approved application clears the way for you to adopt if its a match when you meet. Please put Bernie in the subject box of e-mail inquiries. Become a NORTH BEACH PAWS fan on facebook.

Yeah, I couldn't pick just one...

Bernie and Beau are Bernese Mountain Dog brothers, available for adoption in Gulfport, Mississippi through Lone Star Bernese Mountain Dog Rescue.


These brothers were relinquished by a gentleman who could no longer care for them when he lost his job. He wanted the two brothers to stay together.


Bernie and Beau are perfect southern gentlemen. They love other dogs, are house trained and well behaved. They are playful and crave a daily walk. Both boys are neutered, up to date on vaccinations and heartworm prevention. While they are each about 100#, it doesn't stop them from being lap sitters and cuddlebugs. Can you provide a home for them? Please contact us Require fenced yard.
Both boys are Neutered, up-to-date with routine shots and house trained.

For more information please contact the Lone Star Bernese Mountain Dog Rescue Inc, Double Oak, TX at 817-430-2469

ADOPT! Don't shop!!!

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Mayzie's Rescue Me Week, Day 3 (and HAPPY BIRTHDAY to two of my favorite S'tars!)

Beside honoring Maizie's Grampa I'd like to honor two of my favorite S'tars birthdays
(I am blessed to have 4 wonderful sisters and one amazing brother. They are all my favorites!)
by featuring dogs of their special breeds.

My sister Pam, whose birthday was yesterday, loves her Briard, Booker.
Briards are not a common breed. But there are those needing rescueing. desperately in this case.

Size: Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg) Sex: Male

There's not much information available on this guy. The fact that he's stripped leads me to believe he was in pretty rough shape at intake. The way that he's standing makes me think he may be a senior.
This pup is located at City of Los Angeles North Central Animal Shelter,
a high kill shelter in Cypress Park. He's available through LA Animal Services

My sister Deb's birthday is today. She has two chihuahuas, Moe and Molly.

Deb tells me that chihuahuas are not a common sight in shelters, on the east coast.
That is just the opposite, here, in the southwest. It seems to me that about every other dog you see is at least part chihuahua.

I scoped out the chihuahuas at Lied, a high kill shelter in Las Vegas.Their wards are adopted through The Animal Foundation. Currently, the Animal Foundation lists 75 chihuahuas available for adoption.

Meet Seth

Again, there's not much information. He's an adult, male and tri-colored.
Adoption fees for Seth include his first series of vaccines, neutering, microchip identification a complimentary five-pound bag of Science Diet pet food, and list of participating veterinary clinics that will provide a complimentary wellness checkup with your receipt.

ADOPT! Don't shop!!!

We're helping Mayzie to celebrate her Grampa's life and love of animals by pawticipating in her Rescue Me Week project.


Dear Wonderful S'tars
Happy Every Day!
Love,
me

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Mayzie's Rescue Me Week, Day 2

For today's rescue I searched Dogs in Danger, a site where kill shelters feature dogs on limited time. Once again, I used the same criteria I use when looking for the fmaily member Stumpy and I will add to our pack, when the time is right.

The only thing Lauper and my search criteria have in common is the breed. He is a beautiful, young sheperd mix looking for your home!

Lauper is at the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control Center (MCACC), a high kill shelter located in Phoenix, AZ. Lauper is scheduled for euthenasia within two days time. Because of the high intake, the schedule could change at any time. Any animal at this shelter can be euthanized after 72 hours, and many are, due to medical, attitude/personality/behavioral, breed and/or space issues.

Lauper #a3053137
Breed: German Shepherd (mix breed)
Age: Young adult
Gender: Male
Size: Large
Shelter Information: Maricopa County Animal Care & Control - West
2500 S 27th Ave
Phoenix, AZ
Shelter dog ID: A3053137
Contacts: N/A
Phone: N/A
Name: Adoptions
email: VISIT THE SHELTER ASAP!

Maricopa County Animal Care and Control receives over 150 animals every day. Over the past year, more people are choosing to relinquish their pets into our care. Despite this challenge, MCACC remains committed to ending euthanasia of adoptable pets in Maricopa County.

The listings on this site are maintained by a small group of hard-working shelter volunteers. Due to the volume of animals received each day, delays may occur in updating our list of dogs. We cannot guarantee that this dog will be available when you visit the shelter, but we CAN guarantee that there will be many other wonderful dogs waiting for a second chance at life.

IT IS NOT POSSIBLE FOR US TO KNOW AN EXACT EUTHANASIA DATE FOR THIS DOG. MCACC does not euthanize for time or space. Euthanasia decisions are made if and when an animal becomes ill or behaviorally unsound. Therefore, all dogs are listed on this site with estimated dates. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THIS DOGS STATUS CAN CHANGE AT ANY MOMENT. ACT QUICKLY IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADOPTING. YOU MUST VISIT THE SHELTER as soon as possible. Please remember to bring the dogs ID number with you.

We are open for adoptions from 11:00 am to 5:30 pm 7 days a week for your convenience.

Thank you for helping us to save this dogs life.

MCACC also has a PetFinder page

We're helping Mayzie to celebrate her Grampa's life and love of animals by pawticipating in her Rescue Me Week project.

Friday, November 4, 2011

Baby, it's cold outside

Stumpy and I are usually out the door at first light. Stumpy's usually the first one to the door. I may need some encouragement, but not much since I love the mornings. Sunrise took place at 6:57am. Normally we would have been out around 6:30.

7:22am

"Don't make me!"

At about 7:30, after I take a couple pictures she rousts herself

She just stood there and stared at me as if to say, "If you go out, I'll go out. But, you have to go first."

Then decided it was not yet time, better to just watch from the window

"What? you don't seriously think I am going out in that cold, do you?"

Finally, at 8:10
"I'm ready, now!"

But ONLY because I had put my shoes on.

By the way, at 7:30 the temperature was about 54F. With the winds gusting to about 20mph so the "real feel" was 49F. NOT that cold.









Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Stumpy Adds A New Title To Her Resume

This is what the Snoopervisor of RV Maintenance looks like

Until she looks like this

That, of course, leads to this

I'm quite sure she is paying attention in case maintenance involves a treat of some sort

We haven't taken Theo, the RV, out at all except for a spin around the block.  I still have to get her into the shop. When I know all systems are go, we can plan from there! I'm guessing that our first real excursion will be in January.  We'll head south to Quartzsite, AZ for some warmer temperatures and the annual Rubber Tramp Rendezvous for a month-long 4 legged pawty and meet up with all the friends we made at  last year's gathering.

In other news, Stumpy thinks we can all get behind this grassroots movement

Monday, October 24, 2011

Sunday's Snooze (#22)

Was not very comfortable

Both sides of Stumpy's cushion have been decimated.

First by UV rays and then by cactus wren and rock squirrels.

Stumpy was not pleased

Fortunately the situation has now been remedied.

Monday, October 17, 2011

ABC's "My Dog Is Better Than Your Dog" contest

Yesterday kicked off ABC's dog versus dog competition with Maggie, the golden doodle, (I dunno, she looks black to me) pitted against Ruger, the Australian cattle pup. Only one can dog advance from the first round.



It's too late to vote for a winner in yesterday's contest. But all this week dog's will be competing. You can vote for the winner in each round on ABC's FaceBook page I know, I know...another facebook deal... it just ain't right

Video raises doggy entrapment questions in Kingman

"KINGMAN - The Mohave County Sheriff's Office says claims made on a YouTube video about an Animal Control officer attempting to lure a dog out of its yard so it can be impounded are untrue...."

Stumpy and I live outside the Kingman area, but within Mohave County Animal Control's jurisdiction.

I know being an ACO is a really tough job. I also know that there are hundreds of feral dogs dying in the desert and numerous cases of animal hoarding occurring within plain sight. The county and the animals would be better served if the ACOs put some effort into those problems.

Was there really a need for this ACO to even get out of her truck?

What do you think?


I think the narration was over the top, seeking a hysterical response from the community and viewers. I think the video is not of a high enough quality to judge the ACO's actions. The case was dismissed in court, and according to Guardian Angels of Pets (GAP) the dismissal was due to the video.

I think ACOs should be out dealing with REAL problems and not harassing people whose animals are clearly well cared for. I think the owners of these dogs should invest in a better gate. The current gate is unsafe and asking for trouble.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

The Dog Park

A new, original web series on Animal Planet.
"Welcome to Washington Square Dog Park in New York City, a place where alliances, flirtations and betrayals play out. Five people have come together to make the dog park a better place for their pets. But that's only the beginning of the story..."


Tuesday, October 11, 2011

The Berner Report: October 11, 2011

In the words of his mom,
"Alphie is WUNDERBAR!"

"He is one smart, active, happy little guy. He loves his toys."

"He is very loved and has many friends at the park."

"The cart was at Best Buy. They said if I can fit him in it, he can come inside. Well, good idea at the time. Alphie thought otherwise and jumped ship."

"He has completely rescued us... We absolutely adore him."

Alphie's mom and I talked on the phone the other day and for all he's been through, he is an unbelievably well adjusted dog. His separation anxiety is almost non existent. When he's left home his biggest crime is removing the cushions from the couch. He can be seen, at the window, waiting for the return of those he loves.  Alphie loves kids and playing at the park with other dogs.  He's allowed off-leash now.

I'll forever be grateful to our furiends in blog land who supported and encouraged me, throughout this journey; for the people at the Bernese Mountain Dog Club who networked to find Alphie this wonderfully loving home. And for Alphie's family, for opening the hearts and home to him, and for keeping me in the loop and connected.

I know that every day and every night Alf is living and loving happily ever after and dreaming the sweet dreams that every dog deserves.


If you're a new visitor to our blog, The Berner (now known as Alphonso Bernard Jacob Scout Billy Bob Berner)was a semi-feral dog trying to survive in the Mohave Desert.

Through the Pawer of the Paw, Alf has a family of his own. He's living the good life, well-loved and happily ever after, in sunny SoCal.

The Berner's story can be read in the posts listed below, in chronological order. Or Alf's story can be read by clicking his picture on my side bar.

We're still having multiple problems with blogger.  Comments are enabled, but...  Also, I have no idea where all those links came from.