Tanner Trains the Family

Mommy's New Truck

2012-03-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Remember Big Red? This was Mommy's car for the past 7 years. We took it a lot of places and we even used it to pull the camper.

Well, one day last week, Mommy and Daddy left with Big Red and they came back with

This:

It does not have a name yet, but Mommy thinks "Mocha" fits well.

After all, that is the name of it's color

For several days, I have only been able to see it out the window.

But this morning, I got to go and see it up close.

I was so excited!!!

Mommy took me around to the place where

I usually got into Big Red.

She opened the door for me and I was thrilled to see all the room!!!!

Mommy didn't have to tell me twice! I climbed right in!

I was eager to check it out!

Look, Mommy, I can get the whole way in and then turn around!

Mommy already had my barrier net in place.

But I could easily see over it.

In fact, I can pretty much see everything!

I can even look out the window!

Now, don't worry. For those of you concerned about my safety, Mommy is getting me a Trolly line to keep me safe. She just had not planned to have me in the new truck till Thursday, after it got all it's wonderful, doggy proof coating. But I had a groomer appointment this morning and she needed to take me a day early. The next time you see me in the truck, I will be safe and secure, AND HAPPY!!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Wordless Wednesday -- Where Am I?

2012-02-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

Check back tomorrow for the answer!! I think you'll like it as much as I do!!

Doggy Kisses,
Tanner

P.S. Happy Leap Day! Not sure what it is, but Mommy says its special!!

Rock the Food Dish

2012-02-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

I have a lot of fun when I eat! Mommy loves the way I have learned to use my paws to get my food out. Here is a video she shot of me having supper the other day.

Don't worry if the sound drops out. MJ was having a conversation and Mommy didn't want that to distract from me, so she muted the microphone.

Every time I use my right paw, my food dish makes a "shaky-shake" sound and Mommy laughs.
She thinks I am very creative!

Doggy Kisses,
Tanner

I Love My Food Toy

2012-02-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, I do not eat my food from a bowl. My behaviorist wants me to work for my meals, so I eat my food from food toys.

I roll them all over the house. As the food dumps out, I stop and eat. It is a lot of fun for me and for Mommy. She thinks I get silly sometimes when I eat. I have developed a fun rocking technique that helps me to get lots of food out at one time.

Well, yesterday at lunch (yes, I get lunch and dinner) I waited to eat from my toy until after Mommy had finished her soup. I had to make sure that I did not miss getting a treat from Mommy's meal.

But I did not manage to finish my meal before Mommy was ready to go back to the work room.

Mommy told me to bring my toy downstairs. So, I picked it up and headed for the door. Down the stairs I went. Right into the work room. Mommy thought I was going to eat, but I had other ideas.

I decided that my food toy and I should curl up on the futon and take a nap. Afterall, I have all day to eat. And there will be more food for supper. I just have to remind Mommy where I left my toy!

Doggy Kisses,
Tanner

More Positions

2012-02-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Mommy says I sleep in some silly positions. We have posted photos of me sleeping in my favorite position... On my back. But sometimes, I need a change.

This is how I sleep in my space beside Mommy's bed!

She says I can't be comfortable, but I am!

Sometimes, I even snore!!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday -- Please?

2012-02-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

I don't know which I like better...

Whipped Cream or ...

Ice cream!

Doggy Kisses,
Tanner

The Red Bag

2012-02-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Every day, after our playtime in the back yard, Mommy goes out for a while. I get to rest in my crate while she is gone. She says she goes some place called "the gym." I am not sure what that is, but I know sometimes she is gone longer than other times. When she is gone the long times, she usually brings some bags home with her.

Usually, the bags have stuff for the people and they get put in the kitchen.

But the other day, this red bag came in

and got left in the chair.

When I got out of my crate, I went over for a sniff

and it smelled promising.

The first thing Mommy took out of the bag was this silver bag that smelled really yummy!!!

Mommy says these treats have the same name as me! She often calls me "Goober" when I get silly!

Then, I got to look inside the bag!

Are those for me, Mommy?

These were the next things to come out of the bag. Mommy got two the same color. She always gets two matching toys to take in the backyard. That way, I don't get a preference.

Mommy and I played with these new toys for a while.

They flew a bit differently than my tennis balls!

And they are a bit harder to pick up!

But once I got hold of them, I had a lot of fun carrying them around the yard.

I carried them all around and shook them to make sure they were dead!

Sometimes, I just dropped them and looked at Mommy to see what she would do next!

And, I was always ready to chase more!

This is what my new toys looked like after one play session!

I think I made them my own.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Pawsome Blogger Award

2012-02-17T15:48:00.001-05:00

Thanks so much Freddie and Gloria at Bassetmomma!!

I just found out, they awarded me the Pawsome Blogger award!!

Now, it is my turn to pass it on to 8 other blogs that bring us love, laughs and furiendship. I am passing this award on to:
BZ Training
Cowspot Dogs
Four Legged Views
Court of Tails
Miley's Daily Scoop
Snoopy's Dog Blog
2browndawgs Blog
Suka's Just Sayin'

Reading all of your blogs brings a smile to my face! You are all Pawsome in My book!!

Doggy Kisses,
Tanner

Where to put my head

2012-02-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

Mommy and I go out to play every morning. Daddy usually comes along too! We play really hard!

When we come in, I like to get a drink then relax.

Today, I found a unique place to rest my head!

Doggy Kisses,
Tanner

Will You Be Mine?

2012-02-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

Taking it easy

2012-02-13T13:01:00.003-05:00

It has been so cold outside lately. I have been out to play, but mostly, I have just been

Taking It Easy!

This is how Daddy and I spent yesterday afternoon!

I got lots and lots of nice warm pets!

Hope you are all staying warm wherever you are.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Pretties

2012-02-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

Mommy has been working really hard lately!

She has been designing so many new dog collars!

Her theme this month has been Awareness Ribbons!

These are for the little guys!

And these are for the medium sized puppies!

Remember, these are the ones that I tried to get in of the photo shoot!

And these are the ones for the Big Doggies! This one is for Kels Doggie, Moocow!

And, believe it or not, this one is for me! Mommy says it is for Animal Abuse Prevention Awareness! I can't wear it till April. That is the month for that ribbon. I can't wait to wear my new collar. It is just too big for this little guy!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday -- SIT!

2012-02-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

Well, It looked comfy to me!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Saturday

2012-02-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

This is what my backyard looked like on Saturday afternoon!

The weather man said it would happen. But Mommy and I didn't believe him!

I guess we should have!

But, as you can tell, we had fun playing anyway!

I chased the ball!

Even Daddy got in on the fun!

Hope it doesn't turn to Smud too quickly!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

What Mommy Brought Home

2012-02-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

On Friday, our town finally got a fabric store, again! Mommy said we had one before. Long, long before I came to live with them. But they closed. The closest one to us meant Mommy had to drive at least half an hour. I hated to have her go away to go there.

But now, we have one right here in town. Mommy can get there much faster and get back to me faster.

She went to the first day and this is what she brought home:

I think I am in trouble!!! Look at that Lab on the right! I'm not sure what Mommy is thinking.

I know that my first jacket got torn when I was attacked. But, I thought the one that she bought to replace it was just fine.

I guess Mommy has other ideas.

I'll keep you posted.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

No More Matts

2012-02-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

I finally got a bath yesterday! I know for some of you, this is the ultimate indiginty. Something you really hate to do. The Paw Police are your enemy. But I have to say, I was well overdue for my bath.

Because I got hurt on the 15th, I was not able to keep my monthly appointment for grooming. Mommy had to wait till I got my stitches out the reschedule. Then, my beloved groomer was busy until yesterday.

I was a matted, muddy, long-nailed mess.

My beautiful "girly curls" were all knotted.

And the fur under my ear was tangled too!

And let's not even talk about the matts that had formed around my injury site.

This is Candy! She is my groomer's dog. She hates to get her picture taken. But she is always nice to me, so Mommy took a "shot".

My groomer lady let me out of my crate and told me Mommy was here.

I went running to the gate. See my new, festive bandana?? It sparkles!

My groomer still needed to trim my paw hair. I don't like the dryer much.

So she waited till Mommy was here to distract me. It didn't help much.

As you can tell, I still would not stay very still.

When we got home, Mommy took photos of my matt-less ears.

This is the side away from my owies! My hair is shorter, but not tangled.

And this is the side with the scabs. Look, Mommy, NO Matts!!!

And, my hair is starting to grow back!

They are even gone from the outside of my ear!!!

Mommy is happy!!! I am happy to be home!!! I guess the only one who isn't happy is the Matts. They don't have a place to hang out anymore!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

The Photo Shoot

2012-02-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, my Mommy has a business making hand beaded dog and cat collars. She makes lots and lots and lots of collars.

These are some of Mommy's latest collars.

She is doing a selection of Awareness Ribbon collars now.

Mommy sells both the finished collars and the patterns for the collars. She has a shop on line and she also sells some locally.

Mommy takes lots of photos of the collars that she makes. And sometimes, she uses some really cute models.

The other day, Mommy was using this little lady to take photos. And she put her on my futon!

I had to get involved! Afterall, she is a stuffie! And aren't all stuffies for me??

And she is on my futon!!! MY Futon!

But I guess not all of the stuffies in the house are for me. These Doggies are all off limits too.

Mommy keeps these doggies way up high,

so I won't even be tempted

After all, this is what I do to stuffies.

I don't think she wants her models to end up like this.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Wordless Wednesday 2-1-12

2012-02-01T09:57:00.001-05:00

Mommy says "A picture is worth a thousand words". I think this one says it all!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Life in the Swamp

2012-01-31T06:00:00.000-05:00

Life in the Swamp!

This is what my back yard looked like the other day!

We have been getting SOOO much rain that we can almost swim in the yard!

This is what I looked like when I came in from playing.

Yes, Mommy let me out in the mud. She has to. I NEED the exercise Every Day!!! Rain or shine, we are outside.

Our biggest problem right now is that our outside hose is not working. Mommy needs to find some way to try to get me clean.

My paws are so muddy! Mommy has been using a wet towel to try to get the top layer off!

But there is just SOOO much mud on my underside!

This is my front flank.

And my back flank!

And my nose!!

I am a muddy mess!!!

The good news is, I am getting a bath on Thursday!!! And these icky mats are going to be gone too!

Update on my recovery

As I mentioned last week, I got a clean bill of health from my vet. Dr. A said that my wound is healing very well. Here is what they looked like this weekend.

And the news that seems to be making Mommy and Daddy smile the most is this: the dog that hurt me is not longer living in our neighborhood. The family that he lived with decided that he was not a good fit for them and they have found him a new place to live. Now I can relax and play again.

Hope you all had a great weekend,

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

What I did on my Gotcha Day

2012-01-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

Birthday Wishes!

Mommy says that is what you are supposed to say to people! I personally call mine a Bark Day! But my Hu-brother MJ wants his to be a Birthday!

Today, I want to wish him a happy 22nd Birthday!

He is a great Hu-brother! And I hope he has a great Day today!!

Gotcha Day!

Saturday was my first "Gotcha Day"! I was not sure what to expect, but Mommy seemed really happy and she promised me some fun. So....

Well, the day started like every other day. Mommy and I had cuddle time, we had breakfast, and I sat down and waited for Daddy to share his last bite of banana with me. It was just like any other day! Until....

Mommy put my harness on me and asked me if I wanted to go for a car ride!! We didn't go too far in the car. Just right across the street to my favorite pet store.

Daddy checked inside to make sure there were not too many doggies in the store. We were really lucky. Because they had just opened, we had the place to ourselves.

Mommy let me look around and sniff anywhere I wanted.

She even let me over by the toy rack. And she kept asking me what I liked! Was I going to get to take something home?

There were so many wonderful things, I just could not decide. Of course, the balls caught my attention, but Mommy said we had plenty of those. She wanted me to get an indoor toy!

While I sniffed in the corner,

Daddy did some looking on the high racks.

He called Mommy and me over to see something he thought I might like.

And boy, did I like it!!! I started to play with it right there in the store!

Mommy said we had to pay for it first. Oh, yes, and the bag of dog food! You can never have too much dog food!

Knowing what I can do to a toy, Mommy wanted to take a photo of the toy before she really let me play with it!

Then, I got to play!

I carried it around!

I shook it and shook it!!

Then, I took a nap! I played so hard, I thought my new toy might need a break!

After my nap, I went back to chewing!

I had a lot of fun on my first "Gotcha Day!" And my new toy is still relatively in one piece. Although it is missing some stuffing. Thanks, Mommy and Daddy for a great day! Can't wait to do it all again next year!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Gotcha Day!

2012-01-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is my "Gotcha Day"! It is the day Mommy and Daddy came to get me from the place where I had been living with my fur-mom and my fur-sister. It was a bit of a scarry day for me, but it lead to me being so happy.

To celebrate, Mommy and I want to share some photos of me when I arrived at my new home.

Here I am with Mommy on my first day in their house!

I was quite the cuddly fur-ball.

Mommy and Daddy made sure I had lots of toys to play with. Look how tiny those toys are!

I even had a white rope toy!! It did't stay white for long!

I was a bit shy that day! This table was a great place to hide!

But one thing that has not changed about me.... I still love to play in the snow! And I still love to cross my paws when I lay down.

Mommy is promising me some fun surprises for my Gotcha Day tomorrow!! I'll let you know all about it on Monday! Hopefully, it won't be mischief!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Thanks!

Mommy and I also wanted to say thank you to 2 Brown Dawgs Blog for giving us the "One Lovely Blog Award" and for all their kind comments and well wishes as I recover.

I went to the Vet

2012-01-26T07:41:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I went to the Vet to get my stitches taken out and to get my annual exam.

Mommy could not take a lot of pictures because she really has to focus on me.

But she said we can tell you about the visit.

First, I got weighed. I am 76 lbs. Everyone says that is a good weight for me.

Then I got my stitches out! That was the tough part. I didn't like it at all. Every time the Vet got close to the stitches, I twitched. Carol, my favorite Vet Tech, had to hold my head still while Mommy petted my nose. It was easier to relax when Mommy was close by. It took a bit, but finally, they got them all out.

Here is what my face looks like now.

The Vet says the scabs will start to fall off over time.

Mommy just needs to wash my face twice a day to keep it clean.

My ear is also looking perfect. I don't need to have any more of the nasty stuff put in my ears. They just need to be cleaned once a week!! Yeah!

Then, I got all my icky shots. I didn't complain because Mommy stayed close by and gave me treats. When we got home, I got to go out and play. The yard was not very muddy today, so I really did some running. When I came in, I was breathing really heavily.

Mommy loves the way I sound after I play. She loves it so much, she took a video.

Mommy loves the way I cross my paws when I lay down. I have done it since I was a little puppy.

As much as I love my Vet and all the Vet Techs there, I hope I don't need to go back there for a while. I think I have had enough bad things happen to me for a while.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday-- Chill-axing!

2012-01-25T10:03:00.000-05:00

I needed a break after I tore apart this stuffy!

Happy One Word Wednesday!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Playing with the Bailey & an Update

2012-01-24T12:45:00.000-05:00

This is Bailey. She is almost 2 years old. She is a very special little girl to Mommy, Daddy and Meg. They all call her their “Niece”. She comes over to the house a lot. But I was not allowed to play with her for a long time. Just recently, I’ve been allowed to be out of my cage when she is around.

Bailey and her Mom and Dad came over on Sunday Night. Bailey really wanted to play with me. She wanted to play so much, that she brought my toys to me while I was laying in my crate. I was a really good puppy while she did it.

This is Bailey and her Mom Theresa. They are sharing a cake pop.

I had to check it out! Sometimes I can get a bite.

And you know how those little people can be? They drop things sometimes.

Bailey didn’t drop anything, but she did let me lick the stick!

Bailey and I had a lot of fun together!

Update on My Recovery

I have been doing a lot of healing lately.

I like to lay on my back and let the fresh air get to my owies!

I get my stitches out tomorrow!!! And hopefully the hair will grow back quickly.

Mommy says the people who own the dog that hurt me have plead “not guilty” to having a “dangerous dog.” So Mommy and Daddy will be going to court on February 21. Mommy has lots of photos and documents to take to court. Hopefully the judge will help us.
We can’t put up the fence till the snow is gone and the ground is ready. So Daddy stands guard while Mommy plays with me twice a day in the back yard.
Thanks, everyone, for your “get well” wishes!! Hope this never happens to another doggy!
Doggy Kisses,
Tanner

Snow Puppy!

2012-01-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

It finally happened!! We got Snow! More than just a dusting and less then what would make Mommy and Daddy upset. In fact, Mommy seemed sort of excited to go out and play. This is what the back yard looked like from our back window.

Sorry about the window screens. But Mommy knew she had to get the shots before we went out.

I really was not sure what was going on. I just knew we were going out the Play!!!

I love to play!

When I got outside, I had to look around. Things had changed from yesterday!!

Then, Mommy and I got right down to business!

Mommy threw the ball and I chased! (Meg had the camera)

When the balls landed, sometimes they disappeared in the snow!

I had to dig to get them out!

Sometimes, my front paws stopped in the snow and my back paws kept going!

They flew up in the air and I did a front-paw stand!

The snow was wet and sticky. It covered the balls with snow!

Mommy and I had a great time playing!

And digging in the snow!

And Running!

And Sliding!

Snow Play is FUN!!!!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Snow Bunny

2012-01-20T14:24:00.001-05:00

We haven’t gotten any snow outside yet. So I decided to make my own inside. Mommy calls this my Snow Bunny!

This is what you see when you come into Mommy’s and My work room.

I have put ~~Snow~~ stuffing everywhere!!!

And I do mean Everywhere!!!

I had so much fun with this bunny!!! I wonder if real snow will be as much fun?

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday–Smile!

2012-01-18T09:30:00.001-05:00

This is what Mommy has been waiting to see again! Mommy loves my smile!

These smiles are from last night, after we played “chase the treat” through my hula hoop!

And this one is from the morning. Mommy and I went out in the back yard and played for a bit. We mostly ran back and forth. But I also got to chase balls that Mommy rolled across the ground. Notice, Mommy only took photos of my “good side”

Attack update

We are going to see my vet today to get my drains taken out. Mommy is really excited.

Mommy and Daddy also started the process to get the dog that attacked me declared “dangerous”. Mommy talked to lots of people and they told her that is what she should do.

I am getting lots of treats and special “pets”. You could say, I am one pampered puppy.

Hope you have some smiles today too!!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

My Appetite

2012-01-17T09:54:00.001-05:00

Hi! It’s me! I am back.

I am still feeling a bit woosey from the medicine that Mommy is giving me, but I wanted to try to help Mommy with today’s post. (She is taking such good care of me, I didn’t think she should have to do all the work).

Mommy took some pictures of the things that I have been doing that show I am feeling more myself.

Early yesterday afternoon, I ate some food from my Kong toy.

I had a few ice cubes, then I took a drink from my water dish.

I took a lot of interest in the food that Mommy and Daddy had. And I got to share with them.

Mommy and I love apple slices. She likes to put cinnamon on them.

And Daddy and I shared some pretzels.

And I even ate from my evening food toy.

And this morning, Daddy shared his Banana with me!!! I really love to do that!

Mommy says my appetite is really good. Dr. A, my regular vet, says I can play a bit today. Mommy wants to have some fun inside because it is raining. We don’t want to get mud in my wounds. I’ll let you know what Mommy comes up with tomorrow.

Thank you all for your prayer and well wishes for Mommy, Daddy and me. We are all healing physically and Mommy has touched base with Nancy about helping me heal emotionally. Mommy and Daddy are also going to follow up and do what they can to have the dog that hurt me declared “dangerous”. And we are also going to fence in our yard so we have a safe place to play and exercise.

Hope you are all safe and having fun with your families.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

:(

2012-01-16T10:48:00.001-05:00

Hi! This is Tanner’s Mommy, Beth! I am doing Tanner’s blog post today because he is not feeling well.

Tanner had some plans for some really fun posts this week. He wanted to tell you all about going to the Dog Park to play and the funny outfits Daddy and I wore to keep warm in the 20 degree temperatures.

But today we have to tell you about something more important.

Last night, Tanner, his Daddy and I were going for our evening walk. We had not gotten very far from home where Tanner saw a neighbor walking the other way and stopped to say “Hello”.

I was focused on Tanner. I wanted to be sure he behaved like a Canine Good Citizen. And he was doing very well.

All of a sudden, another dog came charging from behind us and latched on to Tanner. This dog has “attacked” him before, but we were able to separate them pretty quickly and without injury that time. This time, we were not.

Tanner’s Daddy and I struggled and struggled for what seemed like forever to get the other dog off of Tanner. The dog had hold around his cheek/neck area and we were terrified of what it was doing to him. We yelled for help and did everything we could think of. Five neighbors came to help us. One man was walking two Doberman’s and he had a chain that we used to get the other dog off of Tanner. Then, I sent another neighbor to get the owners of the attacking dog. The adults did not appear to be home. Just the kids and 21 year old son. I told them to take that dog in their house and get it away from us before it could attack again.

While two other neighbors helped me with Tanner who was alert and very clingy, I called 911. Daddy went to get the car. We drove 45 minutes to the ER Vet. And waited to be seen.

Tanner started acting more playful while we waited. He wanted everyone to rub his belly. He kept rolling on his back and exposing his underside. This made it easy for us to check for injuries on his underside. We did not find any, but we were still concerned. When he was seen, Dr. C wanted to shave his cheek and check around the ear for injuries. Because they were going to “sedate” Tanner, Dr. C told us to do and get something to eat while he worked. I really did not want to leave, but I knew I had to eat so I could be there for Tanner when he needed me.

While we were at dinner, we got a call from the Vet. They wanted to also add a drain to help the wounds heal better. We told them to go ahead.

We got our boy back around 10:15 last night, and we brought him home.

Here is a shot of him relaxing in his sleep space last night:

Thank heaven for good pain meds.

He did wake me up several times last night whining and dreaming. I know this attack has really effected him. It has also affected us.

I want to post some photos of his face, but I want you to be able to “not see” them if you choose. So I will post them further down on the page. Page down if you want to see them.

Daddy and I are working on plans to fence in our yard and keep him here to play. We will not be walking without a heavy club and a chain of some sorts. Even if we walk without Tanner, we will be well prepared.

Tanner is going to recover and so are we, but it is going to take time.

Tanner is getting lots of love and petting and TLC. We are so grateful that we still have him.

Thanks for letting me share this with you and thanks for your care and concern. It is wonderful to know that We are so connected to so many people around the world and we love you all.

Love, Huggs and Kisses,

Beth and Tanner

(Keep paging down if you want to see the photos. If not, we completely understand.)

This is Tanner’s beautiful face after the attack. You can see the two drains that were put in to help drain any possible infection. They come out in Three Days.

The Package

2012-01-12T12:57:00.001-05:00

The other day, Mommy went out to check the mail, and she came back with a package.

She and Daddy were pretty excited! They said it came from a friend who lived all the way across the country. And that is was full of fun pressies for them!

Daddy, Meg and MJ got pins from Disneyland. And Mommy got a nice booky-looking thing with pictures of quilts. (I am not sure what the book is, but I know what a quilt is. I am not allowed to get my muddy paws on those). And Mommy and Daddy got (what Mommy says ) some wonderful coffee to make. (Mommy LOVES coffee incase you didn’t know).

And there was one more thing in the box. I hadn’t been paying much attention to the whole “opening” process until I heard the tell-tale squeek!

I’m still not sure what was making the sound, but I know that whatever it was had to be for me!!!

Mommy just keep “oohing” and “ahhing” as she moved things around in the box.

And I kept getting more and more curious! But Mommy said I had to wait to find out what was making that noise. She said I had so many toys on the floor, she was going to save this one for a bit.

So, I am still waiting!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Positions

2012-01-10T09:42:00.001-05:00

I like to lay on my back!

I do it all the time! Sometimes I stretch out beside a toy that I have been chewing!

And sometimes, I just want a belly rub which my Hu-sis, Meg is happy to give me!

And sometimes, I just want to get as close to Mommy as I can while she is sitting in her chair working!

I’m not picky about what side of the chair I lay on. Sometimes, I wrap around Mommy’s leg and keep her in place while I take my nap!

And sometimes, just for a change of pace, I hide under someone’s legs behind a foot stool and stare at Mommy!!!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Mischief Monday– 1-9-2012

2012-01-08T22:30:00.001-05:00

I don’t know if you can actually call it “mischief” because Mommy encourages me to make this mess! Well, I guess that isn’t entirely true either.

Mommy encourages me to PLAY!

Mommy encourages me to chase the tennis balls that she throws over and over again twice a day. We both have a lot of fun. But I don’t think the yard likes it much.

This is what the center of our back yard looks like after three months of playing. When we first started, the weather was warm and dry and I didn’t kick up more than dust. Then it started to rain!!! Mud flew everywhere. Even on Mommy and Me!

And these are the kind of ruts that I have been making! Mommy says they are pretty deep.

Mommy says she wishes the ground would just freeze and stay frozen for a while, so I can’t make more mess. Daddy says he isn’t sure what we are going to do come spring when it really starts to rain. And Summer??? Well…..

But the best part is what I have done to my tennis balls. These babies were lime green two days ago!!! I have them beautifully coated with mud and grass and yummy stuff! They are so dirty, Mommy often looses them in the grass/dirt/whatever in our back yard!

So, I don’t know about you, but I would not call this “mischief” just good, healthy play time. So what if we don’t have grass!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

We are participating the the Mischief Monday Blog hop again this week. Please be sure to check out the Mischief some of my friends are getting into this week.

One Word Wednesday–Please?

2012-01-04T09:47:00.001-05:00

In case you are wondering, Mommy said yes!!! I got several pieces.

Happy One-Word Wednesday!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

New Year’s Eve Dinner

2012-01-03T10:21:00.001-05:00

I helped Mommy make dinner on New Year’s Eve.

At first, I was not sure what we were making. So I stayed out of the way. But I kept an eye on Mommy.

Then, Mommy started rolling out some dough.

I got up to check it out. The last time Mommy did this was Christmas night. I got my own pizza. Was that what we were making tonight?

Then, Mommy got out THE MEAT! So far, so good. Those were on my Christmas Pizza.

And the cheese!!!

Keep it coming Mommy. This is looking Yummy!!!

When Mommy opened the ham, I got really interested.

Look what she did with it and the Pepperoni and cheese!!

That looks sooooo yummy! I can hardly wait!

Mommy folded the sides of the dough over and put the whole thing on a baking sheet. Then, we went for a walk.

Although I did not get a bite of what Mommy called “Stromboli”, Daddy did work really hard to find me a “puppy safe” bite from one of Mommy’s Chocolate Chip cookies. Mommy puts lots of chocolate chips in her cookies, so Daddy had to eat several till he found a good bite for me. But I waited patiently till he did. I Love ALL cookies!!

May the rest of the New Year be as fun and tasty.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Mischief Monday

2012-01-02T12:48:00.001-05:00

Yes, I got into some.

It was on New Year’s Eve. Mommy and Daddy were watching TV. I had noticed these wonderful smelly things on the TV stand for several days. I had nuzzled them a couple of times, but that is where it stopped. To tell you the truth, the one on the right is rather warm, so I decided to stay away from that one.

But the one on the left….. That was another story.

I planned my attack carefully. First, I played with some of my toys. Then I sniffed a few other things on the TV stand. Then….. I started to sniff them!!!!

They smelled so yummy, I decided to try a nibble!

I got in a few tastes before Mommy spotted me. She called me away, but I went back again when she was not looking. (That’s when she took this photo).

I nibbled a few more times. “Maybe she wasn’t serious”, I thought. But she was.

The flowers got moved to a table that is out of my reach. And to make matters worse, Mommy put ‘the board’ in front of them just incase I decided to try.

I guess all things that smell like grass are not mine to eat.

Happy New Year to all of you.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

I am joining in the “Monday Mischief Blog Hop”

Check out some of the fun my other friends have been having.

S**W!

2011-12-30T09:46:00.001-05:00

To Mommy, that is a 4-letter word. She does not like the stuff. She said she saw enough last year when I was just a puppy. Heaven know how many hours we spent outside while I was learning where I was supposed to do my business.

Remember these photos?

I had only been with my family two days when they were taken!

I was such a devilish little fur-ball!

Well, today, this is what our yard looked like before Mommy took me out to play.

Mommy had to show me these pictures because I can’t see out the window.

And here is a shot of my “Tennis Ball Trees” covered with snow too!

(You ask why I call them that? Well, that’s for another post)

I really did not know what was going on. But I did know that Mommy was taking extra long to get ready to go out. I tried to be patient…. but…..

Once Mommy opened the door, I darted right outside and waited for her to throw the first ball. I didn’t even really notice the white stuff. I just wanted to play.

And play I did!! I chased those tennis balls all over the yard.

Mommy and I left all sorts of foot prints all over the yard! These are Mom’s.

And these are mine!

And this is what a tennis ball looks like when it has been rolling around in the snow for a half hour. Mommy said her fingers were getting really cold and wet, so we had to go in. But it was a great half hour, for me at least.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Christmas Was Pawsome!!!

2011-12-29T10:32:00.001-05:00

Sorry it has taken me a bit longer than promised to get this post up. Mommy has been busy working on a project that we will share with you next week. She needed the computer a lot when she was home. And when she was away…. well, she said I was not old enough to do my post alone yet! Go figure!

Anyway, here is what I got from Santa Paws. Keep in mind, these have all been well loved since I got them.

You already got to see my Fox that I got on Christmas Eve. The poor little guy has already lost his face! But he got a partner on Christmas day. I got a Raccoon too!! His nose is gone already!

I think this was my favorite toy. It had 5 squeakers in it when I got it. It took me about an hour to get them all out. Mommy was watching some parade while I worked on that project!

And, or course, I got some treats. This package had two cookies in it on Christmas day. Mommy got to have a snack too while I ate the one that is missing.

As you can see, this is the only package that is not opened yet! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE these. But I have not finished the ones I got for my Birthday. Mommy says Santa Paws just wanted to make sure I have enough on hand incase we get s**w.

I also got a bag of tennis balls, but they are all destroyed now. I am a tough chewer. Mommy says next year Santa needs to buy more durable tennis balls for my stocking.

Hope you all had a great Christmas! Hope you got lots and lots of cool pressies! And I hope you have a very good new year!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Sorry!

2011-12-28T18:41:00.001-05:00

I have not gotten to my promised Christmas Present Post in the past two days. Mommy got called away on some “Important Family Stuff” (don’t worry, everyone is fine) and would not let me use the computer by myself. But she promises me that tomorrow, we will get the post up!!

Sorry to keep you all waiting!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

We had “Company” for Christmas Eve

2011-12-26T14:54:00.001-05:00

Actually, we have had company several times during this holiday season. Back on the 18th, we had our “Native Family” over the share a meal with us to celebrate Solstice. Mommy made a chicken stew and chocolate cake. But I didn’t get any. I was a pest and had to spend most of the evening in my crate.

But on Christmas Eve, Ellen, Aunt Janet and Karen came to visit and I got to spend the evening with my family.

Mommy learned a few tricks from my mis-behaviour during the party on the 18th.

She decided that it would be a good idea to give me a new toy to play with while everyone was talking. I had to show it to everyone before I really decided to chew it. This is my stuffing-less Fox.

My new toy was even more fun than my Mushroom with my dinner in it! At least in my opinion.

Mommy also made sure to have plenty of my treats on hand. They are so yummy, I could not take my eyes off the bag!!! I left a drool mark on the table cloth. Mommy was not thrilled with that.

When everyone was opening their presents, I just could not resist poking my nose in to see what everyone got. I didn’t get to sample, but I did get to look.

After all the excitement was over (ie, the food eaten and presents open) I curled up under the table while they talked.

Mommy said I was a very good boy and Santa Paws would surely visit me that night.

I’ll tell you what he brought me tomorrow.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

My Tree

2011-12-20T18:56:00.001-05:00

I know! It’s Wordless/One-word Wednesday and usually I am really good a creating a post for that theme. But today, I think this photo needs a bit of explanation.

You see, every day on my walk, I see all these brightly colored lights on trees inside people’s homes. I am not sure why they are there, but they sure do look pretty and shiny.

We don’t have a tree like that at our house. Mommy says she is afraid of what I might do to it or how I will react to it. So I decided to take matters into my own hands.

The other day on our walk, I picked out my own tree!

I carried it for most of our walk. I wanted to spread some holiday cheer in the neighborhood. I think it worked, ‘cause Mommy and Daddy could not stop laughing.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday—Juggling!

2011-12-14T15:20:00.001-05:00

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

What Mommy and I are Doing today!

2011-12-13T12:27:00.001-05:00

Mommy has been doing a lot of this:

And I have been doing a lot of this:

Guess all the play time yesterday wore me out!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Home Again!!!

2011-12-12T11:44:00.001-05:00

Mommy came and got me from Doggy Camp yesterday morning. And, boy, was I glad to see her. I was so excited!!! I jumped all over her. She could not even get a picture of me.

I like Doggy Camp. I like it so much that when Mommy dropped me off last week, I jumped over her to get out of the car and go inside. The ladies that take care of me said I am getting the hang of being there. But, between you and me, I hope I don’t have to go too many times. I want to be with Mommy. She says we should be able to make that happen a lot more often from now on.

So, today, I am going to take some time to catch up with Mommy. We have walks to take and Tennis Balls to chase. I am a very happy boy!!!

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner!

Off to Doggie Camp, again!

2011-12-01T09:27:00.001-05:00

Mommy and Daddy really have not done much traveling this year. They said that a lot of bad things have happened that kept them from going anywhere.

But now, a lot of the bad stuff is over. So Mommy and Daddy are going away for a few days before the holiday season starts.

Mommy said if the camper had not had to be winterized, they would be taking it and me with them. But, because we live somewhere where this has to be done, I can’t go along.

I will be spending some time at Doggie Camp again. I should be back to posting around 12/12. Hope everyone stays well. See you when I get back.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday–Peaceful!

2011-11-30T10:44:00.001-05:00

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

We are participating in the Wednesday Blog Hop! Stop by and see what some of my friends have to say!

IT Happened!

2011-11-29T09:19:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, I started telling you about a great adventure Mommy, Meg and I had to a new park. Thanks for waiting patiently to hear about the end of the walk. It think you will like the story a lot more than Mommy did.

We had a great time on our walk…. until…..

We were just getting ready to start a second lap of the park. Another family was coming down the path toward us, and Mommy had me step into the grass so they could pass.

But the other doggie was so cute…. I just could not resist trying to meet him. He looked like he would be fun to play with.

So I lurched….. and Mommy fell down!!!! The grass was wet and muddy and Mommy just could not keep her footing when I charged toward the new dog. She did not seem to be hurt, but she was very wet.

We stopped walking and got into the car because Mommy was just too uncomfortable to keep walking.

When we got home, Meg took these pictures of Mommy.

Mommy’s backside was covered with Mud!!!

Even the side of her pant leg was muddy!

And check out the back of her jacket!

No wonder she was uncomfortable!

I got a bit muddy too! Funny thing though, I didn’t mind it as much as Mommy did.

Well, Mommy says she was a bit sore the next day from the fall, but nothing permanent. Daddy had to fill in and play with me for a while, but we still did our walk.

Guess I just need to stop lurching to meet other doggies. I have to let Mommy tell me when it is okay to go.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

Another Park Visit

2011-11-28T12:15:00.001-05:00

We have been having A LOT of rain where I live. Last week, it rained for three straight days. Mommy and I were real troopers. We went out to play for two of them. We both got a bit wet, but it was a lot of fun.

But on the third day, Mommy got up and looked out the window. She said that the backyard was a swamp and there was no way that we could safely play in the river that was running through the yard.

So I had to go for a walk in the morning to get my exercise. That was okay, but not as fun as playing ball.

By afternoon, the rain had stopped, but we still had lots and lots of mud. Mommy was afraid that either she or I would fall and hurt ourselves. So Mommy came up with another plan.

Mommy decided to take me to a new park to walk.

We had to drive a bit to get to the new park. But it was so worth it. The park is HUGE!!! And all the paths are paved.

I must admit, there were so many new things to smell that I spent most of the time at the very end of my leash. But I did not pull!

From time to time, I did trot back to see if Mommy was still walking with me.

As you can see, I spent a lot of time walking, sniffing and checking things out!

We made on full lap of the park. It is a really long path so it took us about a half hour to walk.

We were just getting ready to go around again… and IT happened!!!

What was IT? Well, you will have to wait till tomorrow. Mommy says this post is already long enough.

Doggy Kisses,

Tanner

More Birthday Treats!

2011-11-25T10:17:00.001-05:00

I will say, I am a spoiled Puppy! Wait a minute? I am one-year-old now! Guess I am not a puppy anymore, but a Dog.

Well, I guess I am one spoiled Dog!

Mommy was not done with the Birthday treats. She and Daddy went out for a little bit. They came back with some white boxes that smelled really good, so I think Daddy took Mommy out for dinner for her birthday (remember, we share the same birthday). Then Mommy gave me the best treat of all.

These are freshly baked Peanut Butter Cakes!!! And they are all for me!!!

Mommy put them in my bowl and took the bowl into the Living Room. I sat real nice and waited so Mommy could take this picture.

When Mommy said I could, I dug right in! They were so very yummy!

I was so happy for my treat, I took time out of eating to look up at Mommy and say “thanks”. These are so good!!

Doggie Kisses,

Tanner

Wordless Wednesday–11/23/11

2011-11-23T14:51:00.001-05:00

Need I say more?

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Birthday Treats!

2011-11-22T10:38:00.001-05:00

I was happy to see that many of you noticed that I also got some treats in “The Bag”.

Mommy said she chose them ‘specially for me. Lately, I have been having a real craving for bananas. Every morning, I beg for the ends of Daddy’s breakfast banana. And I usually get them too.

So Mommy chose these treats for my bag.

They both have banana in them. The yellow one is Peanut Butter and Banana, and the green one is Apple and Banana. Mommy put them on the floor and let me choose which one we should open first.

And the winner is…..

The green bag. I wanted to try the Banana and Apple ones first!

And, boy, were they yummy!!! Mommy almost didn’t have time to get them out of the bag before my nose was on them.

I also got another Tasty Treat, but that will have to wait till tomorrow’s post.

My friend, Bailey (from www.baileybegood.com) is doing a special feature on Dogs in Cars. And I am there today along with some of my other friends. Thanks Bailey for including me. Hope everyone checks of the great photos of all my furry friends going along for the ride.

I am also joining in the Tasty Treats Blog Hop today. Here are some of the great things my fur friends are enjoying.

Tanner

What was in the Bag?

2011-11-21T10:54:00.001-05:00

Are you as curious as I was to find out what was in that red bag Mommy had hanging on the closet door last week? Well, your wait is over.

On Sunday morning, after breakfast, Mommy let me take a look inside! Look at all those goodies.

And, why may you ask did I get so lucky to get this haul. Well here is another clue.

I have been wearing this collar all month. At first, I thought it was for Kels 21 st birthday on the 7th. Then I thought it was for Meg’s birthday on the 12th, but guess what? It was for my birthday and MOMMIES too!!!

Yes!! On Sunday, I turned ONE YEAR OLD! And Mommy got a year older too!! We both got some nice presents and had a great time. It was so much fun, it will probably take me all week to tell you about it.

The first things we took out of the bag were the two HUGE tennis balls. These things are really really big.

We went out in the backyard and I shook and shook and shook to make sure they were dead.

Then, I got to play fetch with Daddy, while Mommy took pictures!

Mommy says, I am a really good boy because I never run into her. I get close, but I don’t want to hurt Mommy!

I think we did a great job breaking in my new toys. Here is what they looked like when we put them away when we were done playing.

Mommy says this post is long enough and I should save something to tell you tomorrow.

I am participating the the Monday Mayhem blog hop. Stop by and check out what some of my friends have been up to.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Chaos and Contentment

2011-11-18T10:27:00.001-05:00

Two sides of ME!!!

Chaos!

Contentment!

Weekend Hints:

Mommy gave me another hint about this weekend’s special plans. She said that what is in this bag is for me. I can’t read, but Mommy said even if I could that would not help.

It does not smell special, so I don’t really have any idea. Guess I will just have to wait till Sunday to find out!

Happy Birthday, Nala and her Daddy!

Today is my fur friend Nala’s Birthday. She is 13 today. And her Daddy also celebrates another year. Stop by and wish her a happy day if you get a chance

http://www.baileybegood.com/home/2011/11/18/happy-13th-birthday-nala/

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday–Close!

2011-11-16T10:24:00.001-05:00

I will do anything to be close to Mommy! I’ll even lay under Daddy’s feet!

P.S. Mommy says to tell you all that she and I have something really special coming up on Sunday. She won’t tell me what it is, but she tells me it is something she has done a lot of times, but it will be my first. Can you guess what it is??? I am still trying.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

I am joining in the Wordless Wednesday Blog Hop. Check out what some of my friends had to “say” today!

Another Dog Park

2011-11-15T12:56:00.001-05:00

If you thought the Dog Park where I live is great, you should have seen the one at the campground. Actually, they had three of them. One was having some work done, so we could not visit. And the other one we just walked by because it was close to the road. But the one that we played in was……. PAWSOME!!!

But, first, I have to show you the place where I got to sleep in the camper. It is a small space, and Mommy says when Meg’s is not with us, she will probably not make me stay in it. But it was a warm, safe place for me to sleep this weekend.

I slept at the foot of Mommy and Daddy’s bed. Between the closet and the bathroom. And that is my mat from home. Everything smelled really comforting to me!

Now, back to the Dog Park!!

Mommy, Daddy and Meg’s took me for a walk on Saturday morning. I was not sure where we were going. Normally in the morning, Mommy and I go out in the backyard and play for a while. I don’t usually go for a walk until the afternoon.

Then we came into this big fenced in area….. and Mommy started to throw my tennis balls. She threw for a long time, then asked Daddy to throw some so she could take some pictures.

Look at all this space!! Mommy says there wasn’t even a fence down along those trailers. But, I didn’t notice! I was too busy playing.

Daddy is pretty good at throwing my tennis balls too!!! I love to chase them.

I just could not get enough. Finally, Mommy had to call and end to the game because she could tell I was getting tired.

And we hadnt’ even played in half the park. Here is what the other half looked at. (This part was behind Daddy and Mommy while we were playing.)

After we finished playing this time, we went for a walk around the rest of the campground. Meg’s held my leash and I behaved really well for her.

Later in the day, Mommy and Meg’s took me up to the park again to play!!! How lucky can a pup get??? Two play sessions and two walks in one day!!! No wonder I was tired.

Mommy and I spent a big part of the rest of the evening in the camper. Mommy said she just could not get warm outside. And she didn’t want me trying to eat anymore rocks. So we curled up in the camper.

It was a PAWRIFIC trip. I had a great time and can’t wait to go again.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Camping!

2011-11-13T14:21:00.001-05:00

Yes! You read it right! I finally got to go camping with Mommy and Daddy!! I was not sure where I was going when Mommy first put me in the car. After all, the last time I went for a long car ride, I ended up at Doggy Camp. It was a long time to be away from Mommy.

But, when we went down to the storage lot and hooked up the camper, I knew we were going on a new adventure.

In case you don’t remember what our camper looks like on the outside, this is a photo from the day we picked it up. I have to say, I was a bit freaked out that day. I have never felt a car bounce quite like that. Every time Mommy stopped, the brakes made the car rock back and forth. But I think I am getting used to it.

We went camping with Kels family at a campground where they are members. We shared a site with them. It was a lot of fun.

I got to see my buddy Max (Kels dog) even though I was not allowed to get too close. He curled up on Meg’s lap to take a nap on Saturday afternoon. He really made her laugh when he started to dream.

By the way, Saturday was also Meg’s Birthday!!! Happy Sweet 19 to the best human-sister in the world!!

Our camper is not huge inside. But it is big enough for Mommy, Daddy and Me!! This is me, laying on the floor while Daddy and Meg watch tv.

And this is Me, helping Mommy cook! I can get under her feet as easily in the camper as I can at home!

And, this is Me on the couch!! Mommy left me alone inside while she was sitting by the camp fire. She brought me in because I was trying to eat rocks. Mommy said I can eat all the leaves and grass that I want, but not the rocks. So, I got to go inside for a while. And this is where I chose to take a nap. The nice part, Mommy was not upset when she caught me!! Boy was I surprised!

In fact, I even got to sit up on the couch with Megs later in the evening. I guess this couch must be like my futon in the workroom.

And here I am relaxing with Daddy after supper! I sure was a tired pup!!

Well, this post is getting long, so I think I will tell you about the reason I am so tired in tomorrow’s post. But the bottom line is, I LIKE CAMPING!! And Mommy says I can come a lot more often.

Hope you all had a great weekend.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Happy Veterans Day!

2011-11-11T09:46:00.001-05:00

Thank you to all who have served, are serving or are planning to serve. And thank you to your families who held strong on the home front while you were serving.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

The Dog Park

2011-11-08T18:35:00.001-05:00

I really don’t know why Mommy never took me here before. This place is beautiful!!!

Lots of wide open spaces for me to walk and play!

It is so big that even these machines don’t take up much space. Mommy says they are here because the people in charge of the park are still working to make it an even better place. Although I am not sure what they could do to make it better than it is.

To get to the fenced in Dog Park part, we had to walk across a big field. I had to borrow a harness for the walk because I did not have the right kind. But Mommy had the right kind of leash. I have a 20’ cotton leash that I use for these walks.

I am dragging that leash in this picture. But as you can tell, I don’t mind it at all. The dog park comes with Tennis Balls!!!

There were so many tennis balls that I just could not choose which one to bring back. Mommy and Daddy threw tennis balls for me for about half an hour. I picked up one, then dropped it when I got to another one. It was so much fun.

And, do you see how far way I am from Mommy?? And I am not even half way to the fence!! I can’t wait to go back and explore this place some more. Mommy says maybe we will go again today.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Why a Retractable lead?

2011-11-08T10:25:00.001-05:00

So many of you that dropped by yesterday commented on my retractable lead that Mommy and I though we would take a few minutes today to explain.

My problem has really never been pulling on walks. In the beginning, when I was just a little puppy, I refused to walk. No matter what Mommy did, I would take a few steps then just sit. Collars, head collars, harnesses, treats…. none of it convinced me.

Mommy and Daddy did not give up. The spent a lot of time just waiting me out. They did not give in. They would walk a bit and when I stopped and stood still, they would wait till I moved then praise me a lot. I finally got the idea and off we went.

I have been walking on a head collar with a 4’ leash for quite a while. But I started having some behavior issues. I started putting my teeth on Mommy. That is why we tried the two-point of contact leash and all the other techniques. But things just kept getting worse.

This is what I started doing:

We also played fetch in the house and both Mommy and I did a lot of things wrong. Here is a day where things went bad:

I was just so frustrated!!! This is why Mommy and Daddy took me to see Nancy. She is the one who told them I needed more play time and more freedom.

That is when I got my 50’ leash and all the wonderful toys to play in the back yard!!

And I am having so much fun playing. Nancy said after I had played fetch 500 times we could think about walking again if my behavior improved. And it did. So that is why Marta taught Mommy how to walk me on a long leash and the retractable leash.

The long leash is really hard for Mommy to use in the neighborhood. 20’ of line is a lot for a 5’2” person to hold and walk. But it is great when we are in an open field. The retractable is for the neighborhood walks.

And, truth be told, I still don’t pull on walks. I tend to lag behind to get all the smells before I move on.

Squirrels are fun, but Mommy has the tennis balls and the treats. I want to play with her!!

Thanks, everyone for stopping by and commenting yesterday (and everyday!) I love to share ideas with you and help each other. This is a great way for us to connect. After all, Mommy does not like it when I stand outside and bark to get your attention.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

My Looooong Leash!

2011-11-07T10:10:00.001-05:00

Last week, Mommy, Daddy and I met with Marta to learn how we could start going on walks again.

We used to walk every day, twice a day. But when I started behaving really badly on walks, Nancy said we had to stop. I got plenty of exercise in the back yard playing fetch, but no walks.

Well, now that I am behaving better, Nancy said I could learn to walk on a long leash. Mommy was very excited. She missed walking with me so very much.

So here are the new things I got this time.

I got a new harness. This one has the leash attachment in the front. It is made by Softouch. I wear a size large and this one is 1” wide (I weigh 76.2 lbs now). It is really comfortable.

I comes in Red, Blue and Black. Mommy wishes it come in Brown to match my fur.

And I got a retractable leash!!! Mommy said she would never ever buy one. But she had to change her mind if she wanted to walk with me. Mommy was hurt by one several years ago and she did not want to have that happen again. So she chose carefully.

She picked on that would go 16’ but was made of webbing not cable. If she had gotten the cable one, I could have gone 23’. But Mommy didn’t want anyone to get hurt.

So, this is how we walk around the neighborhood. We have gone out twice now and Mommy and I had a really good time.

Tomorrow, I will tell you about the leash that I get to use at the dog park!!! That place is Pawsome!!!!

But , before I go, I have one more thing….

Happy Birthday, Kels!!! Today is the big 21!!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Lites, Camera, Action!!!

2011-11-03T13:17:00.001-04:00

I love to chase tennis balls, and Mommy loves to take pictures of me! So, with Daddy’s help (someone had to throw the tennis balls for me), Mommy and I had some fun yesterday.

Here are some great shots that she took of me chasing and catching my tennis balls in the back yard.

Boy, I move so fast this one is blurry!

Look at that air time!! I love to catch the balls on the bounce!

In coming!!!!

Concentrate! Concentrate!

I drop one and Dad thows the other one!

I love this game so much! That is why I keep brining the balls back!

Hope you are having a good day too!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday–Happy!!!

2011-11-02T10:33:00.001-04:00

I am Happy!!! Happy to be home! Happy to be with Mommy! Happy to be tearing apart stuffed toys! Happy to be playing fetch in the back yard!!

I am just plain Happy!!! Hope you are too!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

I’m joining in the Wednesday Blog Hop! Come and see what my friends are doing!

I’M HOME!!!!

2011-10-31T10:34:00.001-04:00

I was starting to wonder if it would happen, but Mommy and Meg came to Doggy camp today and got me.

We had a lot of snow at camp. That made it really hard for Mommy and Daddy to get back from their trip. And it was even hard for Meg to get up the road to the camp to get me.

We lost power on Saturday at camp and the nice lady who took care of me has been running a generator to turn the lights on.

Even the play yard was covered with snow.

Mommy and Meg got to camp before 9 am to pick me up. The waited in the lobby while the nice lady got me ready.

She had Mommy come into the long hallway and call me!

And I came running, slipping and sliding all the way!!

Mommy put on my seatbelt and I happily got into the car!

I was not sure where I was going, but Mommy and Meg where going with me!

I was so happy to see Mommy again that I actually relaxed a bit on the way home!

We had snow at home too!!

And Mommy brought me some nummy cookies!

Now, I am resting in my favorite spot under the table. I am so happy to be home!!!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Off to “Doggy Camp”

2011-10-14T12:28:00.001-04:00

I am going on an adventure. And so is Mommy. But we are not going to the same place.

Mommy says I am going to “Doggy Camp”. She says it is a really nice place where I can come in and out anytime I want. I will see other doggies, but not be able to play with them. Someone else will give me my food for a while, and take me out to play every day.

Mommy says it is a very nice place and the lady in charge has been running “Doggy Camp” for a very long time.

I hope I have fun. I’ll see you all when I get back.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

The end of the Kitchen Waterfall

2011-10-13T10:26:00.001-04:00

Water!!! It is something we all need! The question is, how to we as fur-babies get our water? I still have not figured out how to turn on the faucet. And Mommy does not like it when I put my paws on the counter. So what is a fur-baby to do?

Mommy wanted to spoil me. She thought a needed a new water dish. So several weeks ago, she bought me a waterbowl that filtered the water. You can read all about it in “The One that Stayed”.

But, unfortunately, it did not stay. Mommy had some problems with it.

The part that I was supposed to drink from got a black ring around it.

The ring went the whole way around the bowl. And the area by the intake valve had some icky stuff on it.

The filter compartment got a cloudy slime on the walls. Mommy said it reminded her of a fish tank and there was no way she was letting me drink out of it.

That was fine with me. I was glad to see it go. I didn’t like the water from it anyway. Now I have this water dish.

Mommy says it holds 2.5 gallons of water. It has a nice big opening to add the water.

This cap twists onto the big opening to keep the water from coming out too fast.

This is what the bottle looks like before Mommy puts it in the base.

And this is what I look like, happily drinking from my water dish after a great play session in the back yard.

Sometimes, you just should not mess with a good thing.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday - Old-Fashioned

2011-10-11T19:19:00.001-04:00

Sometimes, the old, simple way is the best!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Away we go!

2011-10-10T21:00:00.001-04:00

Saturday morning was not a normal day at our house! Mommy got me up early. It was still dark when she took me into the living room. She got Daddy and Meg up and then made breakfast really early. I got my food and went out. Then, Mommy put my seat belt harness on me.

We went outside and got in the big red car. But something was different. “Pop” (our camper) was attached to the back of the car.

I was not sure what was going on. So I fussed a bit as we started to drive. But Meg, Mommy and Daddy were with me, so eventually I figured everything was going to be okay and I settled down and enjoyed the drive.

When we got where we were going, Mommy let me out of the car. It was a great place to explore.

They had a lot of grass to smell

and places to go in and out of.

I had a lot of fun.

And when we were ready to leave,

Look what followed us home! We got a new camper!

I got to spend some time inside while we were away. Mommy says I will be spending lots more time inside in the future. I can’t wait. I love to be with Mommy and Daddy.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Frisbees, and Balls and Stuffed Toys! Oh My!

2011-10-09T21:20:00.001-04:00

I mentioned last week that Mommy and Daddy took me to see an Animal Behaviorist named Nancy. Nancy told Mommy and Daddy that I needed to play more. And boy have we been playing.

Mommy and Daddy take me out in the back yard twice a day and throw frisbees, or balls on strings or tennis balls for a long time. I go and get them and bring them back. Sometimes we play tug-o-war. And other times I drop them right away and they throw them again.

It is so much fun!! Here is a quick video of me playing fetch with Daddy. (Mommy was holding the video camera)

I also have gotten to have stuffed toys. Mommy never let me do that before. But Nancy said I needed to be able to tear things apart so that I would not tear Mommy’s arm apart. Here is a video of what I did to one of my toys.

As you can see, I am having a lot of fun!!! And because I am having so much fun, I am behaving a lot better. I have not chewed on Mommy’s arm since we came home from Nancy’s house. I even got to go on a special field trip with Mommy and Daddy over the weekend. I’ll tell you about that tomorrow.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Meg’s Cake

2011-10-07T13:36:00.001-04:00

Here it is!!! This is Meg’s beautiful Wedding Cake!

Mommy said it was yummy!

One layer was chocolate (which I can’t have anyway)

And the others were sponge cake with yummy fillings!!

I really wish I could have tasted some!

And this is Meg’s Chocolate Box and Sugar Flowers.

She made these!! And they are really pretty! She got to bring these home for me to see too!!

And this is Meg and Daddy with the cake before she cut it!!

They look so proud and happy, and hungry!

This is Chef Bob. Mommy said he welcomed everyone to the event.

And this is Chef Jamie. She was Meg’s teacher.

First, Meg had to tell everyone about her cake.

Then she sliced it and served it to everyone. Doesn’t that cake look yummy!!!

Mommy said everyone had a really good time!

I know I didn’t get to go to the party, or try any of the cake. But rest assured, I had a great day too! Look what I got to do!

Nancy says I need to do this to make me behave better. Mommy was happy because I did not eat the stuffing. I just played and played and played with it. It was a lot of fun.

I’ll tell you more about my visit with Nancy next week. Mommy is putting together some photos that I can share. There may even be a video.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Yesterday and Today

2011-10-06T10:46:00.001-04:00

Let me start by saying, I don’t have any photos to share today. So this post might be a bit boring for some of you. Sorry about that.

But please know, I am anything but bored!!! Mommy and Daddy took me to see an Animal Behaviorist yesterday afternoon. Mommy was really tired of me biting her arm. We went to see the Vet who told us to go and see this person.

The nice lady we met was named Nancy. She lives on a farm with her “puppy” Ash (who is my age) and several horses!!!!

Nancy is a very nice lady. The first thing she did with me was PLAY!!! We played frisbee!!! Lots and Lots and Lots of frisbee!!!

It was so much fun. Then she taught Mommy how to play with me too!!! After we stopped playing, I sat beside Mommy and I gave Mommy one of my happy smiles! I had so much fun running. Mommy was so happy, she

There are going to be a lot of changes in my life. I will post photos as Mommy gets free hands to take them.

But today is a special day, too!!! My Hu-sis, Meg, graduates from Pastry School today!!!! So Mommy is really busy getting ready to go to the Cake Event Celebration.

I can’t go, because it is at a restaurant. But Mommy says she will take lots and lots of pictures for me to share with you tomorrow!!

Hope you all have a great day!!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday–Winner!!

2011-10-05T10:02:00.001-04:00

My hu-sis, Meg helped me pick the winner of the My Memories Suite 2 software this morning. I could not get my paw around the slips of paper that Mommy made to pick the winner.

And the winner is….. drum roll please…..

Mommy says she will contact you by e-mail to get you the code to download your software. Congratuations!!! And thanks to everyone who entered!

Remember, if you did not win and would still like to have a copy of this great program, Mommy and I can get you a discount. Check out the link at the top of the blog.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Sleeping!

2011-10-04T09:50:00.001-04:00

Remember this? This was my Bedroom Crate. It was sort of my little bedroom in Mommy and Daddy’s room. I slept here every night, until…..

Mommy decided I should learn to sleep out of my crate. She moved my crate out and moved the quilt rack in.

The is enough space between the bed where Mommy sleeps and the quilt rack to get into my space. When it is time for bed, Mommy puts the gate across the opening to keep me safe.

I have plenty of room to lay down beside Mommy’s bed. But it did take some getting used to.

The first night, it took Mommy and hour to get me to go to sleep. Mommy had to put on my thunder shirt and a head wrap. She also played some nice soothing music to help us fall asleep

The second night only took half an hour. I still wore my thunder shirt, and Mommy played the nice music. She also added some nice spray stuff that helped me to calm down.

And last night was about 15 minutes. I didn’t even need my thunder shirt. I just wanted my t-touch massage, the nice spray and the music. Mommy and I both slept pretty well.

Hopefully, each night will get better and better. Mommy says this is something I need to learn for the surprise that is coming. I’ll keep you posted as I learn more.

Oh, and don’t forget about out Give-away. Tomorrow morning, Mommy and I are giving away a free copy of My Memories Studio 2 scrapbooking software to one of our readers who comments on Mommy’s review of the product. Check out this post for details: My Memories!

Good Luck!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

My Memories!

2011-10-02T15:47:00.001-04:00

Mommy and I have been asked to check out a new digital scrap booking software package and write a review. Mommy was really happy because she loves to take pictures, especially of your’s truly. Being as Mommy did most of the work, I am going to turn the blog over to her today for the review. But don’t worry, I’ll be back to announce our give away.

Hi Everyone. This is Tanner’s Mommy. About a week ago, I was approached by the makers of My Memories Studio 2 and asked if I would take a look at their product. For that past several days, I have been playing with My Memories Suite 2! It is a computer package that allows you to create and print digital scrap book pages. And I have to say, I think it is pretty slick!

Let me start by saying that I love to take pictures, but I hate doing conventional scrapbooking. I have always found it a challenge to find exactly the right embellishment to add to my layouts when I wanted them. But that is not longer a problem with this software package.

I have only had the software for a few days now. I have so many photos that I had a hard time deciding on a first project. I decided to start with an album of puppy photos of Tanner. I have to admit, he is one of my favorite photo subjects.

Like other software packages, My Memories Suite 2 allows you to import, crop and make other adjustments to your digital photos without leaving the program. It was really easy for me to preview my photos in the software, work with them and choose the ones to use in the layouts.

The software also came with a lot of wonderful background papers! This one is a large houndstooth pattern. It is available in a variety of colors to compliment any design.

One of my favorite features in My Memories Suite 2 is the ability to create your own elements from, …well from anything. On this page, I used a photo that I took at Tanner’s first rally trial this summer. By changing the opacity, I was able to make it a great background “paper".

My Memories Suite 2 also has a lot of great fonts and styles to use as headlines and journaling text.

I have been having a lot of fun playing with the text formatting too! The page above has a flat look that I liked for this layout.

And this page has letters with a “pillow” bevel. It gives the words a raised look that I thought complimented the paw print graphic.

Another challenge I have always had with conventional scrapbooking is finding the little touches that make a page look finished. But that is not a challenge with My Memories Studio 2. The software includes a huge selection of embellishments, like the hammered brads that I added to the page above to anchor the item on the page.

The program also offers a lot of ways to share your finished albums with other. You can print your albums, or have them printed. Or you can share them in several digital ways. I have printed a page just to see how it looked, but I have not had time to check out more than a preview of the other options.

I still have a lot more features to check out on this software, but I am really looking forward to preserving my family’s memories with this package. It is very user friendly, loaded with content and has lots of additional kits available to increase my resources in the future.

Hi Everyone:

I am back!!! I like the layouts that Mommy has been doing. I like them so much that I want to share My Memories Studio 2 with you. The maker’s of My Memories 2 have given me a copy to give away to one of my fans. Here is how you can be entered to win.

1. Go to My Memories Studio 2’s site.

2. Browse through the digital kits that are available to add to

your copy of My Memories Studio 2.

3. Come back to my blog and leave me a post mentioning your favorite.

On Wednesday, Mommy and I will put the names of everyone who commented into a hat and pull out a winner. (Hey, there is my One Word Wednesday Post for this week!!!)

Oh, and if you are not the winner, but would like to have a copy of this package for yourself, Mommy and I are able to offer you a $10 discount. Just use code STMMMS33538

at www.mymemories.com to purchase your own copy of My Memories Studio 2!!

Good Luck Everyone!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Where do we go from here?

2011-09-30T14:09:00.001-04:00

So, Mommy and I have been home from the SANE seminar for a week and a half now. (See these posts for a reminder –”I’m doing the best I can”, “Why do I “Fool Around”?”, “I Now Have A…”, and “My Thundershirt”).

Some of the things in my life have gotten a lot better. I am walking really well with my 2-point leash. I still wear the head collar, ‘cause Mommy says I like to keep my head down too much. But our walks are a lot of fun. In fact, we have even started walking a bit further when the weather allows.

I wear my Thundershirt every evening. But… when I put my shirt on, Mommy and I get to stay up for another hour. Mommy seems really happy to get to watch TV and spend a bit more time with Daddy.

And Mommy is now putting some really yummy stuff on my food. This is the package that it come from:

I really like the taste of it. Mommy puts some water on my food and it makes a sort of sauce. I lick my bowl clean every time I am fed. Mommy says this stuff is to help me calm down just a little bit till she can help me learn to be calmer. She thinks it is working.

And one more thing…. My porta crate is not set up in the living room.

It is sitting right next to my living room crate! What gives? And, yes, that is me in my crate. I was taking a stress break when Mommy took the shot. Mommy seems to want me to get comfortable being left in my porta crate. Guess I will have to see why as time goes on.

Mommy is still reviewing the special surprise that we promised. We hope to share it with you early next week. We will be doing a give away too, as soon as we figure out how to do it. We want to make if fun for everyone.

Have a great weekend everyone,

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Water Dish Update

2011-09-28T22:16:00.001-04:00

Do you remember when I got my new water dish? You know, the one that is like a mini waterfall in our kitchen?

You can check out the post here: Kitchen Water Feature

Well, even though I was really interested in it in the beginning, Mommy noticed the other day that I have not been drinking from it for about a week now. I have been asking to go down stairs to the studio when we get home from a walk to get my drink.

So, Mommy decided to put a bowl of water on the floor beside my water fall to see which I would choose.

I chose the bowl of water.

So, Mommy kept that filled for the past two days and I seemed pretty happy.

Last night, Mommy decided to take the water fall apart. She intended to just put it away. This is what she found when she was cleaning it out.

Even though we used filtered water and had a filter in the waterfall, the bowl started to get a nasty ring around it.

This is the other side of the bowl, by the intake for the filter. Pretty nasty dark line!

And this is what Mommy found inside the place where the filter sits. It was like a gooey slim. Mommy said it was like the stuff she used to find when she cleaned out a goldfish bowl.

Even the tank under the “refill” tank had the slimy stuff in it. No wonder I would not drink from it.

Mommy said she is going to leave it sit over night to dry out. Then she is going to wash it again and try it one more time. If it happens again, we go back to the old fashioned water dish for good.

We’ll keep you updated on our test.

Puppy kisses,

Tanner

P.S. Keep your eyes open for a give away from Mommy and me. We are testing something new and hope to post a review around the first of next week. And we will be announcing a special give-away. Can’t wait to share it with all my friends.

One Word Wednesday–Waiting!

2011-09-28T14:47:00.001-04:00

…for Mommy to throw my toy!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

I am joining the Wednesday Blog Hop! Check out what some of my friends are doing!

My fall collar is on!

2011-09-25T22:05:00.001-04:00

Mommy likes me to be fashionable. So, after I got my bath last week (so humiliating), Mommy changed my collar.

Now, I am sporting a “Pumpkin” collar with my name on it.

And Mommy has a matching bracelet!!!

I am really busy playing and chewing on my antler.

Mommy is having a hard time getting a picture of me wearing the collar.

Hopefully I’ll stand still soon, NOT!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

My Thundershirt!

2011-09-23T14:06:00.001-04:00

Remember this photo from yesterday’s post? Do you know what I am wearing?

Yes! I am wearing a Thundershirt!

And Mommy and I love it!!

My Thundershirt is really helping to calm me when I start my “fool around” behavior.

Thundershirts are not just for doggies that are afraid of storms or loud noises. They are also a great tool for doggies that just get a bit “silly” when they don’t know what to do.

Kathy (from the SANE Seminar) first tried a Body Wrap with me

This is my friend Charlotte and her Mommy. Charlotte is wearing a body wrap.

I, however, took the Body Wrap off, all by myself. So Kathy suggested that Mommy try the Thundershirt! She said that this might stay on better and it does!

I can really relax when I am wearing it. Mommy and I stayed overnight in a hotel while we were at the seminar. This is me, relaxing on the bed with Mommy! I really enjoyed cuddling with her.

I wore my shirt off and on through the rest of the weekend. And now I wear it for an hour or so every evening. Mommy says I am a lot more fun to play with. Our fetch games don’t get so rough and I take breaks. It also lets Mommy and me stay up later and spend more time with Daddy.

Mommy likes my Thundershirt so much that she bought a second one to have as a spare while mine is getting washed.

All in all, I recommend Thundershirts!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

(BTW! I am not associated with the company, or paid for this review. Mommy purchased my Thundershirt with her own money. Thundershirt does offer a moneyback guarantee)

I now have a ….

2011-09-22T09:48:00.001-04:00

….lot of new stuff in my life. At the SANE Seminar, Mommy learned a lot of new things about Balance. We learned that my emotional state effects my physical state. When I am afraid or “stressed,” I just can’t think and work through the situation. That is just not how I am made. I need to learn how to cope.

The first way Mommy is working at brining me into physical balance is on our walks. Mommy has never walked me on a collar. I have always used a head collar. But Kathy helped Mommy to understand that I was still pulling on the head collar.

Kathy had Mommy put a “step-in” harness on me and attach my leash at two points to help me stop pulling and walk on all four feet. Mommy has some learning to do here too. She needs to learn where to hold the leash (which by the way, is very long for her). And she needs to learn to alternate giving me signals on the front and back of the leash. But, as you know, Mommy and I love to walk. I know we will have a lot of practice.

I also got a new head collar. Mommy decided that the Halti brand had a nicer band and would be more comfortable for me. I am really starting to like it.

Oh, and I got one more thing!!! Can you guess what it is?

I’ll tell you more about it tomorrow. But this is how I feel every time Mommy puts it on me. She says it is a miracle that she would have never thought of trying.

Wordless Wednesday!

2011-09-21T10:33:00.001-04:00

I turned 10 months old yesterday! Mommy will use any excuse to buy me a present! This is what I got!

And this is what I thought of it!

I could not wait for Mommy to give it to me! She said I can only have it when she can watch me! We’ll see how it goes!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

P.S. Tomorrow, more about the SANE Seminar!

Why do I “Fool Around"”?

2011-09-20T13:49:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, I started telling you about the SANE seminar that Mommy took me to this past weekend. SANE is all about Solutions for Extreme Dog Behaviors. And Mommy says my “fooling around” gets pretty extreme.

This is what I can do with a leash if I am allowed.

You can imagine what I would do to Mommy’s hand.

But, please notice, I am a happy boy while I am doing it. I just don’t know how to cope. I don’t want to hurt Mommy. I just don’t know what else to do. I have probably been asked to do something I don’t understand, or I have just had too much training time. Mommy now knows I need to take a break.

Kathy told us that some doggies get like this when they are scared or confused. There are 4 ways a doggie can act and mine is one of them. But most people don’t think I am scared or confused. They think I am just playing and it is cute.

Mommy says it’s not so cute and she wants to help me get through these times better.

One of the things we learned about was “Balance”. This is a photo of Kathy trying to help me have more balance. I now walk with a different leash. But I’ll tell you about that later this week.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

I’m Doing the Best I Can!

2011-09-19T11:36:00.001-04:00

That is what Kathy told Mommy at the S.A.N.E. seminar this past weekend!

She said that I am having a normal reaction when I get “silly” and grab at my leash and at Mommy’s hand. I just don’t know how to cope, so this is what I am doing.

To Mommy and me, this was great news.

But let me back up a bit and tell you where we went and why.

Mommy has been trying to help me with my crazy behavior. She has tried all sorts of things, but now she wanted to learn about T-touch. So, Marta (my local trainer) suggested that Mommy take me to the SANE seminar this past weekend.

The seminar was at 4 Paws Spa and Training Center. Mommy and I had to get up early on Saturday and drive for quite a while.

I got to relax on the back seat of the car while Mommy did all the driving.

We took a lot of stuff with us. This is just the pile that Mommy put on the front seat. You should have seen what was in the hatch.

The training center was a big, open room with a nice rubber floor. Mommy had brought my porta-crate and she had it all set up with my mat before she took me into the center.

I felt a bit uncomfortable in this new space. Then all the other people and the other dogs got there.

This is a picture of Kathy that Mommy borrowed from her website (Cascade Animal Connection).

Kathy said the first thing we needed to do was observe our dogs. So she asked Mommy to walk me around the room for everyone to see. Of course, being the puppy that I am, I started to “fool around” pretty quickly. And that is where our journey started.

I’ll tell you more tomorrow. Believe me, we have a lot to share.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

The Rock

2011-09-13T11:24:00.001-04:00

Mommy and Daddy were not the only ones who went on a trip lately. Uncle Larry and Aunt Cindy also went on a trip. They went “out west” (whatever that means). They got back around the time Mommy and Daddy were leaving to go see Jaxon.

Saturday was the first time we had seen them in a long time. They came to our house for a visit. They brought lots of pictures of the things they saw, and some really pretty souvenirs for Mommy, Daddy, Meg, MJ and Kels.

One of the things that Uncle Larry brought for Daddy was a Rock from the Crazy Horse Monument.

It is a big piece of rock. Daddy made the mistake of leaving it on the floor and then leaving the room after everyone left.

Here is what I thought of the rock:

Mommy took the rock after that. She put it on the TV set. I just sat and stared. I really wanted my Toy back.

Since then, Daddy has made the rock disappear. I have not seen it again. I guess he wanted it all to himself.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

I have so many things to share!

2011-09-08T10:42:00.001-04:00

I don’t know where to start. First, I guess I should explain why I have not posted for a while. I know I told you all about my new cousin. Well, Mommy and Daddy were asked to go and help take care of him for a bit.

They left home the day after hurricane Irene left. They spent a week in Florida with baby Jaxon and his parents.

Mommy said there were also two doggies there. This is Coral and Ochi watching people walk by the house they live in.

Ochi does not like to have his picture taken. This was the best shot Mommy could get of him.

But Coral is a lot like me. She poses for the camera. Mommy got some nice shots of her.

And of course, there are a lot of pictures of Baby Jaxon. I am sure I will be able to share more with you as time goes by.

And me? Well, I got to stay home with Meg. I got my walks, but not a lot of play time. Meg is pretty busy with school and work, but she did her best to take care of me.

Meg and I were very happy to see Mommy and Daddy come home. I barked and barked and jumped and cuddled!!! It was awsome.

Now we are trying to get caught up on everything (including my training!) I should be posting more regularly now. And hopefully I will be able to visit my friends and comment on their blogs again soon too.

Hope everyone else is doing well.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

A New Runner

2011-08-25T09:58:00.001-04:00

A couple of days ago, I showed you the frayed carpet in our studio that I had been digging at. (oh, good thing I am a puppy still!!! I can use bad grammar and no one complains!)

Well, Mommy has been frustrated by that part of the carpet for many years, so she decided to cover it in the hopes of making the room look better and discouraging my interest.

She went to the overstock store in the area and got a runner. She said it was a really good buy. She got 10 feet for $20.

She put it down while I was in my crate yesterday.

And of course, I had to check it out!

I sniffed!

And Sniffed!

And dug a bit! Mommy was not happy with my digging!

So, she has been trying to distract me with some toys!

So far, so good! The runner is in one piece still and so am I!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

BTW: I was told that Mommy’s New Nephew has a name!!! He is Jaxon Evan!!! Mommy can’t wait to see him!

Velcro Dog and Carpet issues

2011-08-23T10:34:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, on our evening walk, Mommy and I met some really nice people. They said they also had a Golden Retriever and they asked if they could pet me. Mommy of course said yes!

I did pretty well. I didn’t jump on them, so they let me see the little boy in the stroller too.

While Mommy was talking, the lady mentioned something that Mommy had never heard. The nice lady said that her GR was a “Velcro Dog”. She went on to explain that her dog is stuck by her side all the time.

Mommy said, that sort of describes me. I want Mommy’s attention all the time. I don’t like to be away from her, and I love to be close.

This is how I took a nap yesterday afternoon. I will do anything to stay close to her.

And I will do anything to get her attention too!! Even tear at the carpet in the studio where we spend most of our days.

Now, to be fair, Mommy says I should tell you this carpet is old and was frayed when I moved in. But, I have been doing some more fraying on my own.

The carpet in the Studio is two pieces of old carpet that have been there since Mommy and Daddy bought the house. The edges are really raggedy.

I figured out that if I scratch at the edges, I can get long strings to come off. It is a lot of fun and it gets Mommy to stop what she is doing and pay attention to me. I am in trouble, but I have her attention.

Mommy does not want me to do this. So, she coated the edges with mouthwash. It tastes yucky on my paws.

I am not digging quite as much. Mommy hopes this phase will pass soon.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

New Nephew and a House full of people!!

2011-08-22T10:35:00.001-04:00

I am not really sure what this is, but Mommy is really excited about it. She says her little brother had a new baby this weekend and he is her nephew.

This is Mommy’s brother UJ with the baby right after he was born, yesterday at 8:09 am

The little guy is 7 lbs, 9 ozs and 21 inches long.

UJ and Aunt Suz are still trying to decide on a name. We’ll let you know when they decide.

Company!

Meg had a party on Saturday night. Mommy and Meg spent a lot of the day cleaning, baking and moving things. Mommy said I was truly a big help with the cleaning. I followed her around while she vacuumed and dusted. And I didn’t bark at all.

Right before the party, Mommy moved all my toys back into the bedroom. I just could not figure out why!! I spent a good bit of time going back and forth from the living room to the bedroom, till Mommy closed the door.

When the first guests arrived, Mommy tried to put me in the crate in the bedroom. I didn’t want anything to do with it. I barked and barked and barked till Mommy came and got me. She put me on my headcollar and short tab leash and kept me beside her for the party.

I think there were a million people here. Most of them, I knew. I wanted to love everyone and have them all pay attention to me. Mommy said, no. I had to sit with her. So, I decided to BARK. At random times during the presentation, I just opened my mouth and spoke! Mommy was not happy.

Mommy says she should have had more people come to the house when I was little. She took me lots and lots of places so I got used to traveling, but she didn’t have a lot of people over. I guess we need to work on that situation.

Needless to say, Mommy does not have a lot of photos of the party. She was too busy holding on to me!!!

Oh well. Maybe I’ll do better next time.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

My New Mat

2011-08-19T10:44:00.001-04:00

Mommy went to the store yesterday. That was nothing special. She goes to the store almost every day.

Mommy brought something back for me. And that too, is not unusual. Mommy often brings treats for me.

But today, it was not something to eat, or to play with. It was something brown and sort of fuzzy that she spread on the floor.

Mommy calls it a “Mat”. She put it right in front of my crate like a front porch.

It is right beside where Mommy keeps all my fun toys.

At first, I just sniffed the “mat”. I got a chicken treat for that. Then I put my paws on the “mat”. I got a click and another chicken treat.

I was not sure what to do, so I scratched at the mat. Mommy didn’t like that. She sent me away from the mat. Then she let me come back.

Next, I put my paws on it again. I got more chicken treats. Then, I decided to try sitting on the mat. That got me CHEESE!!! Remember, that is my favorite treat in the world. I will do anything for CHEESE.

So……

I laid down on the MAT. And the CHEESE just kept coming.

I think I like my mat.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Relaxing with my new award

2011-08-18T10:36:00.001-04:00

Relaxing:

Mommy and I have been doing something called a “Relaxation Protocol” a lot lately. Basically, it means that I “relax” and Mommy does all sorts of crazy things around me.

As long as I stay relaxed, I keep getting treats.

It’s a pretty good deal for me, and Mommy is getting a lot of exercise doing the silly things. I really don’t mind this part of training.

My New Award:

Mommy and I are so honored to receive this award from 2 Brown Dawgs Blog. What a great way to help Mommy bounce back from her cold.

When you are given this award, one of the things you are supposed to do is tell 7 things about yourself that people don’t know. Hopefully Mommy is feeling well enough to help me find 7 things.

1. I like to walk…. now. I didn’t always. When I was a little puppy I gave Mommy quite a fit about walks. But now we take two long walks every day. Each walk is about 2 miles long.

2. I won’t touch my food bowl until Mommy gives me a kiss. Yes, I am a pretty good boy. I sit and wait while Mommy puts my bowl on the floor. Then she comes over to me and gives me a kiss on my “cheek” and I get to eat.

3. We don’t have a fenced in yard. So when we go out to play, I have to be on a leash or a tie-out. That means Mommy can’t throw things as far as I would like sometime.

4. I go to training almost every week. Mommy and I really enjoy my training classes.

5. I like to ride in the car. I get right up on the seat and settle in so that Mommy can buckle my seat belt.

6. My favorite treat is CHEESE!!! in any form. I will do anything for cheese. Even go crazy!

7. Mommy has to be careful when she gets the cheese out, because I might go crazy.

Now to pass the award on:

There are so many great blogs out there. It is really hard to choose. So I am just going to pick the two that are the newest on my list that I follow.

1. Court of Tails: Sophie and her Mommy have a lot of great things to share with all of us.

2. How Sam Sees It: These two GR’s and their family have a great sense of humor and adventure.

Thanks again for this great honor.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday–Watching!

2011-08-17T11:15:00.001-04:00

My “Paws” trick is starting to pay off. Now I can watch out the window!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

We are participating the the Wednesday blog hop. Here are our other friends that are also joining in the fun!

Mommy’s Sick Day

2011-08-15T14:58:00.001-04:00

For the past several day, Mommy has been sounding really funny. The first morning that she got up with “larry-gitice” I didn’t know who she was when she talked to me. She could not talk very loudly or for very long, but she still kept working with me.

Here is a video of Mommy working with me on Friday evening. Listen to how silly she sounds.

Mommy could not play much longer than this video. But it was fun while it lasted.

Mommy has kept going for the past several days, even though I know she was not feeling well. But yesterday, that all changed.

Mommy spent the day laying on the couch in the living room.

And I spent the day in my crate in the same room. I still have not learned to lay still beside the couch, so it was the best Mommy could think to do with me.

But in the afternoon, we did have some fun.

Mommy went down in workroom and got my blue ball.

She figured out that she could sit on the couch and throw the ball down the hallway, and I would chase it. We did this for quite a few hours yesterday evening and last night. I was so tired when we went to bed, I could not even open my eyes to say good night to Mommy.

Today, Mommy feel better. We are back in the work room and I have all my toys around. Hopefully Mommy does not overdo it. And hopefully life will get back to normal soon. I don’t like it when Mommy is sick!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

The one that Stayed!

2011-08-11T10:30:00.001-04:00

The other day, I started telling you the story of my new water dish.

This was the temporary dish that Mommy was trying to replace. I used to have one of those things that look like a water cooler that the people use. But Mommy was afraid that it was so old, it might be part of what made me sick two weeks ago.

We tried one model, but it had some issues. You can check out that story, here.

Then we tried this one.

Mommy brought it home early in the day, and the box sat in the kitchen for a few hours. Daddy wanted to be the one to put it together for me. I stayed down stairs most of the time with Mommy, but when I did come upstairs, I had to wait in my crate

because Daddy made a mess with all the packaging,

Once it was all cleaned up, I got to check out the NEW waterfall.

This is what it looks like without my nose in it. Notice on the right side at the bottom of the bowl, there is a lever. That controls how much water falls down the ramp. I really like it to be a lot of water.

First, I had to sniff….

But it didn’t take me long to put my nose in…

And take a good long drink!!!!!

I LOVE MY NEW WATER BOWL!!!! Thanks, Mommy and Daddy!!!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

One Word Wednesday–Pawty!

2011-08-10T08:03:00.001-04:00

Today is a special day! My friend Sugar, the Golden Retriever turns 10 years old today! I want to wish her a Happy Barkday with my happy, smiling face.

If you want to join in the Pawty, click this link and wish Sugar a happy day too!!

Tomorrow, I will finish my post about my new water dish. Today, I am going to Pawty!

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner

Kitchen Water Feature

2011-08-09T13:25:00.001-04:00

This is what I have been drinking from for the past several days. It is a far cry from the big water container that used to sit here. But Mommy was concerned that the old one might not be the best for me. Even though she tried to keep it clean, she was having trouble telling if the black marks in it were from our hard water, or something else. So, she decided to get rid of it.

After two trips to the store yesterday, Mommy came back with this:

She said she picked it because of the way it moved the water. This is the photo on the side of the box that showed her how it worked.

She also liked the fact that the water jug was smaller and she could keep it filled by herself (Mommy is not allowed to lift heavy things)

When she got it set up, I could not wait to give it a try.

She put it in the place where my old water dish has always sat.

It has a waterfall on it!!! And the water was nice and clean!

I didn’t even mind the noise that it makes. I just kept drinking!!!

However, Mommy said there was a problem with this fountain. When you first turned it on, a good amount of water came down the waterfall. But as time went on, it got less and less till it finally stopped. The motor kept turning, but the water was not moving.

So, Daddy took it apart. He found out why it would not work right.

This is what the underside of the motor looks like. Notice that thing sticking up in the middle? It is shaped like a backward “D”.

This is the place were that “D” shaped thing is supposed to connect. If you notice, it is round, not “D” shaped. Daddy said he thinks it is a manufacturing defect. Mommy said she would take it back and get something else.

So here is what she got today.

Mommy says it holds a bit more water and has a pump. Daddy said he will put it together shortly. I’ll let you know tomorrow how this one goes.

Puppy Kisses,

Tanner