White Dog Diary Online

February 15, 2012

2012-02-15T20:55:00.001-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army
Wonderful World Wednesday

White Dogand TheWhite Dog Army are grateful to the brave men and women who serve in our armedforces. It is an act of patriotism that should be repaid with support, respect,and understanding; instead US vets find themselves among the highest groups ofunemployed and lacking the programs to facilitate healing and re-entry intocivilian life.

While theWDA prays for the day when there is no longer a need for military force anywherein the world, we feel that those who serve in this age should not be forgottenof left behind. Our nation has an obligation to make sure that those returningfrom the raw edges of civilization, the battle zones, and the horrors suchconflict generates have an opportunity to re-find a world that is wonderful.

White Dog believesthe best way to a help vets reconnect to the wonders around us is throughgrassroots efforts…neighbors reaching out a hand, businesses offering anopportunity, the community creatively finding ways to help. Here is the storyof one family who is providing a wonderful chance to those in need…

TroubledVeterans Find New Work on the Farm

By Good NewsNetwork Saturday, February 11, 2012

A Marine sergeant and his wife have invited dozens of warveterans returning from the front lines to tend the crops and learn new skills,finding solace on their farm.

Archie's Acres grows organic produce in Southern Californiaand teaches veterans how to nurture plants and create business plans toeventually help them become independent in the high growth industry ofsustainable agriculture. Over 100 vetshave benefitted from the vision of Colin and Karen Archipley.

Colin and Karen developed Archi’sAcres ™, their small family farm, into a working, hydroponic, organic farm thatused up to 90% less water and harvested organic produce 17 times a year – twicethe conventional yield. They learned how to make “liquid dirt,” and farmbacteria. They sold their living basil to local healthy alternative groceries.They also sold Siberian kale, lettuce, citrus and their avocados at thefarmer’s market. They met their neighboring farmers and loved their new life.

Colin knew veterans need helptransitioning to civilian life, beyond what the VA can provide. At any giventime, there are a quarter of a million veterans living on the streets, in partdue to combat stress, and/or the brain injuries that roadside bombs caninflict. That same number of veterans, 250,000, have requested mental healthtreatment. Sadly, veteran joblessness is twice the national average, at 17%.

“We felt the need to address thisissue,” Colin says. “Job opportunities have been few and far between foreverybody, and the skills many have learned in the military don’t alwaystranslate directly into civilian life. The veteran community is a uniqueresource,” he adds. “But many U.S. employers aren’t tapping into it. Themilitary teaches great leadership skills, a solid work ethic, and a uniqueability to think on your feet.”

Our country needs a million newfarmers over the next ten years. According to a USDA 2007 report, 65.8% of smallfarmer operators are over 55 and only 4.1% percent are younger than 35. Karenadds, “There’s also the challenge of high-tech crop production. Farming is noteasy; you have to be able to stay flexible, stay with it, hang tough. Every dayis different; it can be an adrenaline rush. Combat vets are really good atthat.”

Colin and Karen created the VeteransSustainability Agriculture Training ™ (VSAT ™). This unique program wouldrecreate the closeness of the unit outside of the military and teach veteransall the farming skills the Archipleys had acquired.

There would also be the healthbenefits. Six weeks immersed in the VSAT ™ program at Archi’s Acres ™ providesthe down time that facilitates a much smoother transition out of urban warfare.Between the classroom and the greenhouses, veterans gather what they need toknow to get started on their own. Trainees can interact with the public atFarmer’s Markets, and experience the positive feedback and connection to theirmission. Before they leave Archi’s Acres ™ trainees create market plans,checked out by business leaders. And it works…Oneof the vets now owns his own hot sauce company after being homeless for twoyears.

Archi's Acres-Colin and Karen Archipley from Raymond Singer on Vimeo.

February 14, 2012 Pillars of Strength

2012-02-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

White Dog celebrates her seventh Gotcha Day today. Our Baby Girl, the Little White Dog of My Heart, has been with us since she was barely 8 weeks old. Our fluffy tumbling bundle of love has grown into a cosmopolitan lady with a compassionate view of the world and an intense desire to make a difference. She has opened her heart and home to what has become the White Dog Army...five senior Eskies who have lived through tough lives...not an easy thing for a spoiled only child. She is determined and fearless and committed.

Siku, and all of the WDA, have become rabid crusaders in the war against cancer because it simply must be stopped. We have seen too many taken too soon. Too many families have had giant holes ripped into their hearts by losses to this monster. Cancer.Touches.Everyone. White Dog works tirelessly toward the day when the c beast has no more power and can hurt no more.

As we fight to increase awareness and research funding, we recognize the incredible Warriors who have fought--and are fighting valiantly--taking on the battle personally as they struggle with the enemy living inside their bodies. To us there are no braver or more noble or more exemplary Heroes to be found.

We are honored to know and stand in solidarity with so many champions but at the same time are saddened that these finest hearts must be so horribly tested.

One of our friends, K and her heart human KB, are at this very moment together facing down the c monster in the most amazingly glorious way of living in the moment. They are truly an inspiration as they push away the fear to greet the sunrise joyously...to porpoise through the deep mountain snow...to truly live the adage that each day is a present. Through them we have learned so much about the important things. Each day we ask the Universe to bless K and her human with a crystal clear moment of unconditional love and shared bliss

It is K and so many two- and four-leggeds in similar battles that teach us the elegance of refusing to surrender; it is they who provide a framework for hope...and a reason to fight what sometimes seems like an impossible to win fight. It is to K we promise that we walk beside her through it all and continue without rest until Cancer.Touches.No One.

Happy Gotcha Day, Siku Marie! Today, with I hope K's blessing, we celebrate life and hope and love.

February 14, 2012

2012-02-13T22:05:00.002-07:00

White Dog looked at the clock. "Three...two...one," she counted down and Pumpkin pulled into the driveway. "Dad is home!"

February 12, 2012

2012-02-13T16:32:00.001-07:00

White Dog was tagged by her friend Nola, ofDachshund Nola to answer the following questions. Since Tuesday is her GotchaDay White Dog has declared the entire week will be focused on her, so she alonewill answer the questions (the White Dog Army has graciously agreed… thanks tobribery and threats). Thank you Nola! Now here we go!

1. Describe yourself in 7 words: white, commanding, floofy, sophisticated,worldly, philosophical and compassionate… (Puff: She left out “bossy”)

2. What keeps you up at night? If momma can’tsleep or if one of the White Dog Army is sick or restless I stay on alert. Ifthere are sirens or loud booms that scare me awake, I need to be held before Ican rest again…(YoYoMa: If I make the tiniest crunching gnawing noises nomminga bone in the night, WD wakes up and doesn’t go back to sleep until I stop andif I start again, she growls).

3. Who would you like to be? I truly likebeing me. My life is good and I am pampered. But sometimes I wish I were morepowerful and able to fix the things that are wrong in the world, like cancerand hatred.

4. What are you wearing right now? When youhave been gifted with the softest, silkiest furs imaginable and beautiful blackrimmed eyes, you only need to accentuate the perfection. I am wearing a simpleblack collar with all my vital tag information. Oh, does it count that I amwrapped up in the white afghan Cappy and Ollie’s mom made for me?

5. What scares you? Dogs that just run upand want to thrust their noses where they do not belong. The trees rakingacross the roof during wind storms. Thunder and fireworks and loud noises ingeneral. Michael when he yells… (Quinn: sometimes Michael cannot help gettingangry, it is part of his disability, but she is right, it CAN be scary)!

6. The best and worst of blogging? The bestpart of blogging is sitting with Momma and talking about our post. Sometimes itis just the two of us; sometimes the entire Army joins in. It is really specialtime because we know we are sending a daily message out to an amazing family ofbloggers; so we want what we say to be genuine and real and to remind them howvery grateful we are that they choose to follow our journey.

The worst part of blogging is that momma isnot much of a photographer so sometimes I think our posts are boring comparedto those in our community who have a better eye through the lens. It helps whendad is around to take pictures… (Nuka: but momma makes the best paintings, ifonly she worked fast enough to illustrate ~~our~~ your blog).

7. Last website you've visited? www.2milliondogs.org The 2 MillionDogs Walkto End Canine Cancer website; momma has begun planning the 2012 New MexicoWalk.

8. One thing you'd change about yourself? Iguess I would try to be a bit more understanding of the baggage my brothers andsisters brought with when they joined the WDA. They are all rescues and havehad hard times. I have had the goodfortune to be a child of privilege and no hardship so sometimes I have a difficult time with their weird quirks…(WDA: wewere going to say we had a list for you, White Dog, but your answer is so sweetwe will just say “thanks.”)

9. Slankets or no? With my double fur coat,I will pass. It might be the perfect choice for some of my short-haired orhairless friends…or maybe momma who is always cold!

10. Tell us something about the dog orperson that tagged you: Nola is a world-wise dachshund (like my dad grew upwith) in Florida who has a whole bunch of siblings just like me…who is a diva,just like me…and eats homemade food, just like me…and loves ruling her cornerof the world, because the rest of the Universe is MINE!

February 11, 2012

2012-02-11T22:53:00.001-07:00

White Dog and the others already know that they will be unable to eat the spicy cuisine of tomorrow's Ethiopian fest at our house BUT trust the White Dog Army to figure out a way to make the best of a situation.

Once the chicken and beef and lamb are slow cooked with the intense spice blends characteristic of this African cooking, the dishes will fall outside the range of "safely digestible" for White Dog tummies. But in order to make the stews (wats) there is leg of lamb to cube, and beef to thinly slice, and chicken to debone...plenty of opportunities for a nibble from the butcher...or a quick saute of scraps from a tender hearted Steve to be added into dinner tonight.

And after, a pup can lie in the kitchen doorway, snooter pointed toward the stove, deeply inhaling the smells of browning vegetables, broth simmering, and exotic spices sizzling in oil. A taste of injera bread, just because White Dogs are the most pampered pups on the planet, and a nibble of the aiyab cheese (that I made) were enough to make everyone happy and contented and ready to doze.

February 10, 2012

2012-02-11T14:34:00.003-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army have come to enjoy our "Fridays-Are-Saturdays" and the uncrowded access to their favorite places that playing while the rest of the world works brings. So it was with mixed emotions that they heard Steve's news that next quarter, starting in mid-March, he is going back to a normal Monday through Friday teaching week. He will once again have Saturdays and Sundays free...as does nearly everyone else. This will allow us, as the weather grows nicer, to plan more weekend get-aways but the WDA will now have to share Saturday trips to the Park with the other weekenders who sometimes crowd the spaces. Unfortunately, Steve's new schedule does not eliminate the two late nights of teaching but they at least will not be back-to-back.

"OK but that is the future," Quinn pointed out. "Let's enjoy THIS Friday-is-Saturday!"

Mid-morning on this Friday, the pet store was deserted so we all got a chance to visit with Lisa, the owner, and taste-test some new treats she was carrying. We were also able to stock up on the Fromm's bedtime snacks so that the storage bin did not run dry at home.

Back in Pumpkin we headed for the Duck Pond Park...deserted except for a couple of moms with toddlers (who absolutely cooed with delight at the White Dogs). The runners, YoYoMa and Puff, got a thorough workout lead by White Dog as they sprinted, then cantered, then flat out ran across the grass. When they returned to the van, the strollers, Quinn and Nuka, put Steve through his cool down paces as they purposefully and unhurriedly took in the sights and smells and paused to watch the ducks.

All the duck jerky on the ~~hoof~~ web made the WDA drooliciously hungry so we detoured to lunch at Rincon del Pollo, our favorite taco shack. When the nice lady behind the counter learned that "Los Unos Blancos" were no longer eating chicken, she waved a finger at Steve. "Then I will make them what? Cheese and bistek and refried beans? Yes for my precious ones!" And she came around the counter to give hugs to each of the White Dogs. We sat in the warm sunlight and feasted; the pups on their individual tacos, Steve and I enjoying the spicy house specialty, green chile chicken burritos.

Even at Costco, the WDA drew attention. Steve ran in to pick up coffee and duck jerky as the Army and I watched the shoppers go by from Pumpkin's side door. A man came up and jokingly asked if I wanted to get rid of any of the dogs. "Not ever! This is my family!" It turns out that he is looking for the perfect dog to help fill his life. His wife had died and he was lonely. He wanted a dog who would lay out in the yard and be with him while he worked in his garden. We talked a bit as he petted the White Dogs. We all wished him luck in finding the best companion ever and suggested a few rescues to visit. Puff whispered, "I know he will make some dog a great forever family."

Followup checkups at Dr. Julia's gave Nuka an "all clear" on her ear infection. Puff's lungs are clear and congestion free; that is the good news. The bad is that her heart is slightly enlarged (age combined with lingering weakness from her bout with heartworms) so she is now on two heart medications (yes, our hardest to get pills down now has TWO pills twice a day)! She must see the vet again next week.

By the time we got home and the White Dog Army sampled the new bag of duck jerky (paws up!), everyone was ready to nap. No one even seemed to mind as Steve and I dressed for an evening of dinner and a dance performance out.

February 9, 2012

2012-02-09T21:57:00.004-07:00

White Dog put on her Sherlock Holmes hat and got out her magnifying glass. "What are you doing?" I looked up from the computer to ask. "There is a mystery under foot and I mean to get to the bottom of it!" she responded. "Mmmmm, OK. Good luck. Have fun." and I went back to work.

A while later I took a break and found White Dog sprawled on the bed, deep in thought. "How's the sleuth business?" "Well I have a bunch of clues but none of the witnesses are talking and I can't find any physical evidence. I am stumped. Have any cocaine?" "WHAT!!!!" I cried in alarm. "Well Sherlock Holmes uses when he can't figure things..." "Well, White One, you can forget that strategy! Are you trying to give your momma a heart attack?" "I was just trying to get into character," she said contritely, "and I wasn't serious." "That is nothing to joke about!"

"So what is the case that has you in such a dither?"

"There is something...somewhere that ALL of the White Dog Army (except me) is getting into. Did you notice that both Nuka and Quinn have faint stains on the exact same place on their right hips? And Puff and YoYoMa both have mysterious streaks along the right sides of their necks? It doesn't smell like cat poop. It is not sticky yet it smears. It doesn't just rub off. It is not dirt. It reappeared even though dad washed up both Nuka and YoYoMa yesterday before he went to work. And Michael has done a fine job at his yard patrol cleanup this week.

"I asked the WDA to fill me in on their activities, you know, what they have been doing, where they have been going...but everyone says the same thing...stuff...here and there. I looked over all over the house and the yard...nothing. I checked every one's beds and blankets...nada. I have even resorted to hiding under the agility A-Frame hoping to catch them unawares. No luck. So I am laying here on the bed where I can see into the yard but they can't see me...but of course everyone is in the living room napping.

"Little White Dog of My Heart, you are obsessing and losing perspective. You don't need drugs; you need to set this aside for a while and take a nap yourself. Refreshed you might think of a new angle and things will become clearer. Don't give up but but take a break...and if you find the answer please let me know; I was sort of wondering, too.!"

February 8, 2012

2012-02-08T18:33:00.001-07:00

WhiteDog and The White Dog Army

WonderfulWorld Wednesday

White Dog and The White Dog Army firmly believe that one ofthe keys to creating a more wonderful world is raising children who are caring,compassionate, giving, and willing to step up the often difficult challenges ofmaking a difference. We further hold that Adult humans can learn important lessons by observing theyoung ones and the furred ones nd their natural instincts to do the "right thing." Noah Lamaide is one such child. He is alreadymaking the world a better place at nine-years-old. Imagine what he will becapable of in 20 years. His mother and grandmother should be proud of thisamazing boy who is the product of their own belief in giving forward…and theentire family fills the White Dog Army with hope. Please read their story…

By ALYSSA NEWCOMB Feb.8, 2012 ABC News

The cost of renovations to a century-old home that has beenin the family for three generations brought a Wisconsin woman perilously closeto eviction, until her 12-year-old grandson stepped in.

"I wasn't even sure I was going to make it," NoahLamaide said of his fundraising effort. The budding philanthropist raised $10,500 in the course ofa month, saving his grandmother's Stevens Point home from a scheduledauction date of Feb. 15. Donations camefrom those living in his town to as faras California.

Janice Sparhawk, 72, fell behind on mortgage payments in2010 after taking out money to put a new roof on her home, a home with richfamily history, partially built by her grandfather and the birthplace of her mother.Sparhawk had first turned to the government for help, but when it officialsdidn't come back to her with a payment program options, Noah stepped in,according to ABC.

"My Grandmain case you don't know her has a heart of gold. She has given so much to ourcommunity since I can remember!!!" Noah posted Jan. 5, 2012, on hiswebsite, Noah's Dream Catcher Network.

Sparhawk, who has served as a foster parent to hundreds ofWisconsin children, also found herself unable to work after complications fromeye surgery and severe asthma, making it even more difficult to make up whatshe owed. Noah Lamaide raised $10,500 through his website, Noah's DreamCatcherNetwork, to help save his grandmother's home after she fell behind on mortgagepayments. “It means a lot to be here inmy house" she said. "[Noah] is a special boy."

"He's always putting others before himself, even as alittle child," Noah's mother, Jill Sparhawk Lamaide, said. "I thinkhe got it from seeing the foster kids come into my mom's home. A majority ofthem said I wish, 'I could be Noah.'" Janice Sparhawk said the family has"never lived a life without somebody else in it," whether that meantserving as a foster family or doing charity work. The example rubbed off onNoah.

It started with a challenge Lamaide's mother made to herthen 9-year-old son: do one community service project each year. For most 9year olds, forgoing birthday gifts for donations to a food bank would result ina tantrum. For Noah, however, it was just the right thing to do. "In ourhome, I encourage teamwork. We're not just a family, we're a team," JillSparhawk Lamaide said. With the help of his mother, Noah created the website tohelp raise money for the budding philanthropist's projects.

Noah fell short of his goal last year to send a familyfriend with cancer, her husband and daughter to Disneyland. The friend's motherdied before the family could make the trip. "He was a little discouragedby that," Lamaide said. The girl left on the trip with her father two weeksago. Lamaide has also organized a picnic for veterans.

The budding philanthropist said he has yet to identify hisnext project but promised to keep making a difference.

"It just makes me feel happy and like I did somethingto help the world," he said.

February 7, 2012

2012-02-07T18:21:00.001-07:00

White Dog gently laid her paw on my hand and said, "Don't be too rough on her, she is just excited." I had Nuka, our Birthday Girl in my lap and was lecturing her about her bad manners.

We woke to the early morning sound of Nuka yipping and rousing her brothers and sisters out of bed: "Come on get up Lazies, it is my Birthday and you have to do EVERYTHING I say!" Those who ignored her received a straight in the ear personal blast to get up and moving. She shoved everyone aside during the morning greeting ritual and demanded her Angel tiara be placed on her head.

"Today is MY day so you just all better get used to it is all about ME!" AWD announced.

Steve made pancakes for breakfast and Nuka Not-Such-An-Angel snarled at the others approaching to ask for bites...despite the fact that she had her own whole one. "This is MINE!" Quinn walked away, tail drooping. Puff went and sat in her crate.

That is when I had a little intervention. "Bossy One, yes it is your birthday but it is going to your head. It is a day that your family and friends want to share and celebrate with you not be ordered about and picked on. You are making everyone sad and the day is barely started. I am going to take your crown for now so that you remember you are a part of the pack. You can go with dad on a solo ride and while you are out, I want you to think of how lonely a one-person party is. When you return we will all be waiting to start again and truly celebrate how wonderful you are and how grateful we are in that you are part of The White Dog Army." With that I kissed her (she grumbled) and sent her off with Steve to run a few errands.

When they returned, Nuka nuzzled each of the others as they greeted her and sang "Happy Barkday." "THAT'S my girl!" I told her. Things were now on the right track...so we headed out for a stroll down Central, a visit to Dawg Gone Good for cookies, some time at the Park, and a final walk through the neighborhood before Steve had to head off to work. We waved "hurry home" and when we could no longer see the car, had some duck jerky. YoYoMa gave his sister one of his heart stuffies to lay on while all napped.

While the Birthday Girl got some rest, the rest of the White Dog Army helped me bake a special birthday treat for our 11-year-old Nuka. By the time she woke up, the house was filled with smell of fresh bran muffins iced with pumpkin and cottage cheese. They will be served this evening as we all gather to watch the DVD, Marley & Me, (which is Nuka's favorite film) as we wait for Steve's return.

HAPPY BARKDAY NUKA ANGEL MARIE!
We love you and celebrate the day you were born.

February 6, 2012

2012-02-06T22:18:00.002-07:00

White Dog,Quinn, Puff and YoYoMa LOVED the idea of stretching Nuka's birthday into a two-day celebration. Since her day, tomorrow, is one of Steve's late nights, the Army feared Another White Dog would be cheated of her official birthday dinner.

So we had a party tonight at dinner, serving some of Nuka's favorites (as described and chosen by her sisters and brothers). We started out with our new "usual" dog meal.

It is new because the vet believes that at least Nuka and possibly YoYoMa are allergic to chicken (corn and chicken are the two most common dog allergies). So we have switched to fish, mackerel (thank dog for the Asian market in our neighborhood which has them whole and inexpensive). this fish is full of all kinds of Omega-3 goodness and is hypo-allergenic. We boiled it with brown rice, flaked it up, added mixed veggies, some blueberries, and raw oats and voila! A new WDA favorite (although White Dog still needs a little coaxing before devouring her bowl).

After the "ap-pup-tizer" we had shrimp cocktail, truly one of our Florida girl's top five menu hits. No sauce for her, she likes them neat...tails and all. Only YoYoMa really enjoyed the spanakopita (spinach in filo dough) although everyone gave it a try. The WDA practiced singing the "Happy Barkday To You" song just so things will be perfectly in harmony for tomorrow's continuation. To set the mood and build anticipation, Nuka got a spoonful of ice cream (on a metal spoon!).

Tuesdays Steve is home until nearly 2pm, so we plan to dress up Nuka Angel in her best clothes, harness up the Army, go on a "show-off" walk down Central past all of the chic boutiques, and stop at Dawg Gone Good for a suitable birthday nosh. Then the Birthday Girl...

STOP! White Dog yelped!

Don't tell it all! What if Nuka reads this? What if someone spoils the surprise, Sen-ge who can't keep a secret? Just say there will be lots of fun before dad goes to work...and maybe a few things after.

My lips are sealed and my fingers officially silenced.

February 5, 2012

2012-02-05T22:14:00.002-07:00

White Dog sat on the bed and watched me layer on clothes in anticipation the The White Dog Army's Sunday rendezvous with Dragon, Sen-ge and their Parents for a walk through the Bosque. It was cold, even at nearly 10am. I insisted that Nuka and Puff (still getting over an ear infection and congestion) wear their heavy jackets. Nuka didn't mind; she loves dressing up. Still Another White Dog sighed in resignation as Steve slipped her jacket over her head and helped her legs through. After three minutes of trying to shake it off, Puff accepted the warmth and actually appreciated the coverage. Quinn opted to stay home and sleep in; the cold is not his forte plus he craved alone time.

At the Bosque the extended WDA briskly trotted out along the cottonwood lined path. Once warmed up, they did a bit of exploring off the trail and the humans took time to pick off briars and burrs. The Army was drawn to the river and hopped over water filled crevices to forge onward. It is not easy to keep pretty pink jackets and white paws clean as you traipse along the muddy riverbank. YoYoMa impressed everyone by leaping confidently and landing cleanly. The finishing 1000 yards or so back to the car was a flat out race with pups dragging panting humans behind. It is clear as we head into Spring and better outdoor weather just WHO really needs the exercise part of our Sunday get-togethers most.

February 4, 2012

2012-02-04T16:22:00.002-07:00

White Dog, Siku Marie; The Mighty Quinn; Nuka Angel; Puff the Magical; and YoYoMa have a special request for today.

Today, February 4, Is World Cancer Day.

You all know our dedication to finding an end to the c monster's reign of terror which has touched everyone with its pain and horror and heartbreak. We fight in every way we can think of to advance the awareness and research and courage that will ultimately lead to victory. But today we ask something more personal, we need you to help fight the war on a more intimate level.

We have so many friends in our own community who are bravely battling and cancer touches people in every corner of life. In honor of World Cancer Day, please reach out to someone--two- or four-legged-- who is suffering with this devastating disease. Let them know you stand at their side with support and hope. Give them strength and understanding. Share the power of love and friendship.

The c monster can throw an awful blanket of isolation, fear, and hopelessness over those brave Warriors and their families. Count coup on the evil beast by reaching through the veil to extend a hand of comfort that powerfully says, "You are not alone!"

Your voice has the power to make a difference. Together we can make cures possible. And one day the White Dog Army's prayer to the Universe, "Let Cancer.Touch.NoOne" will be answered.

February 3, 2012

2012-02-03T22:21:00.001-07:00

White Dog and the others looked up as Steve leashed Quinn and headed out to Pumpkin with him. There was a half wag from the remaining Army as they sought to be considered to go along. "Really," I said, "Quinn is going to the groomer. Dad has other things in store for you."

The plan was that Steve would drop The Other White Dog off, go to his business meeting, and return for the rest of the White Dog Army. We would all then go to the Park and let off a bit of steam. Then we would go to the groomer's where Steve would help them finish up Quinn and give YoYoMa a bath and nail trim. This was to be Yet Another White Dog's first spa visit and Steve wanted to be there to be sure he was calm and comfortable.

At the Park, White Dog , Puff, Nuka, and YoYoMa enjoyed the Saturday-on-Friday good fortune of a deserted playground where they could run in the grass and enjoy the beautiful New Mexico sunshine. Since we still had a bit of time after, the pups got an ice cream treat before heading over to the Spa.

Ever since Quinn had his one and only seizure a couple of months back, he has had "panic attacks" where he gets very nervous, almost manic. During these short periods he becomes hyperactive and has on occasion, nipped. Sometimes there is an obvious cause like loud noises, other times he just seems to become fearful. We have found that holding him loosely and repeating his name as we pet him or give him treats helps break the panic and he slowly calms down. We are reluctant to medicate him until it becomes necessary for his safety, that of the others, or ours.

During the grooming process (with the girls who have cared for him ever since he joined the WDA) Quinn is usually fine with bathing and combing out. Steve arranges to be there for the finishing touches as a reassurance. In the past, this has worked flawlessly. Today, there was something about the experience that set our boy off. When Steve arrived the girls mentioned that TOWD had been very agitated and when Steve held him in order to complete the grooming, Quinn panicked and bit Steve. Fortunately he got mostly watch band but he did break skin. Quinn had to be muzzled to finish up. By the time Steve brought Quinn out to the car, TOWD was happy and prancing again, fear abated, all was good. YoYoMa, who I worried about because of his blindness and jumpy reactions to sudden movement, was a champ. He was patient and calm and in no time was done...Steve spared him the noise of being blown dried.

Back home the girls all sniffed the boys and found them to be fresh and floofy; they nuzzled and nosed their approval. Quinn was exhausted and slept most of the afternoon...and the others thought his lead was a good one.

Looking down at the peacefully sleeping Mighty Quinn as I cleaned and bandaged Steve's bite, I worried what the future holds for him. But I whispered a promise to him that no matter what, we are here to help him through whatever he faces...for always.

February 2, 2012

2012-02-02T21:36:00.003-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army could sense the weirdness in the weather and were unsettled by it. The bright sunny morning clouded over and a wind blew up only to clear up to sunshine again by lunchtime. As we ate we noticed the temperature dropping and once again the sky became ominous. When Michael came in he reported some snowflakes. Again we had been teased. The sun came back out for a beautiful sunset and things seemed to warm up again.

The unpredictability of what was happening outside crept into the house...and the behavior of the White Dog Army. After enjoying a morning with Steve, the White Ones paced and whined when he left. Finally all found a comfortable spot and napped. As they woke, each was needy and demanded attention which I am always more than happy to give, but they jostled and pushed and got impatient as they waited for a turn at petting and cooing and cuddling. It became more of a competition than a lovefest.

Duck jerky only made them more forgetful of their manners and courtesy and they nearly lost their treat privileges for the day. Instead, we practiced "Down, Leave Its!" in order to think about good behaviors before getting jerky rewards. After, each harrumphed past the others and found a corner in which to sulk/nap.

When Steve arrived home mid-sunset, he encountered a transformed WDA. All rushed to the door to welcome him but there was a sense of community as the swarm carried him over to the couch where all could gather around to greet him. As we made dinner, each pup supervised a different activity and all minded manners not to shove or overstep. During the meal, the White Ones laid quietly at our feet accepting of the fact that chicken mole was a meal that could not be shared.

As Steve looked around at the choir of floofy White Angels surrounding us he said, "I thought you said..." "Guess I must have misunderstood," I replied (and I swear White Dog winked).

February 1, 2012

2012-02-01T19:24:00.000-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army

Wonderful World Wednesday

White Dog andthe White Dog Army are inspired by two powerful sayings that we keep posted inthe office:

“No one cando Everything, but Every One can do SOME Thing…”

… and thestory of the boy rescuing starfish on the beach. He is told he is never goingto save the lives of all of the stranded fish. His reply as he returned yetanother to the sea, “Yes, but I sure made a difference to THAT one!”

The WDAbelieves that one person, two or four-legged, CAN make the world a better placewith an action that may not even be noticed as extraordinary and, further, wethink these actions form a chain of positivity and goodness that can take yourbreath away with the strength of its magic.

Considerthis story of a pup saved from death because a rescue group posted his photo, afather who would not settle for “no”who saw in the picture "something", and the dog who has made a major differenceto a dying boy.

Experts Said it Wouldn't Work, But Rescue Dog andDying 4-yr-old Boy Proved Them Wrong

By MichelleLeifer, Vetstreet.com Wednesday, February 01, 2012 republished from Good News Network

As nearly anyone who has adopted a pet from ashelter can attest, there’s something special about a rescued animal; it’s asif they can sense they’ve been given a second chance at life. That’s certainlythe case with Juno, a Belgian Malinois who was adopted just days before she wasto be euthanized. But since coming to live with her family in Alcoa, Tenn.,she, herself, has taken on the role of rescuer to a dying boy whom expertsbelieved was not suited for any service dog.

Four-year-old Lucas Hembree suffers from Sanfilipposyndrome, an inherited, metabolic disease that causes children to lose theability to speak, walk and eat. The disease also causes severe neurologicaldamage that leads to aggressive behavior, hyperactivity and seizures.

With no cure or treatment currently available, Lucasisn’t expected to live past the age of 15 and may be in a vegetative state bythe time he is eight. Realizing that every moment is extra precious, Chesterand his wife, Jennifer, wanted their son to experience as much as he couldwhile still having the capacity to enjoy life.

When the disease started to take a toll on Lucas’joints, Chester looked into getting a service dog to keep Lucas steady when hewalked. “I was told that a service dog would cost at least $15,000, and thatLucas wasn’t a good candidate because of his deteriorating abilities and hisbehavior,” Chester says. “I refused to accept this answer.”

A combination of prayer and persistence led Chesterto Juno. “I came across a posting about her on a rescue group’s website,” hesays. “I had the feeling in my gut that I had to go see this dog.” The wholefamily made the two-hour trip to meet Juno, who was being held at an eastTennessee shelter. “She was emaciated, and was days away from beingeuthanized,” Chester says.

“She had been surrendered to the shelter because herprevious owners didn’t understand the breed.” Fortunately, Chester did. He’dgotten to know and love the Belgian Malinois while working as a law enforcementofficer years earlier. “I loved their desire to work and their ‘never quit’attitude

The Hembrees brought Juno home and showered her withlove and affection. From the beginning there seemed to be something instinctiveabout their relationship. One day, Chester noticed Juno circling Lucas while hewas in his wheelchair. “She was whining and nudging him with her nose,” Chestersays. “I checked his oxygen levels and they were very low.” After giving himoxygen, Lucas returned to normal and Juno greeted him with licks and affection.“That’s when I knew she had the ability to pick up on his neurologicalchanges,” Chester says. “Now she alerts us when Lucas is about to have a seizureor if his oxygen levels drop really low. She has saved him several times."

Juno has become a literal shoulder for Lucas to leanon when walking, and a calming influence when he becomes agitated. And whileChester makes sure that Juno gets time off, he says that it’s hard to get Junoto leave Lucas’ side. “You don’t see one without the other close by,” he says.“It really feels like it was meant to be.”

To learn more about Lucas you can go to the Facebookpage his dad writes about Lucas.

January 31, 2012

2012-01-31T19:52:00.001-07:00

White Dog, Quinn, and YoYoMa helped Steve hold down the fort this morning...getting breakfast, cuddling the sickies, getting as much as possible conveniently set-up before Steve left for his late night. Nuka, Puff, and I huddled together, miserable, and took advantage of being fussed over.

Nuka is fighting an ear infection. Dr. Julia packed BOTH ears with medicated gel and now our girl is becoming goopy-headed as the medicine does its task. It also makes AWD very sleepy and crabby (she does not like the sensations of the itchiness and stuff filling her ear cavities. Nuka had chronic infections in her earlier life and they are the cause of her deafness. She has had but a few since joining the WDA but once she gets one, it is really tough to clear up. She goes back to the vet for a followup in two weeks. We hope she is feeling better LONG before that.

Poor Puff is enduring another cycle of congestion (a chronic result of her heartworm battle) and was up all night hacking and coughing. The demands on her little body exhaust her. this morning we finally got her to swallow a cough suppressant and will try for a second one tonight. Puff is the most stubborn creature on the planet when it comes to taking pills. No matter what it is hidden in she can maneuver around it and hold the pill in the side of her mouth until she can spit it out. And forget putting it way back in her throat and holding her snout shut until she swallows; SAWD can seeming go for 45 minutes without the need. It is less stressful and thus, better for her cough, if Dr. Julia just administers an antibiotic injection...which she will do tomorrow morning when we take Puff to see her. the shot usually clears things up within a week.

One of the curses of teaching, Steve believes, is that you are exposed to lots more colds and germs than one would encounter in a typical office. Plus since many of his students are parents, he also gets chain exposed to the sickies that the parents get from their kids who get germified from other kids at THEIR schools. I managed to avoid the wave that passed through our house a couple of weeks ago when both Steve and Michael succumbed, but this morning my pounding eyesockets, throbbing eardrum and pulsing right side jaw told me I have a sinus infection. Thank dogness for the WDA and their understanding! They sat around me and kept watch but made no demands other than duck jerky during the lunch hour. They did not mind my moaning; in fact the sounds brought them over to gently nose my knee and lick my hand. They even did a subdued version of "MAIL CALL!" Best of all, White Dog did not mind at all sitting at my shoulder so I could press the painful side of my face into her fur (the pressure made everything ache less).

Puff, Nuka and I are so grateful to White Dog and the boys for taking such good care of us. When Steve gets home, we will be sure he knows what capable, caring paws he left us in.

January 30, 2012

2012-01-30T21:57:00.002-07:00

White Dog and the rest of the White Dog Army do not understand why Steve must leave home and go to the office...he has everything he needs right here...including 5 VERY demanding bosses! The WDA hates Mondays...

Please go visit Amber de Weenie and read about her momma's fantastic idea for a Blog to Honor our friends and loved ones who have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. This would be a lovely tribute site for our entire community to participate in and cherish. Check out what she has built so far, www.ourrainbowfriends.blogspot.com

The WDA wants to remind you not to forget the auction to help Ava the bait dog and the Fearless Five's family. There are some GREAT items (like duck jerky) and it is such a worthwhile cause.

January 29, 2012

2012-01-29T23:23:00.001-07:00

White Dog, Quinn, Nuka, Puff, and YoYoMa woo'd four wonderful friends over the Rainbow Bridge this past week. One was a heroic Warrior in his fight against the c monster. The second equally valiant in his struggles with the seizure monster. The third unexpectedly had a heart attack during a "routine" teeth cleaning. And the fourth was in a car crash that crushed his pelvis and part of his spine.

We ache for the families filled with huge holes in their lives and hearts now. We struggle to answer the question that always breaks loose from our hearts at times like these: "Why?" We reach out paws and arms to encircle in solace and understanding those who are stunned at the losses. We ask the Universe to grant peace to our friends gone ahead...and to those who remain behind. And we offer these two stories as an explanation as to why...and a hope that as Khyra says, "It isn't for always, it is only for now." White Dog love and sympathy to the families and friends of The Bleu, Dakota, Jack, and Neo. We know you will be there to greet us, Dear Friends.

Why

Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their little boy, Shane were all very attached to Belker and they were hoping for a miracle. I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family there were no miracles left for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their ome.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for the four-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt Shane could learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away. The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion.

We sat together for a while after Belker's death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, "I know why."

Startled, we all turned to him.

What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. He said, "Everybody is born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody and being nice, right?" The four-year-old continued, "Well, animals already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."

Source(s): http://www.petsincondos.org/WhyDogs.htm

Together Again

A man and his dog were walking along a road. The man was enjoying the scenery, when it suddenly occurred to him that he was dead. He remembered dying, and that the dog walking beside him had been dead for years. He wondered where the road was leading them.

After a while, they came to a high, white stone wall along one side of the road. It looked like fine marble. At the top of a long hill, it was broken by a tall arch that glowed in the sunlight. When he was standing before it, he saw a magnificent gate in the arch that looked like mother-of-pearl, and the street that led to the gate looked like pure gold.

He and the dog walked toward the gate, and as he got closer, he saw a man at a desk to one side.
When he was close enough, he called out, 'Excuse me, where are we?'

'This is Heaven, sir,' the man answered.

'Wow! Would you happen to have some water?' the man asked.

'Of course, sir. Come right in, and I'll have some ice water brought right up.'

The man gestured, and the gate began to open. 'Can my friend,' gesturing toward his dog, 'come in, too?' the traveler asked.

'I'm sorry, sir, but we don't accept pets.'

The man thought a moment and then turned back toward the road and continued the way he had been going with his dog.

After another long walk, and at the top of another long hill, he came to a dirt road leading through a farm gate that looked as if it had never been closed. There was no fence. As he approached the gate, he saw a man inside, leaning against a tree and reading a book.

'Excuse me!' he called to the man. 'Do you have any water?'

'Yeah, sure, there's a pump over there, come on in.'

'How about my friend here?' the traveler gestured to the dog.

'There should be a bowl by the pump,' said the man.

They went through the gate, and sure enough, there was an old-fashioned hand pump with a bowl beside it. The traveler filled the water bowl and took a long drink himself, then he gave some to the dog.

When they were full, he and the dog walked back toward the man who was standing by the tree. 'What do you call this place?' the traveler asked.

'This is Heaven,' he answered.

'Well, that's confusing,' the traveler said.

'The man down the road said that was Heaven, too.'

'Oh, you mean the place with the gold street and pearly gates? Nope. That's Hell.'

'Doesn't it make you mad for them to use your name like that?'

'No, we're just happy that they screen out the folks who would leave their best friends behind.'

January 28, 2012

2012-01-29T22:11:00.000-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army were honored last week by their new friend, Haopee, who chose us to share the Versa-Tile blogger Award. Such kind words and thoughtful generosity make us feel especially good. Thanks Haopee. For longtime followers, please forgive us if we repeat...

The rules say we must share seven things about the White Dog Army
1. All of the girls in the WDA(White Dog, Nuka, and Puff) weigh about the same 22 lbs. and both boys (Quinn and YoYoMa) weigh 34 lbs.

2. Each member of The White Dog Army has the middle name "Marie." Momma comes from a large family and when HER mom would get upset she sometimes had a hard time keeping every one's full name straight (because that is how you know you are REALLY in trouble, your mom call out your entire name). So Momma's mom would just say, "Susan Marie Sehi-Smith" Instead of Momma's real name of Susan Sharon Sarah Sehi-Smith. Momma has continued the tradition.

3. Each member of the WDA has his/her own "color": White Dog prefers black (and sometimes red. Since she is the Leader she gets two choices...she decreed); The Other White Dog is orange; Another White Dog is blue; Still Another White Dog is pink; and Yet Another White Dog is green.

4. When the WDA goes out for a ride in Pumpkin (the WDA Taxi), Nuka usually hogs the way back seat, Puff takes the single middle seat, YoYoMa and Quinn lie on the cushion on the floor, and White Dog rides in a special car seat set up between the passenger and driver's seat at the front, the coveted "throne."

5. Our oldest member is Puff, Still Another White Dog. She is 14 years old. Nuka, AWD is 11 years old. Quinn, TOWD, we guesstimate to be about 10. YoYoMa (YAWD) and White Dog are both 7.

6. Last year, the entire White Dog Army walked in the very first 2MillionDog Puppy Up New Mexico Walk to End Cancer. The Army, with LOTS of help from our blog friends, raised over $600 for comparative oncology, a new hope for both humans and dogs.

7. The WDA's three favorite foods are: palettas, duck jerky, and liver sausage on pumpernickel sandwiches (the way dad makes them)!

We invite any friends that want to reveal a bit about themselves to share this award with us. It is always wonderful to learn new things about our neighbors in Blogville. Thanks again, Haopee.

January 27, 2012

2012-01-28T12:57:00.000-07:00

White Dog looked over and asked me, "How does it feel to finally have the Gift completely done?" I had to think about it...on one hand, there was relief that nearly ten months of work had come together so well...and there was jubilation that at last the recipient had received the Gift...but on the other hand there was a bit of missing it, I had lived with the bits and pieces so long that I found myself a little possessive.

The Gift was a project I started when we found out the mommeh over at The World of Hansel (with Hansel, Tesla, and Benny) was going to become mommeh of a human. It began with a wonderful dialog between Lisa and her husband and I over what things in this wonderful world they would to share with her and teach her to love as much as they did.

Their answers became the basis for the "story chair," a rocker painted with images of those things...animals...sunset...team spirit...snow...the Ocean...Christmas...and more. It was a project the White Dogs and I (for they all had a hand in supervising...White Dog always beside me as I painted and YoYoMa usually under my easel) only worked on when the energy was right. Bad weather or moods were not allowed to enter this work for the coming Baby Ava; this was to be a sanctuary of good feelings. Steve lent his very able skills and talents to depicting our Balloon Fiesta, a reminder of their family's visit to our Land of Enchantment. It seemed like forever (and nearly was) but last weekend we photographed the rocker (the first time any of us had seen it assembled) and made a video explaining the Story and sent the now 4-month old girl our Gift.

Today we awoke to a message that our box had arrived Thursday and that the family had watched the video that night. It was a joyful moment for us all. And like all special moments in our lives, we wanted to share our happiness with our Blog community.

January 26, 2012

2012-01-26T22:31:00.004-07:00

White Dog...leader of the White Dog Army...wise and compassionate one...beautiful runner...magician?

Through circumstance...some would call it poor planning...others over-treating...all three of the treat jars (in the living room, the office, and the bedroom) are flashing a "running VERY low" warning at the same time. This has thrown the household into panic especially since Steve checked the treat storage bin and returned to announce that we were out of spares. With five pups each expecting a nite-nite treat of five of the training bits, the bedroom stash would disappear tonight. The living room jar might make it past the pre-breakfast warm-up training drill. And the Office jar was hopelessly gone already.

The jars contain Fromm's all-natural baked treats (a low calorie mix of cheese and cranberry liver). The WDA loves these and we use them as rewards, training incentives and snacks. They are only available from ONE store in Albuquerque, clear across town. The woman who owns the place knows of the WDA's "habit" so she makes sure that there are always bags of Fromm's in the back room (in case her shelves are empty). But we generally, can't get there until the weekends, hence the WDA panic.

Steve was in one of the kitchen cabinets which contain dog "stuff" like shampoo, brushes, extra vitamins, the first aid kit, etc. looking for Nuka's skin ointment. As usual, he was being supervised. Suddenly White Dog pushed past him and crawled deeply into the shelf. Steve grabbed her and pulled her out, ready to remind her of her manners and safety issues. Instead he started laughing.

She held the black bag in her mouth and her tail wagged excitedly. She dropped it when asked and stuck her nose back in. White Dog had discovered, or conjured, a secret stash of the Fromm's treats! Mistakenly stored there or magically pulled from thin air, the rest of the White Dog Army did not care as they crowded around to make sure these were, indeed, the real thing and not an illusion.

Tomorrow, we will all take a field trip to Boofy's to stock up, but this Thursday night, we are thankful for the small miracles that happen every day.

January 25, 2012

2012-01-25T15:49:00.001-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army

Wonderful World Wednesday

White Dogsaid, “Two thousand four hundred is a big number isn’t it, momma?”

She was referring to the fact that this postis our 2400^th. It represents more than six and half years, and about500,000 words. It is the roadmap of a journey that hardly followed the originalplan of an only pup household (White Dog) which somehow became the White DogArmy of five. It is the record of growth and maturity…not just of a preciouspup into an elegant wise dog, but of a family’s evolution as well.

In the timespan of 2400 posts we have watched times get tougher, yes, but we have come toappreciate that through it all, this IS a wonderful world…full of positivepeople and miracles and the pervasive desire to make a difference.

Our blog hasalways been a little side oddity. We are not in the thick of most things. Ithas allowed us a certain objectivity and freedom to observe our community overthe course of half a million words. When White Dog and I started this blog onJune 24, 2005 it was customary to not show humans in photos or to reallymention them at all; in general, blogs were solely about the pup. We found it impossible to separate the storyof White Dog from the context of her family and the people in her life. She andI were co-authors, equals, of the posts we made. (She still sits with me forevery post we publish). Over time we noticed a shift within the Blogworld awayfrom anonymity to embrace the fact that life…especially a fur one’s…is atapestry filled with many characters and settings.

It is atthat point, White Dog and I believe, that our Blogworld blossomed into acommunity, family, a group tied together by more than a love of pets and theneed to write about it. We became REAL to each other and when that happened itbegan to matter in the most personal way when one of us was in need, or inpain. We cared and wanted to help and to share (both sadness and triumphs). It isthat connection that today is our anchor in times when our faith is shaken(like by yesterday’s story of Ava) and we doubt for a moment just how wonderfulthe world truly is.

When we need refilling or reassurance orencouragement or just a smile we come here…home…and throw ourselves into your pawsand arms. And you never fail us. How wonderful a world is that?

Thank you.Ours IS a wonderful world because of you.

January 24, 2012

2012-01-24T21:55:00.001-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army ask for your help. We are firm believersin the notion that no one can do everything, but everyone can do something…and that is why we encourageyou to support the Crossed Paws All in the Name of Love Auction. The WDAknows times are tough and everyone is watching their pennies but even a littlebit will go a long way to help a blog family in need…and to save a life.

Please read, share, anddo something to help with the auction! The auction will firstly raisesome money to add to the donations that have already been pouring in for The Houston Pittie Pack (who lost everything) and secondly,in honor the memory of sweet Shelby, (who sadly lost her life in the tragicfire) the money aid another bait dog who so desperately needs help…just asShelby needed help all those months ago.

This is Ava, only about 18 months old, who was rescued by thewonderful people at Noah'sArks Rescue in Chester, SC. The WDA truly wants to strap on battle armorand go after the humans she trusted who so let her down; but we know a betteruse of that energy will be to work toward healing this poor girl and helpinggive her a second chance.

Poor Ava's face has been shredded to the point that a large partof it is completely missing. Her sinus cavities have punctures and her throatis torn. Her entire little body show the ravages of the attacks from thefighting dogs who were being trained to kill another dog. She is emaciated fromstarvation. Yet through it all, Ava only wants to be loved. She never stopswagging her tail and wanting to show that love, even in the face of theexcruciating pain that she is in. This beautiful spirit reminds us so much of beautifulShelby. We cannot think of a better way tribute than to help Ava. After all, ifit wasn't for sweet Shelby, Crossed Paws would not even exist!

The auction will open on 30th January and will close one weeklater on 6th February.

So - we need your help! Crossed Paws is only a success because ofBlogville! Do you have something you can donate?Can you spread the wordabout the auction? Do you have any birthdays coming up that you need to buy for- why shop when you can bid?!Everyone can help- and your help makes such a difference!

If you have any itemsto donate please e-mail a short description plus a photo to'crossed-paws@gmx.com' We also ask for your help in promotingthis auction as much as you can!

Of course, the WDA has already donated FOURluscious pounds (two full purple bags) of the most primo duck jerky on theplanet. We know MANY of you already are drooling at the thought and those whohave not yet held this mighty delight on the tongue have such a thrill instore. Spread the word…spread the Love!

January 23. 2012

2012-01-23T22:36:00.001-07:00

WhiteDog and The White Dog Army wish all of our friends a Happy Year of the Dragon,Gong Xi Fa Cai! The Chinese Year of theDragon begins today. The dragon Chinese zodiac year is special. The Year of the Dragon is associated with the earthlybranch symbol 辰 and is consideredthe luckiest year in the Chinese Zodiac.

The new year, which traditionallylasts for 15 days, is the longest and most important of the Chinese holidays. Muchlike New Year in Western cultures, the festival begins on the first day of thefirst month within the Chinese calendar. It ends on the date of the full moon.

InChinese astrology the dragon is the only animal of the Chinese zodiac that isnot real. The dragon was seen as apowerful almighty king because it was made up of different parts of animalssuch as a tiger, fish, snake and an eagle.

The dragon is quite special and very muchrevered; it was in ancient times a symbol only used to represent the Emperor. TheChinese dragon was not seen as a threatening evil being as we do in the west -rather a symbol of power, superiority and rule.

Morethan 4,000 years ago, there were two large tribes and many smaller tribes inChina. The tribes had animals as emblems. The two large tribes unified andchose the dragon as their symbol. In fact, the Han Chinese still callthemselves the descendants of the Dragon.

Stilltoday, the Dragon is a revered symbol. You can see many sculptures and carvingsof the dragon. The Chinese still associatethe dragon with power and wisdom.

Beings born in these years: 1904 * 1916 * 1928 * 1940 * 1952 * 1964 * 1976 * 1988 * 2000 are considered to be Dragons. Those born in Dragon years tendto be brave, innovative and highly driven, regularly making it to the top oftheir professions. Famous people born in Dragon years include former U.S.president Bill Clinton, actress Reese Witherspoon and artist Salvador Dali.

A dragon can breathe out fire so the person born in the Chinese Year of theDragon can be a hothead. A dragon has a long tongue which is often seen. Thedragon person often says things that can be quite sarcastic and biting.

However, the dragon has a soft underbelly and so in Chinese folklore the dragonperson has a "soft spot" to them. They may get angry at someone whoannoys them but they also show great compassion to people in need.

WhiteDog and the WDA think this characterization perfectly describes the HonoraryWhite Dog, Dragon, who wasn’t born in a Dragon year but carries the mythicalbeast’s name.

WelcomeDragon!Your arrival is most anticipated. People and businesses around the world havehad difficult times over the last few years, so the good luck you bring istimely and needed.

The Dragon is the major symbol of good fortune inChinese Astrology. According to tradition the Dragon brings in the FourBlessings of the East: wealth, virtue, harmony and longevity. The Dragon is areminder everyone has dreams, and that the time to pursue them is now. Now is thetime to take a chance, to reach for the proverbial brass ring, to not onlydream but act on that impossible dream. The Dragon gives you the best chance tomake it come true, especially in the Spring.

TheWDAwishesyou a year filled with the Four Blessings of the East, the strength and wisdomof the Emperor’s beast, and all of the good fortune the Universe holds.

January 22, 2012

2012-01-22T21:54:00.002-07:00

White Dog tried to blame the winds. "It's an ill wind blowing through the canyons today, momma. It is infecting our spirit!" I conceded that the weather was cold and windy but the skies were blue and we had spent the mid-day at their favorite duck park. The winds hardly seemed the culprit.

Yet something was effecting all of the pups. Every single one was short-tempered and out of sorts as they growled and threatened each other without provocation. Even Dragon and Sen-ge were stricken. Candace walked down the drive with the Honorary White Dogs and before they even reached the car where Steve waited with YoYoMa to let them into Pumpkin, the two guests started barking and lunging at YAWD. Candace swooped up Dragon and Gregg grabbed Sen-ge in embarrassment.

At the Park, White Dog refused to run with the others. She briefly investigated the grassy area and returned to sit on the crosswalk next to the car, stubbornly refusing to participate. YoYoMa kept interrupting his Walk with Puff (usually they are a great pair) by constantly veering over to her and attempting to mount her (she glared and sat down). Nuka, Quinn's protector and comfort, today felt the need to over-herd him and to yip her commands right in his face. Her bossiness made him nervous and anxious for the walk to end. Dragon and Sen-ge charged and challenged every dog they passed. Everyone at the Park, including the White Dog Army, was glad when our trio readied their bikes for riding and strapped the little bullies into their bike baskets.

Normally as the WDA waits for Steve, Gregg, and Candace to return they get comfortable and nap. Not so today. They danced around each other and could not get settled. Quinn did not want to sleep next to YoYoMa; White Dog did not want to share the front seat with Puff; Nuka wanted no one on the way back seat with her. They all needed a drink of water from the travel bowl at the same time, pushing and shoving to make their claim until I intervened.

After the bike ride, the pups usually get a second chance to exercise; today was no different. Except, that although every pup pushed to get out first no one really wanted to walk. A short failed attempt to coax the reluctant WDA into cooperation led to a revised plan: we would take our pups, Dragon and Sen-ge home and then the humans would go out for lunch. Normally the WDA and guests come along but today every pup was just too crabby and antisocial. As a consolation prize White Dog, The Other White Dog, Another White Dog, Still Another White Dog and Yet Another White Dog were each given a piece of duck jerky and were left to seriously think about their lack of kindness. I only felt a tiny bit guilty as we backed down the driveway and the sad black eyes peering from fluffy whiteness begged me to reconsider.

January 21, 2012

2012-01-21T22:32:00.001-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army want toremind all of our friends that today is National Squirrel Appreciation Day. Althoughwe have no little furry pigeons to celebrate with in our area, we want to providea special tribute from afar.

YoYoMa, the Meister Jokester, offers somelevity to share with your neighborhood ~~pests~~ friends:

Q. Why did the squirrel sleep on his stomach?
A. To keep his nuts warm!

Q: How doyou catch a mechanically inclined squirrel?
A: Climb a tree and act like a 9/16 12N nut.

Q: How do you catch a Polynesian squirrel?
A: Climb a tree and act like a coconut. ...

A policeofficer sees a man driving around with a pickup truck full of Squirrels. Hepulls the guy over and says...
"You can't drive around with squirrels in this town! Take them to the zooimmediately."
The guy says "OK"... and drives away.
The next day, the officer sees the guy still driving around with the truck fullof squirrels, and they're all wearing sun glasses. He pulls the guy over anddemands...
"I thought I told you to take these squirrels to the zoo yesterday?"
The guy replies...
"I did . . . today I'm taking them to the beach!"

Quinn dida bit of scholarly research about the Squirrels that live in New Mexico,although his research agreed with our observations that we have NO squirrels thatlive in our neighborhood. All of the WhiteDog Army loves to watch and stalk the Prairie Dog communities out on the mesawhere we hike sometimes.

Chipmunks:Gray-footed Chipmunk, Gray-collared Chipmunk, Cliff Chipmunk, Least Chipmunk,Colorado Chipmunk, Hopi Chipmunk

GroundSquirrels: Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrel, Mexican Ground Squirrel, SpottedGround Squirrel, Thirteen-Lined Ground Squirrel, Rock Squirrel

TreeSquirrels: Albert's Squirrel, ArizonaGray Squirrel, Mexican Fox Squirrel, Red Squirrel

AntelopeSquirrels: White-Tailed Antelope Squirrel, Harris's Antelope Squirrel, TexasAntelope Squirrel

PrairieDogs, Marmots

Puff, ourfarm girl from Kansas, knows all about how tasty the furry ones are (if you arefast enough to catch one). Here is her favorite recipe for the delicacy:

Squirrel Delight
Thanks to Realto Nosky for sending in this recipe.

~ 1 - 2 squirrels, quartered
~ 1/4 cup olive oil
~ salt
~ pepper
~ fresh chopped rosemary

Par boil the squirrels for 10 minutes.
Place in a large skillet with the olive oil.
Season to taste with the salt and pepper.
Sprinkle on the rosemary.
Add water to pan to just the top of the meat.
Cover and simmer for 3 hours.
Serve with mashed potatoes.
Enjoy.

Nuka, shared a great literary contribution made in honor of la ardilla (“Squirrel” in Spanish) :

The Squirrel

by Anonymous

Whisky, frisky,
Hippity hop;
Up he goes
To the tree top!

Whirly, twirly,
Round and round,
Down he scampers
To the ground.

Furly, curly
What a tail!
Tall as a feather
Broad as a sail!

Where's his supper?
In the shell,
Snappity, crackity,
Out it fell.

And if you are feeling very festive, White Dog suggests you make a few of these and hang them where your tree rodent friends can enjoy them:

Take a pinecone and tie a string around the center with about 4' left for hanging. Use a butterknife or spoon to fill all the crevasses with peanut butter. Roll in birdseed, then hang it outside from a tree or other support.
You might want to use a thin wire to hang it, as one squirrel we know keeps chewing through the string and dragging the treat away!

So there you have it, all of the makings for a terrific Squirrel Appreciation Day...now, get out there and let little the bushy tails know just HOW much you care!

January 20, 2012

2012-01-20T22:43:00.000-07:00

White Dog left Steve in the Army's capable paws and went to the spa for a much needed grooming. I let her borrow my cell "just in case." Even though this was our "Friday-Is-Saturday" all the pups knew Steve was still under the weather and that it would probably not be a very active day. There were no complaints and the White Dog nurses continued the excellent care and supervision they have been providing. As Puff said, "There is no point thinking you are well like you did a couple weeks ago only to have it come back around later. Today you must rest, dad!"

White Dog returned at lunch time and resumed command. The WDA received her highest praise when she complimented how thorough a job they had done and asked for extra jerky rations all around as a reward. After lunch it was nap and quiet time.

Nuka, our senior deaf girl, has never been interested in toys of any kind: no stuffies, no balls, no tug toys (little wonder with only 8 teeth). She has watched White Dog and Puff and YoYoMa play without any interest or even curiosity about the toybox overflowing with toy temptations.

This Christmas the White Ones each received a handmade stuffie toy from our heart family in California; the boys got blue bones and the girls red hearts. Possession has switched and changed and been stolen and hidden so many times that it is no longer clear whose toy is whose. Nuka's and Quinn's stuffies were claimed right after the holidays by the trio of players and have been rotated into play along with the rest.

Today during quiet time, Nuka settled comfortably at the hearth sort of half awake/daydreaming; the other White Ones and Steve napped. One of the heart stuffies lay in the middle of the floor (she had stepped over it to get to her blanket).

Suddenly Another White Dog got up and walked over to the toy. She sniffed it.Walked around it. Sniffed other parts. She gave it a lick. Then she pushed it with her foot. I got very excited.

Nuka was trying to play with the heart!

I wanted to wake everyone to share the thrill of watching her push it across the floor closer to me and to see her smile as she looked up. But this was our moment. For a change I actually had the camera sitting next to me and snapped a photo before she turned her back to me and settled down to lie next to the heart...not quite touching it, but claiming ownership.

One of the most rewarding times of owning a rescue dog is when some invisible guard dissolves and a spark of puppyhood denied shines through. This was one of those events. Who knows if she will ever be interested in the toy again but for an instant, Nuka played! And it made me cry with joy.

January 19, 2012

2012-01-19T22:53:00.001-07:00

White Dog snuggled tightly against me and whispered, "I can't stand it anymore, dad is cooking me alive! I am going to sleep under the chair!" I raised a hand to Steve's forehead; WD was right, he was burning up. I got out of bed to get the thermometer and aspirin then gently woke Steve. He had a fever and complained of being cold and achy. "You have the sickies, my love," I told him and WD yipped in agreement. I reached over and turned off the alarm clock. "No work today. Sleep, lots of water, aspirin, and more sleep. Believe me they will THANK you for not bringing these germs into the school."

Late morning, Steve got up to leave messages at school and crawled back into bed. "I feel awful!" White Dog had already quietly gone around and alerted the rest of the Army that they were assigned nursing and Steve care duties for the day and that she would tolerate no action that made the patient uncomfortable. Every time Steve stirred or got off of the couch he had an escort to attend to him. There was a White One always at his side, even as he slept.

YoYoMa was in charge of entertaining the patient. He brought him a favorite stuffie and told Steve cat and squirrel jokes.

Steve insisted on preparing the pup's dinner meal claiming that he so enjoyed it that it would make him feel better. Quinn was at his heel the entire time.

The rest of the Army lined up in an anticipatory show of appreciation that WAS heartwarming.

After, the WDA crowd around Steve's sickie nest on the couch to warm him and distract him from the cold symptoms. Steve has promised to take the deserving WDA on their nightly walk, despite my protests; the White Ones have promised to go easy on him. Maybe a bit a fresh air, IF Steve bundles up properly won't hurt. But then the nurses must directly tuck him firmly into bed and administer "go to sleep" cold meds.

January 18, 2012

2012-01-18T20:00:00.000-07:00

WhiteDog and the White Dog Army
Wonderful World Wednesday

WhiteDog often wonders if her brother Quinn once had a loving human who cared forhim but who died or was forced to leave him wandering the streets to end up ata city kill shelter. Quinn’s story is, of course, buried in his head and henever speaks of what led to his joining the WDA. But Quinn is a beautiful boy. Whilehe was terrified, underweight and matted, it didn’t seem as though he had endured alifetime of being unloved or had chosen homelessness.

Homelessnessleads to hopelessness…both in dogs and in humans. And when creatures give up,the world loses potential and possibilities. A hand up not only helps those inneed but revives lost strength and energy that may someday make a HUGEdifference in the world.

WhiteDog found this story wonderful because at her darkest hour, one teen’s worldwas changed, her talent recognized, and her loved ones saved...and the worldrescued an enormous potential.

A Homeless TeenNamed National Science Prize Finalist is Given Housing and Help

By Good NewsNetwork Monday, January 16, 2012
Originally published:January 13, 2012 9:09 AM Updated: January 13, 2012 10:33 PM
By JOIE TYRRELL AND JO NAPOLITANO. joie.tyrrell@newsday.com,,jo.napolitano@newsday.com

A dedicated marinebiology student at a Long Island High School learned she was named one of 61finalists for the $100,000 Intel Science prize just days after her family wasforced to move into a homeless shelter. Samantha Garvey's intensive 6-years ofresearch on mussel ecosystems led to her invitation to the prestigious nationalscience competition.

Intelsemifinalist Samantha Garvey spoke Friday of a "new beginning" forher and her family.

Thesame holds true for their spunky pit bull, Pulga, whom they were able to springfrom a shelter thanks to an anonymous donor.

Thefamily, evicted from their rented home on New Year's Day, will move from ahomeless shelter to a three-bedroom, county-owned house in Bay Shore thismonth.

Now, thanks to newsreports on TV and print, the 17-year-old student and her family have beenflooded with offers of help, including a 3 bedroom home available soon fromSuffolk County Social Services and money from a kind stranger to retrieve thebeloved family pets from an animal shelter.

She said she neverthought her biggest worries would be eliminated in a day. The family pets,including a dog, cat and turtles were also invited to move into the Long Islandrental home, once repairs are completed in ten days.

The White Dogs have pawscrossed that, whether Samantha wins or not, that she will go on to make adifference in the world…and to pay forward the wonderful opportunities she received..

January 17, 2012

2012-01-17T19:49:00.003-07:00

White Dog yawned. "It is still dark, for dog's sake! What is wrong with you momma?" Normally 6am is the realm of Steve time, not mine, so she was a bit concerned as I (with eyelids still glued shut) slid out of bed and began the day-start rituals. I heard YoYoMa mutter, "this is just WRONG!" as he dutifully hauled himself to four-legs and followed to lie across the bathroom door.

I had a doctor's appointment (just a followup check) which I always foolishly ask for the earliest possible and was expected to be presentable and ready to interact publicly by 7:20am (WHAT was I thinking). But then I am done and my "real" day is not disrupted. None of the White Dog Army complained about not being able to go along.

Home by 8:15, we breakfasted with the pups (our CA boys thought the hour was still too early but could not pass up eating) and informed them that since Tuesday is the tough late night, we planned to spend the entire morning having WDA time. First stop...to get more kibble since the giant kibble bin was down to stems and seeds.

The White Ones strapped on their rainbow of harnesses and jostled each other to be first at the door. Quin has discovered the notion of luxury riding and now, to Nuka's forced delight, shares the way back seat in Pumpkin sprawled like a Persian Prince with AWD.

Everyone had to sniff the kibble bag as Steve loaded the 500 lb bag (or it least it seemed that way) behind the seat thinking there it would be safe. Puff promptly proved him wrong by jumping over the seat back and lying on the bag.

Next it was an extended trip to the Park with not one but two walks, separated by dog treats and a water break. WD led YAWD and SAWD in a brisk canter as she buzz bombed them running by at full-speed. Quinn and Nuka enjoyed sightseeing at a more relaxed pace.

A stop for carryout Chinese (chicken chow mein is a WDA favorite) and then home for lunch. Steve had to wake the Army to say "see you later" when he left mid-afternoon...if it wasn't for the duck jerky in his hand, I suspect their adieu would have been more sleep muffled.

We are on the back half of our wait for Steve's return and all are resting and patient. I think we may have found a cure for the Long Night Blues!

January 16, 2012

2012-01-16T22:27:00.001-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army,on this special day, share a dream: that humankind look to the furred Ones for the guidance to live MartinLuther King’s incredible dream of a world filled with harmony and Oneness. WDAparaphrases the visionary’s most famous words to illustrate their dream.

(photo by Kristin Bole)

I say to you today, my friends,so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have adream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

(photo by Rebecca Passaglia)

I have a dream that one day thisnation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We holdthese truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."

(photo by Tim Voet)

I have a dream that one all willbe able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day thatevery corner of the world will be transformed into an oasis of freedom andjustice.

I have a dream that littlechildren will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by thecolor of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day therewill be an end to vicious racism, words of interposition and nullification; oneday all will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls assisters and brothers.

I have a dream today...

This is our hope... With thisfaith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope.With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of ournation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will beable to work together, to pray together, to struggle together...to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free oneday.

January 15, 2012

2012-01-15T22:08:00.002-07:00

White Dog got to go first with Steve as he ran out for warm croissants from the bakery. All of the others jealously pressed their noses against the front door as they skipped out and zoomed off. Puff rode along to pick up some photo supplies Steve needed (she loves going alone because she gets to sit in White Dog's captain's chair). Quinn wanted...and received...just a short a walk around the neighborhood and then he wanted to go home.

YoYoMa must have gotten a snooter full of Spring air from somewhere for he was full of macho studliness and bravado. He was driving poor Puff to distraction wanting to play the "Hey Baby Let's Mambo" game and was getting a little too pushy as he walked past gentle Quinn. So he got to come with to the photo shoot (I am doing an ad for Dragon's dad)...the others sighed with relief at the thought of Yo not being in their faces for a while.

There was plenty of time for the Park when we returned so everyone was harnessed up to go. Yet Another White Dog decided that he needed a nap after an afternoon of supervising photography so he opted to stay home. The rest of the WDA gratefully trotted through the grass; White Dog as usual, plowed across the field full-speed until she was spent and then calmly walked alongside the others.

In the middle of last night, we heard a groan and then a snap come from the office. No pup barked or stirred so we decided investigation could wait until this morning. In our nearly 100 year old home, there is an extreme shortage of closet space so Steve has a portable ancillary unit in the office. During the night, the hanger rod had given way (yes, Steve loves clothes). So tonight the project involved attempting to fix it (no go since the rod is aluminum and cannot be straightened) and then assembling the extra unit we had thought at one time to put up in the basement and just never got around to. Things seem to be going well but one-by-one Steve's supervisory help is succumbing to the need for a post dinner nap.

Good help is just so hard to find...especially on a Sunday!

January 14, 2011

2012-01-15T21:31:00.001-07:00

A sort of...kind of...repost.
White Dog rushed to check our blog like she does first thing every morning after breakfast and looked at me with her dark eyes flashing. "Momma! Blogger is at it again! Our post from Saturday has been eaten! It is NOT here!" With that she stomped off to sulk and yip under her breath. "Watch your language, Young Lady!" I called after her.

White Dog and the White Dog Army (finally) wanted to gratefully acknowledge the receipt of The Liebster Blog Award from three of our favorite bloggers:
Random Felines (a wonderful kitty family and their human who foster and nurse and care about cats and kittens forgotten and abandoned...and an occasional transport pup),

Meowmeowmans the stories and insights from PAWS a private no-kill shelter, and

the Slimmer Puggums (five of the most generous pugs, their mamas, and their new kitty sister. If you need help in this community odds are the Puggums are already on it...spreading the word...getting the ball rolling...lending a hand).

The kind recognition of these superior bloggers honors us, warms our hearts, and makes us woo in glee.

"Liebster means “dearest” in German, and the award is intended to help up-and-coming blogs get the attention they deserve. As with any award, there is a bit of ceremony involved. In order to accept the award, we must do the following:
1.Copy and paste the award on our blog.
2.Link back to the blogger who gave us the award.
3.Pick our five favorite blogs with less than 200 followers, and leave a comment on their blog to let them know they have received the award.
4.Hope that the five blogs chosen will keep spreading the love and pass it on to five more blogs"

The White Dog Army is going to bend rule #3 just a bit. Instead of listing OUR favorites, we ask you to adventure into the blog community and read a blog that is new to you...then come back and leave us a comment so we, too, can expand our circle of friends...and share the love and spirit of our blog world. In a way, we all can share this award together.

Thank you once again, dear friends, for thinking of us. We humbly promise to do right by your gift.

January 13, 2012

2012-01-14T13:10:00.002-07:00

White Dog slumped dejectedly against me and complained, "Friday the 13th has sure been unlucky for the White Dog Army." The others woofed in assent. "Here it is, our Saturday and we're just sitting here doing nothing!"

It was our Friday-Is-Saturday day but Steve was tied up doing all sorts of business errands and tasks that we couldn't even ride along to accomplish. Between demands, he would briefly stop home and lavish attention on the White Ones but too soon had to gather up this or that and leave again. He hoped to been done so that there could at least be a late afternoon trip to the Park but it seemed every errand took twice as long as he had anticipated and the day vanished into disappointment.

The White Dog sadness was compounded by our commitment to dine out with Dragon's parents, so the WDA would be abandoned during the evening as well.

The owner of our favorite Moroccan restaurant which had closed last Spring has opened a new venue just blocks from our house. We enjoyed a fantastic meal and mint tea but did not see Ridha, the owner, who was kept busy with chef duties in the back. We were just readying ourselves to waddle our overstuffed selves out the door when he rushed to our table with hugs and greetings.

"Why did you not tell me you were here?" he demanded. "Let me bring you some Turkish coffee and baklava and we can catch up!" We were thrilled to see our old friend but inwardly groaned at the thought of more food. Plus we were feeling guilty about the White Ones at home. Be he was not to be denied...and so gracious.

He came out carrying the small cups of java mud and a plate where he had thankfully heeded our "stuffed" protests by cutting the nut and honey pastries in half. His first statement was "I have the girls wrapping up lamb shank bones for your beautiful White Dogs. Are they well?" We told him they were actually grumpy at home because they are not allowed at the Casbah and that his remembering them with such a fabulous take home box would be the highlight of their day.

When he learned of YoYoMa and his addition to the family he excused himself and hurried to the kitchen to make sure enough shanks were packaged. He came back a bit crestfallen apologizing that he only had three shanks. Steve indicated that we would either save them in the freezer until our next visit or cut them in half. "But they are sad tonight," Ridha said, "They need a pick me up!" Again he scurried off, this time to return with the three bones AND two huge containers of chicken couscous. "This is my favorite and my mother used to make it when I needed to be cheered up," he said. "Do you think they will enjoy this?" Steve said he thought they might happily gobble it down and Ridha's eyes lit up with delight. Of course, the was to be no discussion about us paying for the generous treat. "I wish one day to meet them in person," he said.

We chatted a bit more about his sabbatical travels to Paris (his hometown) and Tunisia, as the staff went about shutting down the dining room for the night. And then hugged our friend wishing him success and prosperity. We promised a quick return and he smiled. "Next time call me ahead and I will be sure to save enough bones."

Back home Steve barely had two feet inside the door before the White ones swarmed him with upturned noses and wagging tails. Gregg, Candace, and I waited on the porch until he waded to the kitchen encased by the WDA. They did not allow Steve to even remove his coat as they sat line perfect blocking the door awaiting their treat.

"OK," White Dog conceded, "Maybe Friday the 13th isn't SO bad after all."

January 12, 2012

2012-01-12T23:29:00.002-07:00

White Dog watched Steve fit YoYoMa's new harness.He was the only one without and we thought a harness might be a good idea for better guiding our blind boy along (although he certainly does just fine thank you running along in a traditional collar). He was very patient but looked a bit puzzled.

Steve decided to take him for a test run and the entire White Dog Army insisted on going along for encouragement and supervision. Steve harnessed everyone up: Siku in black, Quinn is his orange, Nuka in blue, Puff in pink, and YoYoMa proud in his lime green.

White Dog scanned the pack and pronounced, "Hey, we look like the Power Rangers! Power Up White Dogs!"

January 11, 2012

2012-01-11T18:52:00.000-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army
Wonderful World Wednesday
White Dog, The Mighty Quinn, Nuka Angel, Puff the Magical, and YoYoMa (from the moment he joined our family) spent much of last year fighting to end the c monster. The WDA fund-raised and awareness campaigned and educated others about comparative oncology (a new hope that fights cancer in both canines and humans). Our Autumn centered around the 2MillionDog Puppy Up! Walk to End Cancer, the first ever in Albuquerque.

We found our Army reinforced heavily here in our Blog community as so many of you donated items for fundraising, made contributions, took the time to add your loved ones to our Wall of Cancer Warriors. We were overwhelmed. Corporate sponsors and vendors added their support. And when over a hundred people and even more dogs showed up to Walk for the monster's end...I cried in amazement. We thanked the Universe a million times for all of you who proved that the world truly IS wonderful.

Well today, our efforts, all of ours, yours too, made the world even more filled with hope. 2MillionDogs.org this year raised over $147, 000 through its Walks around the country. Over 2000 people and 1700 dogs participated to bring down the beast.

But the best news is for the first time in the organizations short life, it is able to fund a unique research project to advance our fight against cancer. Today, $50,000 was presented to Princeton University to fund the Molecular Study of Canine Mammary Tumor Development and Progression: from Genome to Clinical Outcome.

Mammary tumors are the most common tumors in intact female dogs, and in humans, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women (about 1 in 8 are stricken during their lifetimes). Mammary tumors in dogs and breast cancer in women have many similarities, both in terms of risk and in biology. Recent research has provided evidence that mammary tumors progress over time from benign lesions to malignant tumors. Our study builds on these findings with a genome-wide study of the molecular changes associated with the progression.

In order to do this research, Dr. Karin Sorenmo (UofPA) has established a Shelter Canine Mammary Tumor Program; this research is a combination of her clinical expertise with Dr. Troyanskaya's (Princeton) expertise in genomics and bioinformatics.

This program is a true bridge between clinical and translational research, integrating clinical care with cutting-edge biomedical science. Additionally, homeless dogs are provided with lifelong high quality treatment that they need to survive. We believe this is the first study of its kind for dogs or humans.

We would not have been able to do this without your help! The WDA clearly sees a Wonderful World...soon...when cancer.touches~~.everyone~~ NO ONE!

January 10, 2012

2012-01-10T22:05:00.000-07:00

White Dog and the rest of the White Dog Army knew this was Steve's Late Night so they wanted to spend as much time with him as possible before he left for work. Problem is, Steve is coming down with a headcold and just wanted to rest until he had to "suit up."

"No worries," said the WDA, "we'll all rest together." So they pulled the afghan over to the couch and got Steve's pillow from the bedroom and made him a little nest where he could nap or read or just reach out for some white furry love.

P.S. note Quinn's stunning new bright orange harness.

January 9, 2012

2012-01-09T22:38:00.000-07:00

White Dog said, "No way THAT is going to be EZY!" She was referring to putting the new EZY On harness we had gotten for Quinn on the recipient. The harness has gotten excellent reviews and we liked the soft padded chest plate which we hope will be comfortable for our boy since we intend to leave the apparatus on pretty much full time.

The Mighty Quinn likes being manhandled and enclosed (even by the most loving arms) even less than he likes being photographed. It is times like these that my eyes tear as I wonder what horrors our gentle soul has endured. In anticipation of the arrival of the harness, both Steve and I have been slowly making progress in stroking him while we encircle his back or gently run our hands down both sides of his face and ruff.

When the harness arrived today, I unpackaged it and put it on the floor hoping that familiarity would help when it came to putting it on. TOWD walked passed it a few times and sniffed, but then Puff grabbed the end and hauled the harness off to her crate. I rescued it and put it back on the table.

The whole harness issue has arisen because of Quinn's post single seizure panic attacks. At times he just gets so confused and nervous that he reacts mindlessly. Last week he slipped his traditional collar at the Park while walking with Michael. Michael recaptured him but could not reattached his collar, so the two stood hidden from us until we went looking to find out why they were gone so long. And last Wednesday in a walk with White Dog and Puff before Steve's late teaching night, he did the same thing and took off running...but this time toward the busy Route 66. Steve dropped WD's leash and told her to "STAY!" but Puff has no such training and he just thrust the leash at a stranger coming out of a restaurant around the corner. Quinn was so panicked that he bit Steve.

It was then that we decided he needed a harness so there was always some way to grab him or releash him quickly without fear of getting bitten. The harness also eliminates the possibility of his slipping his leash and running blindly into unsafe conditions.

White Dog WAS right, Quinn was not happy about the process of fitting the harness. I held him with a leash attached to his collar and stroked his face as Steve slowly and gently moved around him to adjust and fasten the straps.We tried our best to keep the process as positive as possible but the minute we were done, he headed out of the dog door and hid under the deck.

All of the others went out to comfort him and one-by-one returned...except for Nuka, Another White Dog. When Steve looked out she had drawn Quinn out from hiding and was walking close by his side around the perimeter of the yard. At one point she turned and gently nosed his new harness and then rested her head on it.

Then they came in. Nuka rejoined the pack but Quinn went to his sleeping space to be alone. When I came in to blog, I thanked him for trusting us and tried to explain that we had his best interests at heart. Even with the duck jerky reward, I suspect it will be days before he doesn't act like he has been shackled.

January 8, 2012

2012-01-08T22:30:00.001-07:00

White Dog crashed full speed back into the house and her momentum carried her into the kitchen where Steve greeted her with "I saw you doing zoomies out in the yard!" As he spoke those words, YoYoMa came bounding through the dog door and screeched to a halt against my legs. He was panting and after a moment, took off to find White Dog.

This was one of those firsts that you never have the camera ready for. White Dog and Yet Another White Dog had been out in the yard not doing zoomies, but PLAYING chase TOGETHER!

Now from YoYoMa's perspective this is no big deal. He has been looking for a playmate since he arrived this summer. But none of the others are players. They walk together well, yes...and even are beginning to lie side-by-side...but nobody interactively played. In fact, Quinn takes YoYoMa's invitation to play as aggression and goes running for dad (or hides).

If some pup is playing fetch with Steve, for example, and another tries to join in, it is game over. White Dog, as the Queen of the White Dog Army, has always held herself above the riff-raff (she even eats separately from them).

Steve has discovered that White Dog and YAWD are actually well-matched on walks; both like a fast pace and a long course. Yo has no trouble keeping up and is happy to allow WD to lead. Of late, when at the Park where White Dog usually is allowed to be leash-free, she runs her joyous laps but returns to guide and taunt YoYoMa (and Steve) into following her quick lead at a run.

This morning was a delight in the grey chill as both dogs enjoyed each other's relative youth and energy, coming in with cold furs and happy panting faces. There was no cuddling or special moment after, they simply had shared some time in the yard and nothing more.

To us, however, it was a huge sign that the WDA was starting to form bonds. None of the Army understood why I proclaimed, "Breakfast duck jerky for everyone!" but they did not hesitate to line up either.

January 7, 2012

2012-01-07T23:18:00.001-07:00

White Dog was asleep on the momma chair. She opened one eye when Steve walked in after work, turned over and went back to her nap. He stepped over Puff sleeping in the hall and hung up his jacket... passed Nuka curled in a tight ball and snoring. Quinn stirred slightly as Steve sat in the desk chair and removed his shoes. YoYoMa, next to me at the computer, raised his head and sniffed, put his head back on his paws, then started as he realized, "DAD'S HOME!"

His alarm finally brought my Army of protectors rushing into the office in response and then the usual greeting ritual began in earnest.When I pointed out that an intruder had walked into our home, past four of the five White Ones before the breach was noticed, I got sniffs and posturing.

"We were just testing you, Momma!" White Dog boldly bluffed. "I KNEW it was dad but we wanted to see how you would react." "Yeah, right," I replied as Steve bent over to kiss me. To him, "I guess yesterday's hero is today's old news, my love!"

January 6, 2012

2012-01-06T21:50:00.003-07:00

White Dog noted this morning that Fridays have become the White Dog Army's favorite day. It is Steve's " Saturday" so we get to spend the entire day together doing normal weekend stuff like errands and projects and Park trips and car rides....AND the best part is since it is still only "Friday" for everyone else, all of the fun places are pretty much deserted...except for us.

After a bacon and bagels power meeting to plan the day, the WDA went out to the Studio to supervise Steve as he applied the final coats of protective finish on the baby gift I have been working on for almost 10 months. My part is done and I have received the White Dog paw of approval. Later this weekend we will make a video message to baby Ava describing our gift.

Then it was off to a family shelter in town to deliver our annual Christmas donation of blankets. this is a tradition started when we first moved to Albuquerque 15 years ago and several friends still, instead of gifting us, send us blankets or checks to use for the shelter donation. This year we also included crayons and markers and craft goods for the shelter's playroom. The children always love our White Ones who seem to know their duty and are always on their best behavior when we are there. This is always a "feel good" post holiday moment for us.

Good behavior deserves reward, Quinn reminded us from the way back seat in Pumpkin, and since we had not lunched, we agreed. The rule was NO PLASTIC SPOONS but since we were at Albuquerque's famous Dog House Drive In, that wasn't a problem...every pup wanted hot dogs! (Don't you just love this part of the sign Amber and Nola)?

When Steve suggested the WDA might all share a foot-long dog, White Dog quickly calculated that each of the five would receive 2.4" of weiner goodness. Steve asked for and received a plastic knife which was immediately taken out of the car after Steve, under the microscope of 10 Eskie eyes, divided up the treat. Thank dog Steve is an architect for had it been me, some pup would have demanded that I use a measuring tool to ensure accuracy.

What follows hot dogs better than a trip to the Park, right? On the errand route we discovered a Park that the WDA had not yet visited. It had a long stretch of grass rimmed by trees and White Dog was a streak of white as she flowed full speed down the greenway. Nuka, Puff, and Quinn strolled at a more leisurely pace at Steve's side. Then Steve and YoYoMa went for a run. It is always amazing to watch our blind boy gallop with abandon and total trust. He came back pantingly happy.

The rest of the errands were routine and the WDA napped as we drove. Back home, it was nearly dinner time and while things cooked cuddles and hugs and brushings and tug filled the living room.

Did I mention that Fridays have become our favorite day?

January 5, 2012

2012-01-05T22:08:00.001-07:00

White Dog seconded my after dinner suggestion that Steve run over to the gelato shoppe around the corner and bring back something tasty to celebrate a "normal" night of dinner together at a regular time and space in the evening to enjoy all being together. He returned with pistachio and lavender.

White Dog, YoYoMa and Nuka gathered around me for the pale green ice cream. Quinn pressed next to Steve for tastes of the honey sweetened flower choice. Puff, not an ice cream fan (can you imagine?), lay next to Steve.

We all shared bites from the cute little plastic spoon; each pup waiting for a turn then slurping the cool dessert down. The White Dog Army is very skilled at eating from a spoon so I was concentrating on the enjoyment of sharing when suddenly the entire spoon was yanked out of my hand as Nuka slurped her bite then clamped down on the spoon.

"Hey, give that back!" I cried and grabbed for her. She backed away and growled a possessive threat then hunkered down with her prize. Steve swooped her up and I grabbed the handle still firmly clenched in her teeth. We both heard the crunch of her biting through plastic and beginning to chew as I wrestled to open her death grip on the spoon. AWD swung her head up and rolled her lips back to nip...and in the process the handle fell out of her mouth. Most of the spoon she swallowed. (We will be watching to make sure there are no repercussions). White Dog and YoYoMa looked worried that treat time was now over...since there was no serving delivery device.

I replaced the plastic utensil with a sturdy metal one from the kitchen. The party resumed. Quinn made a point of showing that HE was a gentleman with graceful party manners...not a wild woman who wanted every single drop of the pistachio heaven, no matter what she had to digest to get it.

January 4, 2012

2012-01-04T21:04:00.004-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army
Wonderful World Wednesday
White Dog and the rest of us know fully well just how small the world really is. Our blog family extends around the globe. White Dog's friend and favorite musician, Take Abe, lives in Japan. Our home is filled with mementos from exotic locales Steve and I and friends have visited.

The WDA understands that helping tsunami victims in Japan or reaching out to earthquake victims in Peru is not that far a stretch. And that in these amazing technological times we are truly "one world."

In the "settlement days" even before my time, the trip from New Mexico to California took months and was fraught with dangers; yesterday a friend called to ask if she could come by next weekend to just "hang out and ski for 3 days." Her worst fear? A long line at security before she boards a plane that will get her to us in under an hour and a half.

There are no such thing as strangers any more or far away places and The WDA believes a global perspective requires us to no longer think in terms of "us" and "them," but rather of just an "all of us." To validate their plea for worldwide compassion and peaceful interaction, they ask you to consider this new study:

Everyone On Earth Is 4.74 Degrees Apart

By Kathryn Hawkins

According to a newFacebook study, just 4.74 degrees separate any person from another.

It’s long been saidthat everyone on Earth is six degrees of separation or fewer from one another.But according to a new study, we’re even closer than we thought: Researchers atFacebook and the University of Milan have found that the magic number is just 4.74.

The researcherstracked the connections of the 721 million Facebook members (more than a tenthof the world’s population) to determine how many links it would take to getfrom one person to a randomly selected other person. Worldwide, the averagenumber of links was 4.74, while in the United States, it took just 4.37connections to tie one person to another.

“When consideringeven the most distant Facebook user in the Siberian tundra or the Peruvian rainforest,” the company wrote on its blog, “a friend of your friend probably knowsa friend of their friend.”

So if you’re everfeeling a little alienated from society at large, take comfort in the knowledgethat you can reach anyone in the world within a few connections. Though it’sgot 7 billion people, the world is smaller than you think.

White Dog and the White Dog Army think if we are all just 4.74 degrees apart that we all should consider more wagging and less barking; more sharing and less snarling; more belly rubs and fewer bellyaches. It IS a small world, after all. Think about it!

January 3, 2012

2012-01-03T22:49:00.001-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army nearly convinced themselves that the holiday was going to continue. White Dog and Quinn went with Steve to run errands in the morning. Puff got a slow gentle brushing out (which she loves). Nuka and YoYoMa shared Steve's breakfast. The morning passed and there was no movement to the closet and dress clothes.

On his late nights, Steve doesn't go into school until nearly 1:30pm, so we do enjoy the pleasures of all being together deeply into the day. Just as the White Ones were lulled into thinking maybe a trip to the Park might be a good suggestion, Steve started his transformation into Outside World Human. He was not any keener about leaving and there was much stalling all around as water dishes were refreshed, and cuddles were given, and toys were brought for tug games.

When reality could be avoided no longer, the White Dog Army crowded around the door, first begging to go with, then demanding rounds of "see you later" pats, and finally staring sadly at the empty doorway. I tried not to be hurt as the entire Army ignored me and dejectedly curled up with sighs.

All evening everyone has been well behaved, too well behaved in fact, listless and sad and checking out of the window and door frequently. Every car driving by has caused heads to raise.

Steve just called to announce he is on his way home. That is my signal to warm the lentil soup. At the phone's ring, the White Dogs surrounded me and when I told them that "Dad was on his way home," every one scurried to the front door where they are sitting or pacing awaiting the sound of Steve's return.

I am grateful that tempers did not flair or frustrations build, but I hope tomorrow finds the WDA less resigned and depressed about the schedule. When the White Ones are not happy, no one is happy...and today there was no joy in Mudville!

January 2, 2012

2012-01-02T22:30:00.002-07:00

White Dog and the rest of the White Dog Army have enjoyed having Steve home for two consecutive 5-day weekends, for Christmas and again for the New Year's entrance. They have gotten VERY used to having his attention on demand and chances across the day to just share their routine.

Today was particularly precious because it is the last day of Steve's extended time off; tomorrow he returns to his normal schedule...starting with the Tuesday 11pm late night. The WDA sensed the coming change and clung to Steve as though White Dog positive energy could somehow stop the movement of the clock. Puff literally sat on his feet every time he took a seat. Quinn (dad's special boy) spent much of the day standing between Steve's knees with his head resting on dad's leg.

Even when Gregg and Candace came by for brunch and an early matinee, Steve received the attention. Our guests were politely greeted but then abandoned so that the White Ones could form a phalanx around the man of the hour. When we gathered coats to head out for The Adventures of Tin Tin (and Snowy), the WDA surged to go along at Steve's side...and were crushed to discover that a movie about a White Dog was not being shown in a venue that ALLOWED White Dogs to attend!

When we returned, it was as if Steve passed through a row of velcro pups who instantly became attached to his side and could not be removed. Tonight Quinn lays against Steve's left leg as he works on the computer; Nuka is pressed against the back wheels of his chair; White Dog sleeps on his Right and Puff is next to her. YoYoMa, not being able to get closer has settled for lying at my side, his usual place, while I blog.

Tomorrow will be a rough day for the WDA and Wednesday is Steve's OTHER late night as well as Michael's return to school...it will be a week of getting back into the groove and sorely missing the unity of the pack.

January 1, 2012

2012-01-01T14:00:00.000-07:00

White Dog, The Mighty Quinn, Nuka Angel, Puff the Magical, and YoYoMa wish you a New Year overflowing with treasures to fill your soul and bountiful blessings to enrich your lives.

In 2012, the White Dog Army challenges you ...

To go boldly into the future with confidence and belief...

To fill your hearts with love...

To meet your needs without forgetting those without...

To be strong enough to lean on friends in times of trouble...

To live in the sheer honesty of each moment...

Hope and Love...we ask the Universe to shower you with these every day of the new year!

December 31, 2011

2011-12-31T21:32:00.000-07:00

White Dog and The Other White Dog and Another White Dog and Still Another White Dog and Yet Another White Dog gathered to plan this blog post...a retrospective of the year. It was easy to take the stance of "what a horrible year, thank dog it is coming to a close;" there had been so much sadness and bad news.

But Puff, our shy girl who rarely claims the floor during our discussions, cleared her throat. "We can make the legacy of 2011 one of sorrow and disappointment but is that really what we want to remember about the last 365 days of our journey? I acknowledge that we have lost loved ones and there has been sickness and disaster, and we should remember and honor those warriors, but shouldn't we look for the flowers in the muck...the things that are milestones of success and progress and goodness? Hope and Love, that's what White Dog said yesterday...so let's celebrate those moments as we usher out the old."

YoYoMa nuzzled his sister in agreement. Quinn and Nuka moved closer to close ranks next to SAWD. All turned to White Dog, who began "In 2011 Puff won her battle and was pronounced by Dr. Julia to be completely cured of Heartworms. And dad left his corporate job to follow his heart call to teach and start his own firm. Michael graduated from high school..."

"YoYoMa came to live with us," Quinn picked up the list. "And so may of our friends across the country helped to get him to us, just like when I came. Our Heart Family grew by five as members adopted rescue animals and added a human to our number. And Michael was accepted into the Transitions Outreach Program where he is learning skills that will help him become more independent like how he rides the bus all over town by himself now."

Nuka chimed in, "Don't forget the 2MillionDogs Puppy Up Walk to End Cancer. We worked hard and planned and really helped fight the c monster. THAT was big, right momma?"

"On a broader scale, we saw humans from all over the world help those in Japan and Thailand and our Midwest who were devastated by disasters. Lives were saved by those everyday heroes. Rescuers and transporters and fosters and shelters provided food and homes and second chances to thousands in need...without pay or glory...and that is not just during times of disaster" YoYoMa added.

White Dog retook the floor. "There have been advances in cures for so many canine and human diseases; too late for some of our own but a step closer toward guaranteeing less suffering. Speaking of our own, we have the incredible fortune of being part of a network of the most caring, sharing, and giving beings in existence. They enrich our lives and challenge us to live up to a higher standard. We have a roof over our heads, running water (yes the plumbing appears fixed), food when we are hungry. We have friends to comfort and encourage us. We have enough of everything we need and more than most of the world."

The White Dog Army huddled and agreed, 2011 was not a perfect year, we had to work hard for most of our progress, but we DID win more than we lost. We walk out of this year not looking back in regret but forward in hope...into the future!

December 30, 2011

2011-12-30T23:29:00.000-07:00

White Dog put her head in my lap. "There is so much sadness, momma! Why are so many suffering and sick and in need during this time that is supposed to be festive and joyful?" We had jut read the news that two more friends in our blogging community were fighting for their lives and there were tears running down my cheeks.

"I wish I had an answer, Little One. Or at least an idea of how to make it stop," I replied. " I agree that it seems so wrong."

"But what about hope? and love? and the power to make miracles where they are least expected? Aren't they powerful enough to change things?" White Dog pressed.

"Sometimes it seems that there is no hope left and love is just accepting the situation and miracles escape our reach. We are overwhelmed and surrender to fate."

"But hope and love, momma, are the food of the soul! As long as your soul is strong you can never be defeated! You decide how you walk through your day...you decide how you fight the good war...you decide when it is time to continue your journey beyond here. Don't you see, momma? Hope and love! Don't send tears of sadness; send songs of loving caring heart bursting hope and love...there is no more powerful gift."

"You give ME hope, White Dog," I whispered. "Thank you."

December 29, 2011

2011-12-29T22:25:00.000-07:00

White Dog announced, "Marcos is here!" I thought for a moment and then looked out of the window to see the plumbing truck parked in the driveway. Yes, we are now on a first name basis with the plumber. The "fix" from the other day...wasn't...as we discovered last night after Michael came up to tell us his floor was once again underwater.

A bit of exploration on Steve's part determined that the shower combined with regular water use like washing dishes and using the toilet produced the fountain effect, albeit much less majestic than the other night.

So Marcos was back at nine this morning and like a house cardiologist, he spent a long time cleaning out the clogged "arteries" to no avail. He uncapped an access cap to the line which by the looks of it had NEVER been opened in the nearly 90 years of this house's life. This allowed him to reach the distance of line between the inside of the house and the other side of the foundation.

The White Dog Army was fascinated with the thick black sludge that packed that space. It was pungently stinky and gooey. It made me thank dog that fate had not destined me for a plumber's life. Marcos again attacked the clog with precision and thoroughness...and apologized profusely for the sludge mess left in Michael's bathroom.

After being at our house for nearly three hours, Marcos came in shaking his head. White Dog saw a glint of defeat in his eyes and ran over to offer comfort. I crossed my fingers and silently pleaded for good news.

"I went out from the house about 50'," he said sadly. "and the other day we went in both directions. I am hitting a thick blockage about 50 feet out. I think we are going to need to trench and dig up the pipe." Steve stayed calm and started discussing the scheduling. The White Ones could tell by my panicked look that there was going to be a BIG reduction in treats and grooming and "extras" if this trenching were to come to pass.

"Could you try using the cap access one more time from the front back to the house," I asked (using I hope my best construction manager voice and not my terrified budgeter whisper). "Well...." Marcos looked into five pairs of pitiful White Dog eyes and was hooked. "All right, but I think the clog is too jammed."

The plumber dragged his super duper routing/rodding snakey tool across the yard and opened the access. In the windows Puff and YoYoMa stared, sending WDA positive energy. Nuka and Quinn waited on the sunporch sniffing and yipping encouragement. White Dog and Steve paced nervously outside. I leaned my head back and closed my eyes, visualizing clean, clear running pipes...like a commercial for bottled water.

"Well, I'll be..." Marcos uttered. "I think we broke through!" No one dared to burst into cheers as he continued for nearly another half hour. And then he was done...the clog was gone...but was it really? We have been at this point and became cocky and jubilant too soon. High fives flickered as a concept but were clamped down as we all agreed to "wait and see!"

Hopefully...that word again...hopefully we leave the plumbing problems back in 2011 when we gratefully clamber into the New Year.

December 28, 2011

2011-12-28T21:24:00.002-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army
Wonderful World Wednesday
White Dog and The White Dog Army believe the most wonderful news the world could receive is that the cancer monster has been defeated once and for all. Hope is a powerful weapon and it drives the advances that we pray will mean that someday...soon...cancer will touch no one.

This year, 2011, has seen this beast take too many too soon; it has caused an ocean of tears and a desert of pain. But we have made progress for both animals and humans and one tiny step at a time we are pushing cancer back. Hope is the thing that guarantees we WILL win and as the year winds down, the WDA wants to leave you with this...

A moment of hope...and a vision of how wonderful a cancer-free world will be:

Man's Best Friend: Key to Brain Cancer Cure?
DECEMBER 06, 2011 CBS

CBS News correspondent Debbye Turner Bell reports on an experimental vaccine for a deadly form of brain cancer that's being tested on dogs that stimulates the patient's own immune system to fight the tumor, and perhaps even prevent a recurrence of the disease.

December 27, 2011

2011-12-27T21:19:00.002-07:00

White Dog rolled her eyes when Michael came into the office late last night as we were closing down for walks and announced,"The toilet in my bathroom is shooting water up like a fountain and there is water all over the floor."

Steve immediately jumped up and ran for the plunger in the closet. Then he and Michael headed back downstairs. After a bit Steve came back up and flushed our main unit. White Dog and I heard Michael yell up "Water shooting!" Steve then turned the faucets on in the sink and tub. "Now?" he asked. "Even higher," was the muffled response. The White Dog Army was on full supervisory alert at this point running between the bathroom and the top of the stairs, trying to offer help as Michael slogged wet towels up and hung them outside over the deck railing.

"I don't think we need to call a plumber tonight," Steve reported accompanied by Michael and surrounded by the WDA. "We can use the upstairs toilet if we need to during the night and I will call first thing. I think it is a clogged pipe in the line outside."

White Dog looked at me sympathetically since I had just drunk a large glass of water and she headed out of the dog door. I had visions of needing to follow her at 2am.

The plumber arrived by 9am and was greeted by the WDA's enthusiastic announcement that they would be willing to help if needed...especially if there was digging to be done. Fortunately, we had installed access cleanouts several years ago so the process was fairly simple. The Army was fascinated by the huge rodding snake that disappeared down the hole. Quinn took up a position in the bathroom to alert us to any fountaining or backups. White Dog sat next to me and chanted along as I begged the gods of flushing to be gentle on our checkbook.

In a relatively short time, it was pronounced that all was clear. Steve, followed by the WDA flushed and ran water and tested the system...all looked good. The bill did not make us bleed. The sun burst through the clouds...and suddenly EVERYONE in the house needed to seek relief.

Our Pay It Forward Winners have chosen some great charities to receive their donations; while not everyone has gotten back to us we already know that...

The Doxies with Moxie are gifting the Dachshund Rescue of North America
Swimtaxi234 is making a special presentation to the Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston
Khyra is donating her winnings to The Houston Pittie Pack with special love to Shelby
Bichonpawz will thrill the Delaware Valley Bichon Rescue with a contribution
and the Florida Furkids and Angel Snifffie are sending their donation to Space Coast Feline Network.

White Dog is excited that her birthday celebration will benefit so many all around the country and she cannot wait to see who the others choose.

December 26, 2011

2011-12-26T22:21:00.000-07:00

White Dog gave me until noon to catch my breath from the holiday and then she tapped me on the knee. "Aren't you forgetting something," she asked? I looked around the chaos slowly once again becoming orderly and raised an eyebrow. "I can't believe you FORGOT!," my little Drama Queen wailed dropping to the ground in a swoon. "You PROMISED and THEY," she shot angry arrows at her sleeping siblings, "were supposed to help!" "You know I always keep my promises and the White Dog Army has been doing extra duty as hosts and supervisors and entertainers during the past three days, give them a break. Take a breath and tell me what has you so upset."

"The winners of my Pay It Forward Birthday Celebration! The Army was supposed to choose seven winners TODAY!!!" White Dog began to pace and whine. "OK, let the other White Ones have a well deserved nap, you and I can do this together right now. I am sure they will not mind."

White Dog hopped up on my lap and we fired up the computer. There were 32 comments on her December 22nd post plus 2 more the next day and three on Facebook's networked blog link...a total of 37. I looked at her and she confirmed my math. We agreed to go from earliest to last comments in assigning their number. Then we went to www.Random.org and randomly generated seven winners. For each we will donate $25 to the charity of their choice in their honor. White Dog was smiling now.

"Can I announce the winners," she pleaded? "Are your typing skills up to it? Although I admit mine are pretty iffy, too!" "Momma, I will count and read the winner to you and YOU write it down...ready?"

Drum roll, please. The winners, as they were drawn are:

bichonpawz
furkidsmom
SwimFlyAway
Teddy Bear
Fuzzy Tales
Khyra
Doxies with Moxie

So we ask each of the winners to contact at us at sehismith@aol.com to let us know their charity of choice and how to reach them. Congratulations...and thank you everyone for making White Dog's birthday extra special.

December 25, 2011 after the fact

2011-12-26T15:57:00.002-07:00

White Dog and the rest of the White Dog Army slept in on Christmas Day. After all, the last Open House guest from our Christmas Eve party did not leave until 1:30am on Christmas Day ("Is that allowed for a Christmas EVE bash?" YoYoMa yawned).

For the first time ever the White Dog Army had visitors drop by to see them. Of course Dragon was there, being an honorary White Dog, but the Army met Biscuit for the first time. Eskie Biscuit is newly transplanted from Alabama and used her Southern charms on our gentleman, Quinn, who spent the evening showing her the best spots to lie in and how to use the dog door and which treats were the best. A first time guest, Fred longingly said, "if only I had know it was OK" often enough, that White Dog finally sent him home to fetch his very long eared cocker spaniel and his feisty little Boston terrier...they had a great time when he returned.

After so many days of preparation, it made the WDA's heart sing as guests loaded up plates with pulled pork (which had tortured those here as it slow cooked for nearly an entire day), curried chicken noodles, a spicy vegetable rice, Swedish meatballs (Quinn's, and now Biscuit's favorite), dips and crudite, cute little ham sliver croissant or Italian salami sandwiches, a cheese tray (with White Dog's favorite, triple creme brie), and mostacolli (my mother's recipe and a tradition). Michael's guacamole, his first effort at party cooking turned out to be a big hit.

The dessert table was equally laden and centered with the gingerbread doghouse, which we did indeed start nibbling on at the end of the night. The White Ones each got their own gingerdog and happily munched down Steve and White Dog's efforts.

Christmas morning slowly started with our tradition of Christmas cookies along with coffee for breakfast as we opened gifts and then languished nibbling as we geared up for the day. Late afternoon we took a ride and went to the Park (in the northern part of town where there is still snow). Our Christmas is a completely no hassle, no schedule form form day which is rare in our lives. We graze from leftovers and just soak up the joy of being together. It leaves us feeling blessed and filled.

We hope that each of you had a moment of such bliss in your day...and that you were sprinkled with the magic dust that comes but once a year. May the smiles and warm feelings and contentment and sense of all being right continue clear through the New Year.

Here are some random photos of our day...

December 24, 2011

2011-12-25T13:29:00.002-07:00

White Dog, The Mighty Quinn, Nuka Angel, Puff the Magical, YoYoMa, Michael, Steve and I wish our blogging family a Christmas filled with joyous wonder...

December 23, 2011

2011-12-24T00:13:00.001-07:00

White Dog wants to thank everyone for the lovely sentiments and very kind words on her birthday. The day was extra special because of those comments and thinking of you all kept her warm as the temperatures plummeted in the afternoon to the low 20's and the gusting winds tried to blow out her candles, first with blasts and then with snow.

True to their word, Quinn, Nuka, Puff and YoYoMa will chose seven commenters to pay forward a special gift to the charities of their choice...but Momma begs that all be patient until Monday for the announcement since I am still scrambling to live in the moment AND get everything done for tomorrow's Open house and for Christmas Day.

Here are some highlights of White Dog's Day that began with almond cheese croissants for breakfast.
Cappy and Ollie know just how to make a girl feel beautiful! A new travel case filled with treats AND some stuffies to cuddle with were the perfect choices and were so thoughtful.

Andy, it seems, knows that a romantic gesture makes the heart leap with excitement and causes the sweetest of dreams. Andy (Sally Ann's titled Eskie brother) has been courting White Dog in the most gentlemanly way and sent a gift that was very imaginative and bold...a bit of himself! White Dog blushed at the pieces of his fur taped to a MOST endearing note...and then hung the card up over her water bowl where she could see him everytime she walked by or took a nap.

Our friend Kittie from KittiesCakes sent White Dog a kit to build a gingerbread doghouse...complete with likenesses of the White Dog Army. Steve and White Dog spent the evening assembling and decorating the house which will grace our dessert table tomorrow night.

December 22, 2011 Happy Birthday White Dog!

2011-12-21T22:01:00.000-07:00

White Doghas grown up beneath the banner of this blog. It was started at the urging of Steve to document our new baby’s life and to give exercise to my writingskills. In the process of sharing our life with White Dog (2,366 posts today)we have become members of an incredible family in the blogger world, havestretched as individuals, and have found the courage to journey life paths thatweren’t necessarily in our original plans.

If you readthis blog for more than three days, I suspect it is quickly obvious that SikuMarie, is la Perrita Blanca de mi Corazon (the little white dog of my heart).She is my confident, my critic, my cheerleader, my challenger, and myconscience. Siku is wise and strong, compassionate and a defender of those inneed. She is the standard to which I aspire.

Raised anonly child of privilege for more than half of her life, White Dog has one byone adjusted to each special needs member we have brought into our family. Shehas set boundaries (no one else can sleep on the bed with us) but she hasembraced her responsibilities to the rest of the Army (it is she who sitsinside the dog door and barks so Quinn, who gets confused in the nighttime, canfind his way back in).

Every single day I thank the Universe for my little one for I simply cannot imagine lifewithout her. That day may come, and I have made a vow to her to be brave and tolove again, but for today that thought is banished and we celebrate life. Sikuis a joyous dance of embracing the now and being open to the wonder thatsurrounds us. She deserves positive energy and focused delight on her day.

Today TheMighty Quinn, Nuka Angel, Puff the Magical, and YoYoMa ask you to join paws andhands with us in a whirling birthday Bhangra to honor the leader of the White DogArmy…dancing, laughing, sharing, and then some CAKE! Happy Birthday, Siku Marie

Steve has put together this Smilebox as his tribute to the girl who loves to go forsunrise runs with him, shares ownership in his Zap! Electric car, and who will stayawake to watch musicals with him long after I doze off. Siku owned a special piece of him the momenthe pulled the two-pound ball of fluff from her travel crate at the airport so long ago and she looked up at him, blinking in surprise.

Remember, at the end of this festive day (which we are going to stretch out as long as wecan), the WDA will randomly choose seven commenters who will win theopportunity to direct a special gift to the charity of their choice!

December 21, 2011

2011-12-21T15:26:00.000-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army
Wonderful WorldWednesday

White Dog and the rest ofThe White Dog Army love this season because it seems to bring out the best inhumans. While they aren’t really sure why it takes a particular season orcalendar event to trigger mass kindness, compassion and generosity, they arethrilled that so many DO open their hearts and reach out.

The White Ones sort of expect year round caring and sharing basedupon this community and what we regularly witness in our blogging family, but White Dog says that if ittakes a special reason for the rest of the world to do their part to create aWonderful World that the WDA would be glad to put to get a calendar to motivatethem…starting with tomorrow, December 22^nd…The White Dog’s seventhbirthday!

For today, White Dog and theWDA would like to share this rash of random kindnesses that is breaking out across the country to make Christmasa little nicer for unsuspecting families. We love random acts of kindness andencourage them year round…

Anonymous Donors Pay Off Kmart Layaway Accounts

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The young fatherstood in line at the Kmart layaway counter, wearing dirty clothes and worn-outboots. With him were three small children.

He asked to pay something on his bill because he knew he wouldn't be able toafford it all before Christmas. Then a mysterious woman stepped up to thecounter.

"She told him, 'No, I'm paying for it,'" recalled Edna Deppe,assistant manager at the store in Indianapolis. "He just stood there andlooked at her and then looked at me and asked if it was a joke. I told him itwasn't, and that she was going to pay for him. And he just busted out intears."

At Kmart stores across the country, Santa seems to be getting some help:Anonymous donors are paying off strangers' layaway accounts, buying the Christmasgifts other families couldn't afford, especially toys and children's clothesset aside by impoverished parents.

Before she left the store Tuesday evening, the Indianapolis woman in hermid-40s had paid the layaway orders for as many as 50 people. On the way out,she handed out $50 bills and paid for two carts of toys for a woman in line atthe cash register.

"She was doing it in the memory of her husband who had just died, and shesaid she wasn't going to be able to spend it and wanted to make people happywith it," Deppe said. The woman did not identify herself and only askedpeople to "remember Ben," an apparent reference to her husband.

Deppe, who said she's worked in retail for 40 years, had never seen anythinglike it.

"It was like an angel fell out of the sky and appeared in our store,"she said.

Most of the donors have done their giving secretly.

Dona Bremser, an Omaha nurse, was at work when a Kmart employee called to tellher that someone had paid off the $70 balance of her layaway account, whichheld nearly $200 in toys for her 4-year-old son.

"I was speechless," Bremser said. "It made me believe inChristmas again."

Dozens of other customers have received similar calls in Nebraska, Michigan,Iowa, Indiana and Montana.

The benefactors generally ask to help families who are squirreling away itemsfor young children. They often pay a portion of the balance, usually all but afew dollars or cents so the layaway order stays in the store's system.

The phenomenon seems to have begun in Michigan before spreading, Kmartexecutives said.

"It is honestly being driven by people wanting to do a good deed at thistime of the year," said Salima Yala, Kmart's division vice president forlayaway.

The good Samaritans seem to be visiting mainly Kmart stores, though a Wal-Martspokesman said a few of his stores in Joplin, Mo., and Chicago have also seensome layaway accounts paid off.

Kmart representatives say they did nothing to instigate the secret Santas orspread word of the generosity. But it's happening as the company struggles tocompete with chains such as Wal-Mart and Target.

Kmart may be the focus of layaway generosity, Yala said, because it is one ofthe few large discount stores that has offered layaway year-round for aboutfour decades. Under the program, customers can make purchases but let the storehold onto their merchandise as they pay it off slowly over several weeks.

The sad memories of layaways lost prompted at least one good Samaritan to payoff the accounts of five people at an Omaha Kmart, said Karl Graff, the store'sassistant manager.

"She told me that when she was younger, her mom used to set up things onlayaway at Kmart, but they rarely were able to pay them off because they justdidn't have the money for it," Graff said.

He called a woman who had been helped, "and she broke down in tears on thephone with me. She wasn't sure she was going to be able to pay off theirlayaway and was afraid their kids weren't going to have anything forChristmas."

"You know, 50 bucks may not sound like a lot, but I tell you what, at theright time, it may as well be a million dollars for some people," Graffsaid.

Graff's store alone has seen about a dozen layaway accounts paid off in thelast 10 days, with the donors paying $50 to $250 on each account.

"To be honest, in retail, it's easy to get cynical about the holidays,because you're kind of grinding it out when everybody else is having familytime," Graff said. "It's really encouraging to see this side ofChristmas again."

Lori Stearnes of Omaha also benefited from the generosity of a stranger whopaid all but $58 of her $250 layaway bill for toys for her four youngestgrandchildren.

Stearnes said she and her husband live paycheck to paycheck, but she plans touse the money she was saving for the toys to help pay for someone else'slayaway.

In Missoula, Mont., a man spent more than $1,200 to pay down the balances ofsix customers whose layaway orders were about to be returned to a Kmart store'sinventory because of late payments.

Store employees reached one beneficiary on her cellphone at Seattle Children'sHospital, where her son was being treated for an undisclosed illness.

"She was yelling at the nurses, 'We're going to have Christmas afterall!'" store manager Josine Murrin said.

A Kmart inPlainfield Township, Mich., called Roberta Carter last week to let her know aman had paid all but 40 cents of her $60 layaway.

Carter, a mother of eight from Grand Rapids, Mich., said she cried upon hearingthe news. She and her family have been struggling as she seeks a full-time job.

"My kids will have clothes for Christmas," she said.

Angie Torres, a stay-at-home mother of four children under the age of 8, was inthe Indianapolis Kmart on Tuesday to make a payment on her layaway bill whenshe learned the woman next to her was paying off her account.

"I started to cry. I couldn't believe it," said Torres, who doubtedshe would have been able to pay off the balance. "I was in disbelief. Ihugged her and gave her a kiss."

A reminder: The White Dog Army invites you to stop by tomorrow for a chance to spread a bit of Christmas magic yourself. Thursday is SikuMarie's (THE White Dog) seventh birthday. Tocelebrate, her brothers and sisters will randomly draw seven lucky winners fromthe comments left on her day. Each winner have the opportunity to choose acharity recipient of a special prize...and White Dog will have the thrill ofher favorite kind of bash, a Pay It Forward Party.

December 20, 2011

2011-12-20T21:50:00.000-07:00

White Dog like most everyone in our blogging community has spent the past days in grief-stricken tears tempered with bursting pride in our family of two- and four-leggeds. It has swelled our souls with an hallelujah chorus over the outpouring of support and help and understanding that has swept across the world to give comfort to one of our own. This time we only had to look out our front door to see clearly that it IS a wonderful world, despite the tragedies and uncertainties that surround us.

And now an incredible idea of creating a Memory Quilt for Sandra isbeing planned to help her through her pain. It will be queen sized and will have the five Angels' likenessesappliqued on it. The quilt will be made by Agnes Bullock... of the Dachsies With Moxie. It willbe ready by Valentine's Day. Agnes (affectionately know as.. What's Her Name,by her furbabies) had an even MORE wonderful Idea.. She is willing to put a bitof YOU into the quilt. Agnes will stitch a Small (6 inch SQUARE) bit of cloththat Means something to YOU into the quilt. That way Sandra will have the mostPERSONAL tribute to her beloved ones possible.

If you would like to send a BIT of YOU to be included in the quilt we know thatit would mean so much to Sandra. WHAT would work? Bits of your first Blankie...scraps of beloved Stuffies... material from your favorite BED or a Tee Shirt orother of your "clothes".. heck... even a piece of your Baff Towel.Remember Whatever scrap of TREASURE you choose... must be WASHABLE and it mustbe Flat... Not like a Collar or a Rope toy.. so that it can actually bestitched into the quilt. I think you get the idea. Just make it be somethingthat has Meaning to YOU. I KNOW... you don't want to cut up a treasure... butit is a small scrap... and that little Hole that is left behind for You to seewill help remind you of what you DO have. Small sacrifice on OUR part... toHelp Fill a HUGE HOLE in Sandra's World. RIGHT?

DEADLINE to SEND your Beloved piece of your Cator Dog's LIFE... is January 16,2012.

Please Email Agnes at trainwife1962 AT hotmailDOT com for the Address of where to send your 6 inch square. You MUSTsay: Pittie Pack Quilt in the subject line to ensure that it does not go toSPAM... You will receive a reply with the mailing Address.

A reminder: The White Dog Army wants our community to be thinking of where each of you might spread a bit of Christmas magic. Siku Marie's (The White Dog) seventh birthday is December 22nd, this Thursday. To celebrate, her brothers and sisters will randomly draw seven lucky winners from the comments left on her day. Each winner have the opportunity to choose a charity recipient of a special prize...and White Dog will have the thrill of her favorite kind of bash, a Pay It Forward Party.

P.S. For all of our jealous friends who thought Albuquerque was being blanketed with double digit depths of snow last night...our mountains, indeed, got a major frosting and looked glorious this morning. Here in town we got a couple of inches that were mostly washed away as the sleet and rain pushed the snow out. Overnight we had more issues with icy roads than with white stuff...still, we hope the wetness coming your way DOES become the elusive (apparently) white dust for which you yearn.

December 19, 2011

2011-12-19T23:18:00.002-07:00

White Dog hopped up on the bed after a predawn "necessary" trip outside. I reached to pet her in my half-sleep; she was frosty to the touch and wet. I opened an eye. "I think there has been some mistake," she said as she stretched out to fully dry herself on the comforter. "We have the weather that Khyra or Remington ordered!"I was too warm and comfy under the blankets to confirm but I could hear the rain then sleet then silence against the window as the falling water changed states from rain to hail to snow and back again.

As the household began to waken and the White Dog Army make it trek out of the dog door, it became obvious that it was cold and some kind of wet. "Thanks, Nuka," I grumbled as she stood next to my side of the bed and shook her coat dry.

And so it was all day. Grey like my memories of Chicago winters. Damp that made you cold to the bone (not normal for life here in the desert). And crazy flickering wetness that changed from one form and intensity to another in just matters of minutes.

The WDA spent much time napping because it was an ideal activity for such a day. Those times that required a trip outside was like watching school girls standing outside of the twirling ropes waiting to jump in for "double dutch." The pups stood watching and when the falling water slowed down, they dashed out, did what was needed and hurried back in.

No one has shown much interest in an evening walk preferring the idea of curling up in the warm kitchen and guarding the baking almond pound cake which sends delicious pleas for protection throughout the house. Steve seems very contented next to the home fires as well.

The WDA heard on the news that our little winter storm will be heading back in the proper direction (East) tomorrow where big snow and subzero temperatures are expected. We know our friends that way will be thrilled at the chance to frolic and romp in the cold white stuff. We gladly send this weather forward and hope (for those of you so inclined) that your Christmas is white.

A reminder: The White Dog Army wants our community to be thinking of where each of you might spread a bit of Christmas magic. Siku Marie's (The White Dog) seventh birthday is December 22nd, this Thursday. To celebrate, her brothers and sisters will randomly draw seven lucky winners from the comments left on her day. Each winner have the opportunity to choose a charity recipient of a special prize...and White Dog will have the thrill of her favorite kind of bash, a Pay It Forward Party.

December 18, 2011

2011-12-18T22:34:00.001-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army sensed Steve and my inability to fully accept the horror that had happened in Houston. We both had a restless night filled with nightmares and tidal waves of grief over the incredible loss. This morning we cuddled all together and pressed close for longer than usual.

This was to be our "get things done, our Christmas Eve Open House is only six days away and we are so behind" day. I had mapped out an action plan that included cleaning and cooking and wrapping gifts. We were going to stay focused on the upcoming holiday...hard work now for big rewards later.

And then Dragon and Senji's dad called. It had been a neglectful busy week at their house and the boys really wanted to go hiking with the White Dog Army. Did we have time?

No, of course we didn't have time. We had things to do. We had cleaning (the fan blades have cobwebs what will people think next weekend). We had to finish wrapping and tagging gifts. No we didn't have time to spend with friends....sharing the sky and exercise and nature...being together and just laughing. We had STUFF that needed doing.

I didn't say these things, of course. Because simultaneously, I looked into every one of those floofy white faces that I love and remembered we held no guarantees that we'd have another chance. We have to live each moment and take every opportunity we are granted to let those important to us know their place in our hearts.

Is the White Dog Army more important than nose printless windows? No question! Does helping a best friend walk off stress take precedence over putting fancy ribbons on Christmas gifts? Don't be silly enough to even ask! Does sharing a moment that will never occur again trump a fifth variety of cookie on the dessert table?

The tears flowed as I thought about all the things that will never be the same for those in Houston. Things that no one would guessed the day before would suddenly change forever. And I looked around me with the aching thought that it could have been us...or Dragon's family...or any of us.

Time is a treasure. Spend it wisely.

"OK," I said when Gregg answered my return call. "Let meet at the Nature Center at 9am and give these pups a workout! After let's have brunch somewhere where the kids can have really really good bacon. We're celebrating the Christmas countdown."

December 17, 2011

2011-12-17T20:30:00.000-07:00

White Dogand The rest of the White Dog Army was stunned to hear the awful news that firehad sent five members of the Houston Pittie Pack over the Rainbow Bridge andhad completely destroyed their family’s home. Our wonderful blogging community’sinstant outreach and incredibly loving support has made us proud to be a partof this amazing family. While our tears and tributes and help cannot turn backtime to fix things (would that it could), hopefully we can provide solace andunderstanding and share the pain enough to make the adjustment bearable. Hereis the Chip-In link to help: Chip In account.

The WhiteDog Army has no words to embellish the eloquent and sincere feelings that havebeen expressed across the blogworld . Others have said clearly and beautifullywhat is in our hearts. Instead, we would like our tribute to be one of increasingawareness and reminding everyone of just how fragile our control is. It is ourdesire that through this post, part of the legacy of Shelby, Guero, CocoChanel, Lucky and Tiger can be livessaved.

http://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/media/drytreefire/tree3202402web.avi

The video clip above from the Building and Fire Research Laboratory of theNational Institute of Standards and Technology illustrates what happens whenfire touches a dry tree. At five seconds, the fire extends up the tree andblack smoke with searing gases streaks across the ceiling. Fresh air near thefloor feeds the fire. The sofa, coffee table and the carpet ignite prior to anyflame contact. Within 40 seconds "flashover" occurs - that's when anentire room erupts into flames, oxygen is depleted and dense, deadly toxicsmoke engulfs the scene. The point is not the Christmas tree, it is how quicklythe room fills with smoke that makes vision impossible. Imagine the disorientationfor humans and pets as you try to navigate through the heat, and noise (housefires are VERY noisy) and total darkness. Panic is avoidable. 40 seconds…lessthan a minute FROM THE START OF THE FIRE to realize what is happening, make aplan, gather your loved ones, and get out. Try it…blindfold yourself andattempt to save yourself and your loved ones…it is nearly impossible withoutthe heat and noise and fear. Imagine the real thing.

Here are some things you can do right now, don’t put itoff, to increase your chances.

· Ina window on EVERY SIDE and at every level of your house place an outward facingdecal or note alerting firefighters that there are pets inside; include thenumber of pets. Make the Pet Rescue Stickers obvious, your pets’ lives are atstake. Make sure the information is accurate. There is nosense to risk someone’s life to save a pet that no longer lives with you.

· Knowwhere your pet’s comfort zones are (where they go when they are scared orsick).

Let a neighbor know about each family member that occupies your home including your pets. Tell them where they are and where they have a tendency to hide when afraid. I’m sure they won’t mind, especially when you return the favor. Better yet, give them a nicely written sheet with the info so they won’t have to remember at a time of crisis.
For each of your pets, make a flier with a photo and description. Keep them in your glove box or somewhere unconnected to the house. It is possible in the panic and chaos of the fire that your pets that get out might run away in terror. The fliers provide instant information to get people search for the runner.

· Havetraining drills so your pet learns to come to you WITHOUT QUESTION when yougive the command. (it is hard but can be done…and must be practicedfrequently).

Have an emergency escape plan for the entire family and practice that plan periodically. Everyone can use a refresher course now and then. Give everyone a specific duty and make sure that includes someone to be responsible for the family pet, however, no human life should be put in danger. Only 23% have actually developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. A well thought-out plan can ensure your family can escape quickly and safely. Don’t think elaborate escape plans. Think caveman solutions. Grab the lamp and smash out the window toss your pet through the window and keep moving. Forget leashes and gathering more than one pet at a time. He stands a better chance surviving the fall than if you spend precious moments struggling with a panicked pet.
Don’t forget that an animal that is in a crate can’t make a run for it. His fate would definitely be in a hero’s hands. Make sure the location and number of crates is well known and is clearly marked on Rescue Stickers: X Number of Crated Animals Unable to Escape in This Room.
Listen to your pet. If your pet is acting strange in the middle of the night or during the day, get up and investigate. Your pet counts on you to take care of him/her, let them return the favor.
Don’t stop for anything. There is nothing more precious than your life.

TheWhite Dog Army grieves with the rest of our community over the losses of ThePittie Pack. Our heart breaks knowing that heroic efforts were made to lead allto safety. We pray that no one ever has to live through the hellishness ourfriends in Houston have experienced. And ask the Universe to grant comfort tothis family during this catastrophic time.

December 16, 2011

2011-12-17T12:32:00.000-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army left Quinn sleeping soundly when we went out early to run errands and enjoy our weekend-beginning-Friday. He was settled comfortably in the sunshine streaming through the window and was snoring. We left a strip of duck jerky next to him in lieu of a note and headed out.
The game plan was to pick up a few last minute things, do some normal life stuff, and then get home to spend the afternoon focusing on wrapping presents and getting boxes packed so that we could FINALLY send our holiday greetings on their way across the country. Steve was home so the thought of this process was not so daunting as the other night when I attempted to so it alone with the White Dog Army supervising.

When we got home Quinn was awake and standing guard over some packages that had been delivered while we were out (Michael had brought them in). He quickly let the WDA know that there was something special in one of them. White Dog pushed the others aside and read the label..."Hey, this one is for us!" Steve stopped the onslaught long enough to open the box.

There was a gasp! Then a soft woo of gratitude at the WDA's good fortune. Inside the box with a smile on the outside were TWO, bless me Ultima, TWO huge bags of duck jerky in the familiar purple bag. This treasure had been sent by Teddy and Sierra (Teddy's Tales) as a Christmas greeting that transcended all languages.

"Can we have some?" Puff asked looking up at Steve. "We don't have to wait until Christmas morning, do we?" woofed Quinn. "You know you guys DID abandon me with only the tiniest bit of kibble in my bowl. I was starving AND worried!" Steve cuddled TOWD and started to apologize. "Wait a minute, though, we DID leave you some jerky right next to where you were napping." "You did?" Quinn dashed into the office and came out chewing away." I guess now everyone is going to need a piece," Steve laughed and tore open the bag...but just one!"

"Ummmm, FIRST isn't there something you all want to say?" I asked. White Dog thought for a moment then called the Army to attention. "Thank you Teddy and Sierra, we are lucky to have such good and caring friends. We are even luckier that you are so thoughtful. Merry Christmas and a bountiful New Year to all of your family! You deserve the best!" The others woo'd in agreement and sealed their gratefulness with the sounds of happy enjoyment.

December 15, 2011

2011-12-15T22:43:00.006-07:00

White Dog nosed YoYoMa from behind to get out of her way; she nimbly jumped over Nuka; and bounded into the watching chair with such force that the chair rocked backwards. Her actions had drawn the entire White Dog Army into the living room and they looked at her expectantly. White Dog hunkered down on the chair back and waited. The WDA waited.

She watched as the substitute mailman (obviously a Holiday Hire) pulled stacks of boxes out of his truck and carefully read the addresses. She remained in position and the others followed her cue while he piled six boxes, slung his mailbag over his shoulder, stooped to lift the stack into his arms. Her eyes gleamed as he walked up our driveway and she gave the Army a subtle signal.

The poor guy never saw it coming. Just as he reached the front door and was bending to place the packages against the door, White Dog sounded the "Mailman!" red alert!
Bedlam broke loose in a chorus of barks and howls straight from a horror movie and when the civil servant looked up into the window all he saw was White Dog leaping at the window, lips rolled back and teeth bared; in the background a sea of white fur surged to break loose.

He knocked over the stack and spent precious time replacing the boxes before he took off down the driveway chased by the continued Army call to action. THEN he realized that he had forgotten to slide the envelope mail into the slot.

White Dog paused in amazement at his daring as he, sworn to let nothing stand in the way of delivering the mail, turned and returned to the front door. White Dog called for a second assault and YoYoMa stood front feet on the chair to assure the postman that the WDA was serious. And Quinn let out his deep bass "Woof!" "Woof!" The mail flew through the slot and this time, he cut across the neighbor's front yard to get out of sight quicker.

The WDA continued for a bit just in case he should try a sneak third try and then dissolved into yips of laughter. "Great job!" White Dog congratulated. "Wish we had that one on video!" "Those temps are almost TOO easy," YoYo commented.

"Ah, White Ones," I interjected. "It is only 10 days until Christmas--maybe you ought to consider that naughty or nice list? Wouldn't want to find nothing under the tree."

"Holy kitty litter," Nuka yipped. "I didn't even think of that! Maybe we should chase him and apologize." "Probably not the best plan," I counselled.

A reminder: The White Dog Army wants our community to be thinking of where each of you might spread a bit of Christmas magic. Siku Marie's (The White Dog) seventh birthday is December 22nd, next Thursday. To celebrate, her brothers and sisters will randomly draw seven lucky winners from the comments left on her day. Each winner have the opportunity to choose a charity recipient of a special prize...and White Dog will have the thrill of her favorite kind of bash, a Pay It Forward Party.

December 14, 2011

2011-12-14T17:41:00.008-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army
Wonderful World Wednesday

White Dog and The White Dog Army know Santa is being inundated by letters from all over the world written by hopeful two- and four-leggeds detailing their needs and wants for this coming Christmas. The letters are penned with the belief that makes this season magical and the world more wonderful, even if just for a brief time. The White Dog Army wants to share to especially moving examples:

The White Dog Army asks that you, too, on your Holiday List, in some way remember those without during this celebration of plenty and unity...those without food, human and furred...those without homes....those without health or resources...those without friends...those without peace...those without love and hope. Help make the world a little more wonderful with a gift to a shelter, a donation to a food bank, a few coins in a collection tin, half an hour at a rescue petting the residents, a smile, a word of encouragement...this is the season of spreading the joy, reach out.

About the "Other" Holiday: The White Dog Army wants our community to be thinking of where each of you might spread a bit of Christmas magic. Siku Marie, The White Dog's seventh birthday is in one week, Dec. 22nd. To celebrate, her brothers and sisters will randomly draw seven lucky winners from the comments left on her day. Each winner have the opportunity to choose a charity recipient of a special prize...and White Dog will have the thrill of her favorite kind of bash, a Pay It Forward Party.

December 13, 2011

2011-12-13T18:46:00.003-07:00

White Dog said, "Don't try this when you are home alone, momma!" It is Steve's ultra late night and I thought it might be a good time to get a jump on wrapping gifts. I lugged out the box of Christmas papers and ribbons, and tags. In just the time it took me to leave that box to get scissors and clear tape, Yo had already pulled a tube of paper out and was chewing on the end while Nuka paced back and forth across the unrolling paper (crinkling it and leaving nail tears). I hadn't even gotten the gifts to be wrapped out yet!

White Dog smirked. I sat down to develop a strategy. Every scenario ended with..."and Steve keeps the White Dog Army occupied as he puts tags and ribbons on the wrapped packages." White Dog was right, this was a Family project. I dragged the box back into the closet.

"What's next?" asked my floofy smarty pants. "Want to make cookies?" I shot her a glare as Quinn and YoYoMa headed for the kitchen chanting, "Cookies! Cookies! Let's make cookies!" Puff sat down beside me and shyly voiced her opinion that cookie making was an even worse idea than present wrapping.

For the second day in a row it is grey and rainy (unusual New Mexico weather) AND this was going to be a long night. Already the WDA was getting bored and restless. Nobody liked my idea of practicing basic training skills...even for treats. We needed some kind of diversion.

"How about this," I proposed. "If you help me put together the spice blend gifts we are making by keeping watch over the bags and tags and such, I will use some of the Italian seasoning when we are done to make bagel cheese pizzas for each of you afterward." There was mumbling as they WDA discussed their options...DOUBLE cheese?... and finally they agreed.

We have been drying herbs from the garden since summer with the plan to combine them into a very special Italian meets the Southwest Seasoning Blend to give as gifts. So with the help of the WDA I crushed herbs and mixed with spices and stirred to blend. Then White Dog handed me the bags to make individual packets and Quinn pushed over a label that I had made earlier. Nuka kept count as I placed each packet into a basket and YoYoMa provided quality control by giving each pack a deep sniff. Puff laid in the kitchen doorway as a reminder of the pizza promise. Everyone, for a time, was engaged and didn't watch the clock.

After, I sliced open bagels and mixed a few teaspoons of our blend as well as a bit of Parmesan into ricotta cheese. This I spread on the bagel halves and topped each with a slice of mozzarella. To Yo's I added a slice of tomato. The entire WDA sat in front of the oven while their snack baked and then they paced until the pizzas were cool enough to be served into their bowls.

Full, and tired from helping, the WDA decided on an early evening nap in preparation for the long wait for Steve.

December 12, 2011

2011-12-12T22:27:00.003-07:00

White Dog, The Other White Dog, Another White Dog, and Still Another White Dog have had experience with the snowballing pace of activity at our house as the Christmas holiday draws closer and closer. Our family is not one to stretch out and leisurely organize the season's approach starting after Halloween; rather the frenzy starts right around the beginning of December as we begin shopping and preparing for our annual Christmas Eve Open House.

We traditionally do not even put up our Christmas tree until the morning of Christmas Eve when we ritually enact the calling of friends. Our tree is entirely decorated by ornaments given to us by friends. Most of them are handmade and in some way represent the giver of the ornament. There are no lights. Our quilted tree top angel has only one wing to remind us that we have to work hard every day to earn those feathers. The White Ones gather around and nose the box as we hold the ornaments one-by-one to the light and remember aloud who it was from.

While it is still a bit early, those boxes have come out of the storage shed and more boxes have arrived from delivery people (gifts that have been ordered). Each is greeted excitedly and sniffed thoroughly when it comes into the house.

All of this is brand new to YoYoMa, Yet Another White Dog, who only joined our family this summer and who is a bit frightened but mostly fascinated by the goings on. At points he gets so excited that he just spins in circles, not knowing where to sniff or poke.

Today Steve and I began gathering together the boxes that will be filled with gifts and mailed to friends all across the country. The living room was a sea of empty boxes into which we were sorting items by destination. The White Dog Army, of course, supervised. They formed a conga line of snoofering and pawing as they moved from box to box as Steve added or moved gifts. Next we will wrap and tag the gifts in each box before we seal it with love, sprinkle it with Christmas magic and send it to the Post Office to be whisked to its new home under some distant tree.

But for now, it is duck jerky time and everyone is ready for a nap and we all want to take advantage of this cold dark rainy day to fit in a bit of blustery weather cuddling.

December 11, 2011

2011-12-11T21:28:00.007-07:00

White Dog read the email over my shoulder. "This is a reason to Celebrate!" she said as she summoned the rest of the White Dog Army and Steve in to share the news.

All of the 2MillionDog Puppy Up Walks to End Cancer have been completed for 2011. This year approximately 2,000 people and 1,700 dogs participated in 27 Puppy Up! Walks across the country to raise awareness of Canine Cancer and Comparative Oncology. This will allow the organization to grant research funding on a new project this year for the first time! We are so incredibly grateful to all our friends in the blogging community for your support that helped make this possible. It is our commitment in the White Dog Army to continue to work tirelessly for the day when cancer.touches.no one.

While this may seem like a small victory, 2MillionDogs in 2010 held only seven Walks and attracted only a few hundred participants. This year's accomplishment puts the c monster on notice that too many have been taken too soon and that we will allow it to terrorize us no longer. So we have reason to cheer...and be hopeful. Next year maybe 108 cities and then 432 and then...

So join us, White Dog invites, in a reason to celebrate. Go for an extra Walk. Have a healthy treat. Howl out your excitement. The White Dog Army?

We plan to head for the Park and rewalk the route in a victory lap...and then maybe leave scone crumbs on the seats in Pumpkin.

December 10, 2011

2011-12-11T10:35:00.004-07:00

White Dog stretched out on the bed; Puff and Nuka followed me back and forth as I gathered things from the closet. In the other room, the boys, Quinn and YoYoMa, were helping Steve. We were getting ready to attend the College Faculty Christmas Party and the White Dog Army was supervising.

"I love those dress slacks," White Dog said as I laid my black pants next to her. She rolled so that she could lay right on top of them. "Thanks Sweetheart! Steve do we have a lint brush in the car?"

"OOOOOhhhh, this sweater is so soft," Nuka purred rubbing against my once pure black cashmere. I looked down and Puff was nestled comfortably in by black and red shawl, watching me as I placed my brooch and adjusted my collar.

In the other room, Quinn stood in front of the full-length mirror with Steve as together they tied his tie. Steve's dark green slacks glistened with bits of snow, oops I mean fur. YoYoMa was busy sniffing all of the pockets of his loden green corduroy jacket, leaving snooter goo and face fur tracks as he explored.

Finally we were fully dressed and ready to go. The White Dog Army escorted us to the door. "White Dog, you are in charge, everyone behave. We love you!" As we shut the door they woo'd "Have fun, hurry home soon, and remember we are waiting!"

Seated at our table I looked down. There, clinging tenaciously even after a thorough de-hairing out in the parking lot, were stray white hairs on my pants leg.

I smiled and sent a thought home..."Missing you White Ones!" Then I turned to the woman next to me, "Did I mention that we have dogs, too?"

December 9, 2011

2011-12-09T22:40:00.001-07:00

White Dog sighed, "Do you hear that?" "No, what," replied Steve as she cuddled closer to him. "It is the sound of contentment, peace of mind, and normalness. Today is just like it is supposed to be!" "It has been a bit rough lately," Steve agreed. "This does feel very nice."

Today the White Dog Army celebrated of Friday-which-is-like-Saturday-for-Everyone-Else with a trip to the Park. True to her word, Nuka was feeling back to her normal self. After, we had a car picnic of chicken strips at Sonic.

When we got home, the White Dog Army had to each sniff the pile of mail lying beneath our mail slot (delivered while we were out and about). Each stopped at the same brown envelope and excitedly demanded we open it RIGHT away.

Inside was a delicious surprise from our friend, Casper D Dog! He posted on his blog earlier in the week about his cookie baking experience and the end results LOOKED very yummy! Our thoughtful friend sent us a HUGE bag of his special treats and we can now say without doubt that they TASTE even better than they looked!We are so grateful for this holiday gift, although at the rate we are demanding them, there might not be any left for under the tree. Thanks so much, Casper! You and your mommy ought to consider a cooking show on TV or maybe opening your own canine bakery! You are awesome friends.

December 8, 2011

2011-12-08T22:44:00.003-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army are Thursday Thankful that today was a "normal" workday for Steve. They are further grateful that they survived this week of wild weather and schedule changes without any permanent damage to their psyches.

Tomorrow is part one of our weekend and there is a plan to go to the Park and for a car ride. The WDA is anticipating that things are once more getting back on track. Besides, as Puff put it, "now, it is only 11 weeks left to the quarter!"

Nuka came to us right before dinner and said, "I don't feel good!" Then she upchucked. We are pretty sure it is just a rumbly tummy but our little girl looks so pathetic. She wasn't even interested in duck jerky (much less dinner). She has already indicated that there is NO way that she is missing out on the Friday fun.

Tonight it is early to walk and then to bed...and wishes for sweet dreams to all.

December 7, 2011

2011-12-07T19:20:00.002-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army
Wonderful World Wednesday
White Dog and Quinn have been enjoying a continuing discussion with Dragon’s dad, Gregg, about the ability of pups to experience emotions. He was surprised to discover recent scientific studies have concluded that dogs experience grief, considered a “higher order” thinking skill. They have talked about studies of dogs in groups exhibiting a sense of fairness. Everyone knows Dogs love unconditionally and express joy that can be clearly read for the emotional release that it is.

Over and over in the media we have learned of canines who, for no practical or instinctual or trained reason (and often at great danger to themselves), take action that is heroic and voluntary. It can only be motivated by compassion, to us the most highly developed of emotions.

We share this story and encourage your thoughts on this incredible Yellow Lab with a beautiful heart and no real reason to do what he did. To us, it is evidence that we all, not just humans who might learn a thing or two from us, have a part to play in making the World a wonderful place.

Dog Rescues Kittens Left For Dead On Busy Roadside

http://www.carbonated.tv/wow/dog-rescues-kittens-left-for-dead-on-busy-roadside-video

When animals make the news in this type of story, often times it’s not for the reason you had hoped. You’ve heard it before, the tales of dogs and cats being killed by their ruthless owners.

Thankfully for us, this is not that type of story.

This is a heroic story of a yellow lab named Reagan who discovered a batch of kittens left to die on an Iowa roadside, and did everything in his power to save them.

A litter of four or five kittens had been sealed into a bag of Meow Mix and left on a roadside in rural Iowa to be run over by highway traffic.

The courageous dog Reagan dragged the bag all the way home, whining until his owner opened it. The dog’s owner found two kittens barely clinging to life, while the rest of the litter hadn’t survived.

The Raccoon Valley Animal Sanctuary was called, prompting a quick response to try and save the two kittens that had been badly injured after being run over.
“They had been run over by a vehicle. It was not a pretty sight,” Linda Blakely of the animal shelter told WHOTV.com.

Good news for Reagan, though, as the animal shelter literally nursed the two kittens – Skipper and Tipper – back to health. The two little guys were bottle-fed every two hours until they got back to full health.

Looking at Skipper and Tipper today, you can’t even tell that they had been involved with such an ordeal. See what they look like in the video below, which also shows the heroic dog Reagan who saved them.

December 6, 2011

2011-12-06T22:33:00.003-07:00

White Dog sat next to Steve. "It didn't go so well," she reported in answer to his question about how the day had gone. This was the first night of his new schedule and he did not return home until nearly 11pm because of the class he teaches.

A new routine is hard and things were not helped by the crazy past few days of strange weather. Today was still only in the twenties, temperature-wise, but the sun was out and Mother Nature blessed us with no complications. The White Dog Army, however, was filled with pent-up energy and nervous tension even before Steve left at lunchtime.

The edginess showed itself across the day. There was more bumping and rudeness than normal. More need for timeouts. More petting and calming and reassuring.The dam finally burst in the early evening, around Steve's normal time to return home...but clearly not tonight's...

The rest of the house was dark as we exited my office space. Michael had failed to turn on any lights as he usually does. The White Dog Army crowded around me, underfoot as I tried to walk to the light switch. I tripped over one of them and fell clunking my head on the window sill. This caused a WDA uproar and much jockeying to make sure I was all right (I was).

I felt a lump forming as I continued what I had come out to do...namely, feeding the White Ones their dinner. No one would cooperate by eating his or her own dinner so I sat in the kitchen with them to supervise. Nuka was insistent that she was going to have Puff's dinner (SAWD waited in the living room for her sister to let her in). After several warnings I went over to move Nuka away from the bowl. She whirled and sank her teeth into my forearm, breaking the skin. The others stopped and stared in shock; Nuka, realizing what had just happened ran from the room.

Quinn and YoYoMa, both finished with their meal, began eyeing White Dog's untouched bowl (she is a nibbler and eats her meal at her pace from an end table next to her "watching" chair). Things got a little food territorial and the boys started a squabble which White Dog had to jump down and quash by reminding them BOTH that it was HER meal.

There was still a couple of hours left until the magic hour when Steve would return. I gathered the WDA and waited for everyone to sit. "We are all feeling out of phase right now which makes it hard to be patiently understanding. But I will not allow you to be mean to each other and to forget that you are the White Dog Army. You have a standard to live up to. I expect it. If any of you feels you can't pull it together then I will put you on a leash and tie you to me. If any of you feels that this is unfair, then register a complaint with dad when he gets home. Until then I want everyone to find a spot, get comfortable and work on changing your attitude. UNDERSTAND? Good. I love you. go."

By luck of the draw Steve's two late nights are back-to-back. I am trying hard not to anticipate a rerun tomorrow.

December 5, 2011

2011-12-05T21:13:00.002-07:00

White Dog, actually all of us, started to full wakefulness when the phone rang at 5am! "What, the..." Steve said, snaking an arm out of the warm blankets to grab the phone on the headboard. It was the automated calling system letting us know that Michael's school was on two-hour delay because of the frigid weather. This was HOURS before Michael had to leave for school but we made a mental note to be sure and let him know and tried to get back to sleep.

There was only a dusting of snow in our neighborhood, when Steve and Quinn and Nuka got up to tell Michael the news that he could sleep in a little longer. But the temperature was only 11 degrees F. Michael was glad for the opportunity to scurry back to his warm bed; the White Ones made quick time of their "necessary" breaks and also returned to huddle in warm spots.

This was the start of the new quarter for Steve but his school too had a two-hour delayed start. The White Dog Army excitedly thought that meant a trip to the Park but were outvoted due to the cold. Just as they started to whine about their fate being tied to the cursed weather, Michael got the whooping happy news (for him) that schools across the city had been cancelled for the day due to the record-setting cold. Steve set out for school late morning only to be sent home right after lunch when the college cancelled classes and shutdown for the rest of the day. The City was having trouble with the cold and snow creating icy conditions on the roads; the utilities were asking for voluntary closures because of fears of over demand for heating.

When Steve walked in the WDA, of course, went wild yipping suggestions and plans for how to spend the day. Steve invited them to go with him out to the car to bring in some groceries he had picked up. WD, Puff, Nuka, YoYoMa and Quinn all pushed their way out...and quickly danced back inside where they waited on the dry carpet where it was warm. The outside activity discussion was tabled for another day.

They all settled in positions of dejected napping and sighed. "The weather is RUINING our lives," Nuka moaned. "Winds, Fog, Snow and now North Pole Temperatures," White Dog listed out, "all we are missing are sand storms and bowling ball sized hail!"

Her words were met with 4 pairs of Eskie eyes turning to her in horror as Quinn said, "Careful what you entice to visit us! Let's just focus on bright blue skies and our normal 40 degree F days." "Amen," murmured the others.

December 4, 2011

2011-12-04T22:13:00.005-07:00

White Dog came bursting into the office after her pre-bedtime walk, eyes wide and out of breath. YoYoMa followed slightly less dramatically but still looking like something was wrong.

I heard Steve shut the front door and called out. He too, appeared and was shaking his head. "WHAT!" I said looking at the three of them. "It's like the Werewolves of London," White Dog panted. "Worse than pea soup," Yo agreed, adding, "ummmm now THAT sounds tasty!" "We want soup and to meet the wolves," Nuka and Puff clamored! "No you don't!" White Dog cautioned. "YES we do," they countered. "How come...." "Everyone! Please! Will someone tell me what this is all about?" I begged. Quinn, next to me, looked expectantly at Steve.

"We have lived here, what? 15 years? We NEVER have had fog...and fog like this," he said showing me the photo. "We live in the desert; this doesn't happen. But go look.
"I could barely see WD at the end of her leash."

"It WAS scary, momma" WD said, "I was trying to watch Yo and he kept disappearing!"

I went to the front porch, followed by the White Dog Army and Steve. They were right; it was thickly foggy and it was hard to see past the end of the driveway. The street lamps were eerily distorted and the normally busy Route 66 (Central Avenue) was nearly silent. And it was COLD!

No one argued when I said, "Let's go inside and lock the door and have our bedtime treats. We can all cuddle together. No werewolves allowed"

December 3, 2011

2011-12-03T23:15:00.006-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army awoke to a Saturday morning surprise:

And later suffered Saturday afternoon disappointment:

December 2, 2011

2011-12-02T23:09:00.005-07:00

White Dog and the others braved last night's winds for their bedtime walk and Steve triumphantly returned to say everyone had done what was needed. So we locked down the dog door to keep it from flapping and to preserve the house heat a bit. Then we climbed into bed.

Within five minutes Puff was standing at the door scratching and begging to go out. Steve reluctantly put on his robe and carried her out to the yard through the back door to hurry her along. She came back in; the very chilly Steve climbed back into bed and we turned off the lights.

"Thunk!" "Thunk!Thunk!!" I sat up to see Nuka trying to batter her way out of the locked door. She looked VERY puzzled but by the time I had pulled on warm clothes to take HER out, she was already curled up in her bed fast asleep.

YoYoMa, who sleeps right by the dog door, was the only one happy with our decision to lock it down for the noise and flapping especially in the dark makes our blind boy very nervous. He curled up in his spot, looked up gratefully, and then went to sleep. After a bit of nervous pacing Quinn and Puff settled down and WD hopped up on the bed. Finally, all were able to rest.

Right before dawn White Dog politely woke me to tell me of her need. The wind had calmed so I removed the lock plate and we left it open. When she came back moments later, she was cold to touch even though the blankets. We wondered in half wakefulness whether it had snowed.

It hadn't, but the pressure was low and the sky very grey. There was a sense of impending-ness that made the White Dog Army, and humans, listless.

Mid-afternoon the snow hit...all 148 flakes. Then it was gone and the sky opened up to blue. It is still very cold, but the end result is very anti-climatic considering the past 48 hours.

Always an optimist, Puff pointed out that since weather disaster was averted, maybe tomorrow could be Park day since Steve has Friday, Saturday (the end of the quarter) and Sunday off this weekend! "Woohoo!" The White Ones howled finally showing some enthusiasm. We hope you have a wonderful weekend as well.

This photo is in solidarity for Mr. Pip's Occupy the Couch Campaign. Hold firm, buddy!

December 1, 2011

2011-12-01T18:05:00.002-07:00

White Dog cocked her head toward the wildly flapping dog door and asked, "Is there a folk saying like there is for March?" Distracted, I looked puzzled. "You know, March comes in like a lion goes out like a lamb."

She was referring to the howling canyon winds that roared across the Albuquerque valley all day knocking down power lines and ripping off roofs. After a brief cold snap in October we had been lulled into thinking this was going to be a mild winter season...if today is an indicator, we were REALLY wrong!

The nonstop angry sounds and knock you off your feet gusts have made the White Dog Army nervous. They have paced, restlessly, and slept huddled like newborns against me. Their edginess has made them needy and jumpy...quick to sound a barking alarm and slow to settle down. The WDA wants to all be together, feeling my touch but not touching each other. Tempers have been short as the day has brought no break from the windstorms.

It is said a huge storm which already has blanketed our friends in Colorado with white is pushing its way toward us. That is easy to believe as we have watched the temperatures drop all day long.

Michael's plans to go to the neighborhood merchants outdoor "Christmas Stroll" have been cancelled; he doesn't want to "freeze to death." Besides we suspect the planned jugglers and street carolers will be blown away or will quickly move indoors. The luminaria were never even set up ...a shame as it is a lovely sight to see our little bit of Route 66 lined along the boulevard in twinkling candlelight. The White Ones nervously watch the front door for Steve's return. In the back of my mind, I worry about Quinn for I remember reading that often severe changes in weather can trigger seizures...silently I ask the wind to be sympathetic of my boy and hope my extra hugs form a shield to protect him.

Cold is not a problem; Eskies are Nordic dogs and fear not the frigid fingers of winter (except poor Puff whose coat has begun to thin with age). And snow is a welcomed diversion (at least as long as it temporarily visits us in the desert). But the noises and the winds...enough to drive a pup to even eschew duck jerky bribes.

"White One," I finally responded to her initial question, "I don't know that there is one. Based on today maybe we should come up with an appropriate saying."

"I have been thinking about that," White Dog responded, "How about...December comes in furiously screaming curses and calmly leaves singing of new hope and peace?"

November 30, 2011

2011-11-30T16:39:00.001-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army
Wonderful World Wednesday

White Dog and the White Dog Army know it is the little gestures that have a big impact. It has long been our policy to pick up garbage we find along the hiking paths and to clean up after less considerate users of the Parks we frequent. White Dog gets angry when we are driving and we see refuse tossed out of a car window (or worse yet, lit cigarettes). It is distressing to see discarded fast food wrappers and bags left crumpled in the street.

To the WDA such actions show a lack of respect for the Earth, our community, and those who are share our environment. We loudly applaud and cheer when we pass other folks with the same commitment to making the world more wonderful by keeping it cleaner and healthy. Our hearts sing when a child stops to pick up litter on the street and deposit it in the bin. The guy at the bus stop who everyday gathers up bits while waiting for the bus gets our nod, too. We all feel better when we walk through our urban neighborhood and all is tidy...and we feel more connected.

Here's a story of two young men who have the same simple idea but are going to extraordinary lengths to make the world a little cleaner, brighter, and more respected...

Two Youths Cross Country to Combat Trash
By Shannon Urtnowski, NBC News associate producer 16 Nov 2011

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Through their non-profit organization Pick Up America, Jeff Chen and Davey Rogner have been traveling across the country picking up litter and spreading a message of zero waste.

Since March 2010, Chen and Rogner have walked almost 2,000 miles and gathered more than 140,000 pounds of trash along the way. But the two don't work alone. They have recruited various volunteers along the way, some for just a day and others for months at a time.

Chen and Rogner say they want Pick Up America to instill lasting change in behavior and mentality among the individuals they touch. "I'm hoping that we can create this kind of respect for the earth," Chen said. "And I think it's very much up to us youth to do that."

Pick Up America has completed half its journey to date. The team, currently just outside Denver, started the pickup in Maryland and has San Francisco in its sights. The journey is supposed to end there in one year. But Chen and Rogner hope the message will last a lifetime.

The White Dog Army thinks everyone can have a hand in this project to make the world a little more wonderful. Next time you are out and about, please think of Jeff and Davey and put a bit of litter in its place in their honor.

November 29, 2011

2011-11-29T22:45:00.003-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army were getting impatient. It was already past 8pm and Steve was still not home. He told us he would be late due to a faculty meeting but the White Ones were missing him. were hungry, and were getting crabby. Steve must have felt the vibe for he came in half an hour later with vanilla ice cream for dessert.

He was carried off on the shoulders of the WDA to give proper greetings and to change clothes; I put supper together. Then we all sat to enjoy a meal together and share news of the day.

White Dog stopped eating and looked up alarmed when Steve announced that he was slated to teach TWO evening courses next quarter, meaning he would not be home until nearly eleven on those nights. Her surprise prompted a chain reaction of panic which increased as the scheduling news continued...Friday would still be our Saturday as he has a class on Saturday afternoons. Low throaty growls of protest welled up from Quinn and YoYoMa; Puff squeezed herself tightly against Steve at the thought that she would NEVER see him once the new quarter started.

"OK," said the wise White Dog, who has lived through years of academic schedule dramas, "so what's the good news?"

The good news is that Steve only has office hours from 9am until 1pm on Mondays; he doesn't go in until 2:30 on his late nights (Tuesday and Wednesday); Thursdays are noon until 7pm; Fridays are off. In actuality he will be able to spend more daytime hours...read that as Park time and breakfast picnics and car rides...with the WDA than the "average" dad can.

It will take some getting used to but a quarter is only 12 weeks, and for that we can adapt to anything. The White Dogs WILL have to accept the fact that momma will make dinner on two nights (not allowed currently, they won't eat unless Steve is home), and on the very late nights they may have to trade bedtime walks for breakfast trips to the Park.

"Not so bad," Nuka concedes. "And part of the life of being the family of an academic."

November 28, 2011

2011-11-28T21:32:00.003-07:00

White Dog and I sat together talking about life and the strange twists it sometimes takes. I shared that although some part of me still holds my breath that Quinn will have another seizure, I have found comfort in others' stories and in the knowledge I have gained about seizures and canine epilepsy. Knowing that there are effective treatments that would allow Quinn to continue a normal life takes away the fear.

"There have been some wonderful positive reactions within the White Dog Army as a result of our scare," White Dog observed. "Nuka, for example."

Nuka, Another White Dog, has adapted well to life within our family but she is not a mixer preferring to stay on the sidelines during group cuddles and being unsure how to express herself to the other WDA members. If you insist, she joins in...but rarely does she ask for inclusion.

Quinn to a certain extent is the same way but has opened up a lot over the past months. He asks for attention and uncertainly joins the group (always with an eye on the exit route) but he still sleeps apart from the rest...except for Nuka.

And that is the heartwarming, smile making side effect of Quinn's seizure. Nuka has assigned herself Quinn's guardian "Angel." She escorts him out of the dog door when YoYoMa is sleeping nearby (which still makes Quinn nervous in going in and out); she goes out to check on TOWD if he is gone too long; she sleeps nearby so she can see him. When the others get silly or are crowding too closely, she becomes Quinn's bodyguard plowing a path through the White so that the claustrophobic Quinn can get through. She is not above standing her ground and yipping in some body's face if she feels TOWD is not being given enough respect.

In return there are nose touches and standing shoulder-to-shoulder moments between the two that just melt the heart. If the ugly seizure monster should strike The Mighty Quinn again, I know with confidence that Nuka Angel will be there, sounding the alarm, keeping her brother from harm.

November 27, 2011

2011-11-27T23:37:00.008-07:00

White Dog and the rest of the White Dog Army realized that this was the last day of the extended Thanksgiving holiday weekend and that Steve would be returning to his regular schedule tomorrow. Additionally, we experienced our first below freezing temperatures here in the city last night which prompted a gigantic "Fall" Day when all of the remaining leaves dropped from the trees en mass. So we had no choice but to all hop in the van (in the afternoon, once the sun had warmed things up enough for the momma's thin skin) and head to the Park where we could enjoy plowing through the leaves, prancing to make them crackle, and sniffing the rich earthy mustiness.

Congratulations to those who correctly guessed that the Top 5 Pizza Consumption Days were: The Saturday after Thanksgiving, Super Bowl Sunday, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day, and Halloween (that one surprised us)! We have some pups and kitties in our community who really know their pizza lore...and the rescues they choose will be grateful for their knowledge.

November 26, 2011

2011-11-26T22:28:00.003-07:00

White Dog knows that by now everyone is tired of turkey leftovers (YoYoMa interjects: tired of turkey? Is that even possible?)...has had enough marketing of Christmas specials...and is a little bored of grown men throwing pigs around (oh, sorry, Nuka tells me that is a pigSKIN being tossed).

So put the thinking caps on, shake off the tryptophane stupor, and help put a good spin on the season of giving. The comment that can correctly answer the White Dog Army Post Thanksgiving Weekend Challenge wins a donation to the rescue of their choice.

Ready?

The Saturday following Thanksgiving is one of the five highest days of pizza consumption throughout the year. What are the other four?

Da-da-da-da-da-dada.....

P.S. The WDA did NOT get pizza...Steve and Michael made a healthy zucchini casserole instead (at least there was cheese)!

November 25, 2011

2011-11-25T23:10:00.004-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army celebrate Black Friday:

November 24, 2011

2011-11-25T22:40:00.006-07:00

White Dog and the White Dog Army shared the blueberry pancakes and pork sausage that Steve cooked up for our Thanksgiving breakfast. "Eat hearty, White Dogs," Steve said slipping another pancake on Yo's empty plate. "We are going to the Bosque del Apache today and it will be a long time until lunch!"

The Bosque del Apache is a huge bird and wildlife refuge about 100 miles south of our home. It is the winter over for thousands of snow geese and sand hill cranes. The refuge provides sanctuary to many of the world's remaining whooping cranes and bald eagles. It is an engineering marvel in that the Rio Grande has been diverted to create marshlands and farm areas and scrub forest habit for these species and others. There are miles of walking trails, observation decks, blinds...and wildlife photographers come from all over the world this time of year to capture the scene.

So this is how we spent our Thanksgiving Day:

Apologies for a lack of a telephoto lens but each of those lumps stretching across the screen about 2/3 way up is a sandhill crane. At this point the White Dog Army realized that if they all focused on a single bird together that they could, as a pack, perhaps actually score some jerky on the claw...it was awesome to see the idea dawn and spread as the pack began repositioning itself and communicating differently. When they all started the ears back crouch, we wisely decided to head back to the car to seek a different area...the fines for hunting are fierce.

We visited the snow geese and then walked back to Pumpkin for a more refined picnic meal of turkey sandwiches, veggies straws, cheese, duck jerky (Of course!)and pumpkin pie. Sated and tired, the WDA napped as Steve (who SO wanted to join them) navigated us home.

We hope your Thanksgiving provided opportunities for a walk in the sunshine, a reason to smile, a bird of your own, loved ones to share the day with...and lots of reasons to be thankful.

November 23, 2011

2011-11-23T19:07:00.005-07:00

White Dog and The White Dog Army
Wonderful World Wednesday

White Dog, my philosopher, finds it amusing that humans cannot just express love or thanks or generosity without choosing and naming a special day to warrant the action. Why, for example, she asks do humans need a Valentine’s Day to tell those they care about that they love them? Dogs and cats and the rest of the animal world just act without being prompted by proclamations.

Quinn, my more practical boy, nuzzles her and counters that it is better to have ONE day when people are motivated to kindness and gratitude even if it is by calendar mandate, than no days.

On that note, the White Dog Army agrees that the idea of a special day to give Thanks is part of what makes a wonderful world. Thanksgiving is a gesture celebrated all over the world. It celebrates communal harmony. Though it is said to have been originated in America, a number of other countries celebrate harvest related festivals. They are observed with different names and in different seasons but all are characterized with lot of fun and merrymaking…and sharing.

Each region has its unique customs and traditions to jubilate the occasion. Canada celebrates thanksgiving on the second Monday in the month of October. India also has a number of harvest related festivals in different regions. Popular regional festivals are Pongal, Baisakhi, Lohri, Onam etc. Though the underlying principle behind each of them is same, every festival is exclusive and different from the other. Asian countries such as China, Malaysia, and Korea celebrate the festival on different dates. Each festival has a folklore attached to it. Harmony, peace, feeling gratitude is the underlying theme of the celebration all over. Humans seem to have a need to ritualize thankfulness.

In November 1997, as a communal effort to reunite people all over the world, the millennium year 2000 was proclaimed as the 'International year of Thanksgiving' by the United Nations. This was first time ever that the general assembly voted unanimously in favor of a spiritual idea. The idea behind the declaration was to spread peace, harmony and brotherhood. Since that year, the idea of creating an annual global day of Thanksgiving has become an international movement.

Tomorrow, Thanksgiving Day here in the United States, The White Ones hope that the importance of the day will not be forgotten amidst the feasting, football, shopping, and indulgence. Even with the calendar to remind us, humans sometimes are sidetracked. We ask that each of you help to make the world a little more wonderful, a little more grateful, and a little more compassionate by focusing on the reason behind it all.

As you gather and make merry, take a moment to hold paws and hands… send thanks to the Universe for the goodness and bounty in your life (no matter how difficult life seems there IS goodness and bounty)… ask for blessings to be showered on those without shelter or food or friends or hope…

And know that all of us: Siku Marie, The Mighty Quinn, Nuka Angel, Puff the Magical, YoYoMa, Michael, Steve and I are thanking the Universe that each of you shares and enriches our lives. It IS a wonderful world!

May your Thanksgiving be filled with joy and love.

November 22, 2011

2011-11-22T22:06:00.002-07:00

White Dog said, "I KNEW Dr. Julia wouldn't let us down." Even though she was still under the weather, she called to say that we should bring Quinn in to discuss his seizures...and that Puff should come along so her congestion could be monitored as well.

Steve dashed home from the office and we loaded The Other White Dog and Still Another White Dog into Pumpkin. The rest of the WDA wanted to ride along for support but were convinced (mostly by the duck jerky bribe) to send their best wishes from the comfort of home.

As we drove I shared with Steve my concern that TOWD's deep uninterruptable sleep until nearly noon today was somehow connected to the seizure story. I was nervous for what we would hear but full of questions.

At the vet's office, Dr. Julia looked at Puff first and smiled. "She is sounding a lot less congested than last week," Dr. Julia said. We told her what a difficult time we had getting SAWD to take the antibiotic capsule in the mornings. Evenings were no problem since she ate them in her dinner; but Puff is not a morning eater. Kibble is always available but she never eats until afternoon and the pill is needed in the am. Nothing entices her and she quickly catches on to all of the tricks. Dr. Julia felt that the stress caused by forcing Puff to take the pill countered the effect of stopping her cough so she gave her an injection and told us to stop the capsule. Puff must go back next week. Our littlest one gratefully hopped off the exam table and hid behind Steve's legs.

Now it was Quinn's turn. Dr. Julia asked us to talk about the seizures Quinn had experienced over the weekend. She asked lots of questions about his behavior and environment both before and since the manic sessions. She had read the ER reports, viewed the Xrays, talked with the ER Vet, spoke with a colleague. Then she put Quinn up on the table for a thorough exam. She discounted my nervousness about his sleeping this morning and asked if maybe Quinn might be getting a little hard of hearing. "It was cold and if he was comfortable, slight deafness could have blocked out the household noises and just encouraged him to sleep in."

After, she stood stroking TOWD and shared her thoughts and ideas. She said that seizures, epilepsy, and brain tumors were all about repeat episodes; that she felt a single isolated case of one night (even though Quinn had two bouts) was not enough evidence for us to put our boy on medication. If however, he had another seizure, or started having them at some frequency like once a month or week then we needed to look at the drugs which can do a fine job of controlling them (the drugs prevent seizures, they do not cure them).

She said the next time, if there is a next time, we should grab the cell phone and make a video of his actions. We thought this was a brilliant idea as it would clearly illustrate the situation much better than words could. (ASIDE: this is a great idea for any health issue that happens outside the vet's office...limping...bad behaviors...harmful licking).

Dr. Julia also thought it was too soon to bring in a neurologist...again there is just not enough seizure history to jump to this. An MRI would be stressful to Quinn; this may be necessary to subject him to in the future but for now we have decided to take a cautious wait and watch approach...at least through the new year.

As Steve and I have talked over the past few days we have come to some conclusions and lots of questions...that we did not want to medicate without reason...that the quality of life was more important than the quantity...wondering whether one Event was enough to base a diagnosis on...whether waiting and seeing was sound judgement or avoidance...what does Quinn expect from we who have promised him safety...It would be a gigantic help if The Mighty Quinn could weigh in on the issues.

For now, somewhat reassured, we wait and hope...for nothingness.

November 21, 2011

2011-11-21T22:00:00.002-07:00

White Dog and the rest of the WDA rushed to my side when the phone rang bright and early this morning. They knew that it was Dr. Julia's office calling about Quinn...and they were right. Cindy, Dr. Julia's Number One, had the ER reports and test results and had already spoken with her boss. HOWEVER, Dr. Julia was home with a fever and was most likely not going to be in. Cindy was driving the ER information plus Quinn's file over to the vet's house so she could at least read through everything and call Dr. Russman, the ER Vet. She would attempt to come in the late afternoon and if so, the Clinic would call and have us bring The Other White Dog over...if not "come hell or high water" Dr. Julia would see Quinn on Tuesday.

"AAAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGGGHHHHH!!!!!!!" I yelled, hanging up the phone. The uncertainty and the waiting has been torture. Fortunately, Quinn has had no further seizures but everyone in the house jumps at his slightest movement...the poor Mighty Boy must be tired of being stared at as though he was a specimen and sniffed to make sure he was not in jeapordy health-wise.

The Army has developed its own system of taking care of TOWD. This morning Quinn wanted to go outside but the sleeping YoYoMa was still too close to the door. Quinn came halfway into the room and froze. Steve was in the shower and I was in the middle of giving Puff a therapeutic massage for her lungs. Nuka sailed up next to Quinn, briefly touched him on the nose and then walked along his side forming a barrier between him and the other boy. Then she followed him outside to wait for his return.

Every time Quinn has gone outside today, White Dog has casually found a reason to hop on the bed where she could lie and watch the entire yard through the patio doors. While Quinn napped, Puff napped too, but in a position where she blocked his access and he had to awaken her in order to move about...everyone was alerted. YoYoMa has given his brother wide berth as a conscious effort to reduce Quinn's stress level.

I have spent the day as a paranoid nut thinking every time TOWD circled to lie down or repeated his walking path as he went about normal life, that he was starting manic behavior. Someday I will be able to laugh at what an incredible nervous momma I am, but today, it wasn't humorous. Research on the Internet provided a wealth of information and helped me form a list of questions and concerns to discuss tomorrow.

Tuesday's meeting with Dr. Julia will not provide a solution, I know, and will probably raise even more issues, but somehow having HER see Quinn and examine him will make me hopeful...she has guided those of the White Dog Army and their predecessor through myriad of problems.

So for now, we continue the waiting...and breath holding...and believing all will be all right.

November 20, 2011

2011-11-20T17:16:00.003-07:00

White Dog, Puff, Nuka, and YoYoMa were a little afraid and a whole lot confused as they watched Quinn go through what we know now were two seizures on Friday night and in the wee hours of Saturday morning.Steve and I, although calm and reassuring, were right there mentally with the rest of the WDA in our fears.

Like TOWD, the seizures themselves were not violent but definitely indicate that he has a neurological issue that needs much more investigation and then, treatment. After dinner on Friday, Quinn went out into the yard and came back in doing zoomies...only he did not stop...and the frantic-ness increased to the level where our normally calm, steady boy was jumping and crashing into things. Then he started circling around and around and around to the left. This continued well over an hour and half. At this point White Dog was barking for him to stop and Yo was starting to get agitated. Steve gave him a Composure, a natural calming chew we use for when Puff gets overly anxious and cuddled him in his arms. After a bit, TOWD went to his favorite sleep spot and sank into an unusually deep coma-like sleep.

We woke him near midnight for his prebedtime walk and he was fine. After all the walks are completed we prepare and go to bed. Quinn was very restless and Steve thought he needed more potty time. At night TOWD won't use the dog door without a chaperon because YoYoMa sleeps at the foot of our bed a few feet from the entrance; so Steve walked Quinn to and saw him through the door and watched waiting to help facilitate his return.

In the yard, Quinn was like a puppy on mega caffeine, racing around the yard at top speed over and over and over. Several times, we thought he was coming in but he just circled and circled to the left for awhile and then returned to racing in the yard. Finally he crashed through the dog door back into the house and literally fell into the water bowl gulping water as fast as he could lap it into his mouth.

He began manically pacing the length of the hallway, back and forth, pushing the other dogs out of the way and seeming to not have a purpose. He would pace for a long while then gulp water, then trot back and forth more then drink...at some points he actually galloped the length over and over. Steve sat on the floor and Quinn allowed him to hold and soothe him for brief minutes before breaking away and continuing his pacing. He was panting the entire time, but his eyes were normal and he was not drooling...nor was his balance severely impaired (although he did stumble a bit). After more than two hours, he suddenly laid down and once again crashed into a coma. We watched for a while and let him sleep.

At 7am we called the emergency vet (Dr. Julia is not there on weekends although we left a message to be sure she gets it first thing Monday) and let them know we were on our way. Steve woke Quinn who appeared fine save briefly circling (less than 5 minutes) outside before coming in.

Dr. Russman turned out to be a friend of our Dr. Julia so we felt much more confident in placing our Mighty Boy in a stranger's hands. She went out of her way to avoid stressing him...even getting down on the floor to take his vitals and check his reactions. She listened to our recounting and asked questions (many which we could not answer because TOWD has only been part of our lives for such a short time). She took xrays and drew blood for a complete blood workup and did a neurological exam.

The xrays looked good. The radiologist indicated there was disc wear but nothing that would cause pain; his internal organs all looked good; his liver is slightly enlarged but still within normal range. She agreed with our gut feeling that Quinn is probably more like 10-12 years old, rather than 8. His blood workup showed nothing extraordinary, ruling out a host of diseases, toxins, nutritional issues. She felt he is outside the age range to develop epilepsy. The issue is almost certainly a neurological one and we all whispered our fear that it might be a brain tumor.

Before we jump to any conclusions, and Dr. Russman agreed, we want Dr. Julia to see the emergency reports and test. We want her to fully reexamine Quinn...and if we all agree that is warranted, the next step will be to take Quinn to a canine neurologist for an MRI and further diagnosis.

He has had no further episodes...and that is as scary as it is relieving. Dr. Russman (and our research) indicated that he might never have another seizure again...or he might have a series of them starting as I type this line. The uncertainty kept both Steve and I (and as it turns out White Dog) awake long after everyone else had settled into sleep Saturday night...we listened intensely for sounds of unrest or twitching or something new and unexplained. It didn't happen, thankfully, but we were on alert because it could.

When we brought the Mighty Quinn into our lives, we promised him a forever home where he was safe, and cared for, and always protected...and we will keep the promise no matter what for all of his days. Please ask the Universe to grant Dr. Julia extra insight and wisdom as she reviews our boy's case...and for Quinn's path to be one of health, pain-free living, and mental competence. The White Dog Army Thanks You.

November 19, 2011

2011-11-18T22:08:00.008-07:00

White Dog, The Other White Dog, Another White Dog, and Yet Another White Dog have a special message for
Still Another White Dog, Puff The Magical...
HAPPY FIRST GOTCHA DAY!

As most know, Puff is a 14-year-old former puppy mill breeder who had passed her prime and was living outside without shelter year-round in Kansas. Steve and a pilot (who was a friend of a friend of a rescue friend) flew to close down the operation and rescue her. Puff was Stage 3 Heartworm positive; her ear tips were chewed off and scabbed from fly bites; and she was nearly feral in her ability to trust. She was not part of the White Dog Army "plan" but for lots of reasons we could not turn our back on this desperate senior girl with no future and little hope.

Unlike Nuka, who had joined us only a week earlier, Puff was daring and quick to learn. We had to constantly watch to make sure she did not try to escape. She mastered the dog door in about 3 minutes and for a week refused to sleep in the house unless we secured her behind a gate; otherwise she would run to the far corner of the yard where she had made a "nest" out of old leaves. Even in Albuquerque, November is too cold to be sleeping al fresco. She gave nothing...no trust...no indication of her needs...no cheer or complaint. She was stoic and fearful to the point that I nearly despaired. Her eyes looked dead and her tail hung low; she seemed a broken pup.

And then, very very very slowly she started to peek around corners to see what we were doing...she came back in through the dog door instead of making us chase her down and carry her in. She sat next to Steve. It was nearly 3 months before she let me pet her...after weeks of sitting quietly with my back to her and ignoring her (while silently willing her to come close). She asked to join us one Saturday in March when the WDA was going for a car ride and out for maneuvers (she usually ran and hid when leashs were displayed)...it was hard to keep to our normal routine during that trip.

In May, Dr. Julia pronounced the heartworm cured and we celebrated like crazy. Our girl with the haunted eyes has come so far on her journey these past 365 days...and she still has miles to go. But we know now that she is a tough little fighter, but not one hardened beyond being able to give and receive love. For that we thank the Universe. For Puff IS Magical and adds a unique special delicacy to our Army and we love her with a commitment of always.

Happy Gotcha Day, Puff.
Steve made this Smile Box just for his Special Baby Girl...and the White Ones donated their allowance to Pilots N Paws, a group of volunteer pilots who fly rescue and mercy missions for needy pets across the country. We hope that another pup gets to fly to a forever home filled with love and safety.

This slideshow design generated with Smilebox

November 18, 2011

2011-11-18T21:24:00.002-07:00

White Dog and Quinn looked like members of the audience chosen to become contestants. They rushed to the front door, slipped out just a hair's width ahead of Puff and scratched impatiently at the porch door as Steve secured leashes for their car trip. It was SPA DAY!

Meanwhile Puff, Nuka, and YoYoMa crowded around the door throwing "those" faces at Steve in hopes of guilting him into letting them into the Golden Circle. "Puff, you get to go for a ride all by yourself later," I told our littlest girl. "Why don't you go watch from White Dog's window perch and enjoy the freedom a bit?"

When Steve returned it was Another White Dog's turn for some special attention. Again taking advantage of White Dog's absence, Nuka received Chez Steve's complete body massage and brushing...ON the bed! She rolled. She shimmied. She delighted in the luxury and Steve's total focus. AND there were treats at the end while Steve cleaned up the mountain of hair left on the bed covers.

White Dog come in as soft as an angel's breath and smelling as freshly sweet as May. Most times WD feels like an Angora kitten but right after grooming she is as silky as the finest cashmere...you just want to press tightly against her fur. She usually allows me 15 minutes or so to get my "fix," then she becomes impatient and demands her independence. This is the time when I must beg her not to go outside into the yard and roll. Today (with my once again postponed much needed haircut) I looked pathetic enough to convince her to skip the "Ungrooming."

Quinn came back, handsome and bright white, and invigorated to puppiness. He did zoomies in the house and then the yard. He danced with his sisters; he almost played with Yo (Steve stepped in thinking that it might not be a good idea lest Yo get equally carried away and take things too far). Just to be safe, we rewarded our unnaturally enthusiastic boy and gated him in the office while we took Puff for her ride...

...to the Vet. Puff started shaking and refused to get out of the car (both she and WD have this reaction...could it be a Kansas born thing?). She rode in on my lap for her one year wellness exam. She has once again developed the lung congestion that plagued her all last winter and we are thinking it might be a seasonal thing). Because of her previous history of heartworm and her resulting pulmonary damage Dr. Julia is extra cautious. She took an x-ray of the lungs (congested) and did a blood panel (perfectly fine). The bonus was the doctor's orders to "add a little fat" to her very lean diet. Seems our girl has such good eating habits that she needs a little more indulgence in order to keep her skin and coat at their best. Puff was very glad to get back in the car and head toward home.

YoYoMa could wait no longer and burst out of the door the second we opened it. He made it clear by jumping on the blue door that it was HIS turn! Steve handed me Puff, unsnapped her leash, snapped it on YAWD and headed out for the run which our big boy had been anticipating for so long. I know it was a great adventure for Yo walked back inside, threw himself on the floor and rolled in happiness. Then he grabbed yellow duck and gave it to Steve as a "Thanks."

Tomorrow is Puff''s Gotcha Day. Please stop by to wish a Happy #1 to Puff the Magical, Still Another White Dog!