Poppy's Poop Scoop

Graduation Pictures - Finally!

2010-06-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

OK, I took a break from all things blog related for a week. Now we are back in gear and updating both Poppy's and Dagan's blogs this weekend!

Graduation was fabulous! LaVerne, Poppy's new partner, had to leave during graduation, so we met Friday for dinner. John and I were able see Poppy before we took off for dinner (Poppy was not allowed to leave campus without an instructor until after graduation). She was SO excited to see us! Though I had my camera with us, I was so focused on LaVerne and Poppy, I didn't take any pictures Friday night.

I'm not sure what it was, but this was the most relaxed, least chaotic graduation I have experienced! There were only 8 dogs graduating, so there were far fewer people than previous graduations I have participated in. Or maybe it was because we had met previously and I didn't feel like I had to squish 9 months worth of Poppy tales into an hour. Or maybe it was just our general pleasure with Poppy's placement. Whatever the reason, it was great day!

Poppy still loves to give kisses!

And she is as cute as ever!
She looks fabulous in harness! And so grown up!
She enjoyed lots of posing (ok, maybe not enjoyed - but loved being touched and tolerated the posing)

After some time in the dorms, we went out for our formal pictures.
And, then for a walk over to the pond to enjoy the beautiful day and some pictures!
Then, Poppy said she had enough! I love this face, all squinty-eyes and tongue-y.

We are wishing LaVerne and Poppy all the best in the next adventures! Hoping that Pop is settling in well in Colorado and learning all there is to know about life in Arvada!

Graduation - a brief comment

2010-05-29T21:45:00.001-07:00

Graduation was fabulous! Getting a sneak peak before graduation was even more fabulous!

By now, Poppy is in her new home, meeting her new animal friends and getting settled in for the night. So happy that she is in a spot where she can settle and be happy.

Will post pics and more later!

Thoughts of graduation

2010-05-25T21:47:00.000-07:00

With all dogs out of the house (Dagan is on a puppy swap), it is left to me to update blogs. I know there is no way I will actually say what I want to say on stage at graduation. Heck, let's be real - I will be lucky if I remember to hand off the donation for Poppy's harness! I have walked off stage with it still in my hand more than once. So, I thought I would sit and think about all the things that I would want to say about my time with Poppy.

They say that March comes in like a lion - that was certainly true for us in March of 2009 when Poppy came home with us. At 6 months old, she hadn't had a very good start to her puppy raising career. She had issues. She was almost career changed. She was transferred for good reason. She was nothing but a product of her environment. But, habits are quickly set in puppies. I took her on as a challenge to see what I could do with her. And because she was my only option for a transfer at the time we turned in our previous puppy. She quickly grew on me.

Her smarts blew my mind. She is constantly thinking. You can sit back and watch her mind churn and try to figure what she should do, what she is expected to do and what she can get away with either doing or not doing. In 17 puppies, I had never had so much fun watching a dog think. Teaching her "Go To Bed" was a blast. She loved learning to positive methods. She picked it all up so fast! You can look at her and see the moment her brain clicks and "gets it." She is so proud of herself! She knows she is a smarty pants. Love it!

Her cuteness is overwhelming. She is a girl who knows what she wants and will work to get it. She needs cuddle time every day. She will come place her head on your leg or in your lap and just lean in to you, pressing herself against you. There were times that I could feel her want to be a part of me - to press herself into my being. Little did she know that she already lived and thrived in my heart.

Poppy challenged me as a puppy raiser. She challenged me as a leader. There were times that I didn't know how much "molding" I could do with the "lump of clay" I was given. Each time I would question her ability and desire to be a guide, she would step up and prove me wrong.

Each time I raise a puppy and turn them in, I have some inkling that I would love for that dog to come home if they were career changed. But, I also scrambled to have a plan for them in case they were released. Really, our life is easy without a pet dog. The two cats are plenty to deal with pet-wise. But Poppy was different. If she decided not to be a guide, I would have offered her to another service dog program, but in my heart of hearts, I would want her to come home. The bond we created was special.

I love all my puppies, but I simply adore Poppy. I love her personality. I love her perk. I love her spunk. I simply adore that dog. Love that dog! Can't wait for graduation!

The World is Small

2010-05-20T20:23:00.000-07:00

Oh goodness! The world is small when you live near GDB. Went to dinner near campus with a friend who works at GDB. When her eyes about bugged out of her head over the table next to us, it was pretty clear what the reason was. That's right. At the table there were two women seated - one blind, one a former puppy raiser and GDB employee. We were good - didn't say any more than hi to the person we knew. Do you have any idea how hard it is to be back to back with the person who has your former PIT and NOT be able to say anything?!?! To hear her name in conversation?? Yup, about blew a gasket. Head just about exploded. Thankfully, there was beer. Ha! 9 more days until graduation!

Heading to...

2010-05-19T21:50:00.000-07:00

Colorado!! Poppy is heading to Colorado! Arvada, CO to be exact.

Hold on - another twist in the ride!

2010-05-18T20:46:00.000-07:00

Well, Mom got yet another phone call today... Poppy is IN CLASS!! She is in the 2-week class, so graduation is planned for May 29th! Yippy! Back to work on the scrapbook! Can't wait to meet Poppy (FINALLY!) Though kinda bummed that our trip to Alcatraz has been delayed. At least I've only been thinking about going a couple weeks - Mom has been thinking about Alcatraz for at least 20 years but has never gone. Probably because things like graduation push it to the back of her mind!

Wags and Wiggles,
Dagan

Holding strong!

2010-04-23T09:11:00.000-07:00

Just an update - Poppy is still hanging out in phase 8. Hoping to have more exciting news soon! Off to update on the important stuff now!

Wags and Wiggles,
Dagan

Getting closer

2010-04-08T19:30:00.000-07:00

Welp, Ms. Poppy is in phase 8 this week! Yippy Poppy!! Hopefully, we will be meeting soon! Can't wait to meet the dog who left all the yellow hair around the house. I must say, I do look good wearing your left over hair! ;)

Wags and Wiggles,
Dagan

Bouncing Flowers

2010-03-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

So, my Mom keeps seeing all the bright orange poppies around and whining about how they remind her of Poppy. Ugh! But, since this is Poppy's blog, I gotta be nice about it.

Mom is shocked though. She knew Poppy would bounce through the phases. She knew she would skip one here and there. But FOUR?!?! She did not expect that! After 2 weeks in phase 3, Poppy jumped to phase 7! Way to go Poppy!

Wags and Wiggles,
Dagan

Phase Report Day!

2010-03-11T17:07:00.000-08:00

Like I said last week, expect some jumping! Poppy likes to pop around all over the place! Phase 3 this week! Go Poppy go! I'd love to meet you, but I don't want to share Mom's lap with you! Keep on studying and I hope to see you at your graduation!

Officially a "College Girl"

2010-03-05T17:53:00.000-08:00

Poppy update! Poppy is now in phase one! That means she's is officially doing something! Up until now, she was busy being looked at by the breeding department, having tests done and having fun. Now, she is matched with a string of dogs and is starting to learn guide work. Training should last 12 weeks or so and we will see all sorts of different rates that her phases change. Hopefully, we will be seeing her at graduation soon!! Go Poppy! Go!

Wags and Wiggles,
Dagan

Not gonna be a mama!

2010-02-25T18:56:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since we have heard any news on the Pop-a-liscous one! But, we did hear this week that she is no longer being considered for breeding. Mom is kinda bummed, but has high hopes for her as a guide. Pop will be spayed sometime soon (or already has been?!?!) and will join the next string of training dogs - probably in about 3 weeks. Then we will see some progress for that girl! Play time is over girly! Time to get to work!

Wags and Wiggles,
Dagan

Finally Starting!

2010-01-31T21:51:00.000-08:00

OK, I am supposed to tell you that Poppy is officially in training. I'm not too sure how that is any different than the last couple weeks, but Mom says today was 'turn in' day. So, Poppy has moved from "holding pattern" to training. Go Poppy, go! Look for more updates soon!

Wags and Wiggles,
Dagan

OK - a teaser!

2010-01-16T09:34:00.001-08:00

Just a few more pictures of Poppy as she was saying good bye to her buddies. Mom didn't get many good ones of her face, cause she was SO busy taking everything in around her one last time.

She said good bye to our work friends, Lorraine and Randy:

Then got a last snuggle from Elena:

Sharon came in to say good bye too, but she doesn't do pictures! Silly Sharon!

One last cute face shot:

OK, now it will probably be a couple weeks before we have any more news to post! Poppy had her cardio exam on Thursday and is now hanging out in the kennels until the rest of her of classmates at the end of the month.

Wags and Wiggles,
Dagan

Poppy's off at College!

2010-01-14T19:49:00.000-08:00

Hi! I'm Dagan! Poppy asked me to keep up her blog for her. I'm the little brother/nephew she mentioned. Sadly, she left the day I came, so I didn't get to meet her. Bummer! So, I got all my instructions from Mr. Yogi Kitty. He's not fond of me - that's for sure! I think he just misses Poppy. At least I hope so. I want him to be my friend.

Anyway! Poppy is checked in to college and was happy when Mom left her. She had her heart exam today, but Mom won't hear how that went. Now, she's hanging out and getting used to college life before classes begin on February 1st.

I probably won't have many updates for you between now and then, but you can check me out! Dagan's Dogma Come say hi and see how cute I am!

Wags and Wiggles,
Dagan

So Long! Farewell! Auf Wiedersehen! Goodbye...

2010-01-12T20:48:00.001-08:00

Well, it seems that the end of the line has come early for me. I had big plans for the next 3 weeks. I was going to go to the city with Mom and Dad. I was going to say lots of good byes to all my favorite people. I was going to go visit my Dad's family and say goodbye to them (I already said goodbye to Mom's family last weekend). And, most importantly, I was going to have a little brother!

But, guess what. I came in season today. So, I'm bummed that my time at home has been cut short! I have to go off to school early and hang in the kennels before starting college.

I have a lot to think about now. I have a ton of decisions to make about my life. First, I have to get through my cardio exam on Thursday. Then, I will start working with my trainers. Hopefully, they like me! I really hope they like me! I am not sure that I want to be a guide dog. It takes SO much responsibility to be a good guide! But, I guess that's why I am heading to college - to figure out what I want to do with my life. Mom and Dad say they will be proud of me no matter what I decide to do. I know they love me and will cheer me on through whatever I decide to do. I can't wait to figure out what's next!

So, this is a goodbye that has come too soon! I will have Dagan keep you all up to date with how I am doing in college. I'll make sure that he and Mom start a blog for him too - so look for him in the blog-o-sphere soon.

Hope to see you at graduation!!

Love and Licks (lots and lots of them!)
Poppy

Sleep Over Fun!

2010-01-12T07:02:00.000-08:00

Dad brought me a present tonight! I went to work with Mom and when Dad came home, he had my buddy Max with him. Max's dad works with my dad. Max's dad to work all night tonight, so Max came for a sleep over! How fun is that?!?!

Max likes to smile real big and tongue-y.
He likes to sit in laps - which makes me totally jealous!! That's MY Mom's lap! Why should he get to cuddle there instead of me?!? So not fair!
On top of sitting with my Mom, he thinks that I make a good pillow! How rude!

But, he is pretty cute overall. Mom says he's so pug-ly he's cute.

Sheep Sheep Sheep

2010-01-11T13:24:00.000-08:00

Oh how I would love to be friends with these guys - err, gals! Girl power! Sometimes these girls live where Mom and I work. And sometimes, the very same sheep live across the street from our house! I'm not sure how they get from place to place! I never see them move. We come to work and they are at home. Then, we go for our lunch time walk and there they are! If it takes Mom and I 15 minutes to drive from our house to work, I wonder how long it takes the sheep to walk over. Maybe I'll be able to follow them some day.

So, anyway! I distract myself sometimes. The Ladies (as Mom and I call them) usually see me coming and take off running. Even if they are eating! They bolt! Are they crazy?!?! Hello! Food is ALWAYS better than being scared of something! This is what The Ladies usually look like:

And they are off! Run run run run!
Hurry up Ladies! The big scary me might get ya!
That's where they end up - WAY out in the field! Too far away for me to make friends. I'm not sure why they don't like me. Think I smell?? I'm just a little puppy.

Because of their typical behavior, I was shocked when I stopped to umm... "Do my business" on the outside of their fence. Instead of running, The Ladies all hung out and watched me. It was so strange!
I think it was the shorty out front. I don't recognize her. They came so close, I almost tried a play bow to see what they would do.
So, maybe Shorty will convince them that I am OK. Maybe someday, I will get to go romp in the field with them. Maybe someday I will call The Ladies my friends. Maybe someday, I will swagger right up to them and enjoy some oats and corn from their feed silos with them.

OK. I know I'm dreaming! But a girl's gotta have dreams, right??

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Poppy and the Chipmunks

2010-01-10T14:15:00.000-08:00

Mom and Dad decided that we were going to go see a movie the other day. We were running a little on the late side, so we ran into the theater. We saw a movie called Blindside. I'm not sure what I was supposed to do at a movie. They rushed in and there was all sorts of great smells! I could feel my mouth start to water! Dad bought some popcorn and we went and sat down. The ground was REALLY cold! That's not comfy! I tried to take a nap, but I was SO cold that I started to shiver! I tried to convince Mom to let me sit her in lap - cuddling always makes it warmer. But, she wouldn't let me. Sigh. So, I sat there with my head in Mom's lap until it was time to go!

The way out of the movie was the best part ever! I saw my friend from work! Judy was there! I got to say hi to her and meet her husband and their friend. I got some belly rubs and head pats. After we said good-bye to them, I got to meet these guys:

I'm starting a new group - watch out Alvin! This is Poppy and the Chipmunks! That's right, boys, I'm in charge now! Simon, Theodore - we need to keep Alvin in line so WE can have more fun! What do ya say??

What? We have to go home? Oh. OK. Guess you boys are on your own!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

I'm getting a baby brother and nephew all in one!

2010-01-09T08:43:00.000-08:00

OK, I know that I am going off to college in a few weeks and Mom and Dad will be getting a new puppy to raise. What I didn't know is that he's coming early!! I'm getting a baby brother! I'm so excited that I will get to corrupt...err, I mean play with him!

Ya know what is really cool??? His dog-mom is my half-sister! My dog-mom's name is Carlotta. She has a daughter named Anista. And Anista has a son named... Dagan! And Dagan is coming to my house! So, he'll be my brother and my nephew at the time time.

Like me, he's another transfer puppy. But, he's way younger than I was when I came here. He's just a little baby right now! He doesn't even have his big boy shots yet!

It's kinda confusing, cause he's only sorta coming before I leave. First, Mom is taking me to GDB for my shots. I'm spending the night there to have my cardio exam on Thursday. Mom is hopeful that Dagan will coming home with Mom. If not, she will pick both of us up after my visit with the cardiologist. We will be together through the weekend (so check back for pictures!), then he's going to Hamlin's house. After that, he's going to 2 other raiser's houses so that Mom and Dad can spend as much time with me as possible. Wow! If they are doing all that, I must be pretty special!

So that's it! I can't wait to meet my baby brother/nephew!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

A few of my favorite things!

2010-01-08T07:58:00.000-08:00

I love being comfy! I think creature comforts are great! I love lush green grass to romp in! I love a cushy bed to sleep on. This is the best life ever! Or at least it is when Mr Kitty doesn't do naughty things to my comfy bed! These are a few of my favorite things!

Playing in the grass is fun - especially if there is a bone or kong out there to play with!

But, this is the life! LOVE the comfy beds!

If only people would leave me along so I could get some sleep and make good use out of this comfy bed! Yeesh! Good night!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Weddings Are Fun!

2010-01-07T08:07:00.000-08:00

OK, once again I am posting about a past event where I am feeling like I should be insulted! Yes, I went to the wedding. Yes, I enjoyed the wedding! Yes, I wished people well! I even helped babysit Brian! But, where are the pictures of ME?!?! Not a single picture of me! I feel a pout coming on!

A while back, we all headed down to Fresno for a wedding. It was my Auntie Sue's sister getting married. It's all kinda confusing. I'm not totally sure how these people relationships all work. Mom calls Kelley her Sister-in-law-in-law, but I never never heard anyone call her that before. It's all a little strange, if you ask me! So, Kelley married the goofy bald guy, Bernie. He's a fun guy! Super silly and a lot of fun!

There is the lucky couple! So happy! Mom and I spent most of the time at the wedding with a sleeping Brian. He was sooo sleepy, but has trouble falling asleep when there is a lot to see. I feel his pain! I'm the same way! If I close my eyes, I might miss something exciting! That wouldn't be fun! So, Mom sat with Brian and convinced him to sleep in her lap. Since Mom was tied down to one spot, they stuck me with her too. Mom thought it was great - she didn't have to stand in a single line! Food, champagne, people - they all came to her! No crowds to go through, no waiting! All she had to do was ask for something! That's the way to go!

That's the champagne-getter! Dad was good at bringing that back to the table! Fingers crossed that I get to go to another wedding soon! But next time, I want to do some dancing!!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Sunsets

2010-01-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

Dad loves taking pictures! He also loves sunsets. The two go together well. Some times, we go out and take a bunch of pictures just down from our house around sunset. I love going with him! You never know what you will see. Mom stayed home this time to work on dinner, while Dad and I went out exploring. We were sort of heading for the beach, but got distracted by the entrance to a farm. So, we stopped there to take some pictures.

Here they are!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Scavenging

2010-01-05T08:02:00.000-08:00

No! Not scavenging for food! That would get me in SO much trouble!! My puppy friends and I went on a photo scavenger hunt with our puppy raisers. It was in our mall and there was a list of clue that we had to figure out and take pictures of. Dogs were in every picture. It was a lot of fun! I couldn't be with Mom or Dad because they wrote the hunt clues! Little did the team know that I would be their secret weapon! Mom and Dad may have written the clues, but I was with them every step of the way!

We had to find some Mexican food at Rubios

Find a bench that would fit us all

Take an elevator ride

Visit the mall map

Find a way to get on TV

Get some Smoothie Action in

Jack and I had to ride the kiddie roller coaster

And Nick and I had to write a letter to Santa

It was a lot of fun! Despite me looking like a dork in the picture with Nick. I was trying to lay down! I was sleeeeepy after all that running around! Oh well!

I hope we get to do it again soon!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Thanksgiving at the Marks'

2010-01-04T12:45:00.000-08:00

Another one from the depths of my memory! (And they say that dogs don't have long term memories! Ha!). For Thanksgiving this year, Mom, Dad and I went to Dad's parent's house for the family gathering. It was a lot of fun! There was a lot of people there - Dad's parents, his sister, niece and 2 bothers. Phew! Lots of feet to walk around! But, there was someone better than all the people there... Accord!! Yippy!! I love getting to spend time with Accord! He is SO much fun to run with! We got to run in the yard and have a great time, but once in the house we had to be good! All those 2-foots means that there are a lot of people to trip up with us walking around.

I hung out on one side of the couch and Accord was on the other.

I only had one problem with the day. The people spent the whole time in the kitchen. They cooked some, ate some, cooked some, ate some, cooked some then all sat down to have a big dinner. But not a single thing for me! Sure, I got tossed an ice cube here and there, but that was all! Just look at the counter!

Eventually, I was given some dog food. yippy. I'm actually kind of insulted about this whole situation. I was perfectly behaved! I sat when told to do so! I came when I was asked! I was quiet and chewed on my own toys. I didn't beg for any of that food even once! Accord, on the other hand did beg - and he got food! He got TURKEY! How the heck does that happen?!?! No fair! I'm thinking of staging a revolt next Thanksgiving! Or maybe I will just boycott the whole holiday! No fair! No fair! No fair! I'm a hungry Labrador!

Sigh. These people will never change! Guess I better learn to live with it!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Howl-o-ween

2010-01-03T07:57:00.000-08:00

OK, so I am going way back with this one! We had some random holiday back in October called Halloween. By its name, I thought I would spend the whole day howling. But, instead of howling, these crazy people dressed me up! How insane is that?!? I already wear a fur coat all the time, plus a puppy coat when I am out in public. How many things does one dog need to wear?!?!

So, Mom and I went shopping one day and we went to this crazy store. It was full of people wearing crazy things. There were ghosts and zombies and even a president or two! Crazy! So, I thought I made it out safe and sound, cause Mom didn't put any of that stuff on me in the store. But, alas, I was not safe. I ended up like this:

Mom called me her "Delicate Little Flower." I think she was being sarcastic though, cause everyone laughed at the word delicate. What?!? Do people not think of me when they hear that word?? I'm not sure if I should be insulted or not. And, not only did they make me dress like a dork, they couldn't even take a good picture of me looking like a dork! I'm blurry! Geez!

This is how Mom and Dad ended up. They were Bacon and Eggs. Which, would be good, if they let me eat it. But, as usual, I wasn't allowed to touch them. Ugh!

Drums and Pumpkins

2010-01-02T07:51:00.000-08:00

Uncle Andy and Auntie Susan came over with my cousins a couple months ago. My two-foot cousin Brian is 4 and my 4-foot cousin Granger is old! He was one of Mom's other guide dog puppies. But, he's a diva and doesn't want to work.

So, Dad and Uncle Andy hung out and played drums. They are both drummers and Uncle Andy was helping Dad with some conga lessons. Brian really likes the drumming and he joined in too.

After Brian was done playing with the guys, Mom, Auntie Susan and I decided that we should go look for pumpkins. I LOVE the pumpkin patch! It was SO much fun!

Brian and I discussed some pumpkins, but couldn't decide on any to take home. But, it was icky sticky hot outside anyway. We didn't stay long because it was too sticky and because Mom and Auntie Susan didn't have enough hands to walk Brian and I AND pick up pumpkins. So, we just looked at the pumpkins and animals, then headed back home.

Brian got so tired that he decided to make a chair out of this pumpkin. I would have laughed if he got pumpkin seeds in his pants!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T09:24:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!! I was going to do a "Year in Review" post, but duh! You can just go back and read whatever you want to! I don't want to bore you with the details of what I have done! I thought about listing my New Year's Resolutions. But, I'm a dog! I don't make resolutions! So, I am kind of at a loss for what to write in my New Year's post. I know! Shocking that I am a loss for words! I don't have any pictures from our New Year's Eve celebration, because Mom and Dad are boring! BORING! They both have colds, so we stayed home and watched movies and cuddled. Not a ton of fun for me, but it's all good. I guess I will tell you about what is to come in the next couple weeks for me.

First, on January 14th, I have to spend the day at GDB for a Cadio exam. I know! Strange! They called a bunch of us in early for exams because we are being watched to be breeder dogs. That's right - there could be a whole lotta baby ME's! How fun would that be?!?! Because the Cardiologist only comes every so often, so they have to fill up the day when they will be there. Tara is going in with me too. Hopefully, it will be fun!

Mom says I am leaving for college at the end of the month. That's right! I'm all grown up and headed off to Guide Dogs for formal training! I'm kinda nervous about making new friends. I know that my buddies Hamlin and Cherish are already there, but they won't be in my class. Maybe I will thrown a party in the kennels to break the ice! That could be fun!

While I am there, I will have some tough decisions to make about my life. I will start my guidework training. There will be tons of studying and stuff involved. I'm not sure how I will like that! I will have to figure out if I want to be a guide dog. It's a lot of responsibility. I hope I am up for it! But, if not, I may get a chance to come back home. That would be OK too. I like it here.

So, 2010 will bring exciting things for me! I hope that it does for you too!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

PS I actually DO have one resolution - I plan on blogging daily until it is time to pack my back for GDB!

Oh Deer!

2009-12-31T12:00:00.000-08:00

I've had some new friends come to visit lately. Mom and Dad won't let me go play with them, but they look really neat! I like to watch them out the windows.

Mom and Dad call them deer. They like to come in to my yard and hang out. They take naps and and eat from the blackberry bushes out there. Sometimes, Mom and Dad go out and make sure they aren't doing anything they shouldn't be doing (like leaving sick babies out there - it's happened before).

And let me tell you about the presents they leave! Every morning, when I go out to go potty, I look for the presents they leave me. I sniff out their smell tracks all around the yard and, sometimes, I hit the jackpot and find their treats! They look like these things people eat called raisins. But, Mom gets really upset when I eat them. So, I guess they are different. Whatever. I think they are tasty little morsels! Yum! Even if Mom thinks it is SO gross that they leave me presents!

I do have to wonder about the blackberry bushes though. Those things hurt when you step in them! Since I know that they hurt, I run real fast and jump real high when going over them! But, these deer settle down for a nap right in the middle. They must have thicker skin than I do!

Oh dear how I love my new friends!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Blue Angels

2009-12-30T08:45:00.000-08:00

OK, this is totally out of order, but like they say, better late than never! A while back, Mom and Dad were talking about seeing these huge fast jets in the city. But, driving in to San Francisco when the Blue Angels are in town is a nightmare! Since we had places to be in the evening, we decided to go into Sausalito and find some lunch and wait for the jets.

We walked all over down town and visited some shops. It was cold and damp out, but we had a great day! When it was getting close to show time, we found a place to sit on the water and watch the show from across the bay.

Dad got some Starbucks to help him keep warm. But that ground was cold on my back side! Yeesh! Talk about chills! So, I decided to sit where the people sit. Hanging out on the bench was a little better, but I was looking for more comfort.

Ahh! A Mom-lap. That's much much better! Thanks for keeping me warm Mom! As payment, I will keep you warm in return. Now let's watch the show!

Across the bay, we could see them do all sorts of formations and flying in groups. They went all around the Golden Gate bridge - up and over all around! It was super hard to get a good picture because they fly SO fast!

The big jets flew right over us! They were super super loud! It was crazy! After the show it was time to go home. Lots to do, so the relaxing is done! One last picture for the road!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Ring Around the Nosey

2009-12-28T08:30:00.000-08:00

I LOVE my tug ring! It is SO much fun to tug! I love to pull pull pull people as far as I can get them. When the toy comes out, I sit and wait wait wait for someone to give me the OK to tug. I get ready. Get set. TUG!! SO much fun! I pull and tug and do all I can to get it away from whoever has it. I've been known to pull so hard people scoot across the floor. Then, the dreaded words come. "That's Enough!" and all the fun stops. It is a sad moment in my day. A real low point. I love to tug so much and it breaks my heart every time I have to stop. Mom and Dad are supposed to put my ring up when we are not playing tug. Sometimes they forget though and leave it out.

That's when I try to convince them to tug with me.

I pick it up and start to wave my feet around. The more I move, the more attention I get.

I fling it back and forth a little and try to get them to realize that I REALLY want to tug!

When that doesn't work, I give them this look, hoping that it will convince them to tug. I hope it will work! Who can say no to this face?!?

Oh. Mom and Dad can. It just gets me another "That's Enough" and gets my dear ring taken away. So sad. I may have to figure out something new next time. Or maybe I'll just go pout.

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Almost the end of the Ho Ho Ho!

2009-12-27T12:07:00.000-08:00

OK, I have to tell you that, despite a few slip ups, I am such a good good girl! Those who knew me in my previous home would be shocked at me yesterday! Mom, Dad and I went for a long walk down this place called Christmas Tree Lane. I'm not sure why they call it Christmas Tree Lane - there weren't a whole lot of Christmas trees there! There were lots and lots of lights! Lighted houses and trees - lots and lots of lights!

The other kids got to hang out with Mickey, Minnie and Donald. There was too much mud and I wasn't tall enough to go be in the picture. So sad!

There was even this giant furry guy! Mom tried to tell me what he is called, but couldn't say it right. If she can't say it, how the heck am I supposed to spell it!?!? I'm a dog, after all!

After we took our walk to look at the lights, the kids and their parents (Mom's friends from high school) came over to have some dessert (Mom's creations are NOT pictured in this blog. Any pictures on this page are my Papa's handy work. Mom wanted me to be sure to tell you all that!) The kids got to run around the house and look at all of Grammy and Papa's Christmas decorations. Pretty much every corner of their house sings, dances or makes noise of some sort. I was SO SO good! I ran with the kids and played tug with the kids. I was totally on my best behavior! Mom hovered, thinking that I might get a little out of hand (those kids were REALLY trying to wind me up - and they are really good at trying! It worked!) I had so much fun and I was super super good.

Mom said I had my moments yesterday. I tested my limits at times, but I can tell you I did NOT do this:

Papa's frosting did that to the cake, not me! Mom's cake stood up and was so pretty! But, no one offered me any! I did sneak some of the powdered sugar off the floor from when Mom was making marshmallows. That may have been a little bad, but I didn't do a whole lot of other stuff that I wanted to do! Nor did I lock Brian in the pantry!

I may have blocked him from getting out, but it wasn't me who put him in there!

Now that Christmas is done, I'm getting ready to head back home. But before I leave, I need a few more minutes with Lester's new bone.

That's better!
Love and Licks,
Poppy

Meeting the Rebellious One

2009-12-26T22:43:00.000-08:00

New friends are so much fun! One night, after going to work with Mom all day, we drove down to Dad's office. It was so cool! Mom had never been to Dad's office before! So much fun! Mom and Dad got in one car and headed off to another place. There were tons of people in the downtown area - some holiday thing going on. We took a walk and went to a place called a bar. I don't spend a lot of time in bars cause they are noisy and crowded. It was so strange! There were other dogs there!

They were wearing mostly orange, which is not normal for my friends. We are a green and leather bunch. Mom said that it was a Holiday Shindig for The Hearing Dog Program. That explained a lot - not only were they wearing orange, they weren't all retrievers! There was a Manchester Terrier, a French Bulldog and a few other types of dogs.

After a while, something exciting happened. Another lab walked in! Mom and Dad got excited that he was there. When they finally said his name, I figured it out! We were going to see Rebel! Rebel is a dog that Mom and Dad raised a while ago. He helped out with their wedding plans. He decided not to be a guide dog. He thought that Hearing Dog was much more his style of living.

He graduated back in May, though he's lived with Meredith for a long time. He is a fun guy! He's the only other yellow lab that Dad has had. Rebel and I hung out while the people chatted and enjoyed some wine to help raise money for the HDP.

Rebel and I posed with our Dad. They caught Rebel with his big smile, Dad with rosy-wine cheeks and me with dork-ear. Seriously, you couldn't have caught me at a better moment?!?

They tried to get us to pose for a picture together, but looking at the same thing at the same time was hard! There was so much going on!

There was a CCI puppy there too! She is super cute! We had fun being a pile of labradors. We all had a lot of fun visiting (and were still the best behaved dogs there - even when we were playing, we were the best. I know I shouldn't brag, but I'm just sayin')

After one last snuggle with Rebel (he make a great pillow), it was time to say good-bye and head home. I loved visiting with Rebel and hope we get to see him again soon!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Dear Santa,

2009-12-25T14:15:00.001-08:00

Dear Santa,
Thank you for listening to all my blog friends and ignoring the letter from my Mom. I have been a really good girl since the cookie incident. I have been careful to follow directions and do everything I have been asked. Thank you for changing my name back to Poppy. That makes me happy! And thanks for the Furminator! I am glad that people will no longer call me either T.D.D or Pigpen. I'm not sure why they called me Pigpen, but it seemed to have something to do with the tufts of fur that were like a halo around my body.

I haven't touched the tree or any of the ornaments! (Even though I do believe that the tree should be willing to share its water with me. It seems to me that tree water would be really tasty!)

I have spent some time with Uncle Nutcracker. I'm not sure who or what he is, but Mom and Dad seem to enjoy him. They are strange.

I even tried on one of your hats! Truthfully, I am not too fond of it! I'm not sure how you wear that hat all the time! I was very careful when I took it off though.

I am being a good girl visiting my Grandparents. And I haven't even knocked over Brian once! Even I am amazed by that! He's 4 and doesn't move out of the way very fast. Sometimes, when I have a full butt-tuck on, I just can't stop in time.

So Thanks for bringing me presents! I will try to continue to be a good girl (and I definately won't eat any more cookies off the counter!)

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Sister Sister

2009-12-23T19:18:00.000-08:00

OK, back to updating! This is the post I intended on publishing yesterday. But, while pictures were downloading, I decided I needed a little snack of some cookie dough. Bad move on my part! Yikes!

A while back, Mom, Dad and I went to a Fun Day in Sacramento. It was a great day! A bunch of my puppy buddies came (including Cabana!) My Auntie Sue, Uncle No Rules and Brian were there too! It was WAY fun! But, the best part of the day was when I got to see my long lost sister! Portola was there! It had been a really long time since we had been together! First, I sort of said hello (I'm in the green head collar. Portola is in the black one.) Then, I did what I always do - I showed her my belly! I do believe that my belly is my best feature. Therefor, I show it to anyone and everyone I can! It has freckles and is super cute!

We did finally sit up for a good picture. Aren't we cute?!? We don't look much alike. My ears are way cuter! Portola's raiser knows our Dogma. Carlotta was raised in the same house that Portola lives in now. Such a small world!

My new name - Santa's not comin' :(

2009-12-22T21:22:00.000-08:00

Mom changed my name tonight. I wish that I could turn back time and do things over. I don't think it was really MY fault. How could I resist?? Mom was working on the Christmas cookies tonight. One batch was in the oven and another was on the counter. When Mom went out to check on the laundry, I decided to do some quality assurance. Someone needs to make sure they taste ok, right? Dad's gotta go to work in the middle of the night, so he's sleeping. That leaves me, right?? Just trying to help! I jumped up on the counter and tasted one. OH MY GOSH!! It was SO good that I tried another. And another and anotherandanother...

I think I got down 9 before the moment when my world changed.

I heard the door close, but things happened so fast, I just couldn't stop it! Mom walked in and saw my feet on the counter. Then she saw me hoovering up one last cookie. She said my name (or bellowed. Whatever.) and I froze. Uh oh. I knew it wasn't going to be good. I knew I was gonna get in trouble. I knew there was a chance that my life was over. I saw my entire puppy-hood flash before my eyes. I even saw my first raiser. I felt it. Mom grabbed my collar. I was SO stunned that I got caught that I hadn't even jumped down yet - either that, or Mom was so mad she was lightening fast!

I've worked on food refusal training.

I've done puppy push ups.

I've done long down stays.

I've done long sit stays.

I've ignored hairy cookie dough on the floor.

I've ignored hairy cookie dough placed on my foot.

I am now scared spitless of cookie dough.

Mom has changed my name to That Damn Dog. I liked Poppy better.

I will never counter surf again.
I will never counter surf again.
I will never counter surf again.

Mom emailed Santa and told him I was bad. I think my stocking will be empty this year. If I could turn back time, I wouldn't do that again. Do you think that Santa is like Judge Judy? Will he have some pity on me if I show remorse? (Cause I'm showing lots of it!) I am so sorry that I was bad! I will not do it again.

I will never counter surf again.
I will never counter surf again.
I will never counter surf again.

Can you please email Santa and let him know that I will never do that again?? Maybe if Santa's inbox is flooded with emails saying I am a good girl, he won't leave me a lump of coal. Or a nylabone that I can't chew.

Thanks for the help.

Love and Licks,
That Damn Dog

PS Could you ask Santa to at least give me my name back? I am much more Poppy-ish.

I will never counter surf again.
I will never counter surf again.
I will never counter surf again.

Taking a break!

2009-11-29T08:32:00.000-08:00

I'm taking a break - already! I had such an exciting day yesterday! I just can't wait until I get through all the old stuff to tell you about it! So, I'm taking a break from recapping you about my adventures while I was taking a break.

After Dad and I hung out all day on Friday, we all went to visit my Aunt Susan, Uncle Andy, cousin Brian and dog cousin Granger. My grandparents and Lester came too! On Saturday we went to a place called Apple Hill. I don't know why they call it Apple Hill - I didn't see any apples there! I think it should be called Christmas Tree Hill. Cause that's what was there! And that's what we went shopping for! Who shops for a tree?!?! These people are crazy!

This is the one that Dad wanted. Mom and I had to talk some sense into him. Our ceilings are way up in the air at our house, but this was just too much!

Brian and I had an intense conversation about what kind of tree we each need. We decided that we like the short, squat, us-sized trees. This one seems just about perfect to us. For some reason, the adults didn't agree with us and kept looking for a different tree. They don't know what they are missing!

Then, we found one that will actually fit in the house! Dad decided to cut it down and bring put it in Papa's truck. Brian picked out a tree too. The trees got to ride together in Papa's truck.

After these crazy people cut down the tree, they wrapped it like a mummy! From there, it went in the truck! SOOOO strange!

After we loaded up the trees, it was time to head back to the house! We stopped for lunch. As usual, I got stuck under the table while all the people got to eat! It makes me SO jealous!! That place smelled really nummy! When we got home, it was time to do some playing and some napping. Uncle Andy and I played before I settled in for a nap.

I'm not sure what happened next. I settled in for a nap. I needed to rest after the day I'd had! I was dreaming away, oofing and running in my dreams. Then, I woke up. To this.

No one will tell me what happened, but I think I might be embarrassed to know. Perhaps I should just leave well enough alone and try to sleep lighter in the future.

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Babies and Aztecs

2009-11-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

A couple months ago, Mom, Dad and I went to GDB for the Blind Babies Foundation annual picnic. Mom didn't get any pictures of me playing with the babies, but there were many babies there and lots of little kids. I was SUPER good and Mom was way proud of me! She said I was fantastic! At one point, I laid down and let a whole bunch of kids pet me while we were in the kennel. I rolled over on my back and let them all do my favorite this - pet my belly! I had one kid holding my back paws, one kid playing with my front paws, one with my tail and 2 petting my belly! Heaven! People that knew me before coming home with Mom and Dad were AMAZED at how perfect I was! I've grown up a lot people!

There was also an Aztec dance ceremony. It was interesting, but I was kind bored. No one would let me join in!

I also met a new friend. This is Hercules. He is REALLY cool! It's a horse! Like I see at work! But, he is my size! And he's not a baby! It was SO crazy! He was super cool! His nose is super soft and lickable. Fun!

So that's another one of my many adventures! Come back soon and I will show you more! I'm off to another adventure in the mean time (I hear there is a train, Christmas trees and Santa involved! Woo hoo!)

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Holy Moley! It's been a LONG time!!

2009-11-26T08:03:00.000-08:00

OK, I've become a blog slacker! How can I expect all my buds to know what is up with me if I am not updating my blog?!?! Crazy! I know! So, now that I am 14 months old, I am making a renewed effort to keep up with my blog.

I've been a busy girl since I last blogged! Maybe I will work my way back over the last couple months. A lot has happened and I have had a lot of fun!

Since today is Thanksgiving and I am 14 months old, I will tell you the 14 things I am most thankful for. I am very blessed in this life and I am so very thankful!

1. I am thankful for my Mom and Dad for taking me in and loving me (even if they do have a lot of rules)
2. I am thankful for my dog food bin. It is always full of my favorite stuff!
3. I am thankful that I am not becoming a big sister this weekend (we were supposed to get a puppy on Saturday, but I am glad to be an only dog for a while longer).
4. I am thankful for the treat pouch. It carries my favorite things everywhere I go!
5. I am thankful for the friends I will get to see this weekend - Accord, Lupe, Granger, Lester, Garth and maybe Rembrandt.
6. I am thankful for my food bowl. It cradles my kibble just perfectly and makes it so yummy!
7. I am thankful that Mom and Dad's work buddies love me and like to play with me.
8. I am thankful that those work buddies all know where the treat jars are.
9. I am thankful I have friends to go to puppy class with: Persia, Cabana, Tara, Cherish, Ginger and Tulani.
10. I am thankful that Celeste told Mom to give me a cookie in the evening if dinner will be late (my tummy doesn't like being empty!)
11. I am thankful for Doc, who took the nylashard out of my throat and all the doctors that have taken care of me.
12. I am thankful for my travel food bowl so I never go hungry when I'm away from home.
13. I am thankful to share my yard with lots of interesting creatures that give me lots of stuff to sniff when I get free time outside and I wish Mom would quit trying to run the deer off! (Deer poo is TASTY! Yum!)
14. I am thankful for my kongs that occassionally get stuffed with frozen kibbles to fill my tummy.

14 things! Hmmm... now I'm hungry! I think I will try to convince Dad that Mom hasn't fed me breakfast yet!

Happy Thanksgiving!
Love and Licks,
Poppy

Vacation Recap - Part 2

2009-09-12T09:02:00.000-07:00

We were heading home this day, but we needed to get some good relaxin' in before our long car ride home. Simba chose the ugly pink chair.

Yogi (AKA Mr. Kitty) decided to curl up in the blankets hanging off a bed mid re-sheeting.

But I went big. Gram has a great chair that she likes to hang out in on the deck. She puts up the umbrella and reads a book. I'm more of a typer than a reader, so I went bookless. Yep, this looks like it will do.

Excuse me while I make myself more comfy!

This is a little better, but it doesn't seem to be as relaxing as Gram thinks it is. Wait - I know what I can try!

Yeah! Now that is good! But wait - do you think you could be a gem and get me a drink and some eye protection??

Pretty please??

Now that is MUCH better!

Now this is the life! Can I stay on vacation please??

Uh oh! I heard about this happening - I think I had one too many! Time to get back to real life!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Vacation Recap Part 1

2009-09-09T21:09:00.000-07:00

Now that I am mostly recovered from my vaca, I can share all my adventures. I say "almost" recovered because my feet are still sore! I decided that this one rock REALLY needed to get out of the water. But it was stuck under the sand! So, I tried to rescue it by digging it out. I tried and tried and tried! But, it didn't work! But, it did flatten out the pads on my front feet! They are now smooth, shiny and a bit ouchy when I first get up.

We did all sorts of stuff while we were away. The main goal was to relax and enjoy the area. Mom grew up with the beach house in her family, but Dad has never had the chance to spend more than a weekend there. So, Mom showed him all sorts of different stuff there. The best part was going to the beach to play, but there was other stuff going on at the beach too! Up the coast, near San Simeon, there are all these giant blobs on the sand! It's crazy!! Mom said they were Elephant Seals. They were ginormous! And Mom says they were all the kids! The Dad can weigh as much as 71 mes! That's 4000 pounds! Yikes! I wouldn't want to get tto close to them!

Our on way back from there, we went to this place called Hearst Castle. I'm not sure what a castle is, but I assume it means HOT! It was hot as Dad's BBQ! We walked around the exterior of the building on our tour, looking at the gardens (Yup, those 2-foots are geniuses choosing the Garden Tour when it is 105 outside!) We got to go through some rooms and hid in the shade a lot. I was SUPER bummed when we visited the pool. It was crazy big and looked SO refreshing! I tried to get under the fence for a dip, but Mom caught me and pulled me back! Bummer!

We also spent lots of time on the beach. We walked on the pier and played in the water:

My grandma an Lester came to visit while we were there too!

It was a good time!

We also went shopping in town. There are lots of little shops that were WAY boring!! But, there was one that was REALLY cool!! Not only did it have some cute cups with dogs on them that Mom bought, but it had the greatest name!

Now that is one shop that I must go back to!
After all that running around, I was a sleepy pup! So, I made sure to spend lots of time sunning myself out on the deck too. Now that is relaxing!

More to come!
Love and Licks,
Poppy

Hiking at Sea Ranch with Accord

2009-09-07T11:21:00.000-07:00

Though we didn't actually go to the beach, we did get to go for a hike in the forest! Accord, Dad, Mom and I went together. First, we had to get past these guys - a whole lotta turkeys! It was crazy!

Once we got passed the turkeys, we were able to walk. Accord and I tried our best to tangle Mom and Dad up with our flexi leashes, but they have fast feet and were able to keep up with our antics.

Lots of fun! At least until the pictures started... Then we had to sit still and look cute!

Finally, we said "OK! DONE NOW!" and started sniffing everything thing we could!

Since it was getting dark, we stopped at the fork in the trail where we may have gotten confused coming home. Who knows when people at the house would have come looking for us! We could have been stuck in the woods forever! And it gets kinda scary out there with all those wild animals (totally different than the wild animal Mom says I am!)

It was a ton of fun! I can't wait to do it again!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Accord and I in Sea Ranch - Cabin Living

2009-09-06T20:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, I finally have some downtime on my vacation to update my blog about my last vacation (I've been a very busy girl since I came home from being in season! Makes me wonder what I missed!)
Much of the weekend was about relaxing! This window seat was Mom's favorite place to hang out. Curled up to read and chat with the family with a Me at her feet!
This is what Mom saw from the window seat

Dad's favorite spot was outside on the deck. It was a giant water bowl! But, the water was bubbly and hot and stinkin! Mom said it was chlorine, but I thought it was stinky! I didn't even want to drink the water! And with my drinkin' problem, that's amazing! I approached it very carefully at first.
Ewww!! Stinky!
So Accord and I just hung out by the hot tub instead. Jenn came out to hang with us too.

Accord and I played some games too - our favorite was Want the Toy The Other One Has! Good game! But kinda tiring! But, it always left me with a smile!

Then it was back inside for a nap! All that playing makes us tired! I caught Accord taking a nap!

Hey! That's my old Nylabone! *sigh* since I can't have them, they went to live with Accord. At least my Goughnut came too.

Stay turned! More pics to come!
Love and Licks,
Poppy

WATER!!!

2009-09-04T11:02:00.000-07:00

SO, my problem has returned! I have always loved water, but this was AMAZING! After a long while of playing in the ocean and watching some seals bounce around the waves, it was time to go home. Before we headed to the car, Dad wanted to rinse off his feet. But, I thought this was more fun!

So, now I need to get back with my program! 4 paws system, one paw and one day at a time (unless we go back to that beach today... then the system is back on hold!)

Love and Licks,
Poppy

My Shards!

2009-09-02T09:00:00.001-07:00

Some of you may remember when I got sick a while back. At Fun Day, Mom and Dad went to visit my friends in the vet clinic. They heard that there was something on display that they would want to see - my shards!! They were REALLY hard to see because they are REALLY small! The vet clinic sent them home with Mom and Dad so I can keep my adversaries forever. yippy.

Mom showed them to my vet at home and she was amazed that they caused such a problem and that they were found (Doc ROCKS!!)

Here they are - circled in red so you can actually find them! Mom's fingers are there to help you tell how big they are.

Little bitty things that caused lots of problems! Youch!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Chill-axin at Sea Ranch

2009-08-29T17:12:00.000-07:00

What a weekend! I'll have to post pictures in my next entry cause I'm not on my own paw-top this weekend. My grandpaw turned 80 this week, so our family all met up at this place called Sea Ranch. With a word like Sea in the name, you would think I would see more water. But all I see is lots of trees! Big! Giant! Huge trees! Crazy big trees! Mom says they are red wood trees - and she's right, the wood is kinda red.

Because this is Dad's family, Accord is here too! What fun!! We've been playing and having fun (while being good too, of course). We have chewed on bones together and played tug. We have romped on the decks and gone potty on the strangest ground! It's all prickly and feels funny under my feet! And don't ask me to sit on it! NOT fun!! A girl is sensitive back there, ya know?!?!

We have seen some crazy stuff while we left home yesterday. As we were driving here, there were cows in the middle of the road!! How crazy is that? Don't they know that cars are dangerous? Silly cows! I knew that were all sorts of other friends around here just by smelling the ground around the house, but we have seen some crazy things! A couple of foxes came running around the house! And a whole bunch of deer have been around! But then came the ugly... Oh so ugly!! Mom called them turkeys. But, she calls me a turkey sometimes, but I don't look anything like them! They have wrinkly reddish heads and skinny scaley legs. And there were SO many of them! At least 10 were walking around the driveway! It was SO crazy! Next time Mom calls me a turkey, I'm gonna say "I'm WAY cuter than that!"

Accord is awake and says its time to play again! Gotta go!

Love and Licks,

Poppy

I'm Back in Action!

2009-08-26T07:04:00.000-07:00

I'm home! I'm home! Miss Melanie came to visit me in the kennel yesterday.She does that sometimes, so I didn't think too much of it (other than being excited to see her). But yesterday was different. She had a leash! AND she put it on me! She sprung me!! I'm bummed that my black lab roommate didn't get to come with us, but I was SO excited to see my Mom and Dad! I wiggled so hard I almost broke myself!

Now, its back to work for me! With Mom today and Dad tomorrow. After work on Friday, we are heading off for a family weekend for Papa Marks' 80th Birthday. Then home and off again for a trip with my 'rents. Much more excitement than in the kennel.

Happy to be home!!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Puppy Raising Now - 20 years later

2009-08-22T13:14:00.000-07:00

Now that I have survived (and enjoyed) my 20th Fun Day, I thought I would do some more reflecting on my puppy raising experiences. Poppy is still in season - hopefully coming home on Wednesday or Thursday (since we leave for a family weekend at Sea Ranch on Friday through Sunday, then leave Monday for a week at the Sullivan family coast house. I really don't want her to stay at GDB an extra week (nor do I want to be away from her for an extra week!)

Puppy raising is a totally different experience in 2009 than it was in 1989. Puppies can no longer stay home alone while the whole family is at home/work/play. Puppies have way more expectations upon them and way fewer toy and food options. No more free for all toys, no more raw meat for skinny GSDs or cottage cheese and raw eggs for all. The changes have their merits. I like the dogs we are turning out now, their behavior and their successes. The overall program seems less personal these days. There are few staff members that I would consider "friends." I think that goes for many puppy groups as well. We come to a meeting, get started and get out of there. Now, it is something to get through. The group I grew up in shared life together. Some of the people from back then have turned in to life long friends. It makes me sad to see groups that come and don't talk to each other, don't know about each others lives outside of the dog circle. As a leader, I have tried to foster those relationships, but I don't think I've been as successful as I would like to be.

On the dog front, I think my relationship with my dogs are totally different. As much as I loved my first dogs, I don't really consider what we had as a relationship. I didn't do anything to try to train them from their perspective. I expected them to adapt to whatever was in me. Over the years I have learned that there is NO dog training without a relationship between dog and handler. To be the most successful trainer I can be, I need to figure out how the dog's brain works and change MY habits and techniques to fit within that dog's frame of mind. I need to figure how what motivates each dog and the best way to teach that dog. I really try to focus on the dog part of the relationship and doing my best to work with that particular dog. I would love to be able to go back and raise my first 5 puppies again. Knowing what I know now, I wonder how differently they would have turned out. 3 of the 5 were medical career changes, so the ultimate outcomes would not have changed. But, I wonder how different their personalities and habits would have been. And the two GSDs... Oh my! I really wonder how differently they would have turned out. If only!

As a leader, I have tried to help teach my raisers how to do this as well. Sometimes, it means ME taking their dog and doing the figuring out part, then helping them implement the ideas I've come up with. But, more important that being perfect dog handlers is for the kids to feel successful and have fun raising their puppies. Though it is important, overall, for the dogs to be successful, I feel like it is more important for the kids to feel like they are doing a good job and being successful. I hope that I help my kids to feel that (and I call all of the raiser my "kids" the 9 year olds an the retired couples - they are all my "kids" when talking about puppy raisers.)

My reasons for raising are different now as well. Or maybe my understanding of why and what I am doing. Now, I look at my job as one that is ultimately to make the life easier of whoever ends up with the puppy. If I am able to socialize a puppy to the point where they are capable of handling anything that life can throw at them - public situations, transportation, home situations - I am improving the life of someone beyond what the dog itself is doing in guiding them or doing other work for them. If I focus on obedience and make sure that the dog's behavior is appropriate, it is one less battle that will need to be taken on with the training staff and the future partner of the dog. Beyond that, I have a more complete idea of everything that the dogs will do in the future. I think that gives me a better idea of what I should be doing and the whys of it all.

It has been a great ride! I am looking forward to whats to come. Especially getting to see this face again. She can be a ton of work, but we miss Poppy!!

Happy Puppy Raising!

20 Years of Puppy Raising - Then

2009-08-08T19:57:00.000-07:00

Well, 20 years and 4 days! Since Poppy is in season, I decided to take some time to reflect on my last 20 years of puppy raising, the changes in the program and the changes in me.

I was 12 when my friend Jill and I spent the day at a mall petting zoo. There was a local telethon going on at the mall for our Children's Hospital, with a petting zoo in an empty old store. I saw guide dog puppies there. I was painfully shy at that point in my life. I didn't like strangers - or tall men for that matter - and tried to avoid talking to them if I could. But, I was so intrigued by these puppies being allowed to go places! I wanted to know more. I probably asked a million questions and took every hand out they had. I remember that it took a lot to talk to them. It was SO cool to see the dogs in the mall! That's what it was about for me - getting to take a dog places with me. My parents never let our pet dog go anywhere, no matter how many times I asked (or maybe because of how many times I asked??) I saw these pups in the mall and thought that this was how I could get to take a dog with me! I had also always wanted a golden retriever. Again, my parents kept saying no. I don't think I really had any clue about what a guide dog really was or what I was going to be doing. I tried to convince my parents to let me raise a puppy when we got home. But, I thought it was a no-go. I went to camp with my friend Elisa and had pretty much forgotten about it, when my parents brought it up again on our way home. I remember shaking with excitement while my mom was on the phone with the puppy group leader. 3 weeks later, I was getting a puppy!

On August 4, 1989, I went to my first Fun Day in San Rafael. Back then, it was actually called a Field Day. I had only attended 2 puppy meetings and had my home visit. I will probably never forget that my leader, Eve Hoopes, told her dog to stop being "bitchy" right there at our kitchen table! I was 12 and, if I used such words, it was never in front of an adult and I had never had an adult say that one in front of me! That's where I learned that our "cuss" word came from a term for a female dog.

That Field Day seemed to last a life time! I'm sure that I drove people crazy! I started the day without a puppy and had to wait until 1 PM. to get in line for my dog. I didn't think I was going to survive (looking back, I thought the time would never come, but the potential of losing my life was probably more a result of driving my mother insane with my impatience!) I lined up in the kennel as soon as my mom would let me. I think I stood there for over an hour waiting for them to hand out puppies, but I was first in line! When the time finally came, I was handed a fluffy golden retriever named Jessa. She was the beginning of quite an adventure!

In 1989, guide dog puppies could live in the back yard for a big chunk of the day. Jessa stayed in the backyard while Mom was teaching, Andy and I were in school and Dad was working. Jessa hung out with our pet dog Mitzi all day. One day, I arrived home from school to my neighbor running down the street at me. Jessa had fallen in our pool and could not get herself out. She was in the deep end and made it to a step, but could not jump out. Our neighbor jumped the fence and pulled her out. I don't remember this, but that night was our first meeting with Lynne Shaw. She worked for GDB and worked with the puppies and raisers (a CFR of sorts). I learned years later that Jessa falling in the pool was the last straw before GDB started requiring puppy raisers to have a kennel or fenced off pool. Sorry to those of you who have had to change your yard because of my puppy!

Having this puppy by my side, I was forced to talk to people (strangers no less!) and figured out that I could do it. Not all people were so scary! As this was a 4-H project, I also had to figure out how to do public speaking. At my first fair talk, all I had to do was introduce myself and the puppy I had (Jessa was too young for the fair, so I had a GSD named Nicolette) and tell the people what breeds of dogs are used in the program. I'm told that I looked at my feet, about to burst into tears the whole time. I forgot my dog's name. I'm not sure that I remembered my own name. But, I survived. The next fair talk was a little easier. I look back on those days and chuckle. Now, I can do it with my brain turned off.

My parents originally told me that I could raise 1 puppy. I'm not sure what convinced them to let me raise another. I've never asked. Maybe because it was teaching me so much and giving me more self confidence than I had previously had. Or maybe it was that I made some very dear friends in the group (even the obnoxious older brother types Doug). I'm not sure why, but it has turned into one of the best things that I have done in my life. I'm thankful that they said yes the first time and have been supportive ever since.

In my first set of dogs (my first 5 puppies, raised through Jr High and High School), I am not convinced that I had a great grasp of why we raise the puppies. At first, it was so I could take my puppy and have a golden retriever. But, then it was about the friends I had made and the people in my group and the person I was with a leash in my hand. Jessa was career changed for bad (HORRIBLE) hips. Then came Chotah, a female golden retriever who was Jessa's half sister. She was also career changed for bad hips.

Then came Harvard, my big boy. He was a brute of a GSD at 110 pounds. He went on to graduate with the best person. Bob is an amazing man and was the perfect person to have my first graduate. At 15, I remember being struck by the fact that this man was my dog in a person body. They were SO much alike - though I don't think Bob would ever bite a waiter at a Christmas party as Harvard did. Oops! The incident lead to Harvard's retirement, but not to the end of our relationship. Bob was such a gift to me, teaching me about guide work and blindness. He also taught me that I wasn't losing a dog at graduation. I was gaining another person in my life.

Next was Lindsay, my screwball female GSD. She was my first behavioral career change. I often wonder how she would have turned out if I raised her now, rather than at 15. My dog knowledge is greater and I try to always be aware of the dog and how our relationship is enhancing or detracting from the dog's behavior. With the others I know they were not meant to be guides. I have no doubt that, even without medical problems, none of the others would have graduated. And that no one else could have raised the dog into a guide.

The last of my first set was Georgie. Another female golden. Another dog dropped for bad hips. But, since my parents always promised me that I could keep a CC'd dog if I didn't raise another, I jumped at the chance to take her. I was leaving for college and wasn't planning on raising any more. So, she came home! She spent 2 years with them, then came to live with me. She was with me until she started having seizures and problems that needed more supervision than a single working adult could provide. She spent the last year of her life back with my parents.

One of the things that made puppy raising so special for me was the people. I had a wonderful puppy group. I had adults I could turn to if I needed help. They were the first adults that I considered friends. I had friends my own age that were some of my best friends. I looked forward to all the puppy meetings and all the long car rides going to Field Days around the state. It was a great way for me to spend my teen years.

I can't say enough about how special the people were that worked in the Puppy Raising Department back then. Not that they aren't great today, but you had personal relationships with them. All raisers did. You sent them cards and pictures of your puppies. You included them in your life, because they were apart of it. Geri Owens was amazing. Not only was she super friendly and knowledgeable, but she also had an amazing knack for knowing the family tree of each and every dog in the program. It was insane! Char Hanson was equally amazing (even if she did give my second puppy away for someone to walk when we were late to pick her up. We got lost. And Char lost my puppy. I was 13 and was almost in tears over it). Paul Keasberry (sp??) was great. Betsy was fabulous (despite the fact that I spent years scared of her). I can look back now and see that Lynne Shaw had tremendous dog knowledge, but I was so stinking scared of her that I couldn't think when I was around her back then. And Howard. What a character! There was a large span of time when I spoke to him each and every Thursday for training updates on the puppies in my group. He brought me Georgie (and ruined her on the way by allowing her to sit in the front seat. To her dying day, if she could push someone into giving up the front seat for her, she would). He's still around GDB and still a character.

And Dr Dietrich! Doc - the guide dog school vet is amazing. He has done such special things for me over the years - things that are just his nature, but meant so much to me at the time. He's not involved with every puppy, but those moments that he is involved in are often scary or upsetting. He has had a way of making them so much easier to get through. 20 years later, he is still the vet that I compare all others to. I have a hard time finding a new vet because I expect so much out of them based on my experiences with Doc. He's still at GDB and is still amazing. When Poppy had her throat issue, I was so happy he was the one treating us that I could have cried! I will be one sad puppy raiser when he retires!

That is the then. I will end here for now and reflect on the years since later. Its been a great adventure for me and I am thankful every day for the people and pups that have come in to my life over the past 20 years. Hopefully, I'll dig up some "then" pictures to add too :)

No licks, but lots of love,
Cassie (missing Poppy)

I'm Outta Here!

2009-08-05T17:41:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I'm going on a 3 week vacation! I'm going to a resort where there is no internet connection, where I have to do nothing other than lay around and relax or play as I please. My meals will be prepared for me and someone will clean up after me. And, I will have LOTS of friends around me! I'm came in season today, so its off the the GDB Kennels I go!

I'm really hoping that they forget that Mom told them I cannot have Nylabones - I saw them in the other kennels and REALLY hope I get one too!

But, there are lots of things I am going to miss while I am away too. Mom's work picnic is on Saturday, then my puppy group is having one on Tuesday. Next Friday, I was supposed to go to a BBQ at Melanie's house. Next Saturday is Fun Day - my sisters and brothers will be there and I'm gonna miss out! Then, Sunday is the big Ferry Ride with Mom's old puppy group. A BBQ at our house follows later in the week, my 2-foot cousin is having a Birthday party and all sorts of cool stuff is happening while I'm away!! I'm TOTALLY bummed about that! But, hopefully, I will be back home before Mom and Dad head off for a weekend at Sea Ranch, then back to Morro Bay for a week. I hear Accord is going to be at both those places! So, at least some fun stuff will be happening when I get back.

Have fun and Fun Day for me!
Love and Licks,
Poppy

My friend Accord

2009-07-26T17:49:00.000-07:00

After we got home from the coast, Mom got a call about the dog they had before me. His name is Accord. I knew he must be a cool dog, cause my Dad talks about him all the time (it gets annoying really "Cordo this. Cordo that. Cordo was perfect...blah blah blah!) So, the call Mom got was that Accord has decided that he doesn't want to be a guide dog. We all have to make our own decisions about this. While Mom and Dad were sad, they were also happy that the right decision was being made for Accord and that he was going to live with my Auntie Diana. I am SUPER excited that I will have a lab friend at family gatherings! When its just me and the herder, I get blocked in places I don't wanna be! Now it will be 2 of us! We still may be herded, but at least we will be stuck somewhere with a friend!

Accord spent a couple days with us before he left for Sacramento. We did lots of running and playing!

He also showed me that he had to sit and be good for meals too!

Then he showed me his box. Let me tell you - this makes me think the boy is kinda odd! There is this box on the floor in the kitchen. I've always thought that it was strange to keep it, but sometime my friend Mr. Kitty sits in it - actually, he sits in that box almost every day. Sometimes he naps there. I prefer a fluffy bed, but whatever. But, here is the real reason they have the box! Some of us learned Go To Bed correctly. Then there is Accord. He got all upset when you asked him to go on a blanket - but had to problems doing this:

What a nut! Then, we headed off to deliver Accord to his new home. We met Auntie Diana and Jennifer at my grandparent's house so we didn't have to leave Accord in a new home - this was as confusing for him, but easier on his emotions (he's such a girly boy!) First, we headed to the waterfront for pictures and a walk.

Then for the big hand off. It was fun having him to play with, but I'm kinda glad he's gone! Now I get Mom and Dad all to myself!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Moving Forward!

2009-07-25T19:36:00.000-07:00

Well, I caught you all up on what I was doing while I was "away," but didn't keep you up to date on the current happenings! Ugh! I just may never catch up! So, instead, i will just start from here.

I have a new habit that is driving my parents crazy! They have done so much work on getting me to accept and follow rules and talk about how much I have improved and how great I am doing. So, just to keep them on their toes, I decided to start something new. Whining. Yup! The squeaky, nails-on-a-chalk-board kinda whine that drives people nuts! My favorite time to do it is early on sleep in days. Saturdays are the best (since it is the only real sleep in day they have). You see, the cats and I like to be fed, but when they sleep in, we get fed late. That's a problem for us. So, about the time the alarm normally goes off, I'll throw in a whiiiiiiiiiinnnnnnnnnne. Then another and another.

It's a hard one for them to fix - they don't want to get out of bed and come over to me. They could try to use a squirt bottle on me - I say bring it on! I LOVE getting a squirt of water! I also LOVE being in control. My whining gives me just a little bit of that. If they come to me, they touch me and that makes me happy. If they don't come over to me, I keep on whining. Either way, it's a win-win situation for me and a lose-lose for them. It really is great fun to see Mom's frustration with it. The best was when I decided I needed to get up with Dad at 4:15 AM on Friday. Ha! Take that for not filling my belly when I'm clearly wasting away and about to die of hunger.

Mom's on to me though - I feel her new fix coming and I don't think I'm going to like it. So, I'll have to come up with something new!

Speaking of hunger - I just realized that my dinner is late! Gotta get my whiner primed and working! BELLY EMPTY! STARVING! ABOUT TO KEEL OVER FROM HUNGER!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Kiddie Pool Fun!

2009-07-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

So, with my new rules of not being allowed to have Nylabones came some other ideas of what I can do to have fun. Mom was told about one that she only wants to use when we are outside. She took a tupperware dealy and put water in it. Then, she put it in the freezer. Out came a big giant ice cube! I LOVE ice cubes!!

Ice cube now please!

So, when Mom and Dad were out working in the yard, they put out the kiddie pool, filled it with some water and dropped in my giant cube. It was SO much fun!! I REALLY like picking up the big giant cube and holding it in my mouth until it is SO cold that I can't take it any more. Then, I spit it out and with a big SPLASH is goes back into the water! Such fun!

Got it! Uh oh... I think my tongue is stuck! Now what do I do? Nevermind! I fixed it! It's all good!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Lower is better!

2009-07-16T22:25:00.000-07:00

Did you know that people play strange games? My whole puppy group went to this place called Scandia a couple weeks ago. People take little balls and hit them with sticks. Sometimes the balls go through loop-to-loops. Some times they go in one place and you have to go down some stairs to see where your ball ended up. Really, it was quite strange. But, the people had a great time!

And you know what they did?? They used us puppies as hazards! How rude! Here were the rules: you HAD to have a puppy leash when it was your turn. (After all, we were there for a puppy meeting!) If we touched the ball, you added a stroke to your score. If we picked up the ball, you got a stroke added. Like we puppies are so likely to do such things?!?! Just to prove how insulted we were by the rules NONE of us touched the balls! Take that rule makers!

It was a fun night! My Dad even won! But not because any of the other puppies were bad! It's because I am his lucky charm! Yea me! I can't wait to go again!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Watch Out! It's Coming After You!

2009-07-15T15:00:00.000-07:00

Well, you all know that I love the water already, but I'm still in looking back mode! So, a couple weeks ago, Mom and Dad thought it was warm enough in town to go out to the beach! When we got there, it was SO windy! I thought that my ears were going to blow right off my head!

We all went down to the water. Mom thought I would see the water and jump on in and romp around! But, No! I had totally different ideas! Did you know that when you get close to that water it chases you? I was going to go up and stick my toes in and see how it was. But, the water started coming at me! A line of white foam came streaming towards me! So, I did what any self-respecting lab would do - I turned tail and ran as fast as my feet would take me! That was scary!

Then I decided to give it another chance and see if it would take me on again. I headed back to the water and approached it carefully.

ACK! It got me!! I don't know how it happened! I was watching it SO carefully! But, the water looped around and got me from the side!

When it got me, I decided that maybe the water wasn't so bad! It felt good on my toes! And, if you stand still long enough, the ground starts to disappear under my feet! It kinda disolves! It feels so funny! After a little bit of romping and playing, it was time to go! We took a few more pictures and headed to the car. Look at how my ears are flying in the breeze!

The car ride home gave me time to dry off and take a snooze! All that running makes a girl tired!

I can't wait to go back again!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Father's Day - Looking Back

2009-07-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

So, back to updating you all on what I did during my blogging vacation! For Father's Day, we went to see Dad's family. Not only was it Father's Day, but it was also Auntie Diana's Birthday! What fun!! Mom and Dad told me that I would be meeting my dog cousin, Lupe there, so I was super excited. But, Uncle Steven got too sunburned to come! I'm really bummed that I didn't get to meet her!

But, we still had fun! (Mom thinks I probably had more fun without Lupe there - she's pretty bossy!) I got to meet most of the rest of the family - so that was cool! I put on my best greeting face for each of them:

That should work, right?? When it didn't, I had to tell people to pet me. Then, I talked to them to demand some petting!

Instead of petting me, they started calling me Chewbacca! I'm not sure why. In my head I was saying "PET ME PET ME PET ME!" But, instead of petting me, they all say "Aawoowooowoowoo to you too!" Then they would laugh at me! I was a it confused by it all.

We took a family picture for the day too.

Now that I've been thinking about getting pets, I think I'm gonna go put my cute face on and see what happens!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Conference Weekend

2009-07-08T17:45:00.000-07:00

Since I spent a whole month off from blogging, I think I need to go back and update you on some of the stuff that I did. I am always doing something new! Its been nothing but fun - which is why I took some time away from the paw top computer. Its hard to have fun and keep up with your blogging!

A couple weeks ago, Mom, Gram, Auntie Susan and I all met up with a whole lotta women! It was insane! There was so much estrogen in the building that I almost came in season! Ha! We listened to a woman named Beth Moore speak. We did lots of singing too. It was a lot like church - but instead of 200 of my friends, it was 6,000 women! But some of my church friends were there. I always think it is kinda odd to go out of town and be someplace totally new and run into people who I know! Look at all these women! At least they were mostly dog loving women, who liked to give belly rubs!

I sat and watched when I wasn't asleep Even when the lights were out, I did my best to stay awake and pay attention.

At least a cute little cross named Dot had to sit and be good through the conference too! She looked like she would be super fun to play with! She's an 8 month old black cross and I really really wanted to play! But, we had to be good! But, eventually, I decided I was bored. So, I got out my "Are you kiddding me??" face and put all my energy behind it.

How could that face not convince you that I was ready to go?!?!

I will tell you a secret about the weekend though... Mom, Gram and Auntie Sue stayed in a hotel together. Because the others had the sniffles, Mom decided to sleep on the floor - WITH ME!!! I slept under the table that was in the room and Mom slept next to me. It was great! (And don't listen to Mom! It didn't smell *that* bad when I tooted in her face!)

Oh well, it was a fun weekend! Even if it was stinkin hot! No place should be 110 degrees! Ouch! Time to cool off!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

One last day!

2009-07-05T15:26:00.000-07:00

It was almost time to go home, but we still wanted to get some fun in before the loooooong car ride home. So, we went in to Morro Bay to look around. Dad wanted to go check out the rock, but it was really crowded over there! So, we went around the back side of the rock to look at the water.

Dreaming of going out for a swim and SO bummed that I don't get any more ocean play this weekend.

We stopped for a family picture too. I hear this one will end up framed and on the wall at home. Yippy! I am finally making the wall! But seriously, enough was enough! That rock was really hard to sit on! I'm pretty skinny ya know - not much padding back there! Here's my "I'm done!" face.

Then it was time to head back to the house to pack up and take off. I like riding in Papa's truck. I get to sit up front with Gram. It's a great place to be!

No really! It's great even if I have my bummed out face on! I was bummed cause vacation was over and we were heading home. Though, I was looking forward to a long nap! I was pooped!

Starting this week, I will be posting about my adventures during my hiatus. So, keep checking back to see the fun I had!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-05T09:36:00.000-07:00

What a day of excitement and fun! There's only one part of the day that I would have changed. I would have had the silly people make sure they had a non-leather leash when went to the beach! Getting my feet wet is just not enough to satisfy me!

So, we got up early and headed into Cayucos for breakfast. The staff people there were weird - they were all dressed like hippies! It's not like it was Halloween people! But, it was cool cause they ate out on the deck, so Lester got to come too!

Then, it was out for the parade! We took some pictures while waiting for the start.

Then the parade started coming! The big giant flag was really cool!

So far away from our farm, but even here there was a dancing chicken!

Hey! Look! There are our hippies from breakfast! Oooh... The Sea Shanty of Love! Got it!

This one made my Dad drool! I didn't know that people can drool too! But, he loves old cars and flames!

Then, it was off to the beach to look at the sand castles. We had to walk quite a way to get there. Look at all the people! It was crazy crowded!

The sand castles were really cool! I thought sand was just for digging in! Who knew you could build stuff out of it!

I did have one scary moment though! There was a shark on the beach and I thought it was going to eat me! It was super scary! But, then I realized it was made of sand and I would be ok!

After that scare, I really wanted to go in the water. But, we didn't have a flexi leash with us - just my good leather leash. I got to get my tooties wet, but that was all. I cried a little.

Mom and Dad promised they would take me for a swim later in the afternoon, but I was SO tired when we got home that I conked out! By the time I was up and moving again, there was so much going on at the beach that I couldn't go. No fireworks for me! I stayed snug and a bug in my crate while the family went to the beach for the show. Lester told me that we were better off at home. Of course, he's a wimp! I think it would have been fun! OH well - maybe next year!

Vacation Time!

2009-07-03T21:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a way long day! After hours of work, I had to sit in the car for-EVER!! We stopped in some place called Salinas for dinner, then it was back in the car. I didn't think they were ever going to let me out! But, finally we stopped the car and got out at a house I have never been to before. But, my grandparents were there and so was Lester! (He's the golden retriever that lives with my grandparents - he tried to teach me to swim on my last trip to Fresno)

It was fun to see him, but right after we got there, it was time for bed! Let me tell you - that was NOT working for me! And since we didn't have a crate, I got up and down all night long! It was SO much fun to bug Mom and Dad all night!

This morning, we woke up and hung out around the house - the people call it the Beach House. I don't know why - there isn't any beach in the house. Dad and I hung out on the deck and played with bubbles - it was such fun! Gram kept telling me that bubbles don't taste good - but I thought they did!

Then we headed off to Avila Beach for some shopping and wandering around. That wasn't too exciting - I wasn't even allowed on the beach! Actually -we didn't try to go. It was a no dogs beach and what fun is sand and water with your puppy coat on?? None!

We ended up at a place called Avila Farm. There were all sorts of friends there! Goats! Roosters! Sheep! Peacocks! Cows and mini horses! It was SO much fun to see all the animals! There was also a big giant tire. It was SO big I could sit inside!

After a nap at home, the best was yet to come! After the people ate dinner, we went over to a house near by. When we drove up, there were 2 dogs out on the balcony - a lab and a cross. Mom started saying hi to the lab - called him Pele. Hey! I've heard that name before! Mom raised him a long time ago and he now lives with their friends. The cross is also a CC dog. Her name is Loden. We visted with them for a little while, then we went off to the beach! Yippy!!!

I had SO much fun romping in the waves! I love jumping over the white foam and into the water! I love racing through the water at full speed. It was SO much fun! The seaweed smells SO good! I love sniff sniff sniffing it!

Of course, Dad caught me in an intimate moment on the beach. All that fun in the sun(set) gets a girls tummy a little upset, ya know?? But, my Dad always has that camera going and caught me!

Lots more on tomorrow's agenda! I'm gonna need a week of work to recover from this! Time for bed! I think I'm gonna let Mom and Dad sleep tonight! I'm zonked!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Back to Blogging!

2009-06-29T20:18:00.000-07:00

OK, I've been slacking! It's been SO pretty outside that I haven't been in at the computer. There is SO much to do outside! Romping in the yard! Running like a mad woman! Sniffing out what animals have been through our yard. I even stole a marigold out of Mom's garden! Oops! I won't be trying that one again!

I'm still cute as can be!

I'm also still off the nylabones. It makes me SO sad not to have my nylas to chew on! I spotted one in the back seat of the car one day and dove into the back seat from the cargo area of the SUV to get it. That didn't go over well with me. Whoops! But, at least I got a quick taste of my wonderful wishbone!

Though I am separated from my bonies, I get something new! I think it's pretty cool - and special! The other dogs don't get my special treat! Mom takes kibble and soaks it 'til its mushy. Then, she fills up my kong and puts it in the freezer. Let me tell you! HEAVEN!! I wasn't a kong fan before, but now I can't wait to get my teeth around them! Yum! Mom says not to tell the other puppies at class though - no one else is supposed to get kibble ice cubes! It's for "special cases" like me! I also REALLY like just a tub of ice. I think it goes back to my water addiction - but you can throw me a butter-tub shaped ice cube any day! Yippy!

Here I am with my Kong-sicle:

More later - it's kong time!
Love and Licks,
Poppy

What's up with me!

2009-06-04T17:31:00.001-07:00

I've been quiet this week, but for good reason! I have tonsillitis and pharyngitis! Huh?!?

So, remember my sore jaw from last weekend? Well it didn't get any better by Monday. So, we went back to the vet. Talk about freaking Mom out! That vet thought that I had some disease that was going to make me lose function of my jaw! How is a lab supposed to eat?!?! I was kinda freaking out at the thought of that myself! They wanted to make me take a good long nap and take samples of my brain! (well, technically, Mom says they were going to take samples of the muscles on top of my skull - but my brain is there! What if they slipped?? Yikes!) They were all sorts of panicked about this! I, of course, was cool and collected. I'm not one to freak out at the littlest thing (of course, no one told ME about losing all jaw function...)

Mom called Guide Dogs and they decided I needed to come down there for a visit with Doc. He rocks! I love that guy! Doc was so nice not to force my jaw open (like the other vets did!) He didn't ask me to really do anything that I didn't want to do (except get on the scale - I was kinda scared they were gonna take some of my kibble away! Luckily, I'm a svelte 49 pounds still).

Doc said they were gonna take my blood for some tests. Laura, Doc's helper, took me back. Well, more accurately, *I* took her back - she just held on for dear life! Hey, what can I say?? There was exciting stuff going on back there! So, I went running! Whoops!

But Mom never came back with me. That was kinda strange, but everyone was SO nice that I didn't even care! Then... oh then... good things happened!! I LOVE happy juice!! They gave me some in my veins and it made me feel all funny - then a little sleepy.

When I woke up, they said I was such a silly dog! They told me that I had little bitty pieces of my Nylabones sitting behind my tonsils that were causing all sorts of trouble. I tried to tell them that I was just saving some for later, in case I got bored, but they didn't go for it.

Wanna know what's really cool??? You can check out my pieces of Nylabone at Fun Day!! They will be on display! Isn't that cool?!? I'm so proud of my little Nyla shards!

But, those pieces got in there and caused all sorts of havoc. They made my throat hurt SO bad that I didn't want to move my jaw (unless kibble was involved!)

Now I'm on the mend! With a little help from Clavomox and Rimidyl, I'm hoping to be good as new soon! Yippy!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

PS Don't forget to check out my shards at Fun Day!

Poo! A Trip to the Vet

2009-05-30T12:46:00.000-07:00

So, I'm going along, minding my own business on Friday. It was a good day. Went to work with Mom, went to Subway for lunch with the girls, came home to help in the garden. But, when I picked up a seedling and Dad tried to take it away from me I screamed bloody murder! Ouch! It hurt!! Mom wanted to investigate, but I didn't want anyone touching my face for a while! These people are crazy if they think I want them to do that again!

Mom fed me dinner - which, like any self-respecting Labrador, I inhaled without chewing. After dinner, Mom decided it was time to check out my owie again. So, the crazy woman tried to open my mouth! I SCREAMED even louder this time! OUCH! PLEASE STOP THAT!

After I calmed down, Mom started feeling the outside of my face all over. I wasn't thrilled with that either, but I was stoic and didn't cry like a little girl. I did not like her touching my jaw though. I tried to pick up my bone, but OUCH! That hurt! So, I cried and decided it was best to just watch some TV.

A little bit later, Mom started talking about my eye being swollen. She made Dad come look at it too. Ugh! These people really drive me nuts! By then, it was just about bed time, so Mom said she was going to give me some Benedryl and send me to bed. But my jaw hurt! Normally, you have to open your mouth real wide to take pills - but that wasn't going to work tonight. So, instead, I got 3 (yep! 3!!) of the tasty cherry flavored kids pills. I should hurt my jaw more often!

When we got up this morning, my eye was still a little swollen and my jaw still hurt. So, we had to go to the doggy doctor. I was such a good girl!! I sat and waited while Mom and I told the tech what what going on and while we waited for Dr Smith to come in.

I sat SO still while they looked at my jaw. I didn't want to scare Dr Smith though, so when she opened my mouth, I didn't scream like a baby! Not even when she tugged on it to see what I would do. Yea Me! Then, they started looking at my eye. First, she just looked in it. Then, she shined a light in it - that was kinda annoying! But, I was still good! After than, they put some drops in my eye. After a minute or so, I couldn't feel my eye! It was SO trippy! Then came the tweezers. Uh oh! But, I still couldn't feel my eye, so it didn't matter when she pulled up my 3rd eye lid to look underneath. Nothing there! Next, they turned my vision yellow! They wiped this tabby thing in my eye and left yellow stuff! Boy did the world look strange! Then came the funky light. Funky blue! Cool! It didn't show anything either - no scratches, no nothin!

So, they think maybe a bug bit me - or something like that. They sent me home and told Mom to give me more Benedryl - yum!!

But, then we got home... I started crying about my jaw again! I really didn't want to look like a big baby at the vet though! Mom called Dr Smith again and asked what to do. And you wanna know what she said... NO TOYS! None! Zippo! Zilch! Until Monday! How am I supposed to survive?!?! I LOVE my bones! I love my Jolly Ball! I love putting things in my mouth! But, all I get is mushy, squishy dog food. ugh. This stinks! See! I knew I shouldn't be a baby in front of Dr. Smith!

So... that's what I have to look forward to this week end. Ben dryl is kick ing in. Eye lids get heavy. Must close them.

L & L,
Popzzzzzz

Swimming Lessons Day 2

2009-05-25T13:42:00.000-07:00

Lester and I had a chat last night about the giant water bowl. He told me that things (toys or people) in the water really worry him. That's why he keeps going in to get them out. He also told me that its not a giant water bowl - it's actually a pool. I don't know the difference - they both hold water that I can drink and splash in...

So today, I decided that I wasn't even going in the pool. But, playing out by the water and helping Lester rescue his toys from the water is fun. The people had breakfast out by the pool this morning, then hung out and let us dogs play while they relaxed. I only got in trouble once or twice for going to the mud puddle instead of the pool. So, Lester and I tag teamed again. Dad thinks Lester's worry about things in the pool is comical, so he kept throwing the stuff back in over and over.
Lester tried to just paddle stuff back to him some of the time. He would paw at the water and hope to pull the toy in to him. Some times, it worked. So, Dad and I decided to give his method a try - I even put my paw in all on my own. But don't get too excited - I wasn't putting any more than that one paw in!

Most of the time it did more to push the toy across the pool to the other side. But, that could be fun too! We would run to the other side to wait for it to come.

After all that running, it was time for a rest! I was pooped!

When it was time to go inside, I went to the place for wet dogs - it was ok again today because I was sleepy after all that fun! Nap Time!

Hope we get some more fun in before the long weekend is over and we are back to work!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Learning to swim - sorta! Day 1

2009-05-25T13:13:00.001-07:00

Fresno is a fun place to be! After going to see a movie with the people, we all spent the afternoon by the giant water bowl. If you remember I have a drinking problem so, I wasn't sure how this was going to go. I carefully walked the edge of the water bowl to see what the people were doing in there. Really - who gets all the way in a water bowl??

Dad then picked me up and brought me in the pool. I did NOT like that! No matter how much of a "water dog" I am, I just don't think I want to put my whole body in the giant water bowl. So I swam right to the edge and got out!
But, Lester told me that it is way fun to be by the water bowl - but he hates it when people put stuff in there! People are so silly! They put all sorts of dog toys and big noodle things in the water bowl. Not sure what they want with them in there, but I think it is just weird. So, I helped Lester keep them out - He would go in and retrieve them, then I would run around with them in my mouth to keep them out of the water!

The people finally got out of the giant water bowl and dried off before heading inside. I was wiped out and went for a nap in my crate (now that it is kitty poo free, I am happy to go inside!)

Just remembering my day makes me need another nap!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Going for a Car Ride

2009-05-25T12:47:00.000-07:00

On Friday, I went to work with Dad again - not my normal day, but I'm flexible! We were not there very long before we headed home. When we got home, Mom was already there and getting all sorts of bags on the porch. She even had my crate out there! While I ran around the yard, Mom and Dad loaded up my crate and their stuff in the car.

Then something odd happened. Mom went inside and got Mr. Yogi Kitty and put him in MY crate! Ummm..hello??? Why is there a cat in my crate?

I decided it didn't really matter - I like MK and I'm ok with him going where ever it is we are off to. OK guys, we are ready to go!
We rode for a long long time before I smelled something funny. I knew that Mom Dad had lunch in the car - but that wasn't what I was smelling. Then, I figured out what it was! MK! It's not nice to do that in my crate! So, I shoved my face between my crate and the back seat and put my icky face on, hoping that they would get the picture!

When that didn't work, I took a chance and hopped over the seat to try to get away.

Luckily, that got my point across! We stopped and I got to get out with Dad while Mom cleaned out the crate. That dumb ole cat had peed and pooed in my crate! Ewwww!! So, Mom took out the old towels, dumped the poo and put clean stuff in. Then, that darn cat pooed again! So, Mom had to start over. Luckily, that was the end and we were on our way.

When we stopped, we were in another town - Fresno. Didn't know why we were there (this was my first trip to Fresno, ya know - it's not like it is a destination city!) When we opened the door at the house, my grandparents were there! And Lester the dog! I was SO excited to see them!!

I had a ton of fun playing with Lester (and if he talks to you - don't listen to him! I was PLAYING! Not pestering! He's such a stick in the mud!)

So that was my exciting day - more pics to come!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Hearing Dogs and Guide Dogs

2009-05-16T11:33:00.000-07:00

On Monday, Mom and I ditched work early - it was great!! We went for a long drive into San Francisco. Mom was excited that she only had to make one call for directional help (she's SO directionally challenged! Lucky for her, the drivers at work are in SF every day!) So, we park and then I pooped (on command of course! But, Mom was pretty excited cause I generally HATE going in new places and she knew I had to go - and I did! With cars streaming by, I pooped in the gutter. Yea me!

So, we head in to the building and I see tons of dogs! There were little dogs and big dogs. Dogs with no clothes on and dogs in orange jackets like mine. I was a bit confused, but I settled in and watched the show.

There was a great big lab-looking dog (he was mixed with a Great Dane) named Stanley who was really cool. Here he is meeting Remy. Remy was a guide dog puppy like me. But, now she's a Hearing Dog in training. Go Remy!

While we were there, this dog got WAY excited to see Mom! I was all "Hey! That's my mom! Whatchu doin buddy??" But, then I realized that it was this Rebel that Mom keeps talking about! He was SUPER excited to be there. He was SO excited that he jumped up and scratched Mom's face. I was a little insulted that he did that to my Mom, but she seems OK with it. While the greeted each other and Mom met Rebel's new mom Meredith, I was a really good girl. I sat back and took it all in.

Then, the people sat down for a meal. I took a nap - but of course, Mom didn't take any pictures of ME sleeping - just a Rebel. Here he is, being good (and "SO handsome!" as Mom kept saying)

The place we were at is a culinary school - they went all out making it about us dogs! Here is what the people got for dessert - they all kept calling it precious and yummy at the same time. Talk about gushing! You'd think these people had never seen a paw print before! How come Mom doesn't gush like that when I track muddy paw prints into the house?? But these are ok huh??

Then it was time for the ceremony. Rebel put on his cap, and made his way up front. Again that "handsome" word help floating around... He's cute and all, but look at me! I'm adorable!

By then, I was tired of being dignified. So, I flipped over and begged for some belly rubs! Guess what! My tactics worked! You should that belly to a room full of dog people and they go nuts with the belly rubs! Talk about fantastic! I was in doogy heaven!

Sadly, we had to go back to work after that! But, really, it was ok because I was dog tired! I curled up for a nap in my crate. An hour later when it was time to go home, it was all Mom could do to wake me up and get me on my feet - cute feet that they are! It was time to head home and relax!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

My Bath In Pictures

2009-05-11T18:00:00.000-07:00

Hey! Spray that over here! Soap is yummy!

That's right, just a little on the tongue!

Hey Dad, I don't need to be clean if my tummy is full of soap! Bring that nozzle back!

OK, now what is this?? Kinda strange! Don't blow my ears off!

That feels funny on my face!

Hey ear! Come back! I told him not to blow you off!

OK! All clean! How do I look??

Now, how 'bout my chompers?? Do they get done today too??

Fine then. Leave me alone and I will clean them myself with my bone!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Clean as Cabana!

2009-05-10T17:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all you Mommies - and especially to mine! Both my 2-foot mom and my dog mom, Carlotta!

It's been quite the day! I have to tell you that I had so much fun emabarrassing mom and dad at church this morning! It was nap time for me, so I started to snooze. Then, I started to snore! When people started to notice, mom tried to wake me up, but all that got her was one loud, snorting, grunting snore! You should have heard the chuckles! It was great! I have to tell you though, that kid who "kissed" me by licking my face was a bit strange! That is NOT how people kiss!

After church, we headed to the dog wash for a bath. That was fun! I stood in a tub and had soapy water sprayed at me. I got zoom groomed and srayed again before getting out of the tub for a blow dry! Now, I'm as clean as Cabana! I didn't get fun naked timr though. We had to get in the car and head to Benicia.

We visited my dad's parents and went to a people restaurant. People are SO lucky that they can go places and get food! I don't get squat when we go out! Bummer!

Next up is finishing my costume and getting ready for graduation at the Hearing Dog Program. One of mom's old dogs decided to become a hearing dog rather than a guide. He's graduating tomorrw! The festivities will be exciting - a costume contest and my first trip to the big city! I'm a bit confused about the costumed contest though. Mom says I'm going to be a poppy. But, I already am a Poppy, so I don't see how it will be much of a costume! Guess I'll have to wait and see!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

What a week!

2009-05-01T17:54:00.000-07:00

It's been a really busy week! I've had my friend Berlin here visiting since Sunday. It's very hard to be a good hostess! (Especially when your guest tries to hump you from time to time!) Berlin and I hung out on on Monday while Mom and dad rearranged the kitchen - it was the strangest thing I have ever seen!

Tuesday, Berlin went to out puppy meeting with us. My friend Cabana took a picture of her. Mom says she's pretty cute - what do you think?

Berlin and I are great at playing well together - we even listen to "That's Enough!" when we are supposed to!

It's going to get even more exciting around here tomorrow! Mom's parents are coming to visit with their dog Lester. Lester is a 9 1/2 year old career changed golden. Should get interesting - especially since it's raining!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Butter and Eggs, but still hungry!

2009-04-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

Another busy weekend is coming to an end. I love weekends! Mom and Dad think they are more relaxing than work days, but I think they are way more fun with much more going!

Saturday, we went to Butter and Egg Days in our town. I'm not real sure what it was all about, but I didn't get to taste any butter or any eggs. How can I come away from a celebration of such things hungry??

We started at the Cutest Chick Contest. Mom's company puts it on, so she had to work. Dad and I got to man the line and make sure all the contestants were lined up in order. Since I watched them all go by, I KNOW I could have beaten the tail feathers off the competition! I'm WAY cuter than they were! Whatever.

Then, it was on to the parade! There's nothing like a good parade! Though, this was my first parade, so maybe others aren't so fabulous. First, I took a little snooze to refresh myself for the show.

Then I was up and ready for the parade! Most people will show you pictures from the people view, but who wants to see that! This is what I saw at the parade:

Then, a guy that I recognize came by on a tractor! That's Mom's boss and the float that had our Cutest Chick Contest winners on it - some of my work friends too!

After that, I gave up on my quest to be a great parade goer. The kid next to me was asleep, so I decided to follow his lead. Yes... the inside of my eyelids were a great parade view! I was tuckered!

Before we headed home, we went to see if Cabana was there. She wasn't so I sat at her booth for a minute, looking cute for her. Every booth needs a yellow lab, right??

Today we went to church like we always do. I'm liking it better now that I am being trusted to behave more. I can sit and be good and get pets when people ask. It's great! I even got to help be a greeter today. I sit and look cute while Mom and Dad write name tags. Then it was home to help with yard work. Dad mowed and Mom painted. I just wandered around looking cute!

After a while, someone stopped by. It was a friend of mine! Berlin is here to stay with us for the week! I'm so excited! No one told me that I had a visitor coming! I can't wait to play with her and tell you all about it.

Now - it's time for dinner!
Love and licks,
Poppy

Making new friends

2009-04-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

I may have found myself a boyfriend! He is super cute! Yesterday, Mom and I were on our lunchtime walk and the guy who lives with the chocolate labs down the street invited us to come meet his dogs. Mom's been drooling over the young one since she started seeing him our walking in the mornings. She says he's a tank of a boy and she really wants to squish him.

So, we went back and met Ed. What a dreamy guy!! I think I am in love! He's super sweet and very well behaved. Mom even likes him! I know how important it is to bring home a boy mom likes!

His big sister Lil Debbie is nice too. But she's no Ed!

There is only one problem with my new buddy. He's from show stock, which is why he is so hunky. We are both intact, so we won't get to play much longer. He's a 6 month old boy and I am a 7 month old girl (robbing the cradle!) Mom says we will have to be careful since those boys boys are walking hormones... Oh well! I guess I will have to find myself another boyfriend.

Love and Licks,
Poppy

I need new toys!

2009-04-19T20:14:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week. After an exhausting weekend, I had to go grocery shopping, visit my friends at puppy group on Tuesday, go to the pet store on Wednesday and I've been on the go ALL weekend! Mom had a meeting at Guide Dogs on Saturday. I have to tell you, it was pretty boring for me. I had to sit and be good. Not a problem really - but it was a room FULL of other puppies!! And, the brat next to me kept getting me in trouble. I know he is a baby, but he kept wagging at me and poking me with his paw and just generally enticing me to play. How fair was that?!? Then, the dog on the other side of me took my GoughNut! Ummm... hello?!?! Does it really matter that I was chewing on a Nylabone? That is still MY toy!

After the meeting, Mom and I went to help Stacy and LaniJo. Really, that was an excuse. Mom wanted to visit with Stacy, and helped Stacy run some errands after they chatted for-EVER! Good thing I was sleepy! LaniJo is Stacy's working guide. I wish I could have chatted with her more, but some of us have to sit under the table and be good while mom's do all the chatting. How fair is that?!?!

So, Mom and Stacy took LaniJo and I to Petco, where the shopped for Chihuahua toys. How on earth does that make sense?!?! Two labs there with them and they buy Chihuahua toys?? These people are crazy! Mom was going to get me a giant Kong. But, I almost had to pick her up off the floor after she saw the price.

Now, she's shopping online! They are way way cheaper there. Think I can convince her to get me two?? She's trying a new blue kong that is supposed to be uber-tough (tougher than the black ones... which Accord could chew through in about 5 minutes flat) She's also looking at Zoom Grooms for me - I'm now sure what that is, but she's talking about puppy massage... I think I will like it! Now, what else should I convince her to get me??

Better go surf the web while I can!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Go To Bed!

2009-04-12T15:41:00.001-07:00

People that know me will tell you that I am always learning something new. Some days, I think Mom has lost it when she is trying to teach me some of this stuff. And some days, I just want to tell her to go jump off a bridge – really?? Down?? I don’t wanna! Run! Jump! Play! Those are things that I want to do!

But, Mom brought out something new that has me intrigued. Mom put the wooly mat on the floor, then just sits back and watches what I do. I know she has treats with her. I know she is waiting for me to do something. But, what??

I'm thinking... thinking... the mat is on the floor. Mom is standing stalk still, not touching the treat pouch. How can I get her to give me something?? What if I step on it? Yea!! That got me a "Nice!" and kibble. So, if I step off, will I get more?? Nope - that didn't work. Mom? What are you wanting from me? Yes! That got me another!

My front feet? Will that get me kibble?? Yes! More kibble! Yummy yummy in my tummy!

Will 4 feet on get me more?? Yup!! 4 feet scores!
Maybe 4 feet and a head tilt?? That worked too!! Now what should I try?? How about a sit on the mat?? What will that get me??
Fabulous!! That got me a jackpot!! That was fun!!

Tummy full, so I must be all trained for now, right?? I can't wait for the mat to come out again so we can learn some more. Heck - I can't wait for Mom to pull out the bait bag again!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

I like food - give me more and give it fast!

2009-04-12T14:54:00.000-07:00

I don't fully understand it, but there are many steps to eating at my house. First, I have to sit and be good. It's hard ya know - with my food sitting right there in front of me. It's all I can do to control myself.

Next, I have to down. Ugh! Why am I downing while I should be eating?!?! I really makes zero sense to me. Do thee people have any common sense?? So, it's down I go... until I am told to sit again. Are you kidding me?!?! That's what happens. Really! Talk about injustice!

But, what happens then?? It's a fabulous moment when I hear there glorious work! It's the greatest two moments of my day - "OK!" Yes! I'm off!
Food! Yum! I love love love to eat! Unfortunately, the moment doesn't last long. They really need to fill that bowl more so that it lasts longer! *sigh* oh well.

Love and Licks,
Poppy

I love weekends!

2009-04-09T18:19:00.001-07:00

So, as promised, I am back with pictures from my weekend. I discovered that weekends are way more fun that the rest of the week! We get to do all sorts of different stuff! We go places other than work and boring stores!

Last weekend, I got to make Mom and Dad way proud of me! I was such a good girl! It was really really hard to be so good! I know I am cute and all, but some days, I have a really hard time doing all the things that are expected of me (and there are SO many of them!)

On Saturday, my friend Tara and I visited kids at a city wide Easter Egg Hunt! That was so much fun, but I had to be on my bestest behavior!! All those little fingers and faces were soooo tempting to kiss! But, I did it! I was good!
Here I am with Tara

I know it doesn't look like we are being that good - but it had been a long day and no one got the cameras out until late! Silly people! Then, it was nap time in the car! After the Easter Egg hunt, we got to go back to Benicia to visit Dad's parents. I got a much needed nap in there! I was SOOO tired!!

On Sunday, we went to the Bodega Bay Fishermen's Festival. That was another time of being good, but I did it! And my friend Cabana was there too! Man, all I want to do is run with that girl! She looks like fun! But, we had to be on our best behavior. While we were there a giant came by! She was a dog, but it was like she was on stilts or something! She was SOOOO tall!! Mom said that she is a Great Dane. I don't know for sure, but I think she may belong at the top of Jack's bean stalk, rather than down here! The pictures of Cabana and I here aren't great (shhh! We didn't sit still very long! Ha!) and the sun was bright. But, here we are at our booth:

Cabana and Poppy

So, that was last weekend! I hear I have lots in store for me next weekend too! Including playing with some Goldens!! Woo hoo!!! More exciting tails to come!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Another Day. Another Dollar.

2009-04-08T17:25:00.000-07:00

It has been one exciting day!! As you know, I think work with Mom is quite boring. There is not much to do when we are not out for a walk at lunch time. I get to watch people come and go, but that crate really stinks. I like when Mom comes out of the "Bio-secure" area and can visit with me, but I get that she can't always do that.

Our normal morning routine was different this morning! Normally, Dad takes me out to do my business while Mom is in the shower. Then, its back in the crate while she finishes up and he heads off to work. Then we get play time and breakfast. But, today! What a day! Dad came and got me like normal. We went outside and I did all my business. I was on my way back to my crate, but Dad stopped at the food bowls. Oh Glory!! Did he really just get my food bowls out a whole 20 minutes earlier than normal!??! Woo Hoo!!

And that was just the beginning! Breakfast came early and I never went back in my crate. Mom came out and said good bye and DAD took me with him! Are you kidding me?!?! What's going on?? We had a really long drive (but that's ok, because I like to nap in the car - or chew the strap off the umbrella. That's what I did this morning! Oops! They didn't even know it was there!) Then I went to to my Dad's office! Wow! That was so cool! He put me on tie-down at his desk and I got to be out ALL day long!! I got to meet his co-workers and it was way fun! I did a little napping, but it was so exciting to be out of the crate that I mostly looked around all day.

It was a good day! And guess what - I hear I get to do it again tomorrow! Woo hoo!! I also heard that Dad's boss is bringing his dog in to the office tomorrow too (cause they sometimes come, but they wanted me to settle in before the whole gang shows up).

Now, it's time to play! Yippy!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

PS I promise to post pictures and tell you about my exciting weekend tomorrow. I've been way busy this week!

They say I've gotta drinkin' problem

2009-04-03T18:48:00.000-07:00

The weekend is here! Yippy!! That means 2 whole days with only a little crate time! Woo Hoo! And, next week I will get to go to work with my Dad some too! That will be way more fun than work with Mom!

But...back on topic. Mom has informed me that I have a drinking problem. I know I am young to have started, but it is just so addicting! I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE it! It is almost as good as kibble. And the way it makes me feel... There's just nothing like it! I'm in heaven. But, the feeling doesn't last. So, I have to take another drink. Some times it makes me silly. Sometimes, it doesn't seem to phase me at all. I want to feel it all the time. I just don't know how to stop.

Mom says she is going to create a 4-paw system and start a DA support group. Drooler's Anonymous will meet weekly. Somehow, the program will teach me not to thrust my whole muzzle into a water bowl when I want a drink. It will teach how I can live with dry whiskers. And, most of all, there will be tools to teach me how to close my mouth after taking a big gulp, rather than letting it all drool out, covering whatever surface I am near. I will be a better dog for conquering my addiction. I know it.

But, I have to admit... I will miss seeing Mom jump and squeal when I drop a big mouth full of water into her lap!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

In the Dog House

2009-04-01T17:21:00.000-07:00

So, I think they changed my name to Bad dog today. It actually started yesterday. Mom and I met up with Dad for some pre-sales tax increase shopping. You would have thought that they would have shared a little love with me, but they bought me nothin! After being good all day at work, not eating butterflies on my walk and being good on our outing, I was all gooded out by the time we got home. Mom said I was chaos in fur, whatever that means.

Today, I have decided that I want to play keep away. It's a good game, right?? Running. Dodging. Zigging. Zagging. It's fun for all! I can't even list here all the times I have tried it since we got home from work today. Now I'm stuck. Dragline or tie-down are my current options. Mom asked me who changed my name to Bad Dog today. No one notified me - I thought I was still Poppy (hence my blog not changing names to Tails of Bad Dog). Maybe I should think twice about my desire to play keep away...

The one silver lining to this is that there is someone in our house who is in even bigger trouble than me. Mr. Yogi Kitty's name has been changed too. But, Mom says I am too young to call him by his new name. He keeps doing his business on my dog beds! Well, one is Accord's - I haven't slept on that one yet! Peed all over it while we were gone yesterday. When Mom went in to the bedroom, Mr @#$%^&* Kitty came running - we thought to say hi. But no, he jumped up on that dog bed and started scratching like he was in the litter box! Then, Mom noticed that the bed was wet. She about shot him then, but she doesn't keep rubberbands around the house. Today, what did I find on my livingroom dog bed??? Not kitty pee! Kitty poo on my bed! EWWWWW! Mom told him that if he does it again, she is going to BBQ him. Then she decided that she can't BBQ until he catches the mouse that has come to visit. So - the first bussiness on a dog bed after the mouse is gone and Mr @#$%^&* Kitty is gettin grilled! Or maybe fed to the blackbirds that live in our bushes and like to attack people.

Time to go out and play!
Love and Licks,
Poppy

All Work and No Play...

2009-03-30T18:45:00.000-07:00

I decided one thing today: Work is BORING!! I don't get to go into Mom's office with her because it is something called "Bio-secure" whatever that means! All I know is that it leaves me stuck in a crate. All. Day. People come and look at me and tell me I am cute. People come stick their fingers in my crate so I can lick them. People are crazy. These people think my name is "New Dog." Huh?? Who would name someone as cute as me "New Dog?" Like I said, people are crazy!

Know what else is crazy?? Butterflies! Sneaky little things too! Mom took me for a walk at lunch (the one highlight to going to work!) She kept snarking about these things called foxtails, "Poppy, don't touch those. Poppy, you can't sniff there. Poppy don't get those nasty things stuck in your fur..." I hope I don't ever get one stuck - she just may lose it! So, we go for our walk. There are some GIANT trucks that come down that street! If I were a lesser dog, it might even be scary! We visited some sheep and a lady who likes dogs. Mom says she hopes I get to meet the horses soon. If they are as noisy as the cows are at home, I think I'll skip meeting them. So we are walking along and there are butterflies all over the place. And ya know what they kept doing?? Hitting me in the HEAD! Three! That's right, THREE! That's how many butterflies hit me in the head while we went on our walk. I wasn't sure what to think of them. I let them go today. But, tomorrow, they better watch it!

Love and Licks,
Poppy

Home Sweet Home

2009-03-29T20:58:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy 24 hours! After playing in the kennel yesterday, these people came and picked me up. So, it was off we went to start my new life with my new 2-foot Mom and dad.
We made a couple stops - one was the best place ever! I LOVE going to the pet store! I got a new bag of food, a Romp-N-Roll and a Kong! Yea!

By the time we got home, it was my favorite time of day - Dinner Time!! It never lasts long enough though! I get SO excited about my food, then I blink and its gone! I always look at the bowl for a minute afterward, in case it decides to refill on me, but it never does. *sigh*

I got a great night's sleep and then we were off again! First, we went to church. Boy is that place confusing! First, you get lots of pets from kids (who won't share their cookies! *pout*) then you go sit down. Then, you stand up. Which means it is time to go, right?? Nope! You gotta stay still! Then you sit back down. People walk by and you can't sniff them. Then its time for a nap, but it's not a good one! Just when you get started on a good dream, the people wake you up! Twice I was chasing rabbits and once I must have had a food bowl in front of me - that's how hard my tail was wagging! But, just when I get to the good part, they shake me awake! How rude! Oh well, I know it is a good place, because Accord seems to have many friends who asked about him all day!

After that, we headed to some place called Benicia. It looked like a house to me, but that's what they called it. Dad's parents live there. It was so much fun to visit! I got to run and play in the yard (though, not until after I went potty! It's so hard to potty fast in front of new people! Until I went potty, I was stuck on my leash) I had a blast running around, chasing my Goughnut! That was fun, but the best part is that they are working on my recall so I got the "Come!" command lots! Why is that so great?? Because FOOD is involved!!! After a walk down First Street, we headed back home - for dinner again! Yum!

I'm settling in well. I'm having fun getting to know the kitties that live here and playing with the people. One last picture for today! This one is me (duh!) sitting at the end of First Steet.

What a day! I'm beat! I hear I get to go to the office with Mom tomorrow. That should be interesting - for everyone!
Love and Licks,
Poppy

Today's the day!

2009-03-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

After many long nights in the kennel, I get to go home today!! I am so excited! (Of course, I've been told that I am excited about everything life has to offer, but this is different!) I was born at Guide Dogs and spent a few months there, before going to my first home. I knew that I would come back to Guide Dogs for "college," but I didn't expect life to toss me back there so early! It's been fun, living in the kennels with so many friends, but at 6 months old, I am ready for a home to call my own! I'm going to have lots of rules and high expectations, but I think I can live up to it!

So, one more trip to community run for a romp with the other dogs, one more breakfast in the run. But, no more nights here! I've met my new family a couple times and I am excited to see what happens next! And, best of all, some of my old kennel friends will still be around! I will get to see Morrissey, my golden buddy, and some two-foot friends too.

I hear that I better put my cute face on, because many pictures will be taken in my new home. I'm ready!

Love and Licks,
Poppy