Pilates

Hi All,

Baron had his first pilates class today. He was in the car, and the instructor invited him in. Isn't she brave? Baron assumed it was a semi-private lesson and tried to sit on top of me to have a better angle with which to snack on the wooden handles (isn't that what they're for?). He particularly enjoyed the reformer - found it quite comfortable. When he was done checking every nook and cranny for security threats (one can never be too careful) or food (hey, a guy's got to eat), he admired himself in the mirror (he is handsome), and then attempted to break into the physical therapist's office. This is not as violent as it sounds. Baron knew the therapist was there, because he could hear voices from behind the door. He tried valiently to listen to the conversation, and then tried to open the door, using the door knob of course (a poodle's nose has many uses).
Baron was not invited into the physical therapy office, but assumed the therapist would love to see him and perhaps take him on as a pro bono patient. Fortunately, the physical therapist loves dogs and was pleased to see him. However, she didn't rush to offer him a session.
As you can see, Baron gets around.
All for now,
Botswain

Busy with friends

Hi All,
It is very cold here, now, and often it is too cold for the Dog Park, where Baron goes to let off steam. For the uninitiated, a dog park is a large fenced in area where the dogs can socialize (or not) and run around. It is great - it gets rid of a lot of energy. I always worry that Baron will not come when it is time to go home. Denise, Baron's trainer (his 5th in case you forgot) has reassured me that my beloved pooch will keep an eye on me. She said if he doesn't come when I'm ready to leave, I should walk away, and, if necessary get into the car and drive around the parking lot.

Of course, the dreaded day came when Baron was so busy playing with his friends that he didn't care if I had patients to see, errands to run or a major medical emergency. In addition to this, it was absolutely freezing! I followed Denise's instructions. I walked out the gate into the "holding pen" (like a small dog run forming the exit) and turned to look at my beloved pooch. Baron was so happy playing with his friends that he waved (think tail) good-bye! I could just hear him; "Bye Mom see you later." Someone had to help me catch him. The ingrate showed no remorse.
Chillingly yours,
Botswain

Therapy Dog?

Hi All,
You won't believe our weekend. On Saturday I took Baron to the Dog Park where he tried to organize a gang rape of a lovely golden retriever. Unfortunately, Baron forgot that he is neutered (I just hate to remind him).

After running and playing with the other hooligans, we headed to the pet supply store for dog food. At the store were 2 women and one mellow golden retriever, were collecting money for a program in which children read to dogs. This is geared toward kids with reading and/or language issues. The women tried to enlist Baron as a therapy dog!!! I kid you not. I said I thought dogs had to do things like come when called, even if they don't feel like it. They said this is true, but only until they pass the therapy dog test (yes, dear reader there is a test for this). The dogs are never off leash when with the children. They also told me that some of the kids like an interactive dog like Baron (boy is he interactive). They fell in love with Baron and think I am selling him short. I agree he is adorable, but thankfully they have never seen Baron in action!

So dear readers, what do you think? Is Baron "therapy dog" material? I was going to get him a coat that says "Therapy dog in Training."
All for now,
Botswain

Back to his "old' self

Hi All,

The bad news from Poodle Place is that Baron is back to his old self (it didn't take long). He was great for Thanksgiving, but once it ended, he greeted any guest to our home in his usual exuberant fashion. I think he behaved well because he was worried that I spent so much time in the kitchen,I must be cooking for him. I don't think so!!!

I can now reassure everyone that Baron is fine and back to mischief. It is unbelievable that one minute I was worried about Baron's health and the next I was worried about mine! Baron is taking to heart the tales of Snoopy and the Red Baron, because he thinks he can fly - and is practicing! Fortunately (or not) he is unable to do so, but not because he hasn't tried!
All for now,
Botswain