Creativity

Hi All,
You may find this hard to believe (extremely hard), but Baron often goes with me not just on errands, but to appointments.  Yesterday we went to my physical therapist, one of Baron's favorite destinations.  He really likes Deb, and doesn't hold it against her that she has a shedding Pomeranian (the dog can't help it).  A new client was in the waiting room, so Baron and I waited outside the door.  A large man entered the hallway, saw Baron and me (mostly Baron) and was noticeably anxious, as was Baron.  I calmly (and cleverly) said, "Good boy, Baron.  Good therapy dog."  The man visibly relaxed, and so did our "therapy" dog.  Fortunately this gentleman did not know that if Baron was actually a therapy dog (for which he has limited potential - see previous blog entries), I wouldn't have to commend him as such.  This was a creative solution to a potential problem.
Creatively yours,
Botswain

I'M BACK!!!

Hi All,
I have been out of commission for the past 2 months - between vacation and life with 2 poodles, I didn't have time to update you on the activities of "Batman and Robin" - also known as Baron and Blake. 
The good news is that the "boys" are thriving even if I am one exhausted servant - and I do feel like a servant these days.  Blake, who we thought had a calming influence on Baron, has turned into an instigator.  To quote a human family member returning home for the 1st time since Blake joined us, "I tried to give Baron the attention he deserves, but the Cinnamon Stick (that would be Blake) kept getting in the way."  Blake loves attention, particularly if it takes attention away from our oldest canine child, Baron.  He also loves prodding Baron into playing with him.  As Baron is twice his size, this is rather foolhardy. 
All for now, but trust me - ours is an active household.  Anyone want a 4-legged curly haired house guest or 2?
Botswain

Bath Time

Hi All,
Dear Readers, Blake smells! I know you find this hard to believe - he is a poodle after all.   Due to the surgical removal of one of his toys (see previous blog entries for details), he could not be groomed.  Unlike Baron, who, believe it or not, prefers to walk around mud puddles, Blake jumps into them!  Blake's faithful servant (that would be me) had no choice but to bravely bathe him, despite Master's entreaties not to.  It was a beautiful day - 85 degrees and sunny.  When Master returned home from work, he wondered why Blake was dripping wet. I simply told him there was a freak shower and Blake was caught in it.   Alls well that ends well.    Botswain

oops

Hi All
I neglected to explain in my last post, that while the adorable teddy bear featured, did not need to be surgically removed; yes, Blake regurgitated it whole (is this fun or what?), the smaller squeaky toy (size of a $1 bill), did require surgical removal.  This "rescue" dog may look like a "lamb" but he is a survivor.  Actually, you have to admire that about the little guy.
All for now - I am still recovering from Blake's surgery.
Botswain

True Confessions

Hi All,
This may come as a surprise to some of you, but Baron and Blake's loyal employee (that would be me) is not much of a cook.  Nonetheless, it was a shock to discover that Blake will do anything to avoid a home-cooked meal, particularly if I am the cook.  He recently needed emergency surgery to remove a dog toy (squeaker included) which he enthusiastically swallowed.  Fortunately the 4 1/2 inch teddy bear (shown below) did not require surgical removal - trust me, you don't want the details. 
I am insulted - he prefers eating random dog toys (heaven knows where he got them) to my cooking!  By the way, if you are missing this bear, please let me know; I will be delighted to return it to its rightful owner.
All for now,
Botswain

Introducing Toby

Hi All,
Awhile ago I wrote about the loss of "cousin Oliver", a feisty Lakeland Terrior.  Today I am thrilled to announce that Oliver's beloved human "mom" has a new Lakeland Terrior - Toby!  Toby is absolutely adorable!  I visited him (without his canine cousins), and he is handsome and sweet.  He has a cute square face and a gentle manner.  Of course, he was only in his home for 1/2 hour when I visited, so who know what will happen as he becomes more comfortable?  Isn't he cute?

I can't wait until he meets Baron and Blake (good luck to all)!

Botswain

To the Dogs!

Hi All,
Do not be mislead by the title of this post.  It is not a toast, as in "To the dogs"...  It is entitled "To the Dogs" because our house is "going to the dogs" quite literally (see will for details).  It is unbelievable - muddy footprints everywhere.  Blake, who is adorable, is not as innocent as he appears.  He was sitting at my feet, munching on a bone. I looked down and discovered he was munching on the chair. sigh
Baron adores his little brother, and feels quite protective of him.  If the dogs are in the car and someone approaches (like a friend of mine), he growls.  Blake is a survivor, and can take care of himself. 
All for now - too tired to write more.  Did I mention that Blake awakens between 4-5:30 am each morning?  I had better get to bed.
Botswain