Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Hiatus

Hi All,
After a several month hiatus, we attended a Poodle Party at the dog park where I originally met Blake.  Everyone was happy to see Blake (Baron - a little less so).  Blake's foster family was especially excited to see him.  They even offered to babysit when we go on vacation!  I am sure the generous offer includes Baron.
All for now,
Botswain

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Rude Awakening!

Hi All,
When we adopted Blake, Laura, his foster mother, told us he doesn't sleep on the bed like her other dogs, but prefers to sleep on the cold bathroom floor.  She said all he wants to do is please her.  That may have been true - for HER! Well folks, things have changed!
I am not much of a photographer, but you might notice Blake resting quite comfortably on MY pillows which are conveniently located on MY bed (ahem - mine and Master's).  Do you see a cold bathroom floor in this picture?  I didn't think so - neither did Blake.  As for pleasing me?  That is no longer his top priority.
All for now, I have to carefully make the bed so as not to disturb Blake.
Botswain

Friday, August 23, 2013

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

Monday, July 29, 2013

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

Thursday, May 16, 2013

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

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

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

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

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