Saturday, December 31, 2011

Just BECAUSE



Just because the stupid cat from across the street has decided to come play in YOUR front yard, and,

just because it is stupid enough to think it can out wait you and then lay claim,

just because you are OCD enough to know better and you are committed to making sure the cat knows you OWN the yard

just because this standoff started eight years ago and the stupid cat has never actually won,
[he who leaves first loses...]

just because the cat is an intruder and right is might and the yard is YOUR yard,

just because you absolutely have an issue with this yellow cat with NO manners who poops in your yard...

just because of all that....it does not mean that you can't be comfortable while on stake out duty...

and just because you are so comfy, it does not mean you can't take a nap and still be on duty, I am not going anywhere...cat you are going back to where ever you came from....

Peace out...
JD

Silvieon4's comment: He is soooooo cute when he goes all rambo on that cat....soooo dogly and irresistible....

Happy New Year

Friday, December 30, 2011

Seek-a-treat training.

I am so upset! JD and The Wendy just don't get the reality of life!  So, for Hanukkah, one of my gifts was a Spot Seek A Treat.  You can see the toy here with JD.
I read the stupid thing.... it says:
"Shuffle bone met votre chien au defi pour trover les friandises que vous lui cachez! Il lui procure de la stimulation mentale ed le recompense pour etre malin".... or basically :

"Shuffle Bone challenges your dog to find treats that you hide! It provides mental stimulation and rewards them for being smart"...

DUH! I was actually quite offended that momma bought me this stupid thing. I WAS offended, that is until I figured out MY angle. And now my dumb siblings are going to ruin it all!
Here is how I saw this game:

 "Shuffle Bone challenges your human to provide exquisite treats that you find! It provides mental stimulation and rewards your human for bringing delectables to a whole new level "...

To that end I set out to train momma.  I ignored the game when she has carrot bits in it.
I totally ignored it when she stocked it with tiny bits of apple. I am not stupid.  I knew that the goal for moi was her impatience and inevitable escalation to better and better treats to "entice me to play".  It took 3 days before magically....prosciutto bits were in the seek and treat. Yuh, delicious prosciutto di Parma. Of course I played the heck out of the game then!. The momma felt than now she could downgrade the treats. As if.  She slipped in some turkey jerky. I ignored it... but dumb butts JD and Wendy went at it like crazy dogs. OY.  Have they learned nothing?????




 

I begged them to stay away from the game, I told them about the prosciutto, but nooooooo they went after the turkey like it was mannah from the sky.



Look at The Wendy guard it, like it was going to magically refill itself! For real. We could be feasting on prosciutto ya'll!!!!  Ignore the stupid turkey jerky!!! But nooooooooo.

Sigh.Sometimes I wish I were an only dog.

Don't they get that consistency is needed in training a hooooman?


frustrated 'vie 

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Does your dog have FANCONI SYNDROME?

What is Fanconi Syndrome?

This rare condition effects the kidneys and causes them to leak glucose (sugar) and other electrolytes into the urine. A Dogs suffering from Fanconi Syndrome will usually be very thirsty and will urinate excessive amounts.  The most common finding in laboratory tests is that the dog has glucose in the urine, but has a normal blood glucose level.
While some dogs can be born with Fanconi syndrome, lately dogs are developing this syndrome AFTER EATING CHICKEN TREATS MANUFACTURED IN CHINA.
Some dogs have gotten very sick and have gone into renal failure and died.  Other dogs have been luckier. they have an increase in thirst and urination and possibly have accidents in the house and then they may go on to have a full recovery within a few weeks of stopping the chicken jerky treats.

In 2007 there were many cases of Fanconi syndrome in the USA.  These cases were linked to melamine contamination in treats made in China.
In 2009 there was a rash of cases of dogs with Fanconi syndrome in Australia.  These were connected to either chicken treats or dental chews that were made with corn, soy and rice.

 FDA cautions dog owners about chicken jerky snacks

 Chicken Jerky Treats Linked to Illnesses in Dogs: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning about chicken jerky for dogs, saying some products imported from China may be associated with 70 reports of dogs who became ill or died.  That number is up from 54 reports last year, the agency indicated....

 Chicken jerky treats sicken 353 dogs, owners report

Please we beg you throw away that garbage, or return it to the store NOW. 

You can easily make safe chicken treats like this:  http://www.silvieon4.com/2008/06/byte-this.html

PLEASE, pay attention.
'vie

O’Neal’s Feeders Supply, Inc. Recalls Arrow Brand Dry Dog Food

O’Neal’s Feeders Supply, Inc. Recalls Arrow Brand Dry Dog Food


Contact:
Consumer:
800-256-2769

Media:
Ed O’Neal
337-463-8665
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 13, 2011 - DeRidder, Louisiana – O’Neal’s Feeders Supply, Inc. today announced a voluntary recall of its dry Arrow Brand  DOG FOOD – because it contains corn which was detected to have higher than the acceptable levels of aflatoxin.. The affected products were manufactured between Dec. 1, 2010, and Dec. 1, 2011. No illnesses have been reported in association with these products to date.

     Affected products are:

               ARROWBRAND 21% Dog Chunks SKU #807 40 lb. bag

               ARROWBRAND Super Proeaux Dog Food SKU #812 40 lb. bag

               ARROWBRAND Professional Formula Dog Food SKU #814 50 lb. bag

The recall only applies to the above products with the following Packaging Date Codes Lot numbers 4K0341 through 4K0365 and 04K1001 through 4K1325.


The affected dry dog food products were distributed in the state of Louisiana and Texas. Retailers have already been instructed to remove the affected brands and products from store shelves.

While no adverse health effects related to these products have been reported, O’Neal’s Feeders Supply, Inc. is implementing this recall as a precautionary measure. Consumers are urged to return affected products – whether in opened or unopened packages – to their place of purchase for a full refund. For more information, contact 800-256-2769 between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.

Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring mold by-product. Pets that have consumed any of the above recalled products and exhibit symptoms of illness including sluggishness or lethargy combined with a reluctance to eat, vomiting, yellowish tint to the eyes or gums, or diarrhea should be seen by a veterinarian.

Post shopping snuggle





He loves me enough to wrap me up in his new shirt. After all, I am HIS cupcake.
Yea, I know, I have him wrapped tight around my paw.

'vie

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Updated New Release With Corrected Lot Numbers Petrus Feed and Seed Stores, Inc. recalls its 21% Dog Food




 Recall -- Firm Press Release






12/28/2011 11:44 AM EST

Petrus Feed and Seed Stores, Inc. today announced a voluntary recall of its dry dog food – 21% Protein Dog Food in 40 lb Petrus Feed bags. The product is being recalled because the product was manufactured with corn which tested above acceptable levels for Aflatoxin.
. For detailed information pertaining to this Recalls, Market Withdrawals and Safety Alerts message, please click the link at the beginning of this bulletin.

This email was sent to lissa9892@aol.com using GovDelivery, on behalf of: U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) · 10903 New Hampshire Ave · Silver Spring, MD 20993 · 800-439-1420 Powered by GovDelivery

I will tell you when to stop

Yuh -Yuh- Yuh.... right there, that's good, now keep that up, I will tell you when to stop [like nevah...] little belly scratching goes a long way to earn you loyalty points, which you can cash in for full face licks, growl play, blitz show and play, or play snuggles.  You call it. Just don't stop or all bets are off.


I am melting all over the place. You have such nice hands and you know how to use your thumbs.


'vie

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Can you say intrusive?


Why is it that our most private moments have to be intruded on by cameras? Can't a girl have her quiet time alone with her momma without the clicking away of LOGITECH'e ever intrusive eye? 
No, the stupid thing does not diminish the quality of my alone time. Do you know why?  Because I don't care!  I am not one in my pjs and without make up on! I have what you may call...natural beauty. {That should do it. That camera is getting shut down permanently I bet ya.}
And I love my momma and I don't care who knows it. Look daddy, momma LOVES ME the most!!!  {Oh yea the camera is toast....}

It's all in knowing how to handle your environment.

'vie

Monday, December 26, 2011

music to party by










But it's a chewy!

Sigh. I am in trouble. Apparently, it isn't just the Wendy; 2leggeds also hate it when you steal their chewys.  I don't understand what the big deal is though. I left most of the chewy for daddy. I just licked of the cinnamon off! (Between us, it's because mint is GROSS. When I hit mint, I just moved on to the next chewy. I suggest doing the same if you find yourself in possession of some 2legged chewys.)

Also, I need to mention that don't think it's fair that 2legged chewys come in packs of BUNCHES and cheap momma only gives me ONE of my doggie chewys at a time. Maybe, momma, if you worked harder to meet my chewy needs, I wouldn't have to find my chewys on the street. Or in the car. Or in Wendy's bed. Or attached to Wendy's head (Wendy ears, yum!).


So, now I'm in trouble. Limited belly rubs. 2legged huffs and puffs. NO CHEWYS. It is the pits. The mint pits. My only consolation is that daddy is also in trouble. I guess momma thinks he needs to find a better hiding place for his chewys. I'm a little concerned that he will try to steal some of my hiding places (the best? under the momma when she sleeps), but if he does, I'm just going to steal his chewys again and we're back where we started. So, you know, the circle of life and such.

When I'm done pouting, I'm going to get peggy piggy and show them how much I don't enjoy being in trouble. I bet that will change their minds.

c'est la moi.... hahahahahahah that's funny.... as I  am VIE!!!!!

Sunday, December 25, 2011

Merry holidays

 

 

 




MERRY HANUKKAH


HAPPY CHRISTMAS

MERRY HAPPY HANUKKAH

I AM SO CONFUSED....

WHICH IS IT, AGAIN, HOW DOES IT GO???


OK OK.

MERRY CHRISTMAS ONE AND ALL AND

HAPPY HANUKKAH

Now, pass the corned beef, will ya... just pass it, later later we can do the Christmas dinner.

do you like my new crinkle toy?

I like it, it smells like treats, hint hint... I know what other gifties are in store for me.


'vie

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Tonight is THE night, right?




  This is moi, killing time. Or trying to...kill time. Tonight is the night Chanukah Harry makes his grand visit.  Roomers are abound that the old boy has really packed in the pounds.  I am kind of worried about him.  Will he fit down my chimney?  Has he switched to navy as it is slimmer than Chanukah blue?  [I would]  And that's not the only worry I have.  I hope he does not  see momma's boxes and think that they are presents, too many present to leave me something.  I have been good.  And I quote: "Good enough to eat", "Good enough to squeeze", "Good enough to kiss all over"..."Good enough to snuggle"...[Just between us, some two leggeds really need some kind of therapy, if you catch my drift...] So, anyway. What are you doing to while away the hours until CH makes his appearance?  I am told his cousin Santa Claus wears a red suit and does half of the world.  Same schtick, just different colored outfit.  I guess when you are in a family business, you carry on, but put your own spin on things.
I would have chosen a pink suit trimmed in white, with some glorious bedazzling.  Some of us are all about the glamor.

Back to my downward facing human yoga pose...

the good enough girl
'vie

Thursday, December 22, 2011

So many suggestions... BUT

http://www.examiner.com/pets-in-cleveland/gift-ideas-for-pet-lovers-this-holiday


http://www.ivillage.com/one-way-mirror-birdfeeder/7-b-409047


http://www.gifts.com/christmas/pet/pe6CQf


http://www.findgift.com/For-Who/for-a-Pet/for-Dogs/  


and there are a bizillion lists and links like the ones above.

BUT, the truth is... What I really want is time with you. TIME. Your undivided attention and just you. I want a snuggle, or a walk or a ride or ANYTHING that involves the two of us spending some quality time together. Put the world on hold and be mine for a bit. That would be the best present of all!

Cause you know, I really really love you.
'vie

ahh youth....

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

I think I like Catholics

From :Florilegia
BEING AN AGGREGATION OF DISPARATE THINGS
Two churches located across the street from each other...




…Do the Presbyterians think Rocks are animals?
ALL ROCKS GO TO HEAVEN
CONVERTING TO CATHOLICISM DOES NOT MAGICALLY GRANT YOUR DOG A SOUL.
 WOW. EPIC CATHOLIC WIN.

Monday, December 19, 2011

white hat society SECRETS





















There was another meeting today... well, well, do you notice that there were MEN in attendance?

There were other people in attendance, but we suspect that momma forgot why she had a camera. Either that or the likely explanation for failing to picture everyone lies at the salt covered rim of a glass.

And yes, momma took the weird hat theng to a whole new level.... and daddy.... akihol. I saw alkihol and momma smelled of it. Not saying a thing here. just watching.  Next she is going to want catnip... I know how that plays out.

I am not telling tales out of school, I am simply REPORTING. So, what else do you think went on? I know Recipes to the Rescue was being passed around... and harnesses... and stuff...

And for that she left us at home..... sigh


'vie

Daddy dearest,


Check this out!
"Dr Phil Rice, virologist at St George's, University of London, found chickenpox is much less common in places with high UV ray levels.


UV light is known to inactivate some viruses, and Dr Rice believes his findings show UV rays could inactivate the varicella-zoster virus - responsible for chickenpox and shingles - on the skin before it transmits to another person.


His discovery explains why there is less transmission in the tropics, where chickenpox is much less frequent than in temperate countries.


It also explains why chickenpox peaks in temperate zones - where it is seasonal - in winter and spring, when UV rays are lowest.


Dr Rice examined data from 25 studies on varicella-zoster virus prevalence patterns in temperate and tropical areas across the globe. He plotted the data against a range of climatic factors, to look at what might be the most likely causes of increased prevalence.


The data showed that, once other factors were ruled out, UV rays were the only factor to match the patterns in each country studied.


Dr Rice, whose study has been published in Virology Journal, said: "No one had considered UV as a factor before, but when I looked at the epidemiological studies they showed a good correlation between global latitude and the presence of the virus."

From http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2011/12/19/ultraviolet-rays-prevent-chickenpox_n_1157275.html

Daddy!!!! And THERE you have it. Our Afrikana violet, momma, needs to be in a sun drenched location soaking up all the UV rays that she can. As I am personally tired of the broken version of momma, I vote that we move her where she can shed the rags and run around in the sun.

I miss the non broken version of momma. You just can't fight facts. I figure that if we expose momma to some serious sunshine, we can get her over the this caca.  Look, I have given up hoping that she will ever become a day napper. She is NOT built that way. Sleep is not her forte.

IT is quite apparent to me, that all of our problems would be resolved by moving her where she can get a constant, steady stream of UV rays.  Let's face it... momma in the sun is a happy momma. But you know that already, but now we know how valid all that is!

Where would you be without me reading all the health news and keeping you abreast.  I know how busy you are these days. Hmm BTW, roomer has it that you will be home soon?

Can't wait to see you, let's plan lunch, you, me and some crab legs?

your loving baby
'vie

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Despedida Cesaria Evoria RIP

Agradecer pela trilha sonora que você adicionou a nossa vida. Descansa en paz, Cesaria.  Gracias por tu música.... hermosa..eterna... vivirás por siempre.




Reposes en paix grande Dame . De aguardente em sua honra. Saúde

'vie

Ok, Leo Buscaglia, momma needed you. So here you are.

What's the difference??? Recall v PULL

   You all know what a product recall is.  The FDA has issued tons of recalls on dog foods, and treats.  Last one is for Chicken jerky  treats made in China which have been linked to death of as many as 92 dogs. But that is not the whole story...

There is another type of "recall" which never gets public attention because it is rarely "leaked" out. and there is NO requirement to disclose it.  It is technically called in the industry as a "product pull".   Seriously.... a product pull....

Really it's a silent  recall.  A product pull occurs when a pet food manufacturer  discovers a problem with a food -[Problem could be ...anything from toxicity levels to mislabeling] and the manufacturer quietly.... alerts  retail outlets to 'pull' the product from store shelves and return to  them.
 
And if your dog had consumed the product... ???? Well it's a pull. You will never know... And if your dog had the worst pancreatitis ever caused by that pulled food... YOU WILL NEVER KNOW.

I am just a white, fluffy, curly cute dog. Maybe my brain power is not as awesome as ...say... Einstein, but what the hey is the difference between a recall and a pull???  Ohhhh wait... Corporations have found a way to safeguard that nasty dirty practices without sullying their names...They PULL the product before a recall ... and the misdeed goes away.... ewwww... I just threw up a little... 


Disgusting. And I would like to know who in the FDA benefited from this abominable practice. Who got what to allow this caca to happen???? Where is the grift?


To all the mommas out there: YOU cannot trust this industry. Get your pots and pans out and cook for your babies. They deserve better than corporate greed.
If you do not buy their crap, they will cease to exist. Do not enable such horrid practices...


Ok, you can cook or you can try this :http://www.truthaboutpetfood.com/pet-food-recall-first-alert.html

My momma cooks and we like it that way... she can eat what we eat. It is safe, healthy and delish. 


Oh, the last "leaked" product pull?


three foods tested with "elevated aflatoxin levels" ...
Iams Original with Chicken Cat Food
UPC 1901403915
Lot Number 12794177D3
Size 6.8 lbs.


Iams Original with Chicken Cat Food
UPC 1901410504
Lot Number 12794177I5
Size 4 lbs.


Iams Lamb Meal with Rice Dog Food
UPC 1901403735
Lot Number 12794177J4
Size 15 lbs.  


Aflatoxin are "commonly  found in corn, peanuts, cottonseed, milk, and tree nuts.  After  ingestion, aflatoxins are absorbed and carried to the liver via the  circulatory system.  They are then converted by the liver into toxic  reactive epoxides which bind covalently to intracellular macromolecules  such as DNA, RNA and protein enzymes, resulting in damage to liver  cells.  In addition to their hepatotoxic properties, aflatoxins are also  carcinogenic. Mycotoxin contamination in pet food poses a serious  health threat to pets."
Price Chopper, thank you for warning your consumers.
disgusted
'vie

worth sharing






Friday, December 16, 2011

Happy Holidays Everyone


In the spirit of the season... we let JD take the lead, because....




Practice what you preach

Two tiny things I need you to do today. Really. Just two:

1. Send something, anything to Shiloh and his momma who lost everything in a horrrible house fire. Even five dollars is a help, Even one dollar, everything adds up and when you have -0- to start everything is welcomed.

You can send checks or money orders to:
Sandy Danes
P.O. Box 542d
Pleasant View, TN 37146

Sandy will be at the hotel for a while, so you can also send to her there:
Sandy Danes
Mainstay Suites
Room 105
115 Fairbrook Place
Clarksville, TN 37043

OR
You can send money via PayPal.  Her email address: shiloh_acres@yahoo.com


2. Go here  http://www.refresheverything.com/maryshouse  
and VOTE for this shelter to get help. Look it costs you nothing, and they are worthy of your vote. This shelter is a safe house for many many dogs who would otherwise be.... I can't say it.  you know it....


so please VOTE.

Look, this is what this season is supposed to be about... GIVING, so do it and then feel good about yourself.

'vie

Thursday, December 15, 2011

One of us needs help.

This is our friend Shiloh and the other two guys are Shiloh's goats. First and foremost we would like to thank God that Shiloh and his family are still with us, safe and sound. We have to say that because Shiloh and his family have survived a devastating house fire. You know, that's when every thing you own suddenly turns into ashes and you are left homeless. Yes, devastating. I can't even imagine...losing my fav toy (I stash my duck under momma's bed) or my fav bed, or my fav blankie... I can't even cope with the idea... And the thing is...timing could not have more worse. Who wants to be homeless at Christmas?

Auntie Jodi, auntie Doreen, you are both right. Doggie bloggers are a special community. We support each other, we care for each other and we must stick together. Shiloh's Caniscope is a part of our life we are not willing to give up.

The fire took EVERYTHING. That means they need EVERYTHING. Please send something, anything. Let's make Christmas happen for Shiloh, the goats and Shiloh's momma, Sandy.

Sandy, we know eventually insurance will help, but until then, know that we are all here willing to help you. We cannot afford to do without a fellow animal lover and blogger.

http://doggiesandstuff.com/2011/12/14/what-would-you-do/
http://www.kolchakpuggle.com/2011/12/friends-are-bacon-bits-in-kibble-bowl.html

You can send checks or money orders to:
Sandy Danes
P.O. Box 542d
Pleasant View, TN 37146

Sandy will be at the hotel for a while, so you can also send to her there:
Sandy Danes
Mainstay Suites
Room 105
115 Fairbrook Place
Clarksville, TN 37043

OR
You can send money via PayPal.  Her email address: shiloh_acres@yahoo.com

Shiloh, we are sending you something separate from everyone else. Wags and licks, Hang on there

'vie and family

The species you meet...

Baby Seal Breaks Into Home
http://motherjones.com/blue-marble/2011/12/baby-seal-breaks-home

and speaking of strange....


Silvieon4 "What in the hey is it?"
JD "Dunno. Looks like a rodent of some kind. FAT one at that."
Silvieon4 "Ewww, don't get so close"
JD "Nahhh glass in between us or IT would be toast"




JD"They are going in and out of the tupperware I think they want to be dinner."
Silvieon4 "Gross... NOT my dinner Blahhhhh"



The Wendy "Does it have a name?"
Silvieon4 "Why would you even ask that?  It is NOT coming home with us!"

 
JD: "Are you a girl or a boy? What do you eat? Who is your family? What's with the tupperware?"

JD: "Mute or deaf? Soooo weird "

Silvieon4." Momma, let's go...I have shopping to do"

'vie

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Pepe

Dear Pepe, I hear you are post op and recovering. We wish you speedy healing and pain free recovery.

Meanwhile... milk it.  You know what I mean.  Use those pretty eyes. Work it. You got your momma in a particularly vulnerable state. Don't waste the opportunity. You should see how we work it around here.  Sometimes I am sure momma has no idea if she is coming or going.

But, seriously, stay hydrated, take your meds and snuggle, snuggle, snuggle... that is the best way to heal up.

All of our love and best wishes. WAGGGGS


'vie and family

TROOP 955: xoxoxoxox waaaags AND THANK YOU!!!!!!

A big Big BIG THANK YOU!!!! On Sunday, December 11th, the Girl Scout's of Troop 955, part of the Hickory Service Unit (Chesapeake, VA) presented TBFR with agility equipment they made themselves. By doing so, the girls not only demonstrated their commitment to the community but also earned the Girl Scout Bronze Award which is the highest award a Junior Girl Scout can earn. The equipment looks absolutely professional!
Isn't that fabulous? (no Kevin Lee, that word did exist way before you came along and it's free to use it!)




Pictures taken by SarahDarby

Troop 955 created, designed, executed and installed and donated, a wonderful agility track at White Dog Cottage. Now White Dog Cottage residents have the full SPA experience. Mhh.  I am not sure how I feel about this. On one paw I am so proud and thrilled and on the other paw, I am so jealous. Can one be happily conflicted?

Ok ok, I am bigger dog than that. Living with two leggeds occasionally rubs off. I am thrilled. Troop 955, THANK YOU for making sure that our White Dog Cottage residents waiting for forever families have something wonderful such as the agility track. Adding agility to one's resume can only up the desirability factor. And, honestly, you guys at White Dog Cottage are going to have so much fun! I bet Auntie Robin is thrilled. She is forever wanting us to exercise and be fit. Fitness as fun! Win-win!!!

I had to miss the celebration on Sunday. Babysitting momma can be a real PITA at times. But I take my job seriously enough to know... in sickness and in health... yada yada yada...means you have to stick around when they are broken. Can't just bury them at the bottom of the toy box and forget about them. Hooomans don't stay put. Mine don't, anyway. Although I have fantasized that I have located and removed momma's squeaker and I have placed her neatly at the bottom of the downstairs toy box...which happens to be shaped like a suitcase... and she gets accidentally mailed to ????  Never mind. I love you momma. Want to rub my belly? [dang dragon naturally barking... it picks up everything... got to be careful what you bark]

Oh, uncle Bob took some wonderful pictures on Sunday, you can see them here:

Oh one more thing, girls, you know, for many of us being rescued by TBFR was literally a real LIFE SAVING event.  Your gift will help some residents recover faster and be healthier and happier because sometimes it takes a while to find a forever family and now the can have fun while they wait.

Oh one more theng... Auntie Kim Mariano, smooches. I am not forgetting your part. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

'vie