Porch Potty Blog

Adventures are best when they’re shared, and who better to share them with than your ever faithful companion? There are so many things you can do, but you are always left with the concern: “Can my dog come too?” This is often one of the most difficult questions that pet owners have to constantly ask themselves. And the answer commonly leaves us looking for a different activity for both us and our dogs to enjoy.

Starting with the highest adventure, parasailing and paragliding can put the wind and fresh air in your faces as you soar high above the ocean or other types of landscapes. Lately, both activities have allowed both us and our pets to get into the air. While no company in the United States is readily equipped or insured, to take your pooch up in the air, many individuals have concurred that their pups also enjoy the feeling of the wind in their faces. After all, they do enjoy sticking their heads out of windows and enjoying the cool breeze. Places like San Francisco and Hawaii http://www.lifewithdogs.tv/2011/01/kui-the-paragliding-dog/ have become a hotspot for owners and their dogs to be able to take to the air and enjoy the sights and experiences. Because paragliding and parasailing can be performed from boats and in the right conditions, possibly many other environments, it is possible to find places where you and your dog can enjoy this type of adventure together.

Currently, there is no specifically manufactured harness available, but the practice has incorporated the use of sturdy units that support the dog’s chest, and then attaching them directly to your harness while they sit on your lap, much like the British pet lover Jimmy Rimsk has done in this instance:

http://www.metro.co.uk/weird/857601-forget-walkies-this-dog-likes-to-go-paragliding-instead. Custom harnesses have been constructed, and YouTube is littered with videos of dogs and their owners soaring the skies. As the trend catches on, we hope to see professional paragliding companies joining in on the adventure.

Achieving an extra bit of altitude might take you in a different direction. Have you ever considered exploring the mountains on a llama trek? How about your dog accompanying you on a llama trekking adventure? Unfortunately, the industry avoids allowing pets into their facilities, based on the fact that dogs and llamas don’t seem to get along very well. But that doesn’t mean you can’t experience an adventure that takes you into the great outdoors. Maybe your dog would like to go kayaking with their owners down a river. This is actually growing in popularity, not just because of the adventure, but because it can also help train your dog effectively. The Canine Center for Training and Behavior http://www.morefunthandirt.com/ is a unique school for owners and their dogs that incorporate the bonding process and the role it plays in healthy relationship development. Located in Austin Texas, this facility is dedicated to providing a natural and adventurous environment for dogs and their owners to share and develop. Amongst trail hikes and Yoga, the Kayaking experience seems to excel beyond the average experiences that dogs are used to.

For those unfamiliar with kayaking, it is a small vessel, normally seated with no more than two individuals. With the use of a paddle, you can control the direction of the kayak as it shifts and shakes with the current of the river. For your dog, this is an experience that helps them learn the art of balance and agility as they shift their weights to compensate for a change in direction. A recommended addition to the kayak is a shower or yoga mat for your dog to stand on, so they will have extra traction during the adventure. The cool water and adrenalin rush you get is extraordinary, and when combined with the companionship of your dog, it is possibly one of the most memorable moments you will experience with your dog.

Remember that adventures come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re sailing with the wind or with the river, the real adventure is that you get to share it with your dog. The world is full of adventure, and it only gets better when you can share it with your favorite companion. Whether it’s high up in the sky, or navigating the adventurous currents of the river, you can share an awesome experience with your pooch.

After some time of relaxing and enjoying an evening without my collar, it was time to get dressed. You might think I’d struggle at least a little bit, but I never do. I know I’m supposed to wear it because it lets everybody know where I belong. And wherever I go, there I am- with my faithful companion.

Unfortunately, that leaves me with a great concern about my new neighbor, Buck. It seems to me that if any dog needed to enjoy the company of a good companion, it would be him. So, that leaves me with only one choice- it’s time to come up with a plan.

Though I’ve been renowned for my creative abilities in the past, this would not necessarily be considered one of those moments. As soon as my collar was back on, I rushed to the back door and bound out into the yard. Of course, the brick was in the way, stopping me from reentering Buck’s yard, but that didn’t stop me from sticking my snout through the broken boards at the bottom.

“Buck! Hey, what are you doing?” I called out trying to be as friendly as possible. I’ve been alone before, and it’s one of the worst feelings that any dog can experience. I could see him in the shadows of his dog house, still lying there in his melancholy atmosphere.

That’s when the old man surprised me from behind. He scooped me back up and sternly told me not to be doing that. But, then he noticed Buck. He stared for a moment before calling to the somber fellow. Buck’s ears did make an effort to perk up as he emerged from his dark lair. After a few steps, his leashing became taut and he could move no more. There wasn’t even enough room for him to wander around his own yard!

The old man’s expression saddened at the sight and he let out a sigh as we made our way back inside. He set me down on the carpet and made his way towards the front door. I tried to go with him, but he told me to stay, so I did. I listened as his footsteps traveled down the walkway and towards the neighbor’s house. Seeing the opportunity to once again talk with my new friend, I rushed through the doggy door.

At the fence, I spotted Buck still standing at the end of his leash. I called out to him again, asking him how he was doing. But, he didn’t answer. Instead, he dropped back down to the ground and heaved a sigh.

That’s when I heard the voices. The old man and a stranger were talking about something that I couldn’t quite make out. A few moments later, their heads appeared over the fence line to my left. I could see the old man pointing into Buck’s yard and talking about “fleas” and “house.” The other man, much younger than my companion, simply shrugged and said something about “not enough time.” They talked a little more before the old man gave up, seemingly frustrated.

I made my way back inside to see what the old man was up to. But, he didn’t come in, at least not right away. Both he and Christy returned to surprise me with a little entertainment for the evening. We greeted each other. I wagged my tail while she patted my head. Then we all three went to the back yard to say hello to Buck.

I was far too short to peek over the fence, so I just used the cracks to see. Buck was up again, this time offering a slight wag of the tail to the appearance of a larger audience. All three of us talked to our new friend for a few minutes. Then, Buck’s owner emerged from his own home. He walked over to us and talked with Christy and the old man. After they’d spoken to each other in their language–a thing I’ve never imagined myself mastering, the other fellow released Buck from his leash and led him over to us.

I remember how excited Christy looked that day. She loves friends, especially ones with four legs, so I know Buck’s going to be happy now. And he is. I guess all it takes is friendly wag of the tail and the smile of a companion to really make the day memorable.

Everyone wants their dogs to behave. They take the time to train them and teach them the basics, like potty training. But there is a step beyond training. This is called behavior modification and it is the basis on which training is best developed.

Behavior modification is an extremely valuable tool that helps both dogs and their owners, providing a platform in which a dog can easily learn and develop future skills. The only problem is that behavior modification demands consistency, or else it will become counterproductive to the process. If you begin teaching using an outside source such as a trainer and then take them home and contradict or neglect what they’ve learned, your dog won’t be able to learn properly.

Continuing the behavior modification process

The first and most effective lesson you can learn is the act of teaching your dog how to learn. This process is simple, but provides the basis by which all other training is done. From here, it is your job, regardless of whether you have a trainer or not, to constantly solidify your dog’s teachings. Always start by isolating them from distraction. If they receive outside communication, even if another person is trying to help, it can confuse your dog and distract him from the lesson. Your own house is ideal for this, since the outdoors can produce numerous sounds and scents, and a new environment can be confusing and more interesting all on its own.

An ongoing experience

Even though you may be using an outside professional trainer, it is imperative that you continue the work that is being done. Like a student coming home from school, there is always homework that needs to be done and discipline that is required. Spend time affirming what they’ve been taught. Remember that young puppies can easily get bored or frustrated, so you may consider including games in the learning process.

Rewards are something should be given when they are deserved. This is one of the biggest problems in contradicting the learning process. Owners are renowned for giving their dogs treats, like rawhide or toys, without reason. While it may seem that a dog would definitely deserve it (they are the epitome of affection), it is definitely a contradiction to the behavioral training process. Rather than simply giving your dog a treat, have them give you full attention prior to giving it. Don’t be fooled by their supposed attention when they may likely have their attention targeted towards the treat. Have them “see” you first. You can confirm this by offering a variable command (change it every time so they don’t get used to one). When they succeed, give them the treat.

Behavior is forever

The reason these techniques must be practiced consistently is because dogs are renowned for developing habits. If you tell your dog to “sit” every time, they will always sit when you speak. This is a habit you’ve trained into them. While repetition is essential to mastery, you must include variables into the education process.

It is recommended that a quality training experience last no longer than fifteen minutes at a time. These increments should be scattered periodically throughout the day. During these training periods, incorporate a different task to learn each time or your dog may develop a habit out of the command.

This process helps to develop a dependency on you, rather than simply a reaction. This is the process of teaching to learn. While it may seem simple, it is the basic structure that helps your dog develop behavior modification in a positive light.

Training your dog to perform tasks is slightly different from behavioral training. When your dog develops the right behavior, training is as simple as instruction. This is where behavior modification plays an essential role in dog development. While classes and personal instruction can help, it is vital that you continue teaching your dog how to act and learn.

In order for your dog to succeed, you must be willing to teach and your dog must be willing to learn. This is a fact shared between every teacher and student. Behavior modification helps your dog learn how to learn for the rest of their life. But it takes the persistence and dedication of a good teacher to remain consistent during the process.

by Isabell Davila  http://www.flowerdelivery.net/7-plants-that-can-harm-your-pet/

Your pet is vomiting, seems lethargic, and has tremors. Most likely, your pet has been poisoned. Of course, seeking immediate veterinary care is the first step. However, in the aftermath of the situation, you might reconsider the plants you have growing in your yard or potted in the windowsills of your home. Many popular, beautiful plants that we keep around our homes are poisonous to dogs and cats. Our animals may have an uncanny sixth sense for some things, but they can’t always know what they shouldn’t eat. It’s up to us to decide whether it’s worth the risk of letting potentially lethal plants grow in areas accessible to our pets.

Lilies

Lilies are toxic to all your pets — dogs, cats, and horses alike. But outdoor cats may be the most prone to nibble on lilies, and even the smallest amount is poisonous. The toxin in lilies is soluble in water and deadly, although it isn’t known exactly what causes it to be poisonous. Consuming a tiny bit can cause kidney failure, as well as gastrointestinal and nervous system complications. What’s worse, every single part of the plant, including the pollen, is poisonous. Thus, if a cat or dog gets the pollen on their coat and then licks themselves, they will ingest the toxin. If your pet is left untreated for more than 18 hours after consuming parts of the lily plant, the mortality rate is 100%, so immediate veterinary care is essential. There is no antidote, but vets can monitor the gastrointestinal tract and keep your pet hydrated, and immediate treatment is usually successful.

Sago Palm

Sago palms are also known as cycads, and are very popular plants both standalone and potted. They also contain cycasin, a deadly toxin that causes liver failure. The toxin can be found in the seeds, fruit, and base of the plant and a dog can die by merely eating one seed from the plant. Within just a few hours, your dog will be vomiting, have diarrhea, and seem out of sorts. One-third of all dogs that consume parts of the sago palm die once the symptoms begin to show, even if given aggressive treatment. It takes about 24 hours for lab work to indicate abnormalities, so it can be tricky to diagnose, but you should always inform your vet of whether or not your yard has sago palms or if your pet likes to chew or dig up plants.

Azaleas

Both the azalea’s leaves and flowers are toxic to animals. The toxicity varies depending on how much of the plant is consumed paired with the animal’s weight. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has deduced the symptoms of poisoning to be vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, hypotension, and coma. If not treated, this could be followed by death. The cardiac glycosides and grayanotoxins found in azaleas are compounds that affect sodium channels on cell membranes. Treatment for azalea poisoning is the same treatment you would conduct for any poisoning: giving the animal something to help it vomit, giving it activated charcoal, and doing anything in your power to get the remaining azalea bits out of their system is the best way to handle it. Recovery may be lengthy because there are no complications during the time that the animal is expelling the Azalea, such as cardiac arrhythmias and aspiration pneumonia. Unfortunately, many dogs or cats can become addicted to the toxin in azaleas, which could easily become fatal. Removing this plant entirely from the areas that your pet is allowed to go may be necessary.

Daffodils

Daffodils are in the lily family, which explains why they are so toxic. All parts of the plant are poisonous, including the bulbs, leaves, and flowers. Moreover, if your dog consumes just one bulb, the consequences can be fatal. Even the water that the daffodil plant stands in, if ingested, can cause poisoning. A lethal dose for dogs is fifteen grams of this plant. Easter time is peak season for toxicity due to daffodil consumption, as spring brings on this seasonal flower. Even in humans, contact with parts of the flower can cause dermatitis. Humans have also mistaken the bulbs on daffodils for onion bulbs in the past, causing poisoning upon ingestion.

Begonias

The begonia plant’s juices and sap contain microscopic poisonous, needle-shaped crystals. All species of begonia are toxic to pets. If the animal consumes it, he will develop the common signs of poisoning, including drooling, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. However, treatment is typically not necessary unless an inordinate amount of its poisonous parts has been consumed, as this plant is one of the more mild poisonous plants. The tubers are the most toxic component of the plant. The toxicity of a begonia comes from its insoluble oxalates, which come from oxalic acid. Oxalic acid is one of the strongest acids found in nature. Although the rootstock, tubers, and roots are poisonous, the flowers of the begonia are edible and are still used in some cultures for their tart flavor. They may be used to treat fevers and syphilis, or in cleaning weapons.

Hemlock

Hemlock is highly poisonous to both people and animals. A biennial herb, Hemlock is in the parsnip family and is found typically in less tended to areas including roadsides, railroad tracks, ditches, and waste areas. The volatile alkaloids, conicine and gamma-conicine, are what give Hemlock its toxicity. An animal that has consumed Hemlock will become sick in stages — first, they will be anxious and uncoordinated, second, they become depressed, cold, and bloated. When lethal, Hemlock usually kills the pet with respiratory failure, between five to ten hours after symptoms become present. However, some pets may recover after feeling ill for several days. Hemlock thrives mostly in the spring, which is also when animals may find it to taste the most appealing. Drying out the Hemlock may lower the toxicity slightly, but not entirely eliminate it. If your pet consumes Hemlock and shows the signs of poisoning mentioned above, veterinary care should be sought. A fatal dose for a sheep is around half a pound, meaning a dog’s lethal dose could be less and a cat’s lethal dose even smaller.

Buttercups

Buttercups may be easy on the eyes, but not so good on the digestive systems of your pets. Buttercups have an acrid taste that most pets will avoid, but if your pet is just curious enough to chew on your plants or will eat anything without a care, keeping buttercups at bay might be your best option. If a pet has been poisoned by buttercups, they may drool, get blisters, undergo abdominal pain, and get diarrhea. The toxin within it, protoanemonin, is not very stable. Thus, if it is dried, the toxicity is significantly lower. If your yard has become overrun with buttercups and you’re trying to eradicate them, make sure to remove all parts of the flower, including the runners and roots. Buttercup can sprout from nodes along the stem and root fragments, so if you aren’t thorough when you get rid of them, they may pop right back up.

How strange that I should find myself out of the safety of my own yard. I turn back to peek through the small hole at the bottom of the fence. A rut had been dug which allowed one as small as I to barely squeeze through. While Christy was the neighbor to our left, I had never quite considered who was on the right. I’ve been so accustomed to chatting with Thieves and his critter loving owner, that the tall fence had completely blocked my curiosity.

After the last few days of heavy rain, the ground must have been soft enough for someone to dig up, and the old boards have weakened enough to break. Now that I’m through, there’s only one thing for a dog to do- explore.

The yard is somewhat overgrown and the ground moist from the recent showers. But, the smell of another dog is definitely in the air. Starting with the corner, I begin to encompass the yard, searching for the source. The tall grass and weeds cause my belly to itch. A few even prick me, leaving me with no other choice but to stop to take care of the nuisance.

At the far end of the yard, a small hut sits. Inside is a fairly sad looking fellow. His floppy ears droop just like his eyes. I stop and bark a greeting.

“Hey, how’s it going?” the droopy dog says in a dull tone.

“What are you doing? What’s your name? How come you’re in there? Why is there a hole in my fence? Why is your face so droopy?” I yip out with an excited wag of my tail.

“I don’t know,” he said, the sadness in his voice reflecting his boredom.

“You don’t know your name at least?” I pause midway through the question to scratch a growing itch that’s got my hind-quarters.

“These owners call me Dog, but my old friend called me Buck. I guess you can call me Buck, too,” he says as a stream of slobber drools out of his droopy expression.

“Well Buck, you wanna play?” I offer in an attempt to lighten the seemingly gloomy dog’s blight. I start with a little playful pounce, only to realize why Buck seems so gloomy. He’s tied up! I’ve never seen a dog on a leash without their companion on the other end. That’s enough to make any dog a little gloomy.

“Can’t. You go ahead and have some fun without me. I’ll just be waiting here, like I always do.” A sigh of boredom escapes the droopy Buck. It is a defeated sigh that I hate to see. Unfortunately, I’ve now run into a combination of events. While the fence is high, the old man is higher. He shouts out to me, calling me back to my own yard.

I squeeze back through the hole, the edge of the boards scratching the growing irritation that seems to be covering my entire body. The old man drops a brick in the small hole and warns me not to be going over there. I explain to him about the droopy Buck, constantly pausing throughout the conversation in order to give the occasional itch a good scratch. The old man notices the increasing irritation and provides a lending paw. I appreciated the help with a few licks, but the old man’s expression quickly turned as gloomy as Buck’s.

“Fleas.” That’s all the old man had to say for me to know exactly what was coming next. I tried to run, but I was already in the grip of the inevitable. Inside the house and into the bathroom we went, despite my pleas of mercy. I don’t like baths, but the old man insists.

I find myself in the bathtub with the roar of the water quickly filling the area. I don’t know what is scarier, the sound or the fact that the water may eventually fill up too high, and I might find myself struggling to get out.

Though the time is short, it always seems to take forever. The only good thing about baths is that I get a rub down afterward. The itch continues, but there aren’t any more prickling bites in odd spots. The old man sets the towel down on the ground, telling me to “dry off.” I do, giving a little shake, then rubbing my fur into the towel and carpet, making my best effort to get the water off me.

I can’t help but think about how gloomy Buck must be over there all by himself. Hopefully his companion will come back for him. Maybe now I can tell the old man about the droopy dog and his need for a little excitement. But in the meantime, I’m going to enjoy the company of my own companion, and a race around the house in celebration of my “naked time.” Oh yeah! No collar for now!

This first week of May celebrates National Pet Week, exemplifying the importance that our four-legged friends have in our lives. Whilst all pets are appreciated, those within the K-9 category share their own unique qualities that give them a special place in our homes and hearts.

While our affection and attention should definitely be a year-round experience, this week presses the importance of our obligations to our faithful companions that we love unconditionally. There are various ways we as dog owners can celebrate this unique week and really pamper our pups to show them how much we appreciate their companionship.

Responsible pet ownership

Perhaps the most important thing you can do is to influence the importance of responsible pet ownership. While most dog owners love and adore their pets, there are still many people out there that do not practice proper dog handling.

One of these is proper training. Consider the fact that many people attain a dog only to neglect their needs and essential training. They keep their dogs without ever teaching them social skills like the human and dog interaction that is necessary for safety and happiness. These are crucial for ensuring a dog’s effective importance in society, including the ability to not only protect you but help those around you. These key elements in a well-trained dog make for an excellent addition to the world we live in, providing a dog with a happy and purposeful life.

This means that we must educate others about dog week. Because the internet is so influential in this electronic age, we can take advantage of the various social mediums to effectively get the message across. Share, explore, and learn what everyone has to say about dogs.

The press release is one of the best things to post. Saying something that has a predisposition to influence can be a powerful tool in influencing proper dog care and even events. It only takes a few minutes to research and find some valuable information that could help your fellow dog owners, so make an effort to bettering the lives of dogs everywhere.

Party time

The event is what really makes your dog happy. A great chance to explore and enjoy the company of other dogs can ultimately be an effective event in your dog’s life. While your dog runs and plays, you can also utilize the event to share and incorporate other dog owners to help educate them on proper training methods and care-taking processes that can ease and even simplify their lifestyles.

Treats are a favorite for dogs, but always be sure that what you feed your dog is good for them. There are plenty of unhealthy and even dangerous foods for dogs like grapes and other fruits. There are even certain dog food products which have recently proven to be potentially harmful to our pets, so be sure you properly educate yourself before feeding your companion something dangerous.

Amongst favored treats are the homemade peanut butter and banana treats. Online sources can provide a definitive amount of treats you can make at home to help your dog celebrate an exciting event.

While dog parks are fun, be sure that you utilize flea and tick collars or powdered applications to help prevent the spread of any annoying insects and parasites. These precautions are not only friendly to our dogs, but also imperative in preventing the spread of diseases and even worms. Feces is renowned for its ability to spread worms through fleas, so in order to protect your dog and the companions of others, be sure you utilize flea and tick inhibiting products.

Take your dog in for a checkup

Because it’s not always an expense we can often afford, taking your dog to the vet is becoming an uncommon event. Unfortunately for our dogs, this can result in serious issues arising later on that we could easily prevent with a simple checkup. Consider your dog’s health and take them to the vet this week, if only to satisfy yourself with the knowledge that your dog is doing well and in good health.

Dog owners should help each other learn and grow through their own knowledge. As we interact, we can effectively become better pet owners, and will be able to provide the best home possible for our beloved four-legged friends that trust and adore us. Treat your pup especially well this week, because they deserve all the love and appreciation you have to offer.

Aside from baths, perhaps the most disliked events in your dog’s life are the trips to the vet. There they are in an unfamiliar place full of unfamiliar smells. Sometimes, they even have to get a shot or two to help get them better. But, it’s all part of dog care, and that means that it is essential that the utmost care be provided by your vet.

So, you must consider your vet just like you would consider your own doctor- or even your child’s pediatrician, since dogs are just like a kid to most of us. There are various factors to take into consideration, such as effective care and thorough knowledge regarding our beloved pets.

Interviewing your vet

The first few questions any loving pet owner should be ready to ask themselves and a potential veterinarian are: who does the procedures, how much it costs, and how long it takes. These facts are crucial to animal care and though they may seem unnecessary, they can provide the first bits of information you need to make the right decision.

Who is caring for your pet is always important. While many veterinary clinics have a public name, they may see multiple veterinarian doctors that move in and out of the facility. For a dog, familiarity is always a plus. Just because you go to the same vet clinic doesn’t mean that you’ll always see the same doctor. For your dog’s benefit, and your own satisfaction, you may consider a location that is frequented by a single individual. These can be more difficult to locate, but are often more rewarding, since they are able to handle your dog with familiar and frequent care that multiple veterinarians may not provide.

Cost is always an issue as well, especially since money is a commodity that many cannot afford to spend recklessly. Some veterinarian hospitals provide numerous commodities that your dog may not need, and there’s no reason for you to pay for them if they are going to waste. Be sure you research potential veterinarian hospitals to ensure you get what you need for what you are paying for.

Frequency is another topic that is vital to any dog’s care. While most clinics are open during business hours, finding a location that offers services after hours can be extremely advantageous. Always consider emergency care. This is vital to your dog’s well-being, especially since accidents can happen at unusual times of the day, or even in the middle of the night You want to be sure that you can expect someone you and your dog are familiar with to be able to ensure quality health when your dog needs it most.

Talking to the vet

Often, an interview with the vet may be required to get a feel for your dog’s ability to associate with their veterinarian. Inquire about your vet’s familiarity with your dog breed. Not all breeds are the same, some experiencing a unique array of habits, conditions, and even attitudes that your vet may not be that acquainted with. This will help provide a unique experience of well-being for your dog to ensure quality health-care.

Talk about it

Always ask around for recommendations and be open to new ideas. Never settle on the first name you see. It may take a few trips and a little time, but if you shop around for the perfect vet, you’ll be able to find the health care your dog needs. Start by choosing at least three different veterinarian locations that you are familiar with, and begin investigating each. Let your dog share the experience with you, because it will ultimately come down to how comfortable they feel with someone who is caring for their health.

For many new pet owners, the first trip to the vet will always be a surprise. They may find themselves facing a vet that makes radical claims or attempts to push an owner to make decisions they may not feel comfortable with (neutering or spaying are common). While their recommendations have some education behind them, be sure to research them for yourself and avoid making any serious decisions that will drastically alter you or your dog’s life on the spot. Luckily, there are various forums and websites that offer pet owners various recommendations from fellow pet lovers that have shared the same experience. Be sure you examine the facts for yourself before you let someone else make them for your dog.

A trip to the vet isn’t always something to worry about. Frequent checkups are recommended to ensure quality health and well-being for any and every dog. Just be sure that you know who you are seeing and that they know exactly how and when to take care of you beloved companion.

Not much has been going on lately. I chased my tail earlier. But that got old really quickly. I tried to get the old man to play, but he just wasn’t in the mood. I wrestled with his one loose sock, (the left one always seems to wander down and dangle when he’s been relaxing on the couch) but he wasn’t going for that. He quickly nudged me away and grunted as he pulled the sock back up his leg. It quickly slid back down, but it wouldn’t do much good to try again. He just wasn’t in the mood to play, but I was, and quite frankly, I’m bored out of my paws.

Normally, I would have proceeded to enjoy a frolic out in the yard. I’d enjoy some playtime with Thieves and then even some sunbathing might be nice, to finish an entertaining afternoon. But, that was all very difficult with the rain coming down from the sky. It’s been falling for several days, keeping both the old man and me cooped up inside. I’m sure even he would like to get out there and play in his garden or at least throw the ball for a bit. I know I would.

Not with all this rain though. Even when I have to take care of my regular business, the wet ground makes it hard to do much of anything. This has made me somewhat negligent of my duties, and I’ve been holding it for a little longer than I really should.

And now I’m sitting here at the window, looking out at the dark sky and rather dreary downfall. This leaves me struggling to decide if I really have to go, or if I can hold it for just a little longer. I study my regular trail, the grass a little lower where I would normally run through, and decide it’s far too muddy to make that attempt. The bushes close to the house have proven to be useful these past few days, even though it has proactively gotten wetter beneath their shelter. But, it’s better than getting soaked by the falling rain.

I get situated at the doggy door, studying my path to the bushes. It’s almost impossible not to get wet from here to the bushes, but if I stay close enough to the sides of the house and fence, I won’t be utterly soaked afterward.

I ease out into the rainy day, staying as close to the wall as possible. Here, the pavement puddles with cold water, which actually doesn’t feel too uncomfortable. It’s when I get into the grass that the mud and cold water start soaking my belly fur. I’m not the tallest dog, but I’ve always been afraid of heights, so being short is exactly where I belong. Unfortunately, when there’s rain amongst other obstacles, I tend to feel the blunt of an inconvenient situation. Like this moment for instance, I have to stop to scratch an itch that has suddenly formed where the water has soaked deep into my fur. I only give it a few swipes, since time spent out here will only result in a soggier situation.

Finally beneath the bushes, I sniff for a decent spot to do what I must, and the relief is refreshing, regardless of the muddy earth beneath my paws. When all is done, I peek out to plan my return journey: close to the fence and close to the wall to prevent soaking myself even more.

Then I spot the old man standing in the doorway, staring out into the dreary atmosphere. He doesn’t look happy about it either. Of course, he’s standing in the shelter where it’s still dry, so it shouldn’t bother him as much as it does me.

When I get up to him, I notice a towel in his hand. A game of tug o’ war, perhaps? Nope. Instead, I get something a little better- a rub down. The old man dries me off, scrubbing and scratching. He even rubs my paws down, getting the debris and mud out from between my toes.

When he’s done, the towel whips away to clear my view, and I notice the sun has decided to make an appearance today. Even the rain has subsided to a light mist. I can feel the warmth of the day revitalize the air, reminding me of all the fun we can still have if we hurry!

Something that never seems to get old to any dog lover is seeing their fellow dog owners enjoy the company of such a valuable companion. However, dog blogs never seem to be complete without an exotic picture that says: this dog is indeed unique. These simple pictures let us know that dogs around the world, whether they’re sleeping or running through the snow, are enjoying the time of their life. And that gives every owner the priceless feeling that we too can enjoy the time of our lives with our best friend.

Ready, Set, Action!

Amongst the variety of blogs, an all-time favorite is to have a blog that portrays your dog in action. Pictures have the awesome ability of catching our four-legged friends in motion, whether they’re playing or even eating a bowl of pasta, such as the unique http://dogseatingpasta.tumblr.com/ , that focuses on odd pictures of the cutest dogs enjoying a variety of this human dish. This of course is a favorite for anyone that has ever seen Lady and the Tramp. But, action doesn’t stop there, especially when your dog has seemingly taken on a few characteristics of their owners. Such sites as http://fuckyeahdogsoncomputers.com/ (the name is legit, even if it is a little vulgar) and the awesomely titled http://dogs-looking-like-people.tumblr.com/ really appeal to dog lovers, making you realize that having a dog that’s just like you are can be both silly and attractive.

The site http://cooldogs.tumblr.com/ is a favorite for putting our lovable friends in a “Too Cool” situation. Dogs with sunglasses- check. Dogs chilling in the car window- check. This site has exactly what any dog owner loves when they picture their own dog just being cool.

What they’re doing when they don’t think you’re looking

Of course, candid cameras often take the best picture. Remember that any faithful dog believes in the honorable law of: I’ll wait for you forever. So, to really display the depth of a dog’s mindset, the site http://dwfth.tumblr.com/ is dedicated to displaying exactly this particularly adorable quality that strengthens the bond between humans and their dogs, even if we aren’t always there to see it.

Seeing is breathtaking

Perhaps a favorite amongst dog owners is witnessing a dog with a view. Perhaps one of the most breathtaking sites that displays these beautiful shots that say more than a thousand words with each picture is http://dogsandgreatviews.tumblr.com/ . If you adore seeing dogs, and you love seeing them enjoy some exotic and beautiful scenery that enunciates their breed and origins, you’re guaranteed a great view on this blog.

Dogs and their expressions

There is also the natural expression that we love to see on a dogs face- more commonly the squishy face. One of these popular sites, http://squishfacedogs.com/ , is completely designated to flaunting the cuteness of the natural expression of many dog breeds. While not all dogs are naturally squishy faced, you may find yourself playing with your own dog’s face, giving them a massage and changing their expression, even if it turns out a little squishy.

The names we give dogs, and the names they give themselves

Naming your dog isn’t always as simple as it sounds. Some like to be exotic (Jayne Cobb, the regulator) while others love Deogee (DOG). With so many creative names that owners can come up with, sites like http://namesfordogs.tumblr.com/ have completely dedicated their blog to finding new and exotic names that you can vote on or get ideas from for your dogs. This blog really gives a dog owner the opportunity to be creative with their dog’s name, providing an extra bit of character to their companion’s title. But, just remember that while you call your dog one thing, they may be calling themselves another (Dante the Infernal House Runner).

Dogs and their companions

Of course, we can’t forget the pictures we love to take WITH our dogs. Many sites, such as http://cooldogs.tumblr.com/ and http://menandtheirdogs.tumblr.com/ love to display pictures of owners and sometimes other people posing with their four-legged friends. And what could be better than seeing dogs interacting with their companions. You get to see anything from a simple hide and seek game to a set of smiling faces (yes, dogs do smile, even if some don’t believe it).

Any owner knows that most dogs don’t like getting their picture taken. They turn away at the last second, or decide they want to play, rather than sit still. Perhaps this is what makes dog pictures a great and unique addition to our blogs. If you like dogs, and you love to see them in any situation from action to resting, be sure to check out some great pictures that will please any dog lover.

While the rest of the world has sped into the digital era, we’ve seen a growing demand for publicity on social media sites like Twitter and Facebook erupting with new faces and personalities. And, like their human counterparts, our dogs want a place in the public eye as well.

While blogs have been a great outlet for publicizing our favored friends and associates, social media has become a great source for really defining the personality of a dog and even providing a little insight into what they are thinking.

Dogs as entertainers

We’ve all seen dogs rise in fame, often maintaining their actual names in the movies they’re acting in. https://twitter.com/#!/cookiedabooboo is a well renowned dog actor, making appearances on such television shows such as Desperate Housewives. But to really give the dog a voice, this Twitter site is dedicated to providing a voice for Cookie and effectively creating a character that enjoys telling its owner what to do (which many of our spoiled dogs enjoy doing).

Oprah is the rather foul-mouthed advocate of rapper 50 cent, often holding nothing back when it comes to offering an opinion. But, this just goes to show that even dogs have a few rights that we humans take for granted when it comes to speaking our minds. You can find this furry and funny minded dog on Twitter as  http://twitter.com/oprahthedog. It’s definitely a site for anyone that enjoys a few laughs and entertainment.

Dogs in politics

One rare and rather surprising area to see a dog in is politics. While it’s a rather unique situation, dogs such as Sutter Brown have found their way into the top ranking official statuses of the world, and exhibit their profound desire to really press their views on life. Found at http://facebook.com/sutterbrown on Facebook, this four-legged politician really dishes out the facts and views regarding how a dog interprets the world, and provides plenty of insight concerning bone taxes and other doggy political processes. Combined with both humor and fact, this is a definite like for any dog owner.

Dogs represent: tumbler, schools, even blogs

Dogs are found in every aspect of life, even business and education. So, to provide a little doggy insight into these worlds, Tumbler has actually put a doggy advocate as a spokesdog for their business. http://tommypom.com/ is a site dedicated to the furry Pomeranian Tommy. Though small, this dog has a big voice, helping to endorse one of the fastest growing social media sites on the internet. Filled with pictures and blogs, you get a dog’s-eye-view of what it’s like working as an intern for Tumblr.

http://twitter.com/sullyburger is a site dedicated to the cutest of cute puppy mascots for the site Cuteness.com. This furry representative flaunts his cuteness to really provide the character that is needed to endorse a site that focuses on being cute. And what dog isn’t?

http://twitter.com/butlerblue2 is a Twitter site dedicated to the Butler University of Indiana, promoting the importance of education and its value to society. Full of school spirit, this bull dog is an excellent representative of determination and effort that is needed to accomplish any goal you set your mind on- for both dogs and people. He’s definitely something to like and admire, even if you don’t attend their school.

Dog’s life

We can never forget those that represent the everyday dog-life, which is where such sites have dedicated time and effort to supporting their four-legged friends like Rocky the Chihuahua. These tales tell of Rocky’s adventures with his companion, and while fictional, are actually based on the everyday events that this clever pup enjoys taking advantage of. And you’d be surprised at what dogs can really get away with when you spoil them. The blogs http://blog.porchpotty.com/category/the-adventures-of-rocky/ really give an exotic outlook on the world through a dog’s eyes as they interact with companions and friends alike. Rocky is definitely mischievous in real life, and definitely shines as a bit of entertainment for the everyday dog lover.

Another site that definitely says: I think like a dog, is http://twitter.com/mikeythebrat , who does indeed live by his name. Full of sassy quotes and some great humor, this Twitter site is a favorite if you want to put a few words in your dog’s mouth.

Throughout the internet, you can find dogs representing anything from products to politics, giving dog owners something to really enjoy through a slight bit of dog humor and some interesting facts. These sites really give an effort in creating a dog’s character and personality, allowing us humans to associate ourselves with some of our best friends in the world: our dogs.