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<title></title>
<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary/</link>
<description>Dogster diary for the dog </description>
<language>en</language>
<copyright>Copyright 2009 by  &amp; Dogster</copyright>
<pubDate>Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:53:27 PST</pubDate>
<generator>Dogster Pet-o-matic Gennie - http://www.dogster.com</generator>
<ttl>360</ttl>

	<item>
		<title>&quot;Westies Unite&quot; takes NYC!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//481798</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 14 Jul 2008 11:17:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//481798</guid>
		<description>As many of you know, we belong to Dogster group, Westies Unite. This weekend they held their 2nd Ann ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ As many of you know, we belong to Dogster group, Westies Unite. This weekend they held their 2nd Annual Meet and Greet.  It was a two-day event taking place in NYC and in Westchester.  There were about 30 Westies that took part in the events from Florida, North Carolina, Maryland, New York, New Jersey andConnecticut.  Though our Westies Unite's friend, Caffrey, could not make the trip from England, his Mom did!  Wexford and Sofia had the time of their lives!!!!!!!!!!!  They were SO well behaved, I was so proud of them.  Wexford walked around like he was the park security - sniffing, peeing, and relaxing in the shade.  He was also fascinated by the Westies wannabees that were there (Yorkies, Malteses and Papillons).  Sofia found two pups that she liked to hangout with, Maple and Maggie Mae.  Though Sofia was moody at times with Maggie Mae (some growls here and there while they were on leash), they were pretty much inseparable.
 
On Friday night there was a Pre- Meet & Greet held at the dog park in Ossining, New York. The humans BBQ'd and some of the dogs met.  The next morning started quite early catching at 6:45 am train into Grand Central Station with the hopes of making the today show.  We were there outside but could not get in close enough but we still had a blast.  Westies lining the barriers and many tourists opting to take photos of the cute LWD's.  Then we headed to Fishbridge Dog Park alongside the Brooklyn Bridge. This was the perfect little, cememted area with lots of shade.  The dogs got to know each other a little better here and met a couple of friendly pugs here too.  Then it was off to the South Street Seaport for some shopping and lunch.  We found a cute little doggie boutique called "The Salty Paw" and had lunch at an outside cafe with the dogs.  After lunch we headed to the piers where we all boarded a schooner and toured NYC for two hours - it was something I will never forget.  Twenty or so Westies on a cruise!  What a sight.  We docked at 5pm and made our way to Stone Street for dinner.  This street is lined with outdoor seating for various restaurants.  We all enjoyed the rest and good food.  It was now time to make our way back to Grand Central to catch the train back to Westchester.  Before doing so we walked around Times Sqaure with Caffrey's Mom.  This is something I never pictured Sofia and Wexford in the center of - but we were there and they did great amongst the crowds and crowds of people.  Their whites coats, now grey, showed that they were true New Yorkers!  
 
Sunday morning would start our 3rd and final day of the M&G.  We arrived at the Ossining Dog Park just after noon. The humans enjoyed some lunch as the dogs ran around and cooled off in the kiddie pool.  Mr. Maggie Mae built beutiful woodenbleachers qwith Westie cutouts on them!  Ten bleachers in total would seat the Westies for a group photo.  There was also an auction held to benefit Westie Rescue - where we raised $1,250.00!  Since the Westie benches were so beautiful, we decided to auction those off at the end as well.  We won one of the ten and we now have a nice momento of the weekend.  We finally got home at about 4:30 pm on Sunday and the pups were pooped to say the least.  I think they were happy to be back home but I know that they already missed all of their new friends, too.  
 
We hope you enjoy the photos from our Westie M&G weekend!

xoxo
Mom, Wexford and Sofia]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>My trip to the toy store</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//468651</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 8 Jun 2008 21:16:11 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//468651</guid>
		<description>Part of my birthday surprise was a special trip to the toy store!  Mom and Dad let me pick out any t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Part of my birthday surprise was a special trip to the toy store!  Mom and Dad let me pick out any toy that I wanted from the toy aisle!  I first sniffed my way over to the rope section and found one that I really liked. It was red, white and blue and had a tennis ball attached to the end.  That was a keeper.  Mom said I could have one more so I continued browsing.  Mom saw something that looked fun called "Wiggly Giggly".  She showed it to me and as she moved the box it made this really funny sound.  I immediately was capitvated by this unusual noise - I had to have it.  I couldn't wait to get home and play with my new toys.  I ignored the rope toy and let Sofia have that one, I wanted to Wiggly Giggly all to myself! I was on a mission to get to the center of it and find out what exactly was making that funny sound.  I was biting on it but Mom took away and said it's not a chew toy.  So, we played fetch with it for a little while.  She was worried I was going to tear a piece off and possibly swallow something, so the parents closely supervised me.  I love my new toys!  My 3rd birthday was pawsome!  

Wex]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>The Terrible Two's Are Over!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//468446</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 8 Jun 2008 11:47:08 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//468446</guid>
		<description>Yesterday was my birthday, I turned 3 years old! I am so grateful to all of my pup pals and to Dogst ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday was my birthday, I turned 3 years old! I am so grateful to all of my pup pals and to Dogster for making my birthday so special.  I loved all of the nice messages, special gifts, stars and rosettes!  I can't believe I'm 3 yrs old, time really does fly when you're having fun! It was a fun and very hot day. It was 95 degrees, so we had a few short play sessions in the yard with lots of water breaks.  Sofia is lazy to begin with but in the heat she wasn't too much fun.  She found a shady area and laid out, so she wasn't a ton of fun.  I got some new Merrick Flossies and my delicious and favorite Salmon dinner! Oh, it was so good. Mom and Dad are also taking me on an outing today to Petco so that I can pick out my own toys! I've never done that before. I can't wait!

Thanks again for making my birthday a special one!

Woof!

Wexford]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Recognize a GOOD, REPUTABLE Breeder</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//445186</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 4 Apr 2008 22:41:23 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//445186</guid>
		<description>I thought this was worth posting here on Dogster.  I found this on Oprah.com as part of the investig ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I thought this was worth posting here on Dogster.  I found this on Oprah.com as part of the investigation on puppy mills.

When choosing a breeder look for one who does the following:

1. Ideally, keeps his or her pets as part of the family. 

2. Encourages you to meet and spend time with your puppy's parents, and allows you to see where they spend most of their time. 

3. Area is clean and well maintained. 

4. Insists on meeting potential adoptive families. Will not sell their dogs to just anyone. 

5. Doesn't sell animals too young—sells puppies only after they are 8 to 12 weeks old, and 8 to 10 weeks old for kittens. 

6. Can provide references from other families who have purchased puppies. 

7. Keeps breeding dogs healthy, well fed, and well socialized. 

8. Provides professional veterinary care for all their animals. 

9. Performs health tests on fathers and mothers prior to breeding to ensure their puppies do not have genetic defects. 

10. Has a good relationship with a local veterinarian and can show you records of visits for the puppy. 

11. Bases breeding frequency on mother's health, age, condition and recuperative abilities. 

12. Does not breed extremely young or old animals. 

13. Discusses positive and negative aspects of particular animals and breeds with potential owners. 

14. Encourages multiple visits to meet the puppy. 

15. Will take back any of their animals, at any time and for any reason. 


Related Resource

Find more on Main Line Animal Rescue at www.mlar.org. 
Find more on the Humane Society of the United States at www.hsus.org. 
Find more on the ASPCA at www.aspca.org.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Oprah Show on Puppy Mills!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//444766</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 3 Apr 2008 21:08:13 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//444766</guid>
		<description>Taken from www.aspca.org/puppymills

&quot;On Friday, April 4, Oprah Winfrey is bringing to light the h ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Taken from www.aspca.org/puppymills

"On Friday, April 4, Oprah Winfrey is bringing to light the horrors of puppy mills to her millions of viewers. Oprah’s undercover investigator, Lisa Ling, went undercover into a handful of Pennsylvania’s puppy mills to expose the realities of this cruel industry. National attention to the realities of the puppy mill industry is long overdue! 

Thousands of puppy mills exist all over the United States, with particularly high concentrations in Missouri and Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The numbers also appear to be increasing in other areas, including upstate New York, Ohio and Oklahoma. Dogs rescued from puppy mills have been documented to exhibit a wide array of veterinary and behavioral problems, including severe malnutrition, rotting teeth and severe periodontal disease, extreme matting of fur sometimes leading to skin lesions, mange, flea, tick, and parasite infestations, and serious foot and leg injuries from living an entire life on wire mesh flooring. Female dogs in puppy mills are typically bred at every opportunity until they are physically spent and can no longer reproduce. Puppy mill dogs live out their entire lives in tiny enclosures, never having a chance to get out of their cages for exercise or socialization. Ling’s undercover investigation shows the horrors that these dogs must endure, day in and day out."
..................................................

For more info on puppy mills, please visit
www.PetShopPuppies.org]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Daily Diary Pick!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//430308</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 25 Feb 2008 22:04:12 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//430308</guid>
		<description>Dogster, thank you for choosing my diary as one of the &quot;Doggie Central Diary Daily Picks&quot;!  I first  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Dogster, thank you for choosing my diary as one of the "Doggie Central Diary Daily Picks"!  I first found out from my pal, Pippin.  He sent me a p-mail this morning telling me the news.  Yup, that means that Mom didn't even check her email first and read the email that Dogster sent her to tell her.  Instead she checked my p-mail first and found out from Pippin!  BOL  Silly Mommy. Thank you to all of my pup pals who sent me p-mails and even rosettes to celebrate this day.  Thanks again Dogster for another fabulous day!

O'Woof!

~ Wex

PS
I'm glad Mom changed my primary pic in time for me to be on the Dogster diary page!]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>My Mommy met THE DOG WHISPERER!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//426950</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 17 Feb 2008 21:16:52 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//426950</guid>
		<description>Mommy was at the Global Pet Expo in San Diego this past weekend when she met Cesar Millan and two do ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mommy was at the Global Pet Expo in San Diego this past weekend when she met Cesar Millan and two dogs from his pack, including his famous pit bull Daddy!!! She was so happy when she overheard at the tradeshow that he was going to be there. She was on the lookout but didn't see him. Then an hour later there he was!!! She jumped in line but was upset when she realized that she didn't have a camera or camera phone to get a picture. But a nice lady in front of her offered to take a picture for her! When it was Mom's turn and she finally met Cesar she said "It's a pleasure to meet you! I'm one of your biggest fans and I belong to your group on Dogster.com!" (Mom has to give Dogster a plug because she loves Dogster so much, too) Mom got Cesar's autograph and then that nice lady took their picture! We really hope that the lady remembers to email that picture when she gets back home! Shortly after Mommy was able to borrow a digital camera and she was able to get a few more pictures of Cesar and his dog Daddy. Hopefully, we'll have those pics sent to us soon so that we can post them on Dogster!

ETA:  Over the weekend Mom got the email that she was looking forward to all week!  It was from the nice couple that took her pic when she met Cesar Millan!  She was hoping they didn't forget or lose her email address, but they didn't. (We had ours paws crossed too!) What thoughtful people they were to offer to take Mommy's pic in the first place and then email her a copy!  So, I agreed to let Mommy post her pic in my primary spot for a day or two but not more than that.  Afterall, I have a cool St. Patrick's Day picture that I need to show off! BOL]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Our friend Mykie went to the Rainbow Bridge today...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//416399</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 23 Jan 2008 10:50:51 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//416399</guid>
		<description>Hi Pups, 

We were so sad to hear the news.  Mykie's Mom, Nancy, wrote an email that told us about ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi Pups, 

We were so sad to hear the news.  Mykie's Mom, Nancy, wrote an email that told us about her passing.  We wanted to share it with everyone.  Mykie lived to be 18 years old she was rescued from a puppy mill.  We thought in her honor we would share her story and maybe someone else would be inspired as our friend Nancy was to rescue a dog.

Mykie 1990-2008

This afternoon I had to make the decision to help Mykie to the bridge. She had a really bad night last night and did not eat this morning. I knew it was time. For those who do not know Mykies story. I was talking to Kathy one night in chat when she said she took in a 13 year old that was a mill breeder for 10 years and abused for 3. I am not sure why but my heart told me she was meant to be with me.  I flew a turn around to Houston on July 26, 1993 to pick her up. Her name was Lyka and I had Kathy call he Myka.  After she was with me a couple of days. I called her Mykie and her ears pricked up and her tail went up so I knew we had a new name. She was terrified of people and would not even go in or out the door if you were in the same room. It was obvious she had been kicked for not being house broken. Well DUH she lived in a cage for 10 years. She was not house broken when I got her. My dogs taught her to go outside, but not before I had to throw out my dining room and living room throw rugs. But those are just things. The first time she ran out the door between my legs almost tripping me was a thrill. It took a while but she learned to trust and when she did all she wanted was a gentle human touch. The first day she pranced across the yard with her head and tail up, I knew she finally had westitude.  She loved to sit in the recliner with me. She could not jump up but knew when she made the run across the floor and jumped that I would catch her and put her next to me. My dogs also taught her how to destuff and how she loved to rip up those stuffed animals. She would watch Marky chase the ball and then would run and get it so Marky would stalk her until she dropped it, She then got her own ball and would bring it back for you to throw it for her. She loved to play ball. Today her last day she took all the balls and hid them in her beds and behind the TV, I am sure she was hoping Marky would not be able to find them or playing one last game with Marky.  When she was exhausted and laid down Martin and Monte laid beside her. I am sure they all knew it was her last day with us, and they were saying goodbye. Mykie was special heart dog and I will miss her. RIP my special angel you were so loved by many.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Bee Gee has been adopted!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//388105</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 11 Nov 2007 19:28:12 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//388105</guid>
		<description>Our Westie friend, Bee Gee, that many of you have come to know, has found her forever home yesterday ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Our Westie friend, Bee Gee, that many of you have come to know, has found her forever home yesterday!  Her new family has also adopted another Westie pup from Westie Rescue Missouri (WRM) and named him Alexander.  We are so happy to hear  that TWO Westies found their forever home!  

For more information on how you adopt a Westie, please visit www.westierescueofmissouri.com]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Coolest Dog!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//380860</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 24 Oct 2007 21:15:31 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//380860</guid>
		<description>Mom says even if I don't win I'm still cool!  Do you think this photo is cool?  Vote for me if you d ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom says even if I don't win I'm still cool!  Do you think this photo is cool?  Vote for me if you do! 
 CLICK HERE: <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.dogster.com/show07/vote_pet.php?i=381013">Please vote for Wexford in the World's Coolest!</a>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>One Year on Dogster!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//363308</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 10 Sep 2007 20:46:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//363308</guid>
		<description>One whole year on Dogster! Can you believe it? The time just flew by. We have made so many wonderful ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ One whole year on Dogster! Can you believe it? The time just flew by. We have made so many wonderful pals here and learned a ton while having fun at the same time. As they say in Dogster land..."for the love of dog!" Arrooooooo!

Off to give out some rosettes...

Bark at you later, 
Wex]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>August 12, 2007: DOG OF THE DAY!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//350629</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 12 Aug 2007 17:15:46 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//350629</guid>
		<description>The first thing Mom did once she sat at her computer was go to Dogster.com, of course. She had 5 paw ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The first thing Mom did once she sat at her computer was go to Dogster.com, of course. She had 5 paw mails, which was slightly unusual to have so many. Mom learned from our pal, Zoe, that I was chosen as "Dog of the Day"! She couldn't believe it, so she went to the Dogster homepage and there I was smiling back at her. She screamed with such excitement, at first I didn't know what happened. Was it good or something bad? Sofia and I were so excited when we heard the news. Dad couldn't believe it either, he said "this is a day to celebrate!" 

Mom didn't know what to do first.  Was she going to write in my diary? Post in the forum? Post in "Westie's Unite" or in "The Celtic Connection" or send everyone an email with the good news?  Her dilemma was which one to do first, so to make it easy she gave me and Sofi a celebratory treat first, which was the right decision if you ask me! BOL  Then she proceeded to do all of the others!

Thank you so much Dogster for a great honor. So many pups chose to send sweet pawmails, pup pal requests, all kinds of rosettes and even several stars! You really made our day!

O'Woof!

Fellow Dogster, 
Wexford]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Ireland: Puppy Farm Capital</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//347504</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 5 Aug 2007 20:52:58 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//347504</guid>
		<description>Welcome to the puppy farm capital 
1 Feb 2004
The Irish Times 

By Karlin Lillington 

When th ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Welcome to the puppy farm capital 
1 Feb 2004
The Irish Times 

By Karlin Lillington 

When they raided the house, the dachshunds were everywhere – in sealed containers, closed boxes, dumped in a van, in stinking dark rooms in an unheated, derelict house, clumps of hair missing, ribs showing, infested with lice. 

Over a hundred little sausage dogs, adults and tiny puppies, were being “farmed” in County Tipperary. The story of last week’s raid by the ISPCA in conjunction with the Ulster and Dublin SPCAs was prominent in the news, triggering 5,000 compassionate calls to the ISPCA, offering homes to the dogs. 

But the miserable dachshunds are part of a grim industry that must rank as Ireland’s darkest, bleakest ‘agricultural’ secret. Not only are such farms not unusual, but, say international animal welfare authorities, Ireland is Europe’s – perhaps the world’s – puppy farm capital. Here, cheap, poor quality purebred dogs are mass-produced by the hundreds in cages, bitches bred and bred successively until they drop. Ireland also has the highest per capita rate of stray dog euthanasia in the EU, with 23,000 dogs put down annually. 

“What this is, is the factory farming of puppies,” says Alastair Keen, head of operations for the ISPCA and the man who closed down the dachshund farm. “These are immoral breeding operations.” He estimates Ireland has as many as 100 such operations, some with as many as 500 to 700 dogs. Closing them is an ISPCA priority. 

Ireland is a haven for puppy farms because not a single piece of legislation exists to control them or protect the welfare of the dogs, besides the Dog Act – intended for pet owners, not commercial operations that operate in a grey area of legitimacy. Nothing limits how long the dogs may be bred, or how many times. They can be kept in any enclosure; there’s no rule that they must have outdoor runs or – in the case of indoor breeds – that they be kept warm indoors. EU chickens have more rights; livestock farmers have more legal responsibilities. 

Until last month the ISPCA had only a single inspector (now there are five). As a result, says Keen, few puppy farmers (called “millers” in the US) have to fear a raid, and keep the dogs in dreadful conditions, often ill and unkempt and filthy in their own feces, held in wire crates or makeshift kennels in cold, damp farm outbuildings, some held inside in dark, windowless rooms. 

They are sold through brokers to pet buyers, at premium prices but always just below what reputable breeders charge, in Britain and North America, and to a lesser extent, Europe. Profits can be huge. 

Keen, who came from the RSPCA and who has a pet mongrel himself, knows of four puppy farms in close proximity in the Midlands, where he recently tried to close down the worst. Though conditions were grim, Keen can only act on clear examples of cruelty, and keeping dogs in what many would consider revolting circumstances does not, in Ireland’s unlicensed, unregulated system, constitute cruelty. 

“He has 500 breed dogs. I doubt any are vaccinated or have ever been seen by a vet. It’s a time bomb waiting to happen. Yet I had to walk away because there’s no ‘cruelty’.” 

“Ireland is synonymous with puppy farming. It is the most vile despicable trade in misery,” says one reputable dog breeder in Northern Ireland. “Here in the North dealers are bringing puppies from farms in the South to either sell here or take them by ferry to the mainland via Scotland.” 

One such puppy transporter is Irish farmer John Walsh, the man who was jailed for illegally importing sheep into Armagh during the foot and mouth epidemic, sheep that later were found to have the disease. 

In November he pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to 49 puppies, found in poor condition in his van arriving by ferry into Scotland. Nine needed emergency vet treatment. 

The BBC reported last month that raids had netted “hundreds” of Irish puppies in shipments of 50-100 at UK ferry ports, from Irish puppy farms comprising hundreds of dogs “kept in squalid conditions.” 

Reputable breeders in the US say brokers – middlemen who buy up the puppies for resale – regularly receive large shipments of  Irish puppies of breeds that are costly in the US, such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These dogs are shipped without quarantine requirements or scrutiny because Ireland is a rabies-free country. 

According to Gabriele Pollmeier, a US-based breeder who lived in Ireland for 10 years and is familiar with the system, “a fairly large number of brokers regularly bring [Cavaliers] in from Ireland, and sell them here via the Internet or the newspapers to unsuspecting buyers.” She has witnessed a shipment of 25 puppies at Atlanta's airport that were underage  and sickly.  

“What a sight. Poor things. They were on their way from a [puppy farm] in Ireland - had left Shannon that morning and were to fly on to Dallas to a well-known broker,” she says. 

Irish dogs are also used to stock US puppy mills because, unlike dogs that come from reputable breeders, they carry no breeding restrictions (a ‘neuter’ clause). US sources feel some reputable Irish breeders are unknowingly selling dogs to mills and brokers in the US, believing they are for American families. 

Says one US breeder: “Here in the Minnesota area Irish dogs have such a bad rap that if buyers find out your foundation stuff came from Ireland they class it with trash.” Another reports her friend’s sickly, Irish ‘champion-bred’ dogs bought from a puppy farm broker had worthless, forged Irish Kennel Club papers. Such dogs are frequently offered on US websites by known brokers who claim ‘Irish relatives’ send them the dogs. The trade is hugely damaging to the many reputable professional Irish dog breeders. 

 “The dogs that come from the farms are typically ill or inbred or behaviourally disturbed,” says Keen. With little contact with humans in crucial early weeks when socialization to humans is essential, animal welfare workers say such dogs end up difficult to housetrain and socialize, and then are abandoned, dumped in shelters and pounds (see accompanying story below).

Keen wants commercial operations to be licensed by the State, with clear rules on how dogs should be housed and maintained, and mandatory inspections. Reputable breeders say mass shippers of dogs should need vet clearances from a certified state vet. And auctions of breeding dogs should be illegal. 

Breeders in Ireland say the Irish Kennel Club could do more by publishing a regular gazette of IKC puppy registrations, which would reveal the farms and their bloodlines for buyers and sellers. Many US and UK breed clubs, as well as the reputable kennel clubs, do this. 

Keen says that during his time with the RSPCA, dogs they seized that came from puppy farms – even UK-based farms – typically had faked IKC registration papers. The IKC says it is aware of the puppy farm issue and fake registrations. 

"The problem is there's very little legislation," says press relations officer Wendy Jackson. The IKC would support a licensing and inspection system, she says. The club has only recently begun to computerize its registration records, which will help it identify possible puppy farms. But Jackson says it is not knowingly processing registrations for farmed dogs, and that it only registers a modest number of dogs annually. 

The Department of the Environment, under whose aegis the Dog Act falls, says it is in discussion with the ISPCA on steps that could be taken to address the farms. But like the Irish people, the Department seemed unaware of the scale of operations here. 

A real problem in Ireland is that many people “don’t see anything wrong with what the puppy farms are doing,” sighs one animal welfare worker who has seen the horrors inside the farms.  “Animal welfare in Ireland is quite behind the times. Just look at how many dogs we put down every year.” 

But that may be changing. The ISPCA just introduced a National Cruelty Helpline, which in January alone clocked 8,000 calls. But without greater legal powers, the ISPCA will have little chance of combating the misery of the puppy farms, and, for now, we seem content to turn our backs on thousands of small lives.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>If I wasn't a Wexford, what would I be?</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//333180</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 5 Jul 2007 20:10:11 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//333180</guid>
		<description>Mom and I posted in the Plus Fun thread called &quot;Re-name the dog before you&quot; and Dogsters re-named me ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and I posted in the Plus Fun thread called "Re-name the dog before you" and Dogsters re-named me "Chester", "Happy", "Skippy" and "Fritz"!  We think it's so much fun to hear what name other Dogsters think I "look" like.  What name would you give me?]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The dreaded trip to the groomer...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//325539</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 17 Jun 2007 18:44:04 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//325539</guid>
		<description>Hi Everypup!  Our weekend started off on the wrong paw as me and Sofi were in the car by 8:30 am on  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi Everypup!  Our weekend started off on the wrong paw as me and Sofi were in the car by 8:30 am on the way to the groomer!  Yup, you heard - the groomer!  I don't like going there at all. I get very anxious while I am there and I'm usually hard to work with.  Mom and Dad try so hard to find the right groomer, someone who is nice, patient and knows what they are doing.  Since we just moved to Westchester our Dogster pals Nelly and Barkley recommended Vinny.  We met Vinny and he was really nice, but that didn't make me any less nervous during bath time or drying time!  After a few long, dreadful hours of being shampooed, and brushed and clipped, finally the pawrents came to pick us up.  When Mom and Dad got there, they were so happy to see us and we were happy to see them.  They made a big fuss about how great we looked.  I  have to say, I did look pretty darn handsome.  Mom said we will definitely be going back to see Vinny so I guess my wishes of never going back to the groomer didn't come true... I just hope he skips the whole bath thing next time!

~Wexford]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Happy Barkday to Me!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//321512</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 7 Jun 2007 19:58:08 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//321512</guid>
		<description>Thank you for all of my barkday wishes, it was a great day!! Mom was home sick today too, so that wa ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thank you for all of my barkday wishes, it was a great day!! Mom was home sick today too, so that was nice of her to be sick just so she could stay home with me and the Sofaloaf!  She loves us sooo much!  The pawrents made me a delicious salmon fillet dinner.  They couldn't believe how quickly Sofia and I ate it up! Afterwards I got a barkday bone complete with a number "2" candle and a bunch of new toys!  

Enjoy the pictures! Time to go play!

Wexford]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>From Brooklyn to Westchester!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//314918</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 25 May 2007 13:19:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//314918</guid>
		<description>We are loving the burbs! There's lots of green - grass and trees and bushes, all things that we can  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We are loving the burbs! There's lots of green - grass and trees and bushes, all things that we can pee on! Such freedom. We have a nice big yard to run around in. We are still so shocked by our new environment, we can't even concentrate during a game of fetch! We wander around and chase after each other and even sneak out under the fence!! I have to admit Sofia was the brave one to escape first and then as Daddy chased after her, I went and snuck out into the oppostie yard (Mommy needed someone to chase after too!). The pawrents got a hold of us pretty quickly, it was fun while it lasted. About a week later, Sofia was compelled to do it again because she wanted to meet our new beagle neighbor! When she saw him, she got under the fence and when Mom opened the fence door in (another) panick to get her, I followed her out! So now we were both off the leash and outside the parameters of our new fenced yard, so Mom was freaking out even more! But everything turned out fine, even though Sofia never did get a chance to meet our new neighbor after all that! You'll see lots of new pictures on our page and I'm sure (I have that funny feeling) that Mom will be posting lots more...maybe even some new video!!

That's all for now. 
Lots of slobbery kisses, 
Wexford and Sofia]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'VE BEEN TAGGED...4X!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//313226</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 23 May 2007 20:33:14 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//313226</guid>
		<description>I've been tagged by Jelly, Daisy, Turbo and Matilda!

THE RULES: 

Dogs who are tagged need to p ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've been tagged by Jelly, Daisy, Turbo and Matilda!

THE RULES: 

Dogs who are tagged need to post these rules and 7 random facts about themselves in their diary! Then you need to choose 7 dogs to tag and list their names in your diary. Don't forget to send a pawmail telling them "You've been tagged!" (copy and paste these rules in the pawmail)

7 Facts About Me!

1. I was born in County Limerick, Ireland.
2. My 2nd birthday is on June 7th!
3. I love to play ball with Daddy!
4. I love chasing my tail!
5. I bark at dogs on TV, even cartoon dogs!
6. I like to pick on my little sister!
7. I'm single and looking!

And now I'm gonna tag...

1. Tot
2. Nelly 
3. Jake
4. Bailey
5. Sir Braxton
6. Maggie
7. Tallulah

Have fun pups!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A long, overdue update on my life!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//288851</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 25 Mar 2007 21:29:00 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//288851</guid>
		<description>Hello everypup!  I know, I know - we have been slacking in the diary entry department this past mont ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello everypup!  I know, I know - we have been slacking in the diary entry department this past month (Kiki and Tot, thank you for the reminder!)

I had a visit with the vet last week because I have a Histiocytoma!  That's a fancy word for a zit (that's what Mom calls it).  A Histiocytoma is a benign cyst commonly found in young dogs under 3 yrs old.  It was a teeny tiny zit on my back and within days got larger and bright red.  Off to the vet I went and that's when they shaved a patch on my back to take a better look.  I thought it was wonderful that they decided to point out this zit and let everyone in the world know that I was going through puberty!!  Thanks a lot guys!  The good news is, it's benign.  The bad news is I'll probably have this thing for 2 or 3 months. Before it goes away it will also get bigger, about the size of a quarter.  The vet said if it doesn't go away on it's own in 3 months time, they will have to surgically remove it.  Anyone got some Clearasil?  Just Kidding!

I also got some news about a week ago that we'll be moving in 3 weeks to Westchester, NY!  That's about 1-1.5 hours north of where we are now in Brooklyn.    I'm pretty excited about the move.  The best part is, we'll have a yard!  You see, in Brooklyn yards are pretty hard to come by, but now that we'll be pups in the suburbs, I'll get to run free in the grass and pee on trees in my own yard!  I am looking forward to that!  I'm sure Mom will post plenty of pictures then.

Speaking of pictures, I also learned today that me and Sof will be getting groomed on Friday!  Yikes!  I'm not too crazy about the idea, but I do need a haircut.  I know Mom will put some pics up as soon as we're back and looking snazzy!

Well pups, that's all for now.  Talk to you soon! 
O'Woof!
Wexford]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Tips on Buying a Puppy</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//269340</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 8 Feb 2007 20:05:14 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//269340</guid>
		<description>Following are some tips from the Humane Society of the United States on buying a puppy: 

*Never b ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Following are some tips from the Humane Society of the United States on buying a puppy: 

*Never buy a puppy from anyone unless you see where that puppy was born  and raised and the conditions that the puppy's parents are kept in. 

*Avoid puppy mills by buying dogs from local breeders or adopting from a shelter. 

*Learn about the importance of USDA licenses and purebred paperwork. 


When you've found a knowledgeable breeder, learn about their business history and practices: 

*The breeder should only breed one or two types of dogs. 

*Puppies should be kept within the home and not in outdoor kennels. 

*The puppies should appear healthy and happy. 

*The breeder is willing to show you where the dog is kept - should be in a clean, well maintained area. 

*You should be allowed to meet the parents. 

*A history of veterinary records should be provided. 

*Make sure you get a written contract and health guarantee.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>1,000 Pup Pals!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//265472</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 30 Jan 2007 19:34:33 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//265472</guid>
		<description>Whoa, this is a remarkable day!  We just reached 1,000 pup pals!  We are so lucky to have such great ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Whoa, this is a remarkable day!  We just reached 1,000 pup pals!  We are so lucky to have such great friends here on Dogster!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Good Pups Here at Dogster!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//259480</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 16 Jan 2007 21:24:29 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//259480</guid>
		<description>Hi everypup!  I met Trouble, a Wheaten Terrier, on yorkietalk.com.  We don't even have a Yorkie, but ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi everypup!  I met Trouble, a Wheaten Terrier, on yorkietalk.com.  We don't even have a Yorkie, but Mom joined so that she could respond to another post on there about my breeder!  After reading our post, Trouble joined yorkietalk.com to share his story with me!  You see, we both came from same breeder.  Mom was so sad to hear Trouble's story.  He went to the Rainbow Bridge on New Year's Day when he lost his battle with Renal Dysplasia at only 3 years old.

We invited Trouble to join Dogster and he did!  Meet our friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/455404/sniff">Trouble.</a> To make him feel welcomed, we started a thread in "Dogster Friendly" asking Dogsters for their help in welcoming him.  The response was overwhelming!  Within seconds pups were writing back!  So many pups were willing to help and they were all so kind!  They sent pup pal requests, bones,  rosettes and even stars!  It really meant so much to us!  Thank you all for being so terrific!

I love Dogster!
Wexford]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My First Date!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//253156</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 2 Jan 2007 21:30:34 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//253156</guid>
		<description>I went to a Westies Unite ice skating pawtee and Nola was my date!   I even brought her pretty red r ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I went to a Westies Unite ice skating pawtee and Nola was my date!   I even brought her pretty red roses and luckily she loved them!  We held paws as we skated and we even got a sled ride (check out the pic on my page, thanks Caffrey).  

It was such a wonderful day with Nola and all of my pals from WU. 

~ Wexford]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Christmas Fun!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//250435</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 27 Dec 2006 17:02:14 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//250435</guid>
		<description>This Christmas we celebrated in Massachusetts.  I had another one of those long drives that I can't  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ This Christmas we celebrated in Massachusetts.  I had another one of those long drives that I can't tolerate.  I get car sick and it is not fun!  Sofia had to be a show off and only throw up once, I on the other hand out did her by about 4 or 5 pukes!  After the first hour or so, I was a lot better and I slept the rest of the way.  We stayed at a really nice hotel, I liked it a lot there actually.  I got special Christmas stuffies on Christmas morning.  The whole hotel room was even decorated for Christmas - the carpet and couches were all pine green!  Very festive I thought.  Anyway, on the ride home, I knew what I was in for...well I thought I did.  I was so tired out from my long weekend and Mom was good enough to sit in the back seats with us this time and I didn't throw up at all!!!  Can you believe that?  ME, Wexford - NO puking!  Mom said her prayers had been answered!  It was so nice not being sick in the car.  I might actually get to enjoy our next car ride, I'm so excited!

Talk to you pups soon!
Love,
Wex]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Have You Purchased a Sick Puppy?</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//248539</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 22 Dec 2006 21:46:25 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//248539</guid>
		<description>Wexford's arrival story is all too common.  This is very important to me because I saw first hand wh ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wexford's arrival story is all too common.  This is very important to me because I saw first hand what Wexford went through and I can't imagine another pup going through the same.  I hope to inform potential puppy buyers of Pet Lemon Laws since most states only allow a 14 day window for veterinary reimbursement.  Please read <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.dogster.com/diary_page.php?pet_id=381013&entry_id=209943">"My Tail of Devotion for Wexford"</a>

In doing a lot of research, I learned that the Department of Agriculture and The Office of the Attorney General are the two agencies to contact to report a breeder or pet shop that sold a sick puppy.  A sick puppy might be one who has Kennel Cough for instance, which is highly contagious and could lead to more serious respiratory problems if left untreated.  More serious congenital diseases may also be present, Renal Dysplasia, which may be fatal.

If more people spoke up against these unethical breeders/dealers and pet stores, perhaps they would reconsider selling sick puppies.  Here are some illnesses and diseases commonly found in poorly bred pups.  The information in the  links provided was taken from www.peteducation.com

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Dogster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&cat=1622&articleid=727">Coccidia</a> 

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Dogster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&cat=1556&articleid=452">Bordetella (Kennel Cough)</a> 

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Dogster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&cat=1569&articleid=453">Legg-Perthes Disease</a> 

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Dogster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&cat=1569&articleid=457">Luxated Patella</a> 

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Dogster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&cat=1634&articleid=880">Renal Dysplasia</a> 

Contacts:
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Dogster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.agmkt.state.ny.us/contact.html">Department of Agriculture</a>
Lora E. Vincent, Program Manager
Pet Dealer Licensing
NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets
Division of Animal Industry
10B Airline Drive
Albany, New York 12235
(518) 457-7749
Email:  Lora.Vincent@agmkt.state.ny.us

This link here provides information about Pet Lemon Laws by State.
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Dogster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.stoppuppymills.org/consumerlaws.html">Consumer Protection Laws</a>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>*Star*</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//248014</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 21 Dec 2006 21:54:45 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//248014</guid>
		<description>Thank you to my pals Hanalei (aka Tot) and Makena (aka Kiki) for giving me my &quot;superstar&quot; status tod ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thank you to my pals <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.dogster.com/pet_page.php?j=t&i=241980">Hanalei (aka Tot)</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.dogster.com/pet_page.php?i=242080&j=t">Makena (aka Kiki)</a> for giving me my "superstar" status today!  What a nice, early Christmas present!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Yikes...a BATH!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//248005</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 21 Dec 2006 21:29:56 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//248005</guid>
		<description>Some of you may have heard about the traumatic experience I had a few weeks ago while being groomed. ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Some of you may have heard about the traumatic experience I had a few weeks ago while being groomed.  The groomer told Mom and Dad that I was a nervous wreck during the bath, I got a nose bleed (Mom is still suspicious about this one) and that she wont be able to groom me any longer because of this.  Mom was happy about that, they already decided after they dropped me off they weren't taking me back because they didn't like the mean lady!

Anyway, now that you know that story, you'll understand why I'm writing this diary entry..."Yikes...a BATH!"  Sofi got a bath tonight and from what I've heard she is great in the tub.  After Sofi was done, I was up next.  I hid behind the toilet and just sat there.  I was shaking'!  No more baths for me please!  Mom just let the water run and let me sit there for about 5 minutes.  She wet her hands and I started to warm up to her and that spooky bath tub.  She called me over nicely and when I was ready I slowly walked over to her.  She put me in and I was still frightened.  But, I have to say, Mom tried so hard to make it a positive experience.  What do you know?  It wasn't that bad!  I didn't like it, but I tolerated it.  I was really more scared than anything.  Afterwards, she took out that monster that makes noise and blows air, I think she calls it the hair dryer.  She held me nicely and dried my hair. My Mom loves me so much.  It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.  I hope my next groomer is as nice as Mom! 

I even got some treats when we were all finished!  OK, time to go nite nite.  

Love, 
Wexford]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>500 Pup Pals!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//244999</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 14 Dec 2006 21:33:04 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//244999</guid>
		<description>Wow, we've reached 500 pals!  Sofia and I are such lucky pups.  Thank you to all of our pals for bei ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow, we've reached 500 pals!  Sofia and I are such lucky pups.  Thank you to all of our pals for being so good to us!  

PS
Last I checked, I had one more pal than Sofi did!  Shhh...don't tell her!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A &quot;Short&quot; Nap!  BOL</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//237264</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 26 Nov 2006 19:08:11 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//237264</guid>
		<description>Mom and Dad came home today from one of my favorite stores, Target!  I knew they got us something (t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and Dad came home today from one of my favorite stores, Target!  I knew they got us something (they always do) and I was right, new beds for us!  We went through 2 beds in about a month because Sofia had an accident on each of them!  Can you believe that?  Not once, twice!  (For the record, I never peed in my bed.)

Our new beds look nice and comfy, but there's only one minor problem, they are a little too small for us Westies.  The bed is 20" and I'm 18", so it's a tight fit.  I guess if I curl up into a ball I won't have any problems.  Sofia is a little smaller than me so she should be fine.  Don't they know I'm a big boy now?

Hmm...maybe Sofia will ruin these too and we'll get new ones!  For now they will do...Mom said she'll see how we do with them, if not she'll donate them to the local humane society.  OK, time to go play...]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Happy Thanksgiving!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//236127</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 23 Nov 2006 19:14:58 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//236127</guid>
		<description>I hope all of my pals had a very Happy Thanksgiving.  Last year I got some turkey and I was hoping I ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all of my pals had a very Happy Thanksgiving.  Last year I got some turkey and I was hoping I would get some again this year.  Mom gave us some of our regular kibble instead!  What is she thinking??  I couldn't believe she was being so mean.  I could smell it and we wanted some!  So, I waited and waited before I even touched that boring dry food.  Sofia didn't know any better so she ate her dinner right up.  I could tell Mom wasn't giving in, so I decided to eat my dinner.  When Sofia and I were done, that's when Mom said, "OK time for some turkey!"  Did I hear her correctly?  I was getting TURKEY??  She put some in my bowl and boy was it was delicious, even better than I remembered!

I just have one request, can someone please tell Mom that turkey isn't just for Thanksgiving?  Thanks!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Two bones are better than one!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//233816</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 17 Nov 2006 22:44:19 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//233816</guid>
		<description>Mom came home tonight with some shopping bags and I saw one from my favorite store - Petco!  Oh boy  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom came home tonight with some shopping bags and I saw one from my favorite store - Petco!  Oh boy I was so happy!  We followed Mom in and waited patiently, but she put all the stuff away and we got nothing!  We ate dinner and we were on our best behavior (we thought maybe this would change her mind).  So we waited and we waited, what is she doing to us?

FINALLY, she got the bag out again and she called us over.  I told Sofi, I knew we were getting our new toys tonight! Mom said "sit" and we sat extra perfect, this was gonna be good.  She handed each of us this funny looking reddish bone, she called it a Booda!  What a funny name I thought, but it smelled delicious so I didn't care what she called it.  I ran off to my favorite spot in the living room and layed with my new bone.  Sofia took her's to her favorite spot under the dining room table.  I chewed some and it was gooooood but I had to save some for later.  Along my search for a secret hiding spot, I noticed that silly Sofia left her bone unattended, so I swiped it!   TWO bones for me!  Wow, this is my lucky day!  Before I had the chance to enjoy one and hide the other, there was Mom again with that camera...she blew my cover!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Is this what big boys do?</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//233414</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 16 Nov 2006 21:33:10 PST</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//233414</guid>
		<description>On our walk this afternoon, we went all the way around the block where I peed and pooped as usual an ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On our walk this afternoon, we went all the way around the block where I peed and pooped as usual and Sofi just watched (as usual). She hasn't gotten the hang of this yet.  You see, we have the best of both worlds and she doesnt even know it!  We can go (do our business) at home on our wee-wee pads AND when we go for walks outside!  I do both because I'm so smart.  Sofia just does it on the wee-wee pad, when will she learn?

Anyway, back to my story.  Once we walked around the whole block and we were almost home, I passed one of my favorite trees and I LIFTED MY LEG to pee for the very first time!!!!!  I looked up at Mom and Dad and they just stood there!  They didn't even congratulate me on my manhood!  Instead they looked like they just saw an alien! I don't get 'em.  Isn't this what big boys are supposed to do.  Geez.  I wish they'd look at Sofi like that when she goes on the wee-wee pads.  Silly girl! What I'm trying to say is, I'm a BIG BOY now!

Time to go practice being a big boy...
~Wexford]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Woo-Hoo Jelly!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//223827</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 24 Oct 2006 21:16:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//223827</guid>
		<description>Our pal Jelly is &quot;Dog of the Day!&quot;  What a Dogster honor!  We are so happy for you!  

Make sure y ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Our pal Jelly is "Dog of the Day!"  What a Dogster honor!  We are so happy for you!  

Make sure you tell Jennifer how special she is, so she doesn't get jealous because her little sister is getting all of the attention!

Congratulations!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Our trip to &quot;Diamond Collar!&quot;</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//219731</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 14 Oct 2006 15:54:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//219731</guid>
		<description>We went out for a nice walk today on this brisk fall day.  We went to a cute little doggy store call ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We went out for a nice walk today on this brisk fall day.  We went to a cute little doggy store called "Diamond Collar."  We met the owner's Shih Tzu, Gizmo.  Gizmo is a cute little guy, only 6 months old.  Boy did he like Sofia!  Sofia just ran away from him, she didn't want anyone interrupting her shopping!  I picked out a new green Puppia harness and matching leash and Sofia picked out a pink one of course.  We played in the store for almost an hour.  It was a lot of fun.  Mom and Dad bought us Dogswell Mellow Mutt treats too (Do they really think I should be more mellow??)  When we left we got some free Wellness Well Bites samples  to take home!  You can never have enough treats!  We got our treats when we got home and now we are wiped out!  Zzzzzzzzzzzzz...]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>My First Star!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//219446</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 13 Oct 2006 18:46:26 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//219446</guid>
		<description>I received my very first star today from a very special pup pal, Mia Luna.  I will cherish this gift ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I received my very first star today from a very special pup pal, Mia Luna.  I will cherish this gift forever!  

Mia also gave another special star to my little sis, Sofia.  Muchas gracias, Mia!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My Tail of Devotion for Wexford</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//209943</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 21 Sep 2006 18:13:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author> ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/381013/diary//209943</guid>
		<description>We were set on a West Highland White Terrier.  We started our search for breeders in the area.  We w ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We were set on a West Highland White Terrier.  We started our search for breeders in the area.  We were completely against buying from a pet store and did not want to support any puppy mills by doing so.  It was very important to us to find a breeder and do things the right way.

We searched online and came across a breeder in Long Island, Marie Larkin of Celtic Irish Puppies.  Her family raises Westies in Ireland.  Ireland supposedly has very strict kennel club controls over the breeding of dogs, one reason why the country is rabies free.  I emailed her with some questions and set up a time to visit with the pups - she had one female and one male at the time. 

We purchased the puppy on the second visit.  We decided to get the male puppy and because of his Irish heritage named him Wexford.  That very night he had this dry, hacking cough.  I immediately called the breeder with questions and she said to give him some Children's Robitussin.  She also as part of the health guarantee arranged to have discounted veterinary care provided by her vet, Dr. Weinstein of Howard Beach, NY.  The Vet claimed that Wexford was in perfect health and it was just a cold, "as kindergarten children often get" and prescribed an antibiotic.

After about 7 days on the antibiotic, Wexford was not improving, his condition was actually worsening.  We went back to the vet and he prescribed yet another round of antibiotics.  By this time, things seemed really shady.

We decided to get a second opinion.  It turns out Wexford had Kennel Cough and an Upper Respiratory Infection.  He was put on antibiotics and a decongestant.  He was also receiving nebulization treatments with Albuterol up to 4 times in one week.  At 10 weeks old, he spent long days at the vet's office.  After diligent care and several more rounds of antibiotics, including one of the strongest, Baytril, Wexford finally showed signs of improvement. 

<b> Under the New York State Pet Lemon Law, you have 14 business days from the date of purchase to have the animal deemed unfit for sale and either return the animal or get reimbursed for veterinary expenses. </b>Wexford was deemed unfit for sale.  As a result, Marie Larkin was sued and ordered by the Small Claims Court of Hempstead, NY to provide reimbursement for veterinary expenses.  

I would NOT recommend purchasing a puppy from Marie Larkin of Celtic Irish Puppies (also known as Puppies By Marie.)


Here is a helpful link:<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Dogster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.stoppuppymills.org/consumerlaws.html">Consumer Protection Laws</a>]]></content:encoded>
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