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<title>Harry Barker and the Furever Home</title>
<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home</link>
<description>Dogster diary for the dog Jack</description>
<language>en</language>
<copyright>Copyright 2013 by Jack &amp; Dogster</copyright>
<pubDate>Sat, 18 May 2013 17:53:20 PDT</pubDate>
<generator>Dogster Pet-o-matic Gennie - http://www.dogster.com</generator>
<ttl>360</ttl>

	<item>
		<title>DIARY OF THE DAY????!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/819124</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 9 Mar 2013 17:34:31 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/819124</guid>
		<description>Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh! My diary was Diary of the Day! I don't even know what that means ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh! My diary was Diary of the Day! I don't even know what that means...did they pick one day or all of them? I have to figure this out. In the meantime, I have to compose a really gripping, amazing and totally readable diary for today since clearly the reason they picked ME was because my diary is totally readable, amazing and gripping. RIGHT? It's not like it's just some randomly generated thing, pfft! 

Hmmm. 

Hmmm....well....I....

I got nothing people. 

Total diary block.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Let's Celebrate!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/818228</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 1 Mar 2013 08:49:39 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/818228</guid>
		<description>Today is March 1st. And it also happens to be what Louie and I call his Happy Happy Day! 

It's no ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today is March 1st. And it also happens to be what Louie and I call his Happy Happy Day! 

It's not the day he came to live with us. It's his birthday! Well, as close to it as we can get since he doesn't seem to remember his actual birthday and that's the day the shelter says he was born. 

Today, I will be making a white rice and chicken cake for Lou (shhhh, don't tell him, okay?) and presenting it to him with a grrrr grrrr grrrrrroooowooo expressing my best wishes to the best little (but bigger) brother in the universe!

Happy Happy Day Louie!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>OH MY GOSH, LOUIE IS THE DOG OF THE DAY!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/817390</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 22 Feb 2013 09:06:07 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/817390</guid>
		<description>I'm so excited today for my little, bigger brother Louie who is Dogster's Dog of the Day today!!

 ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm so excited today for my little, bigger brother Louie who is Dogster's Dog of the Day today!!

I know this means a lot to him. About five years ago, we were taking a stroll together and he mentioned two things he really wanted to do in his life. One was a two week backpacking trip in Nepal. The other was being Dogster's DOTD! 

Louie and I both feel like we haven't spent enough time recently on Dogster with our old buddies, so hopefully we can find more time in our busy schedule of perimeter securing and garden plant approval to be here more often. 

Right now, he's so excited that he's literally bouncing off the walls (I locked myself in the closet with my laptop to avoid being injured, don't worry about me!) and yelling, "LOUIE BE DOG OF THE DAY! FEEEEED LOUIE COOKIES! KING LOUIE! DOTD LOUIE!" 

So, three cheers to King Louie, and to Dogster and all our buddies who are so rad!

(Hey, Lou, next stop...Nepal!) 

-Jack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Well this sucks....</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/714981</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 15 Mar 2011 13:36:34 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/714981</guid>
		<description>I guess I need to learn to read directions better. I recently wrote a post (see below) that honored  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I guess I need to learn to read directions better. I recently wrote a post (see below) that honored my little (but bigger) bro Louie Louie, but I accidentally saved it to my account rather than published it. So without further adieu, a very belated Birthday Wish for Lou Who....

***********************************************************************************************

Hey, y'all!  Long time no woof. Today is my bigger little bro's birthday! He's the big 0-4 today and even though I wasn't too thrilled when he showed up on our doorstep lo those many years ago, I sure am happy he's my bro now. Lou, you're fun (when you're not biting me or stealing my stuff/food/bed) and I love playing with you anytime, anywhere. We make a good duo, right? Here's to many more years of fun brotherly love, kiddo.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Love,
Your Big Little Bro, Jack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Tagged....by Brutus!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/703480</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 15 Dec 2010 21:11:49 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/703480</guid>
		<description>Well, Louie and I tried to duck and dodge, but Brutus tagged us! (Oh Brutus, you sure can run fast!) ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, Louie and I tried to duck and dodge, but Brutus tagged us! (Oh Brutus, you sure can run fast!)

So, tag, we're it!

Whats your name?

Hmmm..."Jack." I think. It might also be "Uh oh."

Any Nicknames?

Snack. Jackie Jack. Hairball. Eyes. Muppet face.

Whats your favorite toy?

Without a doubt, my orange Rogz bone. They don't make 'em anymore, so my mom stocked up on several dozen. But guess what? I don't want any of 'em. Just my one, grody old half chewed up orange bone.

Your favorite treat?

That's a toughie. Anything that resembles chicken. I'm also partial to rice. And occasionally my mommy gives me plain pasta or a small piece of egg or cheese.  I had a cracker today. That was good. Basically, I take after my dad and if there's a green veggie in my bowl I don't really want to have anything to do with it.


Were you from a rescue, breeder, etc? 

I'm not sure where I was from ORIGINALLY but somehow I wound up on the streets and ended up in a shelter at the ripe old age of 2 months. That was kinda scary. But it all worked out well......


Do you love Dogster?

Let me think....YES!!!!! 


AROOOOOOO!!!!!!

All right buddies, I'm gonna be tagging you, start runnin'......]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I HAVE NEWS.</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/674017</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 27 May 2010 19:36:54 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/674017</guid>
		<description>Well, I have an announcement. Yesterday was a big, big day for me. It started off as a regular day.  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, I have an announcement. Yesterday was a big, big day for me. It started off as a regular day. Breakfast was uneventful, then I had my morning walk and poop...everything seemed to be in order. 

I arrived at My Doggie Daycare Place (aka Jackland) at approximately 8:30 a.m. My father dropped me off. Everything seemed exactly as I left it. 

But little did I know something would happen approximately 3.5 hours later that would be SO EPIC it would change my life forever. 

Something that in a bazillion years I'd never considered. EVER.

That's right, people. I went in the pool. 

Now, I'm not going to lie. I didn't exactly jump in of my own free will. My auntie Jamie was working that day and she vowed to get me in the pool this summer. I had not heard this, obviously, as I would have NEVER let her get within a 20 yards of me ever again.....but she caught me unawares. 

She dunked me in and pretty soon I was flying! Well, sort of. I was swimming. SWIMMING, PEOPLE. SWIMMING. ME!!!!!

Apparently, I am an excellent swimmer. I just sort of went with the flow and all the girls who work there were, like, totally impressed with my doggie paddle prowess. Also impressed were the girls of our species, who I *think* thought I was a stud muffin for going in and being all brave and stuff. And they liked my style. My freestyle. 

My only concern, and I did talk to mom about this, is that next time I would like some trunks. Maybe board shorts would be good for me. Because, see, when I got out of the water, I was all wet and my fur separated all over and dripped and the girls, they could see EVERYTHING. Which was very embarrassing for me. I ran under a deck chair. 

But aside from THAT whole thing....

I SWAM. LIKE A FISHIE. IN DA WATER. 

How ya like me now????]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>This Might Be The Best Thing Ever.</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/666679</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 15 Apr 2010 18:35:24 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/666679</guid>
		<description>Today, I have a bit of a serious but uplifting diary entry.

Proof that some dogs just need to be  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today, I have a bit of a serious but uplifting diary entry.

Proof that some dogs just need to be given that chance when everyone else has given up on them or turned away.

This is dedicated to all my friends who were sprung from the shelters by their moms and dads, and all those who are still hoping to find their forever homes. 

http://maniacworld.com/rescued-an-hour-before-euthanasia.html]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Best Wishes for Django!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/661082</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:18:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/661082</guid>
		<description>Hey guys,

There's a great little doggie here named Django who has been diagnosed with a brain ste ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hey guys,

There's a great little doggie here named Django who has been diagnosed with a brain stem tumor.  His peeps are making a long trip with him to get him treatment.

I know he's trying so hard to get better and his people are probably beside themselves with worry right now, anticipating his treatment and hopeful for his recovery.

If you can, take a minute to encourage all of them over at his page. 

http://www.dogster.com/dogs/1118703

He's a real nice pup and maybe if we all think really, really good thoughts for him he'll get better faster!

AROOOOO!

Get well, Django!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Happy Birthday, Lou Ball</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/658069</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 28 Feb 2010 21:15:59 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/658069</guid>
		<description>Louie, my crazy (big) little brother is three. 

Sigh. 

They grow up so fast....I remember when ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Louie, my crazy (big) little brother is three. 

Sigh. 

They grow up so fast....I remember when he was just a young pup, toddling around the house, making all sorts of new discoveries. Mostly involving his teeth and my tail. And then MY teeth.

But I got to love the ol' lug and here he is, a whopping three year old MAN. 

Oh, how time flies. Happy Birthday, Louie Louie.  You crazy old coot....]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>It's My Annifursary. Again.</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/651893</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 30 Jan 2010 07:58:08 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/651893</guid>
		<description>It's been four years since I came to my furever home. Where has the time gone? It just flew by!

I ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It's been four years since I came to my furever home. Where has the time gone? It just flew by!

I have many happy memories of my early days here with my peeps.

What I remember most is that they were just SOOO cute. I wanted to stay up all night just playing with them and looking at them, but I knew they needed their rest.  After all, it was a huge adjustment for them having me in my new home.

But every time I looked at them, I just sighed. They were so sweet, making sure I had enough food and water and being concerned about me. It's as if they had these little thoughts forming in their sweet heads. I could almost SEE the thoughts formulating. "Did he poop and hour ago, or was it longer than that?" "Is he just sniffing because he's sniffing, or is he about to pee on the floor?" Awww, happy times. 

Over the years, I've had some wonderful times with them and my RaRa and RaMa. And then my brother Louie came along and (after a short period of adjustment on my part) the fun REALLY began.

So far, it's been a blast. I've had some not so good times (BITTEN EAR! SURGERY! WART!) but I don't like to dwell on it. Mostly because I can't remember any of it. 

I get lots of walkies, lovin' and yummy food from my peeps. They play with me, check my feet for burrs (BRRRRRRS! Hate em.) and I get to play with Louie all the time. I have a safe, warm bed to sleep in at night and all the toys a dog could want.

Life is GOOOOD.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>MOSTLY FUR: My 2009 Recap</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/645494</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 29 Dec 2009 19:19:06 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/645494</guid>
		<description>Well pups, it's that time again. Another year passing us by.  It seems like just a little while ago, ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well pups, it's that time again. Another year passing us by.  It seems like just a little while ago, I was reminiscing about 2008. My how time flies when you're on dog years. 

Anyhoo, a lot of stuff happened to me in 2009.  Louie and I had some adventures and a LOT of fun together. I had some stitches in my lip. Phooey!  I had a major owie on my ear when someone bit me. That was awful. It hurt bad.  Louie and I won prizes for most original costumes as our daycare's Halloween party.  I went as a JackBerry phone and Lou was an i-Bone. Get it???!! I spent some quality time with my grandpawrents and got lots of lovin' from them. My mom took me all over town with her. My dad gave me lots of hugs. And I ate chicken.  Wow, except for the stitches and ear thing, 2009 was grrreat!

I'd like to take a moment to wish all my doggie and human friends a wonderful, happy, healthy and bite-free 2010!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>MY EAAARRRRRR!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/632553</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 2 Nov 2009 10:10:57 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/632553</guid>
		<description>Ugh, someone bit my ear.  And now it's infected and swollen up and I have to take icky bitter pills  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Ugh, someone bit my ear.  And now it's infected and swollen up and I have to take icky bitter pills that they try to hide in chicken like I'm not going to notice them. And my face hurts. And I want my mommmy! Waaaaaaaah!

Sigh. Well, it's not all THAT bad. I'm getting better, but man. This whole thing just sucks. 

On the bright side, it's my BIG baby brother Louie's Annifursary today. He's been in the family for two years. That's two years less than ME, if anyone is counting.....

But he's the best brother ever in the history of little brothers.  And I totally love the guy, even when he's standing on my head (waaatch the ear, Louie....watch it.)

So, Happy 2nd Annifursary To Lou Lou! I love you, big guy!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'm Four!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/628560</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 16 Oct 2009 20:58:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/628560</guid>
		<description>Happy Birthday to MEEEEE!  Jack here. Just wanted to let all my fur friends know that I'm finally a  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Happy Birthday to MEEEEE!  Jack here. Just wanted to let all my fur friends know that I'm finally a MAN.  I'm four!  As of yesterday. Or the day before. Or maybe today. But arrrround sometime this week for sure, I am FOUR!

That's 28 in doggie years, so I'm well legal to drive and go into bars and stuff. Not that I ever do. Because Miss Thing always has me attached to the leash and she won't let me go in. I TRY but she always wins.

I sorta thought when I grew up to be a man I'd be taller. But I'm still the same size I was when I was 11 months old, give or take a few centimeters.  My beard is pretty much the same, so that's not any different there....

But it's great to be a man.  A big, strong four year old man.  Sayonara Little Boy.  I'm a man. 

You heard me.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Governor Schwarzengger, You Can Just Scoop My Poop!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/597277</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:23:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/597277</guid>
		<description>Friends, in California, we have a big old meanie running our state.

He wants to save money by sho ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Friends, in California, we have a big old meanie running our state.

He wants to save money by shortening the amount of time us dogs and cats can stay alive in overcrowded shelters.  This might be his worst plan, yet.

Regardless of what side of the political fence you're on, I think we can all agree that shortening our already-short time in the shelters from a measley six days down to JUST THREE is going to result in a catastrophic rise in deaths of healthy, re-homeable animals in California.

Not to mention those sad souls who get separated from their families while their moms and dads are frantically looking for them - a process that can take a day or two in and of itself in larger cities with more than one main shelter.

This also is one of those backward ideas that ends up saving NO money. The cost of mass killings is high in both man hours and medical product purchases.  The amount of money saved  (if there even IS any saved) would be quite small.  Something like our governer giving up his salary for one year might end up with more return on the dollar than this crazy scheme.

Please, PLEASE take the time to tell Schwarzenegger it's NOT OKAY WITH YOU to kill healthy animals in an attempt so save money. 

GOVERNOR Arnold Schwarzenegger 
State Capitol, Sacramento, CA 95814 
Phone: (916) 445-2841 
Fax: (916) 558-3160 
http://gov.ca.gov/interact#email]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Shout Out!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/565678</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Mar 2009 15:46:08 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/565678</guid>
		<description>I just wanna give a shout out to my Big Little Brother, Louie, who turns two today.

Way to go, Lo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I just wanna give a shout out to my Big Little Brother, Louie, who turns two today.

Way to go, Lou-Ball!  You know me and the peeps love ya somethin' fierce.  Here's to many more years of Trubble and Chasing and Growling.

Happy Birthday!

I love you, bro.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I was tagged!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/555694</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Feb 2009 08:18:32 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/555694</guid>
		<description>Yep, it's that time again. A taggin' has occured. I'm afraid I've had quite a delayed reaction to it ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yep, it's that time again. A taggin' has occured. I'm afraid I've had quite a delayed reaction to it, so I apologize to Dylan who tagged me.

Also, most of my pup pals have already been tagged, so the tag stops here, so to speak. I'm like a pair of Hanes. Get it? Tagless? Hahahahahha! But, if you see this and want to do it, then by all means, consider yourself indirectly tagged.

Okay, so the deal this time round is:

List Seven Things about yourself that other pups don't know about you. 

Hmmm, okay, here goes:

1.)  I can do patty cake with my mom with my nose. Mmmhmm, yes I really can.

2.)  I bark at other dogs when I'm on the leash or in the car. Why doesn't everyone know I just want to play????

3.) I'm afraid of my water bowl.

4. ) Even though I pretend he's the first sign of armageddon, I do love Louie very much.

5.) My very favorite people food is a tie between white rice and a strand or two of angel hair pasta. My eyes bulge out when I see those foods in my general vicinity.

6.) I graduated first in my puppy class. No, really, I did. I won the 'best trick', the 'sit off' and the 'best stay.' Well, the Best Stay category was a tie with a Wheaten Terrier.

7.) I love getting scritches from my grandma best of all. She's a really good scritcher.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>It's My Annifursary! Again.</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/554748</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 29 Jan 2009 11:12:58 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/554748</guid>
		<description>Jack: Well, it's been three whole years today since my peeps sprung me from puppy prison (the shelte ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Jack: Well, it's been three whole years today since my peeps sprung me from puppy prison (the shelter) and brought me home to live The Good Life.

Jack's Mom: Yep. Three, fun filled years, kid.

Jack: Yep. While I'm eternally grateful to them, the truth is, I can hardly remember my life before. And, that's the way (uh huh, uh huh) I like it. (Uh huh, uh huh.)

Jack's Mom: I like that you can't remember the bad times!

Jack: I have to say I had no idea I'd have it so good. Food, love, warm beds all over the house. Walkies. Play session, a basket of scrumptious toys.  I have it pretty good. What on earth did I ever do to deserve that?

Jack's Mom: Nothing.

Jack: What?!

Jack's Mom: Let me clarify: all dogs deserve that. Of course, your dad and I think you are wonderful, sweet and a very, very good boy.

Jack: It's all about MEEEEE!

Jack's Mom: Yes. Yes, it is. Happy 3 Year Annifursary, Baby Boy.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Happy Howl-o-days</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/543143</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 09:00:10 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/543143</guid>
		<description>Christmas has come and gone.  Hannukah is coming to a close.  In a few more days, it will be 2009.  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Christmas has come and gone.  Hannukah is coming to a close.  In a few more days, it will be 2009. 

I don't think another year has gone by this quickly for me. Perhaps it's because I turned three this year, but it seemed like this one went fast.   When I look back on this year, there seems to be so much packed into it.

First, the biggest development was the dubious arrival on the scene of Louie.  Ah, Louie. That loveable springloaded stick of doggie dynamite.  When he first arrived, I couldn't help but think I'd seen him someplace before.  That's probably because they took me to meet him at my old prison, the shelter, before he came home. We got along fine. We played in their play yard there, and he only bounced on my head once or twice.  He was cool and deferred (if, only for a few seconds) to my adult dog sensibilities when I put him in his place.

I think he was very happy to be in a home where he got people to pay attention to him, feed him and talk to him.  Also, he liked to play. A lot. And, play,and play, and play.  A LOT.  I can't help but wonder if I was that obnoxious as a puppy myself. I'm sure I wasn't. Ultimately, though, I grew to love the big lug and now I want nothing more than to hang out with Lou.  My main man.

Other highlights in my personal 2008:  I went into Williams-Sonoma with my mom and spent half an hour being cooed over by the laydeez.  I let my hair grow out. And, I got the shortest cut of my entire life.  I was good.  Louie and I had fun at the club.  Someone bit me on my cheek.  I went to the beach and ran in the water.  Mom gave me a blueberry.   I let Louie sleep on my bed with me. I made friends with a cat.  Mom fixed my fish. Dad came home for work. A LOT. Mom took me to Coffee Bean quite a bit more than last year. I was good, except for that one time with the beagle. We won't talk about that. Mom still has coffee stains on her jeans and she says they won't ever come out.  I say, blame the beagle.  We were there first.

I wish all my friends and their families a happy, healthy 2009. May it be filled with love, treats and the adventure of finding something dead in the backyard.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>JACK'S NEW RULES</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/538280</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 14 Dec 2008 18:01:46 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/538280</guid>
		<description>Okay, so y'all know I love answering questions on Dogster Answers. 

In all fairness, I should rev ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Okay, so y'all know I love answering questions on Dogster Answers. 

In all fairness, I should reveal that I do have my mother help me with the tough questions. Things that deal with potty training issues, for example. Sorry, can't remember that far back. So, mom tackles those tough questions.

Most of the time, the questions on Answers (hey, funny!) are usually great questions from well-meaning owners. Questions that either I or my mom had at one time, or that we  wonder about,too! It's a great place to learn.

An awful lot of questions have been frustrating, though. Questions like, "Hey, y'all, my dog's tail just fell off. What can I do to avoid taking him to the vet?" 

Or, "So, this is the 27th time my dog has bitten the postman. Are they going to take my baby away from me? What can I do???? I'm desperate!"

Wow, people. It sure sounds like you need a recap on the rules. What rules, you ask?  (And, I'm so glad you asked.)  Why, Jack's New Rules, that's what!



- Be prepared to support your dog financially.  Honestly, this sounds harsher than it really is. And, I don't mean you have to be wealthy to own a dog.  Of course you don't - most don't go on to college.  But, do keep in mind you have to feed him. Every day. For the rest of his life.  Oh, also, we like toys.  And, we tend to chew them up and you have to buy new ones. And, if you don't, we'll start in on your shoes and handbags. So, get the toys.  Also, sometimes we eat the toys and we need to go to the Doggie ER.  And, that costs money. Which if you don't have, could cost us our lives. And, then you'll be really sad and cry. 

JACK'S NEW RULE #1: Before you get a dog, do a budget and make sure you can afford basic food and normal vet visits.  Having some extra money stashed aside for emergencies is a great idea in general.

- Sometimes, we get sick or injured.  Guess what? You peeps gotta take us to the vet. Minor injuries can turn major and no attempt to self treat should be done unless you REALLY know what you're doing. And, by that, I mean, you're a vet.  Anyone else needs to get their dog an appointment with one. The sooner you take the dog in, the better chance he has for a good outcome.

JACK'S NEW RULE #2:  Take your dog to the vet for anything you'd take a two year old child to the doctor for, and with the same urgency.  

- Dogs don't do stuff out of spite. Ever.   That peeing in the living room at night?  It's not because he's mad at you for not giving him your leftover baked potato. It's because, despite what you WANT to think, he's not housetrained! And, guess what else? It's YOUR fault, not the dog's.  Go back to square one with the house training.

JACK'S NEW RULE #3: Patience and consistency are the keys to training. Denial never trained a dog, yet.


-Dogs don't speak English. We speak Doggish. Which is mostly eye contact and body language with the occassional auditory yelp.  When you teach us commands in English it's a little bit like you learning Swahili from us.  Only, forget that you even know what Swahili IS and you're getting close.  Changing commands, talking to us like we know what you're saying is not going to work. Not EVER.  

Treats? That, we understand. Use treats when we're doing something you LIKE and something you WANT us to do.  You'll be suprised how fast we catch on to what we're NOT supposed to be doing and how good of a motivator those treats are. Much better than yelling.

JACK'S NEW RULE #4: Praise and reward can work wonders in the right direction. It's only counterintutive if you don't appreciate how much us dogs want to please you.


- Dog's don't generally do stuff "out of the blue" one day.  See an aggressive behavior like growling or avoiding eye contact and bristling when Auntie Sue comes by for a visit?  Guess who shouldn't be surprised when Auntie Sue's hand goes missing one day? YOU. There were signs probably for years beforehand.  Signs. Yep. Like, growling, snarling, avoiding eye contact and bristling.  Some dogs bite when confronted and scared, but chances are, you ignored signs of aggression or didn't realize what you were seeing.  

JACK'S NEW RULE #5:  Watch for any signs of behavioral changes or aggression and deal with them before they cause potentially tragic results. 

-It's up to you people to make sure us doggies understand what you want from us.  If something you're doing with the training isn't working within, say, seven to ten days...if you're not truly seeing ANY progress, it's not working. As a rule, if your dog learned to sit in three days but you've been trying to teach him to not jump up for three months, you're doooooinnnng it wrong.  Give up on that particular method and try a new approach.  The bottom line here is that your dog CAN learn. He WANTS to learn.  You need to be the person who figures out how to get through to him in a way that he can understand.

JACK'S NEW RULE #6: Dogs adapt. So should you. 

- A puppy isn't just for Christmas. Or Easter. Or Valentine's Day. Or Arbor Day......People, you've heard it all before. Adorable puppies purchased for the holidays and come February, the shelters are packed.   This is a rule that applies to any dog at any stage of life. As dogs, our owners are our WHOLE WORLD.  If we are parted from you, it's incredibly, horribly painful for us.  It's a tragedy and our world, our head, our hearts are turned upside down.  Sometimes, circumstances cannot be avoided. Things just get bad sometimes. But, please, please try and remember that we're totally dependent on you and totally in love with you. We need you.  More. Than. You. Will. Ever. Know.

JACK'S NEW RULE #7: A dog is for life. 

- Us dogs have seen it all. Trends come and go. We still stay dogs. Know why? We know a secret you guys sometimes can't figure out: 

It's all about the individual. A dog's theme song is, I Gotta Be Me.  No trainer of the month, technique of the month, is going to work on every dog. Far from it. A smart owner takes common sense training and behavior tips and advice and works them into their own routine in a way that works for their own dog. Got a dog who is terrified of the crate? Guess what? Nothing says you have to crate train her. Not all dogs are alphas or wanna be alphas.  Not all dogs have the same learning curve.  And, those trainers you see on tv having the dog whipped into shape in 10 minutes flat? Okay, that can happen. But, remember two things: 1) At the end of the day, it's still television and 2) Never underestimate the power of a novel person interacting with a dog.   I could come over and maybe have the same results. The real work starts when the camera is off and everyone goes back to their routine.

JACK'S NEW RULE #8 : One size does not fit all. Adapt your training to your dog's ability and needs. 

And finally:

JACK'S NEW RULE #9: I really like chicken.


So, that's about it. In closing, I'd like to say that we dogs ask very little from you peeps. A warm bed, food and some affection earns you a lifetime of love and loyalty from us. One harsh word can linger forever or some of us more sensitive types, but we're always willing to let bygones be bygones if you put in the effort.  Dog ownership is a lot of work, sometimes. And, it can be an overwhelming responsibility other times. But, so is any partnership.  

Love your dog.  As much as he loves you.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Louie Louie, Oh yeah....you gotta go.</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/526340</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 10 Nov 2008 21:19:43 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/526340</guid>
		<description>I joke, I kid. I kid......He can stay.  Louball has been with the family for a whole year, now. A YE ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I joke, I kid. I kid......He can stay.  Louball has been with the family for a whole year, now. A YEAR.

I can hardly believe that. It's a whole third of my life I've known this crazy guy, now. At first, he was not exactly someone I wanted near my peeps or in my house(s).  He was boisterous, obnoxious and he kept biting me and smacking me around all while trying to "play." Tell me I wasn't that terrible as a pup! 

Anyhoo, he learned the ropes fairly fast and pretty soon we were brothers from other litters. Cool, huh?  He's a good guy, Lou.  He's fairly brave and he likes to play. What could be better in a brother? 

Lou wore a plastic red cowboy hat for Halloween and won a contest at our doggie athletic club for funniest costume. Ha!  Little do they know he wears it around the house when nobody is looking and pretends he's Shane. 

So, anyway, the prize was one whole day at the club for FREE.  And....wait for it......waaaaaiiitttt.....also, a B.A.T.H.

Hahahahahahhahahahhahahahhahahahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahhahhhahahahahahahahahahahhahahahhahahahahahahah.

Hooooo, oh, man, I can't breathe.  Wait, wait, hahhahahahahahahaahhahahahahhahahahhahah.  Srrrrrrsly, it's poetic.

Oh, my stomach hurts from laughing. Oh, my god. 

Anyway, if you're reading this buddy, hahahahhahaha, hope you have a great time!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>It Was My Party and I Barked Cause I Wanted To....</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/518469</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 20 Oct 2008 21:28:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/518469</guid>
		<description>Sorry to have deprived you of a new diary entry, dear readers. I realize it's been a while since I u ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Sorry to have deprived you of a new diary entry, dear readers. I realize it's been a while since I updated, but you see, I've been quite busy since my last entry.  Chasing things, securing the perimeter of the homestead, knitting new bobble hat for winter and also keeping my head-dancing brother, Louie, in line. 

But, I wanted to take a moment out of that busy, busy terrier schedule to say hi to all my pup pals and pawesome friends!

My birthday was just this past weekend and my family graciously feted me with a lovely party yesterday!  I knew something was up when mom and dad began to furtively hide some of my toys. They always seem to do that just prior to my brother making an appearance.  And, when they put the birthday scarf on....well, I knew something was gonna go down.  And, soon.  So, I stood by the window to await my birthday surprise.  And, wait I did. About 20 minutes, which in dog minutes is like 130,977 minutes, as you well know.

Eventually, grandma and grandpa arrived with that gem of a non-blood related sibling, Lou Lou.  And, he was wearing, of all things, a birthday hat!  He's nothing if not ready to party at any moment, that loveable heathen.

In they came, bearing a large bag of gifts and hugs and kisses all around!  Mom made a deeee-licious cake out of white rice and Wellness kibble, complete with on-fire wax sticks (What in the world all THAT is about is yet another human mystery best left unknown, methinks.)

After Lou and I played and played, we had to wait for the peeps to eat their smellicious dinner and then we had our "cake."  Lou, in his own special way, felt it was all for him, somehow.  Each of the toys I was given found their way into his mouth, or he tried to assault me with them.  But, I paid no attention last night; it was my birthday celebration, and I was in a good mood.  Not even head dancing or thigh biting could bring me down...and really, he's not so bad.  You know, for a brother.  I just waited it out; after he left, I arranged all my toys on the living room floor without worry that they'd be eaten or turned against me as deadly weapons.

Tomorrow, we are going to daycare while our moms eat something together (perhaps the are sharing a Kong?) and I'm looking forward to seeing him again. He must be growing on me.

And, thank you to all of you who wished me such wonderfully happy birthday wishes. I'm three, and I'm feeling all 21 years of it. But, I'm blissfully happy.  You know, in between being worried about someone breaking into the house, and all that.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>When the Chicken Had Eyes</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/436315</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 12 Mar 2008 09:59:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/436315</guid>
		<description>Hi, all!  Jack's mom here.....

Jack is busy building a detailed miniature of a historic house in  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi, all!  Jack's mom here.....

Jack is busy building a detailed miniature of a historic house in Brussels. (My dog speaks Nerd, what can I say?)

Folks, I'd like to take a moment out to talk about the unsung hero of dogdom. Yes, I'm talking about the stuffed animal dog toy.

Jack's first stuffed toy was a fuzzy orange basketball.  He loved that ball and it remains intact to this day.  His second toy, a round, overstuffed terrycloth chicken with large, bulbous eyes met a much less pleasant fate.

Jack was given this toy on his first day with us.  He immediately grabbed it from my hand and pranced around the kitchen with it in his mouth, shaking it and throwing it in the air.

Within an hour, the first eyeball had vanished, only to re-emerge from Jack's mouth whole, but a little worse for the wear. Not to mention soaking wet.

Over the next week, the second eye was worked on, as well as the firey red felt wattle, and the orange beak.

It is the second eye that still haunts me. It glared at me for two long weeks, a mixture of seething anger and questioning innocence (Why?WHY?) 

Soon, the eye was completely white. The "iris"  had been quietly dispatched in the garden and the entire chicken was covered in seemingly strategically placed smears of dirt and grass stains.  What was left was a macabre blank white eye, which gave the impression of staring straight ahead, but at the same time being completely eerily present and aware.

One morning, I awoke to a spitting sound and saw Jack spitting out the red wattle.  It was then that I knew the eye's days were numbered.

One night, after a fortnight of completely ignoring the terrycloth chicken, Jack sat up from his bed and walked over to the toy basket. He plucked the chicken from its hiding place under the basketball and a large fleece bowtie and started spinning it around by the eyeball until the chicken flew across the room. 

Stunned, Jack appeared glued to the floor, his teeth slightly parted, with a terrycloth white eyeball between them, some uneven strings and a small tuft of stuffing hanging from his parted lips.  

His eyes darted back and forth between the floor where he was standing, the spot where the chicken landed and my eyes.

I took the eye from him so he wouldn't swallow it and he never looked at the chicken again.  He'd done what he intended to do; his job was done. From the moment that chicken was given to him, he  was on a mission to take the eyes off.  Nothing more, nothing less. Everything else was pure folly.

Stuffed animal dog toys. The unsung heroes of the dog toy world. Here's to them.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Mom Has Kennel Cough!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/435441</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:47:22 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/435441</guid>
		<description>Well, at least that is what I think she has. She's been coughing a lot like I did when I first came  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, at least that is what I think she has. She's been coughing a lot like I did when I first came home.  And, she's been very tired and hanging out in bed a lot.

The upshot is that I've been spending loads more time with my DADDY!  Daddy, daddy. Daddy, daddy, DADDY! I cannot stress enough, my friends, how much I love my DADDYYYYYY! He's been taking me for my morning walkie and even feeding me my breakfast.  Then, at night, he takes me for my evening walk while mommy rests.

Mommy has been extra-cuddly lately.  I think she feels kinda crummy.  I know I did when I had kennel cough.  

I feel badly for her, but there's no WAY I'm catching that bug again.  I've been wearing a surgical mask around her when she's not looking.  As soon as she falls asleep, the hand sanitizer and mask come out and I spray alcohol on all my toys, too, just in case.  I was thinking of calling up grandma and asking if I can come and stay with her until mom stops being all germy, but I don't wanna impose.  

And, anyways, the longer she's sick, the more daddy time I get! Wooowweeee!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BRO!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/431994</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 1 Mar 2008 10:27:30 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/431994</guid>
		<description>Hey, everyone!  I'd like to give a bark out to my little bro, Louie Louie since today is his birthda ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hey, everyone!  I'd like to give a bark out to my little bro, Louie Louie since today is his birthday!  

He's the big 01 today!!!!

Yahooo for Louie Louie! 

Hey, Louie, if you're reading this, Happy, Happy Furry Birthday to you, little bro.  You deserve lots of hugs and kisses and TOYS today.

Aroooooo!
Big Brudder Jack]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Psssst....Yeah you.....come here.  Little closer......</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/424558</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 11 Feb 2008 23:17:05 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/424558</guid>
		<description>I got a secret.  I don't want it spread all over Dogster or anything, so keep it hush-hush.  Okay, h ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I got a secret.  I don't want it spread all over Dogster or anything, so keep it hush-hush.  Okay, here it is:

I like Louie.

SHHHHHHHH!  What did I just say? Don't tell anyone! Keep it under the radar.  I don't want anyone finding out about this.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>TWO FUN FILLED YEARS!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/414883</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 19 Jan 2008 14:50:27 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/414883</guid>
		<description>Yep, its that time of year again.  Time to reminisce about two whole years since my mommy and daddy  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yep, its that time of year again.  Time to reminisce about two whole years since my mommy and daddy sprung me from lock up.  Next week will be my two year annifursary in my forever home.

Ah, I remember it well.  To honor the big day, mom has decided to recall our meeting and has asked me to provide my version, as well.

Mom: There I was, minding my own business at the dog shelter..
Jack: Nobody who goes to the dog shelter is minding their own business.
Mom: Okay, okay, let's just say I was casually looking for  a dog, but after months of disappointments, I was resigned to waiting a bit longer. Then, I saw him.
Jack: Well, technically, I saw YOU.
Mom: Yes, okay, but when I looked at you, I thought you were a very sweet 14 year old dog.  With puppy eyes.
Jack: Yeah, I know the hair was bad.  Hey, I'd been through a lot. And, I was a bit of a pigpen that first time. But, I gave you THE EYES.
Mom: You sure did. I couldn't stop looking. They were the sweetest, cutest eyes I'd seen in a LONG time.
Jack: Or.....ever.
Mom: Stop pushing it.
Jack: Okay.
Mom: So, I brought your dad back and we found out you were only 2 1/2 months old. What a shock!
Jack: Yeah, I thought you were older, too.
Mom: So, we brought you home, but first we went to see your grandma and grandpa.
Jack: I liked them right away.  Loved the backyard.
Mom: And, when we got you home, you went straight in and...
Jack: ....peed in the living room....I know, I know.....you're embarrassing me, my friends are reading this!
Mom: Well, you did.  But, you only had three other accidents in the house. You were a very good puppy. You slept through the night in your crate.
Jack: (Shudder) That )(&*&^$@() crate.  Hated it.
Mom: Well, moving on, let's just say that we loved you from the moment we decided to bring you home.
Jack: Ditto. I knew you guys were my family and I loved you, too.

So, there you have it. Two years and no accidents later, here we all are.  On the eve of my annifursary I am going to send a special wish out to all my brothers and sisters in the shelters and on the streets. May you all find furever homes with as much love and good treats and warm beds as mine.  Each and every one of you deserves it.

AROOOOOOOO!!!!!!

Jack]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Why?</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/401639</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 15 Dec 2007 13:06:55 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/401639</guid>
		<description>What on earth did I do to deserve this?  Everything was going along just fine until they brought him ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ What on earth did I do to deserve this?  Everything was going along just fine until they brought him home.  Nobody ever bit me. Nobody ever ran over me and caused me to tumble down a hill, out of control.

Nobody ever took every last one of my toys and use it himself. 

In case you don't know who I'm talking about....its LOUIE.  Sigh. Big, dumb, oaf Louie.

He just can't stand still.  He can't run past me without biting my ear or my leg or my butt. I especially hate THAT. 

I mean, I guess he's an okay guy, but he needs some serious refining of his manners.  

On the other hand, he's the only dog who has ever been able to catch me when we play chase. 

Yeah, we play, okay?  I admit it. He's kinda fun.  KIND OF.  Not really. Just sorta. A little bit.

Actually, I might like him a teeny bit.  If he'd stop biting my butt.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Oh, my dog, its a puppy.</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/393185</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 23 Nov 2007 14:06:42 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/393185</guid>
		<description>Sigh. I am exhausted.  My new little brother, Louie is a complete goofball.  I mean, I guess he's ki ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Sigh. I am exhausted.  My new little brother, Louie is a complete goofball.  I mean, I guess he's kinda fun and all, but he's just crazed all the time.

I know that I wasn't that crazy when I was his age.  (Why are you laughing out loud, mom?)

I wanna play all the time, too, but there's playing and then there's battering ramming my head or hitting me with the broom or biting my leg or my undercarriage.  

And, this guy doesn't take a hint.  He just keeps going, like the energizer puppy.

I guess pretty soon he'll be out of his puppy stage, right?  Actually, it is kind of nice right now.  He tires himself out and I sneak some time with his toys.  Also, I peed on his bed when he wasn't looking. (Was that wrong? Blink Blink)  He's kind of easy to take advantage of, so I'll have to be good and not go too far with the practical jokes.

As long as he knows that what I say GOES, then he can stay. I might even stop peeing on his bed.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I THINK I GOTS A BROTHER.....</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/384977</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 3 Nov 2007 19:59:34 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/384977</guid>
		<description>Well, kind of.  He technically isn't my brother. He belongs to my grandma and grandpa. (Is that my u ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, kind of.  He technically isn't my brother. He belongs to my grandma and grandpa. (Is that my uncle?) He came home with them today. His name is Louie and he will soon have a new profile on Dogster....when I recover a bit from meeting him. 

Don't get me wrong, Louie is a swell guy, and all.....but, I'm just not too sure about this whole thing.

First, nobody consulted me. Yeah, I mean, they took me to meet him at the shelter the other week, but I just thought I was making a new friend. I didn't know he was gonna be coming HOME to my grandparent's house, for crying out loud!

Secondly, he's about seven months old.  Tell me honestly....was I that obnoxious when I was that age?! Sure hope not. I had to correct him several times when he tried to stand on me. Sheesh.  

On the whole, he's not that bad. I mean, I had fun with him.

He likes playing with my stuff.  I didn't think that was too cool. I mean, who comes over and takes another dude's orange ball and takes off with it? A puppy, that's who.  Sigh.

Also, I'm confused since everyone kept asking him to sit and stay and stuff and I guess I'm just too good for my own well being.  I kept doing everything they asked while the other guy did nothing right and got all the attention. That kinda sucked.

Well, I'll update you guys on the situation next time I see him. Maybe he'll have matured a bit by tomorrow.....]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I CAN COUNT! AND, TODAY I AM TWO!!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/376084</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 15 Oct 2007 08:01:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/376084</guid>
		<description>I can count! I sure can!  I know how many treats my mom has in her hand versus how many she's given  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I can count! I sure can!  I know how many treats my mom has in her hand versus how many she's given me.  My mom says she is very proud of me!

So, today when my mom gave me my morning treats, she also said, "Look, Jack, you are THIS MANY old today!"

Yep, I am TWO years old today.  My mom and daddy can't believe I am already THIS old.  They say it seems like just yesterday that I was an 11 pound ball of fur with eyes and only 2 1/2 months old.   

Whatever. All I know is,  here I am now...all 28.6 (went to the vet recently) pounds of me, a two year old big kid!

Happy Birthday to all you other pups out there, too!  I noticed on the Birthday stroll that there are 1,095 of us who are celebrating today...that's a lot of doggie parties.

I'll give a full report on the party (PARTY?! PARTY!? Did someone say party? Yeah, yeah, yeah....) later on in the week.


Arooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Jack's Back with Doggie 101!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/371386</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 2 Oct 2007 18:32:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/371386</guid>
		<description>Thanks to all the furkids who sent their kind comments about my new diary entry about housetraining! ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thanks to all the furkids who sent their kind comments about my new diary entry about housetraining!  

I'm back to talk about Leash Walking, today, as promised.  Let's get started!!

EQUIPMENT

Us dogs should always wear a collar with our Iicense, contact info and vaccination tags. I call this the essential, or every day, collar. Collars of any type should be tight enough to not easily slip over the dog's head, but loose enough that two fingers can slide easily between the dog's neck and the collar.  Don't forget that growing puppies often need collar changes, and adjust them accordingly, peeps. 

Most peeps don't realize that this essential, every day collar can (and probably should) be different than what we're led by.

There are many different types of collars and leads to choose from, and you'll want to make sure that your parents get the right combination for you.

There are harnesses, which are ideal for very small dogs, or puppies, who should never be led by their delicate necks.  Harnesses come in all sizes, and also some different shapes. There are gentle leaders, true harnesses and also halters, which take the pressure off the dog's neck and also prevent pulling by how they are positioned when the leash is attached.  

Make sure your mom or dad pick out a leash that has a loop at their end and a sturdy metal clasp on the "you" end.  Nylon is excellent, but so are latigo leather and even some sturdy natural cotton fiber leads. Make sure that the leash is not too heavy for you; if you are small or a youngster, a thinner, lighter lead is ideal.

For dogs who pull a LOT, there are pinch or prong collars or choke chains.  Personally, my mom and I would only recommend prong collars for those who are advanced dog owners.  Peeps should also try the collar once on your arm or leg with the lead attached to get an idea of what it feels like  on your furry little neck when the lead is pulled or tightened. Again, tell your peeps that if they HAVE to use these collars, don't let them even THINK about touching you with one until you're at least a year old.

I would not recommend choke collars at all.  They actually interfere with the training and a gentle leader, harness or pinch collar are all options to choose before the choke collar simply for the fact that the majority of people out there use it incorrectly, even when they think they know what they are doing. (Peeps, huh? Gotta love 'em....)  These types of collars are suspect in neck arthritis later in life and also damage to the trachea, which can actually be fatal. Shudder.

HEEL!

Once your 'rents have chosen the correct lead and harness or collar for you,  its time to hit the streets!

Pulling is one of the main complaints people have about their dogs while on leash. (Man, they just don't get how exciting it is to be outside, do they?)

Pulling can be greatly minimized by teaching a dog to heel. The heel command is fairly basic and can be mastered by most dogs (when properly and consistently taught - yes, I'm talkin' to YOU humans!) within a few days.

When the dog pulls on the leash, GENTLY say heel and GENTLY tug back the lead until the dog is in line with the human's legs.  Now, people, you don't have to yank on the leash or yell. We hear you, okay? Remember how we can hear much better than you? Okay....

When the dog comes back or slows down, the dog gets rewarded (that's the part we like) and learns that she wants to stick with the person cause good stuff happens there. If a dog isn't heeling right away, simply tug the lead back after a "heel" command has been ignored so that the dog gets the connection between what you are saying and what you want from the dog.  Remember, as with any training or communication with us dogs, we respond to body language as cues better than we do spoken words.  Think about how often we use body language to teach each other or communicate. People, you gotta start thinkin' like a DOG!

If you have a stubborn dog, ask the dog to sit or stay for a moment before continuing.  Hearing heel, ignoring the command and then having to sit before continuing will eventually sink in. 

Another good way to keep your dog at your side, instead of pulling you into things is to keep cookies in the dog's face, and reward him when he stays by you, even through a sharp turn. Simply practicing sharp turns while using the heel command can help keep the dog near your legs if you give out the cookies generously. Eventually, your enthusiastic praise is a good substitute for the cookies.

PRAISE THE DOG!

I never get how people only talk to their dog when he's doin' something they DON''T like. How on earth is he supposed to learn what you want if you never tell him when he's doing it right?

Don't forget to keep saying "Good Dog" and repeating the heel command EVEN AFTER you've praised the dog for heeling properly.  We can sometimes forget that we've done good and go right back into the behavior you don't like.  


WHY WALKIES?

Dogs love walks.  Period.  We love to walk around the block, even if we've been there a gazillion times. Why?  Because it is our hood, man, and we like to see what's goin' out out there! Also, we like hanging with you, since you're so freaking cooooool!   I believe you people call that bonding.

Even dogs who play with each other all day long need walks.  It is great mental and physical exercise for us and we'll be much happier if we get at least a couple of walks a day.  So will you.  I didn't mean to mention it, but you know that spare tire you've been complaining about.......

Also, peeps, keep in mind that when YOU take us on walkies and YOU are hte leader, it just drives home how great you are and how much we respect you and wanna dog what you ask from us. Really!

 We count on you to show us a good time, keep us trim and fit and help us enjoy life while patrolling our neighborhood for crimefighting opportunities. Don't let us down, man!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Jack's Doggie 101</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/367175</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:49:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/367175</guid>
		<description>So, I'm a pretty well-behaved guy, especially for a terrorier.  I don't really do anything too bad,  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So, I'm a pretty well-behaved guy, especially for a terrorier.  I don't really do anything too bad, unless you count getting a LITTLE too excited when I see a fellow canine nearby (I'm workin' on it, but I think you hear me knocking, if you know what I mean!) and then there was Burritogate.....where was I?

Oh, yeah, I thought I'd start a new diary series to help the less experiened doggies and new owners with the basics of doggie training.  My goal is to help out any fellow pups with the (ahem) immense experience I've gained over nearly two years I've been around.

So, without further delay, let's kick off Jack's Doggie 101: Lesson 1 Houstraining Without a Crate!

Housetraining can range from a mild inconvenience to a full blown war, depending on the dog and the human involved in the training.  But, as we dogs have known for years, when it comes to ANY aspect of training us canines, it is the HUMANS that make the most mistakes.  Wag, wag, wag.

INSTINCT: What on Earth are we THINKING?

Our birth mamas teach us where and when to go, using lots of different techniques, most of which are NOT verbal. That's where the humans mess up.  Us dogs are all about the body language, people. We got no idea what you're trying to say to us! Trouble is, not many of us get to stay with our moms long enough to be trained.

Somewhere around the time we are a few weeks old, it occurs to us that it might not be a great idea to....sorry to be indelicate....poop where we eat (or sleep, for that matter.)  

Unless we have someone there to help us out with this concept, we just can't help ourselves.  As puppies, we just gotta GO.  A lot. And then some more.

Our bladders don't mature until we are almost a year old, so our parents have to be vigilant and not rely on us being able to hold it as well as our adult counterparts.

As a general rule, puppies that are a couple of months old need to be taken outside about every 45 minutes to an hour to pee or poop, just in case.  More so if we've been running around excitedly, eaten, had water or even had a slight scare.  It all goes through pretty quickly.

WHERE YOUR PEEPS COME IN: Training Your Parents

The first rule of housetraining is that YOU can't make a mistake.  (Duh, you're a dog...you're not being BAD, you're being a DOG.)  Only your humans can make mistakes.  It is 100% up to them to help you succeed.  The number two rule (heheheheh) is that your parents should NEVER yell at you, rub your nose in an accident or hit you if you have an accident. They will have to deal with a visit from my mom if I hear about any of this sort of behavior.  She will give your parents  "the look" and they will fall over on their backs and turn to stone.

First, have your peeps keep you in a roped off area of the house that they won't feel horrible about you pooping or peeing in. The kitchen is great and baby gates or wood can be used to block off the entrances. You will live in this area until you can be trusted.

Next, have them take you out to the same corner of the backyard each time and give you a command word or phrase like, 'Business' or 'Do it' or 'Cupcake.'  The more bizarre the word, the less likely you are to hear it in any other context and think they are asking you to do it!  Now, this is the good part....have them give you a treat and go crazy telling you how good you are each time you go where you're supposed to.

Within a few days, you should be getting the idea that when you're taken to this place and you hear this word, you gotta go. AND, you get some cookies and some good lovin'!

Please don't  let your peeps use paper training or pad training. This contradicts the whole poop area/live area concept and once you mess with that, chances are you'll be confused about where to go for life.
 

SIGNS

Unbeknownst to the peeps, we give so MANY signs when we gotta go. Tell your peeps that keeping and eye out for signs is the number one way to speed up the training and have less accidents.  Signs include: circling, sniffing, wandering or stopping playing to look around.  As soon as a sign presents itself, your parents should take you to the potty place and give the command.

ACCIDENTS

Accidents happen. No getting around that.  But, remember that once you've taught the peeps your SIGNS, its all about them. It is their responsibilty to look for those signs, even if you've just gone potty five minutes beforehand.  From here on out, if there's an accident, its not your fault, its theirs!

If they catch you having an accident, your parents should stop you with a firm, "No" but no yelling.  They should pick you up, even if in midstream, then take you to the place you are supposed to go and put you there with the command word.

A special note for humans: This is no time for anger. Anger and yelling only make our furry little heads spin with confusion and the last thing you want is a dog that equates fear with poop. Calm is the order of the day.

If you have an accident and it is discovered later on, tell your peeps the ONLY way to handle this is to discreetly clean it up/dispose of it without involving you.  Most of us furkids are not intelligent enough to figure out what you are disapproving of , even five minutes later.  If some peeps think that we know, its just that we are reading your upset body language and we know you're mad, if not why.

If you do sleep in a crate at night, make sure your peeps CARRY you from the crate to the backyard each morning until you can be trusted. This eliminates accidents. 

Have your peeps keep some enzyme based carpet cleaner on hand for accidents. Not only will it sanitize the area, but it will probably keep you from getting confused about where to go since it destroys the odor from the accident. 

After you've mastered the kitchen, have the peeps introduce each room in the house to you, slowly.  You should be allowed in for ten minutes or so when you've just gone potty.  That way, accidents aren't as likely. The goal here is to get you to see the whole house as your den, and not just the kitchen. If there is a room that is off limits to you in the house, that's fine. But, make sure you tell the peeps that until you're an adult, make sure you can't get in there or there could be TROUBLE.

If, after a few weeks go by without accidents, there suddenly is one, have your peeps go straight back to step one as if you've never been housetrained before.  

Some dogs (like ME) can pick up on it within a couple of days and be housetrained within a week .  Just like human potty training, the key is parental consistency and vigilance.

Good luck with the housetraining, and feel free to email me with any questions on how I managed to be a card carrying member of the accident free club!

Next week in Doggie 101: How to Walk on a Leash!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>BIRTHDAYS AND NEW FRIENDS!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/366777</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 20 Sep 2007 09:17:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/366777</guid>
		<description>So, its been quite a wild ride since my last diary entry.

I've made some new friends in my grandm ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So, its been quite a wild ride since my last diary entry.

I've made some new friends in my grandma and granpaw's backyard.  They look like a cross between squirrels and chipmunks.  They appear to be babies.  I call them Squirmunks.  They are very small, and I COULD pop 'em in my mouth, if I wanted, but I choose to PLAY with them and OBSERVE them, instead. 

That's just the kind of guy I am.  

Anyhoo, I first discovered them a few weeks back, but recently I was actually able to make contact with a brave one who was just as curious about me as I was about it, according to my mom.   There were three babies scurrying around the backyard and they were exploring and playing and checking stuff out.  My mom let me outside to say hi and one of them came up to me and we went nose to nose.  Mom says she wishes she'd had a camera so she could show all you dogster guys how cute the encounter was.  Whatever.  All I know is that thing smelled like rodent and rosemary, which I suspect they've been eating from the garden.  Pretty cute, too, though, I have to admit.  Too bad he eventually ran away....I wanted to PLAY. PLAY, PLAY, PLAY, PLAAAAAY!

Don't feel sorry for me, though, folks, cause I go to play, recently.  

My friend Little Jack (a maltese) turned three last weekend and we went to a remote park where we had an off leash birthday PARTY!!!!!  PARRRRTTTYYYY!

As you may know, if you read my diary entries on a regular basis, there's nothing I love more than a PARRRTTTYYY.  Except, maybe a DOG PARRRRTTYYYY!

There were lots of humans there and five dogs.  We played, and played and played and there were lots of Treats. Treats!!!! Party. Playing.....treaaaats!

Anyone know when the next party is????]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Tag....You're It?</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/354611</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 21 Aug 2007 14:51:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/354611</guid>
		<description>Got Brussels Sprout?

Heh, heh, heh!  I've been tagged by my friend, Scout!  

For those of you  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Got Brussels Sprout?

Heh, heh, heh!  I've been tagged by my friend, Scout!  

For those of you who are here because I passed on a juicy brussels sprout to you, Here are The Rules: tag three of your pals and write why they deserve to be love tagged! Direct them to your diary for the rules.

Tully - My girl Tully is not only super-sweet and a very good girl, she's a NATURAL BEAUTY. Look at that face!  I picked Tully to tag since I think she can actually catch me once we start runnin', but also to honor how far she's come since she started living with her sis Scout and her furever mommy and daddy.  She's a very brave girl with an unbreakable spirit AND she knows how to have fun (finally!)  Here's to you, Tully!

Cooper - Cooper has been through a Ruff time lately since losing his bro, Jake.  Cooper is not only one of the CUTEST WFTers EVER(!!!) but he's a very sweet, good natured and well-behaved pupster.  Hey, Coop, you're the best terrier friend a guy could have!

Elyas Manchera -Look at that face!  My buddy Eli is not only handsome, but one smart cookie. Did someone say COOKIE?!!!!!  We both gots long leggies and "stormtrooper butts."  Separated at birth???

Well, let the games begin! I'm going to the doggie park to get a head start for the tagging.  Game on!!!!!

Aroooooooo!

The Jackster]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>LITTLE TERRIER GUY EATS A BURRITO</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/342744</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 26 Jul 2007 19:31:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/342744</guid>
		<description>A chicken burrito.  Let me tell you, folks, a whole, new world has been recently opened up before my ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ A chicken burrito.  Let me tell you, folks, a whole, new world has been recently opened up before my beady little eyes.  That world is the magical, mysterious world of people food.  More Specifically, Mexican Food.  More specifically, Chicken Burritos.

See, before I was just a dog food kind of guy.  Sure, I got some treats, but they were all "good" stuff, like peas, apple and potato.  Once in a while, boiled chicken or turkey.  Cooked, unseasoned pasta was in heavy rotation in my bowl alongside the usual puppy food.  But, never, NEVER did I dream that people food could be so......GLORIOUS!

It was a non-eventful night. The only slightly different thing was that my mother and father were sitting in the living room having their dinner instead of the kitchen table, as per usual.  So, I was naturally in there with them, lounging on the floor.  I wasn't coffee table surfing or anything. I didn't even know what that was.....yet.

Mom took a phone call and wrapped up 1/2 of her giant, charbroiled chicken, rice and bean and cheese and.....um, burrito.  And, then, just like that, she went upstairs and Dad went into the other room.  

There I was with the massive thing, staring at me. I was very concerned that something was going to happen and I was going to get in trouble. I had a sinking feeling that this was to be a definitive moment in my life.  I heard someone, as if from a great distance, call my name.  I shook my head.  It couldn't be.  The burrito was actually talking to me. It said, "Jack!  Jaaaack. Go ahead, its okay. You want to. You know it makes sense....they left it here for you. It would be RUDE not to eat it before they come back into the living room. "

Gingerly, I approached the strange looking thing which lurked, tantilizingly at the Little Terrier Guy Horizon Line.  It was wrapped in some shiny silver stuff, which I gingerly parted with my teeth and freed the savory item within.

There was some sort of rubbery outer layer, which I unrolled on the carpet. I think that was called a tortilla. I was just interested in the insides, which I made quick work of.  

My mom came running when she heard Dad shouting, "No, No, Jack!"  But, then it was too late. I tried to show them how good I was to have eaten the special treat they left for me, but they weren't too happy. Mom didn't say anything other than, "Oh, Jaaacckkk...." and I turned to stone, fell on my back and put my tail between my legs. I tried my best to look sincerely (and pathetically, cutely) remorseful for eating her dinner, but I think it didn't help that I was licking the rice from my beard as I apologized.

My mom and dad are really cool, though, and I really wasn't in much trouble. They gave me the silent treatment for 10 minutes or so, until I couldn't remember what it was that I was upset about.

My lesson that night was that its not nice to eat someone else's dinner, even if the dinner tells you that you should. 

Also, I could have eaten the tortilla, too.  Next time.....er, did I say that out loud?

So, to recap:

Jack Bad.

Burritos Good. 

Burritos Very, Very Good.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Little Terrier Guy</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/331307</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Jul 2007 22:42:25 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/331307</guid>
		<description>Hi!

I'm BAAAACK!  I have been on a summer hiatus, much like your favorite tv shows. But, I'm back ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi!

I'm BAAAACK!  I have been on a summer hiatus, much like your favorite tv shows. But, I'm back to say hi to all my friends and fans.

Things are good. Things are actually VERY good.  I'm still getting two meals a day and lots of treats. I'm still having F.U.N. almost every single day. Life is good.

Of course, I do have some complaints. 

I'd like to be able to be at the beach, offleash every day, for at least seven hours.  Mom thinks, "not so much, Hairy One."  

I'd also like mom to let me feed myself from the people section of the fridge.  Mom says, "not a chance, Puppy Stuff."  

I would like to make sure the neigborhood knows when the UPS guy comes to try and kill us, but my dad says, "stop that, Toughster."

I'd like to invite all the neighborhood dogs over for a sleep-over at my place.  My mom and dad say, "Um. How about......NO."

I'd like to visit my RaRas EVERY DAY.  They say, "Okay." So, I guess I get my way, SOME of the time.

I have a new summer hairstyle.  It is called Shorn Like A Baby Sheep and its all the rage in Europe.  My mom actually requested it from Auntie Sue, the lady who cuts my hair.  

I don't like my hair bein' messed with, too much. I gotz to have my Mojo, if you know what I mean.  A guy has to have good hair. Especially a Little Terrier Guy.  That's what people call me.  I've heard that a lot, lately. In fact, even though I tell my name outloud to anyone I meet, I still get addressed as Little Terrier Guy.  Strangers call me Little Terrier Guy.  What the heck does that MEAN?

I'm 28 pounds for crying out loud. That's HUGE.  And, I'm not a "guy." I'm a MAN. Got hair on my chest, a moustache and everything.  

Oh, well, I guess a GUY's gotta count his blessings and not focus on the negative. Even a Little Terrier Guy.

So, here's wishing all you pups and pup-ettes a grand summertime.  Be sure to smell the freshly cut grass, roll in it too, if the mood strikes.  For those of you with kids you're in charge of, enjoy that they are home more during summertime.  Enjoy the little bits of tasty goodness that fall off that grill.
Enjoy the sunshine and the warmth and the blue skies. Enjoy your moms and dads and butterflies and bees and ice cream (get them to give you the very bottom of the cone, as long as its not chocolate!) 

Watch out for fleas.  Don't stay out in the sun too long. Don't let mom and dad put you in the car for more than a couple of minutes unattended.  Make sure you have enough water and shade if you have to stay outside while mom and dad are at work.  And, make sure you have FUN EVERY DAY!

Love,
The Little Terrier Guy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I hate goodbyes...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/315848</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 26 May 2007 23:35:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/315848</guid>
		<description>My friend Jake went to the Rainbow Bridge this week.  

Those of you who knew Jake knew what a cha ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My friend Jake went to the Rainbow Bridge this week.  

Those of you who knew Jake knew what a character he was and all the crazy adventures he had with his fur-brother Cooper.  They were quite a team!

My furry little heart goes out to Cooper and to his mom and human family, too. I'm going to miss getting bark mails from Jake.  

What I learned about Jake in the relatively short time I knew him was:

He was a trooper....he didn't let feeling bad get in his way of having a good time with Cooper and his family.

He was smart as  a whip.....his bark mails never even had any typos.  What a guy!

He was a dog's dog.  Dignity and style, all the way, baby.

He had a great sense of humor. His adventures with Cooper were classic and so funny.

His mommy was absolutely crazy about him.  (I think it was mutual.)

He loved hanging out on the verandah with Cooper.

He was the kind of dog I want to grow up to be like....a dignified gentleman with a gleam in his eye.

Those of you who knew him, too, should visit his page and leave him a star or rosette in honor of his wonderful life.  

I hate goodbyes.  But, I sure am glad I got to know Jake.  He was an amazing dog.  Until we meet again, my friend......]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>But, I'm already wearing three tags.........</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/314496</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 24 May 2007 22:49:57 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/314496</guid>
		<description>I seem to remember that someone once commented that it was too bad I didn't  &quot;come with a tag&quot; when  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I seem to remember that someone once commented that it was too bad I didn't  "come with a tag" when I first came home with my mommy and daddy.  So, what is a tag, anyhoo?  My friend Scout has given me a tag, and I suppose I'll play along.  

(Scout, can I get a cookie out of this tag thing?)

Here's the scoop:

Here are the rules of the game!

Each player starts with seven random facts about themselves. Dogs who are tagged, need to post in their Diary the rules & their 7 pawsome facts. Then choose 7 dogs to tag and list their names. Don’t forget to bark them a pmail that they have been tagged and to read your Diary, or, send them a fun Rosette announcing they've been Tagged!

The Top Seven Reasons the Jackster Rocks

7) His front paw nails are all black, but he has alternate pink, black and clear nails on his back paws.

6) His favorite thing ON THIS EARTH is for someone to chase him while he has a ball/bone/leaf/rock/anything in his mouth.

5) He once had a whisker that was over 4.5 inches long.

4) He "talks" all day long, sometimes muttering to himself as he walks around the house.  He has a new squeak, squawk or chortle every day. 

3) If he wants someone to pick him up, he sits on his haunches, lifts his arms up as high as they will go.....and waits.

2) He graduated at the top of his puppy class with his best friend, Bentley. His mom says, 'He did everything perfectly on his final exam!'

And, the number one reason the Jackster rocks is....

1) He loves to put on perfume.  His mom takes the fragrance strips out of magazines, gives them to Jack and he "puts the perfume on" by rolling around like crazy and rubbing himself all over the strip until he's exhausted....and smells good.

Jack is tagging:

1) Honey Bun 
2) Tristan
3) Rudy
4)Tully (tell your sneaky sister!)
5)Mo Cuishle
6) Penny Lane
7) Zoe]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Friends</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/301793</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 25 Apr 2007 21:07:57 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/301793</guid>
		<description>What is a friend?  A furry, furry friend? I'm still learning English (Muppet is my first language, i ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ What is a friend?  A furry, furry friend? I'm still learning English (Muppet is my first language, in case you were wondering....)

I keep hearing "friend" and "furry friend" all the time.  I think it means someone you like and who likes you.

Or, it could mean someone who bit you on the ankle and then tried to make you chase them on the beach.

I also hear it once with regards to Emma, the female beagle at doggie daycare. She has a "thing" about me.  That's what I heard them saying.  She likes to corner me and try to have her way with me.  Maybe that is what friend means...having one's way.

A friend could also be someone who feeds you, or someone you run to when you need to be picked up because a big scary trash bag blows by in the wind and you will be killed by this horrible, plastic, puppy-eating monster if you don't get to higher ground, immediately.

(I don't think a friend gives you a bath or brushes your teeth.)

Personally, I think a friend might be all of these things, and also something more:

Someone that you've never met in person, but you understand completely from just a few short exchanges. Someone who understands what its like to be a dog, or a person with a dog, for that matter. 

I think a friend is someone who understands love, pure and simple, the kind with no ulterior motives and no expectations.

This diary entry is about friendship, and I'm dedicating it to my friends Cooper and Jake.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Identity Crisis</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/285491</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 18 Mar 2007 22:08:01 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/285491</guid>
		<description>Well, my friends, it has been a long many weeks since I've spoken to you all via my diary entry.  An ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, my friends, it has been a long many weeks since I've spoken to you all via my diary entry.  And, I have to say that being Dog of the Week (aka King of Dogster) was quite a daunting task.  As wonderful as it was to be King of All Dogs for a week , the experience left me somewhat tired and had the unexpected side-effect of quite a bit of soul searching.

In the weeks that have followed my reign, I find myself in the midst of a kind of canine identity crisis. Simply put, I'm not quite sure who I am.

Now, some of you might be thinking, "You're Jack!....that loveable, wonderful sweet dog we all know and love.  The smart, handsome and thoroughly clever and alltogether wonderful dog who won DOTW and whom we love without condition or artifice."  And, of course, you'd be right.  

But, quite simply put, I don't know WHAT I am.

My doubts started to creep in after my first official haircut.  Of course, everyone said I was cute and wonderful, as usual, with my new 'do.  But, unbeknownst to everyone around me, I was starting to see someone in the mirror I didn't recognize any longer.  Where there had once been black, frizzy, curly fuzzles of hair all over the place, there was now reddish brown and lighter black, silky fine and perfectly groomed hair.  Where there was once long and curly arm fur and huge slipper like feet, there was now groomed forearms and feet that were trimmed into a somewhat macabre topiary likeness of tiny cat feet.

For hours, I stared at myself, daring my reflection to reveal even ONE clue as to what I really was.  But, as soon as I felt like I was about to have an epiphany.....I'd have to pee.

Many passersby in my life have been kind, but totally unhelpful. People at the dog park offer their opinions on my background, and I've heard everything from Scottish to Irish to Welsh and even Australian.   My own vet thinks I am an Airedale.  Perhaps she thinks I've been put into the dryer at the groomers' once too often.

Just when I was getting comfortable thinking I was a Welsh Terrier/Wire Fox Terrier mix, something happened.  My mother and I were walking on the beach, and this ray of sunlight hit my handsome visage.  As we looked at each other, I knew we were both having the same frightening, insecure thought......

Yes, I think I'm part beagle, people.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'll never forget the little people....and by that, I mean the Rat Terriers....</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/264634</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 28 Jan 2007 20:35:35 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/264634</guid>
		<description>Well, here I am, mid-way through my week as reigning King of Dogster. 

I've been overwhelmed with ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, here I am, mid-way through my week as reigning King of Dogster. 

I've been overwhelmed with emails and pup pal requests, so it doesn't seem right not to take the opportunity to thank all the dogs (and, yes, some cats) who have been emailing me, giving me rosettes and stars and inviting me to be pals.  

I've been really touched by all of your friendship, your sweet messages of congratulations and most of all by your stories of your own rescue and adoption by your furever moms and dads.  

Over the past few days, I've gotten to know some of you very well and have heard so many stories.  Some have made me bark out loud they were so funny.  Some have been touching and others triumphant.  Some have been heartbreaking. But, all of them have highlighted the incredible, beautiful bond that we, the lucky few, have with our humans.

Growing up in the shelter, I always dreamed of being DOTW on Dogster and having a home where I'd be waited on hand and paw, with daily walkies, trips to the beach and to the dog park to see my friends, both human and canine.  I dreamt of a warm bed and good food and more love and trust than I knew what to do with. Of course, some dogs said I was  just a dreamer.  After all, I had no idea what Dogster was. (In fact, I still don't really, but don't tell anyone.) And, I certainly didn't know what a real home was.  Okay, okay, so I only dreamed of a home and not the Dogster thing....  But, my point is this:

I clung to my dream.  And, its a dream that a lot of you doggies out there shared with me.  Whether you came from a shelter or a rescue or were found on the streets or were from a breeder, we all have the same thing in common; a home where we're wanted  and loved and, most likely spoiled rotten.  Or, in the case of the aforementioned Rat Terriers, spoiled ratten. 

And, what we give our moms and dads in return is the most special of all loves.  The kind of love that only we, as dogs (and, perhaps one or two cats) can give our humans...Unconditional.  Limitless.  Forever.   

So, please accept my heartfelt thanks for each of your notes and kind comments and emails. I feel I must tell you that you should all strive to be DOTW.  Mostly for the extra cookies you'll no doubt be served on fine china or a silver platter.  But, also so you can see for yourselves how many dogs like us are making the world a better place, just by being what each of us are: Perfect.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'm The Dog of the WEEK!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/263256</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 25 Jan 2007 16:51:00 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/263256</guid>
		<description>Aroooooooooooo!!!!!

My mom just got an email from Dogster.  I figured it must have been a doozy ' ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Aroooooooooooo!!!!!

My mom just got an email from Dogster.  I figured it must have been a doozy 'cause she almost fell on the floor when she saw.  She made a werid squeak noise and then told me that I was the dog of the week!

Apparently, my goofy grin won over the 'dudes and gals at Dogster's Top Secret Dog of the Week Crew.

Yep, I sure was yukkin' it up in that photo.  See, it was right after my first haircut, which meant two things:

1) I could see, and

2) I had "blow dry hair" which meant I was twice as big all over.  My dad said I looked like myself, only really close-up. 

Anyhowl, I have to tell you all, I'm pretty much smilin' 24 hours a day in my new, fur-ever home. 

Since I'm dog of the week, I'm gonna take this opportunity to get on my kibble-box and encourage every human out there reading this to go to consider adopting a dog from your local shelter or animal rescue organization.  I'm living proof that sometimes "happily ever after"  is virtually free.....]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Something HORRIBLE happened on the way to the forum.</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/259803</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 17 Jan 2007 17:53:37 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/259803</guid>
		<description>What was THAT? 

Yesterday, the strangest thing happened.  It was a morning like no other.  Mommy  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ What was THAT? 

Yesterday, the strangest thing happened.  It was a morning like no other.  Mommy seemed to be doing a lot of sighing and kissing me. I thought maybe it was Kissmas time, again!  But, no such luck.

We went to the place with doggies where I don't play, but I wasn't too concerned.  I still like this place, but the last couple of times I've been there, well, I don't like it as much as the doggie daycare place, let's just say.

Anyway, my mom and dad left me with this nice girl who was going to take me back to see the other dogs so we could play!  But, that never happened.  They put this funny thing on my face, shaved my arm and my shoulder and then asked me to count backwards from 100.  (Hey, note to hospital staff: I'm only one!  I can count to 10 and that's it, okay?)

Anyway, when I woke up, I was in a cage (my most un-favorite place to be)  and I felt like I'd been smacked around by a Newfoundland or something.  My shoulder hurt something awful and then I saw it: They CUT MY SHOULDER and stitched it up again.  WHAT??!

So, here I am in this cage and I FREAKED.  I made a lot of noise and cried a lot.  So much noise that the vet told my mom and dad I was very upset and crying a lot back in the cage.  Gee, thanks a lot, lady. Why don't you just tell them I'm a big wuss while you're at it.....

I had to stay there such a long time.  I was sooo happy to see my mom and dad that I forgot my shoulder and tried to jump up on them. I was whining and crying and my eyes were watering.  I wasn't crying like I've seen people do, but they were really watery.  Worked in my favor, though, because I think that made them feel extra sorry for me! (Read: more treats!)

I was super-sleepy when we got home and very hungry. I ate my dinner, but afterwards, I feel verrrry trippy.  It was upsetting and I was NOT in a good way.  I think I slept it off, though, because this morning, I was feeling pretty, pretty, pretty good! 

I still have a huge gash on my arm. What the heck did they do THAT to me for?  What did I ever do to them? Don't they realize I'm CUTE?  Didn't my mom and dad notice what they did to me?  Why didn't they smack the doctor and nurses around for hurting me?   They would never stand for such a thing happening to me if they knew....

I know one thing for sure; I'm not letting my mom out of my sight.  As long as I cling to her like a leaf, nobody can get to me and do this to me, again!

So, listen up, guys, be careful next time you get taken to the V.E.T.  You might just come back as Frankendog!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Merry KISSMAS???</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/249003</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 24 Dec 2006 08:20:12 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/249003</guid>
		<description>Okay, so I keep hearing all this stuff about Kissmas.  What is that? Does anyone know?   I am thinki ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Okay, so I keep hearing all this stuff about Kissmas.  What is that? Does anyone know?   I am thinking it is a day where I get more kisses than I usually get.  Just as long as mom doesn't do it in front of the guys. (Aaaaawww, mom!)

People make such a big deal about Kissmas, so it MUST Be good.  Mom has put up lights around the house and there are so many wrapped up things for me to smell that I think I'm gonna lose my mind!

Last week, we had Hannukah.  Wow, that took me a long time to learn how to spell.  My mom says not to worry, most grown up humans can't decide how to spell Hannukah/Channukah/Hanukah/Chanuka/Cha....

Regardless, Hannukah is now officially my favorite holiday. Not only did I get to visit and see my RaRas (grandma and grandpa!) almost every night, but I got PRESENTS every night.  My RaRas got me a little blue bouncy ball that has a jingle bell in there, somehwere.  It is my new best friend and last night, I got up to bring it into my bed so I could be closer to it!   When I woke up this morning, it had rolled away a little bit, but I was still happy to see it!

Kissmas must be great.  I can't wait.  I can't wait! I CAN'T WAIT!  More presents!! More RaRas, more PLAYING.  And, as you probably know by now, that is my middle name...

Merry Kissmas, every ONE.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>THANKSGIVING!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/240551</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 4 Dec 2006 15:14:31 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/240551</guid>
		<description>So, nobody told me about this whole Thanksgiving thing until the actual day.  I kept on hearing ever ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So, nobody told me about this whole Thanksgiving thing until the actual day.  I kept on hearing everyone talking about it, but nobody actually told ME anything about it until that Thursday. THAT WONDERFUL THURSDAY.  

I am sooo thankful. I'm thankful to be thankful for Thanksgiving. That's my new motto.  I wonder when it will be happening again?  Next week?  Hope so! 

Well, my day started with an early morning trip the beach. THE BEACH. THANKSGIVING.  YAAAHHHHHHHOOOOOOOO!!!  So, at the beach, there was a Rhodesian Ridgeback named Bodi that I played with for almost 45 minutes.  We chased each other (he never caught me 'cause I'm TOO DARN FAST!) and we ducked and dove in and out of the waves. THE BEACH!  YAHHHHOOOOOOOO!  Thanksgiving.  Great. Thanks.....

Anyway, yeah, so we get back home and all this cooking and cleaning and stuff was going on in the kitchen. I was completely occupied with making sure I knew what was going on that I never once got a nap.  Then, without warning....A BATH. Ick.  Not so thankful.  I was keeping that sand for a project, mom!

Back to my story......so, my dad took me to the park around midday to play with Bentley.  BENTLEY!!!!!  Yeah, yeah. Thankful for Bentley.  Thanksgiving.  FUN.Thanks......we played for ages!  Then, back home to mom who was still in the kitchen.  Such sweet smells were coming from the oven and the fridge.  My mom gave me a piece of carrot and my eyes almost bugged out of my head (well, that's what she says, I don't remember anything but how great that carrot tasted!)  Does everything taste so much better on Thanksgiving????

Later on, the family came around (arroooooooo!!!!) and that was the BEST part! We were all together. And, eating! I got turkey, celery and a piece of potato in my bowl.  And, that was AFTER my regular dinner.  I was stuffed, but happy.

Thanksgiving.  Giving Thanks.  Thanks.  Food.  Good food.  Thanks. So, does anyone know when the next one is??? Anyone????]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Of Mice and Airedales.....</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/234756</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 20 Nov 2006 13:30:28 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/234756</guid>
		<description>Let me apologize for what is basically going to be a rant and not a diary entry, today.  First off,  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Let me apologize for what is basically going to be a rant and not a diary entry, today.  First off, I'm kinda in a grumpy mood because my best friend Bentley pushed me into a mud puddle.

Well, I wasn't exactly pushed.  It was more like a launching.

See, I was playing with Bent and a couple of other guys we'd just met at the doggie park, last week.  I was deep in thought (which is better...chicken or turkey?) and he ran up behind me and did a huge body slam on my backside.  I was launched in the air, legs akimbo, before I even knew what hit me.  Mom says I was at least up 3 feet in the air at my highest point.  Then, I landed (face first) in a mud puddle.  Now, the thing that gets my mom about this is that it is about 78 degrees here in California right now and there's not a mud puddle to be found......except, I guess, when you're catapulted into one by a goofball canine. 

After I picked myself up out of the mud with a little help from mom, I immediately focused in on Bentley and ran over using his side as a springboard while howling all the doggie curse words I have learned so far at the park.   I left some big muddy pawprints on his side, but I didn't succeed in knocking him into next week.

Then, for some reason known only to her, mom took me straight home.  She mumbled something about not passing go, and not collecting my $200.  I could have bought a lot of treats with $200. Too bad.

But, not as bad as what was awaiting me when we got home.  Yes, my friends, my horrible ogre of a mom gave me a B.A.T.H.  Playing in the mud is all fun and games until someone gets cleaned.  I tried giving her the helpless eyes, which didn't work.  Then, I  tried climbing to the highest, driest ground there was, but she didn't appreciate wearing me as a hat.  Luckily, it was a short bath just to get rid of the mud. Shudder.

On to my next rant.....why on earth do so many people think I am an Airedale?  I mean, people, look at me!!! I'm 28lbs soaking wet. (Ack! WET! *Shudder* I just had a B.A.T.H. flashback.)

I also don't have particularly curly hair due to whatever it is my biological mom and dad were.  

But, for some reason, people insist on asking my mom and dad if I'm an Airedale.  Now, don't get me wrong.  Even the folks at the shelter told my mom and dad I was going to grow up big and be an Airedale (shhhyeah, right!) so I can see how even people in the know could be fooled by my big dog 'tude and my great looks.  But, come on! I'm about 1/4 of the size of an Airedale.  This leads me to my next gripe....

I'm at the pet supply store the other day with mom and this man comes up to say hello and says, "I didn't know they were breeding Airedales with mice...." as he leans down to pet me. 

Dude, that's just not cool.  I have ears (big ones!) and I heard what you said.  No way am I a mouse. I'm all dog, Mister. 

My mom always patiently explains that I'm most likely a Welsh Terrier mix.  She says, "....That's the one that looks like a miniature Airedale, so it makes sense that he looks like one to you."  I wish I could remember what my mom and dad were, but when a guy can't remember what happened to him two hours ago, then there's not much hope for his long term memory.
 
The other thing that kinda bugs me is that sooo many people think that it is "amazing" or "unbelievable" that I came from the local shelter.  As if there aren't millions of us great finds in shelters all over the country, every day of the week, waitin' for someone to come scoop us up and live in a fur-ever home.   

People, don't go buyin' one of them designer dogs.  At least not before you go to the shelter first and see the best dogs around....the mutts!  You may have to go once or twice before you find your best friend, but I'm tellin' ya, you'll find him.  Or, her, if she happens to be a grrrrrrl.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Puked.</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/230320</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 9 Nov 2006 13:02:01 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/230320</guid>
		<description>Today, I puked.  Threw up. Vomited.  Hurled. Tossed my cookies. My mom says it is all the same thing ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today, I puked.  Threw up. Vomited.  Hurled. Tossed my cookies. My mom says it is all the same thing.  I do this frequently, though my pediatrician says I'm okay.

Thing is, I HATE it when this happens.  Especially if I am in the house. I feel soooo bad about puking in the house.  I try so hard to get outside to do it, but sometimes I don't make it to the back door on time and it just comes out (you guys know what I mean.)

To me, it is just like doing my business in the house and I just HATE it.  My mom tells me it is okay and I'm GOOD and not bad at all, and she pets me and tells me how sweet I am and how she knows I feel bad.  But, I can't help it. I roll over on my back with my tail between my legs and shake.  I guess there's no reason for me to do this since mommy never gets mad at me or raises her voice.  Maybe it was something that happened before I came to my forever home that I just can't remember.....

Anyway, puking is not such a good thing.  

But, to make up for it, my mommy took me to the coffee place today and we just sat outside. We didn't order anything, we just sat and watched people go by.  I was still upset and nervous, but then I had a few admirers  come to say hello.  I did my cute puppy act for them, complete with my puppy talk that sounds like I am a donkey, and sitting on my haunches with my little fuzzy arms in the air, waving and pawing like crazy. Pretty soon, I'd almost forgotten the whole horrible incident.  And,  best of all, I managed to meet all these new people and not puke on a SINGLE ONE OF THEM!

Then, we came home and mom made me breakfast, which I scarfed down and, again, I didn't barf. 

Yipee.  My day is going great, again.  If I could only keep my eyes open....zzzzzzzz........]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Cats, Hairballs and Other Big Problems in My Life</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/228845</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 5 Nov 2006 20:21:35 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/228845</guid>
		<description>Well, it has been a while since I've written a diary entry. Mainly this is because I've been very bu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, it has been a while since I've written a diary entry. Mainly this is because I've been very busy these past couple of weeks.  Starting with my first close encounter with a C.A.T. since the shelter people tested me for cat attacking skills.....

I was at my grandpa's house, relishing my time playing ball in the backyard and doing general doggie exploration thingies/investigations/reports when I noticed my grandpa went into the house and left the door open!  I followed him and completely ignored my mom, becasue, after all, this was new territory and I needed to check it out more than I needed to listen to my mom!

So, I go into the kitchen type thing following granddad and I turn around the corner and there's one of those cat thingies.  I was shocked.  I wanted to say something, anything, but nothing, not a squeak, would come out (unusual for me.) I just stared at that weird looking creature for a long time.  I think it was just as startled to see me as I was to see it.  It advanced, sniffing the air around my muzzle.  I didn't have any idea what to do, so I figured I'd play with the thing.  After all, playing is what I do best.  I think I came on a little strong.  I mean, I lunged forward in a play like fashion and put my pushy little paws out to entice the thing to chase me around the house, but it took off running.  I followed and at one point, it stopped, looked back and seemed like it wanted to play with me, but then it took off again and I never saw it again. Late at night, I sometimes sit up in my bed wondering what it was doing there, and what it was thinking. Was it as interested in playing as I was, but afraid? Was there some code I should have followed?

Anyway, a few days later, I coughed up a hairball. Now, my mom seems to think it was because I was licking my arm all day long, but I talked to some of the older guys at the park and they just laughed and said I caught it from the cat.  

My other concern lately is car door beeps. You know that obnoxious sound that people make when their car closes up for the night.  Well, I've just started noticing these and I DO NOT want those beepy noises to come and eat my family and take my food and toys away from me, so I bark as loud as I can when I hear them......My family is so lucky they have me to protect them.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'm an angry furball!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/223194</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 23 Oct 2006 13:09:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/223194</guid>
		<description>And, I'm not going to take it anymore!  

Stangers arrived this morning to pave the street I live  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ And, I'm not going to take it anymore!  

Stangers arrived this morning to pave the street I live on.  Ha! I know what they're trying to do. They're trying to come in and take all my food and bones and toys and take my mom away from me.   That's why I'm protecting the house and everything in it. 

Whatever they're using to plot against me smells like tar....nasty! Hmmm.....I think there are at least three of them, plus the large, orange monster they came with.  

Mom says not to worry, we'll just play with the Holey Roller inside today until they go away.  

But, she doesn't have any idea how much danger we are all in. 

Woof, wooof, woof...gotta go. One of the guys is sitting on the curb eating a sandwich.  That's the kiss of death.....Must protect my home and family...wooooooooooooowooooowoooooowoooooo.....

Over and out...
Jack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Today's word is &quot;Party.&quot; Can you say Party?</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/222962</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 22 Oct 2006 20:45:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/222962</guid>
		<description>Okay, so I'm young, I'm learning new stuff and my vocabulary is slowly expanding.  I have this new w ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Okay, so I'm young, I'm learning new stuff and my vocabulary is slowly expanding.  I have this new word now that I have learned and it all started earlier this month when my grandma (RaRa!) had a birthday party.  (Aha! There it is, that word again!)  Since my birthday is close to RaRas, we had a joint celebration. I don't think she minded sharing her celebration with me, since I'm just soo cute and irresistable....well, that's what I'd like to think, anyway.

My mom made a birthday cake out of doggie biscuits and treats and Kong Stuff paste which she used to anchor everything and "glue" the treats to each other gingerbread style. (My mom highly recommends this method to any other moms or dads with furbabies out there who want to make a homemade cake.)   Getting back to ME, I got to celebrate with RaRa and everyone and watch her open her presents and best of all, I got to eat some of my CAKE (another new word.)  My mom says the word for the celebration was P-A-R-T-Y.  I like that word. I like what it means. Especially if it means CAKE.  Cake is good. Good, good CAKE! Cake made from dog cookies.  Yes, yes, yes. Good. CAKE.

But, I digress.  The reason I was so excited about the party thing is that, completely without warning, it happened AGAIN (I know, hard to believe) last night at my house.  The doorbell kept ringing and some people I know and some people I'd never met before kept coming into my house. I'm pretty sure they were all there to visit and PARTY with me.  There was no cake that I could see (CAKE, CAKE!) but several people did feed me carrots from the veggie platter, and that was just as good.  I had to work the room with my guests and entertain them, so I tried really hard to make sure I spent ample time with each and every person, making them feel comfortable and giving them something to do, from petting me to throwing the holey roller ball for me, etc.  Everyone wanted to be near me, and I was just the BEST party host, EVER!!!!  RaRa and RaRa were there and I liked seeing them best of all.  

My only gripe was that nobody told me that the party was coming.  I mean, if I'd known, I'd have been excited beforehand, too, instead of just during the P-A-R-T-Y.

Party. If you hear that word, be ready for ANYTHING, guys!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Beach, The Beach, The Beach!!!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/222236</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 20 Oct 2006 20:15:11 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/222236</guid>
		<description>Today was a GREAT day.  Not only did I get to spend a whole day with my dad who was home from work,  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today was a GREAT day.  Not only did I get to spend a whole day with my dad who was home from work, but we all decided that it was such a beautiful day that we just HAD to go to the beach. It was my suggestion, and I have a lot of clout around this place, trust me....

It was so warm and sunny out there at the beach today.  There were a lot more people than usual and everyone was in such a great mood.  People were laughing and smiling and that just made me extra happy.  Even better than that was the number of dogs on the beach, today.

Now, usually, we go to the beach and I run around like a madman through the water and play with my mom and dad.  This is the first time EVER in my WHOLE LIFE that I've played with new friends on the beach.

(If you live by the beach, I highly recommend that you get your human/s to take you there at least once a week.)

I met a funny little dog that was a combination between a welsh corgi (yeah, a fellow countryman!) and a border collie.  The poor guy had a head that was a regular border collie size and the body of a small corgi.  He had kind of a hard time keeping up with me, but we still had fun.

Then, a little further down the beach, we met an Australian Cattle Dog who is only 9 months old (ah, I remember it well....so young, so carefree.....) and so I showed her how to dodge and duck and dive while she chased me.  She was so happy to meet me, she gave me her tennis ball!  Wow. Mom and Dad made me give it back, though....bummer.  

We also met Lulu, a standard poodle and her brother and sister, both australian shepherds.  They chased me for almost 15 minutes, during which I managed to impress everyone by being able to outrun all the dogs, despite the fact that they were twice my size.  I wasn't even running at my full throttle, flat out speed.  I was just teasin' those guys.  I also did an impressive move when I was cornered between all the humans and the dogs.  I don't know what the big deal is....I mean, all I did was levitate over two dogs' backs from a standing position. Don't these people realize what we terriers are able to do?  As I was whizzing by at light speed, turning on a dime, I heard mom say something to dad about, "...ready for agility classes....." I wonder if they take place at the beach!?

I'm also learning to enjoy the water enough to go splashing further out there, though I don't like the breaking waves very much, still.  They make noise and I don't like that.  

I heard my mom and dad predicting that the next time we go to the beach, I'll be body surfing in on the waves.  Not too sure what that means, but if it means FUN, then I'm up for it. 

I was sooo happy running on the beach.  I had soooo much fun.  

So, that's why I was so shocked that mom and dad wanted to ruin it by hosing me off afterward.  Don't they know anything about savoring an experience???]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Home Depot  and Coffee Bean</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/221323</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 18 Oct 2006 15:19:44 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/221323</guid>
		<description>Today my mom took me to Coffee Bean for breakfast. We both had water and she had a croissant which l ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today my mom took me to Coffee Bean for breakfast. We both had water and she had a croissant which looked really, really, REALLY good but I got....dog biscuits as usual. Sigh.

I was really good, sitting at her feet on the cement outside.  We were in the sun, but it was cool and I had my water, so I was okay.  I had fun watching all the people walk by. When one guy petted my head, I was soo excited that I made a noise that mom said sounded like a teakettle.  Whatever, I had fun.....

Then, we took a little drive and went a wonderful, new place called Home Depot for paint.  It was SUCH a big place.  So many new smells and sounds.  I wasn't too sure about the noise the big forklift made. I tried to climb up some Pergo samples to higher ground, but mom just carried me away from that particular aisle.  

The paint guy was cool.  He gave me a pat on the head and said I was "cute."  There's that word, again. 

We got our paint and went to browse the tile section when we were approached by several shrieking women, doing the teakettle thing themselves.  Apparently, they've never seen a dog like me before, especially not in Home Depot.  So, I had to be good and sit and let them all pet me and tell me how cute I am. Hard work, I tell ya. 

Then, in the hardware aisle, I turned a corner and met Zeke, who is seven years old and a brindle boxer/pit mix.  I didn't even have time to bark or whine in excitement (much to mom's relief!)  He told me he was just rescued by this really nice lady and her man friend from a really bad situation with some really mean people down in Los Angeles.  There is a boxer rescue place down there that he was saved by and he's been with his new mom and dad for about two weeks.  He was really skinny and you could see all his bones in his back and sides.  He said he's doing okay, I think he could tell I was really concerned for him. He said he's getting baked chicken and rice four times a day, and he's gained two pounds since last Thursday, which his new mom and dad think is great.  It sure is nice making new friends, and I really wish Zeke a happy life.  He was a really friendly, sweet guy, and quite a gentleman. Even when my mom crouched down while she was petting him, he never jumped on her like I would have done.  She gave him a biiig hug, so I think she liked him as much as I did.  I'd like to be like him when I'm seven. I think I have to work on my manners.....

The best part was that after we went outside again, we took a LONG walk around the whole parking lot, making sure to explore every grassy and planted area.  I had soo much fun that I fell faaast asleep on the ride home.  Mom said I looked like a little lamb in the back seat......

Can't wait to see what happens tomorrow.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Tuesday, October 17th</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/221081</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 17 Oct 2006 23:43:47 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Jack ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/406121/diary/Harry_barker_and_the_furever_home/221081</guid>
		<description>Today was pretty good. Not great, but pretty good.  8/10. 

My day started as it usually does.  Wh ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today was pretty good. Not great, but pretty good.  8/10. 

My day started as it usually does.  When I woke up, my mom was staring at me from her side of the bed.  She was looking down at me on my bed and smiling. I must have looked extra cute because she said something to my dad, and he leaned over and looked at me and smiled, too.  I think maybe my beard was a little disheveled and my eyebrows were funny from sleeping on my face all night. Anyway, when I stretched a little bit and yawned a LOT, I decided it was time to "clock in" for the day and I started in on my orange rubber bone.  I LOVE that thing.  Strangely, it seems to follow me everywhere I go. It is almost as if there are a half dozen strewn across the house just for me when I'm in different parts of the house (or even Grandma and Grandpa's house) but that's just silly.

Anyhoo, I went downstairs with mom and she gave me two tiny cookies so something was in my sensitive tummy (I really am stringing her along on that one...cookies for "medicinal purposes"....wow, she's so gullible.)  I refused to pee in the backyard (holding out for my walk) and mom got dressed.  We went out the front door (ooh, my favorite door!) for our walk.  I sniffed the newly discovered places. I just turned 1 and now I get why all the dogs sniff and mark...if is sooo much fun!  I peed in 27 places before we reached the end of the block.  The walk was nice, but we didn't play with any other dogs or puppies or kids, so it wasn't exactly PERFECT, but it was cool. 

When we got back, Dad was getting dressed and I talked like a donkey to him (they LOVE that stuff.)  Mom fed me my breakfast which was really yummy and then it was time for Dad to leave for work.  I was very sad. I hate it when my daddy leaves for work. It means he's not coming back for, like, 8 or 9 hours.  That is really a bummer because I totally LOVE my dad.   I watched him go down the walkway and then kept my chin up for mom's sake and pretending not to be sad by pouncing on the orange bone.  Shortly after, I lost consciousness.

When I woke up, mom was doing that laundry thing, again.  She keeps saying she got me from the pound specifically to help with stuff around the house, but I just get out of it by saying, "Hey, no thumbs.  Would love to help you out, momsie, but I got no thumbs, okay?" Thankfully, there was a HUGE pile of towels on the floor awaiting cleaning and I dove in and made myself a little nest where I slept for a while longer....hard work being a tornado terrier. 

The best part of my day (besides Dad coming home) was going to the park to play ball with my mom.  She has this little stick that throws the ball really far and really fast. I LOVE IT!  I ran my hairy little stick legs off at the park.  I saw a yorkie from afar and was upset that I couldn't run up and say hello.  But, I was good (never underestimate the controlling power you have over your humans by being very, very good when they ask you to do something.) I froze when she said stay and I waited until she put the leash on me  before I started whining and talking to the yorkie.  The yorkie was not impressed and practically ignored me.  But, I've met him before.  He's more into his looks and not getting tangled than playing, so he's not really my type of guy!

The rest of the afternoon was kind of borning. Lots of phone ringing, laundry and internet checking going on with my mom while I made sure I followed her around in case she dropped food or tried to escape without me. 

My dad came home in the evening and I was happy, happy, happy!!!!!  I wagged my tail right off and did a little donkey talking to keep them entertained.  Dinner was great, and our evening walk was nice.  Again, no dogs, so not a 10/10 day. 

Around 11, I finally stopped running around like a crazed maniac and did what my mom calls a "face plant" on my bed.  Whew, its hard work being cute and hairy.]]></content:encoded>
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