The Adventures of a Farm Dog Leading a Charmed Life

Petunia G- Not a B

Where to begin? I thought the evil bow was bad. Then, my regular groomer dresses me up like a bee- which would be humiliating enough. However, when you consider that it was possibly a stinging insect that caused my IMHA, then it's beyond beyond unfathomable wrongitude. You see my wrath has turned my lovely eyes into lasers. Grrrrrr to you, Groomer.

A warning to my fellow farm dogs!

Don't let this happen to you! I've been vacationing in the cool and lovely Smoky Mountains of NC- which is actually a pretty nice place to summer. That's not the problem. The problem began when Mama took me to the local groomers to ameliorate the natural fragrance (quite nice I thought) of doggy walks in the wilderness (woods and streams) for the past several weeks. You see what they did to me in my profile pic! I have NEVER EVER been bebowed in my life. Thank goodness we're traveling and the animals around the farm can't see this! The shame/ horror of it all! Be comforted, my furiends, that my Daddy rescued me from the evil pink bow (after laughing at me), leaving only the nasty aroma of "clean dog" and indignation. Grrrr.

Rest in peace, Frank McCourt.

Mama says few have your gift for memorable poignant storytelling.

All is well!

So my cytology/ culture results came back and everything appeared normal! Yay. Now, if only my fur would grow back faster on my right front leg that was shaved for the bronchoscopy procedure IV. I look like a poodle on the lam from the groomer's.

Home again, home again, jiggedy jig!

Daddy brought me home this morning. When Mama drove through the gate. I was chasing a squirrel so intently, she had to honk the horn for me to stop and jump in the back seat. After Mama finished petting and making a fuss over me, she read the four pages or so of info. from Dr. Goldman. I have been diagnosed with brachcephalic syndrome (mild chronic bronchitis/ chronic airway disease) which is kinda weird because I don't appear to be a Boston terrier, bull dog or pug- but I do not remember my biological parents- so who knows? In any case, my condition is manageable- which makes us both very happy and relieved. With my IMHA, we have become surprisingly, increasingly comfortable with manageable/ treatable even when that may not mean curable. Right now, I am having a little nap in the air conditioning while my typist informs my pals of my progress. Many thanks to all my Dogster friends for their encouraging, caring barks and woofs. Special thanks to the Purple Girls, Miss Gussie Finknottle, Chester, Monty, Maggie, Berni, Alfie, Darby and Precious. If my typist has omitted anydog- and she probably has- [good help is so hard to find]- it is all her fault and she will be forced to issue a public apology later. Happy Thursday, all!

Yippee!

Petunia- checking in. I'm staying in the hospital overnight following my procedures but Mama just got some great news! After a bronchoscopy/ radiograph/ chemistry profile among other things, Dr. Goldman of SC Veterinary Specialists in Columbia observed no masses requiring biopsy in my larynx or lungs- just some inflammation/ irritation most likely resulting from allergies which are easily treatable. Cytology/ pathology results are not back yet- but she seemed to think all will be well. Kidney function is fine! Yippee! Power of the Paw is a wonderful thing. Thanks all!

Appointment arranged with veterinary specialist in Columbia

So, I'm going to a different vet next Wednesday, May 13th to try to determine what's going on with my throat and my kidney function exactly (even though my snoring/ swallowing are improved). Paws are crossed that Dr. Goldman, an internal medicine specialist, will help me to continue to enjoy my quality of life for years to come. Thanks for your continued prayers/ pawsitive thoughts!

Feeling better, we think : )

So, it would appear that the meds are helping. My snoring and snorting are almost imperceptible now. I'm not struggling with eating my food- although Mama is continuing to add water to my dry food to promote drama-free swallowing. Since the meds seem to be helping, the regular vet has said to hold off on the specialist for now- and unwarranted/ risky invasive procedures. Thanks all for the power of the paw prayers and thoughts. Mama is still worried but it is helping that I'm not behaving like a sick dog for the time being.

second visit to the vet this month

Feeling puny/ groggy. I am having issues with my throat. Coughing up food, snoring like a freight train, snorting like a piggy and scaring Mama with reverse sneezing attacks during which I can't breathe. The vet put me under anesthesia to look down my throat. Part of my larynx is swollen- could be a benign cyst- or something else. He referred me to an internal medicine specialist in Columbia, upped my dose of prednisone significantly and substituted a different antibiotic. To say Mama is very worried is a polite understatement. Any prayers/ power of the paw appreciated.

Happy Barkday to ME!

It's been a good day. I had some extra treats and the weather's been great outside. My barkday wish is for research that results in a cure/ prevention of IMHA. Oh, and my other wish is that my Daddy stop "singing" that birthday song when he passes me. I keep thinking he's in distress. BOL!

Just doing my job

So a "foreign" (and possibly terrorist) feline illegally entered my yard. It was my canine civic duty to bitch bark it up the nearest tree and to begin interrogating it at the base of said tree shortly after 5:00 AM yesterday morning. Mama called and called but I was undeterred- certain she did not grasp the urgency of the matter at paw or in the arbor at least. I was happy to see her bringing my leash because I figured she'd lasso the trespasser. Imagine my shock when she clipped it to my collar and tried to lure me away with treats. What? Couldn't she see the white she devil mocking me in the branches. I couldn't leave her there. I let Mama get halfway back to the house- and slipped my collar. I returned to barking at the tree. Mama went inside and got her car keys. When she drove towards the tree, I thought good idea- we'll drive it up the tree and grab the cat. I hopped in the back- and she snapped my collar back on. What? She drove to the car port away from the offending intruder. She then (somehow) managed to get me in the house and kept me there (under house arrest like a common criminal cat) until the invader made its escape. Grrrr.

A bone (of contention) concerning the recent famous dog poll

How could you leave out the greatest canine thespian of the last century? And what about a certain debonair fox terrier? For serious, I found the poll's omissions appawling.

It's a dirty trick- this growing old

So Mama pulls into the driveway returning home from "Work" (the evil place for which she abandons me five days per week). I do my exuberant run around the yard scattering birds and all manner of potential hazards to my peeps. Mama is very impressed by my agility. For a brief moment, I am a graceful 3 or 4 year old with plenty of energy and stamina. However, when she opens the car door, I am gasping and sputtering from overexerting myself. Mama massages under my muzzle and tries to soothe and reassure me that it's okay, but I'm kind of embarrassed. I like to earn my keep in these difficult economic times. I'm not some sissy, girly dog riding around in my Mama's purse (not that there's anything wrong with that). Mama looks a bit sad. She worries about me and the toll the prednisone (for the IMHA) is taking on my body. The spirit is indeed willing but the flesh is weak. I feel like a nap now. Stay warm, pups, and enjoy your exuberant puppyhood while you still can.

Continuing the fight against a serious canine adversary

Readers probably already know I was diagnosed over a year ago with a serious, mysterious, life-altering ailment called immune mediated hemolytic anemia over a year ago. I'm doing okay with my current regimen of regular meds. What you may not know is how to help fund research for prevention/ a cure of this life-threatening condition which afflicts too many doggies. Click here to find out how to help with IMHA/ AIHA research. Bark on my fellow IMHA warriors.

PS If you remove %20 that keeps appearing between "de" & "votion" in your browser window, the hyperlink will work.

Welcome Ozzy!

OMD! Have you seen my adorable cousin, Ozzy? What a cutie patootie! Please, join me in welcoming this little one to Dogster.

Rest in Peace, LeRoi Moore.

We will enjoy his musical gift forever. Dave Matthews Band will never be what it was without this wonderfully talented saxophonist.

Hmmm? Something doesn't smell right around here.

Thanks for all the stinky collars. I guess a decomposing rat/ rotting snake collar would cost serious zealies. Off to search for something in which to wallow to combat that fresh scent.

Ginormous mountain dogs

You would not believe the doggies around here. They have funny neighing barks and are literally big enough for my daddy to ride. I like to just stare at these big dogs when I go for walks. One woofed at me and ran up to the fence to get closer- but Mama did not let me make friends/ nor bitch bark it into next week, as I would have if I had been off leash. Mama said the name of the breed of dog is called a horsey. Hmmmmm. Looks like it would take a whole bag of Canidae just to give it dinner. My pawrents are lucky to have a more petite mutt doggie like myself in the midst of the recent economic downturn, I think.

Ruh roh.

Oh dear, the indignity of it all. I had an attack of the splarts/ bazooka poops on my walk with Grandma. All three humans (but mostly Daddy) helped clean me up in the creek with antibacterial wipes, shampoo and paper towels. That water was coooold- brrrrr. Not sure if it was the Heartgard Plus or the canned Canidae or what. So far, my case of runny squirts seems to have subsided. Keep your paws crossed that my system returns to firm/ normal.

Notes to Myself

Just a reminder- today, Mama gave me my monthly doses of Frontline Plus and Heartgard Plus. Don't forget to readminister by August 1st. Also, somebody needs to give Grandma a me-sized piece of luggage in which to smuggle myself home with her. She truly appreciates me. I lurve Grandma. I will be sad if I fail to convince her to stay here in the mountains with me and she decides to return to Virginia.

my no good terrible very bad day or was it a dream?

So the last thing I remember before I came to was being held in the jail (without dinner) at the vet's house of horrors. The next thing I knew I was all woozy and slow and sleepy. Another thing, too, the always beautious dog I see in the glass, now has white, and I mean glaring white, teeth. I'm not sure but I think I had a potty accident in the car on the way home (something I've never done)- but no evidence this morning- so maybe I dreamed it. I napped most of the evening until there was a bad thunderstorm that made everything go dark. Mama does not like the dark and neither do I. The lights came back on about midnight. This morning I'm feeling well rested and less weird. I'm almost ready to decide it was all a dream- and yet, what's up with the gleaming choppers? This is PG signing off from the twilight zone.

Mama is acting weird.

Mama is being excessively clingy which means one of two things- she's going somewhere or I'm going somewhere. I went to the Vampire vet just last week- and all was well- except he said some uncomplimentary things about my choppers. I admit I don't floss. Will keep you puppers posted. Until then, I'll enjoy being the pampered princess I was meant to be.

A Special Request

As some of you Dogsters know, I was diagnosed with IMHA/ AIHA (immune mediated hemolytic anemia) last summer. I'm doing okay with the meds and frequent vet checks. I am more vulnerable to infections because of the prednisone that I continue to take to guard against the anemia. I was treated successfully just last month for a UTI that disquieted my mum quite a bit. I cannot stress enough that being alert to the symptoms of this disease can SAVE YOUR FURRY FAMILY MEMBER'S LIFE! If your furbaby suddenly seems tired/ weak, is panting incessantly, is refusing to eat his/ her favorite food but is drinking excessively, has faded or jaundiced gums and has a fever, get thee to a vet posthaste!

May brings annifursaries to special friends of mine, Angel Mica and her furkin Mirra. Mica was taken too soon from her family by IMHA and her humom has become a tireless worker in the quest to find a cure. There are too many others (besides me) who have also been affected like Daisy Mae but so far the hope of prevention/ cure is still not a reality. Research is difficult because it's not breed or gender specific, causation is elusive and it's ubiquitous.

Last year there was a contest between Mica and an anonymous GSD, another Dogster, to see who could get the most pup pal requests and be corraled the most times in a specific length of time. However, they could not promote themselves on Dogster (but their friends could). Last year the GSD won and the money went to his cause of supporting awareness for canine blood donors.

There is another contest this year and if you aren't already pals with or haven't corralled them, please for the love of DOG! (especially those touched & affected by IMHA) do make their acquaintances and support what has become a worthy crusade to try to prevent others from experiencing their pain and loss.

With other dogsters like Lena Malik, I am advocating for Angel Mica, (she must be first in request order) Mirra and The Purple Girls Of Oregon. There is no cost to you except a little bit of your time. Just click on their names below:

Angel Mica

Mirra

the purple girls of oregon

Thank you for your support and concern for "The Girls of May" and the other dogs and pawrents battling this mysterious evil disease.

4 things game

There is a new game on Dogster...
Here are the rules:

Give 4 answers for each category.

**************************************
Name Four Jobs You Have

1.I must sound the alarm bark when Mr. Fox visits the henhouse at night.
2.I must supervise the chef during breakfast and dinner.
3.I must guard Bear Bear (or the squeaky toy du jour).
4.I must rudely sniff the cat until she flees.


Name Four Places You Have Lived

1. the wild (before I wandered onto the farm)
2. the animal hospital (I call it the veterinary penitentiary) once when I was fixed, once when I ate rat poison and once when I was diagnosed with AIHA/ IMHA
3. the cabin in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina
4. here on the farm in Ruby, South Carolina

Name Four Places You Have Been

1. the Pheil House in Flowery Branch, GA
2. Sandy Crest Kennel Groomers in Chesterfield, SC
3. my mama's old classroom (when I helped her move)
4. Assorted Drive thru fine dining establishments in SC/ NC


Name Four Places You Would Rather Be:

1. in a pond chasing ducks/ geese
2. In the car going for a ride
3. in the back field surveying the borders
4. anywhere with my peeps


Now I'll ask four friends to do the same.
Leroy Hatsis
Atticus
Gussie Finknottle
Dakota

Back from the Vampire Jail

So, Mama got all worked up and worried when I had an alleged (I take the fifth) piddle accident on the rug in her office between 2:30 and 5:30 this morning. I was also panting and refused to eat. So she immediately feared that I might be anemic again (even though I'm still taking the prednisone). She left school early to whisk me to the vampire vet office and left me there in jail (this seems extreme punishment for an unproven pup puddle violation). Anyhoo, it turned out my red blood cell count was fine. I did have a urinary tract infection for which he prescribed an antibiotic. Mama is so relieved it was nothing more serious. Somehow, even though I've been dieting, I gained two more pounds. Grrrr. To quote a fellow dogster, I'm not fat. I'm poofy.

It's April 1st!

¡sɹəʇsƃop llɐ oʇ ʎɐp s,looɟ lıɹdɐ ʎddɐɥ

Thanks for the barkday cake, Stormie : )

Tomorrow I turn seven!

Yes, I must announce today that my observed birthday is tomorrow because if I say it tomorrow you might not believe me. (Thanks Mum for appointing a crazy date for my Barkday). Anyhoo, thanks to my furiends who gave me gifts just to be furiendly (that would be Stormie, the Rahkantra family, Molly, Yoshi, Toby, Gussie F. and Duncan). Perhaps after my barkday, I will have some zealies to bestow on my pawsome buds.

I am NOT your valentine, vampire vet!

So of all the places one might take their canine sweetie on one of the sweetest days of the year, my pawrent decides to take me to Sandhills Animal Hospital on Valentine's Day. Grrrrrrrrrr. She said she wanted to make sure my red blood count is still good (it was) and get my prescriptions for Heartgard and prednisone refilled (she did). Then the evil vet procedes to add insult to injury (as if poking me with a needle wasn't bad enough) by saying I'm FAT! I only gained 5 pounds. A girl needs sustenance and things that taste yummy. But no, he says I need a lower fat diet and no more table scraps! GRRRRRRRRRR. So if any of you doggies would take pity on a poor middle aged wasting away to nothing shadow of her former self, please send your spare bits of bacon to my corner of the world. Gotta run before the bipeds spot me typing on Mama's MacBook. For some reason, she has a problem with my pawprints on the keyboard. Go figure. Hope you pups had a better Valentine's Day than me.

Happy Howlidaze!

So the pawrents have tried and tried to take a seasonal pic of me with all manner of props including stockings, Santa hats and reindog antlers for the Christmas card to no avail. I have steadfastly refused to look "festive" since they announced that I would not be going with them to Grandma's for the howlidays. On the up side, I have made Mama feel so guilty about it that she has petitioned Santa Paws for extra special presents for me. Must return to pouting now. Happy Christmahanukwanzukah to all!

Emergency Visit to Groomer

So I was having a pretty good morning, and the pawrents invited me inside for some breakfast when the bipeds started to scrunch up their noses in the way they do sometimes when something smells (really yummy to me like eau de dead mole but somewhat distasteful to them). That's when breakfast was moved to the porch outside, and Mama hypothesized that I must have the splarts or something. Anyhowl, Daddy called the groomers after cleaning up the feathers surrounding my personal area as best he could. He actually clipped some of the yuckier fur clean off. It was a bit embarrassing, but I stood still like a good girl despite the indignity of it all. Now, I'm all clean and shiny again after an hour or so at the groomers despite my best evasive maneuvers.

My Weekend in the Mountains

So, Mama loaded our stuff into my Honda Civic chariot in the pouring rain, and we were off. After two hours of travel through miserable downpours with very poor visibility, Mama stopped at a gas station. I had to piddle under Mama's umbrella near a bush. Almost immediately after that, it stopped raining. Oh well, I don't mind getting my fur do wet. The damp formed lovely natural waves. So after another two hours of fairly heavy traffic, we finally arrived at the cabin in Waynesville, NC. Yay! Daddy was there (and the stream and all the mountain smells). Then, the other people arrived. My Grandma, Uncle, Aunt Deborah, Kim, Lenny and Lynda all came to see me. All weekend, I just flitted from one person to the next getting pets and belly rubs. It was a grand getaway. Sunday, we had better weather for our return to the Jewel City. Mama said I was a very good girl and is seriously considering taking me to Grandma's for Christmas. Keep your paws crossed for me. I love Grandma.

Great News!

So Mama took me to visit 'The Man/ Vampire/ Vet" to find out my current red blood cell count. Yippee, it was 50! He couldn't believe it. I gained four pounds, too. He said I'd be just fine. I'm loving these cooler mornings, too. When Mama's leaving for school, I just want her to stay and play with me.

My New Diet

So, Mama read somewhere that a grain-free diet could help with incontinence. She's been feeding me yummy Innova Evo large bites dog food for over a week now- and no accidents so far since August 18th. I don't have to stay in my room (cell) anymore. It's back to being Mama's office without plastic on the floor. I'm playing more and acting more like my former self. Keep your paws crossed that I will continue to be well.

Grandma Loves Me and I Love Grandma

I was lying under the kitchen table this morning trying to look cute/ well-behaved/ pitiful enough to get a bit of bacon when Grandma from Virginia called to check on me. Grandma came to visit me back when I was newly sick. She helped take care of me, walked me, petted me, rode with me to the vet and best of all let me eat off her paper plate. Mama was happy to give her a good report- no accidents since last Saturday and lots of energy. Thanks, Grandma. I look forward to your next call/ visit.

Bummed

Mama and I are sort of down about my recent incontinence. I had two piddle accidents today- one asleep and one sleepy- on the plastic covering my room (also known as Mama's former office). Mama cleaned it and me without any fuss. However, it is a bit depressing to experience my decline since starting the prednisone that keeps my red blood count from falling too low. I was perfectly house-trained until two weeks ago- no tinkle mistakes even as a puppy. AIHA/ IMHA can be a real bummer. We'll just try to keep making the best of it.

Life Is Good

No upset tummy and no tinkling accidents. I'm feeling so much better. We'll see what the vet says on Saturday about my red blood cell count.

Back from the vet AGAIN.

Yay! My red blood cell count is NORMAL (40). Mama took me to see the Man again because between the prednisone, the cephalexin and the reglan, I'm behaving strangely (peeing in odd places / in my sleep and panting/ wheezing/reverse sneezing at rest indoors). While I'm glad that my anemia is better, I am not happy that Mama has rolled up the rug and sequestered me in her office in case I have another confusing sleep wetting incident. I'm not sure I'd be as unhappy with the 114 degree heat index outdoors as a free dog. However, she is refusing to listen to my arguments and is keeping me in the 77 degree air conditioning. Thanks for the continued pawsitive thoughts, Dogsters.

Love Tagged : )

I was tagged by Cherokee. Here are the rules of the game. Make a diary entry, giving 5 pawsome facts about yourself. Choose 5 pals to tag and list them last. Post the rules of the game. Send your pals a pawmail or rosette telling them they have been tagged to play the game. Write 5 facts and tag 5 friends.

1. Mama says my Indian name is Stands in the Crick and Sniffs since that is what I do when we visit the cabin in the Smoky Mountains.

2. Even though I've recently been diagnosed with autoimmune hemolytic anemia, I still give the roosters in my yard whatfor when I get the chance.

3. I am drinking water like a fish today.

4. I like to nap in front of the loveseat in the living room because it has a soft rug and is near the air conditioning vent.

5. I want one of those new Michael Vick chew toys.

I tag:
1. Leroy Hatsis, Airport Dog who seems to actually like kitties.

2. Gussie Finknottle, who I nominate for Alpha Dog of the Week for making Mama laugh.

3. Jasmine, a more elegant version of me.

4. Petunia Grace, a beautiful bulldog with a beautiful name.

5. Casey, the Super Dog, who first invited me to join the Super Dog group.

Back From the (Not So) Evil Vet

I was very nervous about going back to that ...detention center... with the sharp pokey things and IV bags that left me looking like an unsuccessful initiate of a poofy poodle gang. My red blood count was 26- a little better than Wednesday. Mama and I were both relieved to be just visiting today. I was feeling chipper enough to give a rooster whatfor when I got back home. I was also puny enough to spend most of the rest of my time napping indoors. It's only a million degrees Celsius outside. I don't understand how they can call these the dog days of summer. Stay cool fellow Dogsters and stay well.

Home Again, Home Again, Jiggety Jig!

Just back from the animal hospital with a little bandage on my funny-looking shaved right front leg from the IV and three prescription meds. I'm in my favorite napping spot taking it easy. It's good to be home. Thanks for all the kind messages of encouragement. Red blood cell count is 25 and needs to be 37- but we're hoping RBC will continue to improve with current regimen. Keep those pawsitive thoughts coming.

Being sick sucks.

Mama and Daddy noticed I wasn't myself- not eating, lethargic, elevated respiration. So she took me back to the evil vet. He took my temperature, heart rate and blood. Later that day, he gave Mama the diagnosis- autoimmune hemolytic anemia- a very serious illness. I'm still in the hospital with an IV bag attached to my paw. When Mama came to visit, I was ready to go home, but she left me there. The vet says I will be in the hospital for a few more days. He also says I will have to take prednisone the rest of my life. Mama was very upset yesterday, and still misses me, but is encouraged that this disease is treatable. We appreciate any pawrent/ puppy prayers and good thoughts. Thanks.

Summertime and the livin' is busy.

So, as of June 3rd, Mama stopped driving off to school every morning. She took me to see the evil ear cleaner/ needle injector/ vet on June 5th for my annual exam. He said I gained three pounds, but I am in good shape. He did say uncomplimentary things about my smile (admittedly I do neglect to floss after meals sometimes), but no parasites, etc. Mama was pleased that there were no pupparazzi in the office when I arrived. However, on leaving, there was an unpleasant exchange of woofs with a cheeky chihuahua in the waiting room. All I can say is that little rodent/ dog started it. Grrrrr. We have also taken several road trips in my Honda Civic chariot that did not involve any foreign objects being inserted in any orafices/ below my fur- which is always a good thing as far as I'm concerned. Yesterday, Mama had the audacity to leave me here while she went galavanting off to Southern Pines, NC. She did bring me some yummy treats from Deka's Doghouse Pantry- and I will forgive her one day- but I'm not done pouting about being left behind yet. I heartily recommend the puppy-shaped peanut butter treats by the way.

Tag!

This sounds like a lot of fun!!!

I was tagged by Leroy and Oliver!

Here are the rules (Hint: Copy and paste the rules so you don't have to type them again):

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!

So here are 7 fun facts about me...

1. I am an escape artist when it comes to wearing Doggles. My best time pulling them off is under five seconds.
2. I've never had a potty accident.
3. I love to ride the Mule (golf cart on steroids).
4. I love to swim in my ponds.
5. I'm beginning to accept that I'll never be Dog of the Day.
6. I love strawberries and peanut butter.
7. I love George Stephanopoulos, Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert.

I am tagging these 7 pals.....

1. Atticus
2. Boo
3. Lady
4. Gussie Finknottle
5. Xena
6. Skye
7. Petunia Grace, the pretty bulldog
Thanks and have fun........love Petunia Grace

Back from the doggie spa

Just got back from Laurie's, and my fur is soft and shiny. Unfortunately, she sprayed me with that stinky stuff. It could take days of wallowing to get rid of that flowery fragrance. My name is not Rose or Hyacinth. Petunias are not supposed to smell "good." Bother.

Petunia's Dogue Beauty Secrets

When asked about my gorgeous face, I often attribute it to favorable lighting, camera filters or genetic good fortune. However, I am feeling full of the milk of canine kindness on this, my sixth birthday, and am finally willing to divulge a few beauty secrets to my fellow dogsters. An avowed party pooch, I have been known to stay up barking into the wee hours with my friends. However, it is absolutely crucial to get the proper amount of rest- seventeen hours minimum daily- and lots of water- I prefer scummy ponds, muddy puddles or swamp water, but fancy bottled French water will do for you poor city dogs. Yes, I do have a professional groomer, and encourage all to see their family veterinarian at least annually. Nothing like a case of rabies or heart worms to destroy that canine glow. However, the real key to looking and smelling one's best are dips/ swims in the scummy pond's healing waters. For those times when I can't get away to the swamps, I make due with a restorative mud pack or poopie wallow. There's nothing like a quick roll in fresh raccoon scat to make one feel like a young, uninhibited pupster again. Spring is definitely in the air and its fragrance is that "Je ne sais quoi" of canine confidence.

The sky is falling!

And it's turning the roof and the ground white. By the way, the sky is very cold when it lands on your nose and fur. It must be a very serious situation because Mama didn't even go to school today. She doesn't seem upset. However, she did insist that I lay by the fire inside. I think she finds me soothing in a crisis. I will keep you doggies updated on any further developments. Right now, I'm feeling kind of sleepy.

Letter to Santa Paws

Dear Santa,
I have been a pretty good dog this year. No, I didn't come when I was called right away all the time. Sometimes, I forgot to not chase my little kitty sister, Phoebe (who, it should be noted, was a whiney brat most of the time). Quite often I could not resist sniffing around the trash when no bipeds were in sight. I consistently did my whirley dance with the furdryer at the groomer's. However, I did help to make my Mama feel better during one of the saddest times in her life - when my Grandpa left this world in an accident. So I hope you will take this information into consideration when you make your Christmas deliveries. I don't want too much- just a new squeaky toy to destroy and some people food-like treats, if you can manage it. I promise not to bark at you when you visit- but you may want to leave your reindeer on the other side of the fence. Even good dogs have their limits. Oh, and another thing- please, help all the other good doggies of the world find happy forever homes with good food, warm beds, time and space to play and vet care to keep them well. Thanks for your time and attention, Santa Paws. Happy Howlidays to you and yours.

Woofs, wags and doggie kisses,
Petunia Grace Pheil

Welcome autumn!

Long time, no bark. Just had to woof about the wonderful cooler weather. Mama says she hasn't seen me this hyper since I was a pup. Spent the morning running around like a crazy dog. Hope all you dogster doggies are having a happy weekend, as well.

On not having the best summer so far

The last day of school for my Mama the teacher was May 26th. She was very excited about spending more time at home with me. Then, Daddy got a phone call from my Uncle Gene in Virginia that changed everything on Saturday, May 27th. Mama's Daddy had been having a great day fishing- catching the largest brim ever seen in his nearby pond - when he apparently lost consciousness and fell head first in the shallow water. He broke the top two vertebrae in his neck and was without oxygen for 20 minutes before being resuscitated by paramedics. He had a very strong heartbeat and was taken to MCV Medical Center in Richmond. My Mama and Daddy left me with my buddy, John, and drove to Richmond to gather with her Mama, his wife of 45 years, brother, sister, nieces, uncles and aunts around her Daddy's bedside in intensive care. His injuries were too severe and doctors gave no hope of recovery. They assured us that he did not suffer never knowing what happened. He was removed from the respirator and departed this life surrounded by family on Sunday, May 28th. Mama and Daddy came back after the funeral on June 3rd, and I was glad to see them and vice versa. However, Mama seems different- quieter than I remember. She says next week we're finally taking our trip to the mountains. Looking forward to the cool stream by the cabin. So, you might not hear any woofs from me for a little while. Any positive thoughts/ prayers for my Mama and family are much appreciated this Father's Day. Thanks to all Dogster pals for letting me bark about this.

Petunia Grace, fourth granddaughter of E. M. Harrell

It's Petunia the Super Puppy on the Run

My mama finally put some of my pictures from when I was a wee pup on a disc. So, at last Dogsters can see what a cutie patootie I was when I was about two months old. Mama keeps saying, "Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww." At least she promised not to put my awkward teenager photos up.

Happy Birthday to Me!

It's no April Fool's joke. I'm five today! My mean mama won't let me open my present until Papa gets home from Florida later today. In the meantime maybe I can coax her into giving me some ice cream. Happy weekend to all Dogsters!

Second Reigning Superdog Mascot, HRH Petunia Grace

the holidays

I enjoyed a lazy Christmas and New Year's with my pack of humans. Santa Paws brought me a really big Orvis wooly chew bone pictured here:
http://www.orvis.com/store/product_choice.asp?pf_id=0 3PB&dir_id=1173&group_id=1188&cat_id=5391&subcat_id=6429
I even got to eat a little turkey on Christmas Day. Mama actually brought me inside the house with them New Year's Eve because of all the fireworks in the surrounding territories. I was all set to scare every one of them away with my ferocious crazy dog barking strategy, but Mama acted like she wasn't scared and lured me into the house with some treats. After sniffing everything out, I laid down and slept all night. I wish all my fellow doggies a peaceful but playful 2006.

That clean dog smell

Mama took me to Lori's pet spa again. I've tried to get rid of that annoying fresh scent. However, there's just nothing sufficiently disgusting in which to wallow in my yard at the moment. Also, Mama can't seem to walk by me without saying how pretty I look (using silly cutesy baby talk). Grrrrrrrr.

Jewel City Jubilee

Mama and I are going for a ride later. She says if I behave she might let me walk around on leash around the happenings at Ruby today. We'll see.

I'm back!

After a long journey, I have returned. It's good to be home. I love my big yard and my job as guardian. The mountains were a bit of a downer- too much rain and not enough work (only one snake the whole time). No more vacations for me. I find it too stressful.

All spiffed up and some place to go!

Yesterday, I went to the spa and got my hair and nails done. When I got back, Daddy went on about how pretty I looked & smelled. I tried to find a dead mole to wallow on, but I could not. Today, I was looking sad while watching my parents load both cars. Then, I realized Mama's taking me with her to the cabin in the mountains. We went there last year. I like it even though my yard won't be as big because it so much cooler there. So, I'm not looking sad now. I'm ready to go!

My really horrible no good bad day

I suppose it wasn't that bad but I'm accustomed to nothing but fabulous days. Mama wouldn't give me any breakfast and I was sooooo hungry. Mama took me to the doggie dentist in Hartsville. I was kinda scared when they took me away from Mama. Then I napped. When I woke up, my teeth were really lovely and I was really drunk. I felt all woozy and wobbly. I didn't like that. I don't think Mama did either. I napped some more at home, and ate and drank a little bit. This morning I'm back to my old self- except for my brighter smile.

Another slithering trespasser

Mama and Daddy were eating dinner when I started my crazy dog alarm bark because of one of those evil slithery things. Even my scaredy cat little sister, Phoebe was hissing at it. Mama immediately ran outside and called, "Petunia, go for a ride." Well, I much prefer a ride to the company of slithery things- as entertaining as they are. We went on a very short ride around the country block. I'm not sure but I think I heard something like Daddy's shooting stick making a loud cracking noise. Glad I wasn't there. I don't like that noise at all. When I got back, I sniffed around but there was no slitherer to be found. Go figure.

Much better

I'm feeling more like a farm dog today because my Daddy (unbeknownst to Mama) let me wade in the pond. I managed to get rid of some of that annoying clean smell. Daddy's the best human I can think of for letting me do fun stuff.

A morning at the doggie spa

Mama took me to Lori's to have my hair and nails done. She says I look so much prettier, feel so much softer and smell so much lovelier. Of course, the first thing I did when we got back home was to wallow around on the ground to try to get rid of that sweet smell (which didn't work). I feel like such a girly dog. Grrrr.

Mutt on a mission

So, yesterday a lady came by to give one of the goats some medicine. The goat started crying, and I just couldn't stand it. I go ballistic when somebody messes with MY goats. Anyway, Mama said the magic words- "Go for a ride?" and we went on a secret mission. She said it was a "Bookcrossing Wild Release Drop." She drove me to that Post Office place, as usual. Then, she took this thin rectangular thing that had pages with words on them (that I couldn't understand) inside with her. Then, she just left it there for someone to find. She said it was a book another bookcrosser had written, and she wanted to share it with the world. Anyway, it was a splendid day for riding with my face in the wind. Mission accomplished.

A reminder for Mama

Mama told me to be sure and put that I got my treat/ heartworm medicine and my flea and tick drops today. Phoebe, my little sister, acts like such a fraidy cat about taking her medicine. I don't make a fuss. I know Mama wouldn't do anything to hurt me.

Possibly the First Snake of Spring

Mama said she was drying off after her shower when she heard my alarm bark. She came outside in her bathrobe and slippers wearing her towel turban (not a good look for her- but I didn't care because she said the magic words "go for a ride!"). So I stopped my crazy barking directed under the cedar tree in the front yard and went around back and jumped in the car. Once, I was safely (and deceitfully, I might add) stowed in my chariot expecting a nice ride, she went back to the front yard without me to investigate. She could not see what was the matter, but she knows me well enough to trust my alarm bark, so she wouldn't venture too close to whatever the danger could be. We've seen rattlers in the yard before. Then, she took me on what must be the world's shortest ride just to the back pasture gate and said the other magic words, "go for a walk" as she opened the gate. Of course, I took off running right into the fenced in field- tricked again. I didn't like it one bit when I saw Mama close the gate behind me. Five minutes later, after she put on her clothes and shoes and lost the towel, she took me for a real ride, saying we were implementing " our snake evacuation plan." It was so much fun, and she said I was such a good girl. When we got back home, I sniffed the same spot under the tree curiously- but nothing. It had made its escape apparently. If it's smart, it won't come back. Mama says she has made a note to herself. While, I do not listen very well to "No" and "Leave it!" , I respond 100% of the time to "Go for a ride/ walk!"

In the doghouse again

Let me just say it wasn't my fault. That rooster shouldn't have come into my yard. I was just doing my job. Anyhoow, Mama fussed at me and made me let go of the evil trespassing fowl. Then, she wouldn't even look at me, and murmured something like "you know what no means." Well, that rooster knows I mean business if he decides to come back on my side of the fence again. I know Mama doesn't really like that rooster in the yard. People are so confusing. Mama just brought me some roast beef. I guess I'm forgiven.

Another lazy Saturday

Mama let me in the house around two this morning because of the thunder drums that I was trying to chase away with extra loud barking. It worked, too because they haven't tried to come back in my yard all day. You would think my people would be grateful for my security services in scaring away all evil noises, but they just seemed grumpy. Whatever, it's a living- free food, board and healthcare benefits. I had a nice nap in the house until about six- which I continued outside. Then Mama took me for a ride to the little building where she trades envelopes and packages which makes no sense to me- but she gets mad when I try to eat any of them. That's all for now. Must go for a walk : )

P. Grace

Live and learn

Lesson for the day: Do NOT try to eat a bee! Ptooie!

A Warm and Windy Saturday

I was having a rather uneventful snooze after a night of loud boastful barking into the wee hours with the dogs on the other side of the fence when Mama said the magic words,"Wanna go for a ride?" Well, I zoomed to my chariot, a white '92 Honda Civic. My chauffeur rolled down all the windows and we rolled to that place with the red roof and the window where Mama always picks up these yummy smelling square flattish boxes. When we got home, Mama let me have part of a slice of the stuff in the box. I love Saturdays. I'm looking forward to discussing my day with my friends tonight.

P. Grace