Wish I could post the pics that go with this story. They’re quite remarkable
Oliver’s Story
January 28th 2010 was a cold and rainy day in Sanger Texas. While out driving, Faye’s eye was caught by a little wet and shivering grey mass of fur. She soon realized that the little furball was a dog. After a long period of time, during which she failed to coax the frightened dog to come near, she called home to have a leash and treats brought to her.
Between the two of us, we managed to get the dog into my car. At this point, we noticed a severe injury on the dog’s neck and made the decision to rush him for medical care. Calling ahead, we informed the local Vet, Dr. Shellie Wallace that he appeared to have an embedded collar.
Once there, the Dr. Wallace recognized the dog immediately, saying that he had had an imbedded collar but that she had removed it back in October of 2009. Clearly, since then, the wound had not been cared for and was severely infected. Dr. Wallace said she knew him as “Whitey” and would call his owner. Repeated attempts to contact “Whitey’s” owner failed. Faye and I went ahead and checked him in, as he clearly needed care to clear up the infection and x-rays to investigate the cause of his very deep and severe choking/coughing.
Later that day, “Whitey’s” owner coincidentally showed up at the Vet’s office to pay her bill. Dr. Wallace asked her how Whitey was doing. The owner said he was fine. She then asked when she last saw Whitey. The owner said she saw him at 10:30 a.m. We had dropped him off at her office at 8:00 a.m. When confronted with the very sick dog, in the kennel, the owner denied that he was her dog. This went on for several more exchanges. Finally, she admitted that he was her dog but informed the Dr. Wallace that she did not want him anymore and would more than willingly surrender him.
Dr. Wallace called us and we approved treatment for him. When we went to pick him up the following day, we were informed of the gravity of his situation. X-rays revealed that he had severe crushing and scarring to his esophagus, making eating, drinking and swallowing all but impossible. He also had a severely compromised trachea, giving him very labored breathing and causing him to choke very easily. As if that wasn’t enough suffering, it was also found that the 18 month-old “Whitey” had one bullet lodged in his chest and one in his muzzle. He would need to be brought to the Dallas Veterinary Surgical Hospital for a full assessment. He was given all of his immunizations, tested for heartworm and prescribed a course of antibiotics.
After bringing him home to await his appointment in Dallas on February 5th, he was fed a liquid, puréed diet, trying to put any weight on this severely malnourished dog.
Finally, the day came for the now more appropriately named “Oliver”, to meet with Dr. Barstad at the Dallas Surgical Hospital. By the end of the meeting, it was determined that Oliver required major surgery to correct his problems.
We were told that considering the condition revealed on the x-rays and his severe malnutrition, it was remarkable that this little fellow was alive. We were sent home with a stronger antibiotic and instructions to bathe him daily to flush the wounds. Surgery was scheduled for February 18th and for the next 2 weeks; he was bathed daily to help with his wounds and fed a steady stream of antibiotics. As directed, his antibiotics were cut off 3 days before his scheduled surgery. On the second day, the wounds opened up again and immediately showed signs of infection. We were informed that the surgery would have to be postponed because the surgeon needed to have a way to insert a clear line into Oliver’s throat. Dr. Barstad advised that Oliver’s neck wounds needed to be reopened and cleaned out in order to see what was responsible for the continuing infection.
We immediately consulted with our regular Vet, Dr. Chris Norwood of Ponder Veterinary Hospital. After an office consultation on February 26th, Oliver was sent home with yet another course of antibiotics and surgery was scheduled. Again, we were instructed to stop the medication three days prior to surgery to allow the wounds to open so that the drainage path would be easier to follow to the source of the infection.
Oliver was brought in on March 3rd for surgery with Dr. Norwood. A short time later, we were called with the surgical results. Dr. Norwood asked us to return to discuss his finding and help Oliver through his recovery period, as his condition was somewhat precarious. We rushed back to the Ponder Veterinary Hospital while Oliver was being brought into the recovery area. The following pictures show what was found by Dr. Norwood.
Two embedded rubber bands found in Oliver’s neck. They had dug deep into his neck and had compressed his esophagus, trachea and jugular vein.
Dr. Norwood carefully removed them, cleaned up the scar tissue, cleaned the wound and Oliver’s neck was stitched closed, again. This picture shows the now removed, stretched out rubber bands, set next to a penny for size comparison. While under anesthesia, Dr. Norwood removed the bullets and neutered Oliver, as well.
While slowly coming around in the recovery area, shaking and frightened, Faye spoke quietly to Oliver and stroked him gently to reassure and encourage him.
The following day we were able to bring Oliver home with a scheduled return to Dr. Norwood on March 17 to have his stitches removed and a decision as to whether or not he would be ready to withstand the surgery in Dallas with Dr. Barstad.
After removing his stitches and finding that Oliver had gained 1.5 pounds. Oliver was given the green light to return to the Dallas Surgical Hospital for his next surgery.
Feeling quite a bit better, a very skinny Oliver was scheduled for his trachea and possible esophagus resection surgery on April 5th.
While awaiting his surgery, Oliver began to eat normally, played and bonded with the household pets. We anticipated a time when he would be able to breathe normally and keep up to his desire to play with the others. We had been told that the next surgery had the potential to restore him to full health. The phrase used was “Win Big or Lose Big”. Knowing Oliver’s fighting spirit we firmly believed that Oliver would “Win Big”.
The Big Day finally arrived and Oliver’s surgery was performed by Dr. Barstad, at the Dallas Veterinary Surgical Hospital. This amazing place is the size of a regular hospital. Walking through the front doors and mezzanine one would think they had arrived at a conventional hospital.
Everything from the entrances with their lovely flowers to the immaculate hallways, elevators and waiting rooms gives one a sense of security. If not for people walking about with their pets, one would never guess it is a veterinary hospital.
Following a very long and complicated surgery, Oliver was kept in the intensive care unit for the first three days. During that time, he was fitted with an Elizabethan collar and a tie-down apparatus. The tie-down was designed to keep him from moving his neck too much and, in particular it was intended to keep him from raising his head, stretching his neck and placing tension on the surgical site.
After five long days, Oliver was finally permitted to return home. We were told that he needed to remain very quiet and virtually kenneled for two weeks. His normally playful and exuberant personality was masked by the very strong medications he was given. He was talking steroids to reduce the swelling, antibiotics to ensure that he didn’t get any post-surgical infections and very strong painkillers.
After one week the tie-down apparatus was removed, leaving only the Elizabethan collar, which was to stay on until his staples were removed at the end of week two.
When this journey began, we picked up a skinny shivering dog from beneath a shrub. At the time, we had no idea of the twists and turns he would take us through and the number of nights during which he would keep us awake with his wheezing and gasping. There were times when we wondered if he was going to make it through to the next appointment.
At the time of this writing, Oliver has completed all the surgical procedures. It was a tough battle for this equally tough little fellow.
Oliver is an extremely smart, loyal and loving dog. He has worked his way into our hearts and amazes us each day with his will to live, his desire to learn and please. We have watched a very frightened dog become a true champion.
This is Oliver, today. He has just experienced his very first “spa day” with the groomer. Today, Oliver’s life is a series of “firsts”. He’s been to the dog park, learned to swim in the little lake and has his own swimming pool in the yard.
He is fascinated by butterflies, which he’s finally able to chase without losing his ability to breathe.
Oliver has a great life ahead of him. To some, he may be just a dog, but to us he’s A VERY SPECIAL DOG….
HE’S OUR
OLIVER!
My little yorkie Dexter came to me one day and said that he wanted to be more famous than lassie. thinking that it was just a passing fantasy, i told him that i would support him in any way possible to fufill his dreams.
He started a youtube chanle and we produce cute and funny dog videos! his goeal is to become more famous than lassie, my goal is to bring much needed smiles and laughter to the world!
My dog/puppy is sweetie pie’ she is a full blooded yellow lab she loves to retrieve anything basicly she just turnd 9 months old on the fifth. her birthday is December 5 she is truly the best dog in the world she is loving,intelligent,loyal, and my very good friend shes is very submissive. shes so smart (it took me not even a month to house break her) shes very funny, she loves to wear bandanas:) i got her because i wanted to have my own dog, i have and had dogs before but never at the age where i can ain her myself. plus i wanted her to be my own not the family dog. i got her at 6 wks old and so far she knows lots of tricks such as
1 sit
2 stay
3 come
4 paw and other paw
5 speak
6 silent speak
7 spin
8 weave threw my legs
9 make a figure eight threw my legs
10 lay down(settle)
11 play dead
12 broken paw
13 she shakes her head no she sometimes shakes her head yes but she taught that to her self
14 get your tail
15 go to your bed
16 high five
17 drop it (let go)
18 jump through my arms like a hoop
19 jump over my leg like a hoop with my arm holding on to my foot
20 conga
21 give me hug
22 lave it
23 piggy back ride
24 target what i tell her to target
25 go sit down
26 peek a boo
27 go around (something we use for frisbee but shes still working on it a little)
28 spread it
29 give me kiss
30 sit pretty
31 watch me
32 follow me
and more that i can not think of right now:)
shes very athletic she loves to play soccer, volley ball, and frisbee especially. she can tell certain things apart and people. shes very intelligent and shes the most beautiful dog ever! shes a very good companion to me.
Like or Dislike: 02
Posted By Simone
On September 7, 2010 at 7:55 am
Amy is an australian shepherd and now 5 months old.
she’s very smart and soooo happy.
she needs a lot of training becaus she is so cheeky
she wants everytime Attention
and LOVED people
when i go for a walk and she see a human
then she’s so happy
okay i know it’s a aussie
but i train with her to be more relaxed
Amy didn’t let me go anywhere without her she wants to be present
even she would leave her food for that!
but when i leave her alone she’s very exemplarily
Amy is a wonderful companion!
my channel on youtube http://www.youtube.com/user/Blackiiful
Shyloh (Born July 17th, 2009) is my purebred Border Collie. She is a female and is black and white with some brown points on her shoulders and ears (but not considered a tri-colour). She can be Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) registered. She is registered with the CBCA (Canadian Border Collie Association). She has papers for everything that has ever happened (vaccinations, CBCA registration, obedience classes, etc.) We keep track of everything. She is from a local (and reputable) breeder named Karen Sheets. Karen’s website is: http://www.bordercolliesbykaren.ca.
Shyloh’s sire is Dodge Diesel and her dam is Bobby. Her sire is a red merle and her mother is black/white. She has a black/white sister, a tri-coloured sister, and a blue merle brother (who the breeder kept).
Shyloh knows over 40 different commands/tricks. I have been teaching her tricks/obedience since I got her at 12 weeks. I teach her using Clicker Training and positive methods (known as Positive Reinforcement). She will wilfully perform all of her tricks when I ask. Her favourite trick is either “Closing Doors”, “Take a Bow” or “Shake a Paw”. She has attended, and completed, 2 levels of obedience classes at PetSmart in Edmonton, Alberta. She now only has the Expert (or Advanced) level left until she is fully finished.
Shyloh is in training for dog agility (if you don’t know what it is, check out my page for that). We started training agility foundation while she was 12 weeks-1 year. After 1 year old, we started training the “big dog” stuff. Since her growth plates are closed and she is done growing, she now can jump regulation heights and learn the weave poles. She has completed the beginner agility class at For Paws in Leduc, Alberta. She will be moving on to the intermediate level in September 2010.
In agility, she now knows how to:
Jump on cue.
Go through the tire on cue.
Weave 6 straight poles (with a single-step!)
Go through the tunnel on cue.
And she is learning better contacts with the mini a-frame.
We just started training in June 2009, and I know she will get far. We have already gotten far for 2 months. She is extremely smart and I expect lots from her. I hope to compete one day with the Agility Association of Canada (AAC). We also might attend agility meetups at Canine Communication every Friday in Edmonton, Alberta.
I love his dog with ALL my heart and I expect many great things from her. She is very young (13 1/2 months old) and we have already accomplished many things. There is much more to come in the future.
Dogs are funny animals. Today I brought all of my dogs to one in Chicago Illinois and they had the most wonderful time.
Dog parks are fantastic places. I take my dogs to them all the time to enjoy the fine outdoors. It is there that Mindy, Ed, and Fred get more exercise than they could anywhere else.
Like or Dislike: 30
Posted By Anita
On March 22, 2010 at 11:57 am
My son’s dog Daimen an American Stafford Terrier ate a sock. At first we did not know why he was sick until we took him to the vet. After x-ray’s where done and we discovered what the problem was he had surgery right away. He is now healthy again and and doing great. We have to make sure that nothing is lying around that he could possibly eat that is not good for him.
Well-loved. Like or Dislike: 40
Posted By GD
On March 22, 2010 at 11:20 am
Today my dog ate some bad cheese. I am not sure if he needs to go to a vet, but I am certain he needs to go to the dentist. His breath is stinky!
He loves eating the strangest things. A brief list of the things Oscar has eaten over the years.
1.) Bad Cheese
2.) A half eaten ham sandwich
3.) Dental Floss
4.) Sand
5.) Grass
6.) Cat excrement
7.) An entire ball
I am scared to see what the inside of his stomach looks like, but at least he is happy!
Like or Dislike: 30
Posted By Joe
On March 3, 2010 at 3:18 am
Our dog wanted to be a part of my high school graduation party at all costs. It was clear to us, that shortly after he became ‘our’ dog, we would struggle to keep him from consuming anything remotely edible within his reach, throughout the course of his entire life.
Our neighbors offered to us their fenced in yard to contain him during the ceremonies. They had dogs of their own, and their fences worked just fine for keeping their dogs in and anything else out. Shortly before we expected our first guests, my mother and I walked our dog around the bend and down the hill to our neighbors house. It took a lot of coaxing to get our dog to enter the prison, but eventually he relented and we were able to lock him in. I remember walking back up the hill and looking over my shoulder. There he stood, broad shouldered and ears perked, assessing the situation.
My mother and I walked back to the site of the party. At this point, everything was completely set up and we all were anticipating the flood of guests. As it turns out, the very first guest to arrive at my party was our very own dog, who despite being enclosed in five foot high walls down a hill a quarter mile away, arrived to the party a mere few minutes after I returned. Realizing there was no safe way to keep my dog from the party, we let him roam free. He actually behaved quite well from then on, and gladly accepted everything remotely edible given to him by, or taken from, the party goers.
It would require a novel to tell of all his food related conquests, but below is a brief outline of his consumption accomplishments, before he died peacefully of old age:
- disgusting amounts of butter
- many, many loaves of bread
- the crumb toppings, and ONLY the crumb toppings, of nine apple pies baked for a fund raiser by my mother and left out to cool
- an entire chocolate cake with chocolate icing, intended to be eaten in celebration of my grandmother’s birthday (my grandmother was actually delighted, because she figured the dog enjoyed that cake much more than any of us would have)
- the careful extraction of a bowl full of pistachio nuts from a fragile crystal dish resting on a granite countertop. (at first it was presumed that myself or my brother had eaten the nuts, but it turns out, the only reasonable explanation that anyone could come up with was that was the delicate work of our 90 lb golden retriever).
Like or Dislike: 30
Posted By Chichi
On February 24, 2010 at 6:19 pm
Today I lost my dog. It made me really sad.
The story has a happy ending. I found her.
It turns out that she got over the fence in my backyard. We usually do not leave her out there very long, but today my mother called. Leave it to moms, I ended up talking to her for a long time and did not let Chichi in as quickly as I normally do.
When I opened the back door to call she was nowhere in sight. She must have gotten under the fence.
Well, I searched all day. I called for her throughout the neighborhood and she was nowhere to be found. So I started calling all the Police stations and Animal Rescue Leagues I found online. Took 4 hours but I found her.
The police picked her up on 32nd street. 18 blocks away from my house!
Crazy, but thank God she is ok. Next time I talk to my mom, I will not let Chichi out of my site.
Like or Dislike: 10
Posted By Holly
On February 17, 2010 at 7:08 pm
Oscar loves the beach. I like to throw big sticks into the ocean, and he will run in the water to fetch it.
It is my favorite thing to do. Oscar is 7 years old, so he is in his prime. He may not be a hunting dog, but he sure is the smartest dog I have ever owned.
Like or Dislike: 21
Posted By Yorkielover
On February 16, 2010 at 3:34 pm
My dog is the exact opposite. She is a tiny Yorkie and the sweetest pup ever!
I take her everywhere with me.
Like or Dislike: 20
Posted By Rusty
On February 15, 2010 at 8:23 pm
My dog loves the snow. It is his favorite thing to go play in. He is a hunting dog, so he will wander way out into the field.
Sometimes he happily returns with an animal of some kind.
I am here laying on the cold exam table being petted and having my humans saying that they love me. I know what going to happen after this. I fought so hard to stay with them I just can’t fight any longer. In a few minutes I am going to make my journey. While I sit on the table I think back to the time I had with my humans. They gave me many wonderful years and protected me. I came into this world on a cold November morning.
My mom took good care of me when I was young. I was the only one to survive in the litter. I miss my other littermates. I guess the good thing about being the only puppy is that I get the most attention from my mom. Today is my first time trying dry food. Its hard and crunchy I thought to myself I think I like this…I really do. I still like the warmth of my mom’s milk though. Today I ate that good dry food today. My mom likes it a lot as well. I got my name picked out today the humans call me Dharma. The humans also said I have gotten big. Now I can see some of the things that I wasn’t able to see before. I also noticed my legs got long. They are like bigger then my body. Is that even possible?
My humans said to me that I am going to a new home tomorrow. I thought this was my home. My mom is here and the humans who I have known for the 10 months of my life is here. I can’t leave them. Did I do anything wrong? They keep saying that the new home I am going to like. It’s up in the mountains and there is another dog and horses. Horses what are they? Are they bigger or smaller then me? I guess I will have to wait and find out. Today my humans woke me up early. They took me outside to go to the bathroom and to have one good play with my mom. They told me to get into this crate in the car and we headed off. I feel like I was in the car for a long time. Then it stopped. I could see a little bit out of the crate not much. All I saw was a bunch of these things called cars. The door opened and my humans were there. They opened the crate door and let me out. There were so many people there. I wanted to say hi to everyone there.
They all said I was very cute. Who wouldn’t say I was? I mean look at it this way I am a 10-month-old puppy with long legs. When we got inside we went to this counter place. They put a tag on the handle of my crate. The people on the other side of the counter took me. I was placed onto this thing that moved. I was very scared. I was no longer with the people I knew. I got pretty tired and fell asleep. I woke up to a jolt. I was being placed into a thing what they called an airplane. I wanted to be with my mom and humans so bad. I was just so scared. I wined for quite a while and then fell asleep.
I opened my eyes and the door to the airplane was opening. They took me and placed me on this cart thing with a lot of luggage. There were no other dogs there. Was I the only one? I was put onto this thing that spun around in circles. Not sure what you called it. When I looked there were a lot of people there. Then someone grabbed my crate and placed me down on the ground. They opened the crate and started to pet me. I guess this is my new family. They said was I very cute and wiggly. Don’t all puppies wiggle? They said that there is another dog waiting for me at home my ears perked up at the word of dog. There’s another one of me at the house. They loaded me into a red truck. And said we have a long drive a head of us.
I wonder how long they meant long was. Who knows I guess I will just wait and see. I heard the humans voice saying that we are home. I sat up as fast as I can, it didn’t look anything like my home. It’s a whole new place. I saw new creatures they called them horses. They said they could kick hard. So I don’t plan going near them. I saw something running towards the tuck it’s another dog. I wanted to get out so badly and to see the and play with the other dog. The truck stopped and my human got out and opened my door. He said welcome home. I guess this place isn’t all that bad I thought to myself. I started to play with the other dog. She wasn’t as fast as me. She was an older dog but it was fun to play with her.
I went inside and there were cats. We had them back at my old home. They had a little grey and white kitten name Ace. He was so little compared to me. He and I became really good friends. We laid next to each other every day we got the chance to. Life at this new home was great. I miss my mom though but here I got more friends. Like Ace and Tasha. She is a great playmate for me. My Humans still call me Dharma but call me different names. They said they want to find a name that fit’s me the most. One day I was running down this little hill and well there was a flower. So I ran down to the flower and smelled it but I forgot to tell my back legs to stop. At one point my legs were in front of me and I tumbled down the rest of the hill. When I got up I looked at my humans and they just started laughing. They said that was graceful and well that’s how I got my name.
They called me Gracie. I will never forget the day I got my second name. It’s so important it’s what they call me. I like the name Gracie it fits me so well. A few weeks later they said someone new was coming. New people are always fun to meet. Who knows they might become your best friend. I didn’t know it at the time but this new person will become my best friend and I will become hers and later in life save hers. I saw the red truck pull up to the house and started to howl. I saw someone new come out of the back. It was the new person. She was so little compared to me. I went up and jumped because I was happy.
She petted me on my head and said good girl. I like to hear that words “good girl”. When we were inside she would sneak me some “ people food” that stuff was good stuff. The other cat, Azul had gone missing. He was like a dog, like me. He loved to go on walks and fallow you around. It seamed forever since he was missing. I guess I can try to help them find them. I looked around the house many times no luck. Someone came in and said they found him. Turns out that he had been and killed. We all miss him very much. After that happened Ace got eaten, he was my best friend how could I let that happen to him. I search the house for him hoping I will find him. I looked in the spots were we use to lay with each other and his hiding spots. I can’t find him I miss him so much. As time went by this got easier I still think about my friend at times. I still got Tasha and the horses. They are good friends. Tasha seams to be slowing down some. It’s harder for her to get up but. My humans were telling me how Tasha had got kicked by a horse and went flying in the air. After I heard that story I never went near a horse again. Afraid that would happen to me.
I was sitting in the sun one day and I saw all these weird legged things with antlers. When they ran they bounced. They could jump over fences and such. It was so cool to see. I got up and started to chase them and I heard my name “ Gracie get back here now” I am in trouble I thought to myself. My human was very mad at me he said, “ you know better then chasing them, and we want to see them. We don’t want them to be scared of us”. After that I didn’t chase them again. I would watch them in the distance. They are fun to watch. Many years had gone by I grew older and wiser.
I knew when to bark and when not to bark. I knew the right from the wrong and my ABC’S… well not really. I did many things for my humans and helped them when I could. My human named Maria and I would do everything together. Okay… not everything but it seamed like it. She liked when I slept in her bed with her and I would make her smile by licking her face. She still gave me people food like when I was little. It was so good. She would tell me how much I meant to her and how she was lucky to have a dog like me. One day her friend Jessica came over. We were playing down in the ditches. While they played I lay down and kept my guarded on. All of sudden I herd Maria and her friend Jessica yelling my name. There was a dog on Maria.
He was hurting her and her friend. I ran over and got the dog off her and I got between them and protected them. It was my job as a dog and a friend to protect my master. After I chased the dog away she came running over to me and told me I was a good dog and that she loves me so much. I licked her face multiple times to tell her I love her too. I never left her side after that. She called me her little shadow. It was so cool I was her shadow. One of the things I hated when she had to go back home. I never knew when the next time I would see her again. When she called I would talk to her on the phone. When I heard her voice I would lick the phone. I missed her so much. She came out over the summers for two months.
This one summer could have been my last. We were getting work done on the house. And the humans opened the barn door. I went inside and saw this box on the floor. I wasn’t sure what it was but it tasted good. Then someone came in and ran over to me pulled the box from me and called my humans. They said I ate poison and they need to come as fast as they could. When they got there they gave me this stuff to make me vomit. I felt better after that. The people at the house saved my life. I was having a bad day that day. I had seizures in the morning but I mostly felt bad for my humans I worried them so much. I worried them the most of Christmas of 2007. I had many seizures and was unable to get up. They rushed me to the vet. I was unable to be there on Christmas. They missed me so much I knew they did. I know Maria did she loved spending Christmas with me next Christmas I will be with her I thought at the time. I knew I was getting old I wasn’t able to get up like I use to.
Going up the stairs with Maria was getting harder but she helped me. She gave me my pills for my seizures in the morning and night. She sat outside with me to make sure I ate. She helped me so much threw my final years. The summer of 2008 would be my last time with her. We spent two wonderful months together. She took me on walks and gave me biscuits and took many photos of me. I think she knew this would be the last time. I stayed strong for her and still made her smile and laugh. When we went on walks she would pack food for us and we would eat and she would tell me that I was very special to her.
I still remember the last time I saw her. She petted me and told me that she loved me and I licked her face. She also said that she would be coming out for Christmas to see me since she loved me. I am not able to be there for Christmas. She will be upset; I hope she remembers all the good times we had together. My human said that he was going to go see her and her school. I wish I could of gone like the time I did when she was little. Before he left he said that he loved me and said goodbye. I think he knew there was a chance that he wouldn’t be seeing me again. He had a friend of his come and takes care of my pack and me. I started to have seizures again and they wouldn’t stop I knew this was it. It’s going to get the best of me. I was rushed to the vets and they said I was very lucky because I almost didn’t come out of them. I got better threw the days. My back legs were weak I needed assistance to walk around. They found if they placed my food onto the other side of the room I would get up and eat it. Who wouldn’t get up and eat their food. They told me my humans called to check on me.
That made me feel good since I knew the loved me. I spent a good week in the vets and went home on a October 26th it felt so good to be home. I still needed some assistance but was able to get around. One morning I was eating and I guess I ate to fast. My stomach had twisted it hurt so bad. I went inside and my human realized something was wrong since my stomach was bigger then normal. They took me down to the vet and I had to have emergency surgery. That surgery saved my life the next day I was able to come home. I was uncomfortable lying down was hard for me. November 2 I got better I felt like I did. My humans said I was getting better. Those made me feel good. My pack knew I was sick so they left me alone most of the time witch was good. Then today I didn’t feel good I wondered off and laid under a tree. My humans called my name and looked for me then they found me. They put me on a blanket and laid me in the truck. They told me how good I was to them and that I was there for them. I knew that this, I would be making the journey today.
They brought me inside and I found out I had an infection and that my blood pressure was too low to do anything. So here I am here laying on the cold exam table being petted and having my humans saying that they love me. They said Maria would miss me very much. I lifted up my head and licked their hand multiple times. I knew Maria would want to be here at this time. Things just didn’t work out that way. I knew she loved me thought she told me every day. Here comes the vet my humans gave one last kiss and hug and left the room. I understand it was hard for them to stay. The vet told me that I am going to be okay. She placed the needle into me I could feel the drugs go into my vein. My eyes are getting heavier and heavier then I close them knowing that I am going to the bridge and that everyone loved me.
Well-loved. Like or Dislike: 50
Posted By bdog
On February 2, 2010 at 8:20 pm
My dog likes to dance. At night we turn on some music and jam away.
One night my dog and I were dancing so loud the neighbor came over and asked us to quiet down. She thought a party was going on.
Needless to say, it was very embarrassing.
Well-loved. Like or Dislike: 60
Posted By Eddie
On January 17, 2010 at 8:55 pm
I own a Doberman.
He is a BIG dog. Today, when we got home he had torn up everything I had left in the laundry basket.
I love the guy, but sometimes I wish we lived somewhere where he could stay outside all the time.
Long story short. Make sure to get your dog enough exercise. Otherwise they will cause problems.
Like or Dislike: 20
Posted By Suz
On January 10, 2010 at 10:53 am
I love my dog Shnooks. He is a little dachshund, who loves to chase things.
He is so cute when he stares at dogs through the window. We live in a city so there are tons of dogs to bark at! When I tell him to quite down he settles very quickly and sits on my lap.
I have nothing funny to say… but he is a great dog and I want the world to know it!
Every pooch has a tale to tell. How they met their person…the unconditional love between them and their person…and the pawprints left behind.
I’ve had dogs all my life. My dog Ginger grew with me from when I was just 3 years old to age 18. Next came my my dog Mandy, who saw me through college and moved out with me to my first home of my own. When Mandy passed I was devestated and my father’s dog Lindsey came to live with me to ease the pain. And that’s where it all began.
Lindsey was a character…she was a dog who thought she was a cat and was super spoiled from living with my dad who was retired and had spent every moment of the day with her. I had to adjust my life around Lindsey. I brought Lindsey to work with me one day. I worked with emotionally challanged teens in a government facitlity. Most of them, being abuse survivors, did not trust adults. But with a little dog’s presence and love they opened up their feelings while petting and brushing Lindsey.
Lindsey came to work with me everyday…she earned the name, little angel in fur.
Lindsey and I were a team for several years and then her health began to deteriorate, simply due to old age. She went blind, deaf, and it was becoming more difficult for her to walk. So we adjusted to her needs and we made her a buggy to push her in so she could still enjoy her daily strolls around the neighborhood. It was when she started to have breathing problems that my dad decided it was time for us to be strong for Lindsey and he brought her to the vet to be laid to sleep.
My next dog I named Xia. The meaning behind the name is a special one, it means the glow of a sunrise. And I noticed that Xia had one little bright pink toe. All the rest were black. My imagination took over. I started thinking…all my other dogs played major roles in my life, what roll would this little puppy play? What if her pink little toe had a meaning behind it? What if it meant that she was special…held some type of power, a legend behind the pink toe perhaps?
I began to write and the fantastical story filled with mystery, love, and adventure of how dogs are made for us was born and I named it, Angel in a Fur Coat. http://www.Gooberella.com
Well-loved. Like or Dislike: 50
Posted By Sara J
On December 14, 2009 at 1:56 pm
I have a Chihuahua named Fred. He is cute and spunky.
Yesterday he was looking out the window, and pawed at the screen so hard that it fell through.
As a result, poor little Fred fell too! And he could not figure out how to get back into the house to be with me. He was so confused!
My dog Bella gets really silly in the winter. She is scared of the wind rattling the window, but not scared to bark at it.
I keep telling her to relax, but she is not listening.
Like or Dislike: 30
Posted By Lesia Hanks
On December 10, 2009 at 8:48 pm
His name was Gem. We adopted him from the local shelter after his picture was featured in the newspaper with the caption “sad eyes”. He had been neglected and mistreated. His flea collar had to be surgically removed, he had hardly any hair on his body, he had some trauma to his front feet and he was heartworm positive. My son saw his picture and fell in love. He was a mixed breed, black with white on his chest, long ears like a cocker spaniel, body more like a basset hound. He was afraid of everything! The kids could bring anything new into the house, like a balloon, and he would shake and cower. I didn’t know if he could ever learn to trust us.
He loved to dig holes in the back yard. He could open doors in the house by standing on his back legs and hitting the levers with his front paws. He was a real character, comical and loving. In time he not only learned that he was safe; he became an integral part of the family. He loved tiny animals – puppies and kittens were in danger of being licked to death!
Our miniature shnauzer gave birth to a litter of four puppies. They were precious, but one was born with a cleft palate and the vet didn’t think he would live. I bottle-fed him every four hours, with Gem always at my side, looking on and giving his approval. The puppy, Sebastian, had two surgeries and survived. They were great pals!
Gem loved the theme song to “Law and Order”. He would howl every time he heard it, and Sebastian and the other dogs would join in! This was the only time he did it, but he was consistent until he went deaf and could no longer hear it. Of course then he could no longer hear the thunder that terrified him, either, so I guess the trade off was okay.
He suffered from arthritis in both front feet from that long-ago trauma and he developed renal failure. One month shy of this 15th birthday he became very ill, and I had to do the hardest thing we pet lovers ever have to do for our furbabies.
I look back at his life, from the abused, frightened, dog we brought into our home, who was terrified by a ham at one time, to the comical character who babysat all the little animals that came through our home during his time with us, and I know he was happy. I know he lived up to his name, and our lived were enriched by him. At least he no longer had sad eyes.
24 Comments to Submit Your Dog Story
Posted By NancyG
On January 30, 2011 at 3:00 pm
Wish I could post the pics that go with this story. They’re quite remarkable
Oliver’s Story
January 28th 2010 was a cold and rainy day in Sanger Texas. While out driving, Faye’s eye was caught by a little wet and shivering grey mass of fur. She soon realized that the little furball was a dog. After a long period of time, during which she failed to coax the frightened dog to come near, she called home to have a leash and treats brought to her.
Between the two of us, we managed to get the dog into my car. At this point, we noticed a severe injury on the dog’s neck and made the decision to rush him for medical care. Calling ahead, we informed the local Vet, Dr. Shellie Wallace that he appeared to have an embedded collar.
Once there, the Dr. Wallace recognized the dog immediately, saying that he had had an imbedded collar but that she had removed it back in October of 2009. Clearly, since then, the wound had not been cared for and was severely infected. Dr. Wallace said she knew him as “Whitey” and would call his owner. Repeated attempts to contact “Whitey’s” owner failed. Faye and I went ahead and checked him in, as he clearly needed care to clear up the infection and x-rays to investigate the cause of his very deep and severe choking/coughing.
Later that day, “Whitey’s” owner coincidentally showed up at the Vet’s office to pay her bill. Dr. Wallace asked her how Whitey was doing. The owner said he was fine. She then asked when she last saw Whitey. The owner said she saw him at 10:30 a.m. We had dropped him off at her office at 8:00 a.m. When confronted with the very sick dog, in the kennel, the owner denied that he was her dog. This went on for several more exchanges. Finally, she admitted that he was her dog but informed the Dr. Wallace that she did not want him anymore and would more than willingly surrender him.
Dr. Wallace called us and we approved treatment for him. When we went to pick him up the following day, we were informed of the gravity of his situation. X-rays revealed that he had severe crushing and scarring to his esophagus, making eating, drinking and swallowing all but impossible. He also had a severely compromised trachea, giving him very labored breathing and causing him to choke very easily. As if that wasn’t enough suffering, it was also found that the 18 month-old “Whitey” had one bullet lodged in his chest and one in his muzzle. He would need to be brought to the Dallas Veterinary Surgical Hospital for a full assessment. He was given all of his immunizations, tested for heartworm and prescribed a course of antibiotics.
After bringing him home to await his appointment in Dallas on February 5th, he was fed a liquid, puréed diet, trying to put any weight on this severely malnourished dog.
Finally, the day came for the now more appropriately named “Oliver”, to meet with Dr. Barstad at the Dallas Surgical Hospital. By the end of the meeting, it was determined that Oliver required major surgery to correct his problems.
We were told that considering the condition revealed on the x-rays and his severe malnutrition, it was remarkable that this little fellow was alive. We were sent home with a stronger antibiotic and instructions to bathe him daily to flush the wounds. Surgery was scheduled for February 18th and for the next 2 weeks; he was bathed daily to help with his wounds and fed a steady stream of antibiotics. As directed, his antibiotics were cut off 3 days before his scheduled surgery. On the second day, the wounds opened up again and immediately showed signs of infection. We were informed that the surgery would have to be postponed because the surgeon needed to have a way to insert a clear line into Oliver’s throat. Dr. Barstad advised that Oliver’s neck wounds needed to be reopened and cleaned out in order to see what was responsible for the continuing infection.
We immediately consulted with our regular Vet, Dr. Chris Norwood of Ponder Veterinary Hospital. After an office consultation on February 26th, Oliver was sent home with yet another course of antibiotics and surgery was scheduled. Again, we were instructed to stop the medication three days prior to surgery to allow the wounds to open so that the drainage path would be easier to follow to the source of the infection.
Oliver was brought in on March 3rd for surgery with Dr. Norwood. A short time later, we were called with the surgical results. Dr. Norwood asked us to return to discuss his finding and help Oliver through his recovery period, as his condition was somewhat precarious. We rushed back to the Ponder Veterinary Hospital while Oliver was being brought into the recovery area. The following pictures show what was found by Dr. Norwood.
Two embedded rubber bands found in Oliver’s neck. They had dug deep into his neck and had compressed his esophagus, trachea and jugular vein.
Dr. Norwood carefully removed them, cleaned up the scar tissue, cleaned the wound and Oliver’s neck was stitched closed, again. This picture shows the now removed, stretched out rubber bands, set next to a penny for size comparison. While under anesthesia, Dr. Norwood removed the bullets and neutered Oliver, as well.
While slowly coming around in the recovery area, shaking and frightened, Faye spoke quietly to Oliver and stroked him gently to reassure and encourage him.
The following day we were able to bring Oliver home with a scheduled return to Dr. Norwood on March 17 to have his stitches removed and a decision as to whether or not he would be ready to withstand the surgery in Dallas with Dr. Barstad.
After removing his stitches and finding that Oliver had gained 1.5 pounds. Oliver was given the green light to return to the Dallas Surgical Hospital for his next surgery.
Feeling quite a bit better, a very skinny Oliver was scheduled for his trachea and possible esophagus resection surgery on April 5th.
While awaiting his surgery, Oliver began to eat normally, played and bonded with the household pets. We anticipated a time when he would be able to breathe normally and keep up to his desire to play with the others. We had been told that the next surgery had the potential to restore him to full health. The phrase used was “Win Big or Lose Big”. Knowing Oliver’s fighting spirit we firmly believed that Oliver would “Win Big”.
The Big Day finally arrived and Oliver’s surgery was performed by Dr. Barstad, at the Dallas Veterinary Surgical Hospital. This amazing place is the size of a regular hospital. Walking through the front doors and mezzanine one would think they had arrived at a conventional hospital.
Everything from the entrances with their lovely flowers to the immaculate hallways, elevators and waiting rooms gives one a sense of security. If not for people walking about with their pets, one would never guess it is a veterinary hospital.
Following a very long and complicated surgery, Oliver was kept in the intensive care unit for the first three days. During that time, he was fitted with an Elizabethan collar and a tie-down apparatus. The tie-down was designed to keep him from moving his neck too much and, in particular it was intended to keep him from raising his head, stretching his neck and placing tension on the surgical site.
After five long days, Oliver was finally permitted to return home. We were told that he needed to remain very quiet and virtually kenneled for two weeks. His normally playful and exuberant personality was masked by the very strong medications he was given. He was talking steroids to reduce the swelling, antibiotics to ensure that he didn’t get any post-surgical infections and very strong painkillers.
After one week the tie-down apparatus was removed, leaving only the Elizabethan collar, which was to stay on until his staples were removed at the end of week two.
When this journey began, we picked up a skinny shivering dog from beneath a shrub. At the time, we had no idea of the twists and turns he would take us through and the number of nights during which he would keep us awake with his wheezing and gasping. There were times when we wondered if he was going to make it through to the next appointment.
At the time of this writing, Oliver has completed all the surgical procedures. It was a tough battle for this equally tough little fellow.
Oliver is an extremely smart, loyal and loving dog. He has worked his way into our hearts and amazes us each day with his will to live, his desire to learn and please. We have watched a very frightened dog become a true champion.
This is Oliver, today. He has just experienced his very first “spa day” with the groomer. Today, Oliver’s life is a series of “firsts”. He’s been to the dog park, learned to swim in the little lake and has his own swimming pool in the yard.
He is fascinated by butterflies, which he’s finally able to chase without losing his ability to breathe.
Oliver has a great life ahead of him. To some, he may be just a dog, but to us he’s A VERY SPECIAL DOG….
HE’S OUR
OLIVER!
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
Posted By Alana
On December 23, 2010 at 7:59 am
My little yorkie Dexter came to me one day and said that he wanted to be more famous than lassie. thinking that it was just a passing fantasy, i told him that i would support him in any way possible to fufill his dreams.
He started a youtube chanle and we produce cute and funny dog videos! his goeal is to become more famous than lassie, my goal is to bring much needed smiles and laughter to the world!
here is just a taste of Dexter’s talent:
Jingle Dog Rock: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bK1goXfIzNk
Dog’s Christmas Morning: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bzyryg1Rn18
Terrier Rap: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEL8avI334s
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Posted By Ron
On October 23, 2010 at 2:36 pm
These are the only two dogs in the world who can “high 5″ EACH OTHER
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zZVVyFHSKY
Like or Dislike:
2 
0
Posted By michaela cormier
On September 7, 2010 at 4:54 pm
My dog/puppy is sweetie pie’ she is a full blooded yellow lab she loves to retrieve anything basicly
she just turnd 9 months old on the fifth. her birthday is December 5 she is truly the best dog in the world she is loving,intelligent,loyal, and my very good friend shes is very submissive. shes so smart (it took me not even a month to house break her) shes very funny, she loves to wear bandanas:) i got her because i wanted to have my own dog, i have and had dogs before but never at the age where i can ain her myself. plus i wanted her to be my own not the family dog. i got her at 6 wks old and so far she knows lots of tricks such as
1 sit
2 stay
3 come
4 paw and other paw
5 speak
6 silent speak
7 spin
8 weave threw my legs
9 make a figure eight threw my legs
10 lay down(settle)
11 play dead
12 broken paw
13 she shakes her head no she sometimes shakes her head yes but she taught that to her self
14 get your tail
15 go to your bed
16 high five
17 drop it (let go)
18 jump through my arms like a hoop
19 jump over my leg like a hoop with my arm holding on to my foot
20 conga
21 give me hug
22 lave it
23 piggy back ride
24 target what i tell her to target
25 go sit down
26 peek a boo
27 go around (something we use for frisbee but shes still working on it a little)
28 spread it
29 give me kiss
30 sit pretty
31 watch me
32 follow me
and more that i can not think of right now:)
shes very athletic she loves to play soccer, volley ball, and frisbee especially. she can tell certain things apart and people. shes very intelligent and shes the most beautiful dog ever! shes a very good companion to me.
Like or Dislike:
0 
2
Posted By Simone
On September 7, 2010 at 7:55 am
Amy is an australian shepherd and now 5 months old.
she’s very smart and soooo happy.
she needs a lot of training becaus she is so cheeky
she wants everytime Attention
and LOVED people
when i go for a walk and she see a human
then she’s so happy
okay i know it’s a aussie
but i train with her to be more relaxed
Amy didn’t let me go anywhere without her she wants to be present
even she would leave her food for that!
but when i leave her alone she’s very exemplarily
Amy is a wonderful companion!
my channel on youtube
http://www.youtube.com/user/Blackiiful
Like or Dislike:
2 
0
Posted By Courtney Forester
On September 6, 2010 at 9:40 pm
Shyloh (Born July 17th, 2009) is my purebred Border Collie. She is a female and is black and white with some brown points on her shoulders and ears (but not considered a tri-colour). She can be Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) registered. She is registered with the CBCA (Canadian Border Collie Association). She has papers for everything that has ever happened (vaccinations, CBCA registration, obedience classes, etc.) We keep track of everything. She is from a local (and reputable) breeder named Karen Sheets. Karen’s website is: http://www.bordercolliesbykaren.ca.
Shyloh’s sire is Dodge Diesel and her dam is Bobby. Her sire is a red merle and her mother is black/white. She has a black/white sister, a tri-coloured sister, and a blue merle brother (who the breeder kept).
Shyloh knows over 40 different commands/tricks. I have been teaching her tricks/obedience since I got her at 12 weeks. I teach her using Clicker Training and positive methods (known as Positive Reinforcement). She will wilfully perform all of her tricks when I ask. Her favourite trick is either “Closing Doors”, “Take a Bow” or “Shake a Paw”. She has attended, and completed, 2 levels of obedience classes at PetSmart in Edmonton, Alberta. She now only has the Expert (or Advanced) level left until she is fully finished.
Shyloh is in training for dog agility (if you don’t know what it is, check out my page for that). We started training agility foundation while she was 12 weeks-1 year. After 1 year old, we started training the “big dog” stuff. Since her growth plates are closed and she is done growing, she now can jump regulation heights and learn the weave poles. She has completed the beginner agility class at For Paws in Leduc, Alberta. She will be moving on to the intermediate level in September 2010.
In agility, she now knows how to:
Jump on cue.
Go through the tire on cue.
Weave 6 straight poles (with a single-step!)
Go through the tunnel on cue.
And she is learning better contacts with the mini a-frame.
We just started training in June 2009, and I know she will get far. We have already gotten far for 2 months. She is extremely smart and I expect lots from her. I hope to compete one day with the Agility Association of Canada (AAC). We also might attend agility meetups at Canine Communication every Friday in Edmonton, Alberta.
I love his dog with ALL my heart and I expect many great things from her. She is very young (13 1/2 months old) and we have already accomplished many things. There is much more to come in the future.
YOu can watch our videos at : http://www.youtube.com/user/Court22132?feature=mhum
Like or Dislike:
2 
0
Posted By Paris
On August 30, 2010 at 4:28 pm
Hi all, Just thought I would share this video of my Boy Bear,, He loves a tickle every now and then!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCvslo_pYfA
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
Posted By barb
On April 5, 2010 at 4:58 pm
Dogs are funny animals. Today I brought all of my dogs to one in Chicago Illinois and they had the most wonderful time.
Dog parks are fantastic places. I take my dogs to them all the time to enjoy the fine outdoors. It is there that Mindy, Ed, and Fred get more exercise than they could anywhere else.
Like or Dislike:
3 
0
Posted By Anita
On March 22, 2010 at 11:57 am
My son’s dog Daimen an American Stafford Terrier ate a sock. At first we did not know why he was sick until we took him to the vet. After x-ray’s where done and we discovered what the problem was he had surgery right away. He is now healthy again and and doing great. We have to make sure that nothing is lying around that he could possibly eat that is not good for him.
Well-loved. Like or Dislike:
4 
0
Posted By GD
On March 22, 2010 at 11:20 am
Today my dog ate some bad cheese. I am not sure if he needs to go to a vet, but I am certain he needs to go to the dentist. His breath is stinky!
He loves eating the strangest things. A brief list of the things Oscar has eaten over the years.
1.) Bad Cheese
2.) A half eaten ham sandwich
3.) Dental Floss
4.) Sand
5.) Grass
6.) Cat excrement
7.) An entire ball
I am scared to see what the inside of his stomach looks like, but at least he is happy!
Like or Dislike:
3 
0
Posted By Joe
On March 3, 2010 at 3:18 am
Our dog wanted to be a part of my high school graduation party at all costs. It was clear to us, that shortly after he became ‘our’ dog, we would struggle to keep him from consuming anything remotely edible within his reach, throughout the course of his entire life.
Our neighbors offered to us their fenced in yard to contain him during the ceremonies. They had dogs of their own, and their fences worked just fine for keeping their dogs in and anything else out. Shortly before we expected our first guests, my mother and I walked our dog around the bend and down the hill to our neighbors house. It took a lot of coaxing to get our dog to enter the prison, but eventually he relented and we were able to lock him in. I remember walking back up the hill and looking over my shoulder. There he stood, broad shouldered and ears perked, assessing the situation.
My mother and I walked back to the site of the party. At this point, everything was completely set up and we all were anticipating the flood of guests. As it turns out, the very first guest to arrive at my party was our very own dog, who despite being enclosed in five foot high walls down a hill a quarter mile away, arrived to the party a mere few minutes after I returned. Realizing there was no safe way to keep my dog from the party, we let him roam free. He actually behaved quite well from then on, and gladly accepted everything remotely edible given to him by, or taken from, the party goers.
It would require a novel to tell of all his food related conquests, but below is a brief outline of his consumption accomplishments, before he died peacefully of old age:
- disgusting amounts of butter
- many, many loaves of bread
- the crumb toppings, and ONLY the crumb toppings, of nine apple pies baked for a fund raiser by my mother and left out to cool
- an entire chocolate cake with chocolate icing, intended to be eaten in celebration of my grandmother’s birthday (my grandmother was actually delighted, because she figured the dog enjoyed that cake much more than any of us would have)
- the careful extraction of a bowl full of pistachio nuts from a fragile crystal dish resting on a granite countertop. (at first it was presumed that myself or my brother had eaten the nuts, but it turns out, the only reasonable explanation that anyone could come up with was that was the delicate work of our 90 lb golden retriever).
Like or Dislike:
3 
0
Posted By Chichi
On February 24, 2010 at 6:19 pm
Today I lost my dog. It made me really sad.
The story has a happy ending. I found her.
It turns out that she got over the fence in my backyard. We usually do not leave her out there very long, but today my mother called. Leave it to moms, I ended up talking to her for a long time and did not let Chichi in as quickly as I normally do.
When I opened the back door to call she was nowhere in sight. She must have gotten under the fence.
Well, I searched all day. I called for her throughout the neighborhood and she was nowhere to be found. So I started calling all the Police stations and Animal Rescue Leagues I found online. Took 4 hours but I found her.
The police picked her up on 32nd street. 18 blocks away from my house!
Crazy, but thank God she is ok. Next time I talk to my mom, I will not let Chichi out of my site.
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
Posted By Holly
On February 17, 2010 at 7:08 pm
Oscar loves the beach. I like to throw big sticks into the ocean, and he will run in the water to fetch it.
It is my favorite thing to do. Oscar is 7 years old, so he is in his prime. He may not be a hunting dog, but he sure is the smartest dog I have ever owned.
Like or Dislike:
2 
1
Posted By Yorkielover
On February 16, 2010 at 3:34 pm
My dog is the exact opposite. She is a tiny Yorkie and the sweetest pup ever!
I take her everywhere with me.
Like or Dislike:
2 
0
Posted By Rusty
On February 15, 2010 at 8:23 pm
My dog loves the snow. It is his favorite thing to go play in. He is a hunting dog, so he will wander way out into the field.
Sometimes he happily returns with an animal of some kind.
I love seeing him so proud.
Like or Dislike:
2 
0
Posted By Maria Mandel
On February 5, 2010 at 8:34 am
I am here laying on the cold exam table being petted and having my humans saying that they love me. I know what going to happen after this. I fought so hard to stay with them I just can’t fight any longer. In a few minutes I am going to make my journey. While I sit on the table I think back to the time I had with my humans. They gave me many wonderful years and protected me. I came into this world on a cold November morning.
My mom took good care of me when I was young. I was the only one to survive in the litter. I miss my other littermates. I guess the good thing about being the only puppy is that I get the most attention from my mom. Today is my first time trying dry food. Its hard and crunchy I thought to myself I think I like this…I really do. I still like the warmth of my mom’s milk though. Today I ate that good dry food today. My mom likes it a lot as well. I got my name picked out today the humans call me Dharma. The humans also said I have gotten big. Now I can see some of the things that I wasn’t able to see before. I also noticed my legs got long. They are like bigger then my body. Is that even possible?
My humans said to me that I am going to a new home tomorrow. I thought this was my home. My mom is here and the humans who I have known for the 10 months of my life is here. I can’t leave them. Did I do anything wrong? They keep saying that the new home I am going to like. It’s up in the mountains and there is another dog and horses. Horses what are they? Are they bigger or smaller then me? I guess I will have to wait and find out. Today my humans woke me up early. They took me outside to go to the bathroom and to have one good play with my mom. They told me to get into this crate in the car and we headed off. I feel like I was in the car for a long time. Then it stopped. I could see a little bit out of the crate not much. All I saw was a bunch of these things called cars. The door opened and my humans were there. They opened the crate door and let me out. There were so many people there. I wanted to say hi to everyone there.
They all said I was very cute. Who wouldn’t say I was? I mean look at it this way I am a 10-month-old puppy with long legs. When we got inside we went to this counter place. They put a tag on the handle of my crate. The people on the other side of the counter took me. I was placed onto this thing that moved. I was very scared. I was no longer with the people I knew. I got pretty tired and fell asleep. I woke up to a jolt. I was being placed into a thing what they called an airplane. I wanted to be with my mom and humans so bad. I was just so scared. I wined for quite a while and then fell asleep.
I opened my eyes and the door to the airplane was opening. They took me and placed me on this cart thing with a lot of luggage. There were no other dogs there. Was I the only one? I was put onto this thing that spun around in circles. Not sure what you called it. When I looked there were a lot of people there. Then someone grabbed my crate and placed me down on the ground. They opened the crate and started to pet me. I guess this is my new family. They said was I very cute and wiggly. Don’t all puppies wiggle? They said that there is another dog waiting for me at home my ears perked up at the word of dog. There’s another one of me at the house. They loaded me into a red truck. And said we have a long drive a head of us.
I wonder how long they meant long was. Who knows I guess I will just wait and see. I heard the humans voice saying that we are home. I sat up as fast as I can, it didn’t look anything like my home. It’s a whole new place. I saw new creatures they called them horses. They said they could kick hard. So I don’t plan going near them. I saw something running towards the tuck it’s another dog. I wanted to get out so badly and to see the and play with the other dog. The truck stopped and my human got out and opened my door. He said welcome home. I guess this place isn’t all that bad I thought to myself. I started to play with the other dog. She wasn’t as fast as me. She was an older dog but it was fun to play with her.
I went inside and there were cats. We had them back at my old home. They had a little grey and white kitten name Ace. He was so little compared to me. He and I became really good friends. We laid next to each other every day we got the chance to. Life at this new home was great. I miss my mom though but here I got more friends. Like Ace and Tasha. She is a great playmate for me. My Humans still call me Dharma but call me different names. They said they want to find a name that fit’s me the most. One day I was running down this little hill and well there was a flower. So I ran down to the flower and smelled it but I forgot to tell my back legs to stop. At one point my legs were in front of me and I tumbled down the rest of the hill. When I got up I looked at my humans and they just started laughing. They said that was graceful and well that’s how I got my name.
They called me Gracie. I will never forget the day I got my second name. It’s so important it’s what they call me. I like the name Gracie it fits me so well. A few weeks later they said someone new was coming. New people are always fun to meet. Who knows they might become your best friend. I didn’t know it at the time but this new person will become my best friend and I will become hers and later in life save hers. I saw the red truck pull up to the house and started to howl. I saw someone new come out of the back. It was the new person. She was so little compared to me. I went up and jumped because I was happy.
She petted me on my head and said good girl. I like to hear that words “good girl”. When we were inside she would sneak me some “ people food” that stuff was good stuff. The other cat, Azul had gone missing. He was like a dog, like me. He loved to go on walks and fallow you around. It seamed forever since he was missing. I guess I can try to help them find them. I looked around the house many times no luck. Someone came in and said they found him. Turns out that he had been and killed. We all miss him very much. After that happened Ace got eaten, he was my best friend how could I let that happen to him. I search the house for him hoping I will find him. I looked in the spots were we use to lay with each other and his hiding spots. I can’t find him I miss him so much. As time went by this got easier I still think about my friend at times. I still got Tasha and the horses. They are good friends. Tasha seams to be slowing down some. It’s harder for her to get up but. My humans were telling me how Tasha had got kicked by a horse and went flying in the air. After I heard that story I never went near a horse again. Afraid that would happen to me.
I was sitting in the sun one day and I saw all these weird legged things with antlers. When they ran they bounced. They could jump over fences and such. It was so cool to see. I got up and started to chase them and I heard my name “ Gracie get back here now” I am in trouble I thought to myself. My human was very mad at me he said, “ you know better then chasing them, and we want to see them. We don’t want them to be scared of us”. After that I didn’t chase them again. I would watch them in the distance. They are fun to watch. Many years had gone by I grew older and wiser.
I knew when to bark and when not to bark. I knew the right from the wrong and my ABC’S… well not really. I did many things for my humans and helped them when I could. My human named Maria and I would do everything together. Okay… not everything but it seamed like it. She liked when I slept in her bed with her and I would make her smile by licking her face. She still gave me people food like when I was little. It was so good. She would tell me how much I meant to her and how she was lucky to have a dog like me. One day her friend Jessica came over. We were playing down in the ditches. While they played I lay down and kept my guarded on. All of sudden I herd Maria and her friend Jessica yelling my name. There was a dog on Maria.
He was hurting her and her friend. I ran over and got the dog off her and I got between them and protected them. It was my job as a dog and a friend to protect my master. After I chased the dog away she came running over to me and told me I was a good dog and that she loves me so much. I licked her face multiple times to tell her I love her too. I never left her side after that. She called me her little shadow. It was so cool I was her shadow. One of the things I hated when she had to go back home. I never knew when the next time I would see her again. When she called I would talk to her on the phone. When I heard her voice I would lick the phone. I missed her so much. She came out over the summers for two months.
This one summer could have been my last. We were getting work done on the house. And the humans opened the barn door. I went inside and saw this box on the floor. I wasn’t sure what it was but it tasted good. Then someone came in and ran over to me pulled the box from me and called my humans. They said I ate poison and they need to come as fast as they could. When they got there they gave me this stuff to make me vomit. I felt better after that. The people at the house saved my life. I was having a bad day that day. I had seizures in the morning but I mostly felt bad for my humans I worried them so much. I worried them the most of Christmas of 2007. I had many seizures and was unable to get up. They rushed me to the vet. I was unable to be there on Christmas. They missed me so much I knew they did. I know Maria did she loved spending Christmas with me next Christmas I will be with her I thought at the time. I knew I was getting old I wasn’t able to get up like I use to.
Going up the stairs with Maria was getting harder but she helped me. She gave me my pills for my seizures in the morning and night. She sat outside with me to make sure I ate. She helped me so much threw my final years. The summer of 2008 would be my last time with her. We spent two wonderful months together. She took me on walks and gave me biscuits and took many photos of me. I think she knew this would be the last time. I stayed strong for her and still made her smile and laugh. When we went on walks she would pack food for us and we would eat and she would tell me that I was very special to her.
I still remember the last time I saw her. She petted me and told me that she loved me and I licked her face. She also said that she would be coming out for Christmas to see me since she loved me. I am not able to be there for Christmas. She will be upset; I hope she remembers all the good times we had together. My human said that he was going to go see her and her school. I wish I could of gone like the time I did when she was little. Before he left he said that he loved me and said goodbye. I think he knew there was a chance that he wouldn’t be seeing me again. He had a friend of his come and takes care of my pack and me. I started to have seizures again and they wouldn’t stop I knew this was it. It’s going to get the best of me. I was rushed to the vets and they said I was very lucky because I almost didn’t come out of them. I got better threw the days. My back legs were weak I needed assistance to walk around. They found if they placed my food onto the other side of the room I would get up and eat it. Who wouldn’t get up and eat their food. They told me my humans called to check on me.
That made me feel good since I knew the loved me. I spent a good week in the vets and went home on a October 26th it felt so good to be home. I still needed some assistance but was able to get around. One morning I was eating and I guess I ate to fast. My stomach had twisted it hurt so bad. I went inside and my human realized something was wrong since my stomach was bigger then normal. They took me down to the vet and I had to have emergency surgery. That surgery saved my life the next day I was able to come home. I was uncomfortable lying down was hard for me. November 2 I got better I felt like I did. My humans said I was getting better. Those made me feel good. My pack knew I was sick so they left me alone most of the time witch was good. Then today I didn’t feel good I wondered off and laid under a tree. My humans called my name and looked for me then they found me. They put me on a blanket and laid me in the truck. They told me how good I was to them and that I was there for them. I knew that this, I would be making the journey today.
They brought me inside and I found out I had an infection and that my blood pressure was too low to do anything. So here I am here laying on the cold exam table being petted and having my humans saying that they love me. They said Maria would miss me very much. I lifted up my head and licked their hand multiple times. I knew Maria would want to be here at this time. Things just didn’t work out that way. I knew she loved me thought she told me every day. Here comes the vet my humans gave one last kiss and hug and left the room. I understand it was hard for them to stay. The vet told me that I am going to be okay. She placed the needle into me I could feel the drugs go into my vein. My eyes are getting heavier and heavier then I close them knowing that I am going to the bridge and that everyone loved me.
Well-loved. Like or Dislike:
5 
0
Posted By bdog
On February 2, 2010 at 8:20 pm
My dog likes to dance. At night we turn on some music and jam away.
One night my dog and I were dancing so loud the neighbor came over and asked us to quiet down. She thought a party was going on.
Needless to say, it was very embarrassing.
Well-loved. Like or Dislike:
6 
0
Posted By Eddie
On January 17, 2010 at 8:55 pm
I own a Doberman.
He is a BIG dog. Today, when we got home he had torn up everything I had left in the laundry basket.
I love the guy, but sometimes I wish we lived somewhere where he could stay outside all the time.
Long story short. Make sure to get your dog enough exercise. Otherwise they will cause problems.
Like or Dislike:
2 
0
Posted By Suz
On January 10, 2010 at 10:53 am
I love my dog Shnooks. He is a little dachshund, who loves to chase things.
He is so cute when he stares at dogs through the window. We live in a city so there are tons of dogs to bark at! When I tell him to quite down he settles very quickly and sits on my lap.
I have nothing funny to say… but he is a great dog and I want the world to know it!
Like or Dislike:
3 
0
Posted By Gooberella
On December 24, 2009 at 9:38 am
Every pooch has a tale to tell. How they met their person…the unconditional love between them and their person…and the pawprints left behind.
I’ve had dogs all my life. My dog Ginger grew with me from when I was just 3 years old to age 18. Next came my my dog Mandy, who saw me through college and moved out with me to my first home of my own. When Mandy passed I was devestated and my father’s dog Lindsey came to live with me to ease the pain. And that’s where it all began.
Lindsey was a character…she was a dog who thought she was a cat and was super spoiled from living with my dad who was retired and had spent every moment of the day with her. I had to adjust my life around Lindsey. I brought Lindsey to work with me one day. I worked with emotionally challanged teens in a government facitlity. Most of them, being abuse survivors, did not trust adults. But with a little dog’s presence and love they opened up their feelings while petting and brushing Lindsey.
Lindsey came to work with me everyday…she earned the name, little angel in fur.
Lindsey and I were a team for several years and then her health began to deteriorate, simply due to old age. She went blind, deaf, and it was becoming more difficult for her to walk. So we adjusted to her needs and we made her a buggy to push her in so she could still enjoy her daily strolls around the neighborhood. It was when she started to have breathing problems that my dad decided it was time for us to be strong for Lindsey and he brought her to the vet to be laid to sleep.
My next dog I named Xia. The meaning behind the name is a special one, it means the glow of a sunrise. And I noticed that Xia had one little bright pink toe. All the rest were black. My imagination took over. I started thinking…all my other dogs played major roles in my life, what roll would this little puppy play? What if her pink little toe had a meaning behind it? What if it meant that she was special…held some type of power, a legend behind the pink toe perhaps?
I began to write and the fantastical story filled with mystery, love, and adventure of how dogs are made for us was born and I named it, Angel in a Fur Coat.
http://www.Gooberella.com
Well-loved. Like or Dislike:
5 
0
Posted By Sara J
On December 14, 2009 at 1:56 pm
I have a Chihuahua named Fred. He is cute and spunky.
Yesterday he was looking out the window, and pawed at the screen so hard that it fell through.
As a result, poor little Fred fell too! And he could not figure out how to get back into the house to be with me. He was so confused!
Well-loved. Like or Dislike:
4 
0
Posted By Glenn Massie
On December 14, 2009 at 1:04 am
Those breeding dogs for profit have no reason to change their ways as long as people continue to purchase their puppies.
I recently posted a free article on my website titled “How To Buy A Puppy” that can be downloaded in a pdf document.
http://www.howtobuyapuppy.net
Glenn Massie
http://www.homeschoolingfordogs.com
Like or Dislike:
3 
2
Posted By Sean
On December 13, 2009 at 8:29 pm
My dog Bella gets really silly in the winter. She is scared of the wind rattling the window, but not scared to bark at it.
I keep telling her to relax, but she is not listening.
Like or Dislike:
3 
0
Posted By Lesia Hanks
On December 10, 2009 at 8:48 pm
His name was Gem. We adopted him from the local shelter after his picture was featured in the newspaper with the caption “sad eyes”. He had been neglected and mistreated. His flea collar had to be surgically removed, he had hardly any hair on his body, he had some trauma to his front feet and he was heartworm positive. My son saw his picture and fell in love. He was a mixed breed, black with white on his chest, long ears like a cocker spaniel, body more like a basset hound. He was afraid of everything! The kids could bring anything new into the house, like a balloon, and he would shake and cower. I didn’t know if he could ever learn to trust us.
He loved to dig holes in the back yard. He could open doors in the house by standing on his back legs and hitting the levers with his front paws. He was a real character, comical and loving. In time he not only learned that he was safe; he became an integral part of the family. He loved tiny animals – puppies and kittens were in danger of being licked to death!
Our miniature shnauzer gave birth to a litter of four puppies. They were precious, but one was born with a cleft palate and the vet didn’t think he would live. I bottle-fed him every four hours, with Gem always at my side, looking on and giving his approval. The puppy, Sebastian, had two surgeries and survived. They were great pals!
Gem loved the theme song to “Law and Order”. He would howl every time he heard it, and Sebastian and the other dogs would join in! This was the only time he did it, but he was consistent until he went deaf and could no longer hear it. Of course then he could no longer hear the thunder that terrified him, either, so I guess the trade off was okay.
He suffered from arthritis in both front feet from that long-ago trauma and he developed renal failure. One month shy of this 15th birthday he became very ill, and I had to do the hardest thing we pet lovers ever have to do for our furbabies.
I look back at his life, from the abused, frightened, dog we brought into our home, who was terrified by a ham at one time, to the comical character who babysat all the little animals that came through our home during his time with us, and I know he was happy. I know he lived up to his name, and our lived were enriched by him. At least he no longer had sad eyes.
RIP, Gem. I will always love and remember you.
Well-loved. Like or Dislike:
5 
0