Even When Wet Dad's Wings Worked

Katy is still not buying that those big metal contraptions fly despite Dad's absence and safe return. She was a bit stand offish last night when he came through the door. I did not mind because I had Dad all to myself for a change. Dad being fair sought out Katy and spent some time giving her attention. I think she was looking for those wings. Either way, she was punishing him for being gone and I knew she could not hold out long.

Sure enough, who was snuggled in bed with Mom, Dad, and me this morning?

Wordless Wednesday

Dad Thinks He Can Fly

Dad told us he was going to be flying for business. I know Dad likes to tease, but people do not have wings. How does he think he is going to fly?

Bailey says he has done it before. In fact, he says he knows dogs that have flown. He says Grandma's schnauzer Shadow has flown on something called an airplane. He tried to show me a picture of this huge machine on TV last night, but I am not buying it. There are all kinds of crazy things on TV and Dad told me they are not real and I do not need to be scared. So why would I believe that Dad is going to fly in a metal container?

The flying thing confuses Katy, but Dad does get on that metal thing. Shadow told me about his trips with Grandma. I would not want to do it, but he said it was fine. He has to stay in the kennel when he does not travel with Grandma, so I can see why he would rather make the trip. Katy and I get to go to play group so it is less scary than getting on a plane or a long car ride.

We Missed Paws in the Park

First Dad got sick, then Mom. Mom had something Bailey thought sounded like broccoli. He immediately started lecturing me that this was our chance to convince Mom and Dad that veggie gardens were dangerous. I pointed out to him that Dad had said bronchitis, not broccoli and he then just started sitting on Mom’s feet leaving me to do all the doggy nursing for Mom and Dad. I am exhausted. There is much to learn about humans. First, Dad has finally convinced me that Mom is not barking in a hostile tone, he calls it coughing. I was confused because she would be petting my ears, or rubbing my back and then start in this very rude tone. Mom has never been known to bark and it was upsetting. Bailey seemed to know about coughing. I guess this is not his first experience with it.

Bailey was more upset about missing Paws in the Park then I was, although the dog massage sounded interesting. Mom says we have another event coming up in June if everyone gets and stays healthy.

Katy and Grandma

My Mom was up to visit at Christmas, so she and Katy did meet. However, the house was crowded and Katy was overwhelmed with the changes to the house and the number of people who seemed to find a all her favorite spots fun to hang out in. Bailey enjoyed Grandma's attention while Katy hid away from all the excitement.

Mom usually makes a spring or summer visit. Last year she came for her granddaughter’s graduation, this year around Mother's Day and her birthday. She came by the house for a birthday lunch and was determined to meet the newest doggy grandchild.

Some people have suggested Katy may be shy by nature. However, I have seen signs that Katy really wants to join the family gatherings, she just is afraid of the outcome. I have tried a strategy of placing her on her favorite couch, petting her and comforting her and having someone sit in a chair next to the couch and just scratching her ears or lightly petting her. This strategy has been effective. She has licked a few of these people and when released even tried to overcome her fears and approach them. She has seen Bailey get lots of Grandma love and she wants in on Bailey's action. Bailey is content to let Katy stay on the outside looking in. He is more than happy to have the guests to himself, especially Grandma. Bailey's reaction has encouraged Katy to try even harder to overcome her fears.

She is making huge progress. It is hard for outsiders to see, but I can see confidence that was not present in September.

Save a Dog's 2011 Paws in the Park

I love the Wayside Inn area in Sudbury, Massachusetts. I have been having picnics with family and the dogs there for years. Next Sunday, May 22, Save a Dog is having their 2011 Paws in the Park event at the Longfellow Wayside Inn and you can attend with family and dogs. The event is not free. There a $10 entry fee or equivalent pledge per adult. I am not associated with Save a Dog, but I have been looking for dog friendly local events to take Katy and Bailey to and find it even better when they benefit other rescue dogs.

You can find a list of other events and vendors that will be at the event by checking out their website. If you are interested in adoption this is a great chance to learn more about Save a Dog and the dogs they have available, too.

Shelties React to Celtic's Playoff Loss

My husband is a huge sports fan and Bailey has been his loyal watching companion since he arrived. For the first time, Katy jumped up during the game and snuggled with hubby last night, as the situation was tense. We shot this photograph, as it was clear the Celtic’s playoff hopes were over for the season. My husband is still holding out hope for the Bruins and Katy does seem fascinated by the moving puck. Bailey does not have too many sports he is not willing to sit and watch.

Pictures may not be used without written permission.