Jacob The Keeper

Just Jake

2011-12-15T14:29:00.001-08:00

Just Jake, a photo by carolOnline on Flickr.

Enjoying life and all the people in my life

Jakey Ready for Christmas

2011-12-13T00:02:00.001-08:00

Jakey Ready for Christmas, a photo by carolOnline on Flickr.

He's been to Groomimgdales had his shampoo, nails, teeth...the works!

When you have long ears

2011-01-29T19:11:00.000-08:00

Jake's ears are so long that when he is watching TV, he tends to chew on the hair on his own ear!

Watching, listening

2011-01-09T15:29:00.001-08:00

DSC_1034, originally uploaded by carolOnline.

Jake is easily entertained :)

Relaxing after dinner

2011-01-09T15:24:00.000-08:00

When not in my lap watching a video, or listening to music while I read, Jake always finds a comfy spot to relax:

Happy New Year

2011-01-08T23:39:00.000-08:00

Here's Lookin' Atcha! May 2011 be all you can make it into!

We had an excellent Christmas here. Carol got an early Christmas present; a new granddaughter named Charlie arrived the end of November:

Jake put on his decorative scarf, went to the groomer, enjoyed the season:

Jake's Baaaack! We moved

2010-12-12T22:18:00.000-08:00

Above photo, you'll see Jake (and me) the day he moved into our new home. He's so happy to be back with me once more forever. This was over 3 months ago. We've been veeeerrrry busy :)

Visiting here and there

2010-06-20T21:41:00.000-07:00

Mirana and Kyle have had Jake as their house guest for over two weeks now. He also ventured over to Sandra for what we hoped would be a trip to visit me and then also a trip to the vet for new rabies tag. Sandra finished Jake's niece "Birdie" from BBE class w/ three majors last weekend. Must have been too much excitement because she went down and out with a bug for the week that was. Mike pitched in and took Jake to vet, returned Jake to Mirana. When that large family goes off camping, Jake will then migrate to Mia's! Soon after that I hope to have him with me again. That traveler has been gone too long!

Jake Sends His Love

2010-04-16T00:18:00.000-07:00

Here is Jake, actually posing for a shot!

2010-03-29T09:59:00.000-07:00

Sunshine and Laughter

2009-12-28T22:17:00.000-08:00

Meet Jill and Michelle, two of my favorite neighbors!

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas

2009-12-23T22:21:00.000-08:00

Dreams of Sugarplums

2009-12-23T21:31:00.000-08:00

2009-12-06T23:45:00.000-08:00

Pink Glove Dance

2009-11-29T20:23:00.000-08:00

Posted on Jake's blogspot because "Jacobs Keeper," Carol (that would be me,) is a 2X BR CA survivor. You gotta love this Pink Glove Dance!

Caught Napping

2009-11-07T15:23:00.000-08:00

Jake had some minor surgery almost two weeks ago. He stayed at the Animal Hospital overnight and then went to convalesce at my friend Sandra's home. Sandra is Jake's breeder and generously suggested she keep Jake after his surgery until he could be more active. Now Jake enjoys short walks, long naps! I bet this phase will not last much longer and enjoy the extra time with him sleeping in my lap while I do various paperwork or indulge in a video.

Sandra and Phoebe

2009-10-29T20:11:00.000-07:00

Sandra came for dinner, bringing Phoebe the Cavalier. Phoebe, although not one of Jake's relatives, lives w/ Sandra where Jake is recouperating from surgery. The report on Jake is that he is doing well. Just a dental, a hernia repair and neuter so waiting for the hernia repair to heal. He is to be kept quiet for about 10 days. Jake doesn't do "quiet" without a good bit of restraint!

Birdie took a Major on Saturday

2009-10-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

Birdie, Jake's niece, is pictured here going straight from Show Dog in Vancouver this weekend to Lap Dog Extraordinaire an hour later. Birdie, onwned and bred by Sandra Reiley-Lince, and handled by Sandra who reported "she was 'up', stacking and placing herself properly, and wagging the whole time, so that part was good. But the great part was that she won the BBE class of SEVEN bitches (wowzers!), and then was Winners Bitch, Best BBE, and BOS for FOUR POINTS!!! This same judge (Murrel Purkhiser) gave a major to JoJo (eons ago)." JoJo, for the unitiated, is Jake's litter brother and a very handsome CH Ruby Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

2009-10-23T10:17:00.000-07:00

Birdie came in dressed for the season.

Busy week, happy it is Sat night

2009-10-10T19:58:00.000-07:00

&nbs
Jake is ready for a nice, quiet Saturday night. Been a busy week!

Jake's busy week, part 2

2009-10-10T19:54:00.000-07:00

Jake's busy week

2009-10-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

Perfect weather and lots of outdoor opportunities. Walks, some runs, and then also some pupnaps.

2009-10-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

More trips to the park!

2009-09-24T21:04:00.000-07:00

Some afternoon fun in the park

2009-09-18T19:42:00.000-07:00

Jake keeps an eye on Mummy

2009-09-17T20:22:00.000-07:00

Jake's Mummy is at it again...shooting photos. This requires a watchful eye.

Have You Met Birdie?

2009-09-11T21:47:00.000-07:00

This is Jake's brother's daughter, "Birdie." She came for a visit one night, along with Sandra, her owner and Jake's breeder, for dinner and a concert in our park. She is absolutely adorable.

2009-09-06T00:25:00.000-07:00

Jake always has a blast when Grace comes. They've even tried a dance routine!

Greg came from California

2009-09-02T17:48:00.000-07:00

Jake enjoyed Greg's visit, as you can see! Having a wonderful summer (with the exception of those two hot weeks.) Eager for fall and long walks on cool, crisp PNW days.

Jake and Friends

2009-09-02T17:42:00.000-07:00

Good to the Last Bite!

2009-07-25T19:55:00.000-07:00

Family brightens coming days

2009-06-20T23:59:00.000-07:00

Missing John terribly

2009-06-03T19:49:00.000-07:00

Ready to walk

2009-04-17T18:04:00.000-07:00

Jake went to the groomer and now he wants to take a long walk. Windy, so looks more like bad hair day than grooming day!

Columbia River CKCSC has New Logo

2009-04-17T01:02:00.000-07:00

This is the beautiful new Columbia River CKCSC logo. We owe a HUGE thank you to Ken Ottinger for creating this
wonderful work of art!!! Ken and Laura Ottinger are premier artists who have captured Cavaliers (and others) in paintings, sculpture and jewelry.

Sunshine, friends and neighbors

2009-04-06T17:41:00.000-07:00

It seemed to be an especially long winter. Now dark days, rain, snow, ice have been replaced with sunshine and longer daylight hours, too! The Tibetan Terrier puppy was a wonderful addition for neighbors and also as a playmate for Jake. Meanwhile, I think Patt is going to require windshield wipers for her glasses after Jake's greeting today.

Little Bone Feet...so CUTE!

2009-04-04T11:34:00.000-07:00

Spaniel Bowls

2009-04-03T21:08:00.000-07:00

Cindy Koehring makes these lovely Spaniel Bowls. Practical as well as pretty, they keep Jake's ears dry when he drinks his water! The clay and glazes are made in the USA and the bowls are microwave and dishwasher safe.

Saturday Bath

2009-03-31T14:17:00.000-07:00

Jake is being patient while I try to take a photo of black dog on a dark day in dim lighting. He's good. As for my skills as a photog, there's much room for improvement!

Meet Jake's Mummy!

2009-03-21T01:54:00.000-07:00

Pictured here is Jake's dam...the lovely "Silly Tilly," officially Champion Covington Scintillating Star, owned by Sandra Reiley-Lince. Image is so appealing it just screamed "blog me!"

~Photograph courtesy Sandra L Reiley-Lince

Oregon Lobby Update, HB 2470

2009-03-18T19:36:00.000-07:00

We're not pleased at all with Oregon's HB 2470. On Monday, March 30, Oregon HB 2470 is anticipated to receive its second hearing and a possible vote at 3:00 pm that day in the House Consumer Protection Committee. We strongly feel that we can make the greatest impact by combining our lobbying efforts with especially high turnout at the hearing.

NAIA has made it clear that their goal is to identify a realistic, enforceable way to help eliminate substandard kennels that won’t unfairly target and punish responsible breeders. The message to convey on March 30th will be that responsible animal owners want to support legislation that punishes unethical breeders, and NAIA has an alternative solution that we can all stand behind. Let's all get behind this message! Safeguard the rights of responsible dog owners, responsible and ethical breeders.

Ignorance is bliss...

2009-03-12T20:54:00.001-07:00

Until it affects you, ignorance is bliss!

***People don’t realize that the Animal Rights movement has nothing to do with the welfare of the animals - genuine animal welfare is being sacrificed for a political victory over animal owners.***

Jake writes more about this on his "A Bark in Time."

Technorati Tags: A Bark in Time,Ignorance is bliss

Yummy

2009-03-07T15:31:00.000-08:00

2009-03-04T21:49:00.000-08:00

A Bark in Time

2009-02-27T14:28:00.000-08:00

Be sure to bookmark A Bark in Time to follow news on Oregon HB 2470 as well as legislation in other states that could heavily impact both responsible breeders and pet owners alike. Jake is happy to report that our voices were heard in Salem. Representative Paul Holvey, serving as both Committee Chair and chief sponsor of the bill, is going to convene a special work group to revisit the language and consider amendments. Details will follow on A Bark in Time as HB 2470 makes it way thru the system. We find it imperative that puppy mills and any place where dogs are not properly housed, fed, loved and cared for be regulated and therefore closed by proper legal means, while at the same time protecting the rights of ethical breeders and pet owners alike.

Oregon HB 2470 Scheduled for Hearing Monday

2009-02-19T21:08:00.000-08:00

What we object to most of all in Oregon HB 2470 is the following:

“Exempts shelters, veterinarians, pet stores and research facilities from new standards of care.”

Join the NAIA Trust to stay abrest of this and many other issues that will ulitmately impact every household that owns or wishes to own a dog, cat, or other domestic animals. Note their Mission Statement:

“The Mission of NAIA Trust is to promote the welfare of animals, strengthen the human-animal bond and safeguard the rights of responsible animal owners, enthusiasts and professionals through education, legislation and the courts.” On the Legislative page of NAIA Trust is a plea to “help us educate the committee.” We must take action now.

The key word here is “responsible.” Do you really feel that pet stores selling the cute little puppy in the window can in any way be defined as “responsible?” Rarely, if ever. Nor are many other sources of your next dog. Oregon HB 2470 Scheduled for Hearing Monday exempts those who are most in need of strict regulation

The human animal bond is a strong one, as photos on this blog clearly demonstrate. Eliminate the responsible breeders and dogs the quality of Jake will fade from the landscape. Also be sure to check out "A Bark in Time!"

Itchmo Forums Back Online!!!

2009-02-18T21:33:00.000-08:00

It doesn't get much better than this. Not only did our Pacific NW have sunshine and clear blue skies, but the really big news is that Itchmo Forums is back online! Weeks of server problems had all of us in withdrawal. Important information is found on Itchmo Forums for such a wide variety of topics. Honestly, I can not begin to imagine the number of especially cats and also many dogs whose very lives were saved during the pet food disasters of 2007.

Insanity in New Hampshire

2009-02-14T00:40:00.001-08:00

The New Hampshire legislation is among the most restrictive anti-hobbyist bills we have ever seen. It was presented in the House Environment and Agriculture committee today for a hearing. Dog owners were not informed of the hearing, and the results have not been made available. The legislation is scheduled to move out of committee following an executive session on February 19.

House Bill 337 would:

· Allow New Hampshire residents to sell only one dog or cat a year.

· Allow a maximum of no more than two additional sales by a special permit, for $25 apiece. No one could receive more than two special permits.

· Impose fines of $50 to $200 would be imposed. All permit fee revenues and fines would be placed in a special fund for spaying and neutering pets.

· Only large commercial kennels are exempt.(what is the definition and why can large kennels be approved over the hobby breeder?)

Here is a link to the actual text of the legislation.

The American Sporting Dog Alliance is urging all New Hampshire dog owners to immediately contact each member of this committee and express strong opposition. It is critical to do this quickly, before the February 19 executive session.

Here is a link to the names of each member of the committee.

Clicking on a name will bring up a page with contact information for
phone,
surface mail, fax and email.

Vivi Anne Koehring

2009-02-07T13:20:00.000-08:00

Isn't this the most adorable puppy and equally precious photo of Vivi Anne with one of Cindy Koehring's Spaniel Bowls! A beautiful Blenheim owned and bred by Cindy, "Vivi Anne" is 14 weeks old in this shot. Cindy also made the Spaniel Bowl. Jake has a set of the bowls and seems very attached to them. He gets so upset when his water bowl goes into the dishwasher we have had to order a second bowl just to keep peace in the household. Jake even started barking at the counter top when his clean food dish was up there instead of on the floor. I decided no harm in having this dish on the floor next to his water bowl and so Jake got his way. Again! (photo above of Vivi Anne by Cindy Koehring and used with permission)
Here is Jake with his Spaniel Bowls

Would like to go to Westminster!

2009-02-06T01:41:00.000-08:00

Westminster Kennel Club

2009-02-03T16:39:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendars for Monday and Tuesday so you catch the Westminster Kennel Club show. Here's the complete judging schedule. Some of the breeds will be seen streaming live, I'm assuming from the Westminster Kennel Club site. Here's a schedule. Then the Groups will be televised. See the Westminster Kennel Club site for details. I think West Coast is time delay. That's the way it has always worked. Friends of mine are going. Each year I usually know someone attending, showing and/or judging. As for me, well, I've never been!

TV coverage starts on USA Networks. Then it immediately switches to CNBC for the rest of the evening.

Things We Can Learn from a Dog

2009-01-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

Photography by Julie-Anne, a friend who lives in the land DownUnder, and used w/ permission. The two Cavaliers belong to "Jules" and her husband Michael and are called Joey and Renae. Aren't they lovely! The message from Joey and Renae reads:

Things We Can Learn From A Dog

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.
Allow the experience of fresh air &
the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
When it's in your best interest, practice obedience.
Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
Take naps & stretch before rising.
Run, romp & play daily.
Eat with gusto & enthusiasm.
Be Loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent,
sit close by & nuzzle them gently.
Thrive on attention & let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On hot days, drink lots of water & lay under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around & wag your entire body.
No matter how often you're scolded,
don't buy into the guilt thing & pout...
run right back & make friends.
Bond with your pack.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

-Author Unknown

Happy New Year! Welcome to 2009

2009-01-01T23:55:00.001-08:00

2008-12-29T17:41:00.000-08:00

Collages for Calendar 2009

2008-12-07T15:25:00.000-08:00

I've been playing with collages to add to our 2009 Calendar. Jake always makes a good model. The next creation will be of his two favorite kids, those redheads we call Sugar and Spice.

December!

2008-12-02T18:22:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving, USA

2008-11-28T18:51:00.000-08:00

We hope all of Jake's "adoring fans" had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Family and friends and certainly the food on our table are just some of the many things we celebrate. Each day is a gift, may we make the most of it as we look forward to the future and reflect on such a rich past.
Here's Jake in my lap on my yellow blanket. Usually a very busy, active little guy, he sometimes takes it to heart that his breed is notoriously a lapdog and goes about this seriously, particularly on cold, damp Pacific NW winter days.

Celebrating Jake's Third Birthday

2008-11-08T01:07:00.000-08:00

We're celebrating Jake's 3rd birthday in November, so it seems fitting to enjoy a slideshow of these last 12 months!

Beautiful Fall

2008-10-29T17:19:00.000-07:00

We've been enjoying a beautiful fall, taking time for three walks each day and some leisurely visits to parks. The rest of the time has been spent trouble shooting our internet and phone problems. No connection from my own workstation meant no sharing photos that were newly loaded on the hard drive. Still veeeery sloooow internet but at least I can get online, and thus only one shot for now. You'll see more of our vivid fall colors later. Jake is hoping the rains will hold off as long as possible. Weather report says starting Friday we'll have many days of rain, but they've been wrong before!

My Favorite Things

2008-10-19T16:05:00.000-07:00

Here are two of my favorite things when aiming my lense! I call the two of them J 'n J, because they are rarely far apart when we're out for exercise.

Playgrounds and Parks

2008-10-19T15:59:00.000-07:00

This has been a GR8 month so far for enjoying playgrounds and parks in the area. I do hope winter doesn't hit too soon. Jake has adopted a very unkempt, touseled hairstyle. He will visit the groomer this week, so watch for better photos coming up. His coat has beed dry and shedding, probably getting ready to put in new hair for the coming cold weather.

Crisp Autumn Afternoon

2008-10-07T22:48:00.000-07:00

We went for our usual afternoon walk and found a place out of the wind just to enjoy the last bit of day before heading home.

Fall is in the air today

2008-10-05T01:18:00.000-07:00

Windy day bringing more leaves off our trees before they've even given us a show of good fall color. Jake enjoys being out this afternoon. Gusty winds but no rain, off and on a little hint of sunshine!

Last Day of September

2008-09-30T21:16:00.000-07:00

Here we are on the last day of September, late in the afternoon. It's J 'n J together, being patient while I grab a shot or two while we three are out to enjoy perfect weather and some neighbors along the way. Some of the best things in life are actually free! You can tell Jake likes this to be part of his day. So do we, but we manage to refrain from the kind of exhuberant activity Jake displays w/ wagging tail and leaping about at the sight of his own buddies.

Jake's Playground

2008-09-28T21:33:00.000-07:00

Here we are in our park, but where are all the kids? It looks like Jake's private playground!

Walk, watch soccer practice, relax

2008-09-17T23:20:00.000-07:00

Late this afternoon we went for a walk, watched a little soccer practice, walked some more and then just hung out in the park. Warm day but fall is in the air. We've just finished some days with mid 90's in the afternoons and the hot, dry summer has already had an effect on so many trees. I wonder what our fall color will be like.

Back from the groomer

2008-07-26T21:34:00.001-07:00

Jake just came home from the groomer, and guess what he does first...finds a nice cool spot that just got watered, of course! His groomer, Mirana, is moving out of state. I don't know who will miss her the most, Jake or us. He looked so cute here I had to let him enjoy his fun times in the vinca and just shoot some photos of him before he got his coat into too much. Actually, we went for a walk right after this and he came home none the worse for his romping around. He elected to find a comfy spot in the living room and settle down for an afternoon nap.

2008-07-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

Some hot summer afternoons are best spent indoors relaxing in the living room.

Thinking about CA AB 1634

2008-07-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

This is same number but a new bill from last year's MSN (Mandatory Spay Neuter)which failed. It's a much better bill yet still leaves concerns. See the AKC News for details. To quote just a part from that "However, the American Kennel Club remains concerned that under this new bill localities are still permitted to enact mandatory spay/neuter laws, as well as the potential for abuse of enforcement."

Edited to note that CA AB 1634 "mutated" several times and now may be slipped into another bill altogether. This is an outrage. AKC for a time went from supporting their AKC membership, to supporting an altered AB 1634, sidestepped to neutral and, I think, now due to somebody actually thinking it through as Levine went back on his word, AKC is once again opposed to any bill currently up for vote with this MSN language embedded in it. The officers and baord members of AKC should be full of shame for not holding firm against this bill in the first place, supporting their good members in California.

The answer is first to enforce local laws already on the books. The second step is to address the very large problem of puppy mills. Those are regulated by Dept of Agriculture and will not be touched by this pending legislation and yet that is where the largest part of the problem lies.

Jake enjoys social time out for walks

2008-07-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

These two are more of Jake's favorite buddies when we're out for walks. One of them doesn't live in the neighborhood but comes to visit when his owners are out of town. Owners are fishing up a long, long trek on the Appalachian Trail. I think they've been gone 3 or 4 months! What a hike that is!!!

Evening in the park

2008-07-08T21:30:00.000-07:00

Playtime, Partytime

2008-07-05T20:51:00.000-07:00

Here's Jake with that look we call "Let The Games Begin!" on July 4, 2008. He's two and a half but still has the heart and spirit of a puppy.

Getting ready for July 4

2008-07-02T22:05:00.000-07:00

Good old summertime

2008-06-29T01:10:00.000-07:00

Jake got a summer haircut. However, looking at other Cavaliers, Jake is still dripping in coat in comparison to most others. Before this cut it was touching the ground. His tail became our neighborhood street sweeper as we walked several times each day! Lovely for the carpet when the debris tangled in his coat would fall out before I could brush it out.
Attack games between these two are a frequent favorite activity!

Here's Lookin' Atcha!

2008-06-21T19:51:00.000-07:00

June 14 and beautiful weather!

2008-06-15T17:11:00.000-07:00

Spring, real spring finally hit with absolutely perfect weather. We spent the afternoon outside enjoying the day.

John took some shots

2008-06-12T13:13:00.000-07:00

Here's Jake w/ me. Yes, they're current photos! We've had some rather cold days for June, light drizzle as well making it feel like winter, thus the heavy jacket on this late afternoon series. It was barely over 50 and felt more like 40 something degrees. Jake was being extra lovey. I think he was cold, too! I took him for a little run after this, and he warmed up right away. As I write this, our weather has turned to sunny with just a cool breeze, and it promises to me a good afternoon. These photos are from only a couple of days ago:

It was a GR8 Day!

2008-06-10T23:16:00.000-07:00

Blue skies

2008-06-04T19:22:00.000-07:00

I love blue sky days, especially after the short, dark winter days in the Pacific NW. What you see is a photo actually taken a week ago, when we thought we were in for a beautiful Memorial Day weekend after all. Well, that didn't materialize. Memorial Day was cold, w/ low clouds and rain. It was especially a bad day for this kind of weather because all of us wanted to attend at least one Memorial Day ceremony to honor those who died so that we might live free and also to honor all the men and women who have served in the past and are serving right now today. Some of the flyovers during the ceremonies were delayed due to the heavy clouds, but the jets did appear. John's Uncle Syd was the youngest Ace in WW I and also flew in WW II, as did a second, younger Uncle. John's brother was on the dock in San Diego, a Navy pilot about to depart for duty in the Pacific when WW II ended. How fortunate that all three were able to return home. We should always think of those who did not and the families who would not see their loved ones again. War is a terrible thing. Sometimes it is necessary. How many wars in history have been fought for the right reasons?

These are Jake's kids!

2008-05-20T18:52:00.000-07:00

Here's the little sis

Now meet big sis

They spent alot of time climbing the trees!

But that was over a week ago. It was nice but chilly. Then we had a series of 99 degree days. The yard became parched, the flowers wilted. Today we have had showers and much milder temps. Jake helped take a few pictures

Hot Friday!

2008-05-16T18:37:00.000-07:00

By the time Carol (that's me, Jake's Private Secretary) got dressed and ready to venture outside it was already 99 in the shade, so Jake and John went for a very abbreviated walk. Perhaps all three of us will venture out tonight! Dinner is leftover salmon, cooked on the grill w/ slices of lemon and also fresh dill on Wednesday. We'll steam a few veggies and call it good. Jake will get a bit of all of it, minced up and served over his kibble.

Jake loves his handmade Spaniel Bowls. I must get photos of him eating out of the food one, drinking from the water bowl that is nicely designed so his ears don't get wet. Cindy Koehring made the "Alfred Blue" ones for Jake!

We three got out for that Friday night walk. The sky was beautiful, but of course by the time I got my camera the best of it was gone, so I just took some night shots of Jake. This is interesting when it is pitch dark and you're shooting a black dog.

2008-05-14T20:48:00.001-07:00

Friday was a gorgeous day

2008-05-10T11:04:00.000-07:00

We spent the afternoon outside, going to the park, taking a long walk, visiting w/ neighbors. Carol took alot of photos!

We had blue skies, not a hint of rain. It was in the 60's with quite a breeze. That makes the flowers move around but the shots turned out sharp anyway!

2008-05-07T16:52:00.000-07:00

It is time for Jake's annual routine visit to his veterinarian. He'll have physical exam, blood work, stool sample checked and perhaps urinalysis as well. (His physical is definitely more thorough than any we get these days, and this is a good thing.) Next comes the question of vaccines, and here is where the water gets a bit muddy. His last rabies was a year ago. It was for 3 years, so that is not in question. I'm leaning towards asking to have titers done before giving any other immunizations. The actual appropriate thing to do depends on the individual dog, the geographical area you live in, and also the general lifestyle of the dog and family. I lean towards the "older" way of doing things if dealing with a hunting dog, show or competition dog, one that goes camping all over in the USA, and those in "doggy day care." This would call for annual vaccinations, no question at all. Jake is much more exposed to things than just the average little housedog but much less than those involved in competition and exposure to large numbers of strange dogs.

Here is what the AAHA has to say on the topic of canine vaccination.

Then there is Dr. Jean Dodds recommended vaccination protocols.

Please vote no on Oregon Measure 53

2008-05-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

Please vote no on Oregon Measure 53........

On the surface, it sounds like a good idea...give the police power to confiscate money,
guns, drugs, etc., and, oh, by the way... find loving homes for neglected animals without having to wait for
due process. Few people are going to find any harm in this measure
unless they understand the mentality of those who managed to slide in
the animal connection.

The problem with Measure 53 is that animal shelters and rescues
nationwide have become infiltrated with animal rights activists
associated with organizations whose agendas are not really to protect
animals, but to eliminate the rights of pet owners to have companion
pets or working dogs or horses at all. These groups are actively working
to have mandatory spay and neuter laws passed in a number of states and
communities, and we are fighting AB 1634 in California again,
after the hard work of many fanciers managed to get it tabled last year.
The quickest way to prevent pet ownership after all is to make it
impossible for any more puppies or kittens to be born. If they cannot
pass MSN (Mandatory Spay/Neuter) laws, the next logical step is to simply find ways to take
animals away from their legal owners without due process.
If there was any reasonable assurance that this sort of forfeiture law
would only be used in situations where animals were being neglected and
were at risk, it might be worth supporting, but given the political
tactics I've seen in the AR movement to date, and seeing how the humane
movement has been hijacked by the animal rights extremists, I am
personally concerned that this will become a means for ARs to target
even conscientious pet owners and breeders and gain control of their
animals, whether those animals need "rescuing" or not... but by the time
the situation is ever sorted out, the animals will be neutered and long
gone.

VOTE NO ON MEASURE 53!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-03T21:39:00.000-07:00

&nbs
Friday we went to the park, walked around the block and checked out all the flowers. When we returned home George came along (George is Jake's pal, the Aussie) All in all we just goofed off outside for about half the day. Good thing because today it was cool and raining. Tomorrow is supposed to be warm and sunny again, so we have plans to make the most of it.

Last day of April

2008-04-30T21:24:00.000-07:00

Today was cool with clouds and rain moving thru, but off and on the sun came out. Jake loves to take long, brisk walks when it's in the 50's and low 60's but at the same time he hates rain. Today he got lucky and no rain on any of his walks! Can you find the single, long black hair on the face of the yellow pansy? That would be Jake's!

Keep those nails short

2008-04-28T00:55:00.000-07:00

Here is a very detailed page on how to keep those nails short and smooth using a Dremel. This was written by Dawn S. Garrett on her DoberDawn dot com website. She takes you step by step so it is possible to start even with an adult dog never exposed to the Dremel grinding method. Obviously, it is much easier to start a puppy very young, almost from birth getting used to having his/her feet and toes touched and then moving on to the shortening process as seen on the page linked here.

Why is it...

2008-04-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

you groom the dog and because finally there is a day without rain you go outside, and the dog finds the dirtiest place within reach of the lead to sit down???!!!

Then Jake gives me that innocent look.

Muppet

2008-04-19T20:32:00.000-07:00

"Muppet" is far and away Jake's favorite toy. It has a loud squeaker, and Jake runs around the house with his "Muppet" squeaking away! When Jake is particularly pleased about something he literally runs laps up and down the hallway with his Muppet sqeaking and squealing and Jake with the happiest look on his face.

Jake thinks George is cool!

2008-04-17T21:48:00.000-07:00

Bill Buckley's Most Beautiful Dogs

2008-04-05T17:49:00.000-07:00

I thought that perhaps you would enjoy reading a piece which the late William F. Buckley, Jr, wrote about his beloved Cavalier King Charles spaniels. Bill and his wife, Pat, had at least a couple of them continuously since the 1960s. Below is what he wrote, which has been re-published in his memorial edition of his magazine, National Review
(March 24 issue, page 42) :

"I have never understood why, when there are beautiful dogs one can acquire, people should go out of their way to acquire non-beautiful dogs. I know better than to give examples, because nothing arouses owners more than the suggestion that their breed is less than the most desirable in the world. But admit it, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are strikingly attractive. And just as one feels the impulse to stroke them, they feel the impulse to be stroked. Sam and Fred can spend hours being fondled, as you read your book, or talk to your guest. But then they will exhibit their independence. It disappoints me only that they do not like my study. Rowley used to come to my study once every hour or so, to have an extended love-in, during which we would exchange our eternal vows. Sam and Fred will accompany me to my study, and then leave, to play elsewhere or simply to be in the kitchen, or, preferably -- always, if she is there -- with Pat."

As a side note, the Reagan's "Rex" came to them thru the Buckeys. He was, I think, the first and so far only Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in the White House. I remember seeing him on the White House lawn, coming and going with President Reagan and the First Lady as they boarded the helicopter. Rex went to Camp David this way and also flew on Air Force One for getaways to the Ranch in California. Rex was such a good ambassador for his breed and looked very much as if he belonged in the White House. Those were happy years!

Above photo was located in "Presidential Pets" on the White House website.

Photoshop Express

2008-03-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

Jake

If I see something new relating to photography or blogs I seem compelled to try it. This time it's Adobe Photoshop Express. We have the full blown product, which has quite a steep learning curve, also have a somewhat outdated version of Photoshop Elements. This latest from Adobe is online editing, storing, and sharing s/w.

One click on Jake's photo above will take you to a slideshow which fills your browser. Depending on your connection speed it may take a few seconds to load.

Later today I added another album while playing w/ the new Adobe Photoshop Express.

Sugar 'N Spice

Click on the photo to see a short slideshow of Jake's favorite kids. We call them Sugar 'N Spice.

Jake gets his calendar ready for April

2008-03-23T20:49:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I make individual calendar pages! Jake has plans for April, so this one will be for him!

Looking forward to spring!

2008-02-26T12:44:00.000-08:00

The photo above is actually from last May. We are all looking forward to spring. Warm weather. Flowers. Lots of time outdoors on walks and meeting up with our friends and family in the park! We have had some nice sunshine for this time of year already. Those walks in snow and ice are not nearly as much fun as going out when there's no slipping and sliding and falling down! Well, Jake doesn't fall down, but John does when he hits black ice and didn't see it ahead of time. Instead of those fast walks in bad weather, when spring comes we take Jake along on many expeditions just to shoot some photos, like one of the favorites below:

Tube feeding little Cavalier puppy

2008-02-10T16:58:00.000-08:00

Above is Dr. Larry and Karen Bernstein feeding a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy with a catheter and syringe. This, I think, is a wonderful video to give you confidence to tube feed when necessary. I've tended to prefer bottle feeding when one of our Labrador litters or puppies required our help but often that isn't even an option.

Westminster Kennel Club Show

2008-02-08T20:44:00.000-08:00

Don't miss the big annual Westminster Kennel Club show in New York coming up on Monday and Tuesday, February 11 and 12. A special note is that on Monday our television coverage jumps from first hour on USA Network over to CNBC for the following two hours. On Tuesday we have coverage on USA Network for the full 3 hours, which includes the conclusion of this big two day even with Best In Show competition and award presentation. First see the TV coverage page on Westminster KC site and then check your local listings. Last year we enjoyed it in HD here at home. As far as I've been able to tell at this time, we will not get to view the entire two nights in HD! What a let down. We'll enjoy it anyway. Jake stayed interested in this right along with us in 2007.

Legislation and Mandatory Spay/Neuter

2008-01-29T12:00:00.000-08:00

With new legislation already in place in some cities and pending legislation in many more for mandatory spay/neuter of all dogs more attention needs to be paid to what results this brings about. I find that in most cases the laws that require this to be done by four months of age are reprehensible and not well thought out. Even six months of age is too young! For the most part these draconian bits of legislation have been sponsored by PETA and HSUS. Those organizations would very much like to see no pets of any kind in any household. Look at it this way, if they were to actually accomplish spay/neuter of ALL dogs before 4 months of age, how long would it be before there were no dogs at all in the USA? I suppose we could always turn to other countries, but to do this properly one would need to visit breeders and get to know many dogs before being able to properly select type, temperament, health, etc. It would be very costly, and then once you have actually purchased an adult or a puppy, it would immediately be required to conform to the spay/neuter law in your own town or county. Do we really want to live our lives without our much loved canine family members? Not me! In some cases I will admit breeders here in the USA have brought some of this on themselves by not knowing their puppy buyers well enough, and this is indeed a sad thing. Properly placing a puppy needs to go way beyond handing someone a questionnaire to fill out, accepting and check and then not having any further contact. However, it is a rather rare case that a puppy from a conscientious breeder ever finds itself turned in to an animal shelter or allowed to run the streets at will. Meanwhile, even veterinary hospitals are pushing spay/neuter heavily on the even most careful and conscientious of their dog owning clients. If they feel they must do this then they should at least be mindful of better ages for spay/neuter than four or even six months of age. Read this article. Print it out and take it to your own vet. Spay/neuter is indeed a good and necessary thing in many cases, especially in the case of your female dogs, referred to as "bitches" in the dog world, but when this is done it should happen at a more practical age than the now suggested four months in legislation pending across the country. I like to see full adult growth, waiting until bone plates have closed. More studies need to be done on this subject, but it should most definitely be up to the breeder of any puppy and then to the owner of that puppy or adult dog as to when and if spay/neuter should take place.

2008-01-25T00:18:00.000-08:00

Jake got thoroughly groomed today. He had his three daily walks. He has a new chew toy. Life is good!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-20T23:35:00.001-08:00

We went to a couple of dog shows to get the New Year started off right. Here are a few shots from Friday and Saturday Rose City Cluster Shows at Portland Expo Center.