Occupaws Puppy Raiser Blog

Midnight Marathon (-22mi)

2012-03-19T02:59:00.001-05:00

We got 'the call' at 10 pm last night...
Every three months, the crew team has a dreaded midnight run up and down Lakeshore Path. The run is 4 miles long and must be completed in under 30 minutes or you get to do it again. I'm pretty sure I've never walked, let alone run more than a mile in my entire life but Kelsey figured I had a bit of 'spare' energy to burn and that I would really enjoy myself. She was right! I was grinning from ear to ear the entire time or maybe that was just because I was panting soooo hard.
It took me a little while to figure out how to run next to someone. Sometimes I was too slow, so I would speed up, overcompensate, and wind up running way too fast. Kelsey said it was like running between two bungee chords until I figured out how to match pace with her.
We finished our run in 27 minutes and 36 seconds - no repeat - Yeah! I was so exhausted by the third mile that I couldn't even keep my tongue straight in my mouth, so I just let it flop off the the side. Thankfully Kelsey can't run and take a picture because boy did I look silly.
After the race, the team hit the showers to cool off. I got to join them but I had to keep my eyes closed; it was the girls locker room after-all. ;)

P.S. - Apparently the jokes on me, because I just caught wind that we have to be up for 5 am practice this morning. I'm definitely sleeping through school tomorrow.

Stitch Puller - For Hire

2012-03-18T08:41:00.005-05:00

Keeping in the spirit of helping, I have skills that far exceed those of mortal chocolate drops!!! I, Amber, am qualified to

1. ~~Pull stitches from my girl parts incision~~ - Oh you mean I should wait 10 days to do that...now you tell me!! Oh, wait why are you putting in those big metal ouchie STAPLES. They're no fun.

2. ~~Wear an E-Collar full time~~ - Hee Hee, bet you didn't know just how easily I could crack that thing in half running at full tilt didja? Who'd a thunk it.

3. ~~Perform a blood draw for blood sugar testing~~ - Oh you didn't want to do any testing??? You coulda said so!!

4. Wear a soft, floppy e-collar for a week - I could do that :-)

NOTE to SELF - remember that little thread hanging out on the side - remember to pull it some night to see what happens...

Amber

Spring Cleaner - For Hire

2012-03-17T16:43:00.000-05:00

For those looking to hire someone to assist with your spring cleanup efforts, I have compiled a list of my pertinent skill sets:

1. ~~Mow your lawn: By Mouth~~ ..... Oh, I see, apparently there is a magical machine that can do this faster and more precisely and it also won't barf up your grass two hours later. Well fine, have it your way.
2. ~~Track, Chase, and Mulch your leaves~~ ..... So let me get this straight, chasing and shredding things is not a desirable guide dog skill. Well fine, but if that leaf happens to attack me I make no promises.
3. ~~Landscape Artist~~ ..... You really didn't want rocks in your grass, mulch in your garden and the twigs yanked off your shrubs. I was going for a creative modernist vibe but it's ok not everyone can understand it.
4. ~~Trash Disposal~~ ..... So getting my leash tangled around the trash can and pulling until it tips over doesn't count as taking the garbage out. Picky, picky.
5. Rake-holder-downer ..... You never know when the wind will pick up. I work for cheap but you supply the rake and the human operator.

I look forward to hearing from you. I'm always willing to assist a human in need!

Discussions

2012-03-09T00:34:00.000-06:00

On Thursday, I accompanied Kelsey to the Chula Vista Resort in the WI Dells for the annual WTEA (Wisconsin Technology Education Association) conference. Her students had a trade show booth at the event. Kelsey was really busy talking to people, so she made me stay behind the booth - by myself :( - alllllll morning. Occasionally I got tired of napping, so I poked my head out of the side curtain to check out the action and to give a passerby my cutest look. My efforts earned me a lot of chuckles from the attendees but also many stern words and dirty looks from Kelsey. So, I rebelled by getting yellow dog hair all over her black table cloth. HA HA!

After lunch, Kelsey finally let me sit in front of the booth as long as I promised to stay under the chair and be quiet. I was good until the SawStop demonstration started. The SawStop is this cool table saw that senses moisture, like that of a human finger hitting the blade, and drops the blade so quickly that you don't cut your finger off. Instead of using real human fingers for the demo, they used hotdogs. Needless to say, Kelsey and I had to have a discussion about resisting temptations. Boy, we sure do have a lot of talks!

Jala and the stairs

2012-03-08T17:21:00.002-06:00

I couldn't find a good picture of Jala, but she learned a new skill today. She finally figured out how to go up and down our basement steps. Then she spent the next 5 minutes or so just going up and down for the fun of it.

Falling Up

2012-03-05T21:26:00.000-06:00

If you're going to be naughty, you'd better look cute doing it!

I'm an opportunist, so today when Kelsey stepped out of her bedroom to answer the front door, I saw an opportunity to move up in life. I traded in my expensive, elevated dog bed for a more expensive, more elevated bed. Being a gentleman, I made sure to stay off of Kelsey's side of the bed and sleep with my head on the pillow instead of upside down. When Kelsey walked in on me, I misinterpreted her reaching out to correct me as her reaching over to rub my belly. Wanting to oblige, I rolled on my side and rolled a little too far...falling off the side of the bed. I landed with a loud thud that sent the rest of Kelsey's family members running to her room. Ouch! I learned a very important lesson today; the higher you move up in life, the further you have to fall: literally.
Oh, and I guess I also learned NO DOGS ON THE BED!

Friends in Progress

2012-03-01T22:48:00.000-06:00

Friends who Train together, Stay together.

"LEAVE IT" - I love the expression on Barron's face! He really wanted to LEAVE IT, but was terrified that Boggle was going to steal the food first.

"DOWN" - Took them long enough! How far do I have to go to get the treat...ok a little further...no a little further...?

But, Puppies with wiggly butts who snore like monster trucks, Sleep alone.

Circus Act

2012-02-28T00:03:00.000-06:00

In order to go to school today, Kelsey put me on the floor of the passenger seat of her car. Silly Human...she thought she could shut the door, walk around the car and get in the open driver's side door. I proved her wrong by jumping out the driver's door and running around the car to meet her halfway. Hello!
In an attempt to foil me, Kelsey walked over to shut the driver's door. Silly Human...I jumped past her and plopped down on the driver's seat. Ready to go! Apparently not, because Kelsey booted me out of the car, shut the driver's door and walked me back over to the passenger's side.
In an attempt to foil me again, Kelsey put me on the floor of the passenger seat and commanded me to STAY. Silly Human...I just jumped across the center counsel and stood on both the driver and passenger seats wagging my tail, while Kelsey attempted to walk around the car.
After a few deep breaths, Kelsey made a final attempt to foil me. This time she hooked my leash around the interior car door handle and tied it tight. Silly Human...I jumped to greet her on the driver's side but my efforts met an abrupt end and my butt met the passenger floor for the first time all morning. Darn it....Silly Doggy.

Proof I finally figured this car riding thing out.

Now that everyone was in their proper place, we headed off to school with Kelsey muttering under her breath that it was a good thing the circus had left town or they may have asked us clowns to join their act. GRIN! What can I say, I'm nothing if not pure entertainment.

Sleep AYOR

2012-02-26T01:20:00.000-06:00

Boggle (the fuzzy blue thing in the picture) spent a good portion of last night sitting in the empty puppy crate and crying. He has grown very accustomed to snuggling up at night next to whatever puppy in training is residing in my home and was especially fond of his most recent bunkmate, Apple (she let him sleep on top of her). I told him he only had to wait one more night and a new trainee would be moving in. I have always told Boggle that you, "Sleep At Your Own Risk." He's never heeded to my warning and just walks into the crate and curls up to every puppy as if they've been lifelong friends. Hopefully his next bunkmate, Barron, will be just as accepting of my crazy kitty! Fingers crossed...

Madison Delta Gamma

2012-02-22T20:28:00.003-06:00

Hi All,

Barry here...I like being a dog cuz girls luv us!!! My pals and I got to visit Delta Gamma in Madison just a couple days after we visited them in Appleton. And you know what, us pups make instant squeals from everyone who misses their dogs at home.

Scout was pretty popular too, until little Miss Iris came to visit, and lil ole Blondie got all the attention!!!

I just can't believe they went to her after seeing this handsome mug!!!

Woof for now,

Barry

2012-02-22T08:10:00.005-06:00

Kathy took Jala to Sharon Long's grooming kennel at Sun-Golden Kennels. Jala got to see her daddy, Lincoln the apricot boy in the middle right and her mommy, Violet, the blue/black girl in the bottom left. Jala was trimmed and bathed & very tired after as seen in the bottom right picture where she fell asleep in that position.

Anniversary

2012-02-21T00:16:00.000-06:00

One year ago today, I sent my first email to OccuPaws inquiring about becoming involved in the organization. In the year since then, I've had the wonderful opportunity of:

Welcoming 14 puppies in training into my home (I made the mistake of feeding some, so they've come back again & again & again...)
Attending dozens of events and fundraisers. My favorite to date is Puppies on Parmenter. This year I plan to actually walk around and visit all of the businesses and not get rained on!
Gaining a wonderful extended family of puppy raisers, puppy sitters, and volunteers.
Meeting hundreds if not thousands of people who probably never would have spoken to me otherwise if not to inquire about OccuPaws and the miracle on the end of the leash I was holding.

Thank you to OccuPaws for all of the incredible experiences I have gained over the past year. My house may be covered with dog hair that I'll never be able to remove and my left arm may be permanently longer than my right but the memories and opportunities I've gained will surely last me a lifetime. I look back on the past year with an incredible fondness and I look forward to the coming year with complete excitement.

Thank you OccuPaws!

Visit To Appleton

2012-02-20T07:23:00.007-06:00

Gordy, Barry, and Promise joined Mark, Barb and Marlette in a trip to Appleton, WI to speak to the Lawrence University Delta Gamma Chapter and some of the Alumni about OccuPaws and how the Delta Gamma Chapter in Madison has been so helpful.

Thank-you for inviting us!!!

Pans, Pans everywhere

2012-02-14T16:20:00.002-06:00

OK, where is the counter so that I can surf it? When I got home the other day I found muffin tins and pie pans all over the tops of the counter. So, when I put my paws on the counter, the pan fell off and startled me! Does this mean that I am supposed to stay off of counter tops? I think that mom is hoping that I will train myself to stay with all four feet on the floor. Hummmm, good luck mom!..... Scout

Date with a guide Dog

2012-02-13T18:50:00.001-06:00

Date with a Guide Dog on Channel 47

http://www.fox47.com/newsroom/top_stories/videos/vid_2658.shtml#.TzmlWQM5DPw.facebook">http://www.fox47.com/newsroom/top_stories/videos/vid_2658.shtml#.TzmlWQM5DPw.facebook

Domesticated-ish

2012-02-11T22:45:00.000-06:00

I was very domestic today as I assisted Kelsey in making Valentine's bandannas for all of the puppies who attend the Sprecher's Date with a Guide Dog fundraiser tomorrow. I served a dual assistance role as model and cutting board holder-downer; until I got my first lesson of the day...holding down stuff is officially a cat's job. I was booted off the cutting board by two angry felines before the first bandanna was completed! As it turns out, neither Kelsey nor I are very domestic and we had to call in Kelsey's mom for backup in order to complete the actual sewing and ironing of the bandannas. Come to Sprecher's tomorrow 11-5 to check out me and my fellow puppies-in-training sporting our new bandannas.

Capital K9

2012-02-09T21:04:00.000-06:00

Today Kelsey took me and her students to the state capital for a legislative day. We got to meet with many senators and representatives to talk with them about how important leadership and professionalism development is for high school students. I didn't talk much, but my wagging tail and goofy grin served as an excellent icebreaker.
We also took a tour of the capital, where I got to sit under the desk of one of the WI Supreme Court Justices. It was a perfect fit! I wonder if any of them are looking for a Guide Dog? I could be a very good decision-maker.
I was so excited to be at the capital that sometimes I forgot that all the floors were made of marble. Several times, my feet went slipping and sliding all over! The kids laughed at me but I don't mind being silly sometimes.

Pet Fair

2012-02-05T16:41:00.005-06:00

My friend Scout and I had a great time at the Pet Fair in Milwaukee yesterday! We met lots of people that were interested in OccuPaws. Enjoy the pictures of our booth. Barry

My new friend

2012-02-02T19:56:00.003-06:00

Hi there! I have a new friend, he is a cute little chocolate lab by the name of Scout. Mom and dad brought him home the other day. He is full of energy, and does not quite know how to "settle" the way Gordy and I do. But, he will learn. He is very smart and willing to learn. He also needs to learn that mom and dad are not very happy when a puppy puts his/her feet on counter tops.

I wonder what Gordy will think of him when he comes home to visit from "college"?

Barry

Linus and Jeannie Newscast

2012-01-22T21:39:00.002-06:00

Here is a nice story and newscast about recent graduates - Jeanne and Linus. Click here

You Got to be Kidding Me!

2012-01-19T13:30:00.002-06:00

They seriously don't expect me to wear these in public, do they????

Test Drive

2012-01-17T20:35:00.000-06:00

Today, I took a test drive in preparation for starting college.

First, I went to the University Bookstore to get my textbooks for the semester. It was very crowded, so I had to heel really close to keep from blocking the aisles. Once I managed to find all the books I needed, I had to WAIT in line forever to checkout. Every time I would lay down and get comfortable, the line would move and I would have to start, stop and WAIT again. Being an engineering student is hard work and it doesn't come cheap. My textbooks alone were over $800!

My next stop was Engineering Hall for an appointment with an adviser. The adviser thought that I was so handsome, she asked for information on my breeder. I did my part and WAITED quietly under Kelsey's chair the whole meeting. The end result.. I learned I only have one semester left before I graduate! I wonder if they make doggie caps and gowns?

Finally, I got to give a couple of prospective student orientation tours. I told the bright-eyed high school seniors all about the UW campus. I even bestowed upon them a few nuggets of wisdom, like they can burn the equivalent of 1 cheeto walking up Bascom Hill. I wonder how many dog treats that is?

Overall, it was an exhausting day filled with many new sights and sounds. By the time I returned home, I crashed. Just to let Kelsey know how appreciated she is for letting me accompany her today, I chose to use her leg as a head rest. Ahhh.

"Bernie Find ____"

2012-01-12T22:17:00.000-06:00

Bernie gets his first lesson on finding objects. Tonight we worked on Table, Chair and Door. As Bernie gains more experience we will eliminate any pointing, remove the post-it notes and work from further distances. But, for his first time Bernie showed a lot of enthusiasm and an innate ability to pick up new skills quickly!

I used my laptop's webcam to film this, so the sound is a little off but you get the idea.

New Puppy!!!

2012-01-12T16:42:00.002-06:00

Everyone join us in welcoming Jala, an 8 week old female poodle puppy to the OccuPaws Family. Pronounced Jay - La (means Special One in Swahili) was donated by Mike & Sharon Long of Sun-Golden Kennels in Edgerton and will be moving to her new family, the Moes this weekend. She is a half sister to Candy (a Children's Visual Companion Dog). Welcome Jala!!

Bingo tonight - January 12

2012-01-12T08:59:00.001-06:00

Because of the possibility of blowing and drifting snow, Bingo tonight has been cancelled. See you next month! Drive carefully!

Jeannie and Linus graduation

2012-01-09T08:36:00.002-06:00

Jeannie and Linus's graduation video has been posted. Click here and on the alumni page, scroll down to Jeannie and click on the picture of them to go to the video page.

Busy Buddies

2012-01-07T21:41:00.000-06:00

Nala says, "PLEEEASE stop chewing your bone, Ashland, and come play with me!"

Ashland says, "Stop staring at me, Nala. You may be giving me your cutest look, but I'm busy here."

OccuPaws in the News

2012-01-03T12:18:00.005-06:00

Hey everybody!

Check out this link to see an article about Andrew Tolmie, OccuPaws and Glen Stephens school! Way to go!

Sleepover

2012-01-02T23:55:00.000-06:00

After a day full of playing and a big Rose Bowl party, Abbey and I settled in for a good nights sleep. Even though Kelsey laid out two freshly washed dog beds, we chose to snuggle together in an open crate.

Abbey called me a blanket hog and eventually forced me to roll over and share.

Woman can be so demanding sometimes!

Gordy the Scotsman

2012-01-02T06:51:00.002-06:00

Hello all!

I wanted to show you my new Scottish Friends! Here I am hanging out with these great guys that played wonderful music for me with their bag pipes. Lukenbooth Cafe provided free food on New Years Eve and of course, I was there showing off how great I look. We celebrated at 6:00 pm which was midnight in Scotland so mom and dad did not have to stay up too late. Happy New Year.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T01:31:00.000-06:00

Being the classy guy that I am, I had to ring in the New Year in style. I got to watch the ball drop and see the lights and confetti in Times Square, all while wearing my own mirror balls and flashing lights.

Happy New Year to all my OccuPaws friends!

Love,

Meadow

Co-conspirators

2011-12-28T01:10:00.000-06:00

FINALLY figured out who Meadow's ice cube supplier is.

Now I'm left to ponder the age old question of who is smarter: the cat for figuring out how to work the ice dispenser or the dog for 'training' the cat to get him ice......

Since making this discovery, I have engaged the childproof lock on the dispenser. I give it less than 24 hours before the mysterious puddles begin to reappear on my floors.

Help Wanted

2011-12-22T15:53:00.000-06:00

This morning I asked for a little assistance with shoveling the driveway. Looking back, I probably shouldn't have chosen the applicant who was 'willing to work for kibble.' I guess it's true what they say, "You get what you pay for." Thankfully the sunshine intervened, so our less than stellar workmanship has been erased...until tomorrow.

Santa!

2011-12-18T08:59:00.005-06:00

Hi Everyone,

Yesterday, 12/17/11, Ace & some of his friends went to see Santa at the Dog Face in New Glarus. Ace liked this Santa much better than the Santa he saw at the mall. Maybe because this Santa had treats?

Here they are all relaxing, while other pups get to see Santa. Barron, Ace, Barry & Promise all waiting nicely while we shopped and watched the other puppies.

Here is Ace being a handsome boy. I think he was trying to convince Santa that he was a good boy and wants a really big steak for Christmas and if Santa can't bring a steak, a huge bone would be fine too.

Letter to Santa

2011-12-10T23:43:00.000-06:00

Dear Santa,

I have been a very good puppy this year and I have learned many new things. My biggest accomplishment has been learning to leave other dogs alone. Sometimes I would really rather play but I know Kelsey doesn't like this so I refrain because I really want to make her happy. Therefore, since I have been such a good girl, here are my Christmas wishes.

First, I would like lots and lots of people to come see me on Christmas. I would especially love visitors who crawl. They taste the best and they drop lots of food on the ground. (Not that I ever eat any of it.) I don't mind when they pull my tail or my ears or bop my head as long as they give really good belly rubs.

Second, I would like my very own clicker and pack of post-it notes. I love learning to target new things. Today I even learned to "Find the car." At first Kelsey lost the car in her own driveway. Silly humans! Then we worked up to a whole parking lot. I took a 'creative' route but I eventually found the car. If I had more post-it notes, I could learn to find everything Kelsey loses. Boy is she forgetful!

I can't wait to meet you on Christmas Eve. I will be the one in the crate wagging my tail really hard. I promise not to bark at the reindeer but I can't say the same for my older brother, he likes to say 'Hello'. Also, I promise I won't eat any of your cookies or drink any of your milk.

Love,
Brewer
P.S. Please don't make me dress up again for pictures with you next weekend. (The Dog Face: 10-1 pm)

Spooked

2011-12-10T15:05:00.003-06:00

Last night I took Apple to a basketball game and a dance concert. She's been to several sporting events before (football, hockey, and basketball), and so the bouncing ball, lots of movement and loud noises were not a problem. She watched the game for a few minutes and then settled in for a nap. Content that the home team (go Beloit!) was well on the way to victory, we left the game at half time to cheer on dancers in their winter concert.

Of the two events, the dance recital was the one I was least worried about going in. Much to my surprise, shortly after the start of the first dance, Apple spooked. She sat up, heart racing, hackles up, and even let out a startled bark. I was thankful that a) I had a good handle on her leash, and b) the audience only paused for a short giggle before redirecting their attention back to the dancers. It took a few minutes, but Apple again settled down, and watched with intense focus, the remaining dances.

A day later, I'm still not sure what spooked my usually calm, collected pup. I think she was simply caught off-guard. Just another reminder of how important this socialization period is for our puppies as they continue to learn to expect and deal with the unexpected.

Off to College

2011-12-05T05:01:00.002-06:00

Well, I knew this was going to happen sometime! I am off to college. Today, I start learning how to be a "big boy" Guide Dog. Wish me luck! Here is a picture of me before I got "big".

Love, Gordy

BIG City, BIG Job

2011-12-02T16:26:00.001-06:00

On Thursday, I had a BIG day with two very important jobs:

1. Navigate Kelsey through downtown Madison to all of her classes.

2. Show two potential puppy raisers what fun it would be to have a puppy like me in their lives.

'Working' in the library

To accomplish my first task, I had to ride in a city bus for the first time. For some reason a voice kept talking really loud at me. I looked really hard to find where the voice was coming from but...no such luck. I also had to walk really fast on busy streets to get between classes. I wasn't a big fan of all the horns, sirens and loud engines, so I got lots of treats (Peanut butter & banana YUM!) for continuing to move forward and walk nicely. Also, I can't figure out why everyone kept calling me Brewer/Badger's brother: Don't they know I'm "Barry!"

To accomplish my second task, I got to go out to lunch with one of Kelsey's professors. He and his wife were very nice. They asked a lot of good questions about being a puppy raiser. For my part, I worked very hard to look cute and show off what a good boy I am. They said they were partial to yellow dogs as their last dog was a yellow lab. Humph...way to mess with a guy's mojo.

All in all, it was a long days' work but judging by the number of hugs, pets and pictures I took today, I would say "Job well done, Barry."

Busted taking a little nap

2011-12-01T13:45:00.003-06:00

We are so appreciative of the photographer snapping this shot..... This is a great example of what weekend naps are all about!!! As you will note Angus and I had a very long day cleaning the yard and putting up Christmas decorations. We tried to sneak a quick snooze but were obviously busted...

Ho Ho Ho

2011-11-28T17:14:00.003-06:00

Hi All,

Promise here. I got an early start to my annual Christmas begging!! I'm starting my practicing with my ole pal, Santa so that I've really got that "look" down for treats and such.

Practice will continue at the volunteer party on the 3rd. Wings-Wings-Wings! :-)

Promise

Fitness First

2011-11-26T20:17:00.000-06:00

Recipe for a Happy Badger:

1 Treadmill

1 Leash

1 Handfull of treats

1 Badger (may substitute another OccuPaws puppy)

Mix ingredients together at 2.8 mph and let walk for 1 hour.

Warning: Puppy will pout and refuse to leave the treadmill if not allowed to walk a minimum of 30 minutes.

Ignore the sound. We were watching an episode of House while walking.

Decisions, Decisions

2011-11-22T09:32:00.000-06:00

Badger is trying to decide whether to install a swimming pool or a dog food factory in his new crate....

Decisions, Decisions

Water or Food, Water or Food, Water or Food.... the ultimate Labrador dilemma.

I, on the other hand, will probably need to add an addition onto my bedroom.

Boost

2011-11-17T16:10:00.000-06:00

Getting amped up for puppy class tonight. Nothing like a little caffeine and tunes to get a guy going.

*No actual beverages were consumed*

New collection jar

2011-11-13T05:37:00.003-06:00

Thanks to the Eagle's Auxiliary #623 - OccuPaws has two new collection doggies. Unfortunately, they do not have names yet! They were presented at our last Bingo night. They look very hungry!

Gordy and Barry at Middletons chamber meeting

2011-11-09T19:59:00.002-06:00

Hi there!

Look at us at the Middleton Chamber Meeting!

Barry and Gordy

Three's Company

2011-11-06T21:08:00.000-06:00

After reading Ace's sad story of being the lone coupon salesman in Janesville last weekend, I packed up my vest and puppy food and headed down to Janesville this Saturday for the OccuPaws' booth at Shopping & More in Whitewater and the Boston Store coupon sales in Janesville.

At Shopping & More, Bernie, Ace, and I formed quite a comedic trio. We quickly became the 'babysitting' station as we were seasoned veterans at attracting children. Ace got tons of belly rubs and kept making all the kids laugh. Saddened by the lack of attention, I curled up and pouted behind the table. This must have been an effective tactic because I quickly gained a small following. Later in the afternoon, I took a break from looking cute and practiced some obedience skills. I worked on commands from a distance as well as a few 'tricks' like retrieving my leash, picking up keys and finding doors. Ace and his mom also showed me how to find tables, chairs and shopping carts. So many new things to learn!

After spending the morning at Shopping & More, I hopped in the car and headed over to the Janesville Mall to sell Boston Store coupon booklets. Ace and I were joined by Apple to form another trio. We worked our tails off to sell the 11 remaining booklets. I got thirsty midway through but Kelsey was negligent and forgot to pack my cool pink pop-up water dish. Thankfully Ace has a creative and resourceful mom who fashioned a water dish out of a small Boston Store bag. Many people smiled when they passed by and saw me drinking out of it. I was just grateful it didn't spring a leak.

Exhausted after putting in a ten hour day, I took the car ride home as an opportunity to recharge my batteries. As I slept, I dreamt about my three kids waiting for me back home and all of the exciting games we would play tonight. A puppy's work is never done!

Slick at Halloween

2011-11-03T20:49:00.004-05:00

Slick's family sent these two pictures of their family at Halloween. I thought I would share them with everybody! Little did we know when training him that he was such a good costume model!

Janesville Boston Store

2011-10-31T08:40:00.007-05:00

Hello, Ace & I were at the Janesville Boston Store on both Saturday and Sunday. He didn't get as many belly rubs as the Madison group as we were the only ones there. We did, however come closer to our goal of selling 60 booklets. We only have 11 more to go to meet that goal!! Doesn't he look sad being the only puppy there.

Power of Puppy Persuasion

2011-10-30T19:23:00.001-05:00

This afternoon, Barry, Gordy, and I sold Boston Store Coupon booklets at East Towne Mall. Barry and Gordy donned Batman and Superman costumes in celebration of Halloween. I thought they looked a little silly and Barry agreed. He pouted until a nice Delta Gamma girl took pity on him and removed the costume.

Gordy and I adopted a persuasion tactic of nonchalance in order to lure the public in. Our strategy earned us a lot of belly rubs. Gordy and I also showed off some of our service skills. I retrieved my leash and Gordy picked up his Dad's keys; much to the delight of several children. We also took turns taste-testing the toddlers and babies who visited us.

Exhausted from all of the attention, I took a nap midway through the afternoon. It was a valiant attempt to lull Kelsey into a false sense of security. Even though I was 'sleeping,' I still had one eye open and was ready to race through the mall and play at a moments notice... I'm still waiting for that moment.

Overall, our puppy persuasion led to the sale of 40 booklets! Please stop by and see us this Saturday 10 am-12 pm. We'll happily sell you a booklet and give you a big puppy kiss.

Running into Fall

2011-10-29T18:13:00.004-05:00

Hi everyone! I'm Apple... It's been a while since I've written anything for the puppy blog - mom says we've been too busy. And, boy, have we ever!

Like Gypsy, I'm still going to college every day with mom, though I never see Gypsy there. I guess there must be more than one college in Wisconsin. Gypsy definitely has some good advice (and don't worry Gypsy, I get caught snoring sometimes, too!).

Aside from school, Mom's been really busy with running. She's fast (I think), but I'm faster! I wonder if she's ever going to take me on a run? Today, she went to cheer on lots of runners in the Haunted Hustle. Gordy, Barry, Biscuit and Divit were all there, but I didn't get to go. Boo hoo! It looks like they had so much fun!

I was lead cheer dog last weekend though - at a race in Door County. It was tiring work, let me tell you! I was so tired, I didn't even notice when Mom took this stupid picture of me sleeping in the car on the way home. I hope this doesn't show up in a graduation video - so embarrassing!!!

Well, that's all from me for now. Mom says it's time to go, but promises we'll write again soon.

Wags and kisses,

Apple

NBC 15 Morning Show Segment

2011-10-26T19:05:00.002-05:00

Click the Title above to see the TV segment from Sunday Morning

Girls Night Out

2011-10-25T15:34:00.000-05:00

Gypsy (4 mon.) @ Painting for Paws

After a busy week at school, I decided I needed a girls night out. So Sunday night my buddies Brewer, Kelsey and I headed to Painting for Paws at Lukenbooth Cafe. When we arrived, we found out that Channel 15 news had left just a few minutes earlier. I was really disappointed because I had gone to the doggie spa that morning where I got a bath and blow dry and had my nails, ears, and teeth done. I was camera ready but Gordy and Barry stole the spotlight again. However, a very nice woman came, took my picture, and gave me a belly rub; my beauty efforts were not in vain.

Brewer (9 mon.) @ Painting for Paws

Brewer and I were very excited when our friends Ace, Ajax, Angus and Promise arrived. Promise sat next to us for girl’s night, while the 'boys' retired to the other side of the room. Overall, we had a lot of fun at the auction. I kept trying to jump up to bid on all the really cool dog bowls, but Kelsey made me lay back down. No fair! Ace, Ajax and Angus all got to take home new dog bowls. I cannot wait to see all my friends again at the next OccuPaws event.

TV Personalities

2011-10-20T12:21:00.004-05:00

Hi everyone! My friends Divit, Barry and I are getting ready for our big TV debut on this Sunday (October 23) on channel 15...really early in the morning!

I thought you would like to see all of us with Amy Carlson, Marlette and Dave. Here we are having the show taped. We sure look handsome! (Marlette looks beautiful.)

We are going to talk about Painting for Paws and OccuPaws!

Gordy

College Success

2011-10-20T08:51:00.001-05:00

Being a college student at four months old isn’t easy. Most humans take 18 years to get there; but humans have nothing on a smart pup like me. Therefore, I thought I would bestow upon them and my fellow trainees a few tips I learned about how to be successful in college.

Gypsy's Top 5 Tips to College Success

Taking a potty/play break on Bascom Hill

5. Drink lots (of water) - Staying hydrated is important. It keeps your brain active and helps you to stay focused. Downside: You have to take lots and lots of potty breaks. Upside: The cute boys who play Frisbee on the lawns give the best belly rubs.

4. Get Plenty of Rest - Between looking cute and getting belly rubs and accepting compliments and getting kisses and getting hugs and did I mention looking cute, the life of a college pup is exhausting. That's why it is so important to take a nap anywhere you can. My suggestion: Power Lectures are the optimum location for Power Naps. Caution!! If you snore too loud, which I may have done, the whole class will laugh at you. Oddly, the professors don't mind the snoring, but if you yawn in the middle of lecture they tend to take it personally.

Napping in Fluid Dynamic lecture

3. Study!!!! - My preferred method of study is osmosis. It combines two important activities: studying and sleeping. Word to the wise: Just because they call it a soft-cover book doesn't mean it's actually soft and will make a good pillow. Maybe I should try this reading thing. On second thought, who needs to study? My cuteness alone has to be worth at least a B+ maybe even an A-.

Driving to school

2. Exercise – Walking between classes and through buildings can be exhausting, especially since there are so many stairs. I love to run and hop up and down the stairs, but Kelsey is no fun. She keeps telling me to slooooow doooooown, but being slow is for old puppies and humans. Maybe she should take my advice and exercise more so that she too could jump down the last four stairs. She said her arm is ready to fall off, so sometimes we cheat and take the elevator. I like the elevator too, because who can resist telling me how cute I am when we’re trapped together in a confined space?

Outside, off-vest/harness, meeting my new friend

1. Have Fun! - College may only be 4 days of my life, but I plan to embrace it. Make as many new friends as you possibly can. On my first day, I even met a working guide dog named Gabby (GDB). I barked once and distracted her a bit, but her partner was nice and wanted to know all about me. Someday I want an important job and a partner just like Gabby has.

Waiting for Godot

2011-10-17T13:51:00.002-05:00

Hi All!

We were the stars of a recent Cottage Grove Lioness meeting with lots of awwws and petting and such.

We became persona non grata when it was time to eat! :-( We watched while they ate. What a time to be so very very neat - not a crumb!

Even a head tilt got no reward at all.....sigh....

B & G

Happy Birthday Ace!

2011-10-15T20:20:00.004-05:00

Here is the birthday boy patiently waiting for his birthday cookie. We were on vacation in Door County, staying in a cabin in Baileys Harbor.

Here he is enjoying his cookie. How we managed to get the picture was sure luck as the cookie quickly disappeared after that shot!

He enjoyed every crumb!

Happy Birthday to all the "A" puppies

Boston Store Community Days

2011-10-12T05:04:00.004-05:00

Hi there!

I thought all of you would love to see a picture of me (the handsome yellow one looking so regal) and my friend Biscuit. We were great salesdogs at the Boston Store Community Day event on October 8th at East Towne. Mom says that we will be at East Towne again soon. I sure hope so because I sure have a lot of fun being pet by everybody.

Your friend,

Gordy

Fastest Puppy

2011-10-02T18:40:00.003-05:00

On Sept. 25th, we were invited to the Delta Gamma fun run/walk. We braved the iffy weather and watched as all the people came in to register and participate. There were quite a few people despite the wet/cool day.

I handed Ace off to one of the runners as I don't run unless it is an emergency. So here is Ace waiting patiently for the run to start.

The dogs were more than ready to run and a bit over excited to start.

Ace and his running partner were the first dog/human team to return, even with a potty break. Ace had a great time and I think he was ready for more.

Barry Says "HI"

2011-10-02T03:37:00.002-05:00

OK, Bristol had a chance to say "HI" now it is my turn. I'm Barry, Bristol's brother. I am so much bigger and faster than she is. My mom says that I am supposed to take care of Bristol and not play too hard with her because she is still recovering from being sick. Boy, somebody ought to tell her that. She is starting to feel pretty good. She can run really fast, but I am still stronger. So, because mom wants me to be gentle with her, I play with my other foster brother, Gordy. We play "settle" , "stay" and "leave it" in the house. Outside, we get to play RUN and tumble! Mom and dad take Gordy and me everywhere! (Bristol can't go with us yet as she needs to take it easy.) We get to play when we are out and about too - "settle", "stay" and "leave it". We get to say "Hi" to other humans too. The "leave it" game is really hard when my human cousins (who are 2-4 years old) drop things on the floor. Well, I just thought I would introduce myself - Barry

Bristol

2011-09-29T19:04:00.002-05:00

Bristol’s Update!

Everybody has been asking about Bristol’s progress. It is probably best for her to tell you all about how she is doing.

--------------------------------

“Hi everybody!

First of all, thanks to everybody for all of their good wishes. With lots of TLC and anti-biotics I am getting better. My neck is still a little stiff – which makes it REALLY hard to keep track of my brother, Barry when he wants to play with me. My temporary mom and dad, Barb and Mark, won’t let me play as much as I want. They say I still need to take it easy. Give me a break- I am a young lab – let me RUN. All the doctors are still trying to figure out why I got sick twice/three times. I am waiting for some more blood tests to come back – maybe that will tell them why.(I am still on anti-biotics) In the meantime, Barb and Mark are not falling for the “I am sick let me do what I want” routine. They make me wait in the crate before I eat, wait to go outside, wait to come inside, wait, wait, wait. They are also working on something called “settle”. I am supposed to just lay down without wiggling. Boy is that hard! Please keep up the good wishes.

Bristol