28Aug09
Kristen sent new photos of Crash. They are viewable on his page, through the link on the Litters page.
Tomorrow Birch and I are helping at Companion Dog Training Club of Flint's 1st Annual Responsible Dog Owners Day. Should be fun!
Sharon reports that Lily weighs 31 pounds. I'm wondering how much the boys weigh.
We finished week two of Apple's first heat. One week to go.... Plum is due to come in about the time Apple is finished.
27Aug09
The wedding of Evan Jack Miles and Laurel Alyssa First was lovely. Everyone seemed to have a grand tim but I'll post one or two soon. The new Mr. and Mrs. Miles are on their way home from the cabin today.
Vicki Stoddard and Ffyn came up on Monday. We stopped at Sandy Holmes' to see her Filson/Winnie puppies (lovely litter!) and went to Chinese Tonight for lunch. Yum :) Tuesday was Ffyn's day to go in the pond. I brought his mom, Plum, out to show him how it's done. He picked it up right away. We let them swim until he looked tired. A few hours later, we took Cedar out with him and threw the bumpers for them. Ffyn and Cedar had a great time. We got a few photos and I'll put them on Ffyn's page so you can see them. We had hoped to do some bird/field training with Ffyn and Apple at Paul Morrison's yesterday, but a thunderstorm was due to come through his area about the time of our appointment, so we didn't get to do that.
17Aug09
Fred emailed that Clover had her stitches out after being spayed and that she weighs 36.2 pounds. Apple weighs 39 pounds and Plum weighs 36#. I'm guessing that Lily weighs 32 or 33 pounds. The puppies are now 9 months old. Amazing how fast they grow up.
15Aug09
One week until son Evan's wedding. We are excited about helping to make their day as special as we can.
Apple & Birch went with me to rally/obedience class on Thursday. Apple improves every class and Birch and I were commended on how well we executed the spiral - ' the best we've ever done'. However, both dogs were not good about waiting their turns in the crate. Apple whined and Birch whined and dug at the corner. Not pleasant to listen to. No one else's dogs had an issue waiting their turns. I'm not sure how to fix this, but better get out the training books and start asking other trainers.
Apple started her first heat yesterday. Keeping the 'fancy pants' on is going to be a challenge. I'm keeping treats in my pockets and rewarding her when she stops biting at them when I ask her to. I was just telling Jack a couple days ago how nicely Apple is growing up, looking more mature, loosing her puppy looks. I am pleased with her.
We are having hot humid weather this week. My least favorite Michigan weather. We've not had much of it up to now; of this I am grateful. The dogs and I go out mostly in the afternoon and evenings. Yesterday they had fun in the pond. Apple is finally getting her swimming form - her rear is higher with less splashing in front. She loves to swim.
10Aug09
Today John, daughter Lianna, and puppy Lily stopped by on their way home from a trip to visit relatives in Gaylord, Michigan. It was wonderful to see them. Lily was sweet, happy, and seemed to really enjoy seeing her mom and sister. She is growing up to be a lovely Welshie. I put a few photos on Lily's page. Thank you so much for stopping here John and Lianna!
08Aug09
Birch is a Working Dog!!! Got home this morning at 10:00am from a short trip to Wisconsin. Birch & I left Thursday afternoon for Ludington, Michigan and spent the night at a lovely Holiday Inn with acres of mowed lawn around it that was perfect for dog walking. We left there at 6:00am Friday morning to catch the car/people ferry to Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Andrea Pease met us at the dock when we arrived and drove us along with her Molly and Ruby to the Working Dog tests being held in Hilbert. The forecast was for morning rain followed by afternoon thundershowers. We were fortunate that there were no morning showers, and the afternoon rain never turned into a thunderstorm. The rain did keep the birds from flushing. The birds were young hen pheasants and they either hunkered down or ran, especially as the cover became drenched. The good news is that Birch and Molly passed the WD test!! Birch is an official Working Dog :) Ruby did a wonderful job listening to what Andrea wanted from her and with limited training she did a commendable job. Andrea is a good trainer and has taught her dogs well. Birch brought two live, unshot, birds back to hand in the field. At the pond, though he stopped to drop the bird and shake off the water, he did pick it back up and bring it to me on the pond bank. I have a lot to learn, trainer-wise, but I enjoyed working with my very happy dog. The ribbons weren't yet at the test location, but we did get a photo with the judges which I'll post on Birch's gallery page, and photos of Andrea with Ruby on the Friends and Their Dogs link on the Gallery page. I will be eagerly watching the mail for Birch's ribbon and WSSCA WD certificate.
Andrea took me to her home after the test to dry off, put our wet jackets, vests, etc, in the dryer, and she and Tim made a lovely dinner. It tasted so good! All that fresh air and walking through fields worked up an appetite. Tender steak, rich wild rice with fresh mushrooms, the best green beans from their garden, and dessert was homemade Angel Food cake with fresh fruit and whipped cream. YUMMM.
Thanks to Andrea and Tim, the Judges, The Fox River Valley ECS club for putting on the test, to Paul for training Birch, and to Jack for making it possible.
On Thursday morning as I was getting ready to leave for Ludington, Lily's owners called to say they were coming to Michigan the next day to visit relatives and wondered if I would mind watching Lily for them. I was so disappointed to have to tell them I wouldn't be here. They thought they might be able to stop here on their way home on Sunday or Monday, so I'm crossing my fingers that it will fit into their plans. I'd love to see them again and you know I'm looking forward to seeing how Lily has grown up ;)
02Aug09
Lily's family had a cabin vacation and brought her along. She learned to swim and the photos Sharon sent show what a good time she had on her vacation.
I heard from Clover's family today. She is slowly recovering from Tularemia, and her vet felt she was well enough to be spayed on Wednesday. She was the last puppy to be neutered, and I am pleased that none Plum's 'pet' puppies will accidently become parents.
01Aug09
It's AUGUST! We've had 2 lovely days in a row. Today it got to the mid-70's, the humidity was low and there was a lovely breeze. Birch and I went down to Paul's today to practice with phesants and for me to get some more instruction. Paul is a very good teacher and both Birch and I learned today. It helped my confidence level to have todays' lesson.
The dogs and I had a great time outside after Birch and I got home.
I got a few photos today, one each of Cedar, Plum & Birch, and a few of Monster Puppy and have added them to the site.
26Jul09
Happy news - we brought our Birch Bark home from Paul's today. He is sitting at my feet as I write this. Paul Morrison did such a wonderful job with Birch. We were SO impressed. After Paul worked him in the fields, and then gave Birch a rest, we went back out and I worked him. I have so much to learn!!
Trying to upload Apple's new photos to the site, but am having difficulty. Hopefully they'll be there soon.
25Jul09
Goodness, time does fly!
Candy sent photos of Bailey that I will get on the site today. He had his first 'haircut' :)
I spoke with Gail & Bill Fishner last week to see how Gail was doing after her hip surgery and to see how Maggie Mae was doing. Great to hear that both are doing well. Gail sounded strong. They were hoping the rain would stop so they could take Maggie down to the lake to throw the bumper for her. Maggie was 5 last Saturday.
Last week was supposed to be our vacation, but with all the rain we've had Jack wanted to stay home and catch up on yard work. So, Apple and I went up north for 5 days. Took a few photos that I'll put on the site today.
Apple and I are still going to Diane's Thursday morning training classes. Apple is the youngest and least experienced, but she is doing better each time. She had a hard time on the long down this week - 3 minutes was an eternity for her. We'll have to work on that at home more often. Daily at home, she and the others wait in a 'down stay' in their crates with the doors open when I go to the kitchen to fill their food dishes, and she's solid at that, but at class with other dogs lying near her is a different story!
Vicki called a few days ago to say that Ffyn has been very clingy lately, though he's still outgoing at the dog park each morning. Apple has been the same. I was worried that she had turned shy until I talked to Vicki and then I realized that both she and Ffyn are going through a phase. And, two days later, that phase seems to be over for Apple. For about a week, I couldn't get her to go out and play; she would just sit on the porch and scratch at the door to come in and be with me. Didn't want me out of her sight. Yesterday, she was back to her old self running around the yard, finding her ball, chasing her mom, completely forgetting about me. Yay!
I have been busy checking off my list of things to do before Evan's upcoming wedding. Got my dress, shoes, made my necklace this week, got the bridesmaids gifts done, got the rehearsal dinner set and the invitations out. Not much left to do. Looking forward to the wedding.
A few weeks ago, Carlene let me know that Clover had contracted Tularemia (Rabit Fever) and was on antibiotics. She was getting her appetite back and seemed on the mend. Carlene emailed this week that Clover is still lethargic and not eating well. I am concerned and hoping to hear that all is well.
Eva Szabo and Donna Weber are expecting their first litter today. I wish them good luck and hope that Lucy's labor and delivery goes smoothly and that all puppies are healthy and strong.
06Jul09
We got through the holiday with only Cedar being bothered with the fireworks. During the afternoon/evening, after hearing a boom I could distract him with "Wow! Did you see that BIRD?!!", but after bedtime he couldn't settle down and had to sleep with us until sometime in the wee hours when I put him back in his bed. Apple had no problems with the fireworks. Before the parade, I walked her through the village that was 3 rows deep with people up and down the main street - North Branch pulls a crowd for its parade. I took her home before the parade started - figured she'd had enough. We had family and friends here Saturday afternoon and the dogs were so well behaved. Both Jack & I were proud of them.
Birch is improving his skills at Paul Morrison's. Doing even better now that Paul's AWS (American Water Spaniel) girls are no longer in heat.
Sharon sent photos of Lily today. I'll get them on the website tomorrow.
Vicki reports that Ffyn had no trouble with the fireworks, even with their neighbor putting on a 45 minute fireworks display.
02Jul09
I sent out an email to the families of Plum's puppies to remind them about the upcoming fireworks and how they should respond to their dogs in a possible fearful situation. Both Vicki and Sharon emailed back to say that neither Ffyn nor Lily are fearful. Vicki reports that around their house, he's known as Fearless Ffyn, 'he's all nosey and confidence' and so far has not been afraid of anything. Sharon reports that she was concerned about Lily's reaction to fireworks prior to their Victoria Day and says, 'I needn't have worried. Lily hasn't a timid bone in her body! There were a few fireworks again last night for Canada Day, but again Lily was fine.' Good to hear. Apple isn't afraid of thunder storms, and we've had our share of those lately, so I'm hoping the fireworks won't bother her either. Also hoping to hear the same of Clover, Bailey, and Crash.
27Jun09
Today Apple and I went to Hunters Creek Club for a 'Meet The Sporting Breeds' event. It was for people who want to be judges and who need to learn about the breeds. Most of the Sporting Group was represented, except for Welshies. Well, Apple represented, but she couldn't participate because the committee didn't plan on any Welsh attending. Seems they contacted the Upland WSS Club and the 'Club' declined to participate. Hmmm! Apple and I had a good time anyway, and got to meet interesting people and dogs and even ran into a few friends: Nancy Chapman, UPLAND member who was there with the Golden group; Diane Loudon and Val from CDTC; and Vivian from CDS.
On Thursday I went down to Sandy's to see the puppies that Winnie & Filson had in the early hours. So little and sweet. Good, strong eaters, and Winnie was being such a good mother and didn't mind having company at all.
16 Jun09
Kristen sent new photos of Crash. They are viewable on his page, through the link on the Litters page.
Tomorrow Birch and I are helping at Companion Dog Training Club of Flint's 1st Annual Responsible Dog Owners Day. Should be fun!
Sharon reports that Lily weighs 31 pounds. I'm wondering how much the boys weigh.
We finished week two of Apple's first heat. One week to go.... Plum is due to come in about the time Apple is finished.
27Aug09
The wedding of Evan Jack Miles and Laurel Alyssa First was lovely. Everyone seemed to have a grand tim but I'll post one or two soon. The new Mr. and Mrs. Miles are on their way home from the cabin today.
Vicki Stoddard and Ffyn came up on Monday. We stopped at Sandy Holmes' to see her Filson/Winnie puppies (lovely litter!) and went to Chinese Tonight for lunch. Yum :) Tuesday was Ffyn's day to go in the pond. I brought his mom, Plum, out to show him how it's done. He picked it up right away. We let them swim until he looked tired. A few hours later, we took Cedar out with him and threw the bumpers for them. Ffyn and Cedar had a great time. We got a few photos and I'll put them on Ffyn's page so you can see them. We had hoped to do some bird/field training with Ffyn and Apple at Paul Morrison's yesterday, but a thunderstorm was due to come through his area about the time of our appointment, so we didn't get to do that.
17Aug09
Fred emailed that Clover had her stitches out after being spayed and that she weighs 36.2 pounds. Apple weighs 39 pounds and Plum weighs 36#. I'm guessing that Lily weighs 32 or 33 pounds. The puppies are now 9 months old. Amazing how fast they grow up.
15Aug09
One week until son Evan's wedding. We are excited about helping to make their day as special as we can.
Apple & Birch went with me to rally/obedience class on Thursday. Apple improves every class and Birch and I were commended on how well we executed the spiral - ' the best we've ever done'. However, both dogs were not good about waiting their turns in the crate. Apple whined and Birch whined and dug at the corner. Not pleasant to listen to. No one else's dogs had an issue waiting their turns. I'm not sure how to fix this, but better get out the training books and start asking other trainers.
Apple started her first heat yesterday. Keeping the 'fancy pants' on is going to be a challenge. I'm keeping treats in my pockets and rewarding her when she stops biting at them when I ask her to. I was just telling Jack a couple days ago how nicely Apple is growing up, looking more mature, loosing her puppy looks. I am pleased with her.
We are having hot humid weather this week. My least favorite Michigan weather. We've not had much of it up to now; of this I am grateful. The dogs and I go out mostly in the afternoon and evenings. Yesterday they had fun in the pond. Apple is finally getting her swimming form - her rear is higher with less splashing in front. She loves to swim.
10Aug09
Today John, daughter Lianna, and puppy Lily stopped by on their way home from a trip to visit relatives in Gaylord, Michigan. It was wonderful to see them. Lily was sweet, happy, and seemed to really enjoy seeing her mom and sister. She is growing up to be a lovely Welshie. I put a few photos on Lily's page. Thank you so much for stopping here John and Lianna!
08Aug09
Birch is a Working Dog!!! Got home this morning at 10:00am from a short trip to Wisconsin. Birch & I left Thursday afternoon for Ludington, Michigan and spent the night at a lovely Holiday Inn with acres of mowed lawn around it that was perfect for dog walking. We left there at 6:00am Friday morning to catch the car/people ferry to Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Andrea Pease met us at the dock when we arrived and drove us along with her Molly and Ruby to the Working Dog tests being held in Hilbert. The forecast was for morning rain followed by afternoon thundershowers. We were fortunate that there were no morning showers, and the afternoon rain never turned into a thunderstorm. The rain did keep the birds from flushing. The birds were young hen pheasants and they either hunkered down or ran, especially as the cover became drenched. The good news is that Birch and Molly passed the WD test!! Birch is an official Working Dog :) Ruby did a wonderful job listening to what Andrea wanted from her and with limited training she did a commendable job. Andrea is a good trainer and has taught her dogs well. Birch brought two live, unshot, birds back to hand in the field. At the pond, though he stopped to drop the bird and shake off the water, he did pick it back up and bring it to me on the pond bank. I have a lot to learn, trainer-wise, but I enjoyed working with my very happy dog. The ribbons weren't yet at the test location, but we did get a photo with the judges which I'll post on Birch's gallery page, and photos of Andrea with Ruby on the Friends and Their Dogs link on the Gallery page. I will be eagerly watching the mail for Birch's ribbon and WSSCA WD certificate.
Andrea took me to her home after the test to dry off, put our wet jackets, vests, etc, in the dryer, and she and Tim made a lovely dinner. It tasted so good! All that fresh air and walking through fields worked up an appetite. Tender steak, rich wild rice with fresh mushrooms, the best green beans from their garden, and dessert was homemade Angel Food cake with fresh fruit and whipped cream. YUMMM.
Thanks to Andrea and Tim, the Judges, The Fox River Valley ECS club for putting on the test, to Paul for training Birch, and to Jack for making it possible.
On Thursday morning as I was getting ready to leave for Ludington, Lily's owners called to say they were coming to Michigan the next day to visit relatives and wondered if I would mind watching Lily for them. I was so disappointed to have to tell them I wouldn't be here. They thought they might be able to stop here on their way home on Sunday or Monday, so I'm crossing my fingers that it will fit into their plans. I'd love to see them again and you know I'm looking forward to seeing how Lily has grown up ;)
02Aug09
Lily's family had a cabin vacation and brought her along. She learned to swim and the photos Sharon sent show what a good time she had on her vacation.
I heard from Clover's family today. She is slowly recovering from Tularemia, and her vet felt she was well enough to be spayed on Wednesday. She was the last puppy to be neutered, and I am pleased that none Plum's 'pet' puppies will accidently become parents.
01Aug09
It's AUGUST! We've had 2 lovely days in a row. Today it got to the mid-70's, the humidity was low and there was a lovely breeze. Birch and I went down to Paul's today to practice with phesants and for me to get some more instruction. Paul is a very good teacher and both Birch and I learned today. It helped my confidence level to have todays' lesson.
The dogs and I had a great time outside after Birch and I got home.
I got a few photos today, one each of Cedar, Plum & Birch, and a few of Monster Puppy and have added them to the site.
26Jul09
Happy news - we brought our Birch Bark home from Paul's today. He is sitting at my feet as I write this. Paul Morrison did such a wonderful job with Birch. We were SO impressed. After Paul worked him in the fields, and then gave Birch a rest, we went back out and I worked him. I have so much to learn!!
Trying to upload Apple's new photos to the site, but am having difficulty. Hopefully they'll be there soon.
25Jul09
Goodness, time does fly!
Candy sent photos of Bailey that I will get on the site today. He had his first 'haircut' :)
I spoke with Gail & Bill Fishner last week to see how Gail was doing after her hip surgery and to see how Maggie Mae was doing. Great to hear that both are doing well. Gail sounded strong. They were hoping the rain would stop so they could take Maggie down to the lake to throw the bumper for her. Maggie was 5 last Saturday.
Last week was supposed to be our vacation, but with all the rain we've had Jack wanted to stay home and catch up on yard work. So, Apple and I went up north for 5 days. Took a few photos that I'll put on the site today.
Apple and I are still going to Diane's Thursday morning training classes. Apple is the youngest and least experienced, but she is doing better each time. She had a hard time on the long down this week - 3 minutes was an eternity for her. We'll have to work on that at home more often. Daily at home, she and the others wait in a 'down stay' in their crates with the doors open when I go to the kitchen to fill their food dishes, and she's solid at that, but at class with other dogs lying near her is a different story!
Vicki called a few days ago to say that Ffyn has been very clingy lately, though he's still outgoing at the dog park each morning. Apple has been the same. I was worried that she had turned shy until I talked to Vicki and then I realized that both she and Ffyn are going through a phase. And, two days later, that phase seems to be over for Apple. For about a week, I couldn't get her to go out and play; she would just sit on the porch and scratch at the door to come in and be with me. Didn't want me out of her sight. Yesterday, she was back to her old self running around the yard, finding her ball, chasing her mom, completely forgetting about me. Yay!
I have been busy checking off my list of things to do before Evan's upcoming wedding. Got my dress, shoes, made my necklace this week, got the bridesmaids gifts done, got the rehearsal dinner set and the invitations out. Not much left to do. Looking forward to the wedding.
A few weeks ago, Carlene let me know that Clover had contracted Tularemia (Rabit Fever) and was on antibiotics. She was getting her appetite back and seemed on the mend. Carlene emailed this week that Clover is still lethargic and not eating well. I am concerned and hoping to hear that all is well.
Eva Szabo and Donna Weber are expecting their first litter today. I wish them good luck and hope that Lucy's labor and delivery goes smoothly and that all puppies are healthy and strong.
06Jul09
We got through the holiday with only Cedar being bothered with the fireworks. During the afternoon/evening, after hearing a boom I could distract him with "Wow! Did you see that BIRD?!!", but after bedtime he couldn't settle down and had to sleep with us until sometime in the wee hours when I put him back in his bed. Apple had no problems with the fireworks. Before the parade, I walked her through the village that was 3 rows deep with people up and down the main street - North Branch pulls a crowd for its parade. I took her home before the parade started - figured she'd had enough. We had family and friends here Saturday afternoon and the dogs were so well behaved. Both Jack & I were proud of them.
Birch is improving his skills at Paul Morrison's. Doing even better now that Paul's AWS (American Water Spaniel) girls are no longer in heat.
Sharon sent photos of Lily today. I'll get them on the website tomorrow.
Vicki reports that Ffyn had no trouble with the fireworks, even with their neighbor putting on a 45 minute fireworks display.
02Jul09
I sent out an email to the families of Plum's puppies to remind them about the upcoming fireworks and how they should respond to their dogs in a possible fearful situation. Both Vicki and Sharon emailed back to say that neither Ffyn nor Lily are fearful. Vicki reports that around their house, he's known as Fearless Ffyn, 'he's all nosey and confidence' and so far has not been afraid of anything. Sharon reports that she was concerned about Lily's reaction to fireworks prior to their Victoria Day and says, 'I needn't have worried. Lily hasn't a timid bone in her body! There were a few fireworks again last night for Canada Day, but again Lily was fine.' Good to hear. Apple isn't afraid of thunder storms, and we've had our share of those lately, so I'm hoping the fireworks won't bother her either. Also hoping to hear the same of Clover, Bailey, and Crash.
27Jun09
Today Apple and I went to Hunters Creek Club for a 'Meet The Sporting Breeds' event. It was for people who want to be judges and who need to learn about the breeds. Most of the Sporting Group was represented, except for Welshies. Well, Apple represented, but she couldn't participate because the committee didn't plan on any Welsh attending. Seems they contacted the Upland WSS Club and the 'Club' declined to participate. Hmmm! Apple and I had a good time anyway, and got to meet interesting people and dogs and even ran into a few friends: Nancy Chapman, UPLAND member who was there with the Golden group; Diane Loudon and Val from CDTC; and Vivian from CDS.
On Thursday I went down to Sandy's to see the puppies that Winnie & Filson had in the early hours. So little and sweet. Good, strong eaters, and Winnie was being such a good mother and didn't mind having company at all.
16 Jun09
We got an email from Paul Morrison today. Seems he was out working Birch on his quartering pattern, threw a Dokken (a bumper that looks like a bird) into high cover and Birch charged after it. Paul says: All I could see was grass moving. Then I realized that he was past the bumper and on his way to something else. I tried to whistle him back but he would not respond. Then there was the beating of wings and grass moving everywhere. Suddenly up came a big hen TURKEY with Birch leaping in the air after her. She barely cleared his grasp and he took off after her. I kept whistling and calling until he finally stopped and came in. I praised him for finding us a bird and we went back after the dummy. He had a great time and I had a good laugh. The turkey is probably breathing a sigh of relief. Jack and I are so happy that Birch is having fun at 'camp'! He must have been so happy :) Our thanks to Paul for his staying in touch with us, for working so diligently with Birch, and for his patience and humor.
15Jun09
Bailey's family sent photos today. I added them to his webpage. Puppies photos can be viewed by clicking the 'Litters' link, then clicking on their names. He's a big, handsome dog who had a great time on his first camping trip.
12Jun09
Today would be my dad's 80th birthday. He passed away at age 53. Amazing that I've lived without him in my life for 27 years. Still miss him.
Vicki called with news of Ffyn. Seems there was a segment on TV about a baseball game that was interrupted by a flock of seagulls, and there was Ffyn standing on his hind legs, feet on the TV watching the birds! He's a Bird Dog!! They are looking forward to the Upland WSS club possibly hosting a field fun day this fall to get Ffyn started on field work.
The puppies were 7 months old yesterday. I can still remember how little they were at birth, and now they're nearly full grown.
11Jun09
Got an email update on Clover with lots of photos. Will get them on the website soon. Carlene writes that Clover is adored by all the family and she greets them with equal enthusiasm when they arrive home, though she has become Carlene's shadow. As you can see by the photos, she does take after her dad, Filson, with her desire to help in the kitchen, though it looks like she is actually learning how to run the dishwasher! (See Fil's photos on the Gallery, Friends & Their Dogs webpage.) A few weeks ago they noticed she wasn't her usual self and wasn't eating. After a blood test, it was determined that she has Tularemia (Rabbit Fever). Luckily daughter Alexis remembered seeing Clover bring a dead rabbit out of the tall grass a few days back, which triggered the vet to do the test. She seems to be on the mend and really attached to all the good stuff Carlene had been putting on her food to encourage her to eat! Clover has some interesting playmates in Brody, Marbles, Opus, Cricket. Yes, one of her friends is a Pig! It appears that she is living a great life, with a good family and many good friends. They are waiting until she is back to feeling better before having her spayed.
10Jun09
Lots of news today. I got back last night from our trip to Thirteen hours in the van! Do I have good dogs, or what!?! Such troopers!! Unloaded some of the stuff then, but need to finish the rest today. I'm going to pick Cedar up from son, Jason's, house tonight when he gets home from work - YES!, he got a job :) Yay, Jase!!! And, Cedar adjusted very well to his week there, though Jason's cats had just finally relaxed on day 6 of Cedar's visit.
I stopped at Paul Morrison's house on the way home and left Birchie with him for field training. We are hoping to enter some field trials this fall with Birch.
I had a lovely visit with Betty & Bill Oister in VA. The dogs got to swim in the pool twice and they loved it. Birch & Plum swam and swam and swam. Apple finally fell in trying to grab a bumper from another dog, and decided she liked it. She was mostly swimming with her head up and her rear down that first day, so we put her in a life jacket and that helped her get her rear up where it was supposed to be. Plum was also swimming with her rear a bit low in the water the first day in the pool, but was back to her good form on the second day. Must be she needed to work muscles that hadn't been used in several months. While I'm trying to write this, Apple is pestering me to give her attention. She's going to miss having Birch to wrestle with!
Birch got Reserve Winners Dog on two of the 4 days he was entered in the VA shows from the Open class over some professional handlers, which helped my handling-ego a bit :) Apple was entered 2 days and got Reserve Winners Bitch both days from the 6-9 puppy class. She handled perfectly even though I never managed to find time to get her to a handling class, so I was very pleased with her. She got lots of attention from friends and other WSS folk because she is a puppy. It was a great socializing experience for her and she handled it all very well.
The Greater Chesapeake WSS Club members had their wonderful lunch prior to their club meeting on the Saturday of the show. I handed in my application and am hoping to be voted in as a member at their next meeting. They are a wonderful group of people and I enjoy their friendship, camaraderie, and competitiveness. Their club is very conscientious regarding judges chosen for shows and those who choose the judges agree not to show their dogs under the chosen judges. Fair play. Good ethics. I do appreciate that. A great group of people.
Wildlife update: Jack called me on my drive home to tell me that a painted turtle was laying eggs in the beach sand of our Swimming Pond yesterday afternoon. I looked from outside the pond fence and could see where she spread the sand to cover her nest. We are going to Google 'painted turtle egg gestation' today and try to find out when they will be born. It is going to be challenging to keep them safe while letting the dogs swim in the pond. And, the mother Wood Duck was out in the Turtle Pond with her babies last night and this morning. I was glad to see them, though the pond grass is now so tall that it's difficult to get a clear view. I'm hoping she still has all fourteen safe & sound.
Candy called while Bill was driving Betty and I to their favorite steakhouse. She and John and Bailey went camping over the rainy weekend and Bailey had a blast. He was busy playing with the children who were there, and playing ball, and going for walks, and using all his energy. He slept very soundly each night and had a great time. He didn't mind the rain one bit, though Candy now has the tents spread out to dry in her garage :) Candy got some photos taken and said she will send them so I can put them on the website. She also found a new dog training center and she and Bailey are going to go back to class to work on his pulling while on leash and just general good behavior.
Well, I better get outside and finish unloading the van......
29May09
Spent a few hours at Sandy Holmes' house today with Apple and Birch. She groomed them for me and made them look like a million bucks! We got some photos. Will try to get them on the website tomorrow. Really nice to spend time with her and to see her pretty dogs.
Let all the dogs out to run when I got home. Nice 72 degree day, partly sunny, and lovely to be outside. The alfalfa is taller than the dogs and it's so funny to see their heads popping up as they spring through the field - boing, boing, boing!
I'm in 'road trip' mode as of this afternoon. Leaving soon for VA for 4 days of dog shows. Looking forward to spending time with Betty Oister and my 'east coast' friends. Betty is putting me up, along with Birch, Plum, and Apple. Pretty brave of her!! Betty also included Cedar in her invitation, but he is going to spend the week with Jason, who is looking forward to his visit.
Bailey was neutered today. Candy reports that he's doing well.
Planning to meet up with Kristen on my way back from VA and see Crash and meet their Che. Can't wait to see how he's looking.
25May09
Memorial Day. Lovely, breezy and sunny day.
Added photos to many pages.
23May09
I looked out the window this morning and there was the tiniest baby duck swimming around by himself. I took some photos with the zoom feature on my camera. If they are in focus I will put them on the gallery page. Sometimes with a long zoom, I can't keep the camera still enough to keep the photos in focus. Then, I put on my camera and binoculars and went out to stand in the yard and watch him/her. While I was out there, I saw the muskrat eating and bringing foliage to it's den. I stood there for about 45 minutes watching the baby Wood Duck eating and seemingly oblivious to the fact that he was alone. About 15 minutes after I came back in the house, I checked out the window and there was the mother Wood Duck and 14 babies!!! No wonder she lost track of one - that's a lot of babies all going in different directions.
Lily was spayed yesterday. Sharon reports that she is doing well and doesn't seem too bothered by the cone collar.
Miss Apple Lee, alias Monster Puppy, has learned how to open our exterior doors. They have levers instead of knobs, and after jumping at the door and having the door open because she hit the handle just right, she now lets herself in and out of the house. Yesterday, Jack & I were mowing the yard (me) and the field (Jack) while the dogs were also in the yard. Apple apparently decided she wanted to go in the house, because the next time I passed that side of the house the door was wide open. So we have to keep the dead bolts locked even if we're outside with the dogs. ! Luckily, she no longer dashes to my night stand (for my ear plugs which I now keep in the drawer) or the bathroom (to snatch the toilet paper) when I let her out of the crate in the morning. We are able to keep the bathroom door open all day, though I haven't left my ear plugs on the nightstand, just in case. One thing I can say: Life is never dull! :)
18May09
Added some photos of Ffyn today that Vicki took of their visit to the dog park.
14May09
Added two photos of Bailey to his photo page.
Added the beautiful photo of Birch and his dam and sister that his wonderful breeder sent to me. Spirit, Birch's dam, won the Brood Bitch class at the National Specialty. Thank you, Sandy Roth, for this lovely photo of an exciting win.
12May09
I went up to the cabin on Friday with my mom for our annual Mother's Day/open the cabin trip. I left Cedar & Plum home with Jack and took Birch & Apple along. Beautiful weather - cool & sunny. Got home today in time for dinner.
FYI: The Upland WSS Club is hosting a Supported Entry on July 4th in Monroe, Michigan. Those of you who haven't had a chance to spend time with Welshies, this would be a perfect time for you to come, see the dogs in the show and stay afterwards for our always wonderful lunch and sit in on our club meeting. When it gets closer to the show date, I'll let you know our ring time and ring number so you can find us.
11May09
Today is Plum's 3rd birthday!!! It's been a wonderful 3 years. She is still so special, so fun, cute, sweet, and a joy to have in our lives. And, the puppies are 6 months old today. Wow, did that time fly by! Happy Birthday Plum and Plum Puppies!!
06May09
Added a new photo on the Gallery page and one on Plum's page.
Getting some entries mailed to do some summer shows with Birch.
Working with Apple on stacking. She is holding her stack longer and longer each time. Now we need to start some work on a show lead in the yard. Birch and I are working on rally in the yard so he gets used to working outside. I hope we can get our Rally Novice title this summer. He has one leg toward the title, needs two more.
It's been a long time coming, but Apple will finally sit and wait with the others when I open the door until I give the word that they can go outside. She was so intense about being the first one out, that I didn't think I was going to get through to her, but YAY, she's finally understanding! Now, I can also leave her crate door open, tell her to down and wait in it, and she'll stay there when I go to the kitchen, fill her dish with food and bring it back to her. It's fun to see her learning. She also stood on the grooming table a long time today while I trimmed her feet and ears. It was tough, but I got her to lay down on the table so I could work on her back feet. I put a crate pad on the grooming table to soften it and she finally managed to stay down and let me trim her feet and nails. I never got around to to teach the others to do that - makes grooming her feet so much easier.
24Apr09
Crash was neutered today. Kristen reports that he is healing well.
23Apr09
Apple 'graduated' from her puppy class today. Since I was assisting with the class, she didn't get to participate as much as I would have liked, but she was good in the few classes she got to attend. I won't be assisting in the next class so she and I can take the class together.
After class I met Laurel for a late lunch and then we took the dogs through the Pet Smart store to buy more dog treats - boy do we go through treats! They liked looking at the turtles and Birch liked the fish in the tanks.
16Apr09
A muskrat came up from the Turtle Pond and under the fence into the property yesterday late afternoon. I had called the dogs in and only 3 came, so I stepped on the porch to look for Birch and he was at the far corner of the property swinging a muskrat by the tail. I grabbed the leash & choke chain off the counter (had been using it when I train with Apple) and dashed out there. By then the muskrat had disappeared back under the fence to the vegetation, and Birch was looking for him. I slipped the choke over his head and got a smear of blood on the back of my hand and also over my watch. Took a bit to find the wounds and stop the blood. Luckily he only seemed to have one bite. Looks the the muskrat's lower teeth went into Birch's chin and the upper teeth went into the bottom of his mouth, under his tongue. The wound on his chin was smaller in width to the inside wound, which was about a half inch long. I got him into the vet the next day and he got a rabies booster and antibiotics as a precaution, though there was no swelling or anything else. Now Birch heads out to that area everyday looking to see if that rodent has come back!
13Apr09
Have new photos of Lily and Clover posted on their pages. Thank you Forsyth's and Condon's!
12Apr09
Had a little glitch and couldn't update the website until today. Added some photos of Ffyn that Vicki sent. Have some of Clover that her family sent but I haven't gotten them on the site yet. Will work on it tomorrow.
08Apr09
We are back from the 2009 WSS National Specialty that was held in Wichita. Put 2,333 miles on the van. The nice part, besides feeding me and letting me spend the night before we hit the road, was that Sandy Holmes and I convoyed nearly the whole drive and it was nice to have the company. I left her to drive home alone from Indianapolis onward because I needed to go to Columbus to pick up Apple. Sandy has been a good friend and mentor. Thank you, Sandy.
I only took Birch with me to the Nat'l and he came in second in his class (Open) on Friday and Sunday and won his class on Saturday, the day of the Specialty. Plum was in heat when we left home and Birch wasn't quite himself the whole trip. He only ate 2 meals in 7 days. But he showed very well. I was proud of him. His breeder, who helped me finish grooming him (thank you, Sandy Roth!!) entered his dam in the Brood Bitch class and and won. Birch and his sister, Paige, looked nice together. I'm eager to get a copy of the show photo of the three of them.
I enjoyed a lovely dinner & visit with Karen and Keith Lyle, Eva Szabo, Donna Weber, and Andrea Pease and her daughter, Amy, on Friday. The banquet on Saturday had really wonderful food and the Central States club did a wonderful job with their silent auction. The Upland club basket didn't win the highest bid at the raffle this year, but it certainly was impressive. Good job Eva and Donna!! I enjoyed sitting with Andrea, Amy, Eva, Donna, Cindy Rhine, Jill McNicol DVM, Mary Johnson, and Penny Williamson at the banquet. Jill told us some hilarious stories of her life as an emergency vet.
While I was in Kansas, Vicki (Ffyn's mom) kept Apple for me, because Jack had his hands full with work, umpiring, and Plum and Cedar. Vicki took Apple and Ffyn to the senior day care center where she works and Apple got to ride the elevator and be held and petted by the staff and clients. She had a great time playing with her brother, Ffyn, and Ffyn's house-sister, Poppy. Thank you, Vicki, for taking good care of my puppy girl and for feeding me and giving me lodging the last day of our trip.
29Mar09
Well, our little glimpse of Spring is over. Today we started with rain and now have about an inch of icy snow. That's Michigan :)
Vicki sent some lovely photos of Ffyn and family. Check them out by clicking on his name on the Litters page. Vicki's family have an annual chili party (this was the 19th party) and they had about 60 people in their house. Ffyn took it all in stride. Also she and Ffyn graduated from puppy kindergarten. Vicki said they lost the relay by 3 seconds to a handler 40 years younger than she is and all the other owners were much younger so she feels like they did a wonderful job.
Lily's family is working on 'recall' and she is doing wonderful.
Bailey's family reports that he also graduated from puppy kindergarten and that he's loosing his teeth.
Apple lost 4 teeth in the last 2 days. All her canines are gone. Her front lower and upper teeth are coming in. I've been washing all the blood off the toys. Finally put all the soft toys up until she's done loosing teeth - bloody toys are not appealing! Most of the puppies now (at 4.5 months) weigh 27 -29 pounds, except Lily who takes after her mom.
Crash is much loved. Kristen sent me a video of him with her cell phone. Isn't technology amazing! He is handsome, and doing well.
27Mar09
Woke this morning to a pond full of ducks. We have 2 ancient muck ponds on the property that hold the water that drains off the land, and one swimming pond that we had dug several years ago. On the back muck pond, we have several Wood ducks and Mallards that nest every year (we call that pond the Duck Pond). It's wonderful to hear the Woodies calling in the Fall when they congregate on the pond prior to their migration. Last year we had over 15 Woodies come Fall. On the side muck pond (that we call the Turtle Pond), we usually have one Mallard nesting and have lots of painted turtles. Occasionally we have Canadian Geese land on the Swimming Pond. They are So Messy, so I send the dogs out to bark at the fence. This doesn't always send the geese away and I sometimes have to go out with brooms to wave in the air to convince them to leave. We don't have fish in the swimming pond, just a few frogs and water bugs, so there isn't much for ducks to eat there. The big news this morning was a pair of Buffleheads! They are diving ducks that we see on Lake Huron at the cabin in May. I suppose this pair is resting on their trip north. They've dived a few times, but mostly are just floating making a lovely picture. I don't want to scare them away, so I've taken a few photos from the porch with my little zoom lens.
Mornings with my coffee on the screened porch listening to the birds and ducks with the dogs watching the robins and red-winged blackbirds - my idea of Heaven. Today is going to be beautiful - sunny and mild. The daffodil leaves are just poking up through the ground. Winter may finally be over for 8 months!
24Mar09
Oh, I am slipping! I forgot to post that Birch got his first rally novice leg on Friday. The CDTC club put it on and that's where we take classes, so he was pretty comfortable. We got there waaaay too early. Neither of us do 'wait' very well, but I found nice people to talk with and even one of the Upland WSS club members was there. It was good to see Gail and hear the accomplishments of her honorary WSS (a Belgian Tervuren). The course wasn't too difficult, but then Diane Loudon, our rally teacher, includes advance and excellent stations in our classes so we were well prepared. We had a score of 97, and would have scored higher if I had done a better job. I wanted to move him through quickly so he didn't get distracted, but then I didn't give him any warning that I was going to halt, so he stood there looking around and it took a minute to get his attention back. They handed out stuffed toys after they gave us our ribbons, and Birch got a stuffed police car. He carried it out of the ring and showed it off! He's so cute :) When we first walked into the building, several people mentioned what a beautiful dog he is.
Haven't decided on the next trial. My mind is too filled with all the preparations that have to be done before I leave to the WSS National Speciality in Wichita, Kansas next week. So much to do and most of it has to be done at the last minute, which makes for a flurry of packing and loading then a LONG drive. Can't wait to see all my Welshie friends and all the beautiful dogs!
10Mar09
I put Apple on the grooming table and managed, with numerous treats, to groom all four feet (usually only get one done) and nails, used the stripping stone on her Mohawk and ears, and did a quick brushing of her nearly toothless mouth. Also turned on the clippers, left the guard on, and put them to her ears in preparation for the eventual ear grooming. She's still a baby and I don't want to take off all her puppy hair until it's necessary, but I also don't want her be afraid of the clippers. She was fine with this. She looked beautiful when we were done :)
When we arrived at the training club, the parking lot was full. Looked just like when the club hosts a trial. I walked in with Apple on leash and there was a solid crowd of people and dogs. She was a bit worried and I picked her up to keep her safe. I sat with her on my lap while the majority of people left and the rest started setting up for the meeting. Then I put her back on the floor and she was fine. She was held by a few people and was happy to meet everyone and happy with all the dogs, though I didn't let her do more than a quick nose to nose sniff.
09Mar09
Apple had her rabies shot today. She weighed 24#. Taking her with me tonight to the CDTC meeting just to meet everyone and get more socializing.
06Mar09
Apple & I both had 'firsts' yesterday. I had my first day of being a class assistant for the Puppy/Beginner class at CDTC and Apple had her first day at the training center and obedience class. I put Apple and Birch together in a crate in the building and then took class registrations and money and made out an attendance sheet for the instructor. The dogs waited patiently in their crate as all the other dogs and owners started arriving. The puppy class has 7 students. After the puppy class, I got Apple out of the crate to walk around on leash and visit with all the dogs and people. She was very good!! Next was the rally/obedience class that Birch and I take. I took Apple in the class for some heeling and sits and downs. She was perfect. Didn't want to miss time in class with Birch, so back Apple went in the crate and it was Birch's turn. Apple whined the tiniest bit, then just watched and behaved. Birch did a great job in class. He has settled down so much now that he's two. And he's so smart. It's fun to have that time with him.
Also, Jack brought home a bag of popcorn from a basketball game last night and today I threw some for the dogs to catch. Didn't take Apple long to figure out how to catch it so the big dogs wouldn't snatch up her pieces!
02Mar09
Apple had her third set of vaccines which included only Distemper, Parvo, and Hepatitis today. She weighed in at 22.3#. Will go back in a few weeks for her Rabies shot. I heard from Crash's family last week and he weighed 21.7# at his appointment.
Taking her with me on Thursday to the training club. I'm assisting in the puppy class, and the following class is Birch's rally class, so she will get more training and dog/people exposure.
The puppies are 16 weeks / 4 months old tomorrow. Whoosh! Time flies.
28Feb09
Haven't been updating - busy socializing Apple, doing some spring cleaning, still battling this cold.
Got 2 used books at Sandy Holmes' suggestion: Before You Get Your Puppy and After You Get Your Puppy by Dr Ian Dunbar. Got them from www.abebooks.com. Very good; concise. Wish I had had them to give to my puppy buyers. Will definitely have them for my buyers if I have another litter.
Odd weather today. Started out in the upper 30's and there was a light rain when we woke up. Shortly after, the rain on the porch was frozen and Apple slid and fell down going out the dog door. Got windy and then there was a light snow of big flakes off and on all afternoon. Was in the low 20's at 3pm so I let the dogs out to run and get some exercise. Luckily, I wanted to do a training exercise with the whistle, and when they came running for their treats, I realized my error. The ground was not frozen and their legs and bellies were covered with mud and ice. Plum's head was covered from getting bowled over by Birch. They left little muddy drops all through the house! Four dogs make a bigger mess than three. They dried off in their crates while I mopped up :)
20Feb09
Apple has not lost any of her baby teeth yet, but she seems to be intent on chewing. Several soft toys have had to be tossed, and the Nylabones are showing wear.
I've not been doing a good job this week on housebreaking. As soon as I think, 'she's been playing hard for awhile so I better let her out', she pees by the door. I've had a head/chest cold all week, so I guess that's my excuse.
She's doing well otherwise. She's learning from the big dogs about waiting her turn ("it's Cedar's turn" means the others have to get out of my space while I give attention to one dog at a time), she learned Speak on Wednesday and I even got Birch to finally bark on command. She has learned Down and to stay down until I bring her food. She learned Kennel Up so fast, just like her mom. She runs to her crate and jumps in,sliding her crate pads to the back of the crate in her enthusiasm, and plops her bottom down to get a treat. Most of the time she is fine in her crate. Occasionally she throws a tantrum, but it doesn't last long.
She makes thudding sounds with her big feet as she trots down the hallway.
She's enjoyed visiting businesses in North Branch. Wants everyone to notice her and pet her. I'm looking forward to getting rid of this cold and feeling more up to socializing her. The 'socializing window' closes soon - she's already 14.5 weeks old!
She's doing well on the grooming table. I've been stacking her and she will stand very nicely. She has to be fed treats while I trim her nails and hair. I've used the electric clippers on her ears - with the blade cover on so that I didn't actually cut any hair - and she didn't mind as long as I have treats ready. I used the stripping stone on the top of her head because she has what looks like a Mohawk! I got out some downy white hair, but it didn't remove the Mohawk. Silly looking! It's puppy hair, so I hope it will fall out and look less goofy soon. In the meantime, it suits her character!
Heard from the other puppies' families and they are doing well. It's good to hear from them. Clover has been going to work with Fred and is the official greeter. Bailey's family had a short report that all is well and their computer is down. Reminds me to back-up mine - would be devastating to loose all that I have on this laptop! Lily is attracting many friends over to play with Lianna and Catherine and will be starting her puppy classes in April. Ffyn has a wonderful puppy kindergarten class and Vicki reports that he is doing very well in class and at home. Crash has his next vaccine on the 23rd and Kristen reports that he is doing well, also. Yay :) I have The Best Puppy Owners!
11Feb09
Crash's family sent photos and I got them on the website today. Click on the Litters link at the top of the page, then click on his name given below his photos.
09Feb09
Bailey's family reports that he had his 2nd vaccines on Friday and that he weighed 18 pounds! Their daughter is home on a break from grad school and Bailey's getting lots of extra attention :)
Very sad news. Rhonda Kuhn had to say goodbye to her 'Moochie' boy, Tiger. What a sweet dog he was and his nephew, Birch, reminds me so much of Tiger's happy, sweet, energetic personality. Tiger was only six and a half - way too soon to loose such a wonderful dog and companion.
08Feb09
Cedar & Birch's half-brother, Colin (Ch Harmony's Welch Fanfare out of Ch Fanfare Swingn On The Fairway x Ch Lynlee's Serenade In Harmony) placed 7th nationally and was invited to enter the Westminster show. Being invited and getting in are two different things as the show only accepts 2500 entries and chooses 2500 envelopes out of all the entries received and the rest don't get in. So he was very fortunate and we are looking forward to the chance that he might be the breed winner and be on TV Tuesday evening! Colin's sire is also Birch's sire and Colin's dam is also Cedar's dam.
Crash's family sent some great photos yesterday. I will try to get them on the website by tomorrow.
06Feb09
Apple had her 2nd vaccine appointment today. She didn't even flinch at the shot. She weighed 17.5#.
02Feb09
I made a gallery page for Ffyn with the photos that Vicki sent me. Just missing photos of Crash. Haven't taken any of Apple - she doesn't hold still unless she's sleeping and I have enough of those :) Mostly I get photos of her passing though the view finder!
25Jan09
I've put photos from Lily's family, Bailey's family, and Clover's family on the website. Go to the Litters page and click on their underlined names beneath their photos to see them in their new homes with their new families.
21Jan09
Wonderful news: Birch's OFA results came today. His thyroid is normal. His elbows are normal. His hips are EXCELLENT :) Thank you, Sandy, for this special dog.
We've finally had 2 days of sunshine, no wind, and the temps made it to the low 20's - heaven compared to the past few weeks. Been having fun in the snow with the dogs. Apple is doing her best to keep up with us through the deep drifts. She's tenacious. She's learned 'kennel up' and runs to her crate with gusto to get her treat.
I'm hearing good news from the new puppy owners. All seem to be doing well with their crate training and house training. All are well-loved and I am so lucky to have found such terrific families. I received some wonderful photos of Ash/Clover and her family. Looking forward to photos of the other puppies and their families.
18Jan09
Today Maple left with her family from Toronto. It is their youngest daughter's birthday. They had a long drive in yesterday's snow storm and hopefully will have easier travel today - provided Maple, now Lily, is a good girl.
Now we just have our puppy left. She loves being with the big dogs. Fits right in.
16Jan09
The Minnesota family came today to pick up Spruce, who is now called Bailey. He liked them right off and it was mutual. They seem very pleased. Maple, now Lily, is going to her home on Sunday and then we'll just be down to our Apple.
15Jan09
Birch and I went to rally/obedience class today. It's been a year since we have done any training in a class setting and he did such a great job! He waited in a crate while I walked the rally course without fussing and also when I was filling out paperwork and writing my check. Proud of him!
14Jan09
Good news - Spruce has a home! He's going to Minnesota on the 16th and his name is going to be Milestone Majestic Red Spruce, call name Bailey. Today Pine, Milestone Whispering Pine, call name Ffyn, will go home to Ohio to live with Vicki and Ricardo and their Welshie, Poppy, Ch Glenevan Red Delicious who is 4. Ash, now home in Massachusetts, is Milestone Holly In Clover Fields, call name Clover. Oak, living in Maryland, is Milestone Mighty Red Oak, don't think they've chosen a call name yet. Oak's family also live with a half-sister to Plum named Che who is 19 months old. Maple is Milestone Canadian Maple Leaf, and her new name is Lily. She is going home with her family to Toronto on the 18th. Apple is going to be our puppy and is keeping her name. Her registered name will be the name of an apple tree. We've narrowed the apple tree list down to 3....
Tomorrow Birch and I start back at Rally classes with Diane Loudon at Companion Dog Training Center in Flint where I am a member.
I've been trying to fit in time to update my website. Making a few changes now that the puppies are going to their homes. Probably won't get it done until after the last puppy leaves on Sunday, the 18th.
11Jan09
Yesterday Ash, now Clover, and Oak, still to be named, went with their new owners. I managed not to cry. It really helped to have such wonderful families taking my puppies. Pine, now Ffyn, will go to his home in Columbus, OH on the 14th, and Maple's family is coming on the 18th. I still counted to six when I let them out to play in the snow this morning - and then remembered I only have 4 now. We got a few inches of big fluffy snowflakes and it's in the low 20's, but they had fun. Got some photos. I heard from each family and so far the puppies have adapted easily. The remaining four are now in play mode - I can tell that by the noise level in my dining room :)
09Jan09
It hasn't slowed down all week. Took the puppies and Birch to the Veterinary Ophthalmologist on Wednesday. Birch has an allergy and was given drops to make his eyes feel better. It's not a food or outdoor allergy, but something in the home. The Vet said it would be impossible to figure out what is causing it, and ever if we found out the cause, it might not stop the irritation in his eyes. The puppies were wonderful for their CERF tests. All have a small amount of iris to iris persistent pupillary membranes (PPMs) which does not effect their vision. You can learn more about PPM's at: http://www.vmdb.org/dx1.html.
I have to tell you what wonderful travelers the puppies are! The trip to Dr. Ramsey for the CERF tests was 1.5 hrs one way. They fussed for the first 2 miles, then were quiet the rest of the way. Same on the way home. On Thursday, we went to the local vet for their vaccines and exams and they didn't even fuss for the first few miles - they just fell asleep! I had to take a photo on the way to Dr. Ramsey's of all the sleeping dogs in my van. Never had so many sleeping dogs in my van before.
All the puppies got a clean bill of health and Birch got blood drawn for his OFA Thyroid test. The vet checked to be sure all the microchips were in place - they were. She looked them over head to tail, weighed them, and gave them their shots. I gave them a treat just before the needle went in and none of them even winced. Good puppies!
Tomorrow the first two puppies go to their new homes. I've been so busy catching up on housework and puppy laundry that I haven't had time to think about how much I'll miss them. It's going to be hard to see them go, but their new families are so wonderful I know each puppy will be loved and cared for.
Back to housework!
05Jan09
We've been busy! Sorry for the lapse in news. The evaluations are done. Verdict: really nice litter. We are keeping Apple. Pine is going to a show home in OH. Maple is going to a pet home in Toronto. Ash is going to a pet home on Martha's Vineyard. And, Oak is going to a pet home in MD who already have one Welshie who is a half sister to Plum. Spruce doesn't have a home, yet, but I'm sure we'll find one soon.
Today Pine's owner and I took the puppies to our local physical therapy office for socializing. They were a hit. The people walking in the doors were surprised to find Pet Therapy available :) The puppies were their usual cute selves, and very well behaved. The good folks who own and work there have been following the growth of the puppies because Jack was going there for PT on his knee.
When we got home, we let them play outside for about 30 minutes, then they nursed, ate, and fell sound asleep. This afternoon, I took all nine (9!) Welshies out in the back yard for some good exercise. The puppies had a blast. I scooped the dog run while I was outside and then took everyone back in. Except for Oak, who got left in the dog run and was letting me know! I rescued him and he made it up the big porch steps by himself for the first time (down is easy, up is harder).
If you know of anyone who really loves training dogs and is into agility or tracking or something else that requires a smart, athletic, eager dog, tell them about Spruce. He's usually the first one to do everything, and he learns so quickly. He's also going to be a very striking dog with his solid red back.
I'm way behind in posting photos. I'll get to that soon.
31Dec08
It's the last day of an eventful year and I can only hope for as much in 2009. The puppies are doing very well. They spend more time playing now, less time sleeping. I've been getting emails from all over the world from people admiring the puppy photos. They seem to make people smile - no surprise, because these little cuties do the same for us. I've noticed that everyone has their favorites, but Pine never makes the list. Poor Pine! I think it's because I gave him such a 'plain jane' name. Should have named him Hickory or Shag Bark or Chestnut or Juniper or Linden. He is so sweet and mellow and confident and alert and will make a wonderful family dog. Let's hear it for Pine!
Happy New Year everyone.
26Dec08
The puppies have had a lot of visitors in the past few days. They seem to enjoy everyone. They got a chance to play outside today in the snow. We are to get rain tonight and the temperature is supposed to go to 55 degrees tomorrow - very unusual! If that happens all the snow will be gone and it will be very wet. Not good for playing outside.
20Dec08
Finally, I remembered my camera when the dogs and puppies played outside today! It was only 18 degrees, but the snow was light and fluffy and it was easy to clear a place for them, especially since the snow drifted on it's own and left a place nearly free of snow. Birch had a blast with the puppies. These next few weeks are going to be a treat for him - to have all those playmates! Cedar could care less about the puppies. I think he's worried that we're going to keep them all. Seems like he ignores them hoping they'll go away. Plum sat down to nurse the few who were interested. They had just had lunch and were too busy playing to stop to eat. I'll get working on the photos and get them on the site soon.
18Dec08
Took the puppies out to play in the snow this morning. Most of them made it up the steps this time. Then, I took Pine and Spruce out in the afternoon to play in the backyard while I scooped the dog run. The big dogs were out and Birch came over to play with the puppies while Cedar and Plum chased birds from the bushes. Birch and Spruce were so cute playing together. I wish I had my camera with me.
Tomorrow is Birch's 2nd birthday!!!! He's been the baby - the youngest until the puppies were born. He's scheduled to have his hips and elbows xrayed (to check for hip and elbow dysplasia). He and I are also going back to rally/obedience classes in Jan.
17Dec08
Took the puppies out to play in the snow this afternoon. We have about 5" of light fluffy snow that I shoveled away from the middle of their fenced area. They played in the sunshield snow as much as the shoveled area. A few of them made it up a few steps, and all were willing to give it a try. I didn't wait for them all to manage the steps because some started shivering (it was 22 degrees) and I didn't want any to turn into pupsicles.
Jack is going to help me with photos tonight. If we get some good ones I'll get them on the site by tomorrow.
The big dogs had fun on their snow mountain today. Jack shoveled the new snow on top of what remained from the last mountain. Cedar was busy digging and Birch and Plum were waiting behind him to grab chunks of snow to eat. Fun! :)
13Dec08
Jack & I took the puppies on a car ride today to do a little local Christmas shopping. They fussed for a few minutes because Plum was in the crate next to them and they wanted to get to her. She, being the best traveler ever, curled up and fell asleep so they did the same. They didn't even potty and we were gone about an hour. Good puppies!!
My friend and neighbor, Robin, came over to hold every puppy. We were in the midst of blasting winds and freezing rain and she nearly was blown across the porch when she stepped out the door to head home. What my friends will go through to help me socialize my puppies!
This week they've been more serious about biting each other and the ones being bitten are yelling louder. Plum (and I) run to see what the yelling is about and when she sees they're just playing, she walks away. I'm sure she knows best, but I usually grab a toy and distract the one doing the biting.
I've been reading Puppy Primer by Brenda Scidmore and Patricia McConnell, Ph.D. I got it used from www.abebooks.com. Good advice, especially the housebreaking chapter.
Thank you to all of you who are looking at the puppies photos. I've heard there are people checking everyday. I wish I could update it everyday but there just hasn't been time. Too busy playing with puppies :) Thanks, everyone!
10Dec08
Today each puppy spent about a minute on the grooming table while I brushed them with my natural soft bristle brush, clipped their nails, attempted to 'stack' them for a second, and played with a Nylabones. None seemed stressed over it, though all had been sleeping, so they were in a very mellow mood. I used my new nail scissors meant for cats and/or puppies. What a difference! I have had such trouble trying to use nail clippers meant for people - they keep slipping out of my grip just as I've got the nail ready to clip. The scissors were very inexpensive - I don't know why I waited so long to try them. They will be good on Gracie, the cat, too :) I know I may be biased, but these puppies just get cuter every day! I will try to get some photos tonight or tomorrow.
09Dec08
What a week of change! They have personalities, they are active and strong on their legs. I hung a water bucket from the edge of their enclosure and one puppy walked right over and got a drink, just like it had always done that. Now they are all using it. It is so fun to hold them now - they are less wiggly and seem to like to be with me or Jack or whoever is holding them. I took their photos with me to the monthly dog training club meeting and everyone commented on how consistent they look. They are bitting and shaking ('killing') now, even when they nurse. Plum isn't too crazy about that and gets up and leaves the pen. Besides nursing, they are eating dry dog food just lightly moistened. They get in the dish and push around and around - those that are not in the dish have to move with the flow. Plum loves to go in and clean up the pieces they spill.
04Dec08
Took the wading pool back out to the garage, and set up an exercise pen for the puppies. I put in a crate tray filled with horse bedding for them to potty in. The space now is about 5' square. They were sleeping when I changed it,and fell right back to sleep when I moved them to the ex-pen, so they haven't explored yet. I need to set up a way for Plum to get in and out on her own. Right now I'm waiting for her to bark to let me know she needs me to let her in or out.
01Dec08
The puppies are more alert and active. They are playing with each other. Their canine teeth have poked through. They are seeing better. I put them in the larger wading pool and it has 'sea characters' printed on the inside. Apple noticed the characters and barked at them. They started to play a bit with the toys I put in with them before falling back to sleep.
30Nov08
Sandy Holmes' Filson sired a litter by Ch Statesman's Superlative (Winnie) today. Three boys and 2 girls. Check Sandy's website at www.trystynwss.com
28Nov08
They are playing! They gum each other's faces and feet. They are almost walking normally - still a bit wobbly. They are so cute with their black noses and dark blue eyes. They look like Beanie Babies. Their ears are growing, and their coats are longer with tiny waves on their ears. This is a big week - they will start to hear, their first teeth will appear, they'll be more mobile. Plum is not with them as much. It's so nice to have her back to herself and playing outside with Cedar & Birch. They're glad to have her back, also. She still won't let them in the nursery, though.
25Nov08
Jack and I celebrated our 36th wedding anniversary.
23Nov08
The puppies' eyes are open! Oh, my, they are even cuter now. Spruce started standing on all four legs yesterday and today the others are trying it. Everyone is wobbly. Today is day 12 and we have 4 more days of BioSensor exercises. I end each puppy's turn with a little plain yogurt on my finger. They look forward to it and have learned to lick my finger clean. Plum is no longer being picky with her food. She's eating great!
17 Nov 08
The five whelpings I assisted friends with prior to whelping my own puppies was done to help my friends and to give me experience with my own whelping. But, after helping them, I went home by day 4 or 5, so I am now in unexperienced territory. Plum is being finicky about eating, so I've had to become a gourmet dog food chef. The puppies are calm and growing and are getting even cuter. We started the Bio Sensor exercises and the first day they Did Not like being on their backs or being upside down. By today they didn't mind at all. I'm still sleeping next to them and getting up a few times each night to see who is yelling and why. Usually it's one who needs to be pottied and Plum is sound asleep or one who crawled behind her and can't find the way out. I should be able to go back to my own bed in a day or so.
11 Nov 08 PUPPIES!
Plum started panting about 9:00am on the 10th. Just panted off and on all day in the whelping box. At 12:20am today, she had her first of 6 puppies. She was all done at 3:20am. She made it look so easy. We took her and the puppies to the vet this morning to see if she needed an oxytocin shot, but the vet said everything is healing quickly and that she is in amazing shape: good muscle tone, shiny coat, no discharge, not too thin. She weighed 10.5 pounds less than she did 4 days ago, and that is still 3 pounds over her normal weight. She has 3 males and 3 females, all weighing between 11 & 13 ounces. Meant to weigh them in grams, but the puppies were coming so fast and I never got a chance to read the directions to the new scale. I kept expecting her to have her puppies on the 12th, and thought I still had time to do those types of things while I was waiting for puppies. Couldn't have done without Jack's help. He was great!
7 Nov 08
The xray shows 6 puppies. Plum has gained 12 pounds and the vet said she is doing very well. Five more days!
3 Nov 08
The puppies are growing quickly now. Plum looks like she swallowed a watermelon. She is not as interested in eating, but is tempted by the addition of yogurt on her food. She is getting fed smaller portions throughout the day. She will get a bath on Thursday, and on Friday we go to the vet for an Xray to see how many puppies she is expecting. I'll start taking her temperature tomorrow, and check it daily. A drop in temperature can indicate whelping is expected within the next 24 hours. She has started looking for a place to have her puppies, so we got out the whelping box for her. She settled in and took a nap, then chewed on a Nylabone for a bit. Puppies are due in 9 days - give or take a couple days.
21 Oct 08
Plum is getting plumper every day. 22 days until her due date. Today we went around the outside of the house and blocked any little places she might want to try to dig a den. Don't want her instincts to cause her to get into a tight spot we can't get her out of.
8 Oct 08
Ultrasound shows Plum is carrying puppies!!! Hip-Hip-Hooray :)
27 Sep 08
Birch got his first 2 points at the Upland WSS Club's Supported Entry at the Monroe Kennel Club with me handling!!!! He's really looking good - finally grew into all his parts :) I had such fun spending the weekend with him at the show and at our club meeting and lunch. It was wonderful to see WSS friends I don't get to see often. Birch especially loved being surrounded by all the beautiful WSS girlies at the Upland meeting.
23 Sep 08
Attended a seminar by Dr. Carmen Battaglia about breeding better dogs. Very informative. I especially love his color-coded pedigree sheets, along with the health pedigrees, and all the specific breeding information. I bought his book and his Choosing The Right Puppy DVD.
21 Sep 2008
Jack, Birch, Cedar and I had a field training lesson today in Howell, MI, with Paul Morrison of the American Water Spaniel Club. Much to learn, but the dogs did better than we expected. Lisa Sinke was there training with Ripley and Adam, too. Lovely cool autumn day. Stopped at local orchard and bought fresh picked apples on the way home.
12 Sep 2008
Got to meet Riitta Jaakkola-LaBorne at Sandy Holmes' lovely home. Great fun to talk dogs and watch dog videos!
31 Aug 2008
Field training with SMSSTC today. Lisa Sinke was there with her WSS Ripley and ECS puppy, Adam. Came back to our house afterwards for lunch and let the dogs swim in the pond. Nice to have Lisa and her dogs here.
24 Aug 2008
The Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of the UK has graciously put my website link on their site. Thank you WSSC!
24 Aug 2008
Field training with SMSSTC today. Dogs are doing well; we are learning. Had fun!
14 Aug 2008
Betty Oister has 2 male Field Spaniel puppies ready to go to pet homes. Sire is Ch Nautica's Skylar Del Prado TD and dam is Ch Manasquan's Foxy Lady.
(540) 856-3475
5 Aug 2008
Plum and Birch pass their CERF (eye) tests again.
25 July 2008
Joined Southeast Michigan Springer Spaniel Training Club to help us field train the dogs.
20 July 2008
Field training with the American Water Spaniel group and Lisa Sinke. Great fun and the dogs did very well.
27 June 2008
Plum's OFA results: Hips Good; Elbows Normal; Thyroid Normal.
18 June 2008
Plum passed her thyroid test.
4 June 2008
Had Plum's hips and elbows Xrayed at MSU. Result NORMAL. Waiting for OFA score.
29 May 2008
Betty Oister's Field Spaniel, Ch Manasquan's Foxy Lady, had 6 puppies - and I helped! Five males and one female. Beautiful solid liver puppies out of Ch Nautica's Skylar Del Prado TD. Contact Betty about puppies at eoister@shentel.net.
24 May 2008
Plum is a CHAMPION! Thanks Chris Berg & Kellie FitzGerald for the wonderful job you did handling our special girl from January to May.
11 May 2008
Plum won her Open class at the Macon Kennel Club show (a WSSCA Supported Entry) in Perry, GA.
10 May 2008
Birch won his class (15-19mos) in the Sweepstakes at the 2008 WSSCA National Specialty.
8 May 2008
Plum went Reserve Winner out of the Open class at the Columbus Kennel Club show, a WSSCA Supported Entry, in Perry GA.
29 April 2008
Starting to work on this website. My first! Hope to get it running online by June 2008.
