Michaelangelo's Awesome Adventuredog Blog

Holidaze and Friends....

2011-12-07T08:51:00.000-08:00

Seems like aaaaggges since we have posted new pictures and fun stories about our adventures! Here it is, FREEEZING cold outside and almost time for Christmas!

This time of year is a big adjustment for us....We definitely prefer the sunshine and warmth of summer...Our walks get shorter in the winter, cuz I don't really like the rain and being soaked and filthy...But we make the best of it and walk lots more on days when it's not wet outside...

Here I am on Thanksgiving day after feasting on some yummy stuff: carrots, sweet potatoes, and organic chicken! YUM!!!

Workin' a little puppy kong action! (Trader Joe's peanut butter treat inside!!)

Hangin' out with our friend Dennis for some lap cuddle...

Michaelangelo has friends and fans everywhere! This is his new friend Gilly, whom he loves to kiss! I do believe Michael misses his kitties he used to live with, Shadow, Rhaja, Pumpkin Pie, and Turzia, oh and there was Moochie Pon for a little while too...

The Dawg's Gone Raw!!!!

2011-03-25T19:32:00.000-07:00

I've been feeding Michael "real" food like chicken, sweet potatoes, eggs, for a long time now, and of course, he occasionally steals a piece of pizza, or sandwich or some other such "human" food item off my plate as to heartily annoy me for about 3 minutes. He knows what he likes, and I tell you, it's damn near everything!!

Going to a holistic vet, and having the tendencies toward more "health" food eating than "fast food", it makes sense to feed my animal which I consider pretty darn important, as well as I can, since dog food is mostly, let's face it people, crap....

My vet was telling me about what he feeds his dogs, and wrote some things down for me and told me to go check out "Meat for Cats and Dogs" and so I did. Michael of course went bananas when we went into the place! One of the guys there (whose name sadly is escaping me right now) gave me quite a lot of information about the raw diet idea for dogs, and talked to me about all my options since I was a newbie there. I finally settled on what seems like the best deal for Michael. He of course LOVES it and is doing backflips to get the food in the morning, and night. He's having nearly no dog kibble - which has been Innova for the past couple of years. When I recently found out Proctor & Gamble bought Innova in addition to other supposedly "higher level" dog food, I was pretty disappointed with that, even though they say "nothing's changed in the processing of the food"... I don't believe it's all that great anyway, and now, I'm seeing in just a few days how Michael seems more "cut" where the doctor showed me he wanted to see him a bit more "trim"....Hhhhhhmm. It's supposed to be perfect for them and their health in everyway. I'm pretty happy with it so far and I appreciate that I dont actually have to handle any raw meat myself personally as it's not something I've ever liked to do (even though I have grown up and do at times eat some meat). The food we're going with is Nature's Variety Instinct and comes in a super tight zip lock freezer bag, and you just take out the required amount (based on your dog's weight) for a dat at a time, leave in the fridge to thaw for a few hours, and they get real meat, real vegetables, and so, yeah! I'm quite happy so far and we'll keep on I do believe.

Check out this testimony from a Meat client who turned her pup's life around by changing the diet to raw!

Where There's Sun, There's Kids! Where There's Sun & Kids, There's Michael!!!

2011-03-15T19:45:00.000-07:00

Part of the fun of summer is all the people and dogs we meet out and about on walks and hikes! The kids, of course come running when they see Michael, and he goes running for them! They offer their treasured toys and trinkets to share with us, and they follow us half way down the street long after we've said our goodbyes! I love the little green disco ball christmas tree ornament and told her I had one just like it!

This sweet little group of kids we've met four or five times before, Michael never seems to forget anyone! He's friends with everyone, so we hang out for a while and visit, and the kids each talking to me about different things at the same time, it's hilarious. Next time, I will HAVE to get video! Their grandpa just smiled & laughed as he watched us all being silly/loud/funny/crazy for about 15 minutes or so but didn't really talk much. The children have a lot better english than their "grampy", as they called him.

Wow. This little guy! He's gonna be a truck driver, he says....
Kids really are fascinated with Michael and I think love him even MORE so because not only is he one really handsome and friendly dog, he's pretty small for such a powerful hunter dog!!
Ah how we love to see our shadow...Thank goodness summer eventually comes!

Always Adventures and Always Making New Friends!!!

2011-02-09T05:13:00.000-08:00

Recently my mom needed to find a safe, warm, loving place for me to have a sleepover, because she and her friends had a film festival thingy to go to in Seattle, and pups had to stay home.

So my mom was calling around all over the place to find a puppy place that pups could spend the night. All she found were places with cages! And she found out that I was a little tiny bit overdue for my every-3-years Rabies vaccination. My mom is not a big huge fan of having me go through things I might not have to for the sake of western medicine and opts for holistic health care whenever possible (see her posts about our Hawthrorne Vets!) but Rabies is required by law, so off to get the Rabies we went...

As much as I love my amazing doctor I didn't want to have any more anything done after my teeth cleaning recently!! But it went just fine. My mom is a bit of a wimp, though. She had one of the vet assistants come in and hold me while Dr. Yale administered the shot.

My mom found this lovely lady and her family in Seattle through a friend of a friend offering a warm cozy place for pups to camp out for the night!! I could not believe my luck!! I got to go stay with a big sweet pup called Riggs, and Bridit, her husband and their two super fun kids who played with me for hours and wore me out! (here's a picture Bridgit sent my mom of me zonked out!)
My mom made a really cool video of her and her friends' trip to Seattle, she loves taking pictures you can see it here: http://www.youtube.com/littlemississues#p/u/0/i3RuxgXMQE8

I love bumping into a group of kids in the park!!! My mom says "kids" and I just run for 'em! Kids like to cuddle and they seem to giggle a lot when they get to pet me! I take all the lovin' I can find!!

and here's the big, the bold, the beautiful Katey, who recently saved Jeff here from these two bullies attacking him in our park here...She's our hero!

Always fun making new friends! and My mom is a little behind on posthing but has more photos and a really cute video of me and all my friends is in the works! So come back soon!

xoxoxo

Michaelangelo

In The Company of Dogs

2011-01-19T10:00:00.000-08:00

I LOVE this catalog! I get them in the mail and look at them online...they really have some great things for dogs!! Check them out!! In the Company of Dogs has things you wouldn't believe! From the usual, but better! From cool, different types of leashes, bedding, car & traveling seats and things to agility kits, treadmills, all kinds of stuff!

the AMAZING Jack Russell on Animal Planet!!

2011-01-18T08:31:00.000-08:00

the People and Pups We Meet

2011-01-17T08:18:00.001-08:00

Michaelangelo and I didn't get much excercise yesterday, since it poured rain for it's entirety.

And apart from falling asleep on the couch at 6:30 pm and waking up at 3am, not much going on around here!!

This morning, since we were awake very early, we got out on an early walk as well. I could tell he needed it, and I certainly needed it. And shock of all shockers!! The ground was relatively dry at 7:30am...so we made our way round the block in the quiet sleepy neighborhood....

As little horses often do, they pull you where THEY want to go, regardless of what it is YOU were thinking...YOU, you know, the PACK LEADER?!?! My little horse thinks he runs things out on our walks. And to be honest with you, sometimes? He does!!

This morning he was DETERMINDED to get us to the park, but I thought it a little early yet, even if a little bit light already - after what we know happened some days ago at the park he loves to chase unsuspecting squirrels in!! So he ends up dragging me toward the park and I relent, thinking I'll steer him clear once we get upon it, we'll go the other way towards home.

As we were about to make that turn away from the park, Micahel sees a beautiful dog off in the distance, which I first thought was a smaller Irish Setter, with a silver haired lady in tow...So, I give him the go-ahead and off we ran to meet our new friends...

Mattie is unbelievably 16 years young!! Her grandma, Pat told me how Mattie was her daughters' dog, and her daughter died on Christmas day two years ago...My heart was immediately gripped for this woman, and tears sprang to my eyes...She said Mattie probably thought I was her daughter, Terri, who kind of looked like me in height and hair...At that point, watching beautiful Mattie jump and romp around like a little puppy, could not help but drop tears. They fell out of my eyes like an overflowing glass, and I said some little prayers for Mattie, and her grandma Pat. I told her how sorry I was to hear it and I also miss my father every day quite a lot of the day, so I sort of understand....and she said, "It's really hard, sometimes - moreso than others. I just get through 24 hours at a time."

We walked with them through the park and I shared with her to take care in and around the park and school as thugs are accosting people with fists and knives in the quiet dark of the morning. She agreed to pass on the warning to other people she knows come to the park as well. I told Pat I'd love to take her and Mattie's portrait, but sadly, did not exchange info with her. I just know that they are in my neighbhorhood. I was kicking myself wishing I'd carried some cards with me to give her, so she could contact me and I could perchance have the opportunity to visit with her and Mattie and make some lovely portraits of these two beautiful ladies...I cried all the way home.

My heart went out to her so much! I am crying even now, as I write this an hour later...I can't express how much I can feel for other people, and have agonized over the pain in the world. Pat and I agreed how much of a difference it makes to have a dog. Mattie took to me and stood happily glued to me for my loving hugs. I was thankful for meeting her today, and I know Michael enjoyed Mattie, too. To see that bounce and playful show of happiness to us, yeah, that sweet old Golden made our day...I so hope we see them again and I vow to start taking my photography cards - and my camera out on our walks with us for when we meet such beautiful folks that they must have be captured and remembered this beautiful forever...

notes: The beautiful Mattie pup. Here is where we are meeting and just starting our walk with Pat & Mattie. I'm sorry my voice is so loud and Pat's is so low.

Whole Food Recipe for Dogs

2011-01-09T05:56:00.001-08:00

This was given to us by friends we see at the dog park!

Michael currently gets baked chicken, sweet potatoes (really good for their skin & coat!), carrots and a bit of egg yellows along with a sprinkling of Innova dry food. I have always been concerned about the food that is put out there for dogs, and what people buy to feed their pets! This really came to light for me when I was hired to promote Eukanuba food and learned through their training more about dog foods. This has led me to add a lot of this information on this blog and finding other information that while sickened me ( like here, and what's "really" in the dog food), made me better equipped to decide if what I'm feeding my dog is worth the "savings" (the reason SO many people gave me for feeding their dog total CRAP when I was promoting Eukanuba). You can get some great information at the Whole Dog Journal and here is the Raw Dog Food Book to check out as well!

This blog actually started when Michaelangelo was having some severe reactions to flea bites. I didn't want to put the "frontlines" and all this on him, I thought it was dangerous! And my research shows IT IS! And a showdown with my vet - who only pushed steroids to treat Michael, then yelled at me when I dared question him about there being another way - led me to the Hawthrone Vet Clinic where Michael is treated at his visits with not only love, but herbal remedies and accupuncture if needed. Since we use Comfortis for flea control, Michaelangelo has never had another allergic reation where his skin turns brrrrright red and he scratches holes into his lovely soft skin!! I'm SO thankful I found my vet clinic, and urge you too, if you are not in a bigger city where this might be available to you to do your research and figure out how to help your pet be as healthy as possible for a long, loving life as your "kid"!

Some of my 'raw food friends' on facebook were discussing healthy raw diets for dogs, and has gotten me thinking about doing away altogether once and for all with any dry food for Michael. Our pup doc even said to just do away with it if possible.
*************************************************

DOGGIE MENU = 4 cups daily (this menu was based on a 65lb dog ADD 1 chewable childrens' vitamin every other day)

Here is the recipe:

4 cups rice
8 cups water
5 lbs. ground turkey
8 eggs
5 lbs shredded carrotts

Preheat oven to 325
Pam sprage large roaster pan
Mix rice - water - turkey - beaten eggs in roaster pan
Bake 1 hour then Stir well
Bake 1 hour more
Mix mixture with raw shredded carrots in big bowl

Freeze in daily portions or refridgerate for no more than 3 days!

Enjoy!

Thanks Lucille & Jerry!
WOOF!!

Beautiful Katy Pup Saves Owner from Knife Weilding Thugs!!!

2011-01-07T11:48:00.000-08:00

Michael and I like to visit with our park ranger whenever we see her... and we saw her today!! Today she told us that our park friend Katy, a gorgeous Golden Retriever actually helped save the life her owner after two men attacked her owner in the park at 7am!! One of the men punched her owner in the face, knocking him down to the ground, while the other pulled out a six inch blade and screamed for his money. Katy obviously sensed the danger, and jumped up and bit one of the men on their behinds!!! Then went for his face! Katy's owner-dad pulled her off of the men and they ran off, leaving them both - thankfully - unharmed!!

This has given me something to think about, as I am always on alert while walking, I'm super alert when it's dark and we of course don't go inside the park at dark... Anyway, here is Katy, the beautiful Golden who saved her dad from harm! And here is our park ranger feeding one of her squirrel friends by hand!! Be extra careful out there!!!!

Wintertime Fun on Mt. St. Helens!

2011-01-06T06:17:00.000-08:00

Michaelangelo loves to travel and got to go to Mt. St. Helens back in March of 2010! Now that's not really winter anymore, but we were in a winter park for snow hiking and playing! And yes, we had fun! Michael appreciates snow much, much more than cold rain, so you can see his glee at being a snow pup!

Warhol Pup!!

2010-12-18T14:21:00.000-08:00

Now that is such a handsome pup I had to make some works of art out of his fabulous portrait! Is that a handsome pup or what?

Being the true Jack Russell that he is, Michaelangelo is an undercover pup and sometimes I catch him with his nose or his toes sticking out from under the covers!!

Get Your Dog's Teeth Cleaned!!!

2010-12-10T06:01:00.000-08:00

I've always been a pretty conscientious pet owner, especially with my Michaelangelo, and it's gotten more so over time as I researched more and more and learned what my alternatives were for his care, from the food I feed him, to the vets I chose to use. I used to clean his teeth really regularly...then I got really slackey about it and then suddenly realized, hey! These teeth are looking a little narley!! I started back on the brushing track again, but by this time, and at his age, which is believed to be around 7 - 7.5 years - yeah, it was time to go get them cleaned "for reals"!!

Last year or half-so ago, I had a gal come to my home and clean Michaelangelo's teeth right here on my living room floor without the high cost of the actual office visit. It was still $150. I found her card at my vet's clinic and talked to them briefly about it. I decided to check her out and put off the "real" cleaning as long as possible. She came out, got Michael into her with a couple of yummy organic pup treats, then managed to swaddle him in a pup-sized blanket and clean those puppy pegs! Like, actually scraping on his teeth (she is a trained dental assistant and somehow she got into working on dogs) I guess it worked for that time, but yeah, it was now time, I could see from really inspecting those back canine molars that the proper Pup Doctor took a proper look-see for the proper assessment of the puppy pegs!!!

Well, had the pre-op blood work done last week and he's as fit as a horse! Strong, sturdy, happy, could stand to lose maybe one pound, trim up a teeeensey weeeensey right here! as the doctor gripped his little waist...I laughed out loud, as I somehow knew that would be the only thing the doctor said about my handsome Jack Russell! I explained our walk time gets cut down by about half during the rainy, cold months of winter, Michael could do without being cold and wet, and told him how he sits happily to be blow-dried. He laughed out loud then too and said it's true for many of the vet's animals! The walking part, not the hair dryer part! Then my mind went to that "Doggie Treadmill" I found in an everything-and-anything-ridiculous-you-could-ever-dream-up-for-your-dog catalog and then I laughed out loud again as I quickly envisioned Michael and I on treadmills side by side...I swear, he and I are destined to spend our winters walking Venice Beach....

I had to make the appointment out a few days, until Thursday of this week...I get nervous leading up to when I am ever going to be put under anestheisia - just knowing that for anyone - human or animal alike - it's a risk. So I kept blocking out the scary things that kept trying to creep into my mind, and I just kept singing about how fresh and so clean his teeth were gonna be. I'm sure he was like, "Mom, you are faaalliiipppiiin OUT!" I do wonder what he thinks, but I DO know that he loves me!

I waited occasionally anxiously - even though I was keeping busy with projects - for the vets assistant to call me to let me know how he was doing. I did not hear from them so I knew it was good news that he needed no extractions! Thank god for that! Can you imagine a pup's tooth having to come out?! Bless the pup, he has two front teeth missing due to a certain monster that was in my life for a little while - the horrifying details of which I won't talk about now...I did get a call and found that Michael has a peridontal disease and his gums receeding a little bit, and at what we guess is about 7 years or so of age, it's a bit early for that. So, he's on some herbals for this week, and I have a little gelly concoction to put on his gums for a week or so as well...And as soon as the swelling goes down, we will get back to our regular peggy brushings, the vet said it does help....but there still comes a time when they need to go in and have it all properly done, under anesthesia. I'm really glad I went in and had this done, regardless that I'm broke and had to do it on credit. I'd rather be working on his need -and this one is just as important as any other - and keeping him with his teeth till he's an old, old man!!

Brush your animals teeth, peeps and get them cleaned when they need it! You can get some natural paste at the cool pet places, like Portland Pet Supply on Hawthorne. Could save your pets teeth and avoid other health problems that could be worse, and very expensive!!

And by the way, I LOVE our doctors at the Hawthorne Veteranary Clinic! They ROCK and Michael really loves Dr. Yale! Check them out, they are holistic, and Michael had accupuncture also while he was there! Holistic health for your pet is COOL and will prolong their life!

Pups that Like to Dress Up!

2010-09-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

Hey! Do you ever dress up your pup?! I do!! And guess what?!?! He likes it!

I don't believe hats are fun for him for too long, he does funny little sideways walking and backwards scooting which seems funny for a few seconds, but it makes me think I'd better get that off him! Michaelanelo has a super cute "Little Devil" costume with a little disco in it, and he's had it for a couple years, he's worn it for a total of about a half hour! lol! We wore it to an animal Halloween party which he was most popular at! And then for photos! It's early yet for Halloween, but once in a while, can't resist!

Some people come up with some pretty creative and funny costumes for their pets!! If you know anyone that does, or if you have some cute pictures of your animal dressed for Halloween, please send them to me at pmichelletaylor@gmail.com and I'll put them in my little "Dress Up Your Pup" video I'm already started on! Thanks, I'll look forward to seeing your photos!!

Until then = have fun getting ready to have fun at Halloween! ; )
xo

Hanging Out, Having Fun!!

2010-09-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

We hope everyone has had a fun summer wherever you are! We in the Northwest have had a kind of weird off and on summer, but we are having the most beautiful Indian Summer! Even though it's been gorgeous & warm outside, the leaves are changing, falling and the mornings can be pretty chilly! It's funny that we are meeting more pups than ever out on our walks here lately!

Michaelangelo is defiitely a sun-loving, warmth-loving animal! We both seem to be much happier when it's warm & sunny! When the winter finally rolls round the rainy Pacific NW, we will be getting a little bit less walk-time, as sometimes I actually have to carry him OUT of the house to GET the walk in, whereas in the summer, I have to carry him out of the park and force us back home!

I found the coolest rain suits for pups and hope to be able to get one for Michael very soon! It's great for pups that live in really wet climates, or that maybe have a shedding issue! They are a bit spendy, but look really cool! I will review it when we finally get one here soon! Made right here in Oregon!

In the mean time, hope you're getting out there, getting excercise, and enjoying yourselves!

Till next time!!

xox

People Do the COOLEST STUFF with their Pets!!!

2010-05-23T08:47:00.000-07:00

SOME PEOPLE ARE SSSSOOoooOOOOooo COOOOOOOOOL!

I was doing a little googling about "make your own dog bike basket" or something to that effect, to see if I could find any examples of people making their own cool baskets and not having to pay a hundred bucks for some snazzy thing from the pet store. I found THIS amazing woman, Kathy Schubert and her Miniature Schnauzer, Joey, (here is her home page, showing her as Elvis, and all their travels and fun around the world!!!) who were famous for traveling around to all kinds of biking events together! Check this OUT! Joey even got to go to FRANCE!!! Joey passed away in April 2009, but obviously lived a happy and adventurous life with her obviously happy, loving owner. I'm so inspired sometimes....and she even gives instruction to put together the cute basket AND the doggie HELMET her Joey went biking all over the world in!! I can't wait to make one for Michaelangelo!

http://www.kangarooconnection.com/kathys_new_personal_page.htm

I'm setting out to set up a basket like this and of course the helmet for pup! I will of course post when we're finished!!

Happy Trails! (Hopefully summer will come to the NW this year!)

Here are some other really cool, crazy, amazing cargo bike conversions that I found as well!

Summer's Coming!!!!

2010-04-27T10:28:00.000-07:00

Michaelangelo and I have yet to try scuba diving....but we really really want to!

And we can't wait! Our favorite time of the year to be out and about getting way more excercise than we do in the winter, that's for sure...I've come across some fun & useful doggie items and wanted to share our 'wish list' and the links, in case you find them helpful too!

I really like riding my bike in the summer, but find it's difficult to ride my bike and have Michael run along side....I have always wanted a little bike basket or something for him, and as he weighs in right at 20 pounds, this little bike seat would be perfect and I already have a back fender thingy across the back tire...I think I might need a fender though, also....under that to keep things cleaner...Hhhhmm.....I was thinking how fun it would be to put the bike rack on this summer and take the bike and Michael for rides out on the paths round and about....

Super Cool! Pet Rider Bicycle Seat!!

Paws Abord Pet Life Vest Jacket

K9 Top Coat Artic Fleece Bodysuit

Dog Back Pack Carrier & Car Seat (in black!)

Mending......

2010-03-19T08:03:00.000-07:00

I woke up on Saturday morning about 2:00am....I had been watching tv/sleeping on the couch for hours...The pup was asleep on his little bed the last time my eyes were open....Now he is not there....I get up to go potty and look for him, thinking it's awfully strange, he lately stays in one place....I went around the house, not seeing him....I went to the back door, figuring the boyfriend must have let him out for a potty, and I figured I'd find him shivering under the picnic table....

Still I don't see him, and he is not coming to my call...I step out on the deck go down the steps and peer around the corner to the gate area, making sure it's shut....I see him cowering in the corner...by the fence....sitting, shivering...I call him again, he just won't move...I go change out of my house slippers and put on a pair of shoes...I go over to where he is and he tries to get up and walk but it's obvious he can't really...Immediately I go into a state of andrenaline panic, rushing through my veins, I see now blood on his mouth and he's shaking so badly, he's almost convulsing...I don't remember alot, but I got him inside the house, I remember him crying out when I went to pick him up...I feel sick and faint, but know I have to get him inside safe and figure out his damage...I get him to the tub, and put him in, he stands there waiting patiently with a very sad look on his face....I see that he's missing two teeth in the front, and his belly has an abrasion there...I wash him gently as possible, his paws dirty dirty muddy and there's some black something on his back....what is that? And a big spot of blood, which the boyfriend was saying was his, from the gash on his hand that he got whilest working on the RV...I remember him getting that....I'm sort of spinning in my head about HOW DID THIS HAPPEN???? and WHAT THE BLEEEEEEEEEP HAPPENED TO MY DOG???????

Thankfully there is a 24 hour vet clinic less than a mile from my house, I bundled Michael up in a towel and went there directly....I told them what I knew, and they took him in back, and I started really shaking and spinning, just kind of in shock of what I was thinking....anyway...

I'm going to skip some other parts of that story....But the good part is that he seems to be doing "ok" other than his left food/leg area is still causing him to limp and hop around, favoring it. When we went on the hike, he amazingly went all over the place just fine....After the walk, he was limping and favoring the leg again....Hhhhmm. I think we need to go back to the vets for a check up. And we need to go out our vet anyway, the fabulous Hawthorne Vet Clinic in Portland.

Beautiful Autumn Days....

2009-12-01T08:42:00.000-08:00

We've been particularly blessed with lovely weather here in the Northwest this autumn! The skies are blue usually after a foggy, chilly morning...This was one day in particular that was sunny & very breezy. Beautiful. We love to walk on these days!!

Hope all our pals are happy & well! xoxoxo

Been Way Too Long!!!

2009-09-17T07:02:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been SO LONG since I posted on Michaels Dog Blog!! Almost a year!!! That's crazy! I guess I took a break from all of my blogs - there was A LOT of stuff going on last year, which carried over into THIS year, and I'm now getting back on track with some of the fun things in my life...

We've been doing good! Michael especially! Hours and hours each summer day, spent outside on our deck in the back yard, chasing teasing squirrels around and around and up the trees...We do our usual walks and adventures...We're ALWAYS up for some fun & adventure....

The other GREAT news is that this year I discovered COMFORTIS at our holistic vets!! I have never been so happy to find a vet! These people are the bomb! Michael has not had ONE FLEA on him this year, so all that misery we suffered before - is now GONE with Comfortis...It's a natural flea remedy and will not hurt your animal. They make it for kitties too...Check out the natural way to keep fleas off your dog and not poisioning them slowly with pesticides!!

Michaelangelo got to go to a "play date" with a bunch of other Jack Russells, put on by a woman who has a ton of acreage AND a bunch of rowdy JR's!! We had a blast chasing lures, ratting in the hay cages, but we need a little practice on the go-to-ground aspect! Michael refused to stay in the tunnels, just KNOWING he could just go right over there where the rat is!!! haha, it was funny....He did pretty good on the lure racing, though at the end, he veered off course, again - Michael's pretty clever, and "Hey? Why run all the way over there, when I can plainly SEE the "bunny" is right here?!" Yes, we do need a little more practice!!

Hope everyone & all their pups are happy & well...We hope you had a great summer!

Stay tuned!!! More soon!

xoxox Michael & his mom

Night Time Hiking at the of Start of Autumn........

2008-09-28T08:25:00.000-07:00

It's so hard to believe that summer went as quickly as it did....
Unfortunately, I missed a lot of it because I was shrouded in a grief process after my father passed on May 20th....
Been keeping busy though, with house projects, making things nice and pretty....Upgrading things for possibly selling up next year and moving on....or??? Keeping it, renting it out and going off on a little sailing and scuba diving winter adventure with T....
HHHHHhmmmmmmmm......Who knows what adventures might be around the corner???
The Big T has been working on some training with Michaelangelo....He also spoils him with the real food a good deal, and now he is deciding that he will cook raw food for Michaelangelo...
Michael now responds when T points him "out" of the kitchen, so that's good....
Now Michael sleeps his nights on the living room couch under many puppy blankets...It was tough at first, Michael would come to the hall door and scratch....I would have to get up and take him back to the couch and go back to bed and do this two, three times a night....
Now, I'm happy to report he will spend the whole night on the couch, unless he is hearing a bunch of moving around in the middle of the night (me or T going to the loo, for example).....
So, our sleep is getting better.....
Nightfall comes much quicker now....We started out on a little walk in daylight at our local park and 15 minutes later it was dark! It was a fun little adventure....I just have to remember to adjust my time with our evening walks.....
I hope everyone has had a nice beginning to their fall....It is a fun time and my favorite time up to Halloweeen!

Dog Days of Summer

2008-09-13T07:08:00.000-07:00

Happy September Friends! I can't believe how fast summer has been flying by!!! We have been keeping pretty busy round here this summer...Home improving projects...

and as always, of course, hunting.......

Being the mascot and general side - kick while keeping the troops in line....

I'm also into inspecting the jobs to make sure they're getting done right......

Always looking for the next adventure.....

We hope you enjoy the rest of your summer!

Scary Near Misses - Aggressive Dog Trauma

2008-08-14T07:09:00.000-07:00

Michaelangelo as you know - is an Adventuredog, we like to get out there and enjoy the great outdoors!! We love to meet other dogs on our walks too! We always seem to make fabulous new friends.......

Michael says, "Dogs of all ages and breeds are my freinds! I love EVERYONE!!! I love little babies too, who are just intrigued by me!!! Ruby Mae, for instance just adores me!!! You may have seen us hanging out together before!!! "

************************************************************************************

I'm hesitant to post this post but....It's really been bothering me and....So I have to rant a little....

The other day, Michael and I had just gone out for his afternoon break mini-walk down the block and back...When I think back about it, I'm really thankful that I let him guide sometimes...He wanted to cross the street to start the walk, and so we did....Thankfully, we did....I like to think that dogs know more than we do - that they can sense more than we can....and...essentially would do what they could to keep us from harm......

About two houses down, on our side of the street (meaning the side we live on).....there is an aggressive dog that always runs to the fence with the snarliest i'm-gonna-rip-your-face-off-if-I-get-hold-of-you hysterical Cujo-style fence attack. Usually Michael wants to cross the street BEFORE we get to that dog's fenced yard - then we cross BACK again to get to our house....

Well, this dog - and I saw all of this happen - as if in slow motion - the dog got out of the gate and came tearing around that gate tearing holes in concrete to get to us --

I was watching in horror - this dog on it's terror trail hell bent to get to us in a HURRY - and me picking up Michaelangleo with one hand to throw him over the fence we were walking past and prepare to jump it myself before the dog got to us --

But as I rushed to drop Michaelangelo on the other side of that fence to safety, I saw this dog run blindly right into a passing van -- I saw it, I heard the dog cry out....I found myself screaming "NNNnooooooooo!" and "Help!!" hoping the owner would quickly figure out what was happening -- and she did -- she came running out -- shocked and wondering - crying out "What happened???!!" as I nearly passed out from the sheer rush of adrenaline coursing through my veins....I was standing there holding Michael, shaking, breathing hard, I was scared, I was totally freaked out.....I started running for home.....

We don't walk that way anymore....We never liked walking that way anyway....Wow, that was seriously traumatic. And that is the third time we have been rushed by a loose dog like that in our neighborhood. I'm absolutely terrified each time something like this happens....My mind quickly takes me back to my mother's Pomeranian getting mauled right in front of me, my mother, and my son - at the time 5 . As we tried everything from throwing rocks, hitting the attacking dog with toys, (we were PLAYING in our FRONT YARD!!!!!) we watched and screamed in horror the German Sheppard attacked and left our dog, Wendy Sascha with a broken back and having to be put to sleep. The trauma, I cannot express to you. My son was terrified of dogs for years after that. We all had nightmares for months about rapid dogs....I mean...It left a lasting mark on my mind, ok? And I won't go into further details of what I had to go through with that incident....Court with the owners, I mean. Damn.

So...the neighbor dog that was -- from where I was standing with my dog - out for blood -- was picked up from the street by it's owner and carried off to the vet down the road I'd imagine. She was sort of laying down on the street, but with her head up, so I don't know what state the dog is in...I haven't talked to the owner. I still have felt bad for her with her dog getting hit like that - but what is UP with dogs who act like they want to KILL people? I personally could not live with an animal with those issues, and I wonder why people aren't more careful.... I also wince when I think of what might have happened to Michael and me if that dog had gotten to us. If we had not crossed the street - we would have been right there, with no where to run...It would have been horrible, I'm sure of it. Oh, God, I shudder to think.....

I think I need to start carrying a bat or something with me when we walk. I'm paranoid and nervous when we walk around here. I find that getting in the car and driving to other parks and areas is much more satisfying to both of us. OH and isn't it STRANGE how Michael has to be practically DRAGGED or carried off our property to go for walks??? Isn't that strange, YET when we go other places, he is tearing the window out wanting out of the car.....HHHhhmmmm.....

In any case. This is a scary subject. Once, in the fall, a Pit Bull got out of his owner's hands as they were getting out of their car and the dog came charging, barking at me and Michael, I just picked him up and held him up over my head, while screaming to the owner, "Please HELP ME! STOP YOUR DOG!!!" I thought I was going to die. I can't help but being freaked out with a large barking animal comes running at us....And I have nothing against Pit Bulls, my son has a full blooded Pit, incredibly loving animal, wouldn't hurt a flea, and a Pit-Pointer mix, so...it's ANY dog off it's leash unless it's SO SO SO docile, you know and wouldn't rush people like that. I don't know where I'm standing on this issue right now, but I tell you what, if your dog comes running with teeth bared at me and MY baby, watch out! I'm swinging!!!

Just Hangin' Around Being Beautiful......

2008-08-05T11:37:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's the doggie days of summer....Been out hiking a bit....playing with my frisbee kong....meeting tons of fabulous other doggies....Here I am hanging out my mamma's bedroom window, watching the squirrleys teasing me from the trees....Darn! I wish I could jump into the tree and catch him......

We hope you're having a fabulous fun summer!!!

Please Read! Be Aware!

2008-08-03T07:40:00.001-07:00

My blogger friend Jan writes some funny and also unsettling things - yet things we need to know - please read her blog regarding Peta. In case I haven't mentioned it enough.....

Out and About Making Friends

2008-07-20T07:59:00.000-07:00

Out and about in the Pearl recently, we met a puppy Jack Russell! Michael loves making new friends, even jumpin, bitin little puppies!!

Beauty Jack hangin' out enjoyin' a summer afternoon walk around downtown...

Traveling Adventuredog!!

2008-07-12T06:47:00.000-07:00

Every summer my mom and I do a big event selling our wares and this year Michaelangelo got to come and be there with me all day! All weekend! Yeah! We have a nice little set up here, where he can go hide and be quiet in his little adventuredog travel-hut! Here, Michael is taking a break from all the visiting he's been doing! More pix soon!

Observation Journal for new remedies

2008-06-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

Day 1 Saturday June 27th:
Visit with our fabulous new vet. An hour consultation ending with 20 minutes acupuncture.
For dinner, started with new herbs mixed in his food.
Michael did not eat his dinner.

Day 2 Sunday June 28th:
Start the day with fresh application of Front Line.
Added some real chicken and flax seed oil and re-mixed his dinner from last night.
Breakfast devoured.
Added some Dr. Ackerman's spray to his hind quarters in afternoon.

Day 3 Monday June 29th:
Am: breakfast: kibble with herbs, flax seed oil and some chicken diced in. Michael ate all but a few bites.
pm: Michael ate his dinner, loves the added real chicken and carrotts and that helps to get the herbs down him that is being mixed in.

Day 4 Tuesday June 30: Doing well on food, herbs

Day5 Wednesday July 1st: eating all food with herbs, still scratching.

On the constant check with him for fleas. Have found a few here and there....

Day 6 Thursday July 2nd: Woke several times during the night michael itching scratching like crazy! found fleas each time I checked him. Upon waking michael's tummy area was BRIGHT red, pink and obviously he'd been scratching all night long....Since waking I have found EIGHT fleas on him, and I am in panic state right now. Part of this problem relates to having two inside cats that get taken out every day to "play" then brought back in. My room mate is from Colorado, where apparently they don't have fleas (how was I to know that?) and she knew not what the flea issue would be like. However, I did tell her weeks ago to get the Frontline, etc, going and had she done that at that time, we might not have quite this problem right now. So, I'm not terribly unhappy having just spent a whole bunch of money I don't really have to help him and he's being totally bombarded with fleas now.

am food: ate up everything with herbs. HOW ARE HERBS SUPPOSED TO WORK WHEN I CAN'T GET RID OF THE FLEAS?!?!?!?!?

Day 7 Friday July 3rd: Same as usual.

Day 8 Saturday July 4th: The issue of fleas and Michael's scratching is becoming constant. he is eating his herbs in his meals. loves having the wet food mixed in with the dry. Not doing too much, I don't want him to gain a bunch of weight.

Day 9 Sunday July 5th: Michael's belly is red, raw, and horrifying. I am applying aloe very (100% natural, no additives) to soothe the raw belly areas....He is eating his food with herbs morning and night. He is liking a little kibble mid day now....asking for it.....

Day 10 Monday July 6th: am: had dry food with some wet food added with herbs.
Added dose of Frontline as flea situation is too much. he can't possibly make progress under these circumstances. I'm disgusted, let down and beside myself over this situation. it's keeping me from getting my work done at the computer because I have to sit by Michael's side all day to keep him from scratching himself any more raw than he already is. It's very upsetting. Will call to Dr. tomorrow morning as soon as the clinic opens.

Things get hellacious for a couple of days where I am frequently in tears over it all......

Day 12 Tuesday July 8th: The holistic vet prescibes a natural hydrocortizone and I run down there and pick it up. Also Dr. says to give him some benedryl.

12:00 Noon: Administer Hydrocortizone and Benedryl a little while later. Later in the day Michael has totally chilled out on the scratching!

Day 13 Wednesday July 9th: Breakfast: Herbs, both pills @ 7am

Scratching like mad from about 5am - 7am I get up two or three times to search for the )_@)@(#*$()%)()( culprit, but cannot get my eyes open enough to find the bugger......

Day 14 Thursday July 10th: Belly looks "normal" no pink at all!!! No scratching!!

Day 15 Friday July 11th: Breakfast Herbs, natural hydrocort. pill

Mid Day: gave Benedryl as Michael was starting to scratch

Day 16 Saturday July 12th: Scratching and licking in the early morning hours....

Breakfast: herbs & both pills
midday at show: Michael doing good, having great day visiting with everyone at the show. ate light snack in afternoon.
Dinner at 7p
Doing good, hardly any scratching!

Day 17 Sunday July 13: Doing good at the show. Starting to scratch a little bit.
am Breakfast: Last of the herbs. 1 natural hydrocort. pill. No benedryl
pm Home very late after show. Michael scarfed down his dinner innova kibble & real chicken off the bone.

Day 18 Monday July 14th: Starting to scratch. Checking for fleas. Pulled off FOUR fleas!
Breakfast: Hydrocort pill. No benedryl

Michael had a really messed up tummy day! Super loose had to go several times. poor baby. yucky tummy.

PM dinner: dry kibble only

Day 19 Tuesday July 15th: Breakfast with a tiny bit of innova wet just to get down hydrocort pill.
Bowels loose
Called vet took sample to them by 6pm. Should hear back tomorrow morning.

Day 20 Weds July 16th: very light breakfast, no pills, no tummy movement.
very light dinner. finally late in day bowel movement, appears mostly normal.
No call from vets regarding stool results.

Day 21 Thursday July 17th:
Michael scratching all night. Got up at 1:30 am to give him a benedryl.
7am light dry kibble with a sprinkle of brewers. Gave hydrocort pill
Bowels loose again. No word from vet as of 8:45am
Called vet in afternoon. Negative result in stool test. He should be fine. Dr. thinks my stress level is affecting Michaelangelo. (My stress level has been higher than I can ever remember it being. I feel sick in my stomach a lot of the time.) Dr. suggests Sweet Potato or Yams blended and added to his food. MMMMMmmm. I love sweet potato.
Went to the beach for afternoon meditation near sunset. We took lots of happy pictures cuddling on the beach.
PM Dinner: Dry Innova kibble.
9:30pm Benedryl. Tummy pink. Checkin' for fleas.

Day 22 Friday July 18: Still having tummy problems. Itchy! Red Tummy! NOT HAPPY!
Dry kibble & brewers yeast
am hydrocort pill

Day 23 Saturday July 19th:
benedryl & hydrocort pills
dry kibble drizzled with flax seed oil
NORMAL POOPS!!

pm dry kibble with baked organic sweet potato slices from Trader Joes
normal poops!!
10:30pm red itchy gave benedryl

Day 24 Sunday July 20th:
am: hydro cort pill
dry kibble with warmed sweet potato LOVES LOVES LOVES sweet potato!
pm: dry kibble with sweet potato!

Day 25 Monday July 21st:
am: hyrdo pill, dry kibble & sweet potato. very itchy, scratching....
pm:

Getting What We Need for Summer Allergies....

2008-06-28T12:38:00.000-07:00

Over the 4th of July holiday, we'll be celebrating Michaelangelo's birthday! I don't know when he was really born, but that is the time that he came into my life. This is the beginning of our 4rd year together - he was found wandering alone on July 4th, 2005.

As much as we love summer, we don't love the seasonal allergy issues it brings Michael. He has what has been called a flea bite dermatitis. So, just one flea bite, and he'll turn pink and scratch himself a raw spot...It's painful for me to know he is so uncomfortable. I have been wanting to find a way to deal with this issue without the use of the prescribed steroids...Anyone who knows me or has read this blog in the past knows how I feel about putting chemicals on my babycakes! And after a very unproductive visit with our vet last year, I vowed I would find someone who would listen to me and take my thoughts seriously about the health and longevity of my dog, and help me find a way to help him without spraying chemicals that are known to cause other very serious problems with long-term use. And since I have known him long enough to know that the minute the heat sets in and the fleas come out of hibernation, there is going to be an issue. He does get however, Frontline once per month, and I supplement combating fleas with Dr. Ackerman's Natural Botanical remedy which has nothing but herbs in it.

And FINALLY ! after much research I have found our new vet clinic!!
Michael just about jumped into his new doctor's arms, we thought she might have treats in her pocket, but she did not! He knows good people when he smells them, and even though she eventually was sticking some acupuncture needles in him, he left happy and wagging....

Yes, you read me right! Michaelangelo had ACUPUNCTURE! I had never thought that would be something we would do for his doggie allergies! But, they have a REAL holistic approach and also promote raw diet for dogs, which I'll be looking into further. Right now, Michael is eating and loving Innova for dogs. We'll see about the raw diet later this summer. For now, I'm focusing on getting his allergic issue under control. In addition to having had acupuncture, he is on some herbal stuff as well, which I will mix into his food. So! Thus begins my observation journal for Michael again, and we'll talk with the vet in two weeks and see what is happening! I hope this is going to help! I'm definitely hopeful!

Here is some info that might also be helpful in regards to combating fleas this summer!!
Let me know if any of you have had similar experiences and also what your results are!

HAPPY SUMMER EVERYONE!!!!

No Day is Complete without Friends.......

2008-06-26T14:42:00.000-07:00

Look at this cutie!!!!
Sylvia found her new baby at the Animal Shelter in Troutdale....
She and this little Schnauzer really connected and he is going home today!!! Michaelangelo is super excited about his new buddy he'll be hiking and having adventures with this summer!!!!
Yaaaaaay! What's his name, Sylvie????

Chico LOVES Michael! and Michael LOVES Chico, too!!

Beautiful Ruby Loves Micheal too. I wonder if she is going to be a vet someday...

Oh my....

2008-06-20T11:18:00.001-07:00

Doggie Porn!!!

Loving this Summer Weather!!

2008-06-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

Of course we are out on adventures every day, and even more so now that summer is starting to make its way to the NW....

This morning on our walk, we came across a little white rabbit hanging out in the yard of a little apartment complex and of course, Michaelangelo was ON and very interested.....

Cute little bunny, bunny......

We bump into our neighbors at the park in the mornings.....
Rick loves to meet up with his girlfriend Blondie...

Michael & Alysha after a long day of play......

Michael and Blue

2008-05-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Needed Some Giggles....

2008-05-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

This is where I started my day and I'm glad I did. We really need to know about these mind games dogs play with humans..I really have been needing some giggles, and I got them at Jan's Poodle and Dog Blog!! Have fun and a giggle with your morning coffee!

Oh and for the other Jack Russell fanatics, here is a story about a Jack in York, England! He takes the bus to the pub!!! I bet Michaelangelo would like hanging out with Ratty!!

Michael in Super - Stealth Hunting Mode

2008-05-26T21:56:00.001-07:00

Michael and his love for the squirrel...It's always a fun little adventure going to the park!!

Getting Out and About.....

2008-05-26T14:40:00.000-07:00

We had some absolutely wonderful summer weather for just a few days last week and we quickly took advantage of that wonderful weather by having a yard sale whilest my house-mate Amanda and I are on a clean out purge process of our individual belongings.....

Michael had a fun day being the Official Yard Sale Mascot and Greeter....everyone was happy to see Michael and got a smile from visiting.....

Where ever we go, Michael's day is not complete until he gets to make some new friends. Here Michael makes friends with some "Parisian Jacks".
Michael loves people watching. He's happy to sit and just watch the world go by. No hurry, no worry....Just Zen Michael..........
Michael loves the downtown life too, here he gets to hang out at his Aunty Sylvie's place with mom and Rick.

Sometimes looks can be deceiving. As we were walking by these people outside of this pub, this little JRT lookin doggie looked really nice like he was going to say hello, when suddenly he lunged angrily like a wild dog, and I let out a scream pulling Michael up into my arms with one fell swoop! Wow, my heart was beating in my throat for about a quarter hour after that.....yikes! watch out! It's a Mini -CUJO!

Keeping Pretty Busy as Spring Finally Arrives!!!

2008-05-05T12:23:00.000-07:00

HI Everybody!!! Now that spring seems to have more properly arrived to the great northwest, we are out on the hunt earlier and earlier every day, and staying out longer and longer! Mom is pretty worn out after our morning walks! I always know when she's done with my being on the hunt because she says she can't go any further - and that she needs a cup of coffee.....

When I'm not out on the squirrel hunt, I'm hanging out with my local pals, who all seem to be coming out after a long time hibernating indoors!

This is Angel, my girlfriend....(one of them, anyway!)
She is always so happy to see me!!

Sometimes mom takes her on a walk with us because Angel's dad walks real, real slow.....

A long day of out and about.....Finally, some quiet time and cluddling.....

2008-03-21T11:56:00.001-07:00

What's the Story?!?

2008-03-09T14:35:00.000-07:00

I can't tell you how many times people have come up to me and told me how much Michaelangelo makes them think of Wishbone! Me and my son watched Wishbone all the time, and he really wanted a Jack at the time, but it just never worked out that we got a dog when he was small....

Just strolling down memory lane, I found this Wishbone intro on youtube.....
Don't you just love youtube?!?!? We sure do!

That is One Happy Dog!!!

2008-03-05T08:34:00.001-08:00

Michael Getting Know the River.....

2008-03-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

Rx for the Wintertime Blues

2008-02-04T05:34:00.000-08:00

Michael peered excitedly out the front door for about 15 minutes on Sunday....I wondered what was going on outside to attract such attention from him....I went to peer out, and it was the sun, I was ecstatic to see the sun peeking past several dark clouds and several days of rain.... fluttering lightly on the ground through the trees!!! My eyes got so big, they almost popped out of my head!!! I ran to ready and we were out and about in no time, ready for adventure......

Please click on pix for an excellent view!!!

Here, Michael is being very tentative, but very excited, as he checks out the river water for the first time.......
This is Michael's FIRST TIME to play at the beach!!! Can you just SEE how happy he is? He is really one fun-lovin, happy dog! We love to travel around hiking and exploring! I could tell from his (nearly) non-stop excitement that he really loves this new place!!

Michael took his time tentatively exploring all of the different tactile experiences!! He LOVES the feel of sand under his feet and reacted and behaved much like when the snow fell in January 2006 - he went bananas running around and around really fast in circles!! It was pretty funny...

After a bunch of wild running around and general adventure-type stuff, meeting lots of other dogs, Michael stood in the same spot for the longest time just smelling the air that gently breezed all around us.....He seemed so at home, so happy, so serene.....it was so....nice for both of us!!!

We decided to go down to the beach!!! A friend of mine was going down to the river to try to get some air and go flying with his big kite!!! Sadly, he didn't have enough to get off of the ground, but we had fun watching him ready and he took Michaelangelo on one of his wild running sprees!

Michaelangelo went CRAZY for the beach! He was totally flippin out ! He LOVES the beach! I can't believe we haven't been going there before!! Well, now it's our new hang out. We both slept so well too........ It was a wonderful break for us, because lately it's been rain, rain, rain and MORE rain, for which Michael does not care!!! But this was a fabulous afternoon....Wow, we can't wait to go back!!! Next time, I'm bringin' the frisbee! Did you have some fun adventures this weekend??

Getting Ready for Some Travels & Adventure!!!

2008-01-29T19:55:00.000-08:00

Michael has a new little "Travel Hut" as it's so been named, a little place for him to chill and be quiet and sleep or play with his toys while we're traveling. It's a really neat little "Pet House" which was made for Bed, Bath & Beyond, so you could check there if you wanted a zip up or fold down type of travel kennel for a great price!!

Today we set it up so he could spend some time in it with his toys and bones. He seems quite ok with it, and I did zip it up with him inside it, and once he got the treat out of the bone, he wanted out! He just wants to chase down treats!! I tell ya one thing - this god, I mean dog LOVES to travel!!! More soon!!!

We Need to Know the Truth......

2008-01-24T10:33:00.000-08:00

I apologize in advance because this is pretty depressing information, however it is information YOU need to know. Please follow this link and read....

The following is fellow writer/blogger/dog maniac Jan's (of Poodle & dog blog) reply to my comment in regards to her story:

"Hi Michelle, I know so well the feeling. They raise $30 million, and get a lot of support from pet owners and celebrities who love their little doggies but don't realize that PETA is against pet ownership, even guide dogs and service dogs, because they think it is demeaning to dogs. Whatever that means. My dogs live better than I do.

Whenever I do a post on PETA, I get a lot of people who didn't know what they are about because the media shows them as animal experts or harmless kooks, but what they do to pets is evil. For example they will release show dogs from their cages so that they can run free--and get hit in traffic. They release animals from sanctuaries and laboratories so they can get killed in the wild. That sort of thing.

Just keep getting the word out and urge your readers not to support PETA or the Humane Society of the United States, but to support their local shelter or their local humane society and to do what they can to make it a no kill shelter.This book, Redemption, has really opened my eyes about what can be done for homeless pets. They don't have to be killed in shelters if the shelter is run right."

Dogs That Changed The World....

2008-01-22T16:37:00.000-08:00

I caught part of a fantastic program on Public Broadcasting about dogs!! Public Broadcasting usually repeats their programming throughout the month, so do check your local listings (which can be done from the Public Broadcasting site http://www.pbs.org/). Do try to catch one or more of the program, it's fascintating! Nature puts on some great programming!!

"NATURE's two-part special DOGS THAT CHANGED THE WORLD tells the epic story of the wolf's evolution, how "man's best friend" changed human society and how we in turn have radically transformed dogs. Part one, "The Rise of the Dog," airs Sunday, January 13 at 8 p.m. (ET) on PBS. Part two, "Dogs by Design," airs Sunday, January 20 at 8 p.m. (ET) on PBS (check local listings for both broadcasts)."

http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/dog/

Always Looking For Adventure!!!

2008-01-20T18:35:00.000-08:00

Even in our usually dreary Northwest winter, we get treated to the odd - day of sunshine! How overjoyed we are when this happens!! We load up and head out to our favorite park on a mountain and hike for at least an hour! We meet as many new friends as we can and just make it a great workout for the day!!! Many paths to explore - and they are exciting each time, no matter how many times we hiked them before!!

After some long hiking and adventures, I'm ready for a cuddly little nap.....I love to burrow in the blankets! And of course, mom likes to snuggle me up even more as though I'm in a cacoon!!!

My mom is a great way to cozy up and snooze. Here we are ending our day cuddling on the couch while momma reads her Jack Russel Book!!!

Hope you had a day of sun and adventure too!!!
xoxox
Michaelangelo & Mom

Dreaming of Summer Days...

2008-01-06T13:44:00.000-08:00

AAaaahhhh, we love and miss summer sooooo much around this time of the year....We live in the good old northwest, where the winters are long, cold and rainy! It's just not as much fun when you get all filthy dirty and soaking wet and practically have to have a bath each time you go for a walk!! Some days I just don't want to go out in the nasty weather!!!

Then some days we go all out and I get to run around in the mud like a crazy dog!!! Yeah, my maw let me do that today, and I had a bunch of fun and had a reaaaalllyyy nice hot bath when we got home, I got my hair dried with the hair dryer and I am now all happy and cuddly clean and fresh....I'm gonna take a nap and dream about summer....

MMMmmmmmmmm. Momma and I llllooovvveeeee those lazy summer days....Nappin in the sun........
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Most Unbelievable Jack Russell!!!

2007-12-30T10:23:00.000-08:00

Skateboard Dog

Add to My Profile | More Videos

Oh....MY...GAWD!!!!

Research Can Be Hard Work....

2007-12-09T06:50:00.001-08:00

In my on-going search for answers on a safe, healthy food/diet for my beautiful Jack Russell, Michaelangelo, I stumbled upon a page that might also be helpful to other animal owners. Have you ever heard of Wysong? Learn more here....

I would love to know what other Jack Russell and other breed owners are feeding their dogs, and if everyone is as concerned about what they are "really" getting as I am. (I personally don't want to eat anything that has any ingredients that have come from China....I don't want my dog eating anything from China either! I guess it's in the vitamin ingredients that supposedly "everyone" in the US gets in their store-bought vitamins. Even if it's "made in the USA", the ingredients, apparently, are all brought in from China. A little disconcerting to me.)

I have mentioned, Michael currently eats Blue Buffalo Dog Food, and he seems to really live it...I add Brewers Yeast and Flax Seed Oil to his food, which he LOVES! I just want to make sure I am giving him the best food for a long, long life with us...

Please give me feedback if you would about what you are feeding your babydog!!
Thanks and I hope everyone is doing well!!

Happy for Dry Days!!!

2007-12-08T15:04:00.001-08:00

We get much more exercise when it's not raining, don't we Michaelangelo??? We love those dry days, even though it's usually colder on dry days, it's alot more fun to go chasing baseballs when it's not raining!!!

Since the great NW is a really rainy place in winter, I only go out walking in rain boots! I have ruined countless shoes I adored walking in the rain with them. I Love my new winter walking boots! Can you see? PIRATE BOOTS! hehehehe.

Hope everyone is happy and well and having fun with the season!!

Finally on the Mend.....

2007-12-01T06:01:00.000-08:00

I caught a bug of some kind and have been sick in bed for an entire week!!! Ugh! Horrible! But you know what got me through it all? My loving babydog. He stayed with me the whole time! He chewed his bones at my feet, and just in general stayed by my side...

WOW!

2007-11-25T07:37:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I have managed to get to a LOT of projects around my house I wanted to do. One of my projects was my photos and my on line accounts. One of my places is flickr - and I happened to check on my Jack Russell group there, (I really wish I had checked it sooner! Now it's on my "daily check list") and I could not believe it - so many people responded to my question I put out there about "Itching Jacks" - I was wide eyed and blinking and realize what a super fabulous resource belonging to groups can be! How cool is this? Check it out here....

Also on some of my links I have gathered here on the sidebar, there is some great reference info there as well...I have been reading and finding a lot of great information and ideas about what others are finding successful with their Jacks!

And seeing as how so many people seem to use the benedryl, we are going to try it. I have given it to him a couple of times last year...I guess I just worry about putting chemicals into such a small little body and...what are the effects on them? All I really know is I want my babydog to be with me forrrreeeeevvvvvver and so...Anyway...I just love the power of feedback! Check out the Jack Russell photos too! So much cuteness in one place, it's unbelievable! We hope everyone is having a great holiday!!!
Oh hey! Check this out!!
November's Winning
Jack-of-the-Month!
It's Maximo the Surfing Dynamo!

To see more photos of Maximo click here!
WOW! I have GOT to get Michaelangelo in on some fun like this!!! YEAH!

Observation....

2007-11-22T08:30:00.000-08:00

Michaelangelo's blog originaly started because I needed to write down and observe my findings when we were using these products in the first place! I wanted to track the changes, if any....

That's what I'm doing now, too! (helping myself keep track!!)

Tuesday Nov. 20th: 7:30pm Went to (disastrous) vet appt.
Began antibiotic
Began Genesis Spray (2 x per day for 7 days)

Wednesday Nov. 21: Gave antibiotic in the morning (damn, then i looked again and it's meant to be 1 per 24 hours)
Morning Spray before walk
Evening Spray before walk. Upon inspection Michael's tummy is
a much lighter shade of pink!

Thursay Nov. 22: Gave antibotic @ 7am
Spray before morning walk. Rear end area looks better.
Tummy looks better

Friday November 23: Gave antibitotic @ 7:30
Spray before morning walk. Seemed to be scratching a lot this morning after he woke up. Tummy looks good, except where he was scratching most recently.

Saturday November 24: Spray before walk. Tummy looks MUCH better, it's actually looking WHITE!! Stills scratching some though...
Anti-biotic at 7:30am. Back area looking much much better. I still don't think he needed the antibiotics though and I hope it's ok. The boyfriend says finish out the entire prescription.
Evening spray. Also gave him a small spray of Frontline, as I did find two fleas on him yesterday. Unbelievable. God, I hate fleas. Really, really hate them....Gggrrrr.

Update...

2007-11-20T20:43:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty unhappy about my visit at the vets this evening...I'm still trying to wrap my mind around what went on in there, and I'm left thinking that I'm going to call tomorrow morning and talk with one of the gals I know there (I was hired to work there a year or so ago, but I turned it down) and let her know about my very disappointing visit.

Not only did I walk out of there paying much more than I should have, I felt hurried and rushed through the visit. I had never met that doctor before, and I'm not sure I want to meet her again - she totally talked down to me, "Did you READ the directions?" You would have to have heard the way she said it...anyway...$111.06 later, some antibiotics and a dermatologists' number. I felt basically thrown out and smacked in the face on the way out. I was just...I can't even explain it! That doctor was so not about to talk at any length with me about it. She sort of made me feel like an idiot for being one of these "loonies" who tries to live as chemical free as possible.

Sigh. In any event:

1. She (the so-called vet) said he has a skin allergy. To what she hasn't a clue. Could be a number of things. That is why I need to see the skin doctor.

2. She charged me $43.10 to shave my babydog's tail-end area, and "clean" the area.
I was staggered when I went from a $40 visit to suddenly $111!! I asked the receptionist, "Uuumm, where did the extra $70 come from ???" She too treated me like an idiot, with a look that said, "Oh, she's one of THOSE customers". I guess I'm crazy, but I thought that was a bit much to shave a 4x4 area on my dog's bum, and not even ask me first if that charge was ok with me. I knew they were going to shave the area, but I had no clue in the slightest I was about to be ripped off over it! My god, I don't even pay that much for my haircuts! Anyway, I just feel like, what just happened here???? Wow.

3. She said to spray the Genesis spray for immediate relief, that if I FOLLOWED the directions it would work. (You DID read the directions, didn't you?!?! Sigh.)

4. He's on antibiotics for a possible skin infection in the above-mentioned back-end area.

I guess I shouldn't feel so bad. I'll call the dermatologist and get some information about their visits, etc. I definitely want to get it figured out so my sweet babydog doesn't have to suffer allergies. Did I tell you that the vet told me, "It's not about YOU!" Yes, she really said that! I feel pretty deflated, and am considering I might need to find a different veterinarian.

Not Sure What To Do!!!

2007-11-20T12:52:00.001-08:00

I'm feeling pretty worried about Michaelangelo and his skin issue at the moment, and I can't wait any more for things to change! And, I guess from what I hear, the flea problem here in the NW was way past awful this year. Usually, Michaelangelo receives a monthly flea treatment of Frontline. We also had done the internal one, which also works for heart worms as well. But this summer I saw no real help in those products. I also had been spraying his tummy area with Virbac Genesis Topical Spray. The only little problem here is that I am one of these people who tries to never use chemicals for myself OR my dog if I can at all avoid it.

So, since I wasn't seeing any real, viable results with the flea "usual vet recommended" remedy, and I was super-paranoid about continuing to use a steroidal spray with possible side-effects, I stopped that and went to some "natural" products.

One product I have recently started using is Doc Ackerman's Botanical Citronella Flea Spray. Who wouldn't want to use a product with such natural ingredients as:
Deionized Water,Oil of Citronella, Oil of Pennyroyal, Oil of Pine and Eucalyptus, Fresh Extracts of Wormwood, Rue and Cedarwood Oil,Extract of Black Walnut Leaves, Aloe Vera Extract,Chamomile Extract, Jojoba Oil,Rose Geranium Oil.

Maybe it's working on the fleas, (still I find a few every couple of days) but my baby is scratching himself raw in all kinds of places!!! I just can't stand to think of him in this pain! I know what I feel like when I have a rash and have to itch it till my skin comes off! It's horrible!! To help with his delicate skin, I purchased DermAllay, thinking that this will REALLY help, since it's all fatty acids and oatmeal! WRONG! He is scratching WORSE THAN EVER!!!

I also have recently purchased this product from Pet Alive! Flea Derm. I just can't tell if anything is doing ANYTHING because he bites at his back-side above his tail almost constantly now...and his belly is so pink and looks really painful.

I have made an appointment with our vets to see her tonight. I will bring everything in, including his food, which is Blue, and his only snacks, which are supposed to be healthy and natural too come from Trader Joe's! Peanut Butter & Molasses biscuits are his favorite and I put them in his kong or a natural bone.

SO, I guess it's best to go in and have him looked at and I will bring in all the stuff I have and his biscuits and see what direction we should go in next. I want my baby back to his normal self and his normal self isn't scratching from waking to sleep! It's agony for me to go to work, knowing he's home and probably scratching all day if I don't leave him puppy kong and/or bones to keep his mind off his itching.

Have you ever heard of a vet telling you to give your dog a human medicine? My doctor said to give Michael some allergy meds - a half a tab - when his scratching is really bad! But I never like to take that stuff for myself! Should I give it to my dog!? Does anyone have any ideas?! HELP! Jean? Anyone with any ideas or feedback, I welcome it, and thank you!!! Update coming soon!!

My Little Clothes Horse, I mean God, I mean Dog!!!

2007-11-06T05:58:00.000-08:00

This is such beauty I wake up with every morning!!!
How lucky a girl I am!!! This is my bed warmer!!! Keeps his mamma warm on those cold Northwest winter nights!!!

Speaking of keeping warm and dry here in the beautiful Northwest!!! CHECK OUT these REALLY cute new slickers Michaelangelo got in the mail yesterday!!! Oh how I WISH I would have been ready with the video camera - you should have seen him tearing into his box!!! He was really excited to get some mail with his name on it!!! He LOVES his two new jackets, which I order from JP PET WHOLESALE!! They have some great stuff, and good prices! My order was shipped promptly, and I received it 6 days after my order was placed. (actually I ordered late on Friday, and received the shipment on the next Tuesday). The red slicker is really cool because the strips illuminate with light, and the blue slicker has the super warm sherpa inside! MMMMMmmmm Cozy. Michael loves them both!!!

The Sweetest Little Devil!!

2007-11-02T15:39:00.000-07:00

Michaelangelo likes to dress up, actually!! This outfit was a little difficult to keep on for a long period of time, as it shifted this way and that, but, hey, HOW CUTE IS MY BABY!!!! Hope you had a fun Halloween, with safe, healthy treats!!!

Sweetner Alert for Dogs!!!

2007-11-02T15:30:00.000-07:00

Some very upsetting but very important information about the sweetner called Xylitol! It is deadly for dogs! If you or anyone you know is using this product, PLEASE tell them that this is a very dangerous substance that can kill dogs if they were to eat any foods cooked with it. This story made me cry. I'm so sorry for the family...
http://www.kptv.com/video/14447243/index.html

Indian Summer in October.....

2007-10-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

We've had an exceptional few days and now this weekend is just phenomenal!! Can you see the light pouring in from the windows here?? Michael is waiting oh so patiently until momma gets her gear ready to go out on our weekend adventure!!! It's still just a teeeeeney bit chilly and we don't mind that so much when the sun is shining brightly! We like to get dressed up and go on walks about town and in our favorite parks and such!

Check out how cool this little jersey is Michael has been wearing this month!! It gets just a little bit of light and glows brightly! It's super cool. I wish I had a matching one!!! (Michaelangelo's skeleton jersey came from Target by the way!!!) I can't wait to post Michael's Halloween costume pics here in a couple of days! Oh how well the costume suits him, too!!

We Are Gettin' Spooky Around Here....

2007-10-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

Michaelangelo LOVES to wear clothes in the winter!! He lets me know he likes to and runs over to me when I ask him if he wants to get dressed. His Halloween costume is SUPER cute and cozy and he likes to wear it around the house!!! Hehehe....We have fun around here, can't you tell??? Hope ya'll are all having some pre-holiday fun too!!

Happy Hauntings!!!

Hangin' out Relaxin' with Friends at the Weekend...

2007-09-23T17:44:00.000-07:00

Michaelangelo has healed up nicely from his little paw issue we had recently!!! He had to get stitches and he limped around for a few days and I had to keep him busy with bones with treats in them!!

Rick's buddy from our old hometown came to visit and brought his new little
cutie-baby, Star, what a doll-doggy!!!

Fun day of walks and doggie play...The late afternoon sun is a great way to relax at the end of the day!!!

BabyDog Got a Hurt Paw.....

2007-09-02T16:46:00.000-07:00

Somehow, at some point today, Michaelangelo lacerated his left front paw, split it and punctured clear through, right down to the bone, imagine the pain of such and imagine my tears....Oh my baby! I have no real idea how it happened, the doctor did not find anything in there, which of course, we needed to make sure, so he was sedated and cleaned out, and stitched....

Michael had been napping on the couch while I was doing some housework and the like...I went in to cuddle him and wake him up for a little outside beak and I noticed right away he was limping, which I did not see him doing before! So I had him walk back to me on the couch, still really favoring that foot! So I swooped him up to look and see, I thought maybe he had a thorn in there or something like that, but I saw blood and he definitely let me know he didn't want it messed with! So....
Off we went to our local clinic, just at the end of the road....I thought they would take a look, clean it and put a little triple antibiotic type stuff and bandage it and the doctor said it might actually require some stitching!

I went off to the local pet store while I waited, and found some little boots that will protect his pads. I also have a set of red fleecey booties, for inside mostly, I would think, and it's kind of funny whenever I have tried them on him before, he walks all funny, as though a cat with little pieces of something stuck to his feet, it's pretty funny.....

What's NOT funny is the hospital bill, the pain and medication and just, the temporary hassle for him to get around with this big huge cast type bandage on his front paw and leg!! Thank God I have Monday off as a holiday! That's brilliant, as I surely feel the need to be with him tomorrow while this is so new....

Increasingly, my neighborhood is fraught with rebellious teenagers, gangs and various vagrants, and we can't go a block without coming up on a smashed bottle on the sidewalk or road where we are walking, constantly diverting and me picking Michaelangelo up to get him past any dangers. This is a daily occurrence, we walk everywhere and alot so to see it on every walk, it's a lot. It really is kind of depressing, actually, to think I can't just have a peaceful, happy walk with Michael in our local school grounds and park due to the fact that the local kids smash and vandalize our public and school areas every day. Hhhhmmm, this is a whole other story, and right now, I'm concerned about my babydog's health and safety......

I am deeply upset that I have not a clue what happened to him, and that I didn't prevent it in the first place! It's so odd that just yesterday I was talking about getting Michaelangelo a pair of outside walking boots to keep his beautiful feet protected. Sigh. Well, thank all the Goodness, he's gonna be ok, if not in a little pain for a week or so while he heals up......

In the mean time, think about that for your pets, too! I know it's hard to see everything that's up ahead, just remember to be on the lookout for dangers to your beautiful pet!

Michael and I hope everyone has had a nice long weekend! Ya'll please be safe!!!

Michael Movies!!!

2007-08-24T05:41:00.000-07:00

Michael's walks are of primary importance!! Jack Russells are very athletic animals and their whole mindset is about running around hunting! Michael LOVES running and he is FAST! In the right situations, I can take him off his leash and let him run and chase his ball, or frisbee (which is readily destroyed!!)

Summer has been lots of fun, but lacking the types of adventures I had hoped we would get to do!! Like the "going to ground" races and Jack Russell activities, which do go on but they are a bit of a drive up to Washington....Still we plan to get involved in some of those things soon.

The worst thing about summer, as much as we love it, are the FLEAS!!! GGGGGGRRRRRRR! HOW WE HATE FLEAS!!! This summer it's been a bigger issue I think because Marley lives with us, and the cats are outside cats now, it's enhanced the difficulty of keeping them at bay. And Michael seems to be allergic to their bites, so he is constantly pink and scratching. The other part of the problem is that I am scared to administer too much chemical type products to him, not really understanding their long term effects. The vet said it's fine to use the steroid spray, but I use it rarely, it is also ok to give him Benydryl too, but I rarely do! We use Frontline spray on the dogs and the carpets, but, again, this summer, the fleas have been very difficult to control. Is anyone else having this problem or use anti-flea remedies on their dog or house? I'm curious to know about it!!!!

Well, I do hope you are all having fun adventures this summer! Be sure to check out my fabulous list of links! There are some great info & fun pages for you!!!

Amazing Scuba Cat & Doggie!!!! WOW!

2007-08-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

Now, this is the coolest thing I've seen in a long time! CHECK OUT THIS TOTALLY COOL SCUBA DIVING CAT! AND DOG!!! I love it that people come up with such amazing ideas!!! I would love it if Michaelangelo and I could go scuba diving together, or even snorkeling!!! FUN!

More Squirrel Hunting Adventures.....

2007-08-04T08:37:00.000-07:00

Michaelangelo keeps me pretty active and on my toes! This is just a sample of what our "walks" are like! He's pretty tuned in to the world around him....

2007-08-04T08:01:00.000-07:00

2007-07-08T14:29:00.000-07:00

Michael's here to show you what some chillin' is all about!!!

"Happy Birthday" & Second Anniversary Me & Michaelangelo!!!

2007-07-04T17:09:00.000-07:00

Hiking Steep Trails with Michael

2007-06-11T09:30:00.001-07:00

Michael and I are thinking of starting up our very own "Adventure Video Series" of the various places we like to go around town, and of course, the park wins out every time!!! More adventures coming soon!!!

2007-06-02T13:28:00.000-07:00

Summertime's just getting started!!!!

dog

2007-05-29T12:57:00.001-07:00

Well, I have no idea what they are saying, but THIS is a cute little shorty jack! hahaha.

2007-05-28T08:55:00.001-07:00

Playing Dogs

2007-05-22T22:13:00.001-07:00

Wild Dogs at Play! Notice how Marley scares me every time he runs up to Michael! hehehe. This kind of stuff can go on for hours! hahaha. WILD!

Jack Russell on the Squirrel Hunt at the Park

2007-05-10T00:42:00.001-07:00

Here is a little video of Michael on the hunt!! Hence his nickname being "Hunter"..Gotta hang on tight when out for a walk in the park wtih this little guy. His hearing of anything other than animal action totally turns off while he becomes 100% focused on his goal: SEEK OUT AND DESTROY! Squirrles that is!!!

Ferocious Michael Playing with Marley

2007-05-10T00:36:00.001-07:00

My son Rick's dog Marley having a ball with the wild, ferocious Alpha Dog, Michael.....

Michaelangelo Playing in the Snow

2007-05-10T00:35:00.001-07:00

This is so fun! I meant to post this way back in January when we had the snow! It's pretty cute and really shows how Michael loves to play in the snow!!

More Important Information to Check Out on Foods...

2007-05-01T09:42:00.000-07:00

Research Links for Pet Food Recall from the Humane Society:

http://www.hsus.org/pets/pets_related_news_and_events/recalled_pet_food_and_treats.html

Further Dog Food Reviews on Highest Rated Brands:

http://www.dogfoodanalysis.com/dog_food_reviews/

Michaelangelo, Adventuredog Update….

2007-03-26T19:10:00.000-07:00

We’ve moved to Blue….and the verdict didn’t take long to be reached:

Michaelangelo LOVES IT!!! He was begging for more!

The more I read about the tragic pet food recall and the “by-products” in the foods and so on….the more upset I got about it all. Blue kept coming back to me, and the further I read about it, the more I knew that we want to be on this food. Human grade meats, antioxidants, no preservatives or unnatural additives, this is the food for us….

I feel very good about recommending this food for your dog or cat!

I would say go for as high a quality food - that is just as simple – as you possibly can. Just as we humans should stop eating any and all foods with additives and preservatives (and that damned High Fructose Corn Syrup!!!) as we can, so should our pet family members.

Currently I am in love with this item, found at PetSmart stores and on their website! I actually tried one out in the store, Michael sat in there all zipped up and he was fine with it ! I so so so so so so so hope to one day have the kind of cash that would allow me such fancies!!! hahaha. Check it out for yourself!

What Are You Feeding Your Pet???

2007-03-23T05:53:00.000-07:00

This recent animal food recall & the death of pets who ate the wet food made & packaged in Canada, really has been on my mind and prompted me to do some further studies about the company I have been representing these past several months (Eukanuba) and re-think what I am feeding Michael. It's disturbing and pains me that people have lost their pets, and I hope their class action suits kicks some ass and helps to make some stricter guidelines for pet food manufacturing.

I feel I must share some links to some informtion you might want to read if you are in fact a pet owner, you might want to think seriously about what's in the food you are feeding your animal. I am definitely doing further research. I personally don't cook much, so cooking food for Michael might be harder for me than others, but his Daddy Dog and I might come up with something. In the mean time, do your research, as I am, and check out these links below. Blue Buffalo company is a great company from what I understand, I use to work with the rep from Blue every weekend and she swears the best food ever "made" for animals. I'm reading their "what's in the food" section of their site and I'm thinking this might be the food we switch to for now. This food was developed when the creator's animal was diagnosed with a life threatening illness. I am going to talk with her in closer detail. I will let you know more about my findings! Please send me any thoughts or information worth checking out! Thank you!

Get The Facts: What's REALLY in Pet Food

Selecting a Commercial Pet Food

The Blue Buffalo Company

How to Make Your Own Pet Food at E-how.com

Home Made Dog & Cat food at Pet Grub.com

Keep Your Dog Healthy With Homemade Food at Ezine Articles

Jack Russell Meet Up Group

2007-03-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

AAAAhhhhh, the end of a wonderful Saturday.........

What did we do today, Michael?????

(Be Sure to Click on the photos!!!)

Recently (March 10) Michaelangelo went to the local Jack Russell Meet Up and had a great time meeting the other dogs!! He was the only shorty there. He was worn out at the end of the day last Saturday. As was his big dog (seen above)......

Ever the hunter, here, at the park, Michael is ready for action...I'm just along for the ride!!!

(That's Michael, over by the fence, on the right)

The Jacks we hung out with were all the "Parsons" Jack Russells, like the dog you would see on Frasier....The Parsons Jack Russells are taller, with longer legs and a shorter body than my Michaelangelo's "Shorty" Jack Russells. Michael's breed are considered the "English" or European stock. They are sometimes called "Puddin" Jacks....
The illustration at the top shows you the incredible athletic build the Jack Russells have and to illustrate their origins as pack hunters.....

In any case, I noticed a considerable difference between Michaelangelo's behavior and temperment than the Parsons' Jacks.....Hhhhhhmmm. Very different indeed!!! Michael is MUCH more mellow than the Parsons we've met. Much, much more chilled....

Jack Russells are incredible on the agility courses!!! I am hoping that Michael and I can try some agility training this summer! He has to go through his Intermediate Training with Debbie (see his recent graducation from "Beginner" class below!!) and then we can continue on to try to do some training and possibly RACING!!! WHOOOHOOOOOO! GO BOY!!

Here's a nice Parsons Jack named Bella, super sweet, funny dog. We like Bella. Love her half-mask!!!

Michael is not in this bunch of playing dogs....He's off on his own smelling around!!!
Michael's not a "run with the pack" dog, he's his own dog. Like his mamma.....

More Doggie Fun on our next installment of the adventures of
Michaelangelo, Adventuredog!!!!

My Dog Loves the Hairdryer!

2007-03-11T17:50:00.000-07:00

A Typical Day with Adventuredog!!!!

2007-02-18T17:25:00.000-08:00

Here we find Michael taking a little bone chewin' break on the bed and watching the kitties next door play outside in the spring-like sunshine!

Here, Michael gets his Big Dog to take a break from the computer long enough to get some cuddles!!!

One of Michael's TOP THREE things to do is kill squirrels in the park! But since I prefer not to deal with that every day I say we just "chase" the squirrels and maaaaaybe once and while kill a squirrel...GOOD DOG!!!

LET ME AT 'EM!

This is what Michael (and his Big Dog, "Daddy") look like in the morning....Yep. He's a cuddle-under-cover dog. He is happiest cuddled up in bed....Well, almost!!!.....

No morning, noon or night would be complete with the obligatory bone-chewing...Michael and Marley have worked on this bone now for quite sometime. Soon, it will be a throw away bone! hahaa, it was huge when I bought it! hehehehe. Michael is very skilled with his bone handling!

Sometimes when Michael and I are out walking on a particularly dry and warm-ish winter day, he'll decide to stop and take a rest...Chill out for a bit....And well, unless I want to drag him down the street about to slip all out of his harness, I might want to be stopping and chillin' out a bit too....This particular place is the playground of a little school close by...Sometimes the kids will say hi to him through the fence...Sometimes the school forgets to lock the gate and we go in and sniff around where the kids play....Michael loves kids.....

So here we are the end of our day.....Michael likes his little breaks, he helps me to stop and take it all in too.....We listen to all the sounds around us....We sniff at the air......MMmm. Spring and Summer are coming and more adventures are ahead! We love summer, huh Michael!!!!

Michael Graduates from Puppy Training Class!!!

2007-02-07T07:55:00.000-08:00

Yyyyyaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyy !
Michael graduated from his "Beginner Education" class yesterday, and is now signed up to go on to the next level of training!!!

This is Debi, Michael's amazing trainer. She has trained any kind of animal you can think of! She has worked on movies, and even tv's Frasier's dog. I highly recommend her if anyone is thinking about taking their dog to classes!

Aaaaaaaawwwwwwwwww Michael!!!!! He loves Debi!!!
She just happens to have a Jack Russel and a Rat Terrier!!

WOW! LOOK AT THAT BEAUTY!!!!

2007-01-24T10:40:00.000-08:00

Michaelangelo is incredibly handsome !!! He has a wonderful confidence about him that just makes me smile ear to ear! I believe he's star quality, and he definitely oughta be in pictures!! And that's why he IS!!!!!

Photos January 21, 2007

Michaelangelo Playing in the January Snow!!!

2007-01-16T19:28:00.000-08:00

Beauty in the Snow!!!

2007-01-13T20:21:00.000-08:00

WOW! Michaelangelo LOVES the snow! I'm going to try to post some little videos onto You Tube that I can post here for you! He goes running around really fast! It's pretty fun to watch!
BEAUTY!

Happy Holidays from Michaelangelo & His Mamma!!!!

2006-12-23T13:12:00.000-08:00

I've been trying for days to get a family photo of me, the kids and the Horses for the holidays! Well, here are a couple of holiday pix for ya!
Happy Holidays!!!

For Christmas, Michael got a new raincoat for the winter to keep him at least a little dry during our walks this rainy season!!! Handsomest doggy around!!!

Latest Adventures in Dog town.......

2006-12-09T18:20:00.000-08:00

I have a great contest for any of your dog owners!!!!
Go to Beauty of the Breeds
and send in a picture or video of your dog to win
ONE YEAR of FREE EUKANUBA for your dog!!!
GOOD LUCK!!!

Michael loves company and he loves Angela cuz she lets him have some lap time when she's visiting....

Michael got a new collar when David went up to Seattle to shop for his store recently. It's not just "any" old collar, it's an LED lighted collar, and it's very, very cool! You can see more information about Pet Lights here....He actally loves it and one night was sitting beside me begging for me to put it on him!!!

Here I am showcasing my prowess with handling two small horses at one time!!!!

Michael Starts Training Classes with Mom.........

2006-10-03T13:50:00.000-07:00

Michaelangelo and I are attending classes to teach me how to teach him!!! First night went pretty well! A lot of excitement, of course, there were some puppies in there, and Michael, of course, wanted to talk and play with eveyone! We have homework to do, as well, and we'll work on the basic tricks we learned till next week! I'm excited because our trainer has worked with Fraser's dog (which sadly, died a couple of months ago....), on the Dogs and Cats movie, among others!!! The trainer ALSO has not one, but TWO Jack Russells and a Rat Terrier (they are cousins, basically) of her own - soo she can reaaaaalllyy identify with my Hunter baby!!!

Wild Child at the Park.....

2006-09-30T08:32:00.000-07:00

Michaelangelo is the quintessential Jack Russell. I have done a bit of reading about his breed, and he really is an incredible dog, definitely capable of doing what his breed was made to do!! HUNT! Michael is quite the hunter, having caught and killed a squirrel in the park we go to (almost) daily! It was quite the experience for me (the first and only one so far!!) and the event cost me $130 in vet billing to get him seen to, since the squirrel bit him a few times under this chin!

Michael and I are starting some Doggie Classes on Monday!! Hopefully, since the girl "training" us has two Jack Russells herself, she will be able to have some extra "Jack" related tips for me and my wild child!!! Today he pulled his leash right out of my hand when I made the mistake to stop and chit chat with a lady who has a beautiful Golden Retriever - to go do his hunting thing - chasing squirrels right up a tree! It was a split second and he was already over at the tree!!! I was on my butt on the sidewalk (I was bending down petting the lady's dog and Michael was looking at the trees, saw a squirrel and flash! he was off before I knew it....pulled me down on my butt on the sidewalk!!!) and then off to chase him down! Anyway! Wish us luck!!!

Day 4 Obs & Notes

2006-09-11T09:57:00.001-07:00

Did not use spray. Little scratching, if any. Good all around day for Michael!

Day 3 Observation and Notes

2006-09-09T07:19:00.000-07:00

Spray applied in morning and night, both before walks.

Michael seems to be scratching MUCH less!

I did notice, however, that by 9:30pm, he was scratching a bit more again. I had not applied the spray or walked him for the night. Applied spray, went for our walk, and no scratching for the rest of the night.

Day 2 Observations and Notes

2006-09-07T07:31:00.000-07:00

7am Michael woke and was starting to scratch. Found two fleas on him, got 'em, flushed 'em....
Looks a little less pink. ?

Day 1 on Spray and Journaling Observations.....

2006-09-06T16:18:00.000-07:00

Sept. 6th - Saw Dr. Johnson about the itching problem. Michael seems to have seasonal allergies as apparently lots of other dogs do, to pollens, etc. The flea meds have not seemed to do much for the control of fleas, but we have tried the Frontline Plus and it didn't seem to do much. Will bump up the application to every 3 weeks now.

RX:

Frontline Plus every 3 weeks. Next application due September 27th
Topical Steroid Spray. Twice daily for 2 - 3 days. Then taper to 1 x daily, then every couple of days, then every 3 days and so on.
Continue with Flaxseed Oil on food 1x per day

Notes: Applied spray and Frontline Plus 4pm
By 10 pm Still scratching and trying to lick and bite spots most of night. Kept him close by me at all times and gave puppy kong to keep him occupied.

Michael's Observation Journal

2006-09-06T15:53:00.000-07:00

I needed to start a little observation journal for Michael and his current itching/scratching problem and with the appliation of this new antidote, want to track and monitor his progress daily. I want to see if his symptoms are only seasonal (which I believe they are!) or what, and how long into fall/winter does he have them.....Gives me a fun organized way to keep up with it, not on a notebook I can lay down and misplace!!! This is great because I can post photos of the handsome guy too!!