Tommy's BLOG

Dogs help Newt capture SC

2012-01-26T13:45:00.003-05:00

Gosh, I've been napping so much I forgot to check the results from South Carolina. And I woke up to learn that Newt won a smashing victory in South Carolina. I know he is a great man and I am just a small [furry] cockapoo [with sloppy ears and a short stubby tail]. But I hope that in some small way, my support helped mobilize large segments of the Canine-American community.

Romney's past record with Seamus is really 'dogging' him. Now it's on to Florida, where I expect Newt to go real well.

Romney Reconsidered

2012-01-13T12:56:00.007-05:00

I have to admit, Romney really impressed me. After his victory in the New Hampshire, a victory I worked so tirelessly to prevent, he came clean and apologized right here, in an exclusive on my blog. I've transcribed his comment.

Hi Tommy,

I'm here in New Hampshire and as you can imagine, things are pretty crazy right now. But I want to thank you for calling me out on event you criticized. It was a bone-headed thing I did, putting Seamus on the roof of the car and I'm real sorry and a changed man. I hope you saw my speech. I was puporsely wearing my doggie tie for you to see, a way for me to express my atonement and my respect for your work.

Gotta go, I got a lot of supporters out there.

Mitt

OK, I have to admit, I missed his speech. Maybe my daddy had it on, I don't know. I suppose I was curled up on the ottoman taking my after dinner snooze. But after seeing his comment, I searched the web for a picture of him during the speech . . . and sure enough, it really looks like a cute doggie tie that he's wearing. Maybe I misjudged him or maybe not. Time will tell. But in the meantime, I still want Newt because he's always been good for us dogs.

Romney? No Way!

2012-01-09T08:30:00.007-05:00

Very disappointing result in the Iowa caucuses. Newt didn't do so well, but I think my endorsement helped him a little. I saw that his arch-enemy, Mitt Romney, did well in Iowa and I want to make one final appeal to all you dog-lovers in New Hampshire. I think you should vote for Newt, but if you don't want to vote for him for whatever reason, PLEASE, don't vote for Romney. The man is very bad to us dogs. That's what I just learned.

Romney had a really nice dog, an Irish Setter, named Seamus, who you can see here. You would have thought he would have loved the dog and treated him well. But evidently, that's not the kind of human Mitt Romney is.

Boston Globe: Mitt Romney's Dog Days

Romney and his wife and five young boys piled into the family station wagon for a 12-hour drive from Boston to Lake Huron in Canada. As was the custom, Seamus, their Irish setter, rode in a crate strapped to the top of the car. . . Somewhere along the way, the dog began to experience, shall we say, digestive trouble that made its presence known via, uh, streaks on the back windshield. Ever the efficiency enforcer, Romney pulled into a gas station, hosed the dog off, put him back on the roof and continued the trip.

Put's his nice doggie on the roof. How do you like that? I'm sorry, this is not the kind of man I could support, and I bet you are the same way. Please, all my dog and dog-loving friends out there in New Hampshire, tell everyone you know what kind of man Mitt Romney really is . . . before it's too late!

Newt Gingrich for President

2011-12-23T13:07:00.011-05:00

Many dogs have been waiting, some even patiently, for me to throw my weight behind one of the candidates running for president. While some have believed I've been inattentive to the enormous issues facing our community, I can assure you I've been carefully following the candidates, the debates, and the issues. We all know that institutional bigotry prevents me and other of my species from running, but that does not negate the enormous challenges facing our country.

It is only after long and careful deliberation that I announce my endorsement of Newt Gingrich. He has publicly stated that puppies will play a big role in his campaign moving forward:

Gingrich to Campaign With Pets

The campaign said today that it will soon launch a “Pets With Newt” site aimed at Gingrich’s love for animals . . .

[H]e told ABC News today he and his wife Callista want a dog in the White House, and it’s a friendly disagreement between the couple over what kind and size of dog. Callista wants a small dog and Newt wants a large dog . . .

“When I was a child I had a cocker spaniel and Doberman pincher and German Sheppard. . . ” Gingrich said.

[It's hard not to like a man like that. I wonder if his cocker spaniel was related to my mom, Cherokee?]

Newt, along with all the other candidates, has yet to make his positions known on Universal Pet Health Care, Affordable Doggie Day Care, and Canine Voting Rights. But he is obviously a man of character and deserves our support for lack of a true doggist candidate.

STRIKE: SUCCESS!

2011-12-08T10:03:00.003-05:00

My Nation-wide Canine Day of Inaction was a big success. Dogs all across the country joined me to call for Universal Pet Health Care, Affordable Doggie Day Care, and distribution of Bologna Stamps, all to be paid for by a big tax on the Fat Cats.

Yesterday, from the time my daddy left until the time my mommy came home, I exercised complete inaction, not helping humans in any way, not even posting to my blog, which I understand many humans derive great benefit from. I got many e-mails from around the country that guard dogs refused to guard, attack dogs refused to attack, watch dogs refused to watch, sniffer dogs refused to sniff, retriever dogs refused to retrieve and ALL dogs refused to wag their tails. The poor humans were near helpless without us. A special nod goes out to Bo Obama who refused to give face licks to Sasha and Malia. That will sure get the president's attention.

Just one quick example of the plight of us poor dogs. You know, I'd love to go to doggie day care. It would be great for my cognitive development and make me a much more productive canine citizen. I begged my daddy, but he told me it was too expensive; that one day of doggie day care costs more than two weeks of even high-end dog food like Grammy's Pot Pie. Where is our government? Why aren't they helping us with subsidies? Well, our fight is just starting. If things don't happen soon, we will be having Nation-wide Canine Days of Inaction more and more often.

STRIKE!

2011-12-02T09:56:00.004-05:00

I couldn’t help but notice this heartwarming tail of puppies doing what comes naturally, helping humans, in this case, law students.

Cuddlypuppies help law students de-stress before exams

“For high-strung law students, dogs . . . can also provide a soothing presence . . . At George Mason’s law school, which has more than 700 students, dozens took a break Thursday from their immersion in contracts, torts, criminal law and the like and gathered for more than two hours in the school’s atrium to play with the puppies.”

And we love helping our human friends and we do it in so many ways. That’s why it is so inconceivable to me how our cries for justice go unheeded by the human leaders. Where is there progress on the Universal Pet Health Care bill? Or Affordable Doggie Day Care? Or Bologna Stamps for dogs whose owners cannot afford to buy them tasty human snacks? We’ve been demanding these measures for too long now and have barely made a RUFF in protest, all the while continuing to work.

Since our woofing hasn’t helped, we will need to step up methods. That’s why I am calling for a nation-wide Canine Day of Inaction. On December 7, there will be no cuddling with law students, no therapy dogs in hospital, no fetching, no bomb sniffing, no drug sniffing, no guiding the blind, and definitely NO TAIL WAGS! We'll just how well the human population prospers without us.

Capital Punishment -- Warranted?

2011-11-23T13:45:00.005-05:00

Those who know me can attest that I'm a friendly, peaceful cockapoo, and not a dog who seeks vengeance. I like to lead a gentle life and try to think well of others. But then I read this news article:

Barrington Panel Votes to Euthanize 'Vicious' East Providence Dog

Barrington police held a vicious-dog hearing Monday morning after a boxer/pitbull [diverse-breed dog] registered to an East Providence owner maimed a cockapoo and its owner last July. . .

The attack on the cockapoo . . . came within four doors of her home . . . Smith said she was walking her 11-year-old dog, . . . when the boxer/pitbull jumped through the open window of an SUV and attacked them. . . .The boxer jumped and snapped at them and managed to bite into the cockapoo’s legs and pull them to the ground.
The boxer pulled so hard that the cockapoo’s legs were pulled out of the hip joints and the bite marks penetrated to the bone.

I'm glad they caught this dog and put him in jail where he belongs -- pictured above in his cell. The description of the attack is so awful that I am rethinking my position on capital punishment. I support it for animals like this. What do you think?

Do you think they give him a 'last meal' before execution, with any food he wants? Hmm.

Fun new game

2011-10-31T08:55:00.003-04:00

Anyone who knows me knows I'm the kind of doggie who likes to play games, all sorts, like ghost doggie, hide and go sniff, ruff bowling, and chase me. Now we have this new game my daddy and I like to play: Crate Carnage. See, the idea is for daddy to put me in my crate for a specified period and I get to sack the crate and anything I can get my paws on. WOW, what a workout and I've been doing so good that daddy has been giving me a lot of turkey. There is one downside to the game. While in my crate, I am unable to blog, which is why you heard so little from me over the past couple of weeks.

At first I wasn't familiar with the game and just started slow, like dragging a towel, which was conveniently placed on top of the crate, inside and shredding it. But then daddy made the game harder and didn't leave any towels on top. It wasn't much fun until I got my paws onto that rug under the crate and pulled and pulled until I dragged it in through the bars and went all cockapoo on it. That was quite a feat, let me tell you, because all my 20 pounds of force were exerted onto the rug. Daddy didn't think I could do it, but he was so impressed by me that he took photos. You can see one below.

Well, daddy keeps trying to challenge me. "Meliora" he says to me, which translates to "Ever higher" and I was up to the challenge. He took away towels on top of the crate and rugs under the crate. I had to use all my brain power to think of some way to win the game. And there it was, under my paws all this time: the crate pan, itself. You can see below how well I played the game, and all in only one day!

I want to play some more, but here they went and did it and left me out of my crate today. Maybe tomorrow.

MLK Memorial Dedication

2011-10-14T08:54:00.007-04:00

Gosh, I've received hundreds of email relating to my last post about the new MLK memorial. My blog broke the story about its opening and as you saw, I didn't post a photo of it then. So it turns out thousands of people now want to rush down there this weekend to see it. Hey, if you just want to see what it looks like, I posted a photo of it here, so you don't need to brave the crowd.

As you can see, it's a real nice statue. And there I am, posing in front of it. As I mentioned before, inexplicably 'pets' are forbidden entry and I only got in because the guard recognized me and all. I'll be fighting real hard over the coming months and years to secure the right of everyone, black dogs, and white dogs, and all shades in between, to have free and open access to this memorial. We should never be satisfied as long as dogs are stripped of their selfhood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating "No Pets".

I'll be down there this weekend, mixing with the crowd. But I want to keep the focus squarely on Martin, so please . . . I'll be signing pawtographs, but just for the kids and puppies.

Occupy DC!

2011-10-11T09:57:00.006-04:00

What a thrilling day in downtown DC, joining a lot of like-minded people who are fed up with the way things are going for the poor people and dogs in this country. I pleaded with my daddy to take me because I want my RUFF to be heard for all the causes I believe in. I don't think my daddy completely agrees with me on my politics. But he is a good daddy and took me anyway even though he said they were just a bunch of airheaded morons. He was wrong about that because these were very smart people. I made these new friends you can see in the picture. They agreed with everything I supported, like Affordable Doggie Day Care and Universal Pet Healthcare (which goes by the new moniker 'Peticare').

The movement is really gaining steam and I hope to be out there protesting a lot more in the coming months!

What would Martin say?

2011-09-16T15:51:00.009-04:00

At long last! A memorial to one of my heroes, Martin Luther King. Martin and I have been notable champions for the down-trodden, African- and Canine-Americans, respectively. And we are both very non-violent. Well you can imagine my excitement when Daddy told me his new memorial has opened and he was going to take me sight-peeing! But anticipation turned to bitter irony when I was confronted with the dreaded sign (see accompanying photo). No, no, I don't mean the part about the 'no food or drink.' I may like my food, but I can go for a while without it. I'm referring to the line about 'NO pets.' Isn't this EXACTLY the kind of cruel exclusion that Martin fought so hard against down in the south? Too bad Martin's not with us anymore to correct the evil wrongs of society (yes, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I did check, and in fact someone gunned him down). It's an outrage that those who built the exhibit only wanted to feel important and never truly grasped Martin's teachings.

I really was disappointed. I went to so much trouble to get my fur cut for the occasion. Look, you can see I still have my bandana on. But then the head guard recognized me and all. He said he read my blog and was a big admirer. So he said he would make this one exception and let me in. I guess that was OK for what was worth, but what about all the other dogs who want to see the exhibit? What about their rights? It looks like it is up to me to carry on Martin's work.

In the end, I did see it and it was real good and if I find the time I'll blog more about it later.

Happy Birthday to My Two-Legged Grandma

2011-09-06T09:47:00.001-04:00

It's September 6 and I want to give a woof-out to my two-legged grandma, who, if my floppy ears didn't deceive me, is 84 years old today, according to my daddy. You read that right: 84 years!

I know what you're going to say, that seems impossible, right? I mean, here we cockapoos are struggling to make it to 15 or 20 years. And many of your mono-breeds can't make it much past 10. And here's my two-legged grandma at 84. But it's right. You see, the two-legged ones live a lot longer. I don't know how they do it, maybe it has something to do with Einstein's theories or maybe it's because they aren't forced to eat dog food all their lives. But there you have it.

Well anyhow, happy birthday grandma.

The saddest little cockapoo

2011-08-30T08:54:00.003-04:00

I sure had a great time the past few months, with my brother and sister at home. Then on Sunday, we went for a long bye-bye and my sister played with me the whole time and we got to a building and she greeted her friends, and they were laughing and screaming, which is when she stopped paying attention to me :-(

Then she pat me on the head, said 'good-bye' and that's the last I saw of her. Now I'm all alone during the day. I even had to sneak downstairs to use the computer (shhh, don't tell my mommy, she thinks I'm locked in the bathroom). Maybe it's time for me to leave and catch up with my woof-mom.

One of My Heroes

2011-08-24T09:08:00.001-04:00

Here I am posing with Ghandi, one of my all-time heroes. This Ghandi guy was a lot like me; he didn't want to play ruff. See, he didn't like to fight but he called it 'non-violent'. Well, I can dig that, cause I'm 'non-violent' too. Like when I'm at the dog park, I like to sit under the bench and watch all the other dogs when they get into their ruff stuff.

So this Ghandi was really something, but even though he and I are alike in so many ways, you gotta admit that he was a little dumber than me. Like for instance, if I saw a tough-looking British bull-dog on the street, I would pull to the other side and hope he didn't notice me. But when Ghandi saw a tough-looking British cop, he wouldn't cross to the other side, but would just stand there and let the cop beat him up. How smart is that?

Well the British treated him so bad that that he didn't get enough food. Look at how skinny he is. And he didn't get the right vet care and had to walk with that cane. Real sad. But this where it gets good. He made himself so pathetic that the British felt sorry for him and decided to leave him, and even his whole country, alone and they decided to leave. So in the end, Ghandi, even though he wasn't too bright, did a great thing and now we have a country called 'India'. And they even built this statue of him and put it in the middle of Washington and I got to visit on a sight-peeing walk and got this cool picture taken. The only downside to the day was, even though I was 'sight-peeing', daddy wouldn't let me mark my territory here.

First they came for the Rottweilers . . .

2011-06-10T13:36:00.000-04:00

Despite all my efforts and the growing awareness of the canine rights crowd, canine profiling is still a serious threat.

Dangerous Dog Ordinance in College Park

Can you believe it? In this country, a country with firm protections for the humans, can allow good dogs be presumed guilty just because of their breed.

Why I am suing Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman

2011-05-11T14:53:00.003-04:00

On Tuesday I filed a lawsuit against the Ma-Su Valley Frontiersman, a tabloid paper that published false and reckless charges about me in May of 2011.

This is what they wrote:

So please, do yourself and your neighbors a favor and keep Fido under control. It’s the law. And even if Fido is a Pomeranian — all dogs are capable of biting.”

Full article

The reporters at the Frontiersman follow my blog and are well aware of my kind and gentle nature, yet went ahead and published their implicit slanderous claim about me. Quite plainly, in spite of their statements, it is well known that I have never and will never bite. Frankly, I am afraid of small kids and only wag and jump in the presence of adults humans. I don’t even bite dogs, not even Jackie who deserved it after she assaulted me. On my walks, I pull to cross to the other side of the street when I see Thing1 and Thing2. And at the dog park, I like to hide under the bench when the other dogs want to play ruff.

Because I am a high-profile blogger in the canine world, I expect to receive a lot of criticism. I am not thin-skinned about personal criticism. I consider myself very fortunate to be a cockapoo in America. Criticism comes with the territory and I respect it. I have never sued people who publish critical opinions of me, nor have I previously sued any news organization. But I also hope that people understand why sometimes, especially in the age of the Internet, when an unretracted lie can live forever, you have to draw the line. I honor vigorous free expression in the media. But even a public cockapoo can sue for defamation when a tabloid paper publishes a harmful assertion of a fact, not an opinion, that it knows to be false or recklessly disregards the truth.

Let’s be clear what this lawsuit is not about. It is not about money. I have already publicly committed to donate any financial damages I win to help homeless diverse breed dogs. Nor did I or any of my representatives ask for the tabloid writer to be fired, despite published reports to the contrary.

Simply put, this lawsuit is about the truth — and the need to correct the record. I will gladly withdraw my complaint if they publish a simple retraction (and a purge of the condescending moniker ‘Fido’). I would be quite content if they rephrased it to read “Even for dogs diminutive in stature – it’s possible that the dog is capable of biting unless the dog is a small furry cockapoo with floppy ears and a short stubby tail who answers by the name of Tommy, in which case just feed him some bologna and he will wag his tail.”

"Companion Animals"

2011-05-09T11:07:00.006-04:00

It's very encouraging to see that my blogging has had such an impact on canine rights. This is but one sign that things are starting to change.

"Companion Animals" yes --- "Pets" no

Professor Andrew Linzey of the prestigious Animal Ethics Center at Oxford has followed my blog for years. Now he is calling for big changes in the way we view and refer to animals. He advocates an end of the use of the offensive word "pets." After all, what does it mean to be a "pet." It sounds a little perverted, if you ask me, and all us animals don't like it.

Donald Trump for Human President?

2011-04-19T08:53:00.002-04:00

I'm starting to look at the possible candidates and one of my early favorites is Donald Trump. He purportedly likes dogs and even has one of his own, who looks a lot like him. And Trump is big with the Pee Party. And he doesn't like that dog-hating Obama.

Monty the Yale Law Dog

2011-03-22T13:09:00.003-04:00

Here's Monty, whose doing everything he can to help kids get smart.

Monty the Yale Law Dog

This is a real good experiment and it should work. See, Yale students who are having trouble with your school work, you can go to the library and check out Monty who will give them all the answers. Makes more sense than checking out a book.

Makes you wonder, doesn't it? All these government programs on how to get kids to do well in schools when the answer is as obvious as the wag of my tail. You could eliminate all the rest of the federal government spending on education and just give each student his own dog, preferably one with floppy ears, who are known to be smarter.

These are the kind of policy proposals I'll be listening for in the upcoming 2012 presidential election.

Wishing for the Best in Japan

2011-03-14T09:58:00.003-04:00

Truly tragic what happened in Japan. So many people and dog houses damaged, destroyed, or just washed away. No one is wishing for a swift recovery more than this little cockapoo. But I saw this photo on the web and felt I had to comment. The environment and air is bad, no doubt. And the people need to have on the masks. But what about the poor animals; they need the mask too, maybe even more because our lives are very short as it is. Don't forget about us!

When Man's Best Friend Is Obese

2011-02-28T16:08:00.007-05:00

Anyone who knows me knows I love my food, like steak and hamburger and bologna and ice cream and chicken and turkey and cheese and Grammy's Pot Pie from the can. But I always make sure to eat sensibly and not beg for too much. That's why I took note when I read this article in the Wall Street Journal. Obesity in dogs is a major problem and costs this country in excess of $17 trillion per year, according to a recent study by the Canine Institute.

That's why I support a national canine nutrition bill to enact new standards for dog food nutrition, allocate federal funds to subsidize healthy pet living (like treadmills, for instance), and levy still penalties for owners who overfeed their dogs. Please join me in my crusade.

Peace out,
Tommy

Lament for a Missed Opportunity

2011-02-23T08:08:00.011-05:00

So, so sad. It has long been one of my ambitions to relieve myself on this beautiful tree: the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse. But look what happened during a recent wind storm.

Winds Topple National Christmas Tree

I've visited that tree a few times and always pulled to go do a 'sniff-n-lift'. But daddy would say it was too crowded and promised we would come back at a quieter time. Alas, that time never came. They say they'll plant a new one, but it might take a human generation before it reaches the majestic heights of this once regal monument.

So long, old friend.

Grizz - Victim of Unjust Law

2011-02-11T09:12:00.006-05:00

Here's a picture of Grizz. He looks mean, I'll grant you that, and I wouldn't want to sniff with him if I encountered him on a walk or at the dog park. But he's no criminal, despite the charges that were filed.

You can read about it here:

"Man faces misdemeanor charge of animal cruelty"

All Grizz did, like any dog would do in a similar circumstance, was euthanize a raccoon who had been bothering his master. Dogs have the right to do that, to chase lower forms of animal and do what they wish if skillful enough to catch one. Take me, for instance. My daddy sends me out all the time to chase the squirrels around my back yard. I never catch one . . . but if I did . . . well . . . I don't know what I'd do, but I know no law is going to stop me from going all cockapoo on him.

Are you ready for some football?

2011-02-04T13:30:00.003-05:00

I know I'll be watching:

Puppy Bowl VII

The biggest event on all fours is back! Puppy Bowl returns for its seventh consecutive year with an all-star, all-adorable cast that's ready to mix it up on the grand gridiron of Animal Planet Stadium. Puppy Bowl VII brings viewers a loveable lineup that's itching to play in a winning combination of terrier tackles, touchdowns, puppy penalties, fumbles and Fido first downs. Featuring fan favorites like the Water Bowl Cam, tail-gating fans, and the Ice Breakers blimp and its hamster crew, this year's big game is sure to be a tail-wagger. For the first time ever, viewers can watch the action from the puppy's point-of-view with the new Puppy Cam. And be on the lookout for the "chicks" on the sidelines with the addition of chicken cheerleaders. Also, don't miss the debut of the Kiss Cam, which is sure to keep the crowd on its feet. From barking beagles and spunky spaniels to everything in between, we've got the cutest players taking the field on the most action-packed Sunday of the year. Plus, back for another year is the popular Bissel Kitten Halftime Show, guaranteed to bring the house down! And, for the first time in Puppy Bowl history, all the action will broadcast in a stunning native 3-D version that will premiere on "3net" — the new 3-D network joint venture of Discovery Communications, Sony and IMAX in 2011.

Militant Threat

2011-01-07T14:03:00.005-05:00

This was a terrible tragedy. Read about it here:

Mt. Vernon Man Hospitalized after Brutal Dog Attack

I want to be very clear that I condemn this violent, militant attack. Unfortunately, this fringe group, Woof-Qaeda, has hijacked the law-abiding canine rights movement to justify their own brutal and criminal behavior.

On the other hand, our government must, on some level, be held partly responsible. Their repressive policies -- requiring us to wear tags, preventing us from so many public facilities, and stringent leash laws, to name a few -- are the best recruiting tools in Woof-Qaeda's arsenal. You just know that Woof-Qaeda is out there planning more attacks. We need change now!

No jackets, please

2011-01-03T13:19:00.005-05:00

I've addressed this topic before, but with the cold weather upon us, it is worth stressing again.

Here, this article explains it all: link

You can see how the other dogs are going to laugh at and make fun of me if I wear that thing. And it makes me too hot, with all my fur and all. But read the article carefully. It does make an excellent suggestion:

There are a few other steps pet owners can take to winterize their dogs. During fall and winter, adding one or two pounds of body weight can help.

Yep, that's right. That's what I need: more food, especially food to fatten me up, like hamburger and hot dog, not silly looking jackets.

President Obama, Dog Hater in Chief

2010-12-27T13:02:00.006-05:00

"The president said, 'So many people who serve time never get a fair second chance.' He was ... passionate about it."

link: Obama happy Vick's back

So, he was so passionate about this, huh? But he didn't seem very passionate about those poor animals. It's well known among my kind that Obama hates us. He didn't want to get Bo and only did because he had to and it's a good thing Bo has those girls cause if not, no one would pay attention to him. Here's just more proof. Obama is so compassionate for 'poor' Michael Vick, but he failed to mention the victims.

Look, I forgave Michael Vick, and I took some heat in the canine blogosphere as a result (see this post: Tommy forgives Vick). But this Obama is so quick to forgive and doesn't mention and obviously doesn't give a hoot about the dogs.

Bo Obama sets a good example

2010-12-22T12:32:00.006-05:00

Bo goes to Hawaii and volunteers to be quarantined just like he's a regular dog. He's not asking for special treatment just cause he's the famous First Dog, and all.

Bo Gets Quarantined

Even if you're the dog of the president of the United States, you still need to follow the rules. As the Obama family slowly trickles into Hawaii for the holidays . . ., the first dog, who is making his first trip to the island, is subject to the state's quarantine program.

Bo's setting a good example, demonstrating that we are still a nation of laws, not of dogs.

Terrorist on the loose

2010-12-17T14:57:00.003-05:00

This is no joke. This fox is running around my neighborhood. It's stressful enough going to the dog park. But now this; look at how mean and hungry and vicious he looks. I don't want to go out in my back yard; I only want to go out on walks so I can be sure I'm protected.

Euthanized?

2010-11-19T12:55:00.017-05:00

My daddy forwarded me this link, who got it from my brother. I was simply horrified what they did to Target (on the right), who is such a good dog and a hero.

Afgan Hero Dog Is Euthanized by Mistake in U.S.

Here's the key passage.

Target . . .escaped from her yard. She was captured last week and euthanized by mistake [emphasis added - ed.]

This is like a scene right out of the human "Schindler's List" movie. Maybe even you humans are starting to grasp why Canine Rights are so urgent. If 'euthanizing' wasn't an accepted practice on us dogs, maybe we could call it what it really is: MURDER. Instead this is posted in the newspapers like some kind of 'human' interest story. Would you humans react differently to a headline that read:

"Baby Euthanized by Mistake?"

Oh no, not again

2010-10-25T08:26:00.012-04:00

I haven't posted much recently. Things have been quite good with me. But then I looked at the calendar and realized it's that time of year again . . . Halloween . . . when our owners dress us up and make us look ridiculous. That's why I'm voting for the Pee Party, that group of dog advocates, who vow to end this cruel practice. For those of you who have not been paying attention to the humiliations done to us, just scan some of the pictures of what happens to some of my friends this time of year.

Justice?

2010-09-13T12:44:00.004-04:00

My daddy sent me this cautionary tail from the Washington Post, about a dog named Parrot who was gunned down in the street.

Police fatally shoot dog at Adams Morgan festival

On the one hand, Parrot certainly is a mean looking dog. And he did bite a poor poodle, maybe even a relative of mine. Just the same, you gotta wonder if the poodle wasn't asking for it. If I was approaching a dog like Parrot while out on my walk, I'd pull daddy to the other side of the street for sure. Why wasn't the poodle more careful?

But on the other hand, the cop seemed to be gunning for a canine (could of just as easily been me). Where's the justice? In this town, dogs aren't allowed to serve on juries. When has an all-human jury ever convicted a cop of violence against a member of the canine community, regardless of the evidence?

This is why I'm so big for canine rights. And that's why I'm supporting the Pee Party.

Big Pee Party Rally in Washington

2010-09-07T09:58:00.005-04:00

Here I am at this big Pee Party rally in Washington. All the big Pee Partiers were there, out supporting us dogs. And there were a lot of us dogs out there. The Pee Party has been criticized as being a breedist organization and to be sure, there were mostly only mono-breeds at the rally. But I was treated real well, even though I'm diverse. There was no name calling or anything like that, and a lot of the people pat me on the head and said I was a good boy. I tried to get up close to see Sarah Palin because I like her now that she is a Pee Partier and supports us animals. I think I caught her eye, cause when she looked my way, she gave me the 'Canine Power' raised fist salute.

Let's Go White Sox!

2010-09-01T12:13:00.002-04:00

Big news. Manny's got a new team, and so do I. He looks great, doesn't he? Like "dude, get outta my way and let me hit a home run already".

I don't know why I wasted my time with those Dodgers. I know I'm supposedly named after some old-time fat manager. But I mean, come on, look how bad they treated Manny. Anyhow, there have been a lot of real good Tommys on the White Sox, like Tommy John, Tommy Agee, Tommy Paciorek.

This is good. The White Sox are doing a whole lot better than those Dodgers and got a real chance. it's a good change for Manny and me.

Absolutely Shocking

2010-08-31T12:19:00.006-04:00

WARNING: for all you young puppies may not want to view this video; it is extremely graphic depicting canine suffering and yelping.

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=bb4_1283184704

The utter depravity of this girl. If anyone can identify her, please let me know. I would like to alert the lawful authorities.

Seven Dead in Chicago - Never Forget

2010-08-18T13:32:00.017-04:00

My mommy emailed me all about this. American Airlines, that capitalist behemoth, either through malace or gross negligance, caused the death of seven of our finest. Seven puppies -- dead in Chicago. All for the worship of the almighty profits!

I posted pictures of the seven martyrs to corporate greed, seven little puppies who will never know a Kong toy, who'll never again be scratched behind the ears, who'll never graduate from puppy school. Let's all be sure to light a candle tonight for each one . . . there's

Frankie and there's . . .

Fishbone, and there's . . .

Hannibal and there's . . .

McDuff (hey, he looks like me) and there's . . .

Patches and there's . . .

Willy Boy and last but not least there's . . .

Dolly . . . the're all gone.

Here's a little song in rememberence:

Tin airplanes and Obama's coming

They're finally on their own

This summer I hear the drumming

Seven dead in Chicago.

Baseball and I are parting ways . . .

2010-08-03T11:56:00.010-04:00

For now, that is.

Dodger stadium used to look look like this. Real exciting. Look how much they love Manny. Then Manny had some tough breaks and he's been hurt a lot.

So what do the Dodgers do? They put up some dumb advertisement for this old-time John Hancock, and even talk about kicking Manny off the team. Hard to believe after all Manny has done for them, but you can read it here:

Blog about Manny

What ever happened to old-fashioned cockapoo-type loyalty? The Dodgers could learn a lot from little guy like me.

Hey . . .

2010-06-22T13:44:00.011-04:00

wait a minute. That's my money! How do I get it back?

Pet waste removal worker finds $58 in dog poop

Tue Jun 15, 9:19 pm ET, Associated Press

ST. LOUIS – This is why your mother says to wash your hands after handling money: A St. Louis worker found $58 — packed in dog poop. Steve Wilson works for DoodyCalls Pet Waste Removal. On a recent call, he noticed money sticking out from doggie doo. Wilson wasn't sure what to do, but eventually pulled out the bills, sanitized them, placed them in a plastic zip-locked bag and returned them to the customer. It turned out to be $58.

The company said the money was torn, but the serial numbers were identifiable, which means the bills could be returned to a bank and replaced with new money.

The Association of Professional Animal Waste Specialists says Wilson is the first person in his profession to find and report money in dog poop.

Why We Sniff Each Other?

2010-06-04T14:06:00.005-04:00

I get asked this all time by humans. This human tries to put it into scientific terms:

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/my-puppy-my-self/200907/why-do-dogs-sniff-each-other

But he falls into the trap of over-analyzing and stereotyping, like this:

He sees things from the inside out, and in so doing he's developed a very simple theory of "behavior as energy," sort of the E = MC2 of animal consciousness if you will, except it would probably be written as C = ME2, where C is consciousness, M is momentum, and E is emotional energy.

See what I mean? Here, let me spell it out in simple terms: Dogs like to sniff other dogs' butts because they sniff good. Try it for yourself and you'll know.

Poor Manny

2010-05-21T10:12:00.009-04:00

It's baseball season, it's heating up, the Dodgers are now doing well, and Manny is doing well. The sheer excitement of it all has my tail wagging constantly. But what a bad break, I just read that Manny is hurt and needs a long rest:

Manny Ramirez was out of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ starting lineup on Thursday night for the second straight game because of sore little toe on his left foot.

That must hurt real bad, that sore little toe. I know my toes get real tender when I walk on gravel, so I know what it is like. I hope his little toe heals fast, because the Dodgers sure need him.

Science

2010-05-07T15:02:00.007-04:00

Whoa, check it out. It's a piece of 'petrified wood'. I learned all about it when I went site peeing last weekend. Here I am in front of the world famous Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, gaping at this tree turned into rock. Daddy said it was 'petrified'. I looked up the word and it says it means 'to stun or paralyze with terror.' Makes you wonder how that could happen to a tree? Well here's what I figured out. This tree was minding its own business right in front of the museum. And then the men hauled those dinosaurs inside and the trees became petrified, right there where they stood. Who can blame the trees; I woulda been petrified by the dinosaurs, too.

Science just fascinates me. It explains how things really work. Now if I could only figure out how that refrigerator door works . . .

Opening Day

2010-05-03T08:49:00.000-04:00

It happens every spring, opening day of the sight peeing season. My mommy and daddy took me out sight peeing for the first time of the season this past weekend. It was great to be out there sniffing and relieving myself at all these great spots.

I was a little scared at this place; those guys behind me didn’t look too friendly and daddy made me turn my back to them. But upon reflection, though, I think they were just statues.

But it was a great day. The whole time, I was whistling that old tune to myself. . . “Take me out to go sight peeing, take me out with the crowd. Buy me some hot dogs and more hot dogs; I don’t care if I never get back . . .”

Animal Cruelty

2010-04-26T08:09:00.002-04:00

The Dodgers, my favorite team, were in town this past weekend. I put on my Dodgers shirt, ruffed and pranced around the house, made it pretty clear I wanted to go to see them. Then my daddy snuck out of the house, and only later learned HE WENT TO THE GAME WITHOUT ME. I don't think that was right. He should have taken me. What do you think he should do to make it up to me?

Global Warming: I'm Convinced

2010-04-08T13:55:00.004-04:00

WOW, is it ever scorching HOT here! I can't stop panting even after lapping up some water. But that's what's so strange. Here I was less than two months ago declaring the case for global cooling to be settled science, and now, SMACK, such a sharp reversal of evidence. Is it just me, or has anyone noticed how it has been getting progressively and alarmingly hotter since February? What's going to happen to those Arctic ice caps at this rate? And it always hits the most vulnerable the hardest. This global warming is bad news for us cockapoos with all our fur. But I will persevere and keep on blogging.

US Census: a Symbol of Canine Oppression

2010-03-30T07:55:00.009-04:00

I'm just blown away by the 2010 US Census. I posted the first page of the form to the left and if you enlarge the image, you will see the number of times the words 'person' and 'people' are mentioned in yellow (approximately 16 times). I also highlighted the words 'dog' and 'canine' in bright red (exactly 0 times). You read that right; humans 16, dogs 0. We are not counted at all, not even three fifths of a human. There is some irony, if one is able to find humor in overt neglect. You are instructed to "Count all people . . . who live and sleep here most of the time." I mean, come on, who sleeps in the house more than I do?

I implore all you humans out there to record your dogs into the form so we are counted too. I know my daddy counted me.

My latest report card

2010-03-03T07:57:00.006-05:00

I got a bath and a clipping yesterday. The lady came and hustled me into her torture van. No big deal, right? I'm a big dog now, and I've learned to endure. For all the fuss and bother, I'm guessing she did a good job. My whole family says how cute I look with the little extra fur left on my tail and a not insubstantial mustache. All well and good, no news here, right? Wrong! Look at my report card.

Some of it is OK. Like this: "anal glands moderately full today and healthy." I feel good. Phewww, that's some load off my tush.

And this: "Tommy's coat, skin, and ears all appear healthy today . . ."

But here's the deal. Can you see my grade? B+, ughhh. And do you see why? "I could use more brushing and combing" it says. And whose fault is that? Not mine; it is really my mommy and daddy who are to blame. I worked real hard and was very good. But this stays on my permanent record. What if I decide to go onto graduate school? What are my chances with this ugly blot? It isn't fair.

The Pee Party & The New Palin

2010-02-23T08:17:00.007-05:00

Sarah Palin has done a remarkable job remaking herself in the opinion of the dog world. You recall she once harbored a near-fetish for killing defenseless animals and she rightly earned a lot of criticism for it. But from what I've read, she has publically reformed. I understand she has joined a growing movement of dog lovers called 'The Pee Party.' The beneficent members of the Pee Party take dogs to great places to sniff, socialize, and relieve themselves. I wish her all the success in her new endeavours. And if she decides to run for human president in 2012, she can count on my vote. Who knows; we might start having Pee Parties right there on the White House lawn!

PETA Gets It Right - Westminster Exposed

2010-02-17T08:15:00.013-05:00

The breedist festival otherwise known as the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was subjected to a dose of reality when heroic members from the People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) bravely demonstrated what they thought of the spectacle. I applaud the efforts of people like the human pictured to the left. (I know, I know, she used the ugly 'M' word, but she needs to shock people to their senses, so she can be forgiven.) And as best as I could tell, she was warmly received by the crowd at the show. No doubt, she made more than a few reconsider their values.

Not only is the dog 'show' a disgraceful display, but it is exploitative, as well. Just look at the ruff treatment this poor Neapolitan Mastiff is subjected to. His mouth is being forced open against his will, so the judge can see his teeth, as if good teeth are the measure of the worth of a dog.

Oh, by the way, Sadie, a hoity-toity, snotty Scotty 'won.' Big deal. They wouldn't even let the cockapoos compete. What are they afraid of?

Global Cooling: Settled Science

2010-02-12T08:06:00.003-05:00

Scientific evidence continues to mount about the drastic climate change we've witnessed over last few years. Here I am, experiencing my fourth winter, and by my measurements, the surface temperatures here in McLean have decreased each year. It can’t just be random chance, can it? I’ve corresponded with a number of dogs who have peer-reviewed my findings and most concur; it IS getting colder. Oh sure, there are some deniers who claim my findings are faulty. Take Shelly, the cocker spaniel with whom I recently corresponded. She actually says it’s getting hotter. But what she neglects to account for is that her owners winter in Florida and she fails to adjust for latitude. I don’t think this global cooling should be taken lightly because it is frequently the vulnerable who suffer the most. Take me, for instance. With all this coldness and snowiness, the snow cakes to my fur (see my previous post) and I have to go in my crate to melt for extended periods of time.

Now that their plan for universal pet health care has fallen flat, I call on Obama to turn his attention to climate change and fix this global cooling problem.

The Snow: A Plea for Justice

2010-02-09T08:58:00.007-05:00

Question: Is the snow my fault?

Answer: No

Question: Why must I be the one to suffer?

I refer, of course, to the snow that cakes to my fur. I can't help it. I need to go pee-pee and poo-poo, and I didn't ask for this snow. So why am to endure extended crate time, like I'm some kind of animal?

To my family, PLEASE rethink your policies.

My Family: Take Note

2010-02-04T13:17:00.008-05:00

This has been bothering me for a while, wearing this dumb jacket, that is. I don't like it, it is uncomfortable and I get all itchy and hot with it on.

So I decided to some research on my own and my studies reveal that the doggie jacket is not a good idea. Look at this article from a reputable journalistic source:

http://www.nypost.com/p/entertainment/fashion/do_dogs_need_coats_auWyzQm3VYxqUsWjyhriOM

"wearing a coat can be very dangerous for a dog, especially if it’s a heavy coat . . . Just because we [humans] feel cold, it doesn’t mean our dogs do . . .”

I'd like to pose this question to my sister, who is such an advocate of the jacket: if it's so good for me, why do you see me running away when you pick it up to put on me?

Who are you calling 'boy'?

2010-01-22T13:18:00.008-05:00

"BOY."

It's that despised word that so many of you humans use so casually when referring to us dogs. "Here BOY" or "Good BOY". If only you knew how it grates on us. It is the one complaint I've heard over and over again from countless dogs around the world. Let me tell you something: I'm not a boy; I'm a DOG and an ADULT dog, at that, and to refer to me as a 'boy' is demeaning. To my family and friends, you probably don't do it deliberately. You probably didn't know that it bothers me. But I'm saying it now; it does. So from now on, PLEASE, say "Here, TOMMY" or "Good DOG."

Thank you.

It's time to move on

2010-01-15T12:40:00.018-05:00

All you dogs out there, don't forget: "To Err is Human but to Forgive Is Canine". I'm talking about Michael Vick. Before you start a major woof-fest, let me explain. I know what you're thinking, we've all heard it: "Tommy, how could you? You can't teach an old dog new tricks." (As an aside, I'm pushing four, now, but recently learned how to 'BEG'.) I'm not going to dwell on the man's crimes; nuff's been said on that subject. But rather let's look at what I think is an apt parallel.

Once upon a time, there was this real bad breedist man named George Wallace. He wasn't very tolerant and he wouldn't let the diverse breed dogs play with his hoity-toity pure breds. Here's a picture of him (he's the one in the middle) blocking a cockapoo from entering the Tuscaloosa campus of UPS. Well, that made some people incensed and someone went so far as to plug him full a holes and he ended up in a wheel chair and it made him realize it was all because he was a bad man so he decided that he was wrong and all dogs should be able to play together. In fact, this is what he said: "I was wrong. Those days are over and they ought to be over."

Well, I think its the same with Michael Vick. He's really changed and he's a nice man now. He's been nice to dogs and he tells kids how bad he used to be. And here is what he said on that TV show: "It's wrong, man, I don't know how many times I gotta tell, I gotta say it. I mean it was wrong. I feel tremendous hurt behind what happened. And, you know, I should’ve took the initiative to stop it all. And I didn't. And I feel so bad about that now. And I know that I didn't I didn't step up. I wasn't a leader."

And I watched his football game last week and they even let him play and he threw a pass to a man who ran all the way to the end and I didn't even get mad. In fact, I just rolled over and went back to sleep.

As controversial as it is for me to say it, I believe him and I say it's time to move on.

Obamas in Hawaii

2010-01-04T10:52:00.002-05:00

Here they are in Hawaii, sans Bo. Obama tries to keep up appearances, looking happy and confident, all the while there is apparently great discord within the family.

My Kong Runneth Over

2010-01-04T10:30:00.002-05:00

My big brother is home again Don't know when he has to go back to his farm, but for the time being, I've been luxuriating in all the attention. Sometimes it's great to be a cockapoo.

Obamas head to Hawaii . . .

2009-12-24T14:49:00.003-05:00

What a lovely family. Only something seems to be missing. What could it be? Hmmm . . . Oh, I know, it's their poor dog, Bo. The Obamas have the world at their fingertips, could take their doggie anywhere. But choose to leave him behind. What kind of monsterous family has Bo been adopted into?

H1N1 -- Be sure you get vaccinated

2009-12-23T08:25:00.005-05:00

This poor guy got the swine flu, cause he has a negligent owner who would not get him vaccinated.

http://wcbstv.com/local/dog.H1N1.flu.2.1385726.html

I recommend all you dogs out there to have yourselves get the vaccine. Now is no time to be taking a chance. At first my daddy didn't want to do it. He scoffed at the idea. But then I showed him this article and now he made an appointment with my vet. DON'T TAKE THIS LIGHTLY. We could be looking at a major can-demic.

New Favorite President?

2009-12-14T08:35:00.006-05:00

Those who have been faithful to my blog know my partiality to that great non-violent, humanitarian president, Jimmy Carter. I even went out on a limb and declared him my favorite president. But recent events are forcing me to reconsider.

As I sniffed around the kitchen this past weekend, I stumbled across this photo of former president GHW Bush, with his sweet, white-haired mother. But lo and behold what the former veep/pres is holding. A cute little doggie. Does the doggie remind you of anyone? Huh? It looks like me (without the underbite). I think it's a cockapoo, maybe even one of my brothers or sisters from up there at the Autumn View Farm. I'm not positive and will send the photo off the the AFCA (American Federation of Canine Authentication). But if it comes back positive, it will give me a whole new perspective. Bush will have proven he is willing to embrace diversity in a way no previous president has. No more sickening porty dogs handed-down from stuck-up Kennedys. You'll see. Cockapoos and unabashed breed diversity will really come into their own.

I don't support the Masons

2009-12-03T09:16:00.007-05:00

I had a very nice sight-peeing walk with my daddy last week. We walked all around Alexandria. Here you can see me in front of the famous Masonic Temple with a picture of me next this guy named George Washington. He's famous because he has a nice house on the Potomac River. Remember? I posted a photo of me last year in his back yard.

Maybe you didn't notice it before, but it's hard to miss it here. There is a remarkable resemblance between me and this Washington fellow, don't you think?

Well, my daddy and I wanted to walk up close to the place and maybe do a little peeing on it. But before we could get much closer, a mean man yelled at us to 'get off the property.' So this is as close as I could get, off to the side behind a fence. It's not right. Those Masons, whatever they are, are anti-dog and I don't recommend you join them.

Open Letter to My Big Brother

2009-11-25T09:30:00.010-05:00

Dear Big Brother,

I am trying to be a serious blogger and infuse my blog with commentary on issues and events that are important or of interest to the canine and human communities. But some of your comments have been off-topic at best and inane at worst. Let me give you some examples:

On October 3, I posted an entry titled "Cockapoo Pride" in which I hightlighted a heart-warming tail of PC the cockapoo, who came away a big winner at a local dog show, infusing pride in the entire cockapoo community. Your comment was somewhat inappropriate, bordering on breedist: "i wouldn't go so far as to say that the cockapoo is an actual type of "breed." the so-called 'cockapoo' is a type of mut. not breed."

On September 8, I posted an entry titled "An Open Letter to My Mommy and Daddy", where I argued quite convincingly that it was discriminatory for them to eat lavish human foods, right in front of me, then offer up only dry kibbles in my dog dish. My motives were not selfish, rather this has been a persistent complaint from dogs world-wide. Your comment? Let me quote: "Tommy, you look deep in thought in this picture. i like it."

But maybe the worst, most egregious example occurred for my November 14 post, titled "Sure Miss My Mom", where my dear, sweet mother Cherokee revealed a terrible tail of mistreatment and suffering. Here, I quote your comment in full: "Tommy i can't see your fang in this picture."

Big brother, I have been told that you are relatively intellegent, by human standards at least. We do welcome your participation. But I wish you would try to stay on topic and offer my readers more than human drivel.

Sure miss my mom

2009-11-14T14:38:00.002-05:00

I haven't seen nor heard from my mom in a long time. I got so lonesome for her that I put her picture up on my crate, so she can look down on my with those gentle, soothing eyes. I sure miss her (and even the whole gang back at the Autumn View Farm). If you know anything about her, how she's getting on, you'll be sure to let me know, won't you?

Climate Change Solution?

2009-11-10T14:08:00.003-05:00

I'm as scared about the warming planet as the next dog. It's hot enough out there, especially with all my fur. Now, I'm willing to do my part such as: only eating locally produced steak,chicken, and hamburger, going bye-bye only in hybrid cars, pass wind less often, personally pick through the garbage to cut down on refuse, and go pee-pee in the dark in the back yard. But I think these New Zealand researchers, Bob and Brenda Vale, are taking things too far, like suggesting that we dogs are the problem and we should be eaten rather than fed. That's going too far. What do you think?

http://www.theweek.com/article/index/102445/Climate_change_Time_to_eat_Fido

Say it ain't so, Bo

2009-10-28T08:19:00.004-04:00

It's a sad state in this country. It's not enough that the media suck up to our president, and all those sycophants let him win at basketball, now even his own dog is taking a dive, letting the president beat him at football. Like that skinny wimp could score on Bo, if Bo hadn't let him.

And look at Obama grinning and gloating at his football prowess, thinking he's so great. Doesn't anyone have the nerve to tell him the truth, speak truth to power, that Bo's letting him win?

And what's with the leash on Bo in his own back yard. Very cruel, Mr. President, very cruel.

By the way, did you notice that Bo is looking a little chunky? Too much veal, no doubt. Doesn't his family coordinate his treats, like mine does?

Happy Birthday, Bo

2009-10-27T13:06:00.005-04:00

Bo Obama turned one year old recently and had a big party. I was invited but elected to not go, choosing to nap, instead. But from what I heard, it was a wild affair:

We had a really sweet celebration," admitted Mrs Obama. "He got a doghouse cake made out of veal stuff and he had his brother Cappy come over and we had party hats."

I do get a little jealous, though. Here Bo is getting veal, which I never even had. All I get is bologna and hamburger and chicken and turkey.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/barackobama/6425473/It-is-not-a-dogs-life-for-Americas-first-canine.html

AP poll: Pet owners willing to go mouth-to-snout to save dogs

2009-10-26T10:33:00.003-04:00

Important new study. All you humans should learn how to help us dogs, who are some of the most vulnerable beings.

63% of dog owners . . . would be at least somewhat likely to perform CPR on their pet.

I know my mommy and daddy would do this for me. And of course they know I would do it for them too. I wonder about you. Would your owner know how?

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/pawprintpost/post/2009/10/ap-poll-pet-owners-willing-to-go-mouth-to-muzzle-to-save-dogs-cats/1

Dodger blues

2009-10-22T08:26:00.004-04:00

Am I blue?

Ain't these tears in my eyes tellin' you?

Am I blue?

You'd be too.

Cause my team lost it all, now they're through.

There was a time I was the waggy one,

Now I'm the sad and droopy one.

Was I gay?

Till today?

Now they're gone,

Say so long,

Am I blue?

Woof, Woof Dodgers

2009-10-09T09:29:00.002-04:00

Woof Dodgers woof woof woof woof woof. Woof woof woof home run woof woof woof woof woof woof woof! Woof woof woof woof woof woof woof woof, poor Braves. Woof woof Dodgers woof woof woof woof woof woof woof woof woof woof woof woof Manny woof woof woof woof woof.

Woof woof woof woof pitching woof. Woof woof woof woof Cardinals woof woof woof woof woof woof woof. Woof woof woof woof woof woof woof, woof woof woof woof.

Dodger Blue Mania

2009-10-05T08:37:00.003-04:00

Can you feel it? I've waited a whole year for this, after last year's bitter, bitter defeat by those Phillies. All the dogs I know are super-enthused by the Dodgers, strutting and woofing all around their houses. Daddy even said he will let me stay up late to watch their games if they run long.

In honor of this great Dodgers season, I've changed my middle name to 'Manny.' So please, if you see me or write to me, call me 'Tommy M.'

Cockapoo Pride

2009-10-03T09:25:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to PC, a cockapoo who came away as a big winner in Fanwood New Jersey.

A two-year old Cockapoo named PC won Best in Show at the annual dog show at The Chelsea At Fanwood. . . As the winner, PC earned an all-expense paid, one night stay at K-9 Resorts, an upscale pet borading business in Fanwood which features rooms instead of cages. Each room has a television and a bed.

It's about time we cockapoos got our recognition for being the high quality breed that we are. PC competed against several other breeds:

A total of 15 dogs were entered including Chihuahuas, Bijon Frises, a Greyhound, a Golden Retriever and various rescue dogs of [diverse] breeds.

I read that the Golden Retriever came in second. Second prize? Two nights at the K-9 Resorts.

www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20090920/GETPUBLISHED/909200324/Dogshowwinnerearnsabnightofluxury

WHAT? What's Going On Here?

2009-09-16T12:37:00.003-04:00

Vick Set to Practice With Eagles

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/15/AR2009091503239.html

Why wasn't I informed of this? Surely this must be a joke, right? Those humans won't let him come back and play football, will they?

Can someone please clarify?

UD

2009-09-14T07:58:00.003-04:00

Mommy and Daddy took me for a tour of the University of Delaware this past weekend. I liked it, though it is a little far. The new university president is making a concerted effort to improve diversity. Their latest numbers show a woeful lack of canine enrollment. I met with an admissions advisor who was impressed with my background. On the basis of my degree from UPS-FC, she offered me a free ride at Delaware for all four years, without even seeing my transcript. It's a good offer. And UD is reputed to have a young, but improving Canine Studies department. Their most popular offerings are in Napping and Fetching. I probably don't need much instruction in the former, but would benefit immensely from a series of classes in the latter. Well, I don't know, I don't want to commit too soon. I'll keep you posted.

Another Open Letter to Mommy and Daddy

2009-09-08T09:24:00.004-04:00

I've had it and won't take it anymore. You have a very unhappy cockapoo, I'm sorry to say. Every day I observe a parade of delicious food march from the refrigerator to the table and watch as you gorge yourselves. I sit quietly at your sides, staring intently, often giving a brief, quick tail wag to ensure my wishes are clearly understood. Then finally comes my dinner. And what do I get? Kibbles, kibbles, and more kibbles. Does the steak ever land in my bowl? the turkey? the chicken? cheese? or how about the Honey Nut Cherrios? or waffles? No, no, no, no, no and no! Well, I've been Mr. Nice-a-poo for too long. I know my rights and I want some of that people food too.

I'm Feeling Better, Thank You

2009-08-31T08:06:00.005-04:00

I've almost fully recovered and only slightly worse for the wear. As some of you know, I was sick late last week. I only wanted to rest, but for some inexplicable reason, daddy took me to that place with the other dogs and those sadistic people. I usually see the sadistic lady, but this time I saw a sadistic man. I tried to hide under the chair, but daddy picked up the chair, leaving me totally exposed for our latter day Dr. Mangele. He picked my up ruffly and then he poked and prodded and stuck his finger up my tush. Then he handed me over to his evil assistant, who stuck me with needles until I felt one of my well-chewed chew toys. Finally we left. How can daddy do that to me when I'm feeling so sickly? But then I started feeling better later in the day and even did my patented 'twirl', counter-clockwise, no less, for a piece of bologna. So you know I must have been feeling pretty good by then.

Back from my absence

2009-08-25T12:44:00.005-04:00

Hey everyone. Wondering why I hadn't posted for so long? For some unexplained reason, mommy and daddy left me with a nice lady for a long time. Every time I tried to get on the computer to do some blogging, she scolded me and and said "no, no, doggies don't use computers" (technically not true, because we all know there is at least one dog who uses computers). But otherwise, she was real nice and let me sleep on the bed and all. She was home and played with me and took me for walks and was thoughtful enough to give me chicken-stuffed kongs for a treat each night (what a conicidence, just like home). Once she took me to the dog park, but I was pretty scared and she didn't take me back there. There were other dogs in her apartment to play with. There was the big golden-doodle, Bozo. He was a little too big to play ruff with, but we had some long, intense conversations. Then he left and a little doggie named Powder Puff came to stay with us. She was more my size and we played ruff sometimes. All in all, I had a good time and I was on my best behavior and had no accidents! And I overheard the nice lady tell my daddy that I was one of the best dogs who ever stayed with her.

Purrfectly pawsible explanation

2009-08-10T11:55:00.005-04:00

Interesting story from the Sun Sentinel:

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/sfl-cat-downloads-porn-bn080709,0,6415792.story

But why won't the police believe his explanation?

MARTIN COUNTY - Martin County Sheriff's detectives didn't buy it when a 48-year-old Jensen Beach man claimed that his cat was downloading child pornography on his computer.Keith R. Griffin, of the 3600 block of Northeast Jeannette Drive, was charged Wednesday with 10 counts of possession of child pornography after detectives found more than 1,000 child pornographic images on his computer, according to a news release.Griffin told detectives he would leave his computer on and his cat would jump on the keyboard.When he returned, there would be strange material downloaded, the release states.Griffin was being held in the Martin County Jail in lieu of $250,000 bail.

Taco Bell Dog -- We Hardly Knew Ya

2009-07-24T13:05:00.004-04:00

Gidget, the Taco Bell dog, one of my all-time favorite celebrities was euthanized, this week. She was 15 years young.

http://www.philly.com/philly/living/pets/20090722_ap_tacobelladstargidgetthechihuahuadiesat15.html

She was fiesty right up to the end, reportedly "otherwise in good health up to the day of her death, eating well and playing with her favorite squeaky toys ".

Gidget always held a special place in my heart, because like me, she "wasn't show quality . . . had an undershot jaw and huge ears".

Check out my new toys

2009-07-13T18:12:00.003-04:00

My sister is gone so daddy said I can have her toys. You can see me here. I'm kinda "chomping at the bit" to get at 'em, but daddy is making me 'stay'. But then we played some tug-a-war.

Fireman kills pets to save on boarding!

2009-06-25T12:07:00.004-04:00

Yep, you read that right: http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/local_news/stories/2009/06/25/fire_dog.ART_ART_06-25-09_A1_DSE9JB8.html?sid=101

A Columbus firefighter admits that he took his two dogs to the basement, tied them up and blasted them with a rifle so he and a girlfriend could vacation without paying to board the animals.

If I didn't read it with my own two eyes, I wouldn't have believed it. Common mythology has it that firemen and dogs are best buds, like the photo you see here. Well, apparently it's all for publicity and the firemen are bad, dog-hating people, even worse the president.

On a personal note, my mommy and daddy have gone away a few times, but never killed me to save on boarding. I get to go to that nice lady's house who walks me, and feeds me, and let's me sleep on her bed with my good friend Mini.

Hide and Go Sniff

2009-06-11T13:05:00.004-04:00

That's the name of my new favorite game that my daddy invented. He hides a yummy treat, like turkey or bologna, and I have to go sniff it out. And when I find it, I get to eat it.

Sounds pretty easy, you say? Well go try it and then tell me. My daddy makes it real hard. He makes me wait in the dining room with the door closed and he goes into the kitchen and hides the treat in some pretty obscure places, like behind a leg of the bench, or near my toy basket, or clear over by the shoes. But no matter how well it's hidden, I don't give up and keep sniffing until I find it. So far, I've never been beaten at the game.

One time I bent the rules a little bit. While he was doing the hiding, I went around the other way, through the foyer into the kitchen. He yelled at me good and disqualified me for the rest of the day. So I'm gonna play by the rules now.

Thanks to My Grandma

2009-05-15T08:29:00.002-04:00

My grandma made this food for me and it's delicious. She calls her secret recipe "Grammy's Pot Pie" and I gobble it up as soon as the dish hits the floor. These are the best kibbles I ever ate. I hope she keeps making it and sending up our way.

My Favorite President

2009-05-08T11:17:00.004-04:00

I wish I had a slice of bologna every time I've been asked "Tommy, who is your favorite president?" So I'll take this opportunity to once and for put an end to this burning question. It should come as no big surprise to the astute reader that my farovite president is Jimmy Carter. After all, we are a lot alike. 1) We both spent time down on the farm in our youths. 2) We are both considered to be very smart -- by some estimates, Carter had the highest IQ of any president and as for me, well, with all due humility, how many dogs do you know who blog? 3) We are both big believers in rights, Jimmy for the human variety, I for the canine variety. You can even see from the picture here that Jimmy is against Apartheid. He thinks all people should be friends and live happily together and who can be against that? and 4) Perhaps most remarkably, both Jimmy and I are non-violent.

I'd like to address this last comparison at some length, if I may. It's well known that when I go to the dog park, I try to keep a low profile and stay away from the aggressive and mean dogs. If they want to play ruff and I can't get away, then I'll roll over. Well, it was no different with Jimmy. When as a boy he was on the playground, the bullies would come over and push him around and put gum in his hair. But Jimmy wouldn't fight. Instead he would cite some school resolution against gum or whatever and when that would produce riotous laugher more taunts, he would run away vowing to take his complaints to the principal. Pretty smart strategy I'd say. And when Jimmy became president, he stayed true to himself. When the Ayatolla metaphorically lifted his leg and pee'd right on Jimmy's pant leg (well, in actuality, the Ayatolla took some hostages), Jimmy didn't want to fight and tried to reason with the Ayatolla. When that didn't work, Jimmy went crying to the UN. I was a little disappointed to learn that Jimmy was finally goaded into a little fight, but of course his heart wasn't in it and it didn't go so well for the US. Finally Jimmy returned to form and vowed to go to his room (well actually the Rose Garden) and not come out until the Ayatolla released the hostages. And let me point out, Jimmy's strategy worked! After he was voted out of office, the Ayatolla agreed to return the hostages and who was the first to greet their return? Why none other than my favorite president.

So there you have it. I wonder who your favorite president is. Please feel free to comment.

No Pate for Me, Thank You

2009-05-05T13:10:00.006-04:00

What do you think of this new study?

Study: Dog Food Tastes Just Like Pâté

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/05/01/tech/main4984433.shtml

It says that pate tastes just like dog food. Well no thank you. I'll stick with steak, hamburger, chicken, bologna, and bacon, please.

Andruw and Manny II

2009-05-01T08:42:00.004-04:00

I'm sorry to say, just as I feared, I got myself in trouble with my brother because of my last post on Andruw (sic) and Manny. He's mad at me because I said I like Manny more. He e-mailed me some stuff about Andruw I neglected to point out. So I just want to set the record straight. My brother told me Andruw has all these 'gold gloves' and Manny doesn't. I guess if my brother says so, it must be true, he's pretty smart after all. But I'm not real sure how this helps play baseball. And why would Andruw need these things anyway? He played in Atlanta and Los Angeles and now he's been shipped out to Texas for one last gasp. These places are all real warm in the summer. Manny played in Boston and Cleveland, so maybe he needed some of those gloves more, but Andruw is the one who has them.

Oh well, I hope this clears things up between my brother and me. I'll be watching these two guys through the season and maybe report back on their progress.

A Tail of Two Outfielders

2009-04-28T11:50:00.006-04:00

I sure dislike being in the middle of a family controversy like this. But I do like baseball, so here goes:

My daddy likes this outfielder, named Manny Rameriz. Manny has 536 homers, a career average of .315, a career OBP of .411, two world championships and is 36 years old.

My brother likes this outfielder whose name is Andruw. Andruw Jones has 373 homers, a career average of .260, unfortunately has never won the world championship and is, well, no one but Andruw and maybe his mother know how old Andruw really is.

I hate to say this, but sorry, big brother. I gotta go with my daddy on this one. I like Manny too.

I'm not bitter, really

2009-04-15T12:47:00.006-04:00

When I first heard the news that the Obamas got a Portuguese Water Dog, I was shocked, it was like a dagger to my anal glands. After all, President Obama promised me he would get his daughters a small, furry cockapoo, with floppy ears and a short stubby tail (see my last blog entry). Obama does not seem like the sort of president to go back on his word. And we all know how badly Sasha wanted the cockapoo. Fortunately Sasha wrote me an e-mail to explain the whole thing:

Tommy,

You should know that daddy wanted to get the cockapoo. But then Uncle Teddy showed up at our door with this porty and forced us to take it. I didn't want it, but daddy said it would not be nice to refuse a gift from such a big man. I don't like the dog, but my bratty sister does. I hope you are not mad. Love Sasha.

In all honesty, Bo is a good looking dog . . . for a porty, that is. As disappointed as I was, I've been following the Bo story closely. Here, I found this good article:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/14/AR2009041402306.html

It does seem like Sasha doesn't like the dog so much. While Malia was giving hugs, Sasha could find nothing nice to say, and merely uttered: "He doesn't know how to swim!" .

As can be expected, Bo is exploring his new digs: Bo led the way, jumping and sprinting, with Michelle Obama firmly gripping the leash. Apparently, the White House lawn has many irresistible scents. The little guy found much to sniff . . .

Bo, let me offer some advice. I've been down there. There isn't too much to sniff. It's a very sterile environment, no other dogs around, so no dog urine or any other such alluring fragrances.

And did you notice that President Obama is still the dog hater: He will not, and the president left no doubt about this, be bedding down in the presidential bedroom. Asked where Bo would sleep, Obama replied, "Not with me."

I Will Survive

2009-04-07T22:12:00.005-04:00

These famous words from the old disco song have real meaning for me right now. My nice family has given me away to another family. They just dumped me off with barely a good bye. My big sister didn't even come with me to wish me farewell. But it's OK here. I will survive. Tami, the new lady, treats me well. She feeds me and gives me my Kong with chicken and lets me sleep on the bed and all. So I'm not mistreated. And there are dogs to play with here, especially Mini. I'm a little scared of her, but not nearly as scared as I am of the shelties, but they mostly ignore me. I've grown quite fond of Bubba, the Beagle; we've become quite close. And I even have the opportunity to go on the computer, so I intend to continue blogging, for sure. But I miss my old family. Why did you give me away?

On an unrelated note, my pick of North Carolina in the NCAA tournament and subsequent recommendation to President Obama earned a glowing e-mail from the human Commander in Chief, a portion of which I copied below:

Dear Tommy,

I can't thank you enough for recommending the Tar Heels to me. Your pick enabled me to win our household pool. Sasha scored higher than I did, but picked Oklahoma to emerge as the champion. That was my opening, and North Carolina's win sealed victory for me. I can't tell you what a ride it's been for me. First the White House, now this! I should tell you that we all agreed that the winner of the pool has the right to select the breed of the new family dog (of course provided it can be rescued from a shelter). In honor of you, I will select the cockapoo . . .

Sincerely,

President Barack Obama

Poodles Rated #2

2009-03-31T10:43:00.008-04:00

Check out the latest results from PetMD's list of the 10 smartest canine breeds in the world.

http://www.divinecaroline.com/article/22063/68520-boy--world-s-ten-smartest-dogs

We poodles came in #2 just behind the #1 Border Collie, at least according to this ranking. The Border Collie is a good dog, no question about it. But I wonder if the good folks at PetMD are truly disinterested. Or might it be that one or more of the PetMD folks have Border Collies of their own? Hmm. It's worth investigating. But in the meantime, we poodles will just try a little harder.

Bracket Update

2009-03-23T07:38:00.005-04:00

Very exciting weekend in the NCAA tournament. Here is my big brother's bracket. It got busted a little bit. But he did well while it lasted. Unfortunately, all his teams are out now, but he made some noise while it lasted and he finished with a respectable 19 points. Better luck next year, Big Brother.

By comparison, here's my bracket. You can tell it's mine because I signed it. Daddy helped me make my mark on the page. But my paw got a little dirty and big sister snitched on daddy and me to mommy who got mad at us. As chance would have it, I'm doing a little better than my big brother. I have 48 points through the first two rounds and all my teams are left except for Wake Forest. I was impressed by their speed and depth, but unfortunately they were plagued by a couple of injuries I neglected to factor into my calculations. Anyway, I'm in good shape and have North Carolina winning it all. Incidentally, I got a call from President Obama last Tuesday as he was working through his brackets, and I had two words of advice for him: "Go Heels". Apparently he took it to heart and he too went with North Carolina.

B.B.B.

2009-03-17T08:15:00.005-04:00

BIG BROTHER'S BRACKET

My big brother is off at his farm and said he wouldn't be able to complete his NCAA bracket this year. So he let me do it for him. That's a lot of pressure because he has always done well. I made all the picks (my daddy wrote them in) and posted it here, on my blog. I figured it was the best way to get it to him, and now he can follow along during the whole tournament and see how he's doing.

He has Maryland going all the way. I watched them a lot on TV and they won some big games down the stretch. I've watched the coach and he seems like he gets uncontrollably mad when they don't do well. So I figure the players will do good or else their coach may go berserk and someone might wind up dead. No one would want that.

And I picked some upsets, too, cause I heard there are a lot of them in the tournament. Like Morgan State to beat Oklahoma. OK, it was a sentemental pick because, you see, the school is close to my farm, Autumn View a few miles away in Mt. Airy. All the dogs on the farm, like Cody and Cherokee and Milk Toast and Gizmo, will be pulling for Morgan State, and so will I and now also my big brother.

And I picked Binghamton to do good too. My big brother visited there a while ago and he told me all about it. He said it was a dreary place and so I figure there isn't too much to do there if you're a basketball player but practice. So they'll be ready for Duke, I'm sure.

So good luck to my big brother.

Joyful Reunion

2009-03-13T08:43:00.006-04:00

Yup, my big brother came home for a nice visit. It had been so long since he stalked me around the house, picked me up all the time and kidnapped me in the middle of the night. I almost forgot what it was like. And he took me for a long hike in the snow. It was fun, but when I got back, I had snowballs caked to my fur and daddy threw me in my crate to melt. It was lonely in there, but I understood. I thought my big brother was going to stay, but he said no, he had to go back to his farm. So we both laughed a little and cried a little and he pet me and said I was a good boy and gave me some treats. I looked up his farm on the internet. You see, it's in Arad and I found this picture. Doesn't look like there are any goats or cockapoos or dobermans. And the farm house doesn't look too cozy; it's all broken down and no roof. Not even any beds or couches to go under for a nap. What kind of farm is this?

House of Horrors for Sale

2009-03-10T16:42:00.003-04:00

Check it out - Michael Vick's house is for sale. And what? No one wanted it? Well duhhh.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090310/ap_on_sp_fo_ne/fbn_vick_s_house

It's too freaky just thinking about it. Can you imagine what might have gone down in the inner bowels of that place.

I know some of you humans don't get my obsession with Vick. OK, let's put it this way. Remember Charles Manson? All you humans used to be obsessed with him. Real evil guy, or whatever. I'm sure he was (but I think he was good to his dogs). Well, what if Charles Manson's old house was for sale? Would you run off and buy it? . . . I didn't think so.

Seriously, can we talk dog food?

2009-02-13T16:03:00.005-05:00

There's been a continual 'tug-of-war' in our house over the brand of dog food I like. Mommy, you insist I like the Pro Plan the best. But let me set the record straight. Cowboy Cookout (seen here on the left) is my favorite. I savor the tender kibbles. I won't eat it all at once, but slowly throughout the course of the day. I'm not crazy about the peas, corn, and carrots, but I know they're good for me in small quantities. So thank you to my daddy for getting it for me. The Prime Select lamb from New Zealand (pictured here on the right) is not as good. When it's put down in my dish, I eat all up as quickly as possible to get it over with, holding my nose the whole time. So PLEASE, I've been craving my Cowboy Cookout so much and it's been so long.

Congrats to Stump (for his partial victory)

2009-02-11T12:57:00.005-05:00

I was riveted by the Westminster Dog Show competition last night and was thrilled when Stump, the Sussix Spaniel, was named "Best in Monobreed Show". You can see here, Stump is fine looking dog, just the right size, floppy ears, short stubby tail (remind you of anybody?). Yep, Stump is a distant relative if mine.

But it is a hollow victory. Because the WKC is a breedist organization, a vast number of the dog population has been excluded from competition. There should be a similar diverse breed competition followed by a dog-on-dog face-off. Only then could Stump be considered a true world champion.

And I'm not alone feeling this way. The PETA organization, a group I heartily support, protested the dog show. Look at this article. They even dressed up in funny costumes.

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/2009-02-09-peta-westminster-kkk-protest_N.htm

Summary Justice

2009-02-05T08:41:00.005-05:00

Sad story, no doubt, what happened to this poor human baby:

http://www.wvec.com/news/topstories/stories/wvec_local_020209_child_pit_bull_bite_nn.10c29288.html

And if the dog really did it, he should be punished. But did he deserve this?

The dog was seized, euthanized and was being tested for rabies, although its shots were up to date.

No miranda rights read, no gathering of evidence, no arraignment, no trial. They took him out back and slaughtered him, and only THEN checked for rabies. Because it's a canine, it's shoot first, ask questions later.

OK, we're dogs. But we only ask for due process, the same protection all others are entitled to. I'm taking this to the CCLU.

My Band of Brothers

2009-02-02T13:08:00.001-05:00

As you probably know if you've kept up with my blog, I'm considering a return to school to earn an advanced degree in Canine Studies. Then I met these brave soldiers and we developed this real esprit de corps; they treated me like one of their own and told me I'd make a great military dog. So I'm a little undecided right now. I understand RDTC is a viable option, but Georgetown U, my first choice, kicked the RDTC off campus last year, bowing to the demands of a vocal student minority. So what do you think I should do?

This Land Is Your Land, but . . .

2009-01-28T16:20:00.007-05:00

It's not my land.

Congrats to Obama, major milestone for our country. But don't mistake the election of one particularly articulate man as an indication that all civil rights have been won and the battle's over.

I think most of you know that no dog has ever been US president. But I bet you didn't know that no dog has ever served as a member of Congress. In fact, no dog has even been NOMINATED for Congress on a major party ticket . . . ever. Recent population statistics place the canine population of this country at over 20 million, an extraordinary number that exceeds many other minority groups. Yet dogs continue to exist in unspeakable squalor and filth in percentages far exceeding any other group in America. There are countless documented cases of whining and crying all day in tiny cages not even fit for animals. Euthanasia is illegal in this country, that is, for those who have representation in government. But did you know that countless dogs are euthanized every single day, then cremated or tossed in unmarked graves?

Don't ask me to celebrate Obama's election while so many still suffer under the thumb of discrimination. How long are we canines to accept systematic disenfranchisement?

One Last Appeal

2009-01-21T08:35:00.006-05:00

Dear Sasha, Malia, Michelle, and Barack (or is it Mr. President, now?),

I understand you have 'agreed upon' either the Labradoddle or the Portuguese Water Dog (I wonder how much Sasha's vote counted in your 'Democratic' household?). I can speak from experience that the labradoddle is a fine animal, and likely a distant relative of mine. (The Portuguese Water Dog? One you might happen to stumble across in a shelter? I don't know anything about the breed, but perhaps you can explain the qualities with your legendary soaring rhetoric.)

But I'd like to make one final appeal for the cockapoo. I attached this photo so you might picture what your lawn would look like with an actual cockapooo. All you have to do is imagine a doggie just like me ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE FENCE. Can't you picture a small, furry, cockapoo with floppy ears and a short stubby tail romping, playing and fetching on that vast lawn? And how the tourists would 'OOOO' and 'AHHHH' seeing a cute little guy like me. I suggest you call down to the Autumn View Farm and have them send little cockapoo to a shelter so you can go rescue it.

Brrrrr

2009-01-19T08:54:00.002-05:00

It was so cold this past weekend that I just wanted to stay in the house and snooze. By my daddy bundled me up and took me out to a park on the river for a long walk. You can see me here in my green jacket. Notice the river in the background is practically frozen! I don't usually like wearing my jacket preferring to go au naturale. But I was sure glad I wore it this day. It helped keep me a little toastier. He made me sit to pose for this picture and I didn't want to because my tush was real cold on the concrete. And he took more than one picture so I had to keep sitting and sitting. It was a long walk and I never could seem to warm up. We crossed a couple of streams and daddy carried me across, and this time I was glad he did. You see, daddy uses the stepping stones but I have trouble figuring them out so I usually just plod through the water. But by this time, the my paws were already numb from cold and no telling how bad it would be if I had to walk through that frigid water.

You know, in the end, I did have a good time. But I only hope for a little more warmth the next time we go for this hike.

My Continuing Quest for Knowledge

2009-01-15T12:36:00.004-05:00

I guess the word is out. I've been quietly scouting institutions of higher learning, to continue my formal education. I plan to bolster my degree from UPS-FC with an advanced degree in Canine Studies. I've visited a number of campuses and intend to matriculate next fall. Here I am during my visit to Georgetown. Georgetown is reputed to have the top Canine Studies program in the Mid-Atlantic. So it's high on my list. I'd like to stay close to home, you know, so I can come home to a home-cooked Kong on the weekends.

Eight Crazy Nights

2009-01-06T08:37:00.005-05:00

OK, I only got presents on one of the nights, but it was exciting nonetheless. Here I am posing with my new toys. I got a wrestling doggie and a platypus from my mommy and daddy and a rubber doggie from my aunt and uncle. I like the rubber doggie the best but they kept insisting it was the wrong toy. Dumb luck, I guess. My uncle was mean to me; he pushed me away and yelled at me and I was only trying to be friendly. But he made up for it with a nice toy. It squeaks and everything.