"Tart"(Fouroaks Rollnthehayof Heaven) is a brand new mother! She gave birth to 3 boys and 2 girls and all seem healthy at this point. Tart is being a very diligent but relaxed mom. Puppies were born May 5th/08. I'll keep you all posted as they grow and develop.

Puppy Size - Author Unknown

'Danielle keeps repeating it over and over again. We've been back to this
animal shelter at least five times. It has been weeks now since we started
all of this,' the mother told the volunteer.

'What is it she keeps asking for?' the volunteer asked.

'Puppy size!' replied the mother.

'Well, we have plenty of puppies, if that's what she's looking for.'

'I know...we have seen most of them,' the mom said in frustration...

Just then Danielle came walking into the office

'Well, did you find one?' asked her mom. 'No, not this time,' Danielle said
with sadness in her voice. 'Can we come back on the weekend?'

The two women looked at each other, shook their heads and laughed.

'You never know when we will get more dogs. Unfortunately, there's always a
supply,' the volunteer said.

Danielle took her mother by the hand and headed to the door. 'Don't worry,
I'll find one this weekend,' she said.

Over the next few days both mom and dad had long conversations with her.

They both felt she was being too particular. 'It's this weekend or we're not
looking any more,' Dad finally said in frustration.

'We don't want to hear anything more about puppy size either,' Mom added.

Sure enough, they were the first ones in the shelter on Saturday morning. By
now Danielle knew her way around, so she ran right f! or the section that
housed the smaller dogs.

Tired of the routine, mom sat in the small waiting room at the end of the
first row of cages. There was an observation window so you could see the
animals during times when visitors weren't permitted.

Danielle walked slowly from cage to cage, kneeling periodically to ! take a
closer look. One by one, the dogs were brought out and she held each one.

One by one she said, 'Sorry, you're not the one.'

It was the last cage on this last day in search of the perfect pup.

The volunteer opened the cage door and the child carefully picked up the dog
and held it closely. This time she took a little longer.

'Mom, that's it! I found the right puppy! He's the one! I know it!' she
screamed with joy. 'It's the puppy size!'

'But it's the same size as all the other puppies you held over the last few
weeks,' Mom said.

'No not size... the sighs. When I held him in my arms, he sighed,' she said.

'Don't you remember? When I asked you one day what love is, you told me love
depends on the sighs of your heart. The more you love, the bigger the sigh!'

The two women looked at each other for a moment. Mom didn't know whether to
laugh or cry. As she ! stooped down to hug the child, she did a little of
both.

'Mom, every time you hold me, I sigh. When you and Daddy come home from work
and hug each other, you both sigh. I knew I would find the right puppy if it
sighed when I held it in my arms,' she said.

Then holding the puppy up close to her face she said, 'Mom, he loves me. I
heard the sighs of his heart!'

Close your eyes for a moment and think about the love that makes you sigh. I
not only find it in the arms of my loved ones, but in the caress of a
sunset, the kiss of the moonlight and the gentle brush of cool air on a hot
day.

They are the sighs of God! Take the time to stop and listen

Author: Laurinda Morris, DVM
Danville Veterinary Clinic
Danville, OHIO

This week I had the first case in history of raisin toxicity ever seen at MedVet. My patient was a 56 pound, 5 yr old male lab mix that ate half a canister of raisins sometime between 7:30 am and 4:30 pm on Tuesday. He started with vomiting, darrhea and shaking about 1 am on Wednesday but the owner didn't call my emergency service until 7 am.

I had heard somewhere about raisins and grapes causing acute renal failure but hadn't seen any formal paper on this. We had her bring the dog in immediately. In the meantime, I called the ER service at MedVet, and the doctor there was like me - had heard something about it, but...
anyway, we contacted the ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center and they said to give IV fluids at 1 1/2 times maintenance and watch the kidney values for the next 48-72 hours.

The dog's BUN (blood urea nitrogen level) was already at 32 (normal is less than 27) and creatine over 5 (1.9 is the high end of normal). Both are bloodstream monitors of kidney function. We placed an IV catheter and started the fluids. Rechecked the renal values at 5 pm and the BUN was over 40 and creatinine over 7 with no urine production after a liter of fluids. At that point I felt the dog was in acute renal failure and sent him on to MedVet for a urinary catheterr to monitor urine output overnight as well as overnight care.

He started vomiting again overnight at MedVet and his renal values have continued to increase daily. He produced urine when given lasix as a diuretic. He was on 3 different anti-vomiting medications and they still couldn't control his vomiting. Today his urine output decreased again - his BUN was over 120, his creatinine was at 10, his phosphorous was very elevated and his blood pressure, which had been staying around 150, skyrocketed to 220. He continued to vomit and the owners elected to euthanize.

This is a very sad case - great dog, great owners who had no idea raisins could be a toxin. Please alert everyone you know of this very serious risk. poison control said as few as 7 raisins or grapes could be toxic. Many people I know give their dogs raisins or grapes as treats, including our ex-handlers. Any exposure should give rise to immediate concern.

http://www.snopes.com/critters/crusader/raisins.asp

* Also chocolate, onions and macadamia nuts are very toxic for dogs.

With some people you just don't have a chance...

If you talk about dogs, you're a know-it-all; if you dont, you're a snob.

If you don't stop to chat at a show, success has gone to your head; if you do, you're a show-off.

If your dogs are at all the shows, you're not letting others have a chance; if your dogs aren't at all the shows, you're afraid of the competition.

If your dog wins, you know the judges; if they don't win, you know nothing about breeding.

If you win and thank the judge, you're playing politics; if you win and don't thank the judge, you're rude.

If you lose and congratulate the winner, you're a hypocrite; if you lose and don't thank the winner, you're a poor sport.

If you've been breeding less than 20 years, you're a novice; if you've been breeding for more than 20 years, you should step down and let the newcomers have a chance.

If you use your own stud, you're kennel blind; if you go outside for stud services, you don't think much of your own breeding.

If you sell most of your puppies, they aren't good enough to keep; if you keep them, you can't find buyers.

And so it goes......

(Author unknown)

Reprinted from American Kennel Gazette, August 1989, written by Julie K. Elliott for the Lhasa Apso Breed Column.

Part of preparing your puppy for a well-trained well-socialized adult life is keeping it safe from hazards while it is still young and vulnerable. As soon as your puppy is old enough to start exploring its environment, it's old enough to get into trouble. Here are 10 tips to help you make sure your new puppy's inquisitive nature doesn't get it into any real trouble.

1) Small objects can choke curious animals. Be sure your floor is clean, and check it at least once a day to make sure it is free of items a vacuum cleaner might miss: pieces of children's toys, hairpins, rubber bands, paperclips, dental floss, etc.

2) Electric wires can mean instant death to a puppy that exercises his natural chewing instinct. Unplug anything that you're not planning to use--like old radios--and put them out of the pup's reach. Tape the wires of necessary appliances to the wall or buy a commercial pet repellent (Bitter Apple) and spray that around the dangerous area.

3) Garbage cans are another source of potential danger. Most dogs love to root through the contents. Make sure the lids are tight and that they don't come off if the container is tipped over. (Or put your garbage bins up on a counter.)

4) If you keep detergents or bleach under the sink, place a piece of wood between the handles to "lock" the cabinet. Don't place insect (or rodent) poisons where your dog can get at them. If a poison container isn't childproof, it's not dog proof.

5) Keep toilet lids closed. Some people think it's cute to see a dog drink out of the toilet. It is definitely not healthy, and it is not cute when the pup falls in, gets his head stuck, or consumes a poisonous toilet bowl cleaner.

6) Check your yard and gate to make sure your little puppy can't get out. Enterprising puppies can dig their way to freedom in a matter of minutes, so watch for signs of loose dirt around the fence.

7) If you want to protect your home as well as your pet, remember that housebreaking takes time. You can train a puppy within a few days or weeks if you are consistent, but excited or nervous pups are still apt to have "accidents" for months afterwards. If you leave your pup alone for any length of time, you are liable to come home to a stained carpet and heaven knows what else. Would you leave a toddler alone? Confine the puppy to a small area, or better yet, a crate.

8) Teething is something all puppies have to go through. If you don't want your puppy chewing on your furniture, buy something safe for the pup to chew. Nylabones are wonderful

and they won't splinter. Some puppies like to chew even when they're adults, and a lonely or bored dog will gnaw on just about anything, including his own feet or coat.

9) Provide plenty of play toys: rubber balls (large enough so they won't become lodged in the pup's throat, yet small enough for him to carry around in his mouth), old socks tied in knots, latex squeaky toys (watch the squeakers; they come loose easily.)

10) Before bringing your new dog home, select a veterinarian and set up an appointment. A new puppy will need a series of shots, and a grown dog also needs regular, thorough checkups. Both your breeder and veterinarian can assist your with feeding advice and can give you tips on general care.

Your new puppy will bring you a lot of happiness throughout the years. One of the best ways of giving him happiness in return is by making sure your home is safe before adding this new, very special family member.

This is the face of an angel.

"Heaven's Tenshi" (Japanese for Angel) stands barely 9 and 1/2 inches tall at the withers and weighs almost 9 pounds soaking wet! Tiny, she may be, but cram-packed with affection. Her name could be 'Lovebug', as all she wants to do is cuddle and kiss. My kind of girl!

Unfortunately, she is a little small for the show ring, but she's a treasured member of this family. Tenshi turned one on September 02, 2007.

Duke and Zizou, father and son, made us very proud at the big LMDF Show in Abbotsford, BC, this October/07, winning Best In Show for Brace competition all three days! Thanks to Almaza Kroeschel for letting me have Duke to co-own.

"Zizou" (Heaven's Zippy Zizou) enjoyed his trip to Manitoba this past summer, where he took part in the Canadian Bichon National Specialty, along with his dad, "Duke". Zizou then competed in BC in early October and attained his Canadian Championship title, winning Best Of Winners 3 out of 4 days! Yay Zizou!

This is Duke & I in Winnipeg for the bichon specialty this past summer. We didn't win (there were a lot of gorgeous dogs there) but we had fun. Duke is 'Am/Can Ch Almaza Just Right Duke' and Almaza Kroeschel, his breeder and co-owner has allowed me to have this lovely boy.

There is nothing cuter than little puppies at play...and bichon puppies have got to be the cutest of them all! These are Meisje and Squire's puppies, but that male out in the yard with them is Duke who quite likes them.

Hey, Wait For Christmas!

There's nothing cuter in the world than puppies - any kind of puppies - but Bichon puppies are DEFINITELY my favorite. Take a look at these little guys of mine and VOTE for us, okay?

The following article is one of several published on the Azmira.com website, an excellent source of information and holistic products for our animals. It is with permission that I offer this particular article by Dr. Newman as another view in the controversial discussion regarding garlic.

Garlic, the Facts

Lisa S. Newman, ND, Ph.D.

When it comes to your pet's health, do you want to follow facts or fears? Unfortunately, garlic has come under attack. This is primarily as a result of garlic's close cousin onion's reputation for triggering hemolytic or "Heinz factor" anemia (where circulating red blood cells burst) through its high concentration of thiosulphate. With onions, a single generous serving can cause this reaction.

Garlic simply DOES NOT CONTAIN THE SAME CONCENTRATION of this compound! In fact, it is barely traceable and readily excreted (not stored in the body).

Read the rest of the article and check out the Azmira website for yourself.

I find it incredibly difficult to say goodbye to any of my dogs but sometimes circumstances occur that make it a little easier. Not easy, but easier.

Quincy is one of those 'marshmallow' dogs ... all he has ever wanted to do is be with me and cuddle and be my best buddy. He would follow me everywhere I went. Even when outside with all the other dogs Quincy would prefer just to stay at my side. He has a very calm and placid temperament and nothing much gets him riled up. Just a lovebug.

As a matter of fact, it is that very quality that convinced me to stop showing him after he attained his Canadian Championship title. He would walk dutifully (but not joyfully) beside me in the ring, never putting a foot down wrong but never appearing animated or looking like he loved to be there either. He just didn't have that great 'showman' attitude that an exhibitor is looking for. And if he is not going to enjoy showing then I'm not going to make him do it.

He has fathered some lovely pups and so has done his job in contributing his genes to my breeding program. He loved that job! That's the one time when he showed real animation! But all good things come to an end and eventually it was time for darling Quincy to retire from even that role.

The dilemma then becomes: what to do with a neutered dog who is the family pet when I am a breeder/exhibitor with limited space within the family home? I need to be able to add dogs that will be up-and-comers in the ring in order to continue to participate in the very competitive world of Dog Shows.

Quincy has never warmed to other people and he is my velcro-dog...stuck to me like glue. He adores me and I adore him. I would never dream of letting him go into another home. I just knew he would be unhappy away from me and his comfortable place within our family.

Then I get a call from a couple who recently lost their 16 yr old bichon, Nicholas. They were crying on the phone as they told me the sad details of their beloved boy's demise, and although I did not have any puppies available they wanted to come and see my dogs and talk further about possibly going on a waiting list for a pup from a future litter.

When they got here and we got talking I could see how very heartbroken they were over the death of their canine family member. Ann cried at my kitchen table, and her husband Dudley was close to tears too. But what really amazed me was that Quincy came up to Ann, put his paws on her lap and wouldn't leave her side. Both she and Dudley petted him and sweet-talked him and his tail would wag happily. I've only seen him take to one other person like that before. I was stunned! It was like Quincy knew their pain and was volunteering to help their hearts heal. He knew they needed him.

He went home with them that day - for a trial - and he has lived happily with them ever since. For the first few weeks I would dream about him periodically, but not unhappy dreams. I missed him but I knew that he was important to this couple and they needed him and his special affection much more than I did. He comes to see me for grooming every 6 weeks and he is always happy to see me - but what really makes my heart glad is that I see him greet his new people enthusiastically when they come to pick him up to take him home again. Quincy has become the blessing in their lives that he always was in mine. His mission in life is love. That's it and that's all. And he takes his mission seriously. Just can't beat that!

- Puppies Go To School -

They learned that kids are fun. They learned that being handled and passed from one adoring child to another is a very pleasant experience. They learned that cars and bicycles that passed them on the street were not a threat to their safety. They smelled new smells, heard new noises and experienced a new situation.

And the children benefitted from the visit too. Some have never handled a puppy before and were nervous. Others just wanted to cuddle and cuddle and cuddle ... Smiles all around.

The school visit was over all too soon and we were on our way home again. We had invitations from the students and the teachers to visit again tomorrow, so perhaps we'll do that. At almost 8 weeks of age, visits like this are part of the "socialization" process that is so essential in helping to develop a happy, well-rounded puppy that is easily able to adapt to new environments.

These excursions are carefully planned so as to avoid stress or put the puppies at risk of exposure to viruses and other germs that their little bodies are not yet able to fight off. Having had their first vaccination gives them a certain amount of resistance to diseases common to dogs, but they are not yet fully protected and need us to be wise on their behalf.

Now a boisterous, noisy bunch, these babies have just started eating mush. They can almost pull themselves over the edge of the whelping pen so it is definitely time to move them into roomier (and safer) accommodations. Keeping them corralled long enough to get this picture was very tricky.
They walk and 'talk' and play with each other for much longer periods of time - but still spend the majority of their time snuggled up to mommy, nursing and sleeping. They are still babies, after all.

The Detroit Dumb Friends League website offers a wealth of wonderful information for pet owners. Well-written and well thought out articles cover many of the topics and concerns that most of us have had at one time or another.

Look for this article, "Introducing Your New Dog To Your Resident Dog", on their website if you are considering adding another canine member to your family. Don't assume that the two dogs will automatically get along - increase the chances of success by careful planning and implementing the suggested Introduction Techniques.

The following Techniques are explained in the article:

Choose a Neutral Location
Use Positive Reinforcement
Be Aware of Body Postures
Taking The Dog Home
Introducing Puppies To Adult Dogs
When To Get Help

Update on Meisje and Squire's puppies:

They are now 2 weeks old today and coming along nicely. They all weigh just around the 1 pound mark. Their eyes are starting to open. The pigment, is strong - noses of all but one puppy were black at 4 days of age, and their pads are getting more and more black already.

Chloe and I wash very carefully before we take them out of their whelping area so that we can do their Early Neurological Stimulation exercises ("Puppy School", Chloe calls it).

Neglect/Genetics? Perhaps both.

I don't mean to gross anybody out by posting this picture but I feel that it is important to reinforce the fact that good dental care is essential to the maintenance of quality health for our dogs. This 9 year old dog had a dental cleaning done about 2 years ago and at that time 8 teeth were extracted.

I can tell you from personally checking her teeth prior to taking this picture, that no dental scaling/cleaning is going to save the rest of her teeth now. Most are loose and several are almost certainly abscessed. The plaque that is plainly evident has already caused the gums to become very red and inflamed. It is not only unsightly and accompanied by very bad breath but it also has the potential of causing life-threatening health issues through chronic septic action on the heart and other organs. I'm sure that no-one knowingly puts their pet at such a preventable risk to their health, but that is exactly what avoiding our dog's dental care does. Be vigilant - check your pet's mouth and teeth often.

There are several options available to pet owners: brushing your pet's teeth with enzyme toothpaste specifically designed for dogs, offering dental chew items that will help in a mechanical way to loosen plaque, giving daily oral products that help prevent plaque build-up (ProDen PlaqueOff, is one. Petzlife is another), regular cleaning and scaling by a veterinarian under anesthetic, or scaling done without anesthetic.

*Cautionary note: Scaling not done by vet is not recommended for several valid reasons: This practice could introduce bacteria into the system unless done very carefully. Without x-ray it is not possible to determine other dental problems, such as cracked teeth or dental abscesses. Vets use sterilized equipment and give prophylactic antibiotics.

Whatever choice (or combination of choices) you make ....pleeeeeez.....for the sake of your dog's health, do not ignore your dog's dental care. They'd thank you if they could.

Early Neurological Stimulation

The first time this term (Early Neurological Stimulation) was introduced to me was during a Seminar presented by Dr. Carmen Battaglia during a K-9 College Cruise in 2006.

The handling of newborn pups as part of their early socialization process was not new but the precise outline of each activity including the number of seconds each procedure was done, and the exact days on which they were performed was new information.

The background data he presented included military studies on animals and their ability to learn and respond to stress. A certain amount of stress carefully applied during the 3rd to 16th day of life, when the neurological system is undergoing its most rapid developmental growth, was found to assist puppies in their ability to perform problem solving tests. They matured faster and were more able to cope, adjust and later adapt to situations as adults.

They also found that too much stress can cause negative results rather than the desired outcomes, so these stimulation exercises must be used with caution in order to have positive results.

On an anecdotal note - I have found that the puppies of recent litters where stimuli was applied according to ENS recommendations did indeed seem to be exceptionally outgoing, confident and fast learners - - perhaps more so than previous litters where I did not do the early socializing of my pups according to any particular stimulation regime. I will continue to follow this regime and monitor outcomes.

Labels: early neurological stimulation, early socialization, puppy development

- The Six Newest Angels in the Heavens Bichon family -

Born during the night, May 3rd, 2007, to mother 'Meisje' and daddy 'Squire'; 4 girls and 2 boys.

This is Landon. He is almost 13 years old and is my very special one and only grandson. He is a gentle soul - although my dogs think of him rather differently and let him know it each time he enters my house! He and some friends teased them years ago and they've never forgotten it or forgiven him.

Landon was 4 when his parents split up and he and his 2 sisters came to BC from AB to live. Although his mom married a very nice fellow several years ago and he now has a new sister who is almost 5, Landon has remained close to his biological dad who has also remarried. Landon and his sisters visit their dad and step-mom's family during the summer and for most school holidays. It's nice to see a mom and dad who although divorced still maintain a shared love and concern for the wellbeing of their kids.

Blended families, with step-parents and step-sisters or brothers, are not easily managed however. The stress on a new bride of finding herself with 3 children from a husband and his ex-wife must be enormous. And the stress on the children to fit in and find their new place in changed circumstances is not easy either. It doesn't take much of a complication to throw an already fragile situation off-balance.

Landon's thought processes have always seemed somewhat different in subtle ways, and his take on things was always very interesting. He is curious about things that other kids are not, and he is not satisfied with easy or superficial answers to questions. His social interactions and responses to stress are complicated by what was just diagnosed this year as a relatively common (increasingly so) developmental disorder. We are now hopeful that we and his teachers will be able to help him navigate his remaining school years with less trauma and more success than he has experienced thus far.

As Landon continues to develop insight into himself and find creative ways to express thoughts, opinions and feelings freely and safely, we too can get rich glimpses into the heart and soul of this young man. The more we can understand the mind of this boy the better our ability to be of assistance to him in forging his own path to the future. There is an intelligence within that is not immediately visible and it means we have to look longer and deeper to see it - but it is definitely there.

I am very proud of my grandson and how he works through the many struggles common to those coping with the varied faces of autism. He will not only find the way to survive in the reality of his world - he will thrive! He will succeed and we will be there every step of the way to cheer him on!

Labels: autism

It's NOT all about winning - really, it's not! Yes it's great to have the winning dog and the ego strokes that go with being the owner or breeder of a winning dog is pretty nice too, I have to admit.

But the real fun of dog shows is spending time with people who share your love of animals and particularly your love of your specific breed.

Friendships that center mainly around our mutual love of bichons are developed over years of 'setting up' at dog shows and grooming together.

It is true that poor sportsmanship and/or 'politics' enters the picture on occasion, and this can mar the fun of the show atmosphere. It takes a strong person with a tough skin to be able to survive the competitive (some would say "cut-throat") environment that exists within the Show Community. Rumors and back-stabbing are just as prevalent among dog fanciers as within any other organization. So you need a certain amount of courage to confront your critics and continue to persevere with exhibiting your dogs. The Professional Handler often does have an 'edge' - after all, this is his job and he/she should be good at it. The best dog does not always win - and if you are not able to cope with that reality then perhaps dog show competition is not for you.

Final word: Hold your head up high and smile with pride while you present your dog to the best of your ability. Be gracious when you win and when you lose. And enjoy the sport and the good times and good friends, and do your best to ignore the rest. Life's too short to let negativity steal your joy.

Labels: all-breed dog shows, competition, Conformation, dog fancy

Petsitting is not for cowards

I love my life. I am a stay-at-home mom of several canine 'kids'. Because I already have a multi-dog household a few extra dogs more or less doesn't make much of a difference in the whole scheme of things. It is a good thing however that I am not a meticulous neat freak because with the number of dogs that call this home their home....well, you can probably imagine!

Dogs going in and out, rain or shine, do make a mess and there is no getting around that. A few 'accidents' of both the liquid and solid type have also been known to have occurred in this house, and I am grateful that I have no carpets in the main living areas.

Easy-going, go-with-the-flow, and don't sweat the small stuff - that pretty much describes the attitude one must have to surround oneself with a house full of dogs. Particularly so if you also invite other dogs to share your space and interact with your own dogs. This life would drive some people absolutely crazy but I am fortunate in that I am already a little crazy! So say several of my friends and family anyway ;-) To be honest, there are also those who envy me this lifestyle and my furry companions.

Occasionally, alternative housing arrangements have to be made for animals due to vacations or other situations that require the pet's owners to be away from their home. This can be a real worry as almost everyone who is owned by a bichon will tell you that many of the commercial boarding kennels cannot provide what your precious fluff wants most - and that is personal, immediate and continual attention and affection. Those boarding dogs that usually sleep with their people will be likewise accommodated at my house. (God bless my long-suffering husband! He shares our bed with up to 6 dogs some nights, with nary a complaint.)

The knowledge that I am providing a safe and loving environment for someone's canine family member is very satisfying. And to know that I am trusted to handle not only every day care, but also any emergency that may arise, is very humbling.

I can't predict how long I will continue to love what I am doing, but for now I am happy. My house will continue to take a back seat to my dogs. The pretty possessions that many women put importance in just don't do it for me. I have my own pretty 'things' - my dogs - and I am blessed to be able to share and contribute to the lives of others' dogs and be their substitute mom on a short term basis when needed.

Labels: petsitting/vacation/dogsitting/daycare/boarding/kennel

In Memory of my darling old gentleman, American Champion Beau Cheval Yuppie Mums, ("Yuppie") Nov.07/89 - Feb 02/06) I miss him every day.

To Mum From Your Sunshine
(author unknown)

Before I grow too frail and weak,
And all that's left is peace in sleep,
I know you'll do what must be done
To end this fight that can't be won.

I don't fear death as humans do,
So let me try to comfort you.
Come, let us take a quiet stroll
And share some quietness soul to soul.

No need for words 'twixt you and I,
No need to say a last good-bye.
We've grown so close in mind and heart,
It seems so cruel that we must part.

Be sure I sense the pain you'll feel
Without me walking at your heel.
The days will feel full of despair -
Your "Sunshine" simply won't be there.

In time the pain will slowly wane,
You'll think of me and smile again;
You'll speak with love and pride of me,
Your extra special puppy.

Now take me where my needs they'll tend,
And stay there with me till the end;
Hold me close with soft goodbyes
'Till life's bright light has left my eyes.

The final sound I need to hear
Is your soft voice upon my ear.
Your loving face will fade and dim
As the rush of heaven closes in.

What are the things that you remember from your childhood that make you smile? And what kinds of memories are we making for those special young people in our lives? How important is the time we spend with those we love? Maybe it's because I am getting older but time spent with family seems more precious than ever these days.

Today I took a day off from working with the dogs - no grooming or other dog business. Usually granddaughter Chloe helps me with bathing and blow-drying bichons as well as doing her own thing (playing and watching tv and such). Today was a day totally dedicated to doing whatever she wanted to do. Luckily the things Chloe chose to do were things I also enjoyed.

We cooked - made mayonnaise, baked apples, and made a spicy beef soup. We ate homemade cookies made on a previous 'bake day' and drank tea. We painted pictures and made a pretty big mess with tempura paints as we created our colorful masterpiece. We read books and sang songs. Well, actually, I did the reading as Chloe keeps telling me very seriously that she "can't read yet - I'm just a 4 year old kid, Grandma!".

And we played cards. Ever played MEMORY? That's a game where all the cards are lined up and turned over and each person turns up 2 cards at a time, looking for pairs. It takes a good memory to play this game well. Oh my goodness....I got soooo trounced, game after game after game! So much for the poor little "I'm just a 4 year old kid" bit! I didn't stand a chance!

It was a great day. One I know that I will remember fondly (If my memory-ability holds up, that is).

"Two is better than one" is not always true. And having two involved doesn't necessarily help speed things up either. As a matter of fact it may take considerably longer. But when the two is made up of myself and my youngest granddaughter, Chloe, then it's time well spent.

With Chloe's mom being a school teacher I get to have her at my house Monday to Friday every week, and since my very favorite things are my bichons frises and my family (especially grandchildren) this is a good arrangement. It does, however, stretch the time needed to groom dogs, but then I figure it's all an investment in training her for a future as my assistant!

This (above) is "Duke" - Am/Can Ch Almaza Just Right Duke. Although he was still a puppy in this picture you could already see his potential. A coat that was very dense and time consuming to groom, but a pleasure at the same time. This is the beginning of a "show" grooming.


Let me tell you right off the bat that I am not a professional groomer. I am just a bichon owner of both pet and show bichons, and someone who knows what I like and don't like in bichon grooming styles. I have groomed my own bichons for a good many years so I do have a certain amount of experience with the intricacies of grooming this breed - but I am certainly no expert.

Unfortunately, taking your dog to the Pet Salon for the 'Professional (and often expensive) Grooming Experience' will not always guarantee a satisfactory result. If you have a particular preference in styling you might want to take the groomer a picture of a bichon done the way you like. Remember that the bichon trim is a fairly complicated piece of scissored sculpture, and not as easy to achieve as one might think.

When you pick up your dog and you are critiquing the finished product, take the time to point out what you like and what you don't like about the job that has been done. Be tactful, but be clear. This is more fair and much kinder than just leaving the shop dissatisfied, never to return again.

The bichon pictured at the right came to me for grooming 6 weeks after being groomed elsewhere. The dog had been shaved down, including the legs, and the head had been cut like a poodle! For most Bichon Frise owners, having their dog look like a poodle is an insult. If you ask me, by the look of the dog's droopy tail he too is insulted and even embarrassed.
I was able to partially transform the poodle-look into a sort-of bichon-look. This is a "pet" cut, which is shorter than what would be acceptable to many people, including me, but for ease-of-care is often requested.

For anyone wanting to learn to do the grooming on their own dogs, be prepared to make many mistakes along the way. There are important things to know, however, that will get you started right and I would suggest that you go to BBird's Grooming Blog site for tips. She will also give you information on equipment that you need.

'Posturing' - Challenging for Pack Status

Anytime I have a dog that returns from being away at dog shows, or have a visiting dog, the pack status has to be reassessed, it seems. Noisy and nervous-making for some people, but perfectly normal canine activity.

The introduction of another adult dog into the existing group should be done carefully and with supervision. Usually all goes relatively smoothly - just the regular butt-sniffing and challenging behavior that you would expect. With very assertive dogs (and I have a few), there can be a fair bit of posturing accompanied by some growls. If the new dog is quite submissive I need to be careful of the number of dogs I expose it to initially. The others can decide to gang up on it and if not controlled the situation can turn nasty.

If someone should step in protectively too quickly it may communicate the wrong message to the dogs. They may perceive that perhaps you need protecting or that the other dog is weak. Almost always the pack does its own handling of "who's the boss" very well themselves and the less interference from us the better.

The key to good supervision is being able to read the dogs' verbal and non-verbal signals correctly. Does one of the dogs turn his head so that there is not eye-to-eye confrontation happening? That's good. Wagging tail? Good. Raised hackles? Not good. Lifting upper lip and Baring teeth? Not so good.

Challenging another dog is one thing; full out aggression is quite another. A little growling and even a little tussling is part of the natural process of figuring out what the pecking order of the pack will be, but don't allow it to disintegrate into the kind of fighting where one or more of the animals could get injured.

Usually within 10 minutes the whole group is running and socializing and getting along famously. Each comfortable with their understanding of their place in the pack.

I don't know which is sweeter - puppies or granddaughters. This particular little girl is my precious 4 year old granddaughter, Chloe.

Duke and Meisje are pleased to announce the arrival of 4 healthy puppies, born on September/06. 3 have been 'adopted' by wonderful families; 1 little girl is staying here at Heaven's Bichons. Here is a short video of the last 2 remaining pups just prior to them being separated.

A husband living in a multi-dog household ought to know that rat poison is NOT a safe way to eradicate vermin...but mine thought he had hidden it well under the shed.

Thankfully, I go out with my dogs when they are in the yard and noticed within 5 minutes that 6 of them were unusually engrossed in something. It was a package of Warfarin-based rat poison. Very quickly I syringed hydrogen peroxide into each of them, and they all vomited. I repeated the peroxide and everybody vomited again (I thought). I had not actually witnessed one of the dogs vomiting, but presumed she had. Never presume.

Off to the vet for Vitamin K1 injections and bloodwork which revealed that the one girl was affected. She is now on Vitamin K by mouth for the next 5 weeks. A very scary episode and one that I hope none of you will ever experience. Would you know what to do if it happened to your dog?

From time to time people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a dog", or "that's a lot of money for just a dog". They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for "just a dog".

Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog". Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog", but I did not once feel slighted. Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog", and in those days of darkness the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you, too, think it's "just a dog", then you will probably understand phrases like "just a friend", "just a sunrise", or "just a promise". "Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. "Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person. Because of "just a dog' I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future.

So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment. "Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog", but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being "just a man". So the next time you hear the phrase "just a dog" just smile, because they "just don't understand".

Author unknown

Lately I've had several prospective buyers question whether there really is any advantage in buying a puppy from a "reputable breeder" rather than the sale-priced pup that is advertised in the newspaper or at the pet store. Seldom do most people really think about how much time, effort, and yes, expense, goes into that precious pup, and how important it is to choose your puppy carefully.

What might appear to be a great sale price at first may turn out to be a very costly pet in the long run. All puppies are cute when they are little, so don't let yourself be emotionally caught up by that sweet little fluffy white puppy with the soulful eyes that is being offered for sale out of the back of a truck in the parking lot of the mall. You may live to regret an impulsive decision.

In order to wisely choose a puppy you need to take some time and investigate both the breeder and her dogs. Check his/her reputation just as she should check yours. Bichons make wonderful pets but they are not the right breed for every family. Do your research BEFORE you buy to make sure you are a match for each other, and that you are prepared for your new pet.

Here are some of the factors that go into every litter that a reputable breeder produces. It is by no means an exhaustive list, but it should give you a fairly comprehensive understanding of what goes into that wonderful puppy you are looking to adopt.

Prior to using adult dogs in our breeding program, breeders must be sure that they have had their eyes, hips, knees and hearts checked and found free of genetic/hereditary problems. Both the male and the female dog must be of good temperament and healthy overall. Attention needs to be paid to possible medical concerns, like allergies, kidney problems and other important factors within their ancestral lines before the decision to breed is made.

Even with all the precautions that one can take beforehand we occasionally have disastrous results - and any breeder that denies having ever produced a puppy with a problem is not being truthful with you, or they haven't had many litters yet. These are living beings, and as such are prone to all the aberrations and unfortunate happenings that any living being may encounter.

The care of the pregnant female and then her pups is only a very small part of the whole process. If one is so lucky as to have an uncomplicated pregnancy and birthing process, and if all the puppies are normal and healthy, you are off to a good start. You will have to monitor their weights daily and check on the new mom's health carefully too for several weeks. Fortunately the new mommy usually does most of the care of her newborns for the first 3 weeks, and it is after this period that the bulk of your work as the breeder begins.

There is the daily care of the whelping area; washing floors, crates, blankets; disinfecting everything regularly. Providing warmth, food, and protection from the other animals or human visitors, and innumerable other stresses. Coupled with this is the introduction of timely and structured stimuli and socialization experiences, while still protecting vulnerable immune systems and tender temperaments.

Other tasks include removal of dew claws, vaccinations, deworming, and microchipping or tattooing each puppy and seeing to the adult dogs' health/immunizations as well. The clipping of toenails, removal of hair from the ear canal, brushing and regular bathing of squirming puppies who are unused to these regimes - now there's a challenge.

Of course all the while there is the ongoing grooming and care of all the adult dogs. They too have to have regular exercise and companionship and all their needs met.

Both "show" and "pet" puppies must have contracts drawn up that protect them from unethical or unprepared buyers, to give them their best chance at a happy, forever, family home placement. Litters must be registered with the national kennel club, (in my case, the Canadian Kennel Club) and then the individual registrations are applied for. All at the breeder's cost. New owners must be given their new pup's registration when terms of the contract applying to spay/neuter agreements are complied with.

Records of all these transactions must be meticulously kept. Puppy packets, which include copies of registrations, pedigrees, genetic screening results; articles regarding training and care of puppies; pictures and medical records, including vaccinations given--these must be prepared to accompany the pup to his or her new home.

And all the while the phone rings--seemingly constantly--with inquiries about obtaining a puppy, or with questions about the care of a bichon, or a problem with their own dog, or just regarding the breed in general. Answering e-mail is much the same. Time consuming but necessary.

Records of possible future adoptive families are kept, and each must at some point be interviewed at length to be seriously considered as prospective adoptive families. Some of the folks who assure you of the seriousness of their desire to have one of your puppies will vanish into thin air when the puppy actually becomes available. For those who do get a puppy further individual instruction regarding the care of their particular puppy will be done in person. Afterward, ongoing contact with families who
are chosen as adoptive parents is necessary in order to offer assistance and information when needed.

The purchase agreement between breeder and buyer states that if for some reason the purchaser cannot keep the pet the dog will be returned to the breeder. This is no idle commitment. It means that re-homing puppies who can no longer stay with original buyers must also occasionally be done. Assessment of problems and beginning the necessary behavioral modification/re-training takes time. The search for a new family where the pup's chance of succeeding in finding a "permanent" home will take considerable effort and a lot of instinct. We don't want to choose unwisely and make an error that may cost this dog his life.

Equally important is spaying/neutering those adult dogs whose contribution to the breed is considered complete, and sometimes heartwrenchingly letting them go to someone else's great home for their "retirement" years; finding and negotiating the import of new bloodlines that will mesh with your own bloodlines to improve your breeding; planning for litters of the future; studying genetics and pedigrees. These are also time-consuming but essential.

And I haven't even mentioned the factors that go into exhibiting dogs in the competitive show circuits. Filling out entry forms before deadlines, grooming and conditioning or getting dogs to handlers, traveling to shows, time spent away from home, paying the !*@#*~ bills! Every title earned has cost so much more than just the dollars spent! And we feel lucky when they win a ribbon!

Why do you bother with showing your dogs and getting a championship title on them, you ask? Because we want our dogs "proven" in the ring, judged to be an excellent representative of the breed by at least 3 different judges. This also helps us to be able to approach other breeders of good bichons for possible stud service. Okay, there's a little personal ego involved too.

Keeping a record of bills, bank statements, travel costs, advertising costs, veterinarian, food and other supply costs is an intimidating job, especially for those of us who are slightly 'mathematically challenged.'

Yes, I am proud of my dogs, and yes, I love it when they "show" well. It is part of the reward for breeding. There is nothing in the world like puppy breath and nothing more entertaining than to watch the interaction of little pups. And to know that I am breeding exceptional bichons and finding these wonderful dogs the very best families to live with gives me great pleasure. Let me tell you - IT SURE AIN'T THE MONEY!

So my sinks will probably continue to get plugged with dog hair, carpets peed upon, shoes chewed beyond recognition. I have no garden and no time to work in one anyway. I'm behind in housework and my back hurts. I need more room in my bed. I'm not getting enough sleep. Apart from these dogs (and my precious grandchildren) I have "little" to "no" life.

Am I complaining? No, not really! I wouldn't change my life for yours for a million dollars. Well... maybe a million :-)