Bella's Bark

Spring at the Park

2009-05-17T16:33:00.001-05:00

Today we went to Breckinridge Park. There has been a lot of rain so everything was really green and there were tons of wild flowers. Because of all the rain, the streams were full and I got to do some swimming. Great Day!!!

Walking down the path...

Playing in the stream

Me and Daddy by the water

Crossing the stream

Looking out over the field

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T20:52:00.000-05:00

I love my Grandma and today we went over to celebrate Mother's Day at her house. As usual, she had a special surprise for me... turkey and whipped cream!!!!

The Great Dog Bailout 2009

2009-02-22T20:52:00.003-06:00

First, let me say, "the recession sucks!" It isn’t just affecting people – the animals are feeling it too.
As humans lower their spending, they also cut back on charitable contributions. Without the help of private
donations, shelters and rescue organizations are faced with the possibility of having to stop taking in needy
animals because they simply can’t afford one more little mouth to feed.

As a former shelter dog, I don’t like the thought of that! That’s why my friends and I have developed
the Shelter Dog Bailout Plan. Our goal is to sell 1 million tote bags! It sounds like a lot, but that’s only
20,000 per state (there are over 1 million people in my home town of Dallas alone).

We have 3 designs to choose from and 20% of the profits will go directly to animal welfare organizations --
just think how many good things could be done with that money!

Take a minute, check out the website, and help lend a paw to those in need.

Thanks, Bella

A Day with Friends!!!

2009-02-01T23:34:00.001-06:00

Today we went to see my friends Lisa, John, Sam, and Lady. I haven't seen Lisa in a long time and I was so excited when mom told me that we were going to her house. I've known Sam since he was a puppy and we used to go to daycare together. Lady is his new little sister and it was the first time I'd met her. I had such a great time!!! We played all afternoon!!! Lady loves to be chased so Sam and I got to run after her all day. That night we ate fried chicken and Frosty Paws... I can't imagine a more perfect day. I can't wait until we get to see each other again!

Lady and Sam

Lady

Buster

Eating fried chicken with Daddy!!!

Daddy, Lisa, Sam, Lady, and me by the lake near Lisa's house

Park Day

2009-01-18T18:20:00.000-06:00

It was really nice this morning, so mom and I went to Breckinridge park. It was sunny, warm and we even met four labs who played with me in the stream! I love park days!!!

DFW Wildlife Coalition Hotline provides answers to urban wildlife questions and concerns

2009-01-18T12:45:00.000-06:00

Even when living in a city, you’re sure to run into non-domestic animals. The DFW Wildlife Coalition offers a hotline and website that can answer questions and provide information on everything from squirrels, rabbits, and skunks to bats, turtles, and coyotes.
Their goal is to help reduce the number of orphaned and euthanized “wild” animals in the Metroplex by providing public assistance and education programs.

Their website offers answers/suggestions to popular topics (ducks in your swimming pool, coyotes in your neighborhood, what to do if you find a baby mammal/bird, etc), and also provides helpful educational videos and resources on dealing with wildlife nuisance problems.

To contact DFW Wildlife Coalition:
Phone: 972.234.WILD (9453)
Email: info@dfwwildlife.org
Website: www.dfwwildlife.org

Hotel for Dogs

2009-01-12T15:43:00.002-06:00

THE DALLAS COWBOYS’ PATRICK CRAYTON
HOSTS READING EVENT FOR CHILDREN

WHO: Patrick Crayton, wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys, to visit the East Lake Pet Orphanage

WHAT: Patrick Crayton Appearance/Excerpt Reading of HOTEL FOR DOGS

Families and kids are invited to stop by the East Lake Pet Orphanage to listen to Patrick Crayton read an excerpt from Simon & Schuster’s HOTEL FOR DOGS book on Tuesday, January 13th from 4:30pm to 5:30pm. Dogs from the East Lake Pet Orphanage (www.welovepets.net), the Education and Animal Rescue Society (www.earstexas.org) and the Frisco Humane Society (www.friscohumanesociety.com) will be available for adoption.

The book is based on the family comedy-adventure HOTEL FOR DOGS which opens in theaters across the country on January 16, 2009 and stars Emma Roberts, Jake T. Austin, Lisa Kudrow, Kevin Dillon and Don Cheadle.

WHEN: Tuesday, January 13
4:30pm to 5:30pm

WHERE: East Lake Pet Orphanage
10101 East Northwest Highway Dallas, TX 75238

Puppies!

2009-01-09T19:31:00.000-06:00

Today something great happened! We had five puppies in the studio!!! We needed to shoot them for new card, so they were there for several hours. I love puppies so they stayed downstairs with me so I could watch over them! I wish they could have stayed longer -- or better yet, have come home with me. They don't have homes yet, they're living in a foster home. I really hope they find nice parents!

Christmas Turkey

2008-12-25T14:18:00.000-06:00

Today we went to Grandma and Grandpa's for Christmas dinner. Grandpa let me lick the turkey platter!

Park Day

2008-12-13T14:22:00.000-06:00

Today we got to go to White Rock Lake. Mom doesn't like it much... she say's there are too many people and the bike riders are sometimes pretty pushy, but I like it anyway.

Breckenridge Park Day

2008-11-30T18:26:00.000-06:00

I love it when we go to Breckenridge Park. There are so many places to sniff and streams to run through! Everything is pretty brown right now, but I don't mind!

Joke of the Day

2008-11-10T10:23:00.001-06:00

El Vaquero (the Mexican cowboy) and his Chihuahua , Chilito, are camping in the desert. El Vaquero sets up their tent and both are soon asleep.

Some hours later, El Vaquero wakes his faithful friend, "Chilito, look up at the sky and tell me what you see."

Chilito replies, "I see millions of stars, senor."

"What does that tell you?" asks El Vaquero.

Chilito ponders for a minute. "Astronomically speaking, it tells me there are millions of galaxies and potentially billions of planets. Astrologically, it tells me that Saturn is in Leo. Chronologically, it appears to be approximately quarter past three. Theologically, its evident the Lord is all-powerful, and we are small and insignificant. Meteorologically, it seems we will have a beautiful day tomorrow. What does it tell you, senor?"

El Vaquero is silent for a moment, and then says, "Chilito, you pendejo, it tells me that someone has stolen our tent."

2008-11-05T22:10:00.002-06:00

Congratulations Mr. Obama!

My Friend Sam has a new little sister!

2008-11-04T22:12:00.002-06:00

My friend Sam has a new little sister, Lady! His mom and dad got her from the McKinney SPCA and she's about 9 months old! I'm really excited for him. He loves to play and he's been really wanting someone to chase and run around with. Hopefully I'll get to meet her soon.

Happy Halloween

2008-11-01T21:47:00.000-05:00

We love Halloween at our house! It's my mom's favorite day of the year. Fortunately, we live in a neighborhood where we have lots of trick-or-treaters. Here are some of the photos from last night.

My Favorite Kitten - napping in the shade

2008-10-21T22:08:00.001-05:00

A day at the lake

2008-10-16T13:40:00.001-05:00

Today is Sunday and we got to go to White Rock Lake. We usually do something fun on Sunday and I love it when we go for long walks! Here are some pictures from this afternoon.

Some pictures of Wyoming and Montana

2008-10-06T09:45:00.001-05:00

Here are some of the pictures from my mom and dad's trip

Vacation at Petropolitan

2008-10-01T22:29:00.001-05:00

My mom and dad are going to Wyoming and Montana for a few days so I get to go spend some time at Petropolitan! I'm really excited! I haven't seen my friends in awhile and I can't wait to go. I always miss my family, but I'm never lonely while they're gone. I think I heard mom say that I even get a bath while I'm there!!!

Hawaiian Falls

2008-09-20T22:01:00.016-05:00

Today was amazing!

Here are some pictures from our day at Hawaiian Falls!

My Daddy was on TV tonight!

2008-08-25T21:13:00.002-05:00

Today Channel 5 news came to my daddy's office to interview him. I was very excited when mom told me! Daddy got selected to be an Accredited Space Agent for Virgin Galactic and just got back from training in Las Vegas. He got to go to the Mojave Desert and see where the space ships will be housed. Virgin Galactic only chose 130 agents world wide so it's a pretty big deal. I think there are only 4 agents in all of Texas and as far as I know my Daddy is the only person in Dallas authorized to sell tickets. You can read about about it at www.virgingalactic.com

Only 30 days until Dog Day Afternoon at Hawaiian Falls

2008-08-22T21:31:00.003-05:00

I'm so excited!!! On Sept. 20th mom said they'd take me to Dog Day Afternoon at Hawaiian Falls!!! I almost passed out when she told me. I haven't been able to sleep for days!!! I think this might be the best day of my life!!!

If you want to go, or if you want to find out more information you can go to the Operation Kindness website by clicking this link: http://www.operationkindness.org/dda/about.php

Sunday in the park

2008-08-10T20:16:00.006-05:00

Grandma and grandpa are refinishing their pool so today we went to the park instead of swimming at their house. Breckinridge Park is really fun, but it gets very hot in the summer. We went in the morning so it would be cooler and I got in the stream when I started to feel hot. It's not as good as grandma's, but we still have fun when we go.

Me and daddy by the stream under the bridge

Me cooling off in the stream

I wanted to chase all the ducks, but mom wouldn't let me

Me looking over the big field

Parking Lot Rescue

2008-07-31T15:57:00.000-05:00

Today my friend Lori rescued a chicken. When she got to work there was a chicken (rooster, actually) in the parking lot by our building. It looked really beat up and we think that someone had probably used it as a fighting rooster -- then just threw it in our dumpster last night when they didn't want it anymore (sometimes humans really suck)!

A nice man came by and together they were trying really hard to get the rooster into a big box so it wouldn't run out into the street and get hit by a car. The rooster, however, didn't want anything to do with either of them or the box. He decided that he just wanted to hide under a big truck. The man had to go to work so my mom went out to help Lori. They got him out from under the truck, but then he ran behind the dumpster.

Lori called Animal Control and they said they'd be over ASAP to help. Fortunately, the rooster felt really safe behind the dumpster and stayed there until Animal Control got there. We know what usually happens when animals get picked by Animal Control -- but we didn't know what else to do. We were getting really sad, but thought a "quick" death would be better than letting him get run over or hurt by a car in the parking lot.

When Animal Control got here they were able to catch the rooster and they said he really didn't look that bad (I was sad to think they'd seen worse). They also said that they work with a bird sanctuary and that they'd call them and they'd come get the rooster. That made us all very happy!!! My friend Lori actually saved a life today!!! Yeah Lori!!!

Unfortunately, he also had a very large raccoon and a big black dog in his truck. We all are just crossing our paws that the raccoon gets to go back to the country and that someone will come and take home the big black dog!!!

Lori feeding the rooster

My friend Sam

2008-07-30T22:23:00.009-05:00

I was just found these old pictures of my friend Sam.

He's all grown up now, but look at how little he used to be.

This is Sam now...

My daddy -- the Space Cowboy!

2008-07-25T22:05:00.001-05:00

I'm really excited!!! My daddy got chosen to be the only travel agent in Dallas who is certified to book travel on Richard Branson's new Virgin Galactic spaceline. Virgin Galactic has developed a spaceship that makes sub-orbital space tourism possible. The first trips should actually start in about a year. I think it's all very exciting. I'm hoping that maybe I'll get to be the first catahoula in space if I play my cards right!!! If you have an extra $200,000 and want to go on a trip of a lifetime be sure to email my daddy at andrew@strongtravel.com!!! He can get you all set up!!!

Crisis at Petropolitan

2008-07-24T19:58:00.002-05:00

Today something terrible happened at Petropolitan! When I got there for daycare we found out that sometime during the night the entire ceiling over the big dog "zen pen" play area had fallen in. It crushed the fence and there was debris everywhere. Thankfully no one was there when it happened and none of my friends got hurt. I was kinda freaked out, but I know everything will be back to normal in no time. I'm really sad for Chris -- he's so nice and bad stuff like that shouldn't happen to them!

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-04T21:47:00.004-05:00

Today we went to Grandma and Grandpa's for the 4th of July. We were also celebrating aunt Melony's birthday (it was actually on June 30th but we waited until today so we'd have lots of time celebrate). Grandma made buffalo burgers and buffalo hotdogs and we had queso, chips, and cake and ice cream. Grandma also let me eat whipped cream!!! Here are some pictures...

Me by the pool

Me and Grandma

Me and Daddy playing tug-of-war with my gator

Me all wet from swimming

Yum!!! I love whipped cream!!!

2008-06-30T17:08:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday Aunt Melony!!!

I love you!!!

The saddest day of my life!

2008-06-27T18:00:00.000-05:00

Today is the saddest day of my life. My friend Lisa isn't coming back to work anymore. Every morning when she'd come in I'd run over to meet her and she'd ask me all about what was going on and we'd talk and talk. Then whenever I needed a snack or a hug I knew I could put my chin on her leg and she'd know just what to give me. She was one of my best friends and I don't know what I'll do without her! Lisa, I miss you already!!!

Yeah! The ordinances PASSED!!!

2008-06-25T14:20:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it -- the proposed changes to the animal ordinances actually passed -- 10-3. I'm a little shocked but really happy! My friend Chris got up in front of the City Council and spoke at the meeting... I guess he and the other supporters were pretty persuasive. I'm going to have to get the whole scoop from mom tonight when she gets home!!! Yeah! Way-to-go Dallas City Council!!!

John's foot

2008-06-20T21:27:00.000-05:00

My friend Lisa's husband fell off the roof and broke his foot a couple of weeks ago and just had surgery today. He shattered his heel and the doctors had to put in a lot of pins! Here's the x-ray of his foot.

Happy Birthday Chris!

2008-06-20T19:18:00.000-05:00

Today is my friend Chris' birthday (he runs Petropolitan -- where I go to daycare). I made him some brownies and mom delivered them this morning! I hope he likes them... I'm not a very good cook.

City Council Hearing

2008-06-18T18:07:00.000-05:00

Today my mom went to the City Council hearing about the new animal ordinances. She said it was a pretty interesting afternoon. The council chambers were packed and it was about a 50/50 split between supporters and opponents. The debate was pretty heated and the opposition had seven speakers and our side only had two. I think that's because all the people on our side have real jobs and the people against the proposition have nothing to do but whore out their pets -- so they have a lot of free time (I guess that's not a nice thing to say, but they make me really mad)! She had to leave early to get back to work and she's not sure how the actual vote will go. We'll just keep our paws crossed...

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T20:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Father's Day!!!

Today we got to go to Grandma and Grandpa's for the afternoon. The food was wonderful and the swimming was the best yet!

Petition Update

2008-05-29T21:55:00.001-05:00

We crossed the 500 mark! We're now up to 519!!! Thanks everybody, this is really going to help make a difference!!!
www.spayandneuterdallas.com

Petropolitan Sleep Over

2008-05-29T21:46:00.002-05:00

My mom and dad are going to spend the night "away" on Saturday and I just found out that instead of staying home with Rumba I get to go to Petropolitan. I thought I was going to be bored at home with nothing to do (the neighbors were really nice and volunteered to come let me out for breaks, to feed me, etc.) but mom decided I would have more fun and be less worried if I went to spend the night with my friends. I'm super excited!!! I spent the night there when daddy had surgery and it was great. They take really good care of me (even when I'm crabby) and there's a lot stuff to keep me occupied. In case you're worried about Rumba... don't be. She actually doesn't mind spending some time alone. She likes having the house all to herself and as long as there's food in her bowl and Court TV on the television she's perfectly content (she just doesn't know what she's missing...)

Sam's new hair

2008-05-29T19:44:00.002-05:00

Today my friend Sam got his hair cut. He has really thick fur so in the summer his mom gets it cut so he won't be as hot. I think it looks really cute!

Petition Update

2008-05-28T21:10:00.003-05:00

Yeah -- we're up to 473 signatures!!!
http://www.spayandneuterdallas.com/

Memorial Day Swim Time

2008-05-24T19:51:00.002-05:00

Today we went over to Grandma's and Grandpa's to have a Memorial Day cookout. The weather was great and the pool was perfect. Not only did I get to swim, I also got to chase a bunch of squirrels and had a very nice time just relaxing in the grass. We had ribs and bar-b-que so needless to say -- the eatin' was good! I sure love my grandparents!

This is me and daddy, waiting in the car for mom so we can hurry up and go!

This is me on my pool float

Me posing by the pool

I can't wait till tomorrow!

2008-05-21T21:09:00.002-05:00

I can't wait for tomorrow!!! Mom has been really busy at work so I haven't gotten to go with her since last Wednesday. I hate staying home all day. Rumba is here, so at least I'm not alone, but she isn't any fun. All she wants to do is sit around in the sun and ignore me. Tomorrow is Thursday, though, and I get to go to Petropolitan for daycare. I LOVE DAYCARE!!! I get to see Sam and all the rest of my friends and it makes the day go by really fast. I can't, I can't wait, I can't wait!!!

Petition Update

2008-05-21T21:08:00.000-05:00

Yeah, we've gotten over 300 signatures!!!

Craziness at Petropolitan

2008-05-20T21:52:00.003-05:00

Mom just told me some weird news about my daycare. Friday night the ceiling in the grooming area fell in. That must have been scary for any of my friends that were spending the night. Nobody was in the grooming area so everyone was totally safe, but I bet it made a lot of noise. I guess their building is a little historic and the ceiling back there just got old and crumbled away. The guys down there are pretty resourceful so I'm sure everything is pretty much back to normal. Hopefully their landlord will get it all fixed in a hurry -- I know a couple of dogs who really need a bath and trim!

My daddy is going to be in a magazine!

2008-05-20T21:49:00.003-05:00

I'm really excited! My daddy is going to be in a magazine! Modern Luxury is doing a special "Influential Men of Dallas" issue and there is a page all about him. We saw the final proof and it looks GREAT! As soon as is comes out I'll post it so everyone can see it!

Petition Update

2008-05-19T20:49:00.001-05:00

We're up to 273! Keep em' coming!

Stop the silly comments!

2008-05-15T21:20:00.000-05:00

I'm really getting tired of hearing people tell me that they're not for the new Dallas animal ordinances because they will be "unenforceable". That's just not true! Any law, good or bad, is enforceable. Whether of not the authorities choose to enforce it is another matter.
Right now, though, that shouldn't even be a part of the equation. First, get the ordinances passed - then, work on making sure they are enforced. I think its crazy to just sit back and do nothing just because of something that may, or may not, happen down the road.
That's the problem with people. They want things to get better, but they're not willing to go out and do anything to make themselves heard. Dogs wouldn't do that! We'd take charge of matters and make sure things worked out!
Come on humans - grow a pair and help make things better for us dogs!

Petition Update

2008-05-13T20:19:00.000-05:00

Wow, it's only been a couple of days and we already have 153 signatures. OK, all of you who haven't signed -- go do it NOW!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-10T20:44:00.002-05:00

Today we went over to grandma and grandpa's for Mother's Day. Grandpa cooked steaks on the grill plus we had baked potatoes, cake and ice cream! The food was great, but the best thing... IT WAS THE FIRST SWIM DAY OF THE YEAR!!!! I've been waiting for this day all winter and I can't believe it's finally here! Man, I love to swim!!! Yeah, swim days!!!

Dallas Animal Ordinances

2008-05-10T11:00:00.000-05:00

Today my mom launched her new website, http://www.spayandneuterdallas.com/. In June, the Dallas City Council will vote on a new set of animal ordinances.

One of the proposals causing the most controversy centers around mandatory spay/neuter legislation (you can read the entire ordinance on the Ordinance Summary page of the website). Even though this plan contains numerous exemptions, it has become the center of a very vigorous debate. Simply stated, the proposal will require owners to spay or neuter their pets (dogs, cats) unless they pay a yearly breeder fee.

Opponents argue that this interferes with their "rights" as pet owners. What they leave out of the discussion is that last year Dallas Animal Services euthanized almost 30,000 animals. The number rises to nearly 200,000 when you look at totals for shelters city wide. 25% of the animals euthanized each year are purebred.

Here's the bottom line: this ordinance is not about "rights", it's about life and death. Every three minutes a dog or cat is killed in Dallas. It is cruel to bring one more litter, even a purebred litter, into the world as long as we are killing so many healthy animals on a daily basis.

If you want to show your support for responsible pet ownership, please go to the website, http://www.spayandneuterdallas.com/ and sign her petition.

The animals of Dallas thank you!

The Legends and Puppies Tour of 2008

2008-04-25T15:11:00.000-05:00

Texas Legends Kinky Friedman and Steven Fromholz Touring For Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch.

The super-successful Legends And Puppies Tour of 2008, with former gubernatorial candidate Kinky Friedman and Texas Poet Laureate Steven Fromholz, is back on the road once again, and it's coming to a city or town nearby! As always, it's for the benefit of the Kinkster’s favorite cause, the Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch, a 501(c)3 organization that rescues abandoned and/or abused dogs, nurtures them and places them with loving families.

Nearly every stop on the tour so far has been sold out, with several second shows added in the hottest markets. Every show includes a live auction with a guitar signed by longtime Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch supporter and Big Dog, Willie Nelson, as well as other terrific items from Kinky's private memorabilia collection.

Named Texas Poet Laureate in April, 2007, Steven Fromholz is a unique Texan, who has had his songs recorded by Hoyt Axton, John Denver, Lyle Lovett, Michael Martin Murphy, Willie Nelson, Jerry Jeff Walker and dozens of others. Four years after suffering a near-fatal stroke, he's singing and playing better than ever, and he's recently written and published a book, 'Texas Trilogy' (Esteban Publishing). Fromholz describes his music as: "free-form, country-folk rock, science fiction, gospel gum, bluegrass opera, cowjazz music." Steven Fromholz is once again a huge presence on stage.

Also no surprise, however, is Kinky’s commitment to all the lost puppies of the world, and Steven Fromholz will be there to help. And in the end, Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch will save more puppies. YAY LEGENDS! YAY PUPPIES!

The dates and outlets for tickets (prices vary from city to city):
THE DATES:
4/25 The Big Easy http://www.thebigeasynightclub.com/ $50.00 8:00PM 2411 Mechanic Street, Galveston 409-762-7900

5/2 The Auslander http://www.theauslander.com/ $35-$50 7:30PM 323 Main Street, Fredericksburg 830-997-7714

5/3 Silver Spur Theatre http://www.saladosilverspur.com/ $50 7:30PM 108 Royal Street, Salado 254-947-3456

5/4 Uptown Marble Theater http://www.uptownmarble.com/ $35-$45 4:00PM 218 Main Street, Marble Falls 830-693-9996

Press and info: Cleve Hattersley 512-873-8925 cleveandmary@austin.rr.com

A very sad goodbye

2008-04-25T14:53:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we found out that Mrs. Wilson passed away. She was our next door neighbor and I really liked her. About a year ago she got really sick and had to go to the hospital. After she got out she needed someone to help her around the house so she went to live with her son. She never came back to her old house and we hadn't seen her in a really long time. Last night we found out about her death and we were all very sad.
She used to make us homemade bread and was always around to wave as we left for work. She definitely brightened our lives and we'll miss her a lot!

Dallas City Council Animal Ordinances

2008-04-24T16:07:00.000-05:00

OK City Council, it's time to do the right thing!

Next week you'll be voting on mandatory spay/neuter legislation - and there is only one way to vote! This ordinance MUST be passed. I can't believe that there is even a question here...

Last year ALONE Dallas Animal Services euthanized almost 30,000 animals – that's over 50 animals each day! And that's just Dallas Animal Services - figure in the other "kill shelters" in the city and the numbers are even higher.

Now is the time to show the people of Dallas that you can look beyond the outdated back-woods attitude that turns a blind eye to our growing animal overpopulation problem.

Remember:

Bella say, "Don't be a DUMBASS, spay or neuter your pet!"

T-shirt Sales

2008-04-13T20:43:00.000-05:00

I'm really excited! I just found out that more people are buying my "Bella says..." t-shirts! I'm selling them on Cafepress, hoping to help spread the word out the importance of adopting and spaying and neutering.

Get your own by clicking here!

Help Stop Animal Abuse!

2008-04-13T20:34:00.001-05:00

By making a donation to sponsor
an SPCA of Texas animal cruelty investigator you will help provide our
investigators with the resources they need to do their job to eliminate all
forms of animal abuse. You can choose to make a one-time or a monthly gift that
will immediately impact our investigator's work in the field.

Click here to help!

Petropolitan Commercial

2008-04-13T20:23:00.000-05:00

My friends at the Petropolitan are becoming very popular... they're really nice, so I'm not at all surprised. Chris even has a commercial for the shop. He did really well and I like watching it. Take a look, here's the link: Petropolitan Commercial

Grandpa's Birthday

2008-03-30T22:16:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Grandpa!!!
Yesterday was my grandpa's birthday and today we went to their house to celebrate. We had steak for lunch and grandma let me eat whipped cream for desert (I love that)! It's still a little chilly, but I got in the pool anyway. It was pretty cold so I just swam around, got out, rolled in the grass, laid around in the sun for awhile, then did it all over again (and again, and again). It makes me happy because I know the official swim season is almost here!

Strut Your Mutt 2008

2008-01-24T20:40:00.000-06:00

Mark you calendars -- this year's Strut Your Mutt is February 23, 2008.

Last year, thousands of animal lovers came out in support of the homeless and abused animals that are cared for at the SPCA and raised more than $115,000. In addition to the 3k walk/fun run, there will be plenty of family-fun events for you to enjoy. So, whether you are a walker, a runner or just want to hang out at the finish line, join me in celebrating our common compassion for animals.

Click this link to get all the info: SPCA website

A Big Thank You to Petropolitan!

2007-12-02T20:44:00.000-06:00

I owe Petropolitan a big THANK YOU!!! They really helped us out the day my daddy went to the hospital. They were really busy (the next day was Thanksgiving) but they took me in anyway. It really helped my mom!!! She was very worried about daddy and it made her feel a lot better that she didn't have to worry about me. They're GREAT!!!

My daddy came home today!

2007-11-27T23:40:00.000-06:00

They finally let my daddy come home from the hospital today! He's very tired and is hurting a lot, but I think he'll be much happier now that he's home with me and Rumba. Mom was spending the night at the hospital with daddy and we were getting very lonely!!! Now everything is back to normal :)

My daddy is in the hospital!

2007-11-21T21:51:00.000-06:00

Last weekend daddy went to Chicago and on the way back he got really sick. His stomach was really hurting and he stayed in bed for two days. He tried to go to work yesterday, but as soon as he got there everyone said, "You have to go to the hospital! You look horrible!" He called mom and she rushed over to get him. They went to the emergency room and found out that his appendix had ruptured! He was in a LOT of pain and everyone was very concerned! The doctor took one look at his Cat Scan and scheduled him for immediate surgery.
I was at work, so mom got really worried that she wouldn't be able to come get me. Thankfully I was with my friend Lisa! She's my best friend and she takes really good care of me! She called Petropolitan and they were able to make room for me. She packed up my treats, my bed, and my leash and took me over on her way home.
I'm really lucky to have so many people looking after me!

Mylar Update

2007-11-07T10:48:00.001-06:00

We finally found out what happened to Mylar (his name is actually "Simba", but he'll always to "Mylar" to me)!

It turns out that he actually lived two houses down from us. Since his people never put a collar on him we never knew exactly where he came from. Apparently someone didn't like Mylar so they left a nasty note on his front door saying that his people needed to keep him inside or they would call the pound and have him hauled away! I can't believe anyone would do that -- Mylar was the sweetest cat I've ever known!!!

Mylar's family tried to keep him inside, but Mylar wouldn't hear of it. He refused to use the litterbox and would cry all day and night because he liked getting to roam around outside (especially coming to our house for rotisserie chicken). His family decided that the best thing would be for him to go and live with relatives in Oklahoma. They have a bigger house and he's allowed to be outside.

We certainly miss him, but at least we know what happened and we hope he's making lots of new friends. Good Luck Mylar!!!

Last swim day of the year

2007-10-28T20:10:00.000-05:00

Today we went to grandma and grandpa's to celebrate Mom's birthday. I was really excited about getting to swim, but the water was pretty chilly. I think this was probably the last swim day of the year... I'm kind of sad, but I guess I'll just have to wait until spring :(

I did get to hang out with Buster, so that made up for my lack of time in the water. Sunbathing with a good friend can be fun too.

Halloween at Petropolitan

2007-10-20T20:07:00.000-05:00

Sam and I went to Petropolitan today for a Halloween party. I was a mummy and Sam came dressed in his OU attire. We had a lot of fun!!!

Pictures from my day at the Park

2007-10-20T19:41:00.000-05:00

Today we went to the park! We tried to go to Connemara, but it was closed... We decided to go to Breckingridge so we could play in the stream and run around. Here are some of the highlights from my day.

Me and daddy running across a big field

Me and daddy wading through a stream

Shaking off after a little swim

Me and daddy on the path

On the rocks at our secrect swimming hole

What a great day!

Mylar is missing... again!

2007-10-04T23:24:00.000-05:00

I'm really worried about Mylar. I know he's gone missing before, but this time he's been gone for weeks! We keep waiting for him to come by for breakfast and he never shows up. Mom is really upset and I'm afraid something terrible has happened! If anyone has seen him, please let me know ASAP... we really miss him!!!!!

New babies

2007-09-10T23:23:00.000-05:00

Today two of our friends had babies!!! Brandon and Angie had baby Emma and Clint and Michelle had baby Addison!!! I can't wait to see them!!!

Holly Lake Ranch

2007-09-03T23:19:00.000-05:00

This weekend we went to see our friends at Holly Lake Ranch and it was GREAT!!! Brandon and Angie have a house by the lake and I got to swim and play all day. I jumped off their dock and swam all afternoon. When everyone went to dinner I got to stay and play with Lili. We had so much fun! She likes to be chased so we ran around for hours. I hope we go back soon.

2007-08-01T12:44:00.000-05:00

Download and print this flyer to post in your neighborhood and help us put a stop to dog fighting.

Let’s take this opportunity to come together and stamp out animal cruelty and abuse of all types. For more information or to help the SPCA of Texas in its mission to provide every animal exceptional care and a loving home, please visit www.spca.org or contact us at 214.742.SPCA (7722).

New laws to protect animals go in effect September 1

2007-08-01T12:38:00.000-05:00

It was a great year for animals in the Texas legislature

Passed Legislation

Animal Cruelty: The House “concurred” with the Senate version of the animal cruelty bill (HB 2328, sponsored by State Rep. Beverly Woolley and State Sen. John Whitmire). Effective this September 1st, for the first time in Texas history, it will be a crime to:

commit acts of cruelty to stray and feral dogs and cats
“recklessly” commit cruelty to an animal (prosecutors will no longer have to prove that a person intended to commit cruelty)
kill or cause serious bodily injury to animals “in a cruel manner”—which is defined as “a manner that causes or permits unnecessary or unjustifiable pain or suffering” (it will no longer be necessary to prove “torture”)
fail to provide water to an animal in a person’s custody

A prosecutor must still prove “torture” in cases involving cruelty to “livestock animals” (horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, etc.). However, “torture” is defined as “any act that causes unnecessary or unjustifiable pain or suffering.” This is the identical protection that was given to non-livestock animals! So, for the most part, the livestock vs. non-livestock protections are a distinction without a difference. This is a huge victory for horses. And, yes, horse tripping is still a crime.

Anti-Tethering: HB 1411, sponsored by State Rep. Buddy West, prohibits an owner from tethering a dog outside between the hours of 10 pm and 6 am and during extreme weather conditions. This bill is on its way to the governor’s desk.

Dog Fighting: HB 916, sponsored by State Rep. Jose Menendez and State Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, increases the penalty for dog fighting from a Class A misdemeanor to a state jail felony and increases the punishment for attending a dog fighting exhibition from a Class C misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor.

Training and Certification of Animal Control Officers: SB 1562, sponsored by State Sen. "Chuy" Hinojosa and State Rep. Phil King, provides for training and certification of animal control officers. This bill also increased the penalty for killing or seriously injuring a police service animal from a third degree felony to a second degree felony. This bill is on its way to the governor’s desk.

Natural Disasters and Pets: HB 88, sponsored by State Rep. Dan Branch, requires that companion animals and service animals be included in evacuation plans in the event of natural disasters.

Cat's Meow Spay/Neuter Special

2007-07-01T19:43:00.000-05:00

SPCA of Texas offers discounted spay/neuter surgeries for cats

WHAT: The SPCA of Texas continues its ongoing campaign to stop pet overpopulation by offering spay/neuter services for cats at discounted prices the week of July 9-13 at the Dallas and McKinney clinics and July 10-14 at the Village Fair clinic. The spay/neuter special offers $20 spay and neuter surgeries for cats by appointment only.

As always, proof of vaccinations is required: For cats, rabies & FVRCP. Should your pet need vaccinations, each shot is $17.

WHY: If left intact, a companion animal can produce an unlimited number of offspring in his or her lifetime. Sadly, American shelters euthanize more than five million homeless dogs and cats every year, at a cost to taxpayers of more than $1 billion annually. Spaying and neutering lessens the chances of a pet developing cancer, reduces roaming tendencies and decreases the pet’s urge to mark its territory.

WHEN: Monday, July 9 through Friday, July 13 (Dallas, McKinney)Tuesday, July 10 through Saturday, July 14 (Village Fair)Cats must be in carriers.

WHERE: SPCA Martin Clinic, 362 S. Industrial Blvd., Dallas SPCA Village Fair Clinic, 4830 Village Fair Dr., DallasSPCA Perry Clinic, 8411 FM 720 (near Custer Road), McKinney
To schedule an appointment at any of the three clinics, call 214-742-SPCA (7722).

COST: $20 for neutering males or for spaying females. Vaccinations are $17 per each Rabies and combination shots for cats (Rhinotracheitis-Calici-Panleukopenia).

My Gator is gone

2007-07-01T18:56:00.000-05:00

My Gator is GONE!!! I can't believe it... today while swimming at Grandma and Grandpa's Daddy accidently threw my gator over the fence and into the shrubs on the golf course. He didn't do it on purpose, but now my favorite toy is gone!!! We tried to find it but it fell down into the tall bushes on the other side of the fence. I can't believe it's gone!!! I can't swim without my favorite pool toy!!!

This is my only picture of us together... I hope if someone on the golf course finds him they'll throw him back over the fence. I can't stand the thought of someone finding him and then just throwing him in the trash. My poor gator!!! I really loved him!!!

2007-06-30T20:48:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Aunt Melony!!!

I LOVE YOU!!!

What to do about Rumba...

2007-06-20T20:00:00.000-05:00

Mom and I are a little concerned about Rumba. She seems to be having some back problems... A couple of months ago we had to take her to the emergency clinic because she couldn't walk and was crying a lot. Of course she totally freaked out and the vet couldn't even examine her. Mom thinks she must have jumped down off the counter and hurt her back (she won't jump up on anything higher than a chair anymore). She's usually OK, but the other night it happened again. All of a sudden she was just crying and crying and she wouldn't let anyone touch her. It's very scary when that happens!!! I think we should take her to the vet, but I'm not sure how. When you try to take her she gets very upset and starts to hiss and snarl and snort. Hopefully, we'll come up with something, I don't like it when Rumba doesn't feel good...

Hotel Palomar

2007-06-17T21:00:00.000-05:00

We had a great time at the Palomar. The hotel is very nice and I really liked our room. It was a lot of fun getting to ride the elevator and walking down the halls (I wish we had carpet at home -- I like it better than wood). Mom and Dad said they were very proud of me for behaving so well. All the people that worked there were very nice to me. They even brought me a big pink and brown bed to sleep on. Mom said they have a doggie spa; I could have gotten a massage, but that sounded a little scary (I don't really like it when strangers touch me). We didn't bring Rumba because Dad didn't think cats were allowed. When we got there we found out that cats are allowed... but, I don't think Rumba would have liked it as much as me.

Hotel Palomar

2007-06-16T09:40:00.000-05:00

Today we're going to the Hotel Palomar. Mom and Dad are spending the night and I get to go too! We were going to spend the night at the Four Season's but they only allow dogs that are smaller than beagles. The Hotel Palomar allows dogs of any size -- I'm very excited.

Sunday at Grandma & Grandpa's

2007-06-10T20:50:00.000-05:00

This afternoon we went over for swimming at Grandma and Grandpa's. Mom and dad brought over some steaks and Grandpa cooked them on the grill. Aunt Melony and Mark came over too. We got out my gator and blew up the floaties! Usually I'm the only one who gets in the pool, but today everyone went swimming -- it was lots of fun. Next Sunday is Father's Day so hopefully we'll go over again. I love my Grandma and Grandpa, they're the BEST!

Yearly check-up

2007-06-09T23:02:00.000-05:00

This morning I had to go to the vet. I had to get more heartworm pills and it was time for my yearly check-up. My vet is really nice and I like him a lot. I don't mind getting my annual shots, but I have a very sensitive snout and I really hate the bordetella drops that they put in my nose. Mom also got more drops for my ears (I hate those too)! She has to use them after I go swimming or I get earaches... I guess I need them, but I sure don't like it.

Neuter Scooter II

2007-06-08T09:24:00.000-05:00

SPCA of Texas Clinics Offers Cat Neuter Special June 12

WHAT: In an aggressive effort to curb pet overpopulation, the SPCA of Texas Village Fair spay/neuter clinic will be hosting “Neuter Scooter for a Nickel” for the second time this year. Held in conjunction with Spay Day USA, the SPCA invites cat owners to take advantage of this opportunity to have their male cats fixed for just five cents.

WHEN/WHERE: All three of the SPCA of Texas' clinics will neuter male cats for just a nickel on June 12. Cat owners must make an appointment and bring proof of vaccinations or vaccines (rabies and FVRCP) will be administered at an additional charge on the day of the appointment. All cats must be in carriers; no feral cats, please.
Appointments are required. To make an appointment at any of the three clinics listed below, call 214.742.SPCA(7722).

*Village Fair Spay/Neuter & Wellness Clinic, 4830 Village Fair Dr., Dallas, TX 75224
*Martin Spay/Neuter & Wellness Clinic, 362 S. Industrial Blvd., Dallas, TX 75207
*Perry Spay/Neuter & Wellness Clinic, 8411 Stacy Road, McKinney, TX 75070

Cat drop-offs at 7:30 a.m.; pick up at 3 p.m.

WHY: Spaying and neutering results in the prevention of millions of unwanted births. Neutering also reduces a cat's chances of developing testicular cancer, diminishes roaming tendencies and decreases the urge to mark territory by spraying. If left intact, two unaltered cats can produce more than 80 million cats over a 10-year period, and one male cat can sire an unlimited number of kittens in his lifetime.

June is adodpt a shelter cat month!

2007-06-07T20:00:00.000-05:00

I really like cats! I'm not sure why... but I do. I think every dog should have several feline friends. June is adopt a shelter cat month -- if you don't already have a cat, why not go out this weekend and adopt one that needs a home!

Another great day at The Petropolitan!

2007-06-07T19:53:00.000-05:00

On Thursdays I go to The Petropolitan for "day care". I meet up with my friend Sam and we get to play all day. I get there about 8:30 and Sam comes in around 10:00. This morning while waiting for Sam, they tried to make me play with another dog I didn't know. It was pretty scary -- thankfully, they took the new dog to another play area. I'm sure he was really nice, but sometimes I get a little freaked out when I have to meet new dogs (especially if they're bigger than me). Sam finally got there and everything was fine. Everyone there is very nice and we have a fantastic time!

Another great day at Grandma & Grandpa's

2007-06-03T19:30:00.001-05:00

Today I finally got to go swimming at Grandma and Grandpa's! It's been raining for the last couple of weeks and I haven't been able to go over. Mom and dad went climbing in the morning, then we picked up some bar-b-que and headed over. I got to eat brisket and swim for hours, it was GREAT!!!

Some very sad news

2007-05-29T20:03:00.000-05:00

Our friend Roxie had to put her cat, Socks, to sleep yesterday. He woke in the morning and had an aneurysm that forced a blood clot into the base of his spine. It was very sudden and unexpected. Roxie was very sad at work today so I had to give her a little extra love... I hope it helped, even if it was only a little bit.

Mylar - FOUND!

2007-05-28T19:18:00.000-05:00

Yeah, Mylar is OK. We saw him on our walk this afternoon. I guess with all the storms and rain he's been hiding out trying to stay safe and dry. Hopefully the rain will hold off until after dinner -- there's a plate of rotisserie chicken in the refrigerator with his name on it!

Day at the Park

2007-05-27T18:01:00.000-05:00

I just got back from the park. It wasn't the park we usually go to, but it was still fun. There weren't many people there -- I guess all the recent rain scared everyone away. We walked for a long time, it was great. The only thing missing was someplace to swim. The other park has a couple of lakes and a bunch of streams that I can run and swim in. I did find several big muddy puddles that helped me cool off during the walk back to our car. I'll give it 6 out of 10 paws up!

Mylar is missing

2007-05-26T22:02:00.000-05:00

I'm getting a little worried about Mylar. He's my friend and I haven't seen him in a few days. He doesn't really have a home, he just sort of roams around the neighborhood. He usually comes by in the morning before work and then at night when we get home. Mom feeds him rotisserie chicken and he usually never misses a meal. We've asked him to come and live with us, but I guess he likes being a single cat with no strings or commitments to tie him down. I'm always worried that the cat catcher will come and take him away or that something terrible will happen to him... I really miss him and hope he's OK. Here's his picture. If you see him, tell him we miss him and we have some chicken in the fridge.

Three days off!

2007-05-26T21:54:00.000-05:00

It's so nice to have a three day weekend! Mom did all the house cleaning last night and finished the laundry today; Dad finished mowing and working in the yard -- that means that we have TWO WHOLE DAYS to do fun stuff. It's been raining a LOT, but hopefully it won't be too bad tomorrow. Dad said something about going to the park, I guess he forgot about all the mud (maybe he won't remember). Maybe we'll be able to go swimming at Grandma and Grandpa's too. They have a big house with a nice pool -- I LOVE TO SWIM!!!

My website is finally finished!!!

2007-05-26T21:06:00.000-05:00

2005-04-13T15:40:00.000-05:00