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Pet Lovers

Have a pet - or wish you did? What's your preference: dog, cat, iguana - and why? What's the craziest thing your pet has ever done? If you consider your pet to be your "best friend," tell us how he or she earned that honor.

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igetaround Is there anyone in the Phoenix area that would take a 9 year old de-clawed cat into their home while we travel for a week-up to a month. She is a sweetie.
Oct 17, 2012, 10:12 AM EDT
DonnaMcBroom-Theriot I have two West German Shepherds. Ryka is 4 and Calypso is 1.5 years. It's been a rough year and a half of being a buffer between a 70+lb. termite (Calypso) and Hubby (who was ready to give her away), a habit that seems to be at its end. Thank goodness! She has finally stopped chewing and now loves chasing her tail and dragonflies. They sit at the door waiting each morning for me to come out and walk.
Jun 26, 2012, 9:21 AM EDT
dagokid So glad u got to keep her. Mine is only 4 months and I just try and remember the other times we trained a pup. It is tuff some days....but...there are so many rewards to having pets :)
Jul 8, 2012, 3:35 PM EDT
DonnaMcBroom-Theriot I have two West German Shepherds. Ryka is 4 and Calypso is 1.5 years. It's been a rough year and a half of being a buffer between a 70+lb. termite (Calypso) and Hubby (who was ready to give her away), a habit that seems to be at its end. Thank goodness! She has finally stopped chewing and now loves chasing her tail and dragonflies. They sit at the door waiting each morning for me to come out and walk.
Jun 26, 2012, 9:21 AM EDT
dagokid We just recued a 4 month old Doberman-Weimeriner mix the other day. She is so cute and we named her (not a German name as both dogs would be) BELLA a nice Italian name :) It is my husband's dog and I have my Cocker Spaniel (4 year old Dakota). Let the FUN begin!!!!
Jun 24, 2012, 7:16 AM EDT
dontgoover55 I just bought my 6 yr. old grand-daughter a 12x36 inch pool and held my 9yr old 4 legged baby as i placed her in and all 4 leg's went in action doing the doggie paddle! She wanted out after a minute or two, I never let go of her. Didn't want to scare her too bad but in 90 degree weather,she cooled off a bit and went inside were it was cool to eat her dinner. Wish I was dog in my home! eat,sleep and poop!What would we all do with out having our fur babies to love?
Jun 25, 2012, 1:34 PM EDT
Lynx612 On Feb 8 of this year, I lost my beloved cat Missy. She was 20. She had kidney disease and had been doing pretty well for 4 years with sub-q fluids twice a week. My husband and I were devastated. It was very hard to be without her. We were torn as to getting another pet or not. It was 2 weeks of coming home to an empty house when we went to the local rescue org for cats. We adopted a flame point ragdoll cat who weighs 18 pounds!!! He's 1 1/2 years old. He is such a lover!!! We named him Moose. We will never forget Missy. But, we have opened our hearts to another animal that needed a home. We feel Missy sent this big boy to us! :-)
Mar 28, 2012, 12:25 PM EDT
Lynx612 @dontgoover55 Thanks about the insurance. We did get that for Moose. After the expenses we had with Missy about her kidney issues, we decided about getting pet insurance. It sure is different dealing with an 18 pound cat as opposed to a 6 pound cat!! LOL But, he is so sweet and funny. AND, he was a rescue to boot!! So you can get pedigree cats from a rescue! :-)
Apr 3, 2012, 9:49 AM EDT
dontgoover55 Just to add a note in case you may not know about it. I have ASPCA Pet Insurance for my 2 pets. It really helps when they get sick or have a cough or something is just not right. There are other Insurance companies as well that have good pet insurance. I pay only 20.00 amonth for my female dog who is 9 now and it has payed out over and over since she seems to have allergies and requires to be checked often. Just thought I would pass this on so if Moose ever needs medical attention, he can show his own insurance card to the Dr.! HAHA
Apr 3, 2012, 2:06 AM EDT
dontgoover55 I'm so sorry for your loss. I really do know the heartach you feel when your 4 legged family member is no longer with you.I wish we could keep our pets for as long as we live so we never have to deal with that kind of pain. I'm glad to know though,you found another one to pour out your love on.I love the name Moose. Give Moose a kiss and hug for me from my 'Dixie' and 'Kidrock'
Apr 3, 2012, 2:00 AM EDT
geea How wonderful,my cat is going on 13 so I relate to this.Hope you have many years with moose as you did with Missy.They really become a member of the family.
Mar 28, 2012, 9:13 PM EDT
Lexi Retirement: I went the opposite way. Living on a boat and working full time was not the ideal situation for a pet, however when I retired and became a landlubber once again the budget included a dog or a cat. Not being able to make the choice the decision became a Shih Tzu puppy, and a Balinese kitten . They are best buddies and we have hours of entertainment watching their antics.
Mar 27, 2012, 3:49 PM EDT
dontgoover55 Isn't it funny that almost the first thing you think of getting when moving into a new place is a cat or dog or Both! to make your home complete? I will forgo vacation offers if I can't bring one or both. It is very hard to find people to take care of,really take good care of your pets while you are gone so I just say 'no' if they can't go along. I know alot of people will say they are only animals but, I treat mine like I would want to be treated. And no they don't eat out of 14 kt bowls,lol
Jun 25, 2012, 1:41 PM EDT
Kathy-Sterndahl Although I've had pets all my life, I decided that I didn't want to be tied down by them once I retired. One of my retirement goals was to be able to travel a lot and without needing to arrange for someone to care for pets. While I sometimes miss the company and unconditional love - I've got a boyfriend for that;)- I appreciate the freedom that I have now. I'm wondering how others feel about this.
Mar 22, 2012, 12:10 PM EDT
shrinkess I think it is a matter of what works for you. If you were housebound and unable to travel, for example, a pet might be just the thing.
Aug 25, 2012, 1:58 PM EDT
dontgoover55 Hi John, You will have to check with the airline you plan to travel on. I have hears good and bad abou pets riding in the shipping cargo,its cold in there and sometimes a pet has been lost,so maybe you could buy an extra seat?and put him in a carrier,some will hold pets up to 25 lbs.I would start with getting him used to being in a confined space an hour or less at a time,maybe check with your vet about giving him something to calm him down.If you lived down the street,I would doggy sit and let Dixie girl play together!Hope safe travels.
Feb 10, 2012, 10:13 PM EST
dontgoover55 Oh my goosh! I couldn't believe it when I read someone talking about bed bugs here! Who ever it is "Go Away" This is about our pets! not pests.
Feb 10, 2012, 10:06 PM EST
jboyd228 Clifford the big red cockapoo is turning 1 yr on valentine's day. I would like to travel with him by plane, but now that he is about 25 pounds I assume he would be too big to carry on a plane for three to four hours. I am concerned that shipping in cargo will not be pleasant for him. Anyone have experience with travelling with this size dog? John
Feb 9, 2012, 10:02 AM EST
Nobleman Our new Poppy "the puppy" is doing very well. We have put about 10 pounds on her, feeding twice a day with a high quality dog food. We've had her about 10 weeks now, her first birthday has come and gone. With the weight gain, she's not so skinny and bony, she is going to be a very pretty girl when she gets grown up.
Jan 20, 2012, 8:08 AM EST
dontgoover55 Nobleman,sounds to me like Poppy has it made in the shade! aren't our pets truely a joy? Every time I see the T.V. ad that shows dog and cats that are mistreated or starved I wish I could gather up all of them and bring them home with me and show them they do not have to worry any more. I pick up my furbaby and give her a kiss and a hug and tell her how much I love her,wonder if she knows that already? You will have to keep all the puppy calls away from Poppy as she sounds like she will be a real beauty!
Jan 21, 2012, 12:19 PM EST
Nobleman Our new Poppy "the puppy" is doing very well. We have put about 10 pounds on her, feeding twice a day with a high quality dog food. We've had her about 10 weeks now, her first birthday has come and gone. With the weight gain, she's not so skinny and bony, she is going to be a very pretty girl when she gets grown up.
Jan 20, 2012, 8:07 AM EST
dontgoover55 Driving miss daisy? Please buy a doggie seat beat and buckel them in just like you do. I found one that is a harness as well as a seat belt. It saved my baby when we were hit head on by a large truck.She screamed but was not hurt. Love Dixiegirl!
Jan 20, 2012, 5:08 AM EST
dontgoover55 I have a carne terrier and she thinks she is a person in every sence of the word. One thing I knew I had to do was check into getting health insurance for her. She will be 8 years young in a few months and the health insurance has really been helpful all these years. I brought her home from a pound when she was 9 months old. Check into ASPCA or VIP pet insurance.It is not that much every month to pay and really helps in the event of illness or accidentes.
Jan 20, 2012, 4:52 AM EST
Nobleman My wife and I got a German Shepherd rescue puppy on Memorial Day weekend, 2007, my wife's first dog ever. After just short of 4 1/2 years and just days short of her fifth birthday, our beloved dog took sick and two weeks later, we had to have her put to sleep, even before we were sure what was wrong with her. Twelve days later, on November 7, we brought home another rescue puppy, another German Shepherd, to fill the huge void left by our beloved Casey. Our home is just not the same without our canine company.
Dec 15, 2011, 10:15 AM EST
doolittlehome I understand how you feel. We are working on issues with Max. He is deathly afraid of the car, and when we take him to places he NEEDS top go such as the vet, he diarrhea in the car. He had many issues with going to the bathroom too for a while. Have you spoken to the rescue league you adopted Casey from? Have you had German Shepherds before? Perhaps join a Facebook or yahoo group for adopted rescue German shepherds. It's difficult not knowing where casey came from and why, and also you miss your other dog and wish casey was more like her.
Jan 6, 2012, 9:41 AM EST
Nobleman We are having our ups and downs. Our new Poppy was about 10 months old when we got her, is about a year now, not quite 60 lbs. and still growing. Because of her having been abused prior to our getting her, she has fear and anxiety issues that are affecting our attempts to train her and integrate her into our household and daily routine. I am on pins and needles, trying to do the right thing, never knowing exactly what the right thing might be. I'm reading some Cesar Millon books in search of some good, helpful advice.
Jan 6, 2012, 8:50 AM EST
doolittlehome I fully understand. Our dog, Abby, died from lymphoma and the house was so empty. It's difficult sometimes, as I miss her dearly. And at times, compare Max with Abby.How's it working out?
Jan 3, 2012, 1:23 PM EST
Nobleman My wife and I got a German Shepherd rescue puppy on Memorial Day weekend, 2007, my wife's first dog ever. After just short of 4 1/2 years and just days short of her fifth birthday, our beloved dog took sick and two weeks later, we had to have her put to sleep, even before we were sure what was wrong with her. Twelve days later, on November 7, we brought home another rescue puppy, another German Shepherd, to fill the huge void left by our beloved Casey. Our home is just not the same without our canine company.
Dec 15, 2011, 10:14 AM EST
DonnaMcBroom-Theriot My shepherd, Sentry, became ill and died within three days, two days before Christmas Eve in 2010. I was blessed to find a breeder and purchased Calypso and received Ryka as a gift. They are both West German Shepherds. Life is lonesome without dogs.
Jun 26, 2012, 9:23 AM EDT
River Hi! I am new here. I have 2 mini dachshunds. They are 9 years old. They are not related but act as brother and sister. They are very funny and are great company.
Dec 7, 2011, 6:41 AM EST
Kalolina This is my first comment to this group. I am in the process of adopting a dog. Wish me luck. This dog, and so many others are in such a need for their forever homes. I even had the words, "Save a life, adopt a pet!" put on my new checks that I ordered. I will get back with everyone if my adoption goes through for Savannah. :-)
Nov 19, 2011, 2:04 PM EST
dontgoover55 Check into getting pet insurance.I have it and it has really helped me over the years to pay for accidentes or illnesses. Check out ASPCA or VIP, P.S. I dont work for eather one,I just know how expensive vets are and the worry you can have if your baby gets sick.
Jan 20, 2012, 4:57 AM EST
Nobleman What a wonderful thing you have done! Our "rescue" pets have the best ever, I wish you all the best with yours. Be prepared for some challenges, since housebreaking may be erratic and there may be some emotional and behavior problems, but love, patience and time will take care of all that.
Dec 15, 2011, 10:18 AM EST
CWheatley I am new here. I have a calico cat that is about seven years old. She meets me at the door when I come in and stays close by me no matter what I am doing around the house. She will only drink water from the bathroom sink. Once when she was very sick from a tick bite (she is an inside cat) the vet finally sent her home hoping she might make it because she would not eat or drink at the vet's clinic. She came home and got better very quickly. When I say Fluffy it's bedtime she will wait for me to get in bed and then come and jump upon the bed and climb on my shoulder and purr loudly til I go to sleep and then she will jump down by my feet and sleep the rest of the night. She will then pester me til I get of in the morning.She is my baby and I hope she lives a long, healthy life.
Nov 15, 2011, 2:49 PM EST
Lynx612 I had a calico too. She lived to be 20!!! She passed in Feb.
Mar 28, 2012, 12:28 PM EDT
pestmall Bed bugs
controlling and extermination. we provide a list of do it yourself bed bug control pesticides treatments to kill. Get rid of bed bugs is to just use pesticides that are especially intended to be used on your mattress.

Nov 3, 2011, 2:03 AM EDT
Kalolina This is EXACTLY why I left Facebook! This is SUPPOSE to be a social site. Since when did a PET SITE include bed bugs? I would hope you make enough money to figure how to advertise with out having to use a social site to try to get customers. If you HAVE NOT noticed........at the top of the page it says PET LOVERS. Please seek your customers elsewhere!!
Dec 7, 2011, 7:15 PM EST
Iamme I an mew also I have two male cats pepper and whatever. they are my children since my own left home they keep me busy and safe at home I love them and would not know what orhow to live with out them.
Oct 27, 2011, 5:33 PM EDT
dontgoover55 What a cute name for a cat,"Whatever"
Feb 12, 2012, 12:49 AM EST
shrinkess You are "mew" - how funny!
Dec 5, 2011, 6:27 PM EST
Susie Hello all! I'm new also. My husband and I have 3 lady cats. One is Russian Blue mix and she's the idiot of the group. Just a real "blonde". Our other girl is a gray tabby who was born with a forked tail. Little devil cat! And our last....well, she's 15 years old and beginning to fail. She's gotten the "howls" from time to time and she going into kidney failure & also receives fluids one a week which I do here at home. She was with my husband before I was and it's not going to be easy when the time comes for her to pass on. Needless to say, our house has fur!
Aug 23, 2011, 10:40 AM EDT
Lynx612 My Missy had kidney issues too. She was getting fluids twice a week and she was howling. Hav eyou had her thyroid checked? That could also cause howling. I lost my girl in Feb. She was 20! She lived for 4 years on fluids! So don't count her out yet!
Mar 28, 2012, 12:31 PM EDT
geea
Jul 22, 2011, 9:34 AM EDT
Robertag Hello..I am new here too! I have a Russian Gray cat (has green eyes) named Rhea and 2 beta fish...with a divider in the same tank...Oscar and Felicia!!! Everyone get this!!
Jul 21, 2011, 6:53 PM EDT
dontgoover55 I get it,even though it's a yr later to reply. how funny! I guess you have to be old enough to remember watching 'the odd couple' It was one of my favorite shows
Jun 25, 2012, 1:50 PM EDT
Lynx612 Hi! I'm new here. I have a calico cat that will be 20 years old next month. She goes for subq fluids twice a week for kidney issues. She's a little trooper! My husband and I love her dearly. She has become the DIVA of the house. Just wanted to share. Thanks!
Jul 8, 2011, 4:35 PM EDT
geea How wonderful! I pray my Henry lives long too.
Jul 8, 2011, 7:12 PM EDT
geea I have a 11 1/2 year old cat.I,ts been he and I together for the last 12 years.I thank god for him daily.What a personality he has,and keeps me laughing.
Jul 5, 2011, 7:40 PM EDT
bluema Hello i have a yorkie terrie she is so sweet . She is my best friend cause when i'm down she comes up kisses me , shes always going every were i go. she is 6yrs old i love her to death
Jun 24, 2011, 10:11 PM EDT
shrinkess I have a Pom that does the same thing. FEELS GOOD!
Mar 12, 2012, 4:30 PM EDT
jdoubled Hello....I have a little black poodle. She knows what I am going to do before I do it.
Jun 7, 2011, 7:06 PM EDT
Goldieandgang Hello everyone...just had to say hello and tell you that we have 11 dogs! All rescues, spayed and neutered. Most came from shelters,and many were on the "kill list". They ranged in age from 3 months to 4 years old when we got them. 9 are Pit Bull Terriers (or flavors thereof), and our latest "additons" are two Plott Hound Pups...that we have had since January. Our lives are not dull, to say the least... Yes, it takes a lot of time and committment to have that many four legged critters in our family, but they are definitely worth it. If you want a pet, please consider adopting one at your local shelter. :)
Jun 5, 2011, 12:50 PM EDT
Kalolina Thank you for all the adoptions that you took upon yourself. Those pets are surely blessed. I don't see a problem with someone having this many pets as long as they can provide all the medical and prevention medications plus the spay and neutering that may need to be done. Now if someone were taking on this many animals and not having the funds to provide totally for them, then I would be heart broken. Best wishes to you and your extended family!! :-)
Dec 7, 2011, 7:19 PM EST
emmacoker2010 God bless you for your kindness,I also got my dog from the sheltr her name is Omie but she will only answer to big girl, She is a black lab and thinks she is a lap baby lol
Nov 6, 2011, 1:55 PM EST
onlqqker Hello everyone, I have two Boston Terriers and love them to pieces. My oldest one is 12 and has just recently been diagnosed with a low grade cancer in his mouth. He is doing good now, but the prednisone he is taking is making him act like an old man. He wets himself when he is sleeping. And, he seems to have forgotten all about asking to go outside. My other BT is about three and in good health. BTs always want to play, no matter how old they are. But, they also will cuddle next to me while I am reading or watching TV,
May 29, 2011, 6:03 PM EDT
dontgoover55 I know this is a late post, but, maybe pampers at nite? you can cut a little hole for his tail. But, how cute they sound!
Jun 25, 2012, 1:54 PM EDT
Kalolina Try going back to a schedule of taking your dog out to go potty two hours after eating and drinking and he should be fine...making his last trip to the bathroom around 10pm should help him from going on himself during the night. Just a thought.
Dec 7, 2011, 7:22 PM EST
Autumnwine350 we currently have 2 dogs.sisters from same litter, but different as night and day- they are from pure bred mom(shitsue) and a dad of spaniel?(unsure)anyway- Jasmine is black and white with ears like a spaniel and Summer is sandy Lab look.They are kennel trained and never apart so its cute to watch them.They play together, exchanging roles but love individual attention. They can both be affectionate to the point of annoying but its laughable they way they try to outdo each other. We love them and would't change a thing.
May 29, 2011, 2:19 PM EDT
Kalolina How cute!!
Dec 7, 2011, 7:23 PM EST
dagokid Dogs are great. I had a Cocker Spaniel for about 5 month, and my husband of 45 dies of a sudden heart attack (in my arms) and beleive me....was she ever company for me. I would work 8 hrs 5 days a week, and, always know she would be waiting for me. Tabitha did however spend "2 wks" looking for Bill around the house, and, waitig for him to return home from work. My new husband Rick and I have Dakota, a Cocker Spaniel, now and he is the same way...loving, cuddly and a bit on the slow side. I do mean that in a "loving way"!!!! We have a lot of fun wit him :)
May 23, 2011, 1:04 PM EDT
Kalolina I am sooooooooooooo sorry to hear about your lost. Looks as though things have taken a change for the better. Best wishes to you, the new husband and your pets. :-)
Dec 7, 2011, 7:25 PM EST
Terri I had a wonderful dog named Trapper. We caught her in a live trap set for coons in S. Ms.when she was quite young. The craziest and sweetest thing she did was help me find eggs the chickens laid in the woods or under the house.She was part Lab and she carefully brought me any eggs I couldn't find or get to for the heavy under brush. Never broke one,
May 5, 2011, 4:17 PM EDT
Kalolina Now that is ONE talented dog!!
Dec 7, 2011, 7:26 PM EST
AnnH What a neat dog! It is always fun to hear stories about what pets can do that is helpful and different. Thanks for sharing your story.
May 6, 2011, 1:20 PM EDT
BonBonL Just want to say thanks for the tips on dog sitting and feeding. I'm sure it will prove to be helpful in the near future. Have a great day everybody!!!!!
May 4, 2011, 9:53 AM EDT
luchito BonBonL: When a dog comes to visit our house (once a year). We take him out to do his proper needs discharge (solids and liquids); first thing in the morning. Walk with him for at least half a mile. At the end of this journey the dog is ready to eat. He knows you are doing something for him!!
May 4, 2011, 6:50 AM EDT
dagokid this is EXCELLENT advice. :)
May 23, 2011, 1:05 PM EDT
BonBonL Hello out there!!! I need some help here. Recently I dog sat for a very good friend of mine while she went away for 3 days. This is my first time dog sitting but I have a tremendous love for dogs and cats so that wasn't the problem. The dog I babysat is Yorkie, about 2 1/2 years old, male -- everything was fine (going for a walk; sleeping) except for eating. I imagine he was so stressed and depressed for his mommy that he would not eat for me. I tried several different items and ones he especially likes but to no avail. When mommie came home he ate 2 plates of food for her. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what I can do to make hime eat for me? She has asked me to dog sit for her again this coming October for a week!!!!! I know that he will probably eat for me sooner or later but in my heart of hearts I really wish it would be sooner if you know what I mean. Should I take him some treats the next time I go over for a visit??? Maybe if I did that while mommie was there he would get use to me feeding him. Tell me what you think. Sure would appreciate any help you could give me. Thank you BonBonL
May 3, 2011, 9:38 AM EDT
dhlyankee Hi, Over the last 15 years I have had 7 yorkies. Six from the same Yorkie family, one I got after a divorce. Yorkies are great, with a few exceptions. When my youngest "angel" was three months old she ran into a problem when she became dehydrated while being too playful for a prolonged period of time and one other time the vet told me her sugar was too low from not eating (also due to to much extended playtime) Both times resulted in vet bills, so Yorkies really have to be watched alittle closer then other breeds when it comes to eating and drinking. Other then that, they are sturdy and fearless little creatures to say the least. I wouldn't know what to do without her. As a matter of fact, I gave my ex-husband the house in which I was born and raised in, fully paid for in Conn. because the Yorkies that we had were also born and raised there and I didn't want them to give up their home even though I wanted out of the situation. So, indeed,there are few things that I wouldn't do for my animals.
Dec 9, 2011, 12:51 PM EST
PaulT First, stop worrying the dog will not starve itself to death. An animal can tell if you are not comfortable with it, put the food down and walk away. If it does not eat, take the dish away until later in the day and put it down again. If it does not eat for a day or two it will be fine. Don’t fawn over and fuse over it and get stressed out. If you think it will make you feel better, then go over several times at feeding time and you get out the food and set it down for the dog, making sure the dog sees you doing it so it knows who is feeding it. Dogs are great animals for pets, but they are animals and the those instincts will kick in if you let them.
May 3, 2011, 4:49 PM EDT
bee4931 Had Luna, she bit a small dog, and they took her from us. She accidentally got out. She stayed in a fenced yard. Ins. co won't let us have her back. She will be going to Philadelphia to live with a Lawyer. We have annie, who is so lonesome, getting a Britainly spaniel from the animal shelter, to be her friend. We are grieving terribly for Luna.
Apr 27, 2011, 10:03 PM EDT
AnnH Dear bee4931, I am so sorry to hear of what happened. All the best to you and in finding a new friend for Annie. I'm sure Luna misses all of you, but will be happy in her new home in time.
Apr 29, 2011, 11:41 AM EDT
pjblue2 Hi All...New to the site. I have three dogs...all rescues. Toby (Bichon mix), Beau (Maltese), and Chuy (Yorkie/Pom). They are the light of my life. My only problem with them is that I never get to do any traveling anymore, because I refuse to kennel, and friends really don't want to care for three dogs-one w/ epilepsy.
Apr 20, 2011, 1:32 PM EDT
dagokid Your dogs so "adorable" and I do know how you feel. Our Cocker is almost 4 and finally we can leave him for an entire day almost with out an accident. We travel an hour and a half each way to see family, and they don't wish his company (and that is fine) so we started out slowly, then added more time. I was injured in a fall in April and had to go to the hosptial and he did fantastic all night. We were amazed :) You never know how good they will behave untill you give them a chance and great for "emergencies" such as ours :) GOOD LUCK you should never stop going place you know :)
May 23, 2011, 1:07 PM EDT
dagokid Your dogs so "adorable" and I do know how you feel. Our Cocker is almost 4 and finally we can leave him for an entire day almost with out an accident. We travel an hour and a half each way to see family, and they don't wish his company (and that is fine) so we started out slowly, then added more time. I was injured in a fall in April and had to go to the hosptial and he did fantastic all night. We were amazed :) You never know how good they will behave untill you give them a chance and great for "emergencies" such as ours :) GOOD LUCK you should never stop going place you know :)
May 23, 2011, 1:07 PM EDT
AnnH pjblue2, have you checked to see if there are any pet sitting services in your area? When I was in school I used to pet sit in peoples homes, often becasue the owners did not want to board their pets sometimes it was because the animals were old and had medical problems. It would be worth checking on. I have to say the new "doggie spas and day cares" in my area are so nice now that kids wanted to jump in the pool when they visited with a friend dropping of their pet.
Apr 20, 2011, 4:49 PM EDT
OK you've got me on that one! I'll bet they are great at the "downward dog" position.
Apr 18, 2011, 5:31 PM EDT
I live with 5 Mini Dachshunds (3 rescues)so everyday is kind of a crazy day! I am truly grateful for my 5 "Little's" as I call them and cherish everyday that I have the privilege of their company and companionship.I used to be on the BOD of a national rescue plus fostered over 13, so I have pretty much seen it all. Crying one minute and laughing the next! I now teach Yoga to dogs (Doga Yoga) that is especially beneficial to rescues & dogs that are elderly or suffering from joint problems. What a great life I have!
Apr 18, 2011, 1:48 PM EDT
BonBonL I had a cat named B.W. (for black/white) he was only 3 yrs old and I had to give him up because of the loss of my job. Anyway, every day when I would come home from work he would great me at the front door just like a child and stand on his back paws and place his front paws up on my leg for me to pick him up. I sure do miss him. I hope he got a good home I took to the ASPCA in hopes they wouldn't put him down. Once you leave a pet at the ASPCA you are not allowed to find out if they got a home or not so you are always left wondering. Oh well, I loved you B.W.
Apr 18, 2011, 12:06 PM EDT
AnnML I'm sure he found a loving new home, filled with toys and all the cat nip he can handle. I'm sure someday you will be blessed with another pet.
May 2, 2011, 10:04 PM EDT
luchito My cat is a hunter/fighter and in the summer he always bring home his personal contribution: birds, squirrels, mice or equivalent. They keep mice in check, ALL the time.
Apr 17, 2011, 9:34 AM EDT
BonBonL Cats are easy to take care of -- what are you crazy!!! Seriously, if you have a cat that has been neutered/spayed and keep them inside they are not much trouble at all and believe me you can train a cat as well as a dog!!! They make good weather forecasters and guard cats -- They let you know when a storm is approaching before you hear the first sound of thunder and especially if you haven't had time to watch the news/weather report. Don't diss the cat world it truly is wonderful - the only thing with dogs is you have to walk them every morning and evening with a cat they can walk themselves inside your home.
Apr 14, 2011, 12:36 PM EDT
luchito Fish, easier to handle than cats. Cats, easier to handle than dogs.
Apr 12, 2011, 9:32 PM EDT
My kids are driving me crazy wanting a pet, so far I have been able to keep it to gold fish! Every year it gets worse, even my husband is in their camp on this one. It would have to be a dog, (once again read my husband) something that would make good family pet. Does anyone have suggestions of ones to consider?
Apr 12, 2011, 12:21 PM EDT
My kids are driving me crazy wanting a pet, so far I have been able to keep it to gold fish! Every year it gets worse, even my husband is in their camp on this one. It would have to be a dog, (once again read my husband) something that would make good family pet. Does anyone have suggestions of ones to consider?
Apr 12, 2011, 12:21 PM EDT
MsJuneRose Hi everyone...I have 2 Jack Russell's that are my little girls. They were both shelter dogs...We got them both when they were pups. the oldest one is now 12, Missy is a long hair Jack, we call her the Diva, and the other is Emma, she is 9.The youngest one seems to have the most health problems, she has skin problems, allergies and she is a Drama Queen. We love our girls very much.
Mar 19, 2011, 6:34 AM EDT
I've heard that Jack Russell's can be very "high" energy when they are younger. Did you find that with yours?
Apr 12, 2011, 12:02 PM EDT
AnnH You and your Jack Russell's are both very lucky to have found each other. I'm always happy to hear of animals that get a second chance.
Mar 19, 2011, 1:55 PM EDT
I have 5 Mini Dachshunds as my constant companions and during these very cold winter months they are like little heaters. 4 of my little ones are rescues and it is a daily adventure in teaching them not to be afraid and that this is forever! I am the fortunate one!!!
Dec 27, 2010, 5:39 PM EST
LovesToRead You are a wonderful lady for taking in 4 rescue dogs. So often people forget what great dogs they can be with love and the right family.
Feb 17, 2011, 10:59 PM EST
GroovyGranny My husband & I share our home with 3 small dogs. Goldie is a 16 yr old peke/pom, Cheech is a 5 yr old chihuahua, & Twister is a 3 yr old pomeranian. They are all very spoiled.
Dec 22, 2010, 5:59 PM EST
AnnML Sorry to hear about Goldie, it is always hard to loose a pet. I love the name you have picked out for your new addition, Zoey. Every Zoey I've met has tons of personality, I'm sure your will to. Let us know how things are going with him.
May 2, 2011, 10:09 PM EDT
GroovyGranny Since posting this, we had to put Goldie down. Bless her heart, she just couldnt get around anymore. Now, I have her in a cedar box so I can take her with me if we move. She'll always be special to me. Yes, chihuahua's do have wonderful personalities. Watching our chihuahua is funny, too. He's a trip! We're about to be getting a new puppy. A 'Morkie'- half Yorkie, half Maltese. She's so cute & I've already named her Zoey.
Apr 13, 2011, 11:38 AM EDT
ErikD I have a couple of Chihuahuas too that I took in for a "short time" a couple of years ago. Well they are still here and I have to admit they have so much personality they really are funny to watch.
Feb 19, 2011, 10:05 PM EST
shesakafira we are owned by two cats a calico [F Katt} and maine coon {M Tiger} They count heads and know when not everyone is home when they should be ....How do they tell time?...These two are very vocal when things are not right while they are allowed to graze and we keep two small bowls of dry food available all the time. Nether One can bear to see an empty bowl and complain if ther is not something in both ? how be it we can split the one bowl and they are ok with that? just so something is there . The calico is my mans constant companion in sleep no matter where he nods off she will join him when he enters deep sleep. the maine coon has to have the basin in the rest room dripping for his water. If company turns it off he sashays down the hall complaining loudly .the calico uses the scratch post and she is declawed the maine coon has his and uses anything but the post? We four are pieces of a puzzle that fit and it makes life more enjoyable ...My guy enjoys them racing to the front room when he gets in from work ...he calls them our kids :) ok thats my story and am sticking to it. I personally have raised rotties and chihuahuas . and kept shepherds, collies, great danes, and terriers .
Dec 7, 2010, 4:34 PM EST
luchito Chevy: I had a similar experience a couple of years ago. We had two cats at that time. The remaining cat missed his friend and did not touch his bowl of food for a few days!
Oct 1, 2010, 2:52 PM EDT
Jo-Anne Yup, I actually think that animals can literally get depressed - or saddened. Don't know this for a fact - but if I get sick or am away, then my pet gets "out of sorts."
Oct 9, 2010, 10:05 PM EDT
Chevy One of my cats died recently. He was almost 19 years old and was suffering in the end, so I had him put dow. It was an agonizing decision. But I know I did the right thing. AND, the vet's office actually sent me a sympathy card a few days afterwards. That was very much appreciated.
Oct 1, 2010, 2:31 PM EDT
The vet sending out a sympathy card, was lovely. What a great office!
Apr 12, 2011, 12:06 PM EDT
Flora51 you would be surprized how many pet lovers there really are out there that understand just what you are going thru with the loss of your pet. I had a friend recently that lost his dog and told me about 'Pet Angels' that is the name of a company in our area that is so similar to a funeral service its unreal..they will come and pick up your loved one, cremate them, take a paw cast and hair clipping and let you choose a lovely urn for your pet. they also console you and check up on you later to make sure you are doing ok. I couldnt believe this when he told me. when my dog died at age 13, i was devastated and everyone treated me like i was some kind of nut ball for crying at my desk the whole week of her death.you cant take off work when your pet dies.. guess things have changed in the few short years since then and i am so glad for that.
Mar 14, 2011, 11:51 PM EDT
Jackie I had to put a long-time pet down a couple of weeks ago for the same reasons Chevy did. Sophie-cat was most attached to my husband, who died in February last year. She was quite old and got very sick, but I sometimes wonder if my husband's passing didn't add to her health problems, even though I know it was only a matter of time given her age.
Jan 9, 2011, 7:02 PM EST
onlqqker I have four Boston Terriers and they are absolutely the best dogs. My oldest will soon be 12 and I dread the day he dies. The others are 3 years old and under. They are like kids. So much company. My real Kids and grandkids live close so the BTs are not replacements for them, just additions. I find myself talking to them, especially Gumbo, the oldest. There is just something about the way he looks at me while I am talking that makes it seem that he truly understands. And, then again, my kids are collecting 'mama' stories and love to tell people about how I treat the critters.
Sep 13, 2010, 11:39 PM EDT
gelf I agree with you TOTALLY, Tony! I knew I was going to lose my home in FL and a friend here in NJ said I could move in with her...me and my 5 fur babies...3 dogs and 2 cats. All the "kids" my late husband and I had were rescued from abuse and abandonment. They were all I had left in the world and I was all they ever knew. At the end of Jan. of 09, my friend told me that she was in financial trouble and a whole bunch of other stuff that never came to pass and I had to move. That is when I died all over again because I had to find new homes for my 3 dog kids. With help from ABOVE and a lot of wonderful rescue people, I found them all good homes but my heart is forever broken. I still have my 2 cat kids although the one, Boots is very old and I fear doesn't have much longer. Also, the last week of July, my oldest dog kid had to be put to sleep due to age and illness but she was Jake's girl...Daddy's girl...so now at least they are together now. That day that they were picked up and gone from me was the second nail in my heart.
Aug 18, 2010, 10:16 PM EDT
Tony Give me a dog any old day. They truly are man's best friend. My Harry has been with me through thick and thin - and I can count on him more than any of my human friends. He's a real mutt, and has a great, mellow nature.
Jul 27, 2010, 5:19 PM EDT
blondie We have an old beagle that was given to us 7 years ago,from a judge friend, after being taken from an abusive owner. She has come along way from being a cowering, fearful dog, to one that loves everyone and wags her tail when she sees us.We also have a two year old German Shepherd that was given to me as a birthday present.Just a few months ago my son gave me his cat when it was determined that my grandson was allergic to it.They are all so much fun to have around!
Jul 14, 2010, 2:34 PM EDT
Jo-Anne Blondie, I would just luvvvvv to get a dog - but I have a cat who acts like he's the rightful king of the neighborhood. When my "grand-dog" (a golden retriever) comes and stays for a couple of days, the cat (Snickers) takes off. What is your secret for the apparant peace you have between your beagle, german shepherd and your cat? You're doing something very right!!!
Jul 15, 2010, 6:26 AM EDT
Sankatylight We have 4 doggie children. I love them, they keep me company during the day and provide so much entertainment.
Jul 12, 2010, 12:10 PM EDT
Jo-Anne You are blessed - 4 times over!!! I wonder if they all get along with one another?
Jul 13, 2010, 8:24 AM EDT
luchito To own a pet (in my case a cat) is like having again a child. We need to feed them, to keep them clean (clean the litter) and making sure that the hair and nails are kept in check. I guess these activities must be done with any pet. We get in return: unconditional love and somebody to "talk to" to get a good distraction and to feel comfortable as time goes by.
Jun 19, 2010, 7:35 AM EDT
Jo-Anne Let me introduce you to Snickers. Snickers, now 8 years old, was born on a farm and I adopted him at about 10 weeks. He was just a terrified ball of tangerine orange fur. Now, however, he's the king of our suburban neighborhood.

And those who say that cat's aren't affectionate should come and meet Snickers. Every night, before retiring, I call out the word, "Sleepyyyy" and Snickers comes running - right up the stairs and into my bedroom. Once I'm under the covers he leaps up on top of the bed - on top of me, and there he'll stay. What a luv!

Jun 6, 2010, 8:06 PM EDT
dontgoover55 my cat 'kidrock' wants to sit on my shoulders,never in my lap. He found me when he was 6 weeks old and all alone in a big city. He is now 4 yrs old and is his own king in his own yard and him home. I think because I used to carry him around on my shoulders all the time when he was little,he thinks that is 'his place' and when we all go to bed,my 9 yr old terrier gets as close to my head as possible,soon it is a dog and cat on my pillow and me at the end of the bed!
Jun 25, 2012, 2:09 PM EDT
dagokid We just recued a 4 month old Doberman-Weimeriner mix the other day. She is so cute and we named her (not a German name as both dogs would be) BELLA a nice Italian name :) It is my husband's dog and I have my Cocker Spaniel (4 year old Dakota). Let the FUN begin!!!!
Jun 24, 2012, 7:17 AM EDT

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