Abbie's fine...but another client not so good

Abbie is good and not getting any treats.

Can you tell? Shhhhhh, Abbie, don't tell Mama.

We have been fine and have enjoyed quite a bit of time together. I rarely leave but today was a little bit different.

I have a client who lives very close to Abbie. She was away on a business meeting in Orlando. She has the four dogs you can see WAYYYY back on my older posts on my blog. She built an add-on to her home for her dogs to live until she brings them in the house. Her house sits on about 5 acres and is very remote. I go there early morning and late night to put her dogs to bed and wake them up. I enter her house to get medication and never thought about the possibility of someone being in the house. Today, I picked her up at the airport at 12:30. We went straight to her house and then I returned to check on Abbie before going to WalMart. My client wanted to ride along to WalMart with me as she needed to pick up a few things. We dropped her suitcase in her living room and she joined me in the truck and we left. After grabbing a bite to eat and going to WalMart (90 minutes) we returned to her house where I dropped her off. I was on my way back to Abbie when she called me frantic and crying. Someone had robbed her home and she was afraid they were still in the house. I made it back to her at lightening speed to find her a nervous mess! The back french doors and the front door were unlocked and the french doors were broken where they forced their way in. When she entered she noticed the suitcase was not where she left it and a bad feeling came over her before realizing something wasn't right. I did my best to calm her down and we called the police. It took them 90 minutes to respond. They checked the entire house and found no one. But, it was obvious they were frightened off as they left evidence that they were not done stealing the laptop, the printer, the DVD player, stereo, etc. It appeared they loaded her suitcase with jewelry and other small items, took a painting off the wall and ransacked some drawer.

After speaking with the police, we suspect that she and I frightened them off when we stopped to drop her suitcase. She did not enter except to drop it off, change pants in her living room and leave. The upstairs bedrooms were ransacked and we believe they were up there when we were there. This was a very scarey ordeal and we were both left a little shaken. I called a friend to go to her house and stay with her tonight as I am pet sitting with Abbie and would never leave her alone.

So, you see, the life of a pet-sitter is seldom mundane! Between unknown critters and robbers....I think it is time I write a book called 'Pet Sitting Ain't Easy'!

Earry Sound.......

We are keeping our ears open for any new rustling in the closet. The pest control technician came out yesterday to investigate our noise in the closet. Just as it happens when you have a 'noise' in your car and take it to the mechanic, only to find that the noise didn't happen when the mechanic was driving it.....this was the case with pest control. He opened the closet door and looked where I told him the noise was coming from. There were shelves there and no sign of pest droppings. We looked in the adjoining Water Heater closet to find no droppings in that closet either. However, he did say there was a hold that something could get through. He placed two adhesive traps in each of the two closets and said 'Well...we will see what turns up'. With that said, he turned and left. So, Abbie and I are keeping our ears open (as you can see) and if I hear it again, I'm going in with my camera!!! It was pretty quiet last night but we did hear noises the night before.
Other than our adventures in the closet, everything is quite peaceful. Abbie gets her daily walk and I just learned yesterday that she is trained to carry a package to the door. And, if she is NOT trained, er, uhhhh....I trained her to carry the package to the door. She amazes me everytime I sit with her. She has got to be the brightest of all my fur children. Well, besides all my other client's fur children :-)

Me, Abbie and an Unknown Culprit!

I am back at Abbie's and she loved seeing me. She always wags her tail and lets me know that I am a welcome member to her household. However, I didn't realize the household had grown. Abbie lives in one of the nicest homes I stay in. Always organized, immaculate and very well appointed inside and out.
We decided to settle in and watch some television tonight. We typically stay in the master bedroom as Abbie is used to sleeping in this room. We were busy putting some last minute things away when both of us heard something. No kidding, she perked her head up at the same time I perked my head up. We listened intently for a moment and then looked at each other as if to say 'What was that?'
Now all kind of things are racing through my mind. We followed the noise. It was a rustling noise as if someone or something was going through clothing. We approached the bathroom and soon discovered the noise was coming from the closet in the Master bathroom. We both stood by the door listening and what noise had once stopped, it was now beginning to get louder. My heart was racing and I kept thinking whatever was in there was big enough to make all this noise. Naturally, my first thought was that there was a person hiding in the closet. Of course, I wasn't being very logical at this point as nerves had taken over. Abbie and I went to the kitchen and got a knife and then I promptly went back to the closet door and said 'Whoever is in there better come out because I have a knife'. Yeah, right! I pride myself with having a good sense about me, but in retrospect, this was probably the dumbest move I've made to date!
When I realized a person could not have gotten into the house without breaking a door or setting off the alarm, I decided I was safe, but kept the knife anyway. We continued to listen to this relentless noise. It was not frightened by our presence. It was large enough to make rustling noise through the clothes in that closet. AND....we could hear it knawing on the inside of the wall.
We left the bathroom after spending a LOT of time talking to whatever is in there. We left, closed the door and refuse to use that bathroom at all!
I don't want to alarm Abbie's Mom and Dad, but I thought you should know that your family has grown! Stay tuned for an update on our friend!

One Elk of a scare!

By the looks of these two, you would think it is always calm at their house. Usually, it is! But, last night around dusk, we decided to go for a walk. I opened the door and Ursa (black lab) took off with me on the other end of her lead. Ben was a little slower getting out the door, but once I got my bearings to see what Ursa was chasing, I was face to face with two large Elk. They were grazing the lawn and Ursa was about to let then know she was large and in charge. I managed to restrain her and we headed right back in the house. The Elk grazed for another 30 minutes before disappearing into the trees that line the road to their house.
When I knew the coast was clear, we mounted up again and went out side. This time Ben (the senior) took off after a flash that ran through the bushes behind their house. All I know is that it was bigger than a rabbit, but not as big as a dog....so, I'm still left to wonder what that anmal was. I've never seen Ben move that fast as he usually walks with a lumber and doesn't hurry to do anything! I turned around and he was gone....I called out to him several times and couldn't see hide nor hair of him. I quickly took Ursa back into the house and went outside to find Ben. I called and called and no sight of him. I was really starting to worry and was probably looking only 15 minutes when I caught a flash of his red fur behind a bush. It took him some time to find a spot between the bushes that he could fit between, but eventually, he found his way to his property and we were back in the safe comfort of their home.
Each time something like this happens to me, it teaches me a new lesson.

First: Avoid going out at Dusk

Second: Look out the door before exiting!

The rest of the evening was uneventful. All the animals are doing well. Ben has had a problem with his bowels since I arrived, so I cooked him some brown rice and I have been adding it to his kibble. He's digesting it well and he has improved. Of course, Ursa gets some too as it wouldn't be fair to see those big brown eyes looking up at me wondering where her treat was. Ursa's chest is healing very nicely and there haven't been any incidents with it so far.

To more days here and their Mommy and Daddy will be home. I'll be back here in September and will look forward to that visit as well.

Awwwww Relaxation

You can see that these animals are not well-adjusted...just look how timid she is, she is on the edge of her seat....can't seem to sit still....YEAH, Right! This is Ursa. She is the comedienne. When she sleeps.....she SLEEPS! She's also a bed hog. I wake up with a paw in my back or worse...her butt in my face! Yesterday she displayed a little bit of bad behaviour. First of all, she got the bag of treats I brought them and ate the whole bag. Poor Ben probably didn't get any. Then, last night she wanted to eat Mia! She truly scared me as she was seriously after that cat. By the looks of the picture above, you would think they were forever friends, but apparently Mia did something to tick her off.

All are doing well. I don't think Ben is feeling spiffy and he has had problems (the runs) since I arrived. I will make him some rice today to try and get his stomach back in shape. If I remember, this is a constant with him as I think he had the same problem last time I was here. Ricky the kitty has not gotten past me the last couple of days! HA....I WIN!

Happy Ending...

My day was full of fear that I had lost my client's beloved cat. I worried when she/he did not come home after an hour. I went outside every two hours looking for her/him. After 12 hours, I was sure something had happened to her/him. I went to the door at 9pm and found her waiting to come in the house. As fast as she ran out the door, she ran in the door. That's it! This is one cat that won't see the light of day as long as I am here! What a relief!

Spring White!

Well, it has been snowing here since yesterday morning. The dogs are nestled in their beds and don't seem to care because I am here with them and they have all they need.
The little black cat, on the other hand, is determined to give me a heart attack. We have never talked about them being indoor or outdoor cats, but as far as I am concerned they are all indoor when I am on watch! LOL.
Well, she darted out the door again this morning. She has yet to come back and I am beginning to worry. I wonder if this is something she does all the time? I would hate to think anything would happen to her, but she seems to think this is normal for her. I check the door every ten minutes waiting on her return. I will not relax until I see her little black face come back through the door.
Another thing I didn't discuss with the fur children's parents is Ben. He seems to be in quite a bit of joint discomfort. He has also had the runs since I got here. We are going outdoors in the middle of the night and he does his business every time we go out. Other than that, everything is fine. I am fortunate that I am not working elsewhere and I can spend a whole lot of time with them. They will be sick of me by the time I leave!

Peaceful Paws.....

If you have read one of my first blogs, you will know that I have a great client in North Bend, Wa. These babies live on a large lot of land nestled in the base of Snoqualmie Mountain. It is always peaceful here as you cannot see a neighbor and it is surrounded by big green Evergreens. This also means there is a lot of wildlife in the area. Washington is famous for their Elk and they sometimes can be seen running the property.

Ursa, the black Lab, went out one day and came back with her chest ripped and wounded. I don't know the details, but this must have been frightening to her owners as these fur children are just that....'Children'. They rushed her to the Vet Hospital and the vets assured them it was only a superficial wound and no arteries or bones were compromised. She is recouperating and recently had the drains removed. She is doing very well and in fact, has been 'hounding' Ben to play. She is feeling her Cheerios today!

Ben is the gentle giant. He moves slow and deliberately and sometimes seems to forget where he is at. He is sweet as sugar, but I am sure the age is catching up with him as it is with all of us! He slept at the foot of the bed last night as Ursa jumped up to sleep right by my side. Pretty soon, Ricky the cat joined us and wanted to sleep on my head. Hey, its their house...they can sleep anywhere they want.

The other cat, Mia gave me a scare this morning. She darted out the door when we were going out for a walk. She took off into the woods and all I could think of was how I was going to get her back in. I walked around the property calling her name, but she didn't appear. I would go to the door every 15 minutes and after several trips, I noticed it started snowing. Just then, she came running around the corner and darted back into the house as quickly as she darted out.

I now leave the front door backwards to make sure she doesn't do this to me again.

Everyone is sleeping in their perspective beds. They are enjoying the fact that they get a treat like clockwork, never have to wait for their meal and they have a warm body to sleep with. Doesn't get any better than that!

The Dynamic Duo......

Meet Oscar and Otis. I don't get to see these two very often, but when I do, they greet me as if I were a long-lost friend. They hear my car pull up and begin barking. Once I have reached the garage, they run up to the deck and wait patiently (okay, IMpatiently) until I open the slider to let them in. And, even though they are in for a short time, they are always grateful that I have come to visit. They have sweet dispositions although they each have their own personality. As most of my fur friends know....I always come equipped with treats for them. Oscar is sweet and he is the talker. He talks from the time I arrive until the time I leave. Otis is much less talkative, but one look from those big brown eyes and he "had me at hello!"

Today was my last day to take care of them and I will miss them until the next time. They were perfect little dog angels!

Coming to an end.....

Ginger and I have had fun. She is full of P. an V. (if you know what I mean). She runs to the door when I come in and jumps and barks as if to say 'Its about time'! We have gotten into a rhythm and I visit with all the nurses that work at Ginger's house. She is used to my coming and going and knows when I am going to feed her. She also knows I never leave the house without treats first! I sometimes wonder who is alpha person.

We like to roam the back grounds and talk to Mr. Ed. That is what I have named the gray horse behind their property. The first day I was walking Ginger, the horse came over to the fence and I swear he said 'Hi'......I called him Mr. Ed and he didn't mind. Anyone reading this blog under the age of 50 has no idea what I am referring to when I call him Mr. Ed.....for you youngins'...he was a talking horse on T.V. All the cats are used to me now as well. They come to eat, ask to go outside. In fact, I am so special that Pumpkin decided to bring me a mouse. This is a sign that they like you and they are bringing you a prize. Not as bad as some presents I have received, but we opted to leave it outside. All in all, everything went quite smoothly. It was a pleasure taking care of Ginger. I got to see her walking buddy, Kira today too. I can see Kira and Ginger being great friends. Tomorrow morning is my last visit. I will miss them until next time.

Mach One!

Its my third day with Ginger and the feline gang. We have gotten used to the routine.....up at 7am, out to do our business and then eat. Mid-day walk at 1:30 - 2:00 pm and a snack. Walk and eat at 8:30pm and off to bed by 9pm. Until today, Ginger has had no problems going outside with me. We have had rain and hail today and maybe even a thunder shower at one point. I took my umbrella to my mid-day visit and Ginger was spooked by it. I laid it on the counter in the kitchen, but she was not coming anywhere near it. I finally took it to my car and re-entered hoping that would soothe her ruffled feathers. She eventually came to me but not before checking out the kitchen and that intruding umbrella. She is very cute.
After we established it was just Ginger, Me and the Lead, she led me outside and we began a walk around the grounds. It was raining and she didn't enjoy the droplets at first, but soon began sniffing all the spots she usually does her business. After a good long while, it appeared she was ready to rejoin the felines in the house. I turned around and all of a sudden, she performed what I have deemed as 'Mach One'! This is when an animal, dog or cat, decides out of no where to get a burst of energy and run like hell! I had Ginger on the 9 ft. lead so she had a lot of room to run. She began running in circles so fast I couldn't keep up and soon was literally dragging me around the property. Her mommy has a technique with Binaca, but I think you have to get NEAR her to use it! I finally manage to wrangle her towards the house and just as quickly as she had that burst of energy, she became calm and looked at me like 'Whaaat?'. Seriously, I looked around for the hidden camera because it had to be hysterical to anyone that watched!
We went back into the house and I gave her treats. When I left, she was in the window looking out and I could hear her let out a little whimper as if to say...."Don't go...I really LIKE dragging you around"......The cats? .... They could care less!

Ginger and the Gang!

Meet Ginger....my newest companion! She is a retriever with personality! She's lean and wirey and has a very sweet personality. Ginger is buddies with Kira. You can see Kira by looking back at my older posts. Like Kira, she loves to walk and play and jump on you if she catches you off guard. I have learned over the years of taking care of dogs, its like having freckles...some do and some don't. Same with dogs who like to greet you by jumping on you. Most can be trained...but for some, it is just their personality. Ginger and I have bonded and she actually watches out the window when I leave. But, yesterday was our first day and we needed to learn each other's boundaries. We went for a walk on her beautiful woodsy street and by the end of our walk, she was excited and wanted to play. She lunged at me and I put my arm up as she was jumping. Unfortunately, and not because she did anything wrong, it caught my arm and caused two open gashes. I woke up this morning with an arm and hand swollen to about twice its size. Poor little Ginger....all she wanted to do was play and it was not her fault that I got my arm in the way!So, I took a little trip to Urgent Care. They fixed me up, gave me some antibiotics and I was back in business. We probably won't be able to walk for a day or two, but we do enjoy going out onto the property behind her house. In fact, I truly think Ginger prefers this as she is much calmer in those surroundings. All in all, I think we have bonded and Ginger already knows the drill. She hears me opening the door and comes to greet me wagging her little tail. She is adorable.Ginger lives with four cats as well. Three of them are very friendly, but the fourth is no where to be seen. At least - not by me. I've been told that she is very much her mommy's cat and usually stays upstairs. The other three are already used to me coming in and giving food. They have no problem eating and I really have to watch because all of them, including Ginger like to eat each other's food. Everyone is doing great and we are all getting used to each other. That doesn't mean they don't miss their family though.....I'm sure they do.

Patience My Friends......

I haven't posted recently as I have had a break from the business to pursue some travel. But, never fear, the busy days are here. Beginning this weekend, (April 5th), I will begin a busy schedule taking me all the way through September. So, be patient and check often to see the new and old faces that I love to care for!

Snails, Snow and Simplicity!

So, why did I ue a snail as our picture....? Well, Abbie's family is in the snail and slug business. Her house is filled with wonderful, whimsical snails and slugs. I never thought I would say this about little creatures who make me say 'Ewwww', but this family has found a way to redeem the reputation of the snail and slug! LOL.

Abbie and I are hanging out today. We have spent a lot of time together this visit as I have had a pretty open schedule this week. In the animal companion world, schedules are erratic. I can be booked solid for a month and be slow as a snail (ha...like the way I tied that in) for a month.

And, believe it or not, it is sowing again today! So, we have decided to stay in and relax. Abbie has been out in the snow this morning and is looking forward to our walk this afternoon. I may take her for a ride today when I go to my house to pick up a few things. She loves her rides!

Well, that's all for now......check in later to hear more adventures of Abbie and Dee!

No Picture but lots to say.....

Here I am again! I am so lucky to get to spend so much time with Abbie. I really do enjoy my visits with her.
I am without a camera today. I have been traveling and keep forgetting to get it from my bag at home. So, I'll have to be a little more descriptive!
Abbie is her usual sweet self. I have to say.....I think she knows I am coming before I even get here. She always greets me at the front door and welcomes me as if to say "Are we going for a walk now?" She's so cute and full of personality. We went for a short walk the first night (Tues) as I got here at 7pm. We were both shocked yesterday when it started to snow. I told Abbie....(no, really....I speak OUT LOUD to Abbie and I am NOT ashamed to admit it)....the snow was coming at a wierd time of year and probably won't stick. Wrong! We had six inches of snow when we woke up. There was a little less in other parts of our town, but Abbie lives on a little higher elevation and they tend to get the most. The snow didn't stop Abbie....I was so disappointed when I realized I didn't have my camera (that I usually have ALWAYS) because Abbie darted out the door and made a snow dog angel in the snow. She was so funny rolling around on her back in the snow. No one should ever call her a senior dog because she truly doesn't think so!
We didn't walk this morning as it was a little too cold, but caught a quick walk in the afternoon.
Now she is crashed out on the floor waiting for her next cookie!!!!

Hip Hip Hoooorraaayy!

That is what Abbie is saying in this picture! She knows her Mommy and Daddy come home tomorrow night.

Abbie didn't get her bath I promised. She has been feeling a little 'punky' the last two days. Nothing serious, but maybe a little viral bug. I left more information for her parents when they come home.

Other than that, she's great! I know she is looking forward to seeing 'the family'. As good as 'Auntie Dee' is.......You just can't replace Family!

I'll be back with Abbie at the end of March! See you then!

Isn't she Regal!

Another day in paradise. Abbie is her usual good-natured self. The weather has been good to us and she is enjoying Long walks and naps in the sun.

This picture was taken just a few minutes ago. She will sit anywhere you tell her too. Of course, she knows me all too well. Every time she sits, she gets a treat! No wonder she sits all the time. LOL.

The second photo (to the right) was taken in her favorite part of the property. It looks like she has a 'Cher' hairdo with that bush in the back!

No matter what, she always gives me joy and it is always a pleasure taking care of her.

Rainbow and Abbie

It doesn't surprise me that a Rainbow would appear directly over Abbie's house...she is one of the brightest Rainbows around!

We have had some pretty awesome weather the last few days. From sunshining to thunder and lightening! Saturday, the skies were still dark, but managed to clear long enough for this rainbow to shine through. Abbie and I went outside to snap some photos.

Of course, she wasn't as impressed with the Rainbow on Saturday as she was with her Bone I brought her today. She has now spent a total of 3 hours chewing it. She thought she might want to hide it, so I let her outside. Only to find her later, still laying on the grass and grinding away at that bone!

She is now in the house and when I asked if I could take her picture, she looked up at me with the darn thing hanging out of her mouth!

Everything is going smoothly as usual. Abbie is getting a walk a day and if the weather permits, two!

Katie and Katja, her next-door neighbors came to visit today and she enjoyed that.

We are off to watch the boob tube! More from Abbie later!

Leap Day!

Isn't she cute. She is celebrating Leap Day today and has been playing with the frogs! Little does she know, she will be getting a bath soon. Auntie Dee is going to do it herself! Shhhh, don't tell Mama, it is a surprise!

We are off to play. I will write more later. But, everything is going smoothly as usual. (As long as I keep my hands off the alarm :-)

Dumb and Dumber

I am at Abbie's again. She is a great dog! But, I have to take both the 'dumb AND dumber' in this sit. Abbie is the smart one!
I set off my client's alarm today. Abbie lives in a very nice home, with an excellent alarm system. I have used MANY alarm systems, so I haven't quite figured out what my problem is! But, for the second time, I set it off again. I don't get it! Well, the sirens go off, the strobe light flashes and the phone immediately starts ringing. The alarm company now calls me the 'dumb pet-sitter'....I am sure of it!
We got through it, but not before I had to call Abbie's uncle and subsequently spoke with Abbie's mama and daddy before it was all done. Jeesshhhh....I really need to pay attention better.
Abbie and I have been together just 24 hours. She was SO excited to see me yesterday. I immediately took her for a long walk. We visited with Katie and Katja today and since it was a nice day, Abbie spent a long time outside. Friday we will hang out all day and go for a long walk again. Stay tuned for pictures......she saw my camera coming and went right into a pose! Who says dogs are camera shy? I'm sure she can't wait until I put her in those bunny ears. If dogs could talk.......

PEEPERS AND PIFFLES

The Adventures of a Pesky Pug and a Krazy Kitten!

Meet my Fur Children. Since I am not 'sitting' at the moment, I thought I would take the time to introduce my own fur children.

Peepers is a 10-year old Pug. Her mother was found by one of my co-workers while she was carrying her babies. When Peepers was born, she was the runt. My co-worker had no idea I was looking for a Pug at the time and I just happened to overhear a conversation. When I inquired, I was amazed that she had just what I was looking for. My first Pug! I worked swing shift for Southwestern Bell at the time. My shift was over at midnight. My co-worker brought her to me and she weighed just 2 lbs. She poked her head out from under the coat of my co-worker and all I could see were EYES! I said 'Jeepers, Creepers....where'd you get those peepers'.....hence, the name 'Peepers'. Her papered name is 'Midnight Peepers'. She is aged now and has degenerative spine disease. She is not in any pain, however, she has little use of her back legs. Don't feel sorry for her though as she is determined like her mommy! She will drag her butt to wherever she wants to be. Nothing is stopping her. I adore her!

Then there's Piffles. I had to have my Fawn Pug, Otis, put down in June. He had Cancer and was in pain. I didn't want to let him go, however, I have always said 'Quality over Quantity'. I couldn't bear to see him suffer. Peepers became very lonely as she and Otis were inseparable and only one year apart. I decided to rescue a kitten so that Peepers would have companionship. I adopted her from the King County Animal Shelter. She is a Brown Tabby and has a thick long coat of fur. The picture above was taken right after adoption. She has grown significantly since then. Peepers and she hated each other for the first month or so. She would hiss at Peepers and Peepers would bark at her. This didn't last long and now, 6 months later, they are the best of friends. Piffles is precocious! She loves to come up behind Peepers and bite her back legs. I think she knows that is her weak spot and knows she can get away with it. Poor Peepers trys to get away from her and just drags her butt around. Its very comical to watch! But, I couldn't have asked for a better cat. Piffles is funny, warm and loving, feisty and pretty well-behaved.

So there you have it. The Playful Paw Household! Stay tuned for more Dog Sitting adventures in February!

Happy New Year!

2008 has arrived! Abbie and I enjoyed a quiet evening with Scrabble, Scatagories and Friends. Although Abbie didn't get anything stronger than water, I enjoyed a very nice Champagne Punch! I'm sure Abbie's Mommy and Daddy would enjoy this recipe, so it will be waiting for them.

I noticed Abbie was a little reserved last night. She still doesn't seem to be quite herself this morning. I am attributing this to the many fireworks at midnight! However, she is okay and just needs a little extra love and attention.

Our time together is coming to a close and I will be sad to leave her. She, however, is very ready for her Mommy and Daddy to come home.

This New Year's Day is very windy. We have lost power for a short time and Abbie isn't really willing to go out in it. I noticed some tree branches down and I will have to go out later and cover eveything that the wind blew around the back yard. I will not leave Abbie today so she has nothing to be worried about!

Bringing in the New Year

Abbie and I are ready for the new year....as you can see, she has no problem relaxing! We have spent a lot of time together this time as I am not working at the little consignment shop I used to work at. I want to dedicate all my time to my business and the store was getting in the way of that.

Abbie will probably be sick of me by the time I leave. Although I know she misses her mommy and daddy, she is quite relaxed and well-adjusted.

We will bring in the new year with two of Auntie Dee's friends. Abbie will get lots of attention and hopefully there will not be many fireworks at midnight to scare her.

This picture was taken before her grooming appointment. She will have her spa day on January 2nd so that she will be perfectly groomed when her mommy and daddy come home!

Playing in the Snow!

Abbie and I have been playing in the snow this morning. I get to spend a lot of time with her this visit and we have been enjoying the snow, the rain AND the wind! She loves it.....I am freezing!

This was one of her many trips outdoors. She thought she saw a rabbit and was frozen by the bushes for a while. I called out her name and she turned as if to say 'WHAT'! I apologized for breaking her focus!

Just 6 more nights together. One of the many reasons I went into this business was to alleviate Separation Anxiety in animals. I didn't realize, I am the one with Separation Anxiety when I have to leave! LOL.

White Christmas

Wow.....we had a White Christmas.

It began snowing at noon and continued for hours. It was really nice.

Abbie opened her stocking this morning. She went crazy for her Carob cookies. It wasn't until after she got a cookie that she gained any interest in her new chew toys. We played for a while...went for a walk in the freezing wind (before the snow) and when I left for a couple of hours, I gave her a new bone! I was surprised to find she had not chewed it while I was gone. When I returned, she had it in her mouth, and waited by the door. I let her out into the snow-filled back yard and she immediately hid her new bone.

I don't have a clue where it is!

Auntie Dee wanted to bring her a small piece of turkey, but knowing she has a little bit of a sensitive stomach, I refrained and gave her another Carob cookie. I left at 10:00, returned at 1:00 to

let her pee and then returned for good at 3:30.

She is a happy camper as you can see.

We are looking forward to Auntie Dee not having to do

anything tomorrow except an early appt.

That means more Abbie time------YiPEEEE!

Christmas Eve

Abbie is ready for Santa - as you can see. She can't wait to get her teeth on that stocking! Auntie Dee brought her something special too. Everything is peaceful and quiet as it should be on Christmas Eve. Abbie misses her Mommy and Daddy, but like her mommy said......she is in good hands.

We are getting up tomorrow morning and going for a long walk! I'll have to leave her for a while during the day, but I will make it up to her in the early part of the afternoon. She may get two walks tomorrow. She is enjoying her treat times, her outside time and rabbit chasing time.

She wanted to wish all her family a very Merry Christmas! Hope you are having fun!

Not enough toys!

Did I mention that Abbie was deprived. Seriously, she may not have enough toys! LOL. She is anything BUT deprived. This is just a few of her toys. She loves being surrounded by them and, as you can see, she has made a bed of them for herself!

Abbie is extremely smart. She knows how to speak, shake, roll over, sit, stay, and show you exactly where her Cookie jar is! In fact, she has ME trained. She will give me her little growl - letting me know that she wants something. I will say 'What is it Abbie'. She growls and starts walking towards the room that holds her Cookies. I'll say 'Show me what you want'. She immediately heads to the Cookie Jar. I really have to restrain and tell her 'No No....not any more' or she will weigh 200 pounds when her mommy and daddy come home.

We are now on day 4 together. We have been walking every day in-between the weather conditions. I had to leave her today to finish up some last minute Christmas shopping. She was very glad to see me when I returned. When I let her out, I walked with her and she spotted a rabbit on her property. Abbie might be ten years old, but she is still very spry! She went after that rabbit like she was a puppy! Of course the rabbit went outside her invisible fence perimeter and Abbie sat, turned to look at me as if to say....'Well, don't just sit there....go get that rabbit for me!'. She is so cute! Stay tuned for more adventures of Abbie!

Meet the Neighbors!

Katie and Katja! Two of the funniest, sweetest and most energetic Mini-Schnauzers you ever want to know. Katie and Katja live right next door to Abbie (where I am sitting now). These two have very nice parents as well. They are as close to being their children as it gets. Their mommy and daddy know every detail of their personality and love them as if they ARE their children! I had the pleasure of sitting them in October, while their mommy and daddy traveled to Italy! I was very jealous of all the REAL wine they got to drink, but had a blast taking care of Katie and Katja.
Katie is the talker. She loves to let you know she is there and will bark to her heart's content until you make sure she is noticed! Katja is more mellow. She will look at you with her big brown eyes as if to say 'Pet Me' - but when you do, she squeals as if you are hurting her. I have decided that her 'squeal' is pure pleasure and I just have to be persistent and pet her anyway.
Katie HATES to dress up. If you put anything on her back, she will lay down like a rug and not move. Katja will pretty much let you do anything within reason! So, it must have taken a whole lot of cookies for her mommy to be able to dress her up for Christmas. Oh yes.....They both LOVE treats!

If Dogs Could Talk!

It's Abbie and Me - And Christmas Makes Three!

Meet Abbie, a 10-year-old Golden Retriever. She is the sweetest fur child I have ever met! I have the privilege of spending the Christmas Holiday through New Year's with her. She lives in a very nice home with lots of land that she can roam. The problem is that I have spoiled her and she almost refuses to go out unless I go with her. But, that's what I get paid for. (I really know she is working me though). Abbie used to hunt with her Daddy. She is loved by both her parents and they take very good care of her!

When I arrived yesterday, Abbie was a ball of energy. She went to the door and barked to go outside. As I opened the door, she turned around and looked at me as if to say "Aren't you going with me?"....just like in the picture above!

Today, the weather has been crazy! Both pictures were taken today and as you can see there is rain, ice, hail and snow on the ground! Abbie is not very willing to go out in the hail....can't say as I blame her as neither am I.

Abbie keeps sniffing out the Christmas stocking her Mommy left her. She KNOWS there are bones in there and new chew toys! I let her sniff it in the picture and quickly put it up as I promised not to give it to her until Christmas.

Stay tuned for more adventures of Abbie the Wonder Dog. I have 16 days with sweet Abbie!

Kira - The Huntress!

Meet Kira - A black lab mix. She was rescued by caring and compassionate parents who gave her a loving home. I have been taking care of Kira since she came to her new home. She was energetic to say the least! She was a ball of energy and had a few issues that needed to be addressed. She had Kennel Cough and was rather scrawny, but all in all in pretty good health. Her mommy could see she needed some training and began working with her. Kira was a quick study ! With every visit I could see that she was improving. She is approximately a year and a half (?) now and she has really grown into her adult body. She is very black - almost blue - and has a very svelt figure.
Kira lives on a tree-filled, woodsy piece of land. There are a lot of critters in her area. Kira thinks she is a hunting dog as she loves to chase rabbits, squirrels or anything else that crosses her path. Her mommy said she has a hard time walking her this time of year as she thinks all the life-size deer decorations are real! She is also fascinated by the miniature horses across the street. She will pull me to them and just sit and stare. She is mesmerized by them.

Kira has an invisible fence to allow her a lot of running room. I arrived one day to find a Hawk on the ground within her perimeter. I worried that Kira might go after the Hawk and get hurt. When I drove up the drive, the Hawk flew off. I looked over to the area where the Hawk had been and found it had just killed a jack rabbit. If I had arrived just five minutes earlier, the rabbit may have been saved. Feeling bad, I moved the rabbit out of the perimeter of Kira's invisible fence to dissuade the Hawk from returning to his prey. I understand that all wildlife needs nutrition, but my first concern is the animal I'm taking care of.
Kira is a joy to see. She is playful, comical and smart! However, she is completely a bed hog! I guess we can't all be perfect....but, she is close to it!

Meet the Gang

What better time to remember old friends. Let me introduce my four faves! Ernie, Luna, Sugar and Marvy. They live on a big, beautiful piece of land and have all the running space anyone could ask for. They are LOVED beyond words. Their mommy built a $10,000. add-on to the house which is now known as the "Pooch Palace". These four fur children roam the property by day, saying hello to their neighbor Mr. Pig. There are (or used to be) Llamas on the property in front of them and they are just generally surrounded by nature. Its always a treat to see these four beauties! I love them all.

Stay Tuned!

With Christmas coming up, Pet Sitting has been a little slow. However, it will be picking up in a week or so. I will spending the holidays with two of my favorite Pups. Abbie, a ten-year old Golden, and Kira, a 1.5 year-old Black Lab mix! Although Kira is just a day visit now and then, I always look forward to seeing her. I will be posting her 'Christmas' picture real soon. The same with Abbie...she is a love bug. I will actually be staying overnight with Abbie while her mommy and daddy are enjoying the sun shine in the Desert! Abbie will be seen on this blog site after the 19th of December. So, stay tuned for new and exciting news from the Animal Sanctuary otherwise knowsn as Washington!!!

Sometimes it just isn't your day.........

Dog: German, Long Haired Pointer

Got a call yesterday that a family needed to leave town unexpectedly due to a death in the family. They really didn't want to kennel their 'Mocha' and wondered how this whole pet-sitting thing worked. I explained that I generally have a couple of visits for those who have never had people in their home (first rule of a pet-sitter...never go in blind-meaning at LEAST two visits). They weren't completely comfortable with an overnight sit, but wanted periodic visits throughout the day. I told him I completely understood and asked when they were leaving. He said 'tomorrow' (which was today).

I went last night to meet the little family. Brand new home, Maple Valley, two very well-behaved little boys and a very friendly couple. When I arrived, Mocha came slowly around the corner and looked at me and growled. I got down on her level (2nd rule in pet sitting) and spoke to her in a monotone, yet friendly voice. She continued to growl for another five minutes and then quit. She allowed me to pet her, placed her head on my leg and acted as if we were old friends by the time I left.

I arrived this afternoon around noon to allow her to pee. I called her name from outside the door ( entering on the bottom level of the home)and she came barking. I stepped in and took her water bowl (this was her area) and began to fill it, talking to her like nothing was different than any other day and she continued to growl and bark. But.....in a different way than last night. I could tell she was protecting her territory. I walked slowly and deliberately through the house and up the stairs talking to her the whole time. She kept her distance and was very nervous about me being in the home. I tried to ignore her and read the notes left for me and left a note as if nothing were wrong for the owners. I sat on the couch and turned on the T.V. She still would have no part of me and continued to growl. I went back downstairs to get her lead and she stayed at the top and would not come down. I knew she HAD to go outside.....I walked up the stairs and attempted to place the lead on her collar and she attacked me. She managed to clip my hand with her teeth, but I was half way expecting this so I moved immediately away from her. I never let her have me pinned in and purposely placed myself at the top of the stairs so that I would have a way out. I kept speaking to her and turned slowly to retreat down the stairs....she followed, growling and barking the whole way. I continued the same pace until I met the downstairs entrance. Filled her bowl completely full of water and food and left!!!!

I called her owner but he was on a flight to Boston. I felt bad and decided to give this another attempt two hours later. This time I got the key in the door and she was right on the other side. I opened the door and she was very serious this time! I said 'Okay, Mocha...its all yours!" and left!

The owner called me back. I asked if there was someone that Mocha trusted and knew in the area. He said he had a buddy who knows Mocha. His buddy and I will meet later so that he can help Mocha out.

Mocha did nothing wrong. She was protecting her territory...we needed more time to bond!

Ben, Ursa, Mia, Stanley and Ricky

Well, this day began interesting, to say the least. Six A.M., I'm in my socks and I take Ben out to the garage to feed him. The door closes and it is locked. No key to my truck, no key to the house, no cell phone...just me and Ben in the garage and the rest of the animals waiting to eat. I won't lie....I freaked in the beginning. Then I began ravaging the garage because I remember my client telling me the door does this and he would hide a key. Of course, WHERE was another question. It was pitch black outside and the nearest neighbor is not that 'near'...this house sits on a lot of land. Besides, they would have thought I was a lunatic in my socks, my hair desheveled and banging on their door to let me in a house in which I don't live. I almost gave up and thought..I'll just sit here and crack open all this wine. Perhaps I was a burglar in a past life because I remembered that this type of door lock can be opened with a credit card. No credit card. But there was this long, flat knife in the garage. After banging on the door trying to break in (sorry about the dents)...I thought I had nothing to lose and tried the knife and a hammer. Can you believe it....it popped right open. YEAHHHHHH. I was never so glad to see the inside of somebody else's house in all my life. You can bet your ass I will NEVER leave this house again without my keys.
The pups and cats are all well. They don't seem to be bothered that a crazy lady is sitting them...so, I guess I have done my job. This is our last night together. But, I will be back in April.

Idgie, Sutton, Mocha and Latte

Day two with the four-legged children in Maple Valley. I freed Idgie as she was being crated up to five hours a day. Not believing in crates (although I know they are necessary at times), I rigged up a gate on the stairs so she could not ransack her mother's Italian shoes! Sutton is 10 yrs old and way over the chewing stage, but Idgie is still young and she gets bored. Mocha and Latte did not want to make an appearance today, however, I managed to get them out with bribery! Treats always do the trick! These fur children are pretty spoiled as they have their mommy home all day (work from home) so I just couldn't see keeping her crated all day! I visit them twice a day and to tell you the truth...I would visit more if I weren't sick with Strep Throat! Yeah...well, animals can't catch it, and they need me! Good Night Idgie, Sutton, Mocha and Latte. See you in the morning!

The North Bend Crew!!!

My job is the best!!! I stay in beautiful homes and take care of loving animals! Meet Ursa the black Lab, Ben the Golden Retriever and the three cats - Mia, Spencer and Ricky!!! (two cats are camera shy). They live on a lot of property, in a beautiful house that is meant to have all these loving animals in it! While most animals are apprehensive at first.....these animals welcomed me into their home the first time they saw me. I always say that animals are only as good as their owner. And though I've only met their human 'daddy', I can tell that their parents are just as loving as they are!

As you can see, we are just kicking back and enjoying each other. Of course, this isn't the picture of them when I let them out in the yard and they play...they can be pretty rambunctious! Yeah...I know....Its a tough job....but, somebody has got to do it!!!

After Thanksgiving and Back to the PAWS!

For those of you who don't know me, I am a full-time Animal Companion Service. What better job than to spend it with our Four-legged Fur Children. That's what they are! At least for those that hire me and.....myself, of course.

Meet Sutton and Idgie! They are adorable and live in Maple Valley, Washington. Their Two-legged mama is away on business, so I get to visit them twice a day! They get lots of treats and attention as well as some outside time! They are very well-behaved and love the attention I give them. Of course, they miss their mama....but, I am a good substitute! They have two adopted feline sisters, Mocha and Latte! They stay out of the way as they are very aloof as cats tend to be.