Tag Archives: dogsitting

Happy Ending for Lab Animals

29 Tuesday Oct 2013

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pizap.com13830707453031I like to live in ignorance.  It makes my life much easier.  I don’t want to know how the chicken I’m eating is raised, killed, or prepared.  In general I don’t want to see the face of anything I’m planning to eat.  If I had to there is no doubt I’d be a vegetarian.  I also don’t like to know what is tested on animals, what kind of animals, and the side effects.  Personally I think testing of certain drugs on animals can be life saving (for us silly humans) and I agree animal testing is an important step in some research.  Just as long as I don’t have to see it.  Testing things like eyeliner on animals?  That’s ridiculous.  I don’t want to purchase any make up that someone in the lab thought, “Hey … this may be toxic.  Before we let women slap it on their face let’s see if Fido reacts to it.”  All that being said animals that are used for experiments, even those I give my reluctant stamp of approval on, don’t have a good life.  In fact I dare say their lives suck monkey butt.

Last Friday the dogs (Riggins, Asscher, Miles & Lulu) and I headed out to go to the Laurel Canyon Dog Park.  We were almost there before I remembered it was closed on Friday mornings.  I grabbed my phone and clicked on my “DogGoes” app to see if there were any parks close.  There was one in North Hollywood, not to far away, that we had never tried before.  I decided to give the Whitnall Dog Park a shot.  When we got there the first thing I noticed was that the park was a muddy mess.  I knew that would make all the dogs happy and there would have to be baths all around when we got home.  Asscher (golden retriever) was in heaven.  It took her no time at all to get muddy.  Mud is her middle name!

pizap.com13830706460351Since it was so moist it was kind of crappy.  They seemed to be working on cleaning out the mud and putting in some sort of drainage.  If it wasn’t for the mud the park would be great.  It’s huge and there is small park just as big (actually it’s 1/2 the size but still way more space than is usually given to the wee ones).  The two parks don’t share a fence like most dog areas, so if you go to the small park just drive a bit further down the street to find it.  There is a lot of grass (swamp land) so I can see how, once dried out, it would be fabulous.  Best of all the people and dogs were nice.

I met this one woman who introduced me to her 3 dogs.  One of her dogs was an older beagle.  She told me his story.  (I don’t remember his name.  Let’s call him Bob.)  Bob had been a lab animal for years.  She adopted him about 2 years earlier from the Beagle Freedom Project.  I said he was a lucky dog and her response was that she was the lucky one.  She said the little dog had taught her so much about trust and love.  When Bob came to her he was very skittish, wouldn’t take treats out of her hand, and would be very hesitant to walk on grass.  He would only sleep on hard surfaces, probably similar to the feeling he had in his lab cage.  She had him sleep on the bottom of a crate and then slowly added towels one by one and then a pillow so that he would be more comfortable.  His dog siblings taught him how to be a dog since he hadn’t had that experience before.  Now he is in a loving home and gets to go to the dog park everyday!

According to the Beagle Freedom Project 96% of animals used in laboratory research are beagles.

“Beagles are the most popular breed for lab use because of their friendly, docile, trusting, forgiving, people-pleasing personalities. The research industry says they adapt well to living in a cage, and are inexpensive to feed. Research beagles are usually obtained directly from commercial breeders who specifically breed dogs to sell to scientific institutions.” – Beaglefreedomproject.org

Although most of their rescues are beagles they do help all animals that they can that are released by the labs, and even recently took in a couple of pigs!  All their rescues are done legally, which I like.  They aren’t suggesting violence or destruction of these labs but instead are there to work with them to help the animals on to the next phase of their lives.  The good phase!  This wonderful organization is always looking for people to adopt and/or foster.  They also have events to help raise money and will be happy to receive any tax deductible donation.  Just visit their site and friend them on Facebook page for more info.

(Pictures are of Riggins, Miles, Asscher & Lulu enjoying the dirty muddy park!)

 

The Great Escape

25 Friday Oct 2013

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I apologize for being MIA this week.  I’ve been recouping from the MOST STRESSFUL WEEKEND OF ALL TIME.  Let me tell you all about it …

Miles

Miles

This past weekend I had 3 dogs plus Riggins.  Chief an adorable and loving chocolate lab, Lulu a one year old energetic ball of crazy, and Miles the two-year old lab/golden mix aka “the runner.”  Friday night was like a battle ground.  Riggins and I were curled up in the bed in combat “hit the deck” positions trying to snooze while Miles and Lulu ran around wrestling each other ALL NIGHT LONG.  Saturday morning Chief showed up and we meet Giovanna, her husband and poodle Morgan at Runyon Canyon.  Everyone was pretty pooped out by the time we got home.  I had just enough time to shower and get dressed up for a fabulous music/comedy festival with my friend Dee Dee and her husband Jason.  The afternoon/evening was spent drinking Honey Badger shots (delicious) and listening to the genius of the friends of Tenacious D.  I tell you all this back story so you can understand that by this point of my day I was too pooped to pop!  Upon coming home I opened the back door and like a bullet from a cannon Miles was gone.  When I say gone I mean GONE.  Out the door, down the street, out of sight … GONE.

Dee Dee and I ran down the street like crazy people and she spotted him on a side street.  I came frantically running to get him (mistake I know) and he zoomed right past me and, once again, out of sight.  We did not see that little dude again for about 19 hours.

I ran.  I ran and ran and ran.  AND RAN.  Up and down the side streets of my neighborhood calling Miles name and suggesting we go get some food, dinner, snacks, treats, and any other food related word I could think of to make him pop his little head out again.  Dee Dee jumped in her car and started cruising the hood.  At one point she passed me and I yelled, “call Giovanna.”  Minutes later Giovanna and her husband Jack joined the search.  I was seconds … SECONDS … from loosing my shit.  I actually think I spent the next 24 hours in a state of shock.  How could this happen?????  How??????  I was mortified, terrified, and all other ifieds you can think of.

At one point I went back to my car and started cruising too.  At this time I knew I had to move forward with turning myself into the bad doggie watcher police.  I’m not one to shy away from taking blame and fessing up and it was time to do just that.  I called the DogVacay people who put me in touch with Natalie the Sane (I call her that because whenever I read a message from her or she talked to me she was the voice of sanity and reason).  Natalie’s title is “Trust and Safety Specialists.”  Can you imagine how stressful that job must be?  I have not been shy in saying I love DogVacay and would be happy to work for them beyond just being a host, but there is NOT ENOUGH MONEY ON THIS PLANET to do Natalie’s job.  I sent pictures of Miles to her for a flyer and brought Miles bed, blanket, and stuffed rabbit toy outside per her instructions.  I then covered the entire area with chicken.  Something Chief was happy of every time he walked by.  That damn bunny friggin’ mocked me for 24 hours.  Every single time I came home to grab more flyers or go to the restroom or check on the other dogs I would plead with the universe to have Miles sitting there cuddling with his bunny.  Nope.  Never happened.  That bunny just sat there perched on his fluffy dog bed staring at me.

Natalie the Sane emailed me over a “Lost Dog” flyer which I started printing.  I printed 40 at a time and anytime I came home clicked on “print” and picked up the ones that were ready.  I estimate that my friends and I hung about 160 signs and handed out about 20.  Aaaaaahhhh!  It was all so unnerving.

I had to get a hold of Miles mom.  Unfortunately she was out of the US and did not have cell coverage.  This meant not only could I not call her anyone that got a hold of Miles and read his doggie tags couldn’t call her!  Aaaaaaaaahhhhhhh!!!!!  I sent her a message via Viber (app that allows you to text and send pics to folks all over the world at no cost) and held my breath.  I couldn’t even imagine what I would have done if I had received that message.  Probably forced the poor soul with me to cash out on all his assets so we could afford to fly back to LA STAT!

Eventually my poor friends had to go home and to bed.  Jason was starting a new job on Monday and needed to prepare.  Giovanna was running 20 miles at 5 am the next day to get ready for her upcoming marathon.  Jack was falling asleep at the wheel.  That left me and the dogs to continue the search party.  I swapped out Lulu and Chief and walked the streets.  Around 3 AM Chief and I saw cops trying to settle down an agitated hooker eating her ice cream cone across from the local McDonalds.  I saw two cars in full “bust” mode with driver on the sidewalk and cops going through their vehicles.  Everything was pretty shut down about that time except for Jack in the Box.  I have a real problem with their new stoner commercials but they sure do know their customer base!

Around 3:30 AM I emailed Natalie and Miles Mom to tell them I had to go lie down.  I don’t know why I even tried.  I constantly thought I heard something in the backyard and just wanted it to be Miles so bad.  I may have slept for about 1/2 hour.   Giovanna texted me about 4:30 and asked how I was and my answer was “terrible.”  She cancelled her run and came back over to search with me.

The Search Party (the human participants). Jack, Giovanna, Martha & Dee Dee

The Search Party (the human participants). Jack, Giovanna, Martha & Dee Dee

And that is what we did … searched.  We walked up and down and up and down for miles then we got in the car and drove for miles.  Then we walked some more.  Her husband came to help.  My friend Dee Dee came back (she does not live close) and helped.  My friend, Martha, came over straight from the Getty where she had taken her art students earlier that day.  Even Asscher’s dad got in the car and drove around looking while Asschers mom kept checking the Pasadena Humane Society website for dogs that were turned in.  There was even another friend on her way to take up the night shift with me.  I can’t explain how lucky I am/was to have the support of so many great people.  I joke a lot that I hate people and love dogs.  These folks are definitely the exception to that rule!  I LOVE THEM!  They stepped up and every single one forfeited their time, energy and something important they had to do just so they could be there for me.

Dee Dee was the worker bee.  She would get it done come hell or high water.  Signs hung, signs walked into businesses, anything I asked she was on it in a heartbeat.  Her presence also stopped me from being arrested.  At one point we were in the car together and we pulled up beside a cop car.  She handed him a flyer and asked him to keep his eyes open.  The policeman was a douche.  He didn’t want to help at all and his only response (beyond telling us to go to the Pasadena Humane Society — yah yah genius we got that) was that the picture on the flyer was distorted.  I wanted to tell him if he wanted to see distortion I could ball up the flyer and shove it up his ass.  Luckily Dee Dee was there, more in control than me, and instead of going off in handcuffs we just drove away.  That guy is an asshat.  He was probably unhappy he didn’t have the night, ice cream hooker eating shift.

Jack was the lieutenant grinding away behind the wheel for miles further than I dared even think to drive.

Giovanna was my go to gal.  Giovanna let’s put signs in front of the church because people will be going there in a few hours.  Giovanna let’s put signs in front of McDonald’s because people will be going there in a few hours.  Giovanna let’s put signs by the parks because people will be going there in a few hours.  Giovanna let’s put 5 more signs on that pole that already has 3 just to be safe.  Whatever I said her answer was, “LET’S DO IT.”  She never once told me I was insane.  Which I, obviously, was.

Martha was my voice of reason and stabilizer.   Martha is a very good friend of mine and lives in Philadelphia.  She just happened to be here for this huge crisis and I am so thankful she was.  I had a one track mind … FIND MILES … FIND MILES … FIND MILES.  Everyone tried to stop me to take care of myself and all I could think was FIND MILES.  I refused to come home when they asked me to and refused to think clearly when they asked me to until Martha showed up.  Martha’s voice could cut through my crazy.  Not totally.  But a little bit!  Enough to stabilize me.

At one point the sun was just starting to go down Giovanna, Dee Dee, and I were driving around putting up signs.  At that point I was told that I wasn’t allowed to drive and we were all getting beyond pooped.  It was the first time we were all together in one car and then Dee Dee said, “there he …” AND WE ALL SAW HIM.  Lightening.  Running like a crazy dog.  Giovanna and I jumped out of the car and tried to calmly call him until we couldn’t see him anymore (which took about 5 seconds) and then he was gone again.

It was on now!!!  There was NO WAY I was stopping this search.  We had been amazed that in the HOURS of searching we constantly crossed over each other but none of us had even seen the dog.  Now we had seen him.  We just needed him to stop running so we could coax him home.

Sweet as sugar and as fast as a bullet!

Sweet as sugar and as fast as a bullet!

During this search Miles mom’s friend had been looking as well.  I alerted everyone, Natalie, Miles Mom, Asscher’s Mom, etc that we had seen him.  We all then focused on that one area.  I walked around in circles dropping piles of food in the hopes of keeping him close.  I’m sure the neighborhood skunks enjoyed that later in the night.  Circles walked and walked and walked by all of us.  Then I got a text from Miles friend “I found him.”  At the time Dee Dee and I was heading back to my car to charge up my phone and had just waved to Martha so we were all there.  I started to type back but then looked up and THERE HE WAS … ON LEASH!!!!!!!!!  I almost fell to my knees.  I’d say I was happy but I think I was just deep in shock.  The friends dog, Lola had found Miles.  They are friends and Miles was happy to come talk to her!  I scooped him up, controlled myself from kissing the poor friend and her dog, and ran him to the nearest emergency vet.

20+ hour of running had taken their toll on Miles paws.  All four were blistered and in bad shape.  The vet was wonderful and held him for a few hours to fix him up.  I picked him up at 1:30 AM Sunday night/Monday morning and brought him home.  His front paws were wrapped for a day and then I took the bandages off to heal.  He is still walking a little funny but all in all is back to normal.  He is his happy, loving, wiggle butt self again.

Miles isn’t allowed on the bed or sofa.  I made him sleep by me for the rest of the night on Sunday, cuddle on the sofa during the day Monday and nap on the bed with me.  I wasn’t allowing that little guy out of my sight!  I totally ignored the no bed/sofa rule!

I really can’t explain how horrible that entire event was.  To have a dog lost is heart wrenching to be in charge of someone else’s dog and have him go missing is unthinkable.  I can’t even imagine if he was a human child that I was watching.  Although I have yet to see a toddler who could outrun me let alone a locomotive like darling Miles can.  I’m so happy he is safe and I love him to pieces.  That being said I’ll be happy to hand him over to his mom tomorrow!  He stressed me out!

A couple of notes on this whole ordeal:

As usual DogVacay is amazing.  I am so happy they are always so helpful and thoughtful when I need them.

Signs work.  I had my doubts but we only knew the general area Miles was in because of the 3 calls we got.  2 of the folks said they saw a black dog running 100 miles an hour down the street with a smile on his face …. .THAT’S MILES!

If Miles would have lived here I have a feeling putting his bed and food outside could have worked.  It is something I would not have thought of.

If this happens to you I hope you have a group of brilliant and supportive friends like I do to help you!

All my guest dogs now have another tag with my name and number on it.

I called Miles vet (old and new), where he was adopted from (their info is on his chip) and Miles mom reported him as missing on a dog site whose web address Miles has on a tag on his collar.  Natalie called every vet/shelter in the area and faxed over our “lost dog” flyer.  Although these things didn’t actually help get Miles home they didn’t hurt.  I actually got calls from Miles vet and adoption agency checking on him.

 

 

 

I Get Knocked Down …

10 Tuesday Sep 2013

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You guys … I’m a clutz.  It’s pretty shocking that I (knock on wood) haven’t caused myself serious injury.  Although I did give myself a concussion that one time.  That was pretty bad.  Other than that none of my bumps and falls have caused me to have to go to the emergency room.  I think I just go “rag doll” when I start to lose my balance and just drop.  That must save me from getting really hurt.  I’m in no way a hero.   I don’t teeter around and eventually stand back up right with a heavy sigh.  Nope.  I falter and DROP.  Sometimes for no reason at all.

image (12)Yesterday while hiking with the dogs I had them both off leash as we crisscrossed over a stream (pretty dried up stream due to the hell like weather we have been having).  It takes everything I’ve got to stay upright jumping from rock to rock.  Hanging on to dog leashes makes it nearly impossible.  Plus it is safer for both the dogs and me to just take care of ourselves.  Because they are off leash I try to be very conscious of the other hikers as some, gasp, are afraid of dogs.  Heading back from our hike to the waterfall I saw a guy coming toward us.  At first he seemed cool and Asscher (golden retriever) bounced right by him.  Then the dude saw Riggins and FROZE.  People are often afraid of Riggins.  It’s understandable.  He is scary black with big teeth.  His face has actually gotten more angular with age so his head almost has a Doberman look to him when his ears are sticking up.  Add the fact that part of one of his ears has been bitten off and you have got a mean looking dog on your hands.  Now you and I know Riggins is a lover not a fighter but if you don’t know that I can see how you would be hesitant.  To make matters worse Riggins is VERY sensitive to others around him so if you are afraid, he is afraid, and that makes him growl, and that makes him scarier!  I grabbed Riggins and was pushing him to my side so I could hold him away from the guy as he passed us.  I was about to say I had him and the guy was fine to pass when I went down mid-sentence.  I had been standing on a rock and just lost my footing.  I fell full butt on the rock I was standing on and then slid down to the ground.  It wasn’t a big rock but big enough for a little slide to make my fall even more dramatic.  The poor hiker had to get over his Riggins fear to run over and help me up.  I thought that was pretty nice of him.  I’ve fallen in my neighborhood with Riggins at my side and everyone just stared at me.

If you are counting, and why wouldn’t you be, that is the second time in less than a week that I’ve fallen down and someone had to come to my rescue.  Sigh.

photo (9)I have a real nice bruise on my butt.  I wanted to show you a picture but honestly it doesn’t look bad enough.  Considering the pain I’m in my entire right cheek should be black and blue.  I did text the pic to a few people to get sympathy, so if you got the butt pic consider yourself a good friend!  I had to tell my Bar Method teacher I bruised my bum before class today so she would understand if I did some modifications to the moves.  Embarrassing!

My left butt cheek is permanently misshapen due to a fall during a hike years ago.  It is oddly pointy.  People say that isn’t true but to those people I suggest they aren’t looking closely enough at my butt.  I was kinda hoping this fall would smush it back into place.  No such luck.  Maybe next time.  And we all know there will be a next time!

(Since I’m not sharing a butt picture I’m posting cutie pictures of Riggins and Asscher over our last two days of adventures.)

Sweet Kona Girl

01 Thursday Aug 2013

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photo (19)Kona has been on vacay with us for almost a week and I realized I have never introduced you to her.  Shame on me!  Kona is her daddy’s little girl and a pit mix.  I’ve taken care of pit/pit mixes before but did a little research on the breed for you this time.

(All the knowledge I’m about to drop on  you comes from a Google search.  You can do a search and read numerous articles on the subject.)  The label “pit bull” actually covers a large range of dog breeds although isn’t a breed itself.  It targets those with a large head and square jaw like the American Pit

Pit actor and sitter! Source

Pit actor and sitter! Source

Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers.  The “Bull”dogs were originally used to control and bait bulls.  Crappy job but I guess someone had to do it.  The practice was banned in 1835, whew.  At that point some genius decided it would be good sport to put these dogs into pits with rats.  This practice was known as ratting and where the “pit” part of the name may have originated.  Side note – Riggins would LOVE to be in a pit with rats or possums

Helen Keller and her pit. Source.

Helen Keller and her pit. Source.

or squirrels or any other critter he could destroy.  As the dog moved into colonized America and Canada he/she where mixed with terrier breeds and used as farm and family dogs.  The Staffie Bull is known as “The Children’s Nursemaid” because of their protective and nurturing nature with children.  The breed, at their heart, is sweet, lovable and loyal.  It’s the assholes like Michael Vick that screwed it up for the poor sweet pits, destroying them physically and mentally by training them as fighting dogs.

Kona is a princess pit!  There is no doubt about that.  When she first came for a meet and greet her mom, dad, and 6 week old human sister came to check out her possible vacation home.  From the beginning Kona proved to be a team player immediately making herself at home with a pack that at the time, included Riggins, Bear, Jax & Dragon.  She happily hung out as Dragon tried to take her down by jumping over and over on her face!  Before the family left Kona’s new sister needed a diaper change.  I offered up my bed as a changing table and suggested Mom close the bedroom door.  She took me up on my offer and Kona sat guarding that door the entire time.  Loyal and protective of the new baby.

Kona is the first dog I’ve taken care of that sat by the door when she was dropped of and cried.  When she finally settled down she was happy to join us at the dog park to get her mind off of things!

image (26)Since she has been with us Kona has continued to be a sweetie.  She could also be described as needy and a scaredy cat!  Her first night I was in bed and one of the dogs heard something at the front door.  Dragon, Dexter, and Riggins took off to let the imaginary intruder know who was boss.  Kona, on the other hand, leapt into my bed on top of me and buried her face under my arm pit.  When I vacuum she shivers with fear in the corner (then pees on the newly vacuumed carpet).

Kona HAS to be with me 24/7.  Not just with me but on me.  Right now she is snoring next to my feet.  If I dared to stand up to get some water she would follow me to the kitchen, turn around and follow me back and plop down at my feet again!  She MUST sleep not just next to me but with some part of her body ON me.  If I have to leave her she cries and cries tugging at my heart-strings.

Kona, like all other pit breed mixes that have stayed with us, is incredibly cuddly and wants nothing but kisses and hugs.  I can’t imagine her biting a bull on the nose … unless the bull was a tiny stuffed toy!

TGIF

19 Friday Jul 2013

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photo (12)Jax, Bear, Dragon, Riggins and I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

18 Thursday Jul 2013

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The Bad & The Ugly –

photo (13)Today I took the Fantastic Four, Riggins, Bear, Jax & Dragon up to the observatory via the Fern Dell trail.  They all did great, and once we took a time out at the top we started back down.  On the way up we had passed a dozen or so dogs and even more humans.  My pack had no issues with anyone.  Some dogs they ignored while others everyone wanted to say hi (aka sniff butts).  There was no growling, no fighting, no lunging, no issues.

On the way down I had gone just a few steps when I saw a women coming up with 3 dogs.  She looked like she had stopped in the shade to rest (she wasn’t in the best of shape).  As we got closer she started to scream “PULL YOUR DOGS BACK.  PULL THEM BACK.  PULL YOUR DOGS BACK!”  Her dogs seemed fine at that moment.  One was crouched down in a “staking” mode but that isn’t uncommon for dogs.  The other two didn’t seem to care one way or the other that their mom had gone crazy.  I ignored her as I walked past keeping my guys as far away as the path allowed.  She kept screaming at me, which triggered one of her dogs to lose his shit and start barking aggressively.  Smallish dog … I didn’t think it was a problem as I figured, even with three dogs, she could keep such a small guy contained on leash.  Finally, after more outbursts from her, I had to point out the obvious:  1.  She was crazy.  2.  If she was so worried about her dogs meeting other animals she shouldn’t take them to a public location.  Well, that did nothing but throw fuel on the crazy fire.  She went, what I would consider, “ape shit.”  Looking back she is lucky I was in no mood for a fight because it would have been so fun to fight with her.  She started following me screaming that I had no right to have 5 dogs that I couldn’t control (Please note my puppers where pretty afraid of the woman shrieking at them so where keeping as far away as possible, not barking, and not causing any problems … which is actually pretty shocking).  It didn’t help that my response to this was that she couldn’t count.  5 dogs?  Was she counting me?  By then I was far enough away to mumble, “bitch” under my breath before moving on.

30 ish seconds later I let Riggins off leash to trot along beside us without being tethered to me.  You know what happened when I let that vicious creature that I couldn’t control free?  Nothing.  He walked all the way down past many more dogs and many more people and didn’t have a single problem … none of us did.

On the other hand I could hear crazy yelling at more people further up on the trail.  I assume she left carnage from her ridiculousness all the way up and down that path.  This “incident” had two things that make me insane and start to feel all stabby.

image (17)First of all, don’t question my ability to care for my dogs.  Don’t you dare.  This happens more often than you would think and usually I get adequately pissed off to cause a scene.  Once a young man was walking down the street to Runyon with Riggins and me scolding me the entire time about Riggins wearing a retriever bell.  I was polite at first and then verbally destroyed him to the point he turned around and went back to his car.  RETREAT!!!  I care for Riggins and my guest dogs with love and extreme passion.  For you to suggest otherwise really chaps my hide!

Secondly, this woman couldn’t admit SHE was in the wrong.  Obviously she had gotten in too far over her head bringing her dogs there (BTW she did yell at me that her aggressive dog was a shelter dog and I needed to have more compassion … yah I really need to work

Walking nicely together.

Walking nicely together.

on showing more compassion to dogs … it’s a huge problem for me) and instead of apologizing and moving on she choose to channel her embarrassment into angry toward an innocent bystander.  Why?  All that does is make more people feel bad.  When I walk aggressive dogs, like Bud, I ONLY walk them alone and when passing a dog that looks like he/she will get close tell the owner that my dog isn’t being very nice today so I am going to keep him away from their dog.  SEE WHAT I DID THERE … MADE IT TOTALLY MY RESPONSIBILITY … BECAUSE IT IS … I BROUGHT THE AGGRESSIVE DOG … MY RESPONSIBILITY TO MAKE SURE IT IS DONE SAFELY.

This happens a lot in life.  How many times have you seen something like this play out in the work place?  Embarrassment or fear causes us to push blame on others instead of accepting it.  It’s so much better to accept, apologize, find a solution, and move on.

The ugly part?  Well that chick was ugly … YOU UGLY!

The Good – 

I have found a new favorite dog park.  The Hermon Dog Park right off the 110 just outside image (19)of downtown LA.  When I walked up to the park gate I wasn’t really impressed.  It is smaller than other dog parks I go to and is all dirt.  There is a sign that says it was named one of the best 10 parks in 2009 (or something like that … don’t quote me on those numbers) and my first thought was, “why?”  It’s pretty much a big ol’ fenced in dirt lot.  Turns out I was wrong.  It is really a very nice park and what makes it that way are the people.

Dog park people are weird.  I’m allowed to say that as I’m one of them.  Each dog park has its own personality and its own “type” of people.  Hermon Dog Park, like the area it sits in, is home to many different types of people.  My experience is that they are like the Silver Lake dog folks but less freaky and more grown up.  That’s a good thing!

I can go to a dog park and not really interact with anyone.  There is usually the “regulars” who form a gang at a central location and you enter at your own risk.  It’s a lot like high school.  Normally I head to a location that is comfortable, stick in my earbuds, and laugh out loud to an Adam Carolla podcast.  At the Hermon park everyone was so nice and welcoming I had to take my earbuds out in order to have conversations … I know … wacky.  I had invaded their park with 4 dogs (dog parks around here only allow each person to bring 3 dogs so I was technically breaking the rules … not something I suggest doing) and they were nothing but sweet and nice to me and the pups.  They get a bright shiny gold star from me!

My previous favorite dog park was the Pasadena Dog Park and it still has a place in my image (16)heart.  I had avoided taking all 4 dogs there simply because it is full of Pasadena Dog Park people … who can sometimes be a little judgy (don’t tell them I said that).  Yesterday I planned to take only my guest dogs to the park but Riggins looked so sad I added him to the outing at the last-minute.  Turns out, that day and hour, I had nothing to worry about and the folks at the Pasadena location were super nice and not judgy at all … shame on me for assuming otherwise.

Jumping to that conclusion was my fault.  I am sorry.  In the future I won’t make assumptions based on sweeping generalizations I make about other visitors of the parks.  Have a good night!  (accept, apologize, find a solution, and move on … see not hard!)

 

DogVacay – Happiness for You and Your Dog

04 Tuesday Jun 2013

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photo (5)If you read my blog you know that I have been working as a dog sitter for the last couple of months.  I love it.  I’m part of the DogVacay host community.  DogVacay is a national dog sitting community with its corporate offices in Santa Monica, CA.  I’ve had such wonderful experiences with the company I wanted to make sure you know about them too.

Good customer service is extremely important to me.  I was trained as a member of the Guest Relations team at Disneyland.  These are the folks that go beyond just the normal gold standard of Disney customer service training but move on to the “when people are really pissed off because of ridiculous crap, how do you help them” training.  Ever since I am just incapable of dealing with and/or understanding companies with bad customer service.  It is just so easy.  Do you want your customers to be happy and come back or not?  That’s the only question.  If you do then empower your employees to be able to help.  To be able to help, no questions asked, and without fear of them doing something wrong and getting in trouble.  Award them for helping.  Award them for thinking out of the box in how they help.  Award them for being your brand ambassador and by doing so your company will flourish.

DogVacay has proven to be amazing at customer service.  When Riggins had the misfortunate incident during a meet and greet they were wonderfully thoughtful to both Riggins and me.  When I needed to place Bud with a new host for the weekend because he wasn’t getting along with another dog I was watching, DogVacay didn’t just help fix the problem they continued on with amazing follow-up to all parties involved.  When poor Dragon got a foxtail in his eye and I took him to his vet for treatment DogVacay CONTACTED ME immediately the next day to make sure all was well and to tell me they would be paying me back (originally Dragon’s owner and I had discussed him paying me back).   I even did it wrong and they STILL called me immediately letting me know they would pay me and to NICELY direct me on how to act in the future …. with NO JUDGEMENT AND TONS OF “THANKS FOR BEING A GOOD HOST.”

I simply can not say enough about how impressed I am at how they have handled every interaction I’ve had with them and what I’ve witnessed with how they interact with my dog guest’s mom and dads.  From what I know they are a small company that is growing.  I hope they maintain their great service as they grow bigger but I don’t see why they wouldn’t.  They have proven they have a very strong devotion to the company’s values, their clients, and the dogs.  In fact, if getting to their office wasn’t such a horrible commute for me I’d be sending over my resume every day until they hired me!  (Sadly dog sitting doesn’t make me enough money to live on so I’m still looking for a full-time gig.)

Recently a good friend of mine in NJ/NY asked me if I knew of someone in her area that could watch her dog for an upcoming vacation.  Unfortunately I didn’t, but I told her how I would act if I was looking for a host on DogVacay.  As a super protective dog mom and host myself I feel like I’m in a unique position to offer advice on this matter.  I decided to pass this on to you so if you ever plan on using DogVacay.com, as you should, you will have the inside scoop!

When looking for a host:

  • image (4)The site allows you to search around your zip code to see what hosts are available.  You can filter your search results based on a few specific needs you may have like, “ability to give oral medication,” and/or “houses without dogs.”  Go in and do a search first to see what you find.
  • The hosts bio will include information on him/her and dogs in the house, what type of living environment they have (house, apt, yard, etc.) and, hopefully, pictures.  My first tip.  Look for hosts with pictures.  There is no real good reason for this except it helps to see that they care enough to post pictures of them, any dogs they have taken care of, their dog adventures, etc.
  • Under the “Credentials” section look for hosts that have “Premium Insurance.”  This means the host has opted to purchase additional insurance above and beyond what the site offers as a default.  It is inexpensive for the host and, I think, is good for all parties involved.  My Premium Insurance is what covered Dragon’s vet visit so that his folks didn’t have to pay.
  • Also under “Credentials” look for “References Checked.”  Usually when I’m in the position of hiring manager I’d tell you references are useless.  Any blockhead can get 3 people to say he/she is a good guy.  In this case the DogVacay site is dealing with folks that they haven’t meant.  They aren’t hiring hosts but instead providing a community were hosts can hook up with customers (dogs and dog parents).  It is up to you to do any kind of interview that you feel is required with the host.  The references checked means the host cared enough to get three friends to answer DogVacay’s questions about them in writing.  There is also a notation that says whether someone at DogVacay has conducted a phone interview.  I wouldn’t hold it against someone if they don’t have that … mostly because I don’t.  The company is a bit behind in getting up to date on those.  I sent in a request for a call when I first started as a host and it hasn’t happened yet and I’m a good host … so ….
  • Finally I would make sure a host I considered had at least a couple of reviews (good ones).  I realize this isn’t fair to the new hosts who haven’t had an opportunity to earn reviews yet but I warned you I am a protective dog mom.
  • Also notice that many hosts offer other services.  Go to that tab if  you want to check it out.  Other services can include day care, baths, grooming, training, drop off/pick up, etc.  Note that all the prices, including overnights, are included but hosts can give custom rates.  As an example, I give a discount when there are multiple dogs coming from the same family.  Feel free to use the “ask the host a question” button if you want to ask about a service they provide, any costs, possible discounts, or even something that they haven’t listed.
  • Okay you have a list of hosts … now what?  Personally I’d go on a “meet and greet” with any host I was thinking of hiring.  At the meet and greet I can get any questions answered with the added benefit of meeting the host personally and seeing the space my dog will be staying in.  (Make sure dogs meet correctly … more on this later.  It’s important to note that many of my dog guests haven’t had a meet and greet before staying with me and I have never had an issue.)

image (3)Huge rule during meet and greet and/or any pre discussions with hosts.  BE HONEST.  If you have ANY concerns and/or your dog has any “issues” make it clear to the hosts so she/he knows what to expect.  Holding back only makes the hosts job harder and can possibly put your dog in danger.  Don’t feel like “letting it all hang out” is going to stop the host from accepting the job and frankly if it does consider it a bullet dodged.  If your dog has separation anxiety and may destroy things if left alone … SAY THAT.  If your dog doesn’t do well around strangers … SAY THAT.  If your dog doesn’t eat when you leave him alone … SAY THAT.  If you are anxious having your dog off leash even in off leash approved areas … SAY THAT.  Any and all information is helpful and needed!  Don’t be afraid to let your dog crazy show.  More than likely you aren’t the weirdest dog person the host has dealt with.   The fact that you care enough to find the best sitter for your dog proves that he/she is part of the family.  Not a dog but your baby.  You are allowed to be a little bonkers.

You have chosen and booked your dog’s vacay!  What to do now?  Get him packed and ready to go!  Here is what you should bring:

  • Food.  More than enough for the amount of time your dog will be on vacay.
  • Treats.  Double what you think you should pack.  Assume the treats will be eaten by the house dog and yours.  It is just easier and less fighting if everyone gets the same treat at the same time … just like human kids.  Remember your dog is in a foreign place and his favorite treats can be used by the host to help him remain calm and happy and to connect with his vacay family!  More than likely your dog will be getting plenty of house dog treats too.  It all evens out!
  • If your dog has a food allergy be sure to let the host know.
  • Emergency numbers and medical info including your dog’s weight.  Copy of licence and rabies vaccination isn’t necessary but good to have.  Honestly only one of my dog folks has brought it and I have never needed it … but since I’m telling you want to bring I’m adding this to the list for good measure!
  • A non-retractable leash.  In general I say always use a lead vs. retractable leash but when handing  your dog over to the sitter definitely stick with the lead.  It’s very difficult to walk multiple dogs with a retractable leash and due to the way the leash works it isn’t really safe for any dog/human involved.
  • Dog seat belt …. if you have one.
  • Walking harness …. if you have one.
  • If you think it will help your dog feel at home, and it is possible, bring his bed.  Personally my ugly plush carpet makes my house one big giant bed with a sprinkling of actual dog beds here and there.  Many of my dog guests have slept on one of Riggins bed, the floor, or up in bed with me (or us, if Riggins feels he needs to be there too).  Still anyone who has brought a bed with him has used it.  It becomes their safe zone in the house … their personal real estate.
  • Crate and pee pads if needed.
  • Skip the toys and chews.  Unless you are sending your dog to a house with no other pets  keep toys and chews at home.  The host dog is probably used to sharing his toys while your dog is use to having his favorite all to himself.  Whenever a mom/dad brings a toy or chew with their dog I end up having to take it away and only let the guest dog have it when the dog’s are separated for eating.

Saying hi and goodbye.

  • image (1)The DogVacay site does give hosts tips on how dogs should meet.  You should know them too so that you make sure they are followed for any first (or even second) greeting.  Dogs should meet on neutral ground.  When I have a dog come I ask his folks to take him immediately to the backyard.  I then let the guest dog get the lay of the land while I talk to his folks and ask all my questions.  When it seems the guest dog is settled into his new environment I’ll let Riggins (and any other dog I’m watching at that time) come to the backyard.  Once all are happy with each other than we will go inside and take a tour of the house.  Since Riggins and dogs I watch, tend to be protective of me I don’t sit down but instead stay standing and keep the dogs in open areas as they get to know each other.  This cuts back on any possible protective growls and fights.  The DogVacay site suggests the next step should be taking the dogs for a walk together.  Personally I’d want this done during meet and greet.  If you do this step my suggestion is to let the host take the house dog and your dog out around the block without you.  Dogs, like kids, act different when they are away from their folks … usually better.  To be honest I’ve only done this once and it was the one time I had an issue and a dog attacked Riggins … grrrr.  Just goes to show you there really is no fool-proof way to make everything work out.  Normally I’ll wait until after my guests folks are gone THEN take the dogs on a walk or, if they are doing well and have no problems, pack them up and take them for a hike.   A longer walk and/or hike doesn’t just help the dogs get to know each other and work together but also poops them out.  Remember a pooped out dog is a happy dog!
  • Just like a child when you leave your dog don’t make a fuss.  Just leave.  Extra hugs, kisses, cuddling, etc is just going to cause your dog to take longer to settle in.  I won’t lie to you … I’d totally be bad at this if I was leaving Riggins.
  • Your guest will automatically have the phone number you included on your DogVacay profile but if you have others that you can receive picture texts on let them know.  The DogVacay site will prompt the host to send you pictures via email (it goes through their system) if you want lots of pictures and/or want it more directly via text just tell the host.  You will notice an extra number on the texts.  That’s just the DogVacay site folks to make sure they are in the loop.

When you get home and pick up your pooch be ready to get smothered in licks and snuggles because no matter how much fun your doggie has on his vacay there is no place like home and no one like mom!

(If you follow my blog you’ve seen oodles of pictures of most of my dog guests.  I’ve included a sampling here for you to ooh and aah over.)

Cheerios – Insert Ridiculous Negativity Here

03 Monday Jun 2013

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SO MUCH TO TALK ABOUT I DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START.  This weekend has been a doozy of activity and my brain is on overdrive.  Last night’s episode of Game of Thrones could really be the daily topic for the rest of the week!  Sat night I attended a fun-filled wig party which means you NEED to see pictures.  Poor adorable Dragon had to go to the vet today to get a foxtail out of his eye leading me to an anger against nature, which should be discussed.  For some reason I got on a tangent about corporate America and how much more efficient and decent it would be if it wasn’t for the expected and bullshit ass kissing …. one of my favorite topics.  The news about a Cheerios commercial being “controversial” due to an interracial marriage has me fuming about some people’s use of the internet.  Finally, adorable Bandit was free to go home to his mom after 3+ years of unfair incarceration but sweet Phineas is still fighting for his life and being mistreated by brainless humans in power.

BREATHE

For today why don’t I focus on the interaction of the internet and then leave you with some cutie pictures of Dragon to help cleanse your palate.  Deal?  DEAL!

Although I am currently a brilliant dog sitter my background is in market research, media intelligence, and social media consulting/research.  This gives me the knowledge to be a whole other type of angry at the whole Cheerios ridiculousness (Don’t know what I’m talking about?  Read this.)  By the time I heard of this story General Mills had disabled the comment section on their YouTube channel so I really can’t find any comments that are negative, racist, or hurtful anymore.  Oh I’m sure if I tried hard enough, I could find someone somewhere with a webpage spewing hatred but that isn’t what comes up when I search for the story.  General Mills did a good job of shutting the whole thing down.  That should have been the end of it.  But noooooooooooooo.  The internet went BONKERS, as it sometimes tends to do and what, sadly, can be considered a normal reaction to an Internet posting spiraled into so many “discussions” that the traditional media picked it up.  Then doing what it does best, the media made a story out of something that isn’t really much of a story.  Is it really shocking that people are hateful?  Does it really surprise you that there are folks that can still be labeled as “racist” living among us?  I am in NO WAY saying any of the negativity was right or should be tolerated.  I heart Cheerios and I think that little girl on the commercial is cute as a button!  Most brands do AND SHOULD have rules in place as part of their social media strategy, on any of the internet real estate they are using to support the brand, that specifically tells readers certain types of feedback and comments will not be tolerated and will be taken down.

What I am saying is that you can find that level of human stupidity on almost EVERY posting on the internet, YouTube, news articles, blogs, forums, microblogs, all of it.  The story, for me, isn’t “Cheerios was attacked” but more “the Internet is a place to attack.”  Sadly people feel safe as faceless users behind their computer screen and become braver than you would expect (BTW good example of why online focus groups can be more “honest” than in person).  I read a lovely post about Patrick Stewart’s very personal work he does with women’s groups specifically to support stopping abuse against women.  THAT POSTING HAD MORE NEGATIVE COMMENTS THAN POSITIVE.  Can you imagine?  A few of the posts were suggesting Patrick Stewart (aka the best of all the captains) was being unfair to his father.  He wasn’t, in fact he was very level-headed and empathetic to not only his mother but her abuser, his father.  Any 1/2 wit with a brain could see that.  There were comments about how the idea of supporting an end of abuse against women is sexist because there is violence against men and women.  Okay … true enough … but THIS POST IS ABOUT VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN YOU TWATS!   A N D there … I just illustrated the other problem for you.  Anger has become our go to emotion on the internet.  It isn’t nice productive, “let’s discuss our difference in opinion” type unhappiness its name calling, hair pulling, all out screaming hatefulness.

I’ve read sites (like Phineas’ Facebook page) where the owner of the site has to keep reminding its emotional readers that what the goal of the site is, to help save a life, and that the community will not threaten those involved in any way.  You see the same reminders when anything about religion and/or equal rights is being reported on or discussed.  Isn’t that a given?  Why do we have to be reminded not to be assholes?  When did name calling back and forth EVER solve anything?

I often refuse to read comments to an article that I’ve read on-line.  Other times I’m drawn to the comment section like it’s a train wreck I can’t look away from.  I know that by the time I get to the fourth message I will be furious at someone.  When selling social media research and/or listening the sales person will focus on how important it is that you control and drive the “discussion.”  That you “listen and respond appropriately” and be “open and honest in your communications.”  Sadly a “discussion” rarely seems to happen.  Instead it is thoughtless outbursts of hatred and meanness with no way of being held accountable for what you have done.   Words do hurt.  They hurt humans and they hurt brands and entire companies.  Thumbs up to the digital/social media team at General Mills.  Killing the ability for folks to give feedback without taking down the actual “controversial” video was the right thing to do.  I really hope that’s where they stopped and they weren’t behind making this an even bigger story.  I want to believe that they weren’t and that instead they have handled and responded to the media stories with style and grace.  After all there HAS to a protagonist somewhere in this story right?  We need someone to cheer on.

This entire mess doesn’t just highlight the darkness of humans but it is a landmine for companies and brands.  Woowee … if you don’t have a CLO (Chief Listening Officer) I suggest you get one STAT.  If you are in LA I’m happy to send over my resume!

P.S.  When I worked in Guest Services at Disneyland ions ago it was known that you really weren’t an expert at City Hall (the shift that put you in the front line of angry guests as this was where people were sent to complain) until someone made you cry.  I feel the same way about blogging.  You haven’t made it as a blogger until the ugly and ridiculous comments start rolling in.  I SO WANT THAT TO HAPPEN TO ME.  Maybe today is the day I make it!  Perhaps THIS is the post that will make me a real blogger … fingers crossed!

P.P.S.  Adorable pictures of Dragon as promised!

image (3) photo (3)

 

Lousy’s Last Night

23 Tuesday Apr 2013

Posted by in Riggins

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photo (3)I have to admit I’m pretty torn up about this being Lousy’s last night with Riggins and me. Despite of (or maybe because of) his need to kill friends and strangers I just adore him.  Although he may want to kill you, he is a giant cuddle monster to me.  I can’t move far without his adorable little wiggle butt somewhere beside or on top of me.   Right now he is under my desk unhappy that he can’t be in my lap.  By far the cuddiliest dog I’ve ever meant.

Running the Rose Bowl trails.

Running the Rose Bowl trails.

Since he is three and is Riggins’ almost 1/2 brother he reminds me of how Riggins acted at his age.  Lousy is a calm bunny compared to Riggins.  At that age I could not just watch TV.  I had to watch TV AND throw a ball down the hall over and over again.  Lousy will happily curl up and go to sleep at bedtime.  At his age Riggins would grab a squeaky ball and sprint around the house while I prayed to every god I don’t believe in to get him to stop.  In the morning Lousy will happily jump up on my bed and curl up at me knees for a few more zzzzzs.  At that age Riggins would be up and ready to go.  I’d have to semi-tackle him and soothingly pet and murmur statements of love to get him to settle down for a bit more shut-eye.

Almost 1/2 brothers at the dirty dog park.

Almost 1/2 brothers at the dirty dog park.

Riggins is older and calmer now.  MUCH CALMER and has been a champ with Lousy this week.  Although there have been a few warning barks, in general they get along great.  Riggins has even figured out how to use Lousy’s energy to his advantage.  Riggins will camp out on my bed or on my lap and when he hears something going on outside he will start barking letting Lousy know that he needs to check it out.  Lousy will then bound up from wherever he is and make a beeline for the door ready and willing to defend his new castle.  Riggins thinks it is great!  He gets to be the guard dog he wants to be without even getting up!

Runyon (It was hard to get him to leave my side so I could take a picture.)

Runyon (It was hard to get him to leave my side so I could take a picture.)

Tomorrow I’ll pack up Lousy’s things and get him ready for his parents to come home.  I’m sure he will be ecstatic to see them … but I think he will miss us just a little!

 

 

Good Listening Skills – by Riggins

17 Wednesday Apr 2013

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As a former salesperson I’ve sat through oodles of sales meetings.  Ask anyone who has been to those with me and they will be able to tell you that I think they are crap.  The most valuable thing about sales meetings is the bonding time between you and your co-workers. This is especially valuable for those working outside of the home office.  The meeting themselves …. zzzzzzz …. snore fest.  Even those portions I’ve had to lead as a sales manager were useless.  Something about the stale air of a conference room makes everyone zombies.  Anyway, most sales meetings include a guest speaker/teacher who will impart his/her selling skills to the group.  This usually ends up in the good kids nodding their head in approval, the annoying kids fighting back saying it won’t work in our industry, and the bad kids (aka me) figuring out more effective way to pass notes to other bad kids.

I remember being in a classroom like setting at a conference and being given a test by our guest sales guru.  It was to show us how good of a listener we are …. good listening = good selling to this specific gentleman.  My friend, who was sitting in front of me, and I started laughing.  Laughing out loud … we were going to fail … we knew it.  I continued to giggle while taking the test as I could hear him mumble, “always,” “of course,” “sure,” “yup,” etc.  By the time the guru got to the part of the “lesson” where he asked us to raise our hands depending on how we answered I was in stitches.  Of course most of the room went with the correct answers while my friend and I decided to just be honest.  “Do you interrupt people while they are still talking?”  Our hands go up …. “I mean if they haven’t got anything good to say that isn’t our problem.”  “Do you sometimes judge people based on what they first say to you?”  Our hands go up … “To be fair it isn’t sometimes it’s always.”  It continued like that until a VP asked if we needed to be separated.  HA HA HA!  We were grown adults being separated in school like kindergarteners.  Sadly it wasn’t the only time I’ve been told I couldn’t sit by someone specific during a conference.

Given my poor listening skills I shouldn’t be surprised by Riggins actions on the hill today.  Please view the video below.  Note at the very beginning Riggins is the black spec near the top of the hill.  He is hard to see because of his coloring so you have to look carefully.

photo (1)(We are currently dogsitting an adorable puppers, Lousy.  I’m told that name was his dad’s idea.  I can’t make fun.  If it had been totally up to me Riggins name would have been Poopers.  Lousy is part pointer and part pit.  That makes him Riggins 1/2 brother.  Riggins treats him just like a younger brother.  I had to remind Riggins that when he was 3 he had as much, if not more energy than Lousy.  Like any little brother Lousy crawls all over Riggins and snuggles his way under Riggins and into my lap.  He is definitely a cuddle monster!)