Our Famous Friend

It has been a thrilling week for us. Not only did we celebrate five years of Bingley's inimitable company, but on Tuesday evening, we had the thrill of seeing one of the Great Dog People of All Time, who just happens to be Bingley's and Magic's Dear Friend, step into the shoes of The Most Difficult Job In The World. Forget Secretary General of the United Nations. Forget POTUS. Once a year, Best In Show Judge at Westminster is REALLY pressure! And Mike Dougherty made the tough call, like we knew he would. A number of our friends have told us that they "saw our friend" on television. We just bask in the reflected glory. You'll understand, though. I'm not encouraging any acquaintance between Bingley and Banana Joe. Bouncy little creatures interest him way too much.

Happy, Happy Day!

Five years ago today, John and I took Portia back to the kennel at Greyhound Adoption Center to select a playmate for her. We came home with Bingley. We were not to know that in less than eighteen months, Portia would die from a massive wound sustained in an attack by an unsocialized, off-leash dog. Bingley was also injured in the same attack. But he survived, and, now, he he setting new longevity records for our rescued dogs. Happy Gotcha Day, Bingley! A sweeter tempered dog never drew breath. Our only wish today is that we could have you with us for another five years.

Rescued!

Yesterday, this adorable little dog was safely transported across the international border and is living in a caring foster home, beginning a socialization process that will prepare her for her permanent situation. Many thanks to all the caring people who responded to her situation and offered help. Sometimes, there are happy endings. Update: Actually, I misunderstood. It is entirely possible that this little dog will be staying permanently in her present home. Her new mom clearly understands the needs of a shy, unsocialized little doggie.

A Cautionary Tale

The phone rang at about 6:30 this morning. A call at that time rarely brings a message of comfort and joy. Sure enough. A very small dog, Toffee, who is the companion of very good friends was vomiting blood and my friend needed to know the location of the emergency vet closest to her home. My identification with the situation was immediate and total. We came very close to losing Bingley shortly after we adopted him, when he developed a severe case of hemorrhagic gastro-enteritis. If you've witnessed that particular canine affliction first hand, I don't have to describe it. If you haven't, I'll spare you details but assure you that it is something you really want to miss. I just talked to Toffee's human and things are now under control and we can hope for a complete recovery. But in considering what might have triggered the episode, it was remembered that Toffee had been exposed to some new treats and novel foods. When I heard this, I thought, "Bingo!" It has become fashionable to feed dogs the way we feed children: offering them variety and "taste adventures." Toffee's guardians hadn't done that, but a hostess they were visiting had. Nearly all dogs respond to novel foods--and even non-foods--with enthusiasm. But for a certain number of dogs,novel food can lead to life threatening misery. Their systems cannot adapt to change and the intestinal track becomes irritated. In extreme cases such as Bingley's, the entire track becomes an open sore. So go easy on any dietary change for your dog. The most wholesome treat for one dog might spell an emergency vet's visit for another. And in case I haven't scared you enough, just a day or two ago, I read about another recall of dog treats that are imported from China. I can't remember the brand, but it was from a well-known company. The only reason I didn't pay attention is that my dogs eat only the prescription dog food that Bingley can tolerate, so I wasn't worried about them. Sometimes sameness has its benefits.

Glitch

The road to recovery has not been easy for Bingley. Early this week, he became reluctant to use his left front paw. We couldn't find any sign of trauma, and he didn't react when we examined it, but he would not put weight on it. So, today, it was back to Dr. Pearson. It's always heart-stopping when a Greyhound limps or refuses to use a paw. The specter of osteo-sarcoma is ever present. Happily, Bingley's x-rays were clear, so Dr. Pearson is hypothesizing a soft tissue injury. John is pretty sure Bingley did the damage running circuits around the living room. The two hardest things to get a Greyhound to do are 1) Stay off sofas. (We don't even try) and 2) Not run. Up to this time, we haven't really tried to stop him, but this is getting old and vet bills are piling up. Dr. Pearson has ordered rest for Bingley. I know he will happily comply about 97% of the time. It's what he does during the other 3% that concerns me.

Calico Cat

We are mostly about dogs here at Friends of Portia, but we love cats, too--even though our canine companions "love" them for all the wrong reasons, so co-existence is not possible. This morning I learned of a ten year old Calico in desperate need of a home. Her human companion is in failing health and can no longer care for her. She is well behaved, de-clawed and affectionate. She is not accustomed to other pets, so needs to be an only. At ten years, a cat is just entering the prime of life. If you or someone you know can offer Maxine a home, email me at: portiasmom at live dot com.

Still Looking

I was certain that such an adorable dog would have found a home, but no such luck. If you are interested in this package of cuteness, a female Lhasa-Poodle mix, please email me at: portiasmom at live dot com.