Thursday, December 25
The plan for this Christmas morning is to take Bridget to Bachelor Cove on Roosevelt Lake where she can frolic along the shore. Yesterday, as we pass the cove, I noticed that the beach is deserted. Great! All those campers left!
“We’ll go to the beach tomorrow,” I tell Bridget. “It’s too late to go there today.”
In the morning I scratch that plan.
It’s too cold and grey for frolicking along the lake. Instead Bridget and I keep warm all Christmas Day inside the Best Little Trailer.
Christmas morning I cook pork slices in a skillet for Bridget.
I chop the pork into tiny pieces, just the way she likes it, and then present the small paper plate of morsels to Her Regal Preciousness (or is it Her Precious Regalness?) who waits impatiently at my feet.
“Merry Christmas, honey.” She snorks and smacks up that pork with gusto!
I indulge myself with an apple turnover (actually two turnovers!) to accompany cups of freshly perked coffee. As if the turnovers aren’t sweetness enough, I open up this blog and scroll down to read with delight the many sweet messages that have come in from blogorinos, near and far.
What a treat to see your name appear!
The merry messages on my computer monitor remind me of the Christmas cards my mother used to display in the days leading up to Christmas. She’d tack up string and every day the newest batch of cards would be hung on it, creating cheery, (and free) garlands on the walls and around door jambs.
“Which one is your favorite?” my two sisters and I would ask each other as we examined the colorful cards. “I like this one the BEST! . . . No, THIS one is the best . . . .”
Sigh, girlish voices from the past . . .
Well, I don’t have a favorite from the batch of wishes sent to Bridget and me for Christmas this year. That’s because I love them all! Thank you! I hope your holiday held special meaning for you, whatever your circumstances may be this year.
Friday, December 26
Today it’s sunny and much warmer!
Off we go to walk the shore of Roosevelt Lake.
We find someone is camped at Bachelor Cove, too.
Well, there’s enough room for us not to bother them. I find a place to park where the ground is firm.
The PTV sits on what once was the bottom of the lake.
Freshwater shells litter the ground. Bridget is excited, of course. We walk along the shoreline. I take photos and Bridget takes note of the smells.
Rocks cover most of the shore.
Some sort of tumbleweed is caught at the water’s edge. In the photo below Bridget probably reads a message left by a recent canine visitor.
It’s good to be outside again after a spate of cold weather!
Here are the trailer and vehicles of the people camped at the cove.
Bridget and I walk up the road and back for more exercise.
We will leave Roosevelt Lake in a few days, Monday or Tuesday.
Of course, whenever I predict what we will do, we often don’t do it!
I’ve done a bit more searching for a new crew member.
I found a candidate who might qualify. The “rescue” organization is asking $300. Doesn’t that seem a bit steep for a mixed-breed dog? The dog has been neutered and given its shots. Micro-chipping is not mentioned in the dog’s description.
I hesitate for two reasons.
The dog may be too small (12 lbs.) for the lifestyle of a crew member. The price, although not beyond my reach, makes me uncomfortable. Maybe that’s the going rate for Phoenix. I don’t know. I don’t want to support any enterprise that’s not a rescue, but in reality a profit-making venture using the name of “rescue.” Maybe I shouldn’t care about that. Hmm . . . .
rvsue
THANKS FOR SHOPPING AMAZON THROUGH MY BLOG!
Bridget enjoys a patch of green near our camp.
Click here to shop Amazon now!
Am I first? Happy day after Christmas!!!
Looking forward to your new crew member, whenever you decide!
It will be fun to introduce the new crew member!
Congratulations, Pat. Happy day to you, too!
I’m with you, Sue…$300 seems awfully high for a rescue dog. I thought it would be $100 at the max for a neutered dog with shots. Glad you and Miss Bridget had a good Christmas.
Take care.
Cat Lady
Hi, Cat Lady,
I was surprised. Maybe vets in Phoenix charge a lot? This dog didn’t require any special medical procedures.
Firstly, Happy Holidays, your Christmas blog was outstanding, had an entertaining, nostalgic, slower pace to it. I’d love for you to start a column on your blog with your impressions of all those things us baby boomers cherish — in addition to your daily impressions, of course. Girl you can write! BTW, the $300 is not linked to the “worth” of the dog. It is a contribution to maintain the rescue facility. All those Walmart rotisserie chickens add up!
Hi, Gayle,
I’m taking note of your suggestion. Thanks.
You liked the slower pace. Reminds me of a time when I taught 6th graders. I excused one boy from class so he could use the restroom. He took a long time. I look out into the hall and here he comes, very slowly. I smile and say to him as he finally makes it back to the classroom door, “If you walked any slower, you’d be going backwards.”
I bet there are folks who think the same about the pace of this blog!
Good point about the money being a donation, not to be considered the worth of the dog.
Yes, the slower pace was a really relaxing experience! I noticed it immediately! I am more a word person than an image person, so words relax me more than pix, although you CERTAINLY have relaxing pix! I jumped onto your blog after my son left Christmas Eve. Delighted to hear your memories of our lives as they were. Thought about the things you mentioned all the next day! I’d love to hear your memories, and since you have such a literate, sophisticated group of blogerinos, what a pleasure it would be to share around this!
And I believe I am second!!!
Nope, I am 3rd.. Oh well, I am just glad to be here and comment on the beautiful pictures. I love being at the water’s edge. I do remember all those Christmas cards! How Mother enjoyed them. $300 seems steep for a rescue dog. The local animal shelter here was offering them in a 12 days of Christmas special for $12.oo which included neutering, chip and shots. I am sure there must be some blogerinos that are familiar with that area. Perhaps they can steer you in the right direction.
All in well here in Northeastern Mississippi.
Love you!
Hi,, Pauline,
I recall when I was at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in southern Utah, they had a month-long special… $42 for a dog. Maybe hearing that spoiled me.
We’re both second, Pauline. Hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas.
Cat Lady
Too bad you can’t rent to own a new crew member.
Hi Sally,
It isn’t really the money but then again it is the money. I don’t mind paying the bills a dog has incurred while in “rescue.” This is a small rescue organization, looks like it operates out of someone’s home.
OK, now that I have gotten over my shock of possible being first, I actually READ your 12/26 blog all the way to the bottom. I don’t think $300 sounds terribly high for a rescue. We paid exactly that for our first rescue and then two years later, the organization waived the fee when we got our second rescue from them (this was in Southern California). I have gotten to know some of the people who work at the rescue organization and there is a LOT that goes into that kind of operation. There are costs associated with the intake of new animals, medical/vet costs, neutering, grooming, insurance, behavioral assessments, promotional (i.e., ads in papers, adoption events), and probably lots of other costs I’m not even aware of. It could be that one dog comes in fairly healthy and not needing a lot of investment, but the savings on that dog could be offset by another dog that comes in that needs a lot of vet care or perhaps, behavioral training. I’d just learn as much as you can about this particular rescue group and then go with your gut instinct. Oh, and regarding the weight … both of my rescues gained weight after coming home with us. I’m told that’s very common because they are often stressed in the rescue situation and become better eaters and generally more healthy once they are in a permanent, loving environment. Good luck deciding – I can’t wait to see the lucky pup who gets to come and live with you and Bridget!!
Hi, Cindy,
I would expect a dog purchased in southern California to cost more than other places. You’re right about weight gain… My Janie was showing her ribs when I brought her home. In a week she turned into Miss Tubular! She cost $100, BTW.
Glad you had a nice Christmas and walk today. As far as the rescue organization goes, I would be more hesitant if they didn’t ask a good price. It costs a lot to neuter, vaccinate, feed, house, etc the dogs. When we rescued our two cockers, they did a home visit to make sure 1: We were who we said we were 2: Had adequate place for the dog, fenced in yard, etc. A big problem for rescues is “return” dogs. They really like to get it right the first time. Just be sure to google them, (which I am sure you have done already) and maybe some of your followers may have had dealings with this rescue. Hope it turns out a fit for you and Bridget, but if not, there are always more to chose from, unfortunately.
Hi Cathie,
This dog is only 7 months old and his potential weight at adulthood is 12 lbs. That little guy hasn’t eaten much!
I used to foster dogs and do the home visits and decide if the home was acceptable. The organization I volunteered for had the philosophy of keeping the adoption fees low (donated food, foster homes absorbing costs, fundraisers, etc.) while being very careful about placement, the idea being to move dogs into homes, rather than having a slot occupied in a foster home for a long time, waiting to get a high price, while dogs down at the “shelter” were being killed.
In my search I’m running into a lot of high prices for dogs taken out of the shelters by “rescues,” leaving the shelters with the most undesirable dogs.
Good day Sue & Bridget. Sounds like Bridget had a lovely Christmas treat. Your Christmas Day would suit me just fine. Our Christmas was quiet. Getting my mother to come next door here was a challenge but we finally did succeed. She seems to want to sleep all day the comes to life for 5-6 hours in the evening. I have a nice new Nikon 3200 to use now….for the Arizona days we hope are coming.
Just want to tell you how our shelter prices dogs. We used to charge $100 per dog, helps offset the cost of shots, spaying etc. Now, if we have a very popular breed, it could be more $. Or if the dog came in needing lots of dental work or any other expensive treatment, the price could easily be $400. The little Boston Terrier pup just went for $400. Our shelter is non-profit with absolutely no government funding so we survive on money from adoptions and donations and fundraisers. Hope you find the right little companion. Bridget looks like she is enjoying being “the only” for now.
As always, looking forward to your next camp
Hi, Val R.,
I’m glad you enjoyed a quiet Christmas and that you succeeded in including your mother. Congratulations on the new camera! You will have fun with it, I’m sure, when you come to Arizona.
Your explanation of the setting of prices for dogs sounds like what I’m coming across. The more popular the breed, the higher the price.
Merry Day After Christmas. You Christmas Day sounded alot like mine. Stayed inside for the most part and stayed warm. It was not real cold here, but just got chilled and could not seem to get warm. I agree that $300.00 is too high for a rescue. Go to the animal shelter. Those dogs are all looking for a good homes too. For the price you would pay there you could afford to get it neutered and shots and still come out ahead. Our animal shelter here in Southaven is trying very hard to be a no-kill facility as are many around the country. You might try one in your area. Give Bridgett a scratch for me and thanks for sharing your days with us.
Hi, Jean,
I’m checking the animal shelters through petfinder and petharbor. I admit I’m being fussy about my choice. The dog needs to be compatible in size, energy and temperament with Bridget, can’t be too big or too powerful, can’t be so small it can’t walk far, needs to work nicely on a leash alongside Bridget, can’t be a breed that will run after a scent or bolt at the sight of a rabbit . . . plus I want a dog that is reasonably photogenic. I’ve come across dogs with furry black faces, whose eyes can barely be seen in a photo. I do prefer white or light-colored dogs with short hair and I have a soft heart for certain types of terriers.
Yes, I’m picky. This is a long-term commitment!
Can’t go wrong with a Boston Sue! Yes, I am definitely biased. Hahahaha.
Okay–left out that all important comma. I’ve had the flu…
Typical teacher… Work hard and then, when you have a break, get sick!
Get better soon, DeAnne!
Sue, I have to disagree with you on the price. Transportation, shots, neutering, and exams are all included in the pricing. We rescued a Beagle from Kentucky and her fees were 400.00. We were in MA. At the time. The other pup was from Tennesee, and she was 350.00. Transportation from their home state was included in this price. I think its a deal, compared to what breeders want for their pups, but that’s my OP. I’m so happy to hear you’re considering adding to your family!!!
Hi, Donna,
You don’t say whether your dogs are purebred or not. This is a mixed-breed dog. No transportation is involved. I used to volunteer to transport dogs from a rescue organization to adopters at my own cost until gas prices made it prohibitive. I also was taken advantage of by people who could’ve done the driving themselves (obviously able and well-off), but instead let the rescue organization (meaning me) provide it.
Thanks for the perspective on the price. If I don’t take this dog, someone else surely will.
Radar was our $400 pound puppy! The adoption fee was only $75. Radar had heart worms and they had decided that they would put him down the next day. Nobody wanted to pay the $300 for this treatment which according to the vet, might kill him! Radar had a very bad case of heartworms! I called the vet and he verified this but he said if he survived, Radar was the sweetest dog ever! I should mention that at this time, Chuck and I were camping in Idaho and Radar was in north Florida! I found him on facebook! Needless to say Radar was my dog, sight unseen and $400 poorer! He has been worth every penny, the vet was right…the sweetest dog ever!
I agree with Donna. As with everything else, the cost of shelter, neuter/spay, vaccinations, etc., has increased. The prices do vary in some states. The real cost is in the “maintenance” program which includes annual check-ups, follow up vaccinations, heartworm preventative, flea and tick meds and grooming. Doggie dental work is costly and hopitalization is through the roof.
Cookiedoe is my rat terrier. She is smart, funny and very low maintenance. A good breed for the road, don’t you think?
Just get a Lab. Preferably, a yellow. Good size. Good protector. Great disposition. Good for about 14 years. We’ve had three. We have a Silkie now but would take another Lab in a second. A pup. Probably won’t find one as a rescue. And it will likely be more than $300. But, oh the joy! Well worth it. Don’t you just LOVE my opinion? 🙂
Hi, Ed,
Your love and devotion to labs is clouding your judgement, I fear. My floor is 27 inches wide. Think about that… a little over two feet wide. Imagine a full-grown lab lying on my floor as I get up in the middle of the night to go to my bathroom. I’d have to do the long-jump or pole vault! Haha!
Yes, labs are wonderful. Not a good fit for our situation though. Thanks for sharing your opinion.
The Lab, he or she, wouldn’t be a problem since it would be in YOUR BED. There would be a new Prince or Princess in town.
Okay, maybe a Chihuahua. They can be pretty fierce. 🙂
Or something in between a chi and a lab. 🙂
Ed, you made me laugh. We have a van with a 70 pound lab mix. Between the wheelchair and the dog. I squeeze around in the van.
The bed he waits I til I get Randy in and he climbs right in beside him, but we would not have it any other way. He is the best service dog ever, glad to hear they can live so long.
happy day after christmas to you both. so glad you got out to enjoy the scenery. couldn’t help but comment on your search for a new crew member. i’d highly recommend the humane society, there should be a local branch somewhere near you. i got my darling, merlin, from the flower mound humane society near my home in 2005 and could not be happier with him. all 14 lbs of nonshedding schnoodle, such a smart, active, happy little fellow, a true joy to have around. he meets no strangers and loves travelling with the casita. he was just barely a year when i fostered him, fell in love and adopted him. fully housebroken, eager to please, the best companion i could ask for. as i recall, it cost $160.00 then, they now ask $200.00 but i think it’s money well spent. merlin came to me with all of his shots/neutered/full examined and whatever they make over and above all that goes to rescue more animals.
good luck in your search and we all look forward to hearing who the lucky canine is who gets to join you and bridget on a life of travel and sightseeing. lucky dog!
Hi, Claire,
I’m very glad you found Merlin… He obviously is perfect for you and well-loved. You got a bargain!
I will keep looking at the shelters. Around here they seem to have a lot of pit bulls and older chihuahuas.
“Ditto” to the many comments about the costs of adopting from a rescue – the adoption fee can seem high, and I try to keep in mind the many expenses incurred. Most of my adoptions have been from animals dropped on our road and while there were no adoption fees, the vet bills typically run about as much as the fees you mention once we get the babies healthy – so it all balances out!
Had to snicker at your comment about Bridget reading canine messages – we always say ours are “reading the mail”!
We are heading to Tucson in late January in our Casita for our first expedition that far west, with a stop over @ Bosque del Apache (we are bird nerds). Looking forward to seeing the unique southwestern terrain first hand.
Merriest Christmas Wishes and a Safe and Happy New Year!
Hi, Sandy,
How exciting… setting out in your Casita soon. Bosque del Apache is the place to go for bird nerds. Bob at cheaprvliving.com was there recently and posted some stunning photos of sand cranes in flight.
Thanks for the wishes… The same for you!
Beautiful pictures ,I especially love the one of Bridget beneath”It’s good to be outside again…” , so cute it must make picking her up hard to resist . Sweets and treats for breakfast-nice!Three hundred doesn’t seem much for the RIGHT new addition to a family.I’ve had to spend far more on spaying,shots and/or remedying what some of mine came to me in need of-critters and humans alike.I’d gladly do all of it again in a second,just saying we know the worth and regrets are never part of the package.Glad that you spent Christmas enjoying the day for what it is,ours matched a record set about eighty years ago for warmth overnight Christmas eve.Great to have you back!
P.S.In my experiences with rescues that got the animals from shelters they’re reasoning in choosing those most adoptable as pets was either it was a shelter without a no-kill policy or one that could not afford to care for all they had.Folks with puppy mill scum ethics are rarely found in the field of rescue,for profit rescues have the same expenses others do each month at home…
Hi, weather,
I appreciate that nice welcome back. So you had a warm Christmas night in New York state. I bet that was appreciated by door-to-door carolers (if people do that any more)!
You make a good point… Who can put a price on the right dog? I think I paid $75 for Spike at animal control and we all know what a bargain that turned out to be!
Seems that price might be relative to wherever you are located…I have no idea of price of rescues here but let me tell you, the smaller dogs cost a royal fortune….at least $500 generally. Told my hubby…hummmm, might almost be worth breeding and raising pups at the prices they go for here (but of course, then you are worrying about who you sell too….we had a HARD time with that when we raised and sold guinea pigs….you HOPE it is a good home!!)
Hope you find the best companion for you and Bridget both, Sue!! Happy hunting!!
PS….the prices on dogs I mentioned are the ones in the newspaper…forgot to tell you that.
Thanks, Elizabeth. I’m sure the right dog will be found. You’re right about the small “special” breeds being pricier, especially the young ones.
So excited about the new to you crew member. I fully understand your hesitancy about supporting a for profit puppy mill but I’m wondering if maybe your over thinking this.
We paid $150 for Dexter about 5 years ago, I’m sure others will chime in about the going rate in their part of the country. Whatever the rate, whatever you end up paying won’t be what you will remember about this dog. Even if the humans you deal with may not have the purest of motivations means nothing to the dog that you will be bringing into your life. Dogs are just looking for a chance to love. The price you pay being a bit high or a bit low won’t mean a thing to you years from now when you think back to all of the love that this creature has brought you.
What is important is to make sure that this new crew member is the one for you and Bridget. A new member of the family that you will live with, laugh with, cry with, play with and most importantly fall in love with. Mere human dollars mean nothing in comparison to such true power.
You have a great heart Sue, listen to it and you will know what’s the right thing to do.
Thanks, Rick. You make several excellent points. Reading your comment helped me to realize a conflict in motivations, if that makes sense. On the one hand I want to take a dog into my home that is having a hard time finding a home.
On the other hand I want a dog who is young (I don’t want to go through loss again soon, even though I will with Bridget, hopefully not very soon) and also a dog that can be an active crew member. This dog I’m considering will be grabbed soon, maybe already has.
One of the precious things about Spike was knowing he was passed over by many prospective adopters at animal control and he certainly wasn’t a designer dog.
Merry Christmas Sue and Bridget! (Or Badger – LOL).
I’m still here, a most faithful reader, just don’t comment much.
I had my own rescue, a 501(c)3 and have been involved with rescue for 30 years. (I’m now retired, thank goodness!). I have to say that $300 sounds high to me, and yes rescues very often incur a lot more than that per dog. That is where fundraising comes in. Our prices varied due to many considerations, but most importantly we did have a high enough adoption fee to hopefully weed out the – well, the “weeds”.
Anyway, you’ve done rattie foster, and I know you know your stuff – you’ll know the crew member when your heart tells you this is the new crew member.
OH: And my dogs constantly check their Pee-Mail which is what I am sure Bridget is doing. 🙂
Jool in N. Texas
Hi, Jool,
The trouble with high fees for dog adoption is it does weed out prospective adopters, including those who would be responsible pet owners providing a safe and loving home. And yes, there are low income folks who are ignorant and unreliable, too many of them!
The dog I looked at didn’t incur unusually high bills. He’s young, cute, and a mix of popular breeds so he’s priced at what the market will bear, and, as a few have mentioned, the price pays for the bills of the sick and injured dogs.
Sue, the perfect crew member will come into your life when you least expect it. Don’t decide in haste.
I’ll be careful!
What ever happened to the days of going to the local pound and picking a new family member for $50?? And that included shots and spay. Now at the local pound they want at least $100 or more. They think that if they charge that much that you are serious about adopting. What also gets me is these so called re-homing fees from owners who can’t keep them anymore. It took awhile of looking but found my companion on Craigs list and the price was free with a short interview so they were comfortable with me and the dog approved of me. He was 9 months old last September when I picked him up. I had his shots updated and neutered and chipped on my dime. I fine with that. He’s a good boy and loves to hug. He’s a beagle mix with some kind of hound and about 25 pounds and shouldn’t get much bigger.
I’m glad you’re thinking of a new crew member, dogs are such great friends. Be safe miss Sue and crew.
You’re right, phoneguy… Those days of picking up a pup at the pound for less than $100 are pretty much gone.
I’m glad you found a good, huggable pal. I’m reluctant to bother with Craigslist, given my situation. I’m pretty choosy and I’d hate to meet up with an owner and a dog and then have to say, nope, not the one for me.
Thanks for the wish for our safety.
I have so enjoyed following you. I hope you find a companion for Bridget (and you). What about a shelter dog? You know they are doomed if someone doesn’t take them. I got my Midgy from a rescue in New Mexico. I know the person who runs it and yes there are lots of costs (not to mention heartaches) associated with the rescues. The more “adoptable” the dog the more they will ask in order to have the funds to rescue more. She has done it for 12 years and is just about finished with it. It’s taken a toll on her heart and her health I’m sure. Since I’m older now I’ve decided that when my pack starts to shrink I will adopt senior dogs in order to give them some loving final years. That I know will be heartbreaking too. I am glad your Christmas was uneventful…such a relaxing life you lead!! Be well!! Cuddles to Bridget….
Hi, Linda,
I admire you for planning to adopt senior dogs. Those are the saddest cases of all. I bet any senior dog taken into a loving home will have a most grateful attitude.
You be well, too. I’m happy you are enjoying my blog.
In considering a new crew member, the key thing is that YOU have to be comfortable with the organization as well as the dog. If you have doubts, then you haven’t found the right crew member. Possibly if you and Bridget go to visit the rescue organization you will feel more comfortable.
Enjoy your travels whatever you decide.
Hi, Reine,
It’s that uncomfortable feeling that has kept me from scooping up this adorable pup.
From your recent comments, it sounds like you and Paul had a very busy and full Christmas. You didn’t say where you are taking the Casita next… wherever you go, travel safe and have fun!
We’re heading to Little House Customs for a couple of small repairs and an evening with Larry and Debbie, then hitting the road east to meet up with friends near St. Augustine Florida for a little get together. This is our “March” trip a little early so we can be home for the arrival of grand girl #3 on March 2.
Yes it’s been busy but it’s good to visit with family and we’re blessed that we all get along.
Happy Boxing Day Sue!
Ahhhh… the price of a pooch. WELL. My Racy was an $1800.00 stroll through the mall impulse purchase (NOT by ME!!!) who we rescued after he had been tossed around by a 3 yr old and gotten his legs busted up (sad). I think I paid the final vet bill for the lady (who was the granny to the tot-and I think that was $200 or something–she should have paid me…but he was worth it). YOU will know if the dog is right for you. Bridget certainly will let you know too, I would think. I am sure the costs vary greatly from spot to spot. I will just hope that he or she fits in just dandy, and look forward to seeing their adventure unfold. What a lucky Pooch! <3
I have spent the last two days watching dumb netflix and sulking with a fever. I feel like POO.
Stay healthy, stay safe and have fun!
Hugs from Hoquiam,
Barb
PS My goodness the PTV is looking bright and snazzy! 🙂
Hi, Barb,
The PTV, up close, is a dirty mess!
I’m sorry you haven’t been feeling well. I hope whatever you have clears up soon.
Thanks for the wish for a perfect “fit” for the dog I bring home. I can tell you right now he won’t cost $1,800 plus $200 for a vet bill… You are a softie! I’m sure Racy is worth it!
Oh, I wouldn’t have paid the 1800… that was a silly thing to do on impulse… by a mom with too many gold cards (lol). Really some should NOT have critters…
Bridget is lookin’ so sharp–hiding the computer screen from my little Racy, or he will hijack.
Take care Sue!!!
Hugs,
Barb
I have been amazed at the prices the rescues charge for dogs around here. That $300.00 is right in the ballpark but I personally think it is high also. That is why I still go back to trying Craigslist in the area you are at or a local animal rescue league or kill shelter because they seem to be cheaper. With Craigslist you just have to be careful. I know there are those who will be all over my comment but I know too many people, us included who have found wonderful dogs from good people with bad circumstances on CL. Our wonderful Boston Terrier cost us $50. oo on CL.
Hi, Jolene,
I’m glad you had a good outcome with your Craigslist experience. Boston Terriers are delightful little bundles . . . .
Merry Christmas! I am celebrating and house sittting in Ajijic, MX. So exciting to think about an addition to your crew. My friend Deb would know all about dog rescue places in Phoenix. She has several rescued cuties at her house and volunteers. I can connect you if you want to talk to her. She is also an International backpacking guide, so knows the Phoenix area well and Deb loves wine.
Merry Christmas to you, too, UPCDebra! Thanks for the connection. At this point I’m taking the process very slowly. We have to move soon which will take us away from Phoenix.
Sue,
Neither of my two are purebred.. Unless you can say “crazy” qualifies as a purebred breed. Thats very cool that you used to transport. I adopted through PAWS, both times, and I was quite happy with the delivery and fees. I’m willing to bet because they were both “young” dogs, the fees were a bit higher than if I were to adopt a mature one. I just wanted to let you know that I think the fees are reasonable. I’m sure you’ll know instantly when you find the perfect crew member.
Hi, Donna,
From what you’ve written and from other comments, it sounds like $300 is typical for a small, good-looking, young dog.
I’d adopt through one of the rat terrier rescue organizations but they don’t have dogs available in Arizona right now and I’m not going to ask for transport. Lots of rat terriers in the midwest, southeast and California…..
Oh Sue, I wish you were here in OH right now. The Crawford County Humane Society just received 14 young rat terriers and will be receiving more, as a local breeder became overwhelmed and asked for help. Acccording to the shelter, they are lovable animals that enjoy being carried, have been given their shots and are only $70 to adopt, though you do have to show proof of tags and spaying or neutering in an agreed upon amount of time. Good luck with your hunt for the perfect companion for you and Bridget.
I think $300 is a bit steep too. You might want to look at one of the smaller rescues in AZ, maybe in a town like Why or the like. Of course if the doggie is the right one, the price is the right one too 🙂
Nina
Hi, Nina,
I have checked some of the smaller towns. I’m finding they usually have pit bulls (which have the sweetest faces, but not a good choice for us) and chihuahuas. A few Australian Shepherds. I have to keep looking until I find the right one!
If you are checking Petharbor and Petfinder, they are the best places to see the most dogs in the area. However, large public shelters don’t always get all their dogs onto the websites. Maricopa County provides shelter services for most of the cities as well as unincorporated Maricopa County. It might be worth a visit to their shelters to see if anything catches your eye.
Most shelters here in the SF Bay Area charge a nominal adoption fee plus the cost of the alteration or a flat fee around $100. Southern California and the Central Valley shelters have a lot of the smaller, multi-color terriers like Bridget and Spike. Prices are similar. Alteration is required for shelter adoptions in California, so the price is included one way or another.
More local to you would be Arizona Small Dog Rescue in the Phoenix area. I know someone that donates supplies for them and has a high opinion of their adoption matching. Again, worth a look, although they are pricey.
I do not recommend Craigslist for adopting pets. We have a problem here with stolen and sick dogs being sold on Craigslist. In addition, people with dogs with issues aren’t always truthful about those issues. They often will kick the can down the road by using Craigslist and let the adopter deal with the problem.
The right one is out there, waiting for you….
Hi, Another Reader,
Welcome to my blog! Thanks for the advice and information. I did notice that southern California seems to have more of the type of terrier I prefer. (Reader edlfrey pointed me in that direction.) I think I checked Arizona Small Dog Rescue… will look again.
As I wrote above, we will have to leave the Phoenix area soon. Our time here is running out and we need to find an inexpensive camp where it’s warm!
I have followed your blog for a couple of years, but never commented. Waved at you from I-10 when you were camped at Dome Rock Road – was that November 2013?
Don’t try to search just by breed an Petharbor and Petfinder. You might miss a great dog. Shelter staff and volunteers are usually overwhelmed and often make mistakes. Some of the smaller shelters don’t have the resources to post on Petfinder and Petharbor is only for those shelters that use the Chameleon inventory tracking software.
Often the shelter volunteers will post the animals on a Facebook page. For example, there are two adorable rat terrier and r.t. mix girls on the Los Banos Volunteers for Animals Facebook page right now. One is about to have a $600 surgery to fix a broken leg. the cost of which was raised from their followers. Too far for you to adopt, but a lot of the smaller, poorly funded shelters and their volunteers use Facebook.
Stop by Petsmart and Petco if there are any near your camps. They usually host adoption events on weekends. Talk to the rescues and shelter volunteers at the adoption fairs and they can point you in the right direction to find what you want.
Most shelters and rescues will want you to bring Bridget to meet any dog you are considering before you adopt. Insuring compatibility reduces returns and is less stressful for everyone.
Looking forward to the unveiling of the new crew member soon!
I can’t remember when we were last at Dome Rock. It’s getting so our camps and when we were there are running together. Good thing I have a blog to help me!
Oh gosh, bringing Bridget will ruin our chances for sure. She can make a terrible impression if the mood hits her.
I don’t do Facebook so that isn’t a resource for me to find a dog. I found a humane society in Yuma that has adoption days at Petco… That may work out well for us. We’re headed that way anyway…
Happy 26th Sue and Bridget!
$300 is average for a dog, who is not senior, special needs, or an animal hard to adopt out, such as cat, a Pittie, or a black animal. Smaller dogs command the most. It doesn’t matter if they are mixed or not. As a matter of fact some pure breds, such as those with a lot of health problems are sometimes hard to adopt. Cocker Spaniel comes to mind. Pugs come to mind.
Anyway, we paid that much for one of our Chihuahuas. However, her puppy who we also adopted was only $75 bc I had to do all the other stuff myself. The tattoo ID, the spaying, and so on.
And yes, that price will include the chip, bc all reputable rescues chip their animals, in case they go missing. Also, they all have a contract that if you can’t care for them anymore, you’re required to take them back to the rescue. So they’ll have their own chips on them.
If you want to go much cheaper, but still rescue….go to the County. They are all doing $20 specials right now. That’s the best deal going. Plus, County usually is not as strict about who they adopt to. I’m thinking some rescues may not like that you don’t have a “fenced yard,” which is always a requirement for dogs at all rescues.
Many rescues arbitrarily turn people down. And it’s usually a subjective reason. Not much you can do, when that happens.
I have a lot of experience in rescue, and if you want to seriously go looking for a new crew member while your here PM me and I’d be glad to help.
Hi, Cindy,
Interesting comment. Yes, I’ve always done well going to a county shelter for my dogs. Spike and Bridget came from two different county shelters. Neither cost more than $100 (a number of years ago) and they were fixed and had their shots (I added the micro-chipping later.).
You’re right about the difficulty I will encounter if I try to adopt through a rescue organization.
Thanks for the offer for help.
You will find a great dog…mine just walk into my life–my latest Casey is THE BEST LITTLE DOG but he is on the older side…his face all white with age, but when its time to walk a mile he is right there and full of energy he is in good health as far as I can tell! $300 does seem high I think the shelter here in our town, it goes for about $50 to adopt a dog. BUT more and more for profit rescues are popping up…why not try looking online at the local dog shelters…I imagine a dog in that situation is more likely to be up against the time wall and you would be providing the gift of life as well as getting the gift of unconditional love that all animals give.
Hi,, Sondra,
I see that many of the local dog shelters, small town shelters, and county shelters are no longer posting adoptable dogs at their websites. They refer you to petfinder or petharbor which I check frequently.
Oh, it would be much easier if the dog destined to pick up Spike’s mantel would walk into our campsite with a tail-wag and pleasant disposition, ready to be loved, taken on adventures, and catapulted into RVSue fame. Haha!
HRH HRR or HPR…..Bridget says quit with the acronyms….and get cooking! What a special holiday supper!
Never thought of the blog as a Christmas card but you’re absolutely right! How neat is that? Beats stuffing the cards in the levelor blinds!
Bridget looks great….sporting that beautiful lavender sweater!
Hmm…the addition to the crew…Ya haven’t given up any clues as to a boy or a girl! I say let Bridget select! Sniff butt accompanied with a curled up lip- nope. Sniff butt with no curled lip- yeppers!
In regards to the cost….Ya can’t put a price on happiness and the joy s/he will bring to you and Bridget.
Hi,, Cinandjules,
I can tell you right now what Bridget’s reaction will be toward any dog I try to bring into our family. She will snarl and snap until she realizes it won’t make any difference…. That’s the way she treats most visitors.
Oh no! Snarl AND SNAP? Yikes! She’ll realize this visitor is staying for awhile! Heh heh. Then it’s all about establishing the pecking order!
I think I mentioned once before how I had up to 7 dogs at a time at my house in Georgia when fostering. All kinds of dogs… They always got along. Not one fight. I’ll set Bridget straight, if need be. She’ll adapt.
You are the pack leader!
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Thank you, George. I wish the same for you!
I have done some work on this issue and have also adopted dogs from both rescues and the local humane society. I would recommend a humane society over a rescue — but neither all rescues nor all humane societies are the same. There are good and bad for both. You can possibly inquire at the state division of consumer protection to check the histories and inspections of the shelter or rescue, if the state you are adopting from has a dog seller licensing law. If the state you are adopting in has one, the rescue/shelter probably has to post its most recent inspection onsite. (Not necessarily online.) I’m lucky, our local humane society is great. But I would be more careful with the rescues. Especially if you are not in a state with regulation (though regulation is hardly a cure-all).
Hi, Linda,
After reading the comments here, including yours, I’m leaning toward a local humane society or county shelter. I think I’d have a better chance of being approved. Thanks for sharing the info you’ve gathered from experience.
For what it is worth, I have 3 dogs Tuff (the Rat Terrier – who drives me nuts but I love dearly), Daisy (My Jack russel mix – adopted for $350) and, Gaby (chihuahua extraordinare). All are special, Tuff and Gaby are “pure breds” Daisy I adopted – had seen a pup on line which is what I went to get (drove 2 hours) to find it had been adopted out and she brought out this little puppy instead that was nothing at all like what I thought I wanted but she licked me and I was sold (I try not to get near any adoptable dog – I am such a sucker). It seems that adoption fees for “private” adoptions is pretty pricey, and you are probably right it is a way for them to make money, but the bottom line is they are providing homes for these pups, and use the money to care for them as well as the other pets they have. I thought the same as you and finally decided the same as I do if I give money to a charity or individual, you never know what it is being used for but you give with good intentions, and in this case if you get a pup to love and provide it a home… well win, win… BTW mine range from 7 lbs to 20 lbs and the main difference is you just have to be a little more careful around Owls, Hawks, Eagles, Coyotes ( well Coyotes whether 12 or 20 probably wouldn’t matter) but other than that the little one is just easier to pick up than the others – and she can hold her own tooo, quite the little diva… What ever decision you make I just wanted to wish you and Bridget a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Hi, Tammy,
You bring up a consideration that is important for me, the way I live and handle my dogs. A tiny dog would not be a good choice because of the flying predators. I also want a dog who can handle hikes on rough terrain. Even some of the campgrounds have rough gravel. I’ve been fortunate with Spike and Bridget… both came with tough pads.
Your canine trio sounds delightful. I’m sure they make your days more interesting! Happy holidays to you, too, Tammy.
Yeah, the chihuahua is great on rough terrain…. if you carry her, and she doesn’t last long without someone picking her up and at 7 lbs that is doable, but a 12 lb would be a bit heavy and small dogs are very exposed to birds of prey and also easily injured by other dogs even a little nip can be serious. I wouldn’t be set on a specific breed and just go look and see what you find… just go with your head first and with a “this is what I need attitude”, you almost have to be very business about it and if one strikes you then listen to your heart. It is way to easy to become drawn emotionally… trust me I know. I love my Daisy but she has knee issues and is not built as “strong”, had they not handed her to me I would have backed away – don’t get me wrong Daisy is absolutely a delight every day and I would not trade her – Tuff loved her from the moment I got her which was amazing and still does, and when I got Gaby, Daisy acts like she is her puppy and Tuff does to… mostly. But I do have to be very careful with Daisy’s weight and she did not turn out like I expected – granted she was a puppy so you never know. I am sure you will find the right family member for your crew, just go look…
I wouldn’t mind having to carry a little one. However, if I’m going to continue showing photos of our exciting hikes in progress, I need a hand free to hold the camera. 🙂
Yes Sue I remember when everyone sent cards and we got real creative displaying them on a door or wall. I still got a handful of cards but I didn’t send any. I’m just happy the entire Christmas festivities are over. I wound up spending this time with my pups and shared a Christmas dinner at the clubhouse where I live. It was very pleasant. Looking forward to taking my EZ trailer to the woods near Brooksville to camp for New Years Eve and entire weekend.
You were talking about hand writing letters and I have a difficult time when I do have to write someone a note. I still have letters from my mom and her sisters years ago communicating via the mail and they were long letters… several pages.
those days are gone
Hope you find a wonderful new camp. Love the pictures of the birds. I enjoy painting humming birds but right now I’m into painting Goddess’s with beads on their headdresses.
sending a holiday hug
Debbie
Hi, Debbie,
My dang computer is being persnickety tonight. I wrote you a reply and zap! It’s gone.
Anyway…. Have a great weekend in the woods near Brooksville, which — if I remember correctly — is near you in Florida.
You make me want to get back into painting. I dropped it a long time ago. Never was very good, but it is an engaging past time, if nothing more.
Hug to you,too!
I wanted to add my 2 cents in. I say get that little pup and show em how wonderful life is with a mom like you and a big sister like Bridget. Being 12lbs is perfect for living in the Casita. I have Lily who is 5lbs and Rosie is 15lbs. They are perfect sizes for me. By the way Rosie had her surgery last Thursday and the doctor said he took out around a hundred stones. Today she is running around like nothing happened. She gets her stitches out in a few more days. Go on get your new little crew member. Can’t wait to see him or her? It warms my heart to think about you and a new baby.
I’m going to pass on that pup. The more I thought about it, the more I realized how difficult it would be to follow-up. I have to leave here and there isn’t anywhere around Phoenix where I care to camp.
Great news about Rosie! “Running around like nothing happened”… exactly what we prayed for!
thank you Sue God bless you
Wonderful news!
Hi Sue and Bridget. I hope you 2 had a wonderful Christmas, certainly looks as though you had a peaceful one. Hope I’m not too late for the greeting cards; I still like to send and receive them. Happy Holidays and Happy Travels. Oh, Bridget looks sharp in her sweater!
Hi, GypsyPurl,
Nice to hear from you again. Thanks for the wishes!
I think I would pass on the $300 adoption.
Pick Me! Pick Me!
I’m Tina Fey! I’m about a year old and a Rat Terrier mix. I think I was given the name Tina Fey because many dogs are named Tina and I’m not just any Tina. It’s not like anyone’s asking for my autograph or anything even though I’m very pretty with my interesting black and white coloring. My pointy ears complement my coloring and make me look very alert all the time–which I am, by the way. I’m also a sweet, loving and lovable dog. I’m looking for my forever home where I can be the great companion I was meant to be. If you’re looking for someone like me, please come by and visit. We could be great companions together!
The adoption fee for dogs is $150.00. This fee covers the cost of spay/neutering, vaccinations, fecal testing, & micro-chipping. She is still listed as available.
I’ll be checking for more as time permits. Good luck, I hope the right dog finds you!
Hi, Ed,
I think YOU should go get Tina Fey and bring her home. Give Patches a friend. 🙂
Actually I had a male in mind. Bridget needs a guy around. I forget where Tina Fey is located. … somewhere in California. I’ll look up the other comment you made about her. I did look at her. She’s a fine-looking rat terrier. That’s a very reasonable adoption fee.
No can do. Patches says I’m a one dog man even if I wanted a second one.
I figured that. 😉
Pet Rescue in Coachella, Ca… That was it!
Glad that you n’ the RHR Bridget had a great Christmas Sue. $ 300.00 is too high , like all say, some Rescue place’s I’ve seen are set to 1/4 that , with shots + neutered. Well it’s been real Windy and Cold here for a week and I hope We have enough propane to last till Wednesday, 33 degrees this Morn out and 42 in till I lit the heater at 06:15. The gauge on the tank is 1/8″ in the green from the yellow mark. This is our first time in Winter not using a wood stove, and our first using LPG. ,,,,,me
Hi, Rusty,
It’s hard for me to tell how much propane you have left, based on your green-to-yellow gauge. My tanks don’t have a gauge. And I don’t know how big your tank is.
It would be good if you could eventually have two tanks and get yourself in a position where, when a tank goes empty, you can switch over to the full tank and then get the empty one filled. Propane has a way of surprising me… It’s a lot easier with two tanks. Gee, I hope you don’t run out and also that you have some warmer temperatures soon.
Well Sue, the tank is a 20Lb. which is supposed to hold 4.5 gallons and the Wave 3 folks say it burns 1/8 of a gallon or pound in 8 hours. Sorry, I really didn’t pass math in School at all, all I know how to do is add, subtract and multiply. I have a calculator, but I’m un able to figure fractions to a point, then I get lost. Two pints = 1 qrt. and 4 qrts. = 1 gallon, Right?
If I understand what you meant, the Wave 3 folks are saying that one gallon propane = 64 hours.
64 hours X 4.5 gallons = 288 hours worth of Wave 3 heat
That sounds like a lot! Of course, you use propane for cooking, too.
Yes, 2 pints = 1 qt. and 4 qts = 1 gallon.
The 4.5 gallons is only for the heater and I use the thro away small 1Lb. tanks for cooking which one last me 2 weeks and the last time I had the 20 lb tank filled was the 15th of this month, so maybe the gage is off. but, it only took a gallon to fill it up and the gage was a little more than where it was this morning. AND thanks for the answer on the math, like I said your my Favorite Teacher ,,,,,,,Sue. ,,,,Rusty
You’re welcome, Rusty.
Well Sue, I quit guessing And now I have one more 20Lb. tank. My friend, Stit, came this Morn with a Early New Years Gift From the 1st Platoon, Alfa Company, 2nd Brigade, 9th Infantry. Thanks , Guys, who are left. God Bless you all. ,,,,,me
Wow! That’s fantastic, Rusty! What a great bunch of guys. That definitely is the perfect gift.
OH ,,,I usually run the heater 2 hrs. in the Morn and 3 hrs. at Night, purity much on low.
Using the figures from the reply below, if you use your heater for 5 hours each day, a tank of 4.5 gallons should last you for about 57 days (if you don’t use propane for anything else).
288 hours divided by 5 hours a day = 57.6 days
If I’ve made a mistake, someone will surely correct me! 🙂
About what fraction of the 4.5 pound tank is left? Can you tell from the gauge?
I worked at a local animal shelter for many years and $300 is a fair price for all the money it costs to: rescue, clean, vet, shelter, feed and keep the heat and lights on. We were always trying to raise money to keep the shelter open and operating. A lot of the money went to vet bills but a least we knew we were adopting out healthy well looked after animals. If you get an unhealthy animal it can cost you that much for one vet visit.
You make a good point, Willow. Wherever I find a dog that might be right for us, I know not to make a decision based on emotion. I’ll check the dog thoroughly for good health and soundness, as well as temperament.
A follow up to my previous comment.
Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League in Gunnison, CO has a young male Joey. Neutered and shots current – adoption fee $150.
You want me to haul ourselves up to Gunnison? At this time of year? Is there an evil subplot to your dog-finding mission, Ed? 🙂
Okay… I’ll go look at Joey.
Oh my, Ed! He looks just like a young Spike! Darn! So far away….
My intent was to demonstrate how the $300 fee was too much, that you could find suitable dogs for $150.
However, if Joey seems like a possible fit in your household I’m sure there is a way to get him. There are organizations like http://operationroger.rescuegroups.org/info/contact that do free pet transfers.
Do you know Chinle? She would also be a very good source for help.
Forgive me, Ed, for suspecting your motive . . . 🙂
Thanks for the pet transfer link. Although I did choose the BLT sight unseen at a commitment of over $18,000, I don’t think I could choose a dog without meeting him/her first. A photograph and description aren’t enough for me to determine whether a dog is the right one.
Petsmart or other adoption day is a great idea. You could take Bridget and see if she approves. Many rescue groups use this as an outlet for their rescues.
Yeah, I have to do what’s easy. Remember Janie? I adopted her from a rescue group stationed at a Petsmart in Georgia.
Do have to add that many rescue groups get their dogs from spca’s. They are usually on the euthanasia list and are rescued so they can find a family and have a forever home. It would be nice to think that shelters are “no kill”, but so many, many aren’t. Our last rescue had one hour to live before he was taken out of the SPCA. he is a real daddy’s boy and a sweetheart. Don’t want to turn this into a rescue group vs shelter topic, just want everyone to keep an open mind. Where ever you, or anyone, gets a pup, if it saves a life, it is a right choice.
Yes, that’s true. I believe one of the reasons the spca’s don’t have a prime selection (dogs are old, black, unpopular breed) is because rescue groups grab the adoptable ones quickly. I suspect there are some people who call themselves a rescue group and they pick up the very adoptable dogs and turn around and sell them quickly for a much higher fee than the spca’s.
When I volunteered for a rescue organization, I would go to the local kill shelter and purposefully pick a dog to foster that wasn’t obviously “cute.” One dog, I remember, was a ratty-looking wire-haired terrier whose time was almost up. People passed this dog by. I took the dog home, bathed her, gave her a haircut, put a bow on her collar, took her to an adoption day, and people were lining up for her!
Edlfrey’s last comment made me laugh.Joey?I pictured you with a kangaroo …this page is enough to make me fall asleep soon counting black and white dogs(besides the two in bed with me every night.When you fall asleep contentedly cuddling the one you have,sleep well ,and have sweet dreams knowing yours (about a new family member) will coming true at the perfect time-they really always do
Gosh, weather… I took a look at Joey and he looks very much like Spike did at a young age, maybe without as much attitude. I admit I thought of a kangaroo, too.
Cuddle up with your furry friends and sleep well . . .
Good morning Sue,I,too,found Joey’s resemblance to Spike a bit of an emotional breath-catcher.Can’t wait to see your response to the commenter below describing you as suffering fools gladly when referring to those who participate here.Hope your coffee’s good,mine is ,which will help me stay tuned.Enjoy 🙂
Good morning, weather,
Thinking about Joey, Spike’s look-alike, maybe it would be best for our new crew member to look different than Spike. I might be tempted to make comparisons between the two, and that could be less than positive for the newcomer. I have to let go . . . .
Perking a pot of coffee right now for a second cup. I read comments earlier this morning over the first cup, then went back to bed. Too cold in the BLT to write replies. I didn’t bother turning on the heater because, as is typical of the desert, the sun warms us soon enough… and it has!
From here ,friend,it’s obvious that you did far more than simply let go,you lovingly made beautiful his going…what remains is to let Healing help complete the awesome journey you’ve been using all the strength,hope and many gifts within you to stride forward in.
As to comparisons your natural appreciative way of treasuring all creation makes you value each one for their own best ,making each one feel and be seen as special.No temptation will change that,it’s who and what you are…Not that I find any candidate for your next dog preferable-you’ll know, being led,what to do as always.Happy to hear of the sun warming you!
and thank you- for your beautiful demonstration of why my confidence in your valuing all is justified- by your response( I’d earlier expressed interest in) below.As always,I’m proud of you,Sue.
It’s nice to have my effort acknowledged and appreciated. 🙂
weather,
To me, your writing is the most astute, intuitive, perceptive and thoughtful here. I have failed in my actions if, in any way, you have been rebuffed. Your notation shows just how caring and protective you are towards all who contribute to Sue’s most excellent conversation. It has been a lifeline for me in a group of many. Your gifts here, from the start, have garnered a fanclub of most, if not all, readers. I humbly include myself.
Honestly nothing you wrote made feel personally rebuffed whatsoever.You’re kind to be concerned that it might have.My keen,and admittedly a bit concerned,interest was that peace and appreciation remain and be spread here,exactly as Sue so deftly accomplished.Thank you for each compliment in your note to me,I’m pleased to add a welcome to one more I’ll enjoy feeling protective of-you gal 🙂
Flying predators are a concern for small dogs. Chloe is 8 lbs and I never have her off-leash for that reason. I think they have a large county humane society here in Tucson.
We had 67 degrees on Xmas. With sun. Very nice. I had a very pleasant visit and dinner with friends from my coffee group. One of them has offered to work on my computer, which is all gummed up with malware and other crud.
I’m in my last week of eating. Liquid diet starts January 1. Gonna go have some ice cream!
Seeing you appear here, Ginger, reminds me of your message to Pauline, written under a previous post. I remember you asked how she is doing since her gastric sleeve surgery. I’ll email her and let her know you asked.
I replied to DesertGinger’s comment but it was a day or so later. She probably didn’t see it.
DesertGinger…I am praying for you. The liquid diet for 2 weeks is not easy but you can do it. AND you will be surprised at the weight you will lose then! Makes for a good start. We have talked about the pain and the limitations as first but you can do this. As I look back, I know I would do it again!! I have been a bad girl though and have been grazing on everything sweet that comes near me since Thanksgiving. Can’t eat more than 3/4 cup at a time but it has not been healthy food….it has been really GOOD tasting food though 🙂 I have gained 5 lbs which proves even with only 15% of my original stomach, it is possible to gain. You are going to feel so much better in just a few months…you are going to have so much energy…be able to do things that your weight has been preventing you from doing. I am so excited for you!!!! You are going to enjoy “the New You” as well as the “New Year” Congratulations and please keep me posted.
I, too, had a gastric bypass procedure 13 years ago. I lost 140# & have been very happy that I did it. I didn’t get skinny but my quality of life improved drastically as did my improved health. It was not easy, especially at first, but after the initial trials I achieved a comfortable lifestyle. Now, at 67, I take no medication & have maintained my weight loss. Glad I did it.
I have lost 62 of the 80 lbs I was hoping to lose and my doctor has taken me off 3 of my meds and cut my blood pressure med in half. I can’t believe how easily I can move now and the stamina that I have. I stood in the “return” line at Walmart for 1/2 hour with NO problems. Last year that would have been impossible for me. Kudoos to Kgdan!!!!
Merry Christmas Sue & Bridget!!!
As far as Rescues are concerned, I’ve worked with several German Shepherd Dog rescues over the years. I know they put a “steep” price on adoptions because they want to be sure the “Adopter” has some “skin in the game”.
Needless to say, they want the dog to always go & STAY in a good “forever” home.
One of the ways they try to ensure that for the dog is to have a high adoption fee.
I’m sure you’ll find your new crew member soon!!! I’m so proud that you will be saving a life!
Lynn
I understand what you’re saying. Dog care takes money.
Merry Christmas to you, too, Lynn!
I wasn’t paying attention and posted a reply to today’s post on yesterday’s comments. Oh well. Hope all have a great new year.
I fixed the quote how you wanted it. Happy New Year to you, too!
All this rescue talk made me inspired to tell you about my latest rescue critters…eleven of them!
We were just approved to be the new home for ten hens and a rooster…the hens were formerly part of a caged bird egg operation, they are recycled after one season of egg production, usually soup makers buy them..but these birds were rescued and are coming to our place instead of the soup can.
My flock is aging out, my old rooster just died at twelve years old.. And my hens are over eight now…they slowly die of old age, I never eat our friends.
When you consider the price of purchasing chicks, feeding them six months before the begin producing eggs, the rescue price is a huge bargain!
Pretty entertaining reading about the Animal Place in Grassvalley, Ca..
The lady that I was interviewed by told me these chickens never feel the ground under their feet until they are rescued..wow… The rooster is going to be a surprise, know nothing about him, just that he is gentle, boy, he will be coming to the spa with a harem!
Here at my place it WILL feel like a chicken spa, lots of room to roam, plenty of organic food, bugs, dust bathes…secure house at night…Good trade I think, eggs in return for giving them a safe life. Plus..chickens are such entertaining birds…chicken TV!
This past fall in a state run campground along the Blue Ridge Parkway A lady had her van open and 2 crates on the ground and out came her 2 pet chickens to scamper around her campsite…I asked if they were pets she said YES! I was amazed they didnt try to fly away or anything silly they just scratched around in the vicinity of her van, the love was flowing in both directions;o)
Great anecdote, Sondra. Love is where we find it, and where we send it. 🙂
Hi, Lee,
I can tell you are going to have loads of fun watching and tending your flock of hens and rooster. I’m very pleased that you told us about your new pets. Many of us think of chickens as not worth bothering about (only good chicken is the one on our plate). The love and caring you have for them reminds us that all creatures are precious.
I love it when someone mentions a place and I can remember being there and can see it in my mind. I stopped at a diner in Grass Valley, CA… a very small town. Here’s the link for anyone interested in reading about an organization that gives chickens a chance at life beyond the confines of a very small cage.
Helping Hens Rescue
Lee, when our girls did 4-H years ago, we lived in town but decided to get chickens from spring till late summer, when they would be sold at the fair. We were surprised at how tame they were once they got used to our little yard. My hubby made a stand so the girls could put them on it, smooth their feathers and talk to them, taught they to sit motionless on command (“POSE”) was the word. Learned that from some 4-H materials I think. So we could turn them loose in our back yard, and when we needed to pen them (for their protection) when we went to town, etc. we only had to yell out: “POSE!” and the ones who had been worked with would stand motionless….you went over picked them up and put them away. We never knew they could be trained well and be such nice pets.
Good evening Sue,
Happy to see you had a nice Christmas!! Ours was good as well. Little sad visiting mom in the nursing home for her first Christmas. But thankful that she’s still with us.
I see you got credit for my pet thermometer. I actually only looked at it. But apparently the amazon gods felt I should have it… It arrived and so now I am the proud owner. So thankful it’s an ear thermometer 😉 I ordered so much this year, was so pleasant to not have to fight the crowded stores ( only a couple times)
I myself got a new electric blanket and have decided I will stay in bed until June!! 🙂
Asia had a blast opening gifts. She loves that part. Not so much of what’s inside, but the fact momma let’s her intentionally make a mess lol
Excited to see the next home grounds.
Safe travels. Peace and happiness to you and all blogorinos
Mert and asia
Ps. I’m so excited on the new baby. Congrats!! I know you all will find EACH OTHER”. I know you don’t want to have it brought to you. But one of my friends here does transports, and they set up legs of the transportation. Some animals being transported as far as Californian from Kentucky. It’s a thougt. Especially if it is the right baby!!
Congrats. I am so excited to meet Mr. New Crew!!!
Hi, Mert,
I love the way you describe Asia opening up Christmas gifts, having permission to make a mess. Our pets brings us entertainment and laughs simply by being themselves.
About the pet thermometer… The purchase should not have been completed at check-out if you “only looked at it.” I assume it was on the preview page before you clicked to complete the transaction. I know one has to be careful when changing one’s mind about an item, to make sure it’s been deleted from the order before finishing.
You can put the thermometer and the packing slip inside the box and send it back. I don’t think there will be a charge. Sorry for that….
The electric blanket sounds nice. I may try a 12-volt heating pad. Connie (Connie and Mugsy) really likes hers.
Thanks sue, I think I will keep it. I thought I had deleted it. But I guess not. But not a bad thing to have around just incase my princess spikes a fever. Right now she is digging a hole to china. Shake my head. Always something lol.
I think after you delete an item you have to click on a save button or something. I remember that messed me up once a long time ago.
Dear Miss Sue,
Could you please help me with something I’m having a hard time wrapping my mind around mind? Many of the Blogorinos that state they are big fans and say they enjoy the plethora of comments, seem to me to have not actually read either the current post or any of your comments, present or past. You have, in multiple posts and comments, told us and showed us that all animals, especially dogs, are at a pinnacle of your ethos. You have told us about your fostering rescue dogs and going way out of your way to find Spike and then Bridget and other wards you invited into your household. You have shared with us how much effort and research you do with everything that you care deeply about. Ever since you have let us know that you have begun to take applications for a new crew member, you let us know the many resources you’ve employed to secure the best match possible.
If I’ve understood your concern about the price being asked from this particular venue, it’s not about the price, rather, you question the situation. You have conveyed you prefer not to patronize any outfit that SELLS pets for profit only. When you do find your new team member in the right circumstance, from what you have mentioned, you probably won’t bat an eye at the fee. Your concerns about all aspects of bringing in an addition to your family are appreciated and further show how serious you are in this endeavor.
I am in awe of your acumen with the ease and breadth bending the internet to your will. You have displayed tact and humanity toward commenters that totally astounds me. The “bag of rice” theme seems to show up at least once in the comments for every post. You have typed your parameters clearly and fully, yet you are advised to follow different directives. HOW DO YOU DO IT? You seem to suffer fools gladly on line more so than you do in person. I wish I could do either. Alas, I am flawed. Forgive me. I guess, for me, it seems either disrespectful or bad manners to disregard what has been well noted and interject a non sequitur. Perhaps one should acknowledge these transgressions as gifts of a humorous sort. Is your patience a gift or does it come from many a lesson? The multitudes of caring and helpful comments are, for sure, well worth the time you put into this blog. It blows one’s mind to think of the total life experience that is available through only this site. Yet, sometimes it seems like someone walked into an ongoing conversation about the universe and tells you that a new set of brake calipers is all that is needed. How do you keep from not snapping your head off from the whiplash? : )
To respond to A gal in Maple Valley, WA: Sue has lived in the South long enough to adapt to our ways…for our elderly or otherwise challenged kin folks or friends…we’ve learned to smile and say “Bless her heart” at the end of our sentences. Besides, what difference does it make. Sue doesn’t strike me as a long-suffering woman…if she doesn’t like something she’ll darn well let you know in no uncertain terms. Personally, I like all the blogerinos and enjoy reading their comments, repeat questions/comments or not.
I can’t speak for others but I’ve apparently got a touch of CRS. Sue graciously repeats herself when I forget something, which I admit can be often.
Cat Lady
Hi, Cat Lady,
I can see where the comment by “A gal in Maple Valley, WA” may be a bit irritating with regular, sincere, and often helpful readers of this blog. I don’t think that was her purpose in writing, rather it is the fall-out of asking very directly how I manage comments that are redundant. I hope to respond to her comment in a way that will explain why people often repeat the messages of others.
I like how you characterize me… not “long-suffering” and able to “darn well let you know in no uncertain terms” when I don’t like something. I take that as a fine compliment! Thank you.
Never concern yourself — and I say this to all my readers — about the possibility you are asking a question that’s been asked before, maybe several times, or that you are giving advice, information, or an opinion that others have already expressed. I’m happy that you write at all!
It took me a minute to figure out CRS… Hmm… Cat Rebellion Syndrome… uh…Can’t Really Say…. no, that’s not it…… Aha!…
Can’t Remember Syndrome?
I think it’s Can’t Remember Shit
Hi, A gal in Maple Valley, WA,
Nice to see you here! I can tell from your comment that you have read a lot, if not all, of my blog and many of the comments. Thank you for that.
Your comment is, without a doubt, the most expertly crafted rant, if I may call it that, I have ever read in my entire life. Kudos! I laughed several times and I thought I would split my side when I got to the punchline about the “new set of brake calipers.” I’m choking on my coffee as I write this. Hilarious! I’m sure there are many more laughs to come whenever I recall that line. Oh, and “whiplash,” oh my, somebody, help! 🙂
Okay, seriously . . . . There are reasons why the “bag of rice ‘theme'” appears. I doubt you need to be told all that I’m going to write, maybe none of it, but as a person once told me, I “like to park the car in the garage” whenever given a topic upon which to expound.
1) Lots of times people don’t read all the post or none of the comments before they write their own comment. This doesn’t bother me at all. I try to keep in mind that people come to my blog from all types of situations. They are at different points in the up-and-down journey of life, they possess a wide variety of personalities, they are influenced by the issues they carry, some have the spiritual maturity of a radish and others commune with God, and so on. Reading a slew of comments might not be what they want or are able to do at the time.
When reading comments I also try to remember that people don’t have to read my blog, let alone take the time to write something. People come here in various moods, looking for escape, relaxation, entertainment, laughs, information, inspiration for their dreams, something to criticize (fortunately the latter is rare), whatever.
Their emotions when they write range from euphoria at finally realizing their dream of living full-time on the road to depression caused by heavy burdens, poor health, piercing grief, long-term sorrow, disappointments, obligations, and so forth. Also, of course, people may be too busy to read all the comments, don’t give a hoot what anyone else wrote, or they have dropped into my blog very recently.
2) Another reason people repeat questions and comments is due to the way the comment section of this blog operates, including the timing of my replies.
For example, Person A at 5 p.m. asks why I put mayo on my battery connections (making this up, I don’t!) Persons B, C, D and E comment about other things. Person F at 7 p.m. also wants to know why I put mayo on my battery connections. At 8 p.m. I open up my blog and reply to Person A, explaining why the mayo. I also explain the mayo to Person F.
Stay with me now….
Well, Persons G, H, I, and so on, look at Person F and wonder, “What a lazy moron. He/she didn’t even READ RVSue’s reply to Person A! RVSue already explained about the mayo!”
This can occur several times under one post (and, in fact, has). 🙂
To answer your question about my patience… I probably don’t have any more than the average person who has lived as long as I have. The key to patience with people is understanding why people do what they do.
Anyway, I’d better stop before I drive the car through the back wall of the garage. Thanks for an entertaining comment, for the kindness and sincerity behind your words toward me, and for giving me a topic to go on and on about.
I appreciate the compliment on my blog … “It blows one’s mind to think of the total life experience that is available through only this site.” I like that!
This is the most mature and thoughtful response. You are an astute and kind observer of people.
Sue,
Yeah….what you said. If I have contributed a little comic relief, enjoy. Thank-you for taking the time to enlighten (me) further on how your heart has room for all. You seem to have an extra eye for seeing what people are trying to convey even if sometimes daftly done.
O.K…..I’m on my way to your campsite to spend the winter visiting you and I’ll pick up all the pets I find along the way for you. Mostly cows and snakes. What’s that? Your Mexico visa finally arrived and you’ve just now applied for all Central and South American countries? Oh well………
Don’t forget the rice!
White CHINESE rice!
You are amazing RVSue. Your comment was amazing also!
Aw, shucks . . . .
Sue, how exciting that you are getting closer to a new crew member! I cannot wait to see who ends up making the cut. My Havanese, Picasso, is about 12 pounds at this point and I know he won’t have any difficulty with the full-time lifestyle once we actually get out there in less than two months. However, I also know there are others of the same breed that probably would have difficulty. As you know, it really does depend on the individual dog. Picasso also has long hair which will require upkeep on the road. No doubt that isn’t the best scenario but, hey, he’s here already and he gets to come with me, of course! I am getting a new, portable grooming table for him on Sunday for Christmas so he’s all good! Best part – he doesn’t seem to want to chase anything! I think a squirrel could come up and smack him in the face with his tail and he still wouldn’t bother.
I have a question for you, Sue (or any of your readers who can provide a viewpoint). I’m still in the middle of downsizing. I didn’t realize just how much more work this is in comparison to plain old packing. Today I came face to face with my suitcases. Anyway, my question – do you travel with a suitcase? I’m trying to figure out if I’ll even have room for one in storage beneath the coach. I’d go without one completely but have some concern if I have to fly some place (an emergency or something) and don’t have a suitcase. Any suggestions or thoughts? Thanks!
We haven’t “gone” yet, but I’ll give you my two cents on your question 🙂 I kept one smallish roller bag for just what you said – any necessary flight that might occur. I figure it will go in the “middle” of the large pass-through basement storage, and can easily hold seasonal clothes or an extra blanket for that rare overnight guest. Once we’re actually loading the rig I might change my mind, but for now it has made the final cut. Good luck with the downsizing – it is very liberating!!
Thanks guys. I’ll look to take a smaller wheeled suitcase as well as a duffel on top of it.
As much work as the downsizing part is, it is amazingly liberating! I’ve found that once I started it just gets easier and easier to let things go.
No hard sided suitcases. Duffel bags, maybe 2-3 of various sizes, roll up very small and are easily stored.
edfrey,
I only own soft sided suitcases so that’s a good start! I’ve got a variety of suitcases and duffels to choose from and will probably take a small wheeled suitcase as well as a duffel or two inside that. Thanks.
Enjoyed your comment about Picasso and loved the line “he’s here already and he gets to come with me, of course!” I wish you many happy adventures together.
I’ll let readers reply to your question about a suitcase.
Hi Deborah
I finally did bring a small suitcase with wheels for the very reason you stated. I have it filled with off season clothing. Yep, getting rid of all your “stuff” is a real test. I sold EVERYTHING I had in my 3200 sq. foot house and my 3 car garage with storage over it. I had 10 yard sales and a 2 week estate sale. I took the rest to a consignment shop. I haven’t missed a thing!!
Hi Krystina,
I wish I could have yard sales but I’m in an apartment building which makes everything so much more of a challenge. I looked into estate sales but no one would hold one in an apartment either so everything is about finding alternative methods.
For the longest time I debated getting rid of absolutely everything and decided that didn’t suit who I am. My goal is to keep things rather small in terms of storage. All the furniture is gone except for a bed and a desk that has little value to anyone since it had an accident during the last move. Storage shouldn’t be too outrageous at this point, nor should moving it. I hope to be able to use the RV with a trailer attached to actually move it when that time comes. Admittedly, there is a part of me that still feels that getting rid of it would have been so much easier! 🙂
Tootaloo was a lu-lu of a dog.
“Free Pups” unassuming sign near the summit of the Mariposa Pass.
“Walker Hound’ the Sierras hillbilly told me. I thought that meant they like to walk, not so much run.
The Buffalo Nickel Jugband was playing on the 8-Track —
“And I’ll Just Say Toodle-OO”
when she jumped aboard the vwbus.
Rand . . . You are a troubadour! 🙂
Hello from VA! I’m sitting here with my morning coffee and reading RVSUE. It always makes me smile to see you in my inbox first thing in the morning. I’d like to add my 2 cents about the new crew member. You are a very intuitive person. The right dog will come along and you will know him when you see him. I have two mid sized dogs…..both dropped at the top of our farm road. I love them dearly and they are my companions during my days as a farm manager. They come in at night and during nasty weather….and pretty much anytime they want. But I began thinking about a small dog who could go places with me and snuggle on my lap…ect. But boy were dogs like that expensive. Plus I am a rescue type person anyway. One day when I went to the Ford place for an oil change, I saw a lady sitting there with a tiny Chihuahua. Since I will talk to a rock, I struck up a conversation. Turns out that the woman was a “foster mom” and little Bella was up for adoption. I asked to hold her and we continued to talk. I just knew Bella was for me. I told “Val” that I’d like to adopt her. She laughed and said me and everyone else! I sighed and said that I would still like to be put on the list. We continued to talk….little did I know I was being interviewed….and then I left. Later that evening Val called. She told me that she had been telling the truth. There was a loooong line of people who wanted Bella….even her own son. They were all pushing her to make a decision but she just hadn’t found the person that she knew was a fit for Bella…..till now! She asked if we could fill out the papers over the phone instead of taking the time to mail back and forth and if I could give two references that she could speak with “now”. She called back later and said as far as she and the rescue was concerned, Bella was adopted ($100.00)! And to think, I just went there to get my oil changed and instead changed my life. BTW….Val had been running late and had to change her appointment. If she’d been on time, we would never have met. I believe you will know your dog the second you see it. With love from VA… MB, Hazel, Wyndy and Bella. 🙂 OH….and I almost forgot…..Bella said to tell you that small size doesn’t mean small energy. Her little legs carry her on walks with the bigger dogs all the time.
Hi, MB,
That’s quite a story! You and Bella were meant for each other. The woman was quite remarkable for waiting for the perfect person for the little pup in her care. Gee, that was the best oil change ever! 🙂
A MOST WONDERFUL DOG NAMED DAKOTA IS BEING FOSTERED AT A HOME IN QUEENS CREEK ARIZONA
THIS IS A RESCUE DOG-LOOK UP HER IN THE RESCUE SITE OF
http://www.azpawsandclaws.com/ I WENT OUT TO SEE HER FOSTER FAMILY AND I TRULY WANTED TO HAVE HER BUT DECIDED TO WAIT
AS MY BELOVED GREYHOUND I JUST HAD TO PUT DOWN—THE RESCUE ORGANIZATION ARE WONDERFUL -SUE YOU OWE IT TO YOURSELF AND BRIDGET TO GO OUT THERE AND SEE WHAT A WONDERFUL FAMILY SHE IS WITH AT THE MOMENT. AND HER OF COURSE. BERYL BREMEN
beryl bremen,
First, you need not SHOUT.
Second, RVSue has said that she is picky about what dog she wants and has further expressed a desire to have a small dog (about the size of Bridget). She has also said that she really likes Rat Terrier or Rat Terrier Mix dogs and is looking for a young male companion for Bridget.
Your suggested “Dakota” is described as a female Pointer / Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) of medium size with no age disclosed. Sorry, but your suggested crew member meets none of RVSue’s requirements. The only thing that “Dakota” has going for her is location, location, location.
so so sorry -hope i didnt ruin your day by shouting-i guess when 1 posts their 1st and last comment on here i should be aware of a few negative comments.
thank you for your input anyways.
Hi beryl,so sorry for your loss ,hope this difficult time soon feels easier.I also hope you won’t let this be your last comment.I’m sure Sue will extend a warm welcome when she finds you here.Until then I’ll just mention that Ed, a long timer here( with very informative helpful comments) at times uses dry humor/playful banter with some,cut and dry facts with others.At least use of that combination is how I read his reply. 🙂
Thanks, weather, for standing in for me before I could write my reply to beryl.
my pleasure
Hi, beryl,
Welcome to my blog! First let me offer my condolences over the passing of your dog. I recently lost my dog (last August, actually… seems recent to me), and I know how losing a dear pal can shake one’s world apart. I’m sorry you are hurting.
I interpret your all-caps message as an emotional plea on behalf of the dog you met and want to help. Ed is right– One of the etiquette rules of the internet is no caps because they are seen as shouting and not polite. Again… I assume you simply wanted to draw attention to the dog needing a home, so not something I’m going to get cranky about.
Don’t take offense at Ed’s comment. He is my resident “corrector.” This is a service he provides my blog, without pay, and has often fixed my mistakes and picked me up when I’ve fallen on my face in my writing.
I encourage you to take the time to become acquainted with my blog and the folks who gather here. As for Dakota, if she made that big of an impact on you, I don’t doubt she will be taken into someone’s heart and home.
My apologies first of all. I am fairly new here as well. And I understand the relationship with you and Ed (I suppose) but I found his reaction to this ladies comment that was directed at Sue very rude! And it’s not the first time I have felt this way either. I have been taken back by a few of his comments. So, maybe I should just stop reading the comment section. I do not feel it is jn need of a blog police. I am sorry sue, but yes it’s a little much from Ed
Safe travels to you. And peace and happiness to all
Mert
Isn’t it funny how different we all are! I quite enjoyed Ed’s spot-on, dry comment. He is just providing factual data. We all have such a tendency to want people to pad their comments with pretty filler words and to make things sound “nice”. Ed just doesn’t do that. I love it.
I am sorry if I offended anyone. And I do not want anything not expect anything paded. But for a first time comment. Not the warmest welcome.
Everyone has issues, including myself. Life is hard. I come here to relax and spend a peaceful evening. And dream of better places.
Hi, Mert,
I’m in a tough position here. I like you very much, I like DesertGinger very much, and I like Ed very much. I don’t want any of you to leave and I’m confident that many blogorinos feel the same way.
The three of you are very different. In fact, you’re probably the three best examples, when looked at together, of how different people can be.
I love Ginger’s enthusiasm for life, her love of people, her can-do attitude, her eagerness to experience the unknown, her resilience, and her optimism.
I love Ed’s attention to detail, his quest to rout fallacies, myths, and misconceptions, his lifelong spirit of adventure (documented in his blog), his bluntness (yes!), and his kindness that sometimes breaks through the rough exterior.
And I love you, Mert, for your friendliness, your devotion and commitment to family, your sensitivity, your strength, your openness, and your concern for others.
I think your “concern for others” quality is admirable. You felt beryl didn’t deserve to be talked to that way and you spoke out about it.
Now I ask you to apply that same “concern for others” quality by tolerating what annoys you about Ed.
I sincerely hope you will stay with us. As my mother used to say, “Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water.” 🙂
“Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water ”
That is hysterical! I have never heard that one before. Love it!!
Again, my apologies
I admit that the response did get to me. As far as the caps. I have very poor vision so I actually appreciated her writing in caps. But I do know that on internet it is thought of as “screaming”. But I usually look at what the comment is before I think it is screaming. Anyways,
It has been a very rough and emotional week for me. With mom in nursing home and having issues with a new roommate who screams 24/7 so mom is being left up in her wheelchair all day and night as she can’t tolerate the screaming. Dad is having major surgery Tuesday and more than likely it is prostate cancer. I am having shunt issues myself but can’t get to dr. Until I have my parents taken care of and my sisters are no help. So I probably reacted when maybe on normal circumstances I wouldn’t have. Not on a blog anyways.
So at the end of the day, if I offended anyone. I am sorry
Mert
I’m very relieved, Mert, to read your reply. It would have bothered me terribly if you disappeared!
Reading what you are coping with these days, I’m amazed that you bring so much cheer to this blog, time and time again. Yes, I agree — This has been a tough week for you. God give you strength! I wish someone was there to help you deal with all that caring for elderly parents entails. I pray for you, your mother and your father. I ask blogorinos who are praying-folk to do the same.
Thanks for writing. Kisses to Asia Mae (Behave yourself, Asia! Mommy needs your support!)
Oh dear Mert…so so soo sorry you are in such a spot right now!! I along with Sue, wish you were where I could come help someway…at least some homecooked food if nothing else!! The least I can do is pray for you!! I guess we all find ourselves in hard places in life at times…and it is to be hoped that others will at least try to understand!! Take as much rest as you can and hope to hear things are going better soon for you!!
Thank u both
Beryl, What a lovely post….such friendly, helpful words!! And being in larger print, makes it easier for me at least to read!! I sometimes use large print too….for emphasis, not anger. SO sad some think it is impolite to use them. How else can one show emotion here? At least I have not even figured out how to make a real smiley face, as some do…I can when I do my email…but here, I don’t know how. So I read your post as EXCITEMENT!! Heh…good to have that when thinking about doggies….what wonderful creatures they are!!! I love reading about others doggies, as we cannot have one at this time and we still miss the beloved one we had until Dec. 2010. So I come here to be happy for others who are so fortunate to have them in their homes and lives!! I so wish you the best in finding a new pet, when you are ready. I suspect we are not yet totally ready for one either,( so I do understand how you felt you had to wait awhile). Though this apt won’t let us. We could move and probably will for other reasons anyway ere too long. Thanks for posting here and know that I at least, really enjoyed your post!! Thank you!! And please return when you can!!
Hello rvsueandcrew,
Just came across your delightful site and blog w/pix!
A big Thank you to Mert and also Elizabeth for your Explaination on how Cap Letters are much easier for Most to READ .. .. and has nothing to do with Age or Eyesight capabilities.
And the Teacher Background really comes thru on your Way with Comments ,Lady Sue .. .. Thank You for Sharing and a Happy New Year Coming from me to you in your Search for Good Companions.
( Also want to say thanks for the new Idea use for my Old Mayonaise .. .. never would have thought I could just put it on my Battery .. .. As I just Hate to throw out anything if it has a Better RePurpose .. .. grinning ) .. ..jmg
Okay, you’re kidding about the mayo, right? I made that up. It’s not something to do. Just making sure…. 🙂
Nice hearing from you, jay Gee! Welcome to my blog! Thanks for the compliments.
Bridget sure looks good in those pictures. I don’t know if it’s the sweater or what, but she looks like she feels good if that makes any sense at all… I am a little confused about the price of the possible new crew member. Most fees I’ve ever seen have been less than a hundred dollars. But if it will give a dog a loving home I guess that’s a cheap price to pay…be safe..
Hi, Ron and those who have commented and haven’t received a reply… Don’t mean to be impolite…
I have a ton of things to do today and here it is already noon… Gotta’ go! Talk to y’all later…
Sue
Good Morning Sue, I know its not the money, you will make the right decision for you and for Bridget and all of us Blogorinos will rejoice…I am going to now go looking for some coffee to have with you, and maybe Weather if she is around….Have a good day, with Bridget and I am glad you are back and I am eager to continue on with you again…love the pictures and as usual, love the blog.
Hi, Shirlene,
I missed wishing you a good morning… I had to quit writing replies in order to make a run into town and complete some errands.
Thanks for your loyalty to my blog. I’m eager for a new camp, too, and the fun of showing it to you. I hope you had a good day!
Shirlene, is there some reason you repeatedly and persistently make the point that you are here to see Sue and Weather? Have the rest of us disappointed you in some way? This is not a little group of you three, with a big bunch of other unimportant hangers-on. Everyone here adds something to the mix.
Well, this is Sue’s blog…so I am sure everyone comes here first of all to see what she has to say…but it is true that there are many of us here….I often post something and the person never responds, Ginger….but I just suppose they don’t know what to say. We have all wished you well in your time of sickness…and still do!! Even if we don’t write anything much…hugs!
a belated Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2015’s adventures!
Thanks, Kent! The same to you and Carmen.
I haven’t read all of the comments so maybe someone else has already made this point but I wanted to put in my 2cents.
The way I see it: $300 is a lot, but your companion will be worth it. The question for me would be am I donating the $300 to a worthwhile rescue or to an individual that picks up dogs and resells them for their own profit. My daughter’s neighbor had several rescue dogs for sale during the year so she started talking to the neighbors and eventually found out they would drive by the local animal shelter and pick up dogs that people would just leave outside and then they would bring them home and list them on the petfinder. On a couple of puppies they could make a 2 to 3 hundred.
Since you are mobile you could drive to this town and check out the rescue before making your final decision. Of course once you see this little guy you may not be able to leave without him.
Hi, Kathy,
You describe an operation like what I was thinking of. . . . not necessarily the organization where I saw the cute dog. It’s too easy for people to take advantage of the dogs available from the pound. One thing that raises the red flag for me is when I go to a rescue’s website and it shows a bunch of perfect, adorable, young, preferred breed dogs and when you contact them, all of them have been adopted but they do have some others. Yeah, sounds like bait to me.
Glad you two got some sunshine for your walk along the lake. That first day of warm after some cold time is always the best! Like rigs and how we acquire them, finding the right dog under the right circumstances is different for every person. I would pay more attention to your hesitation than the well-intended opinions of others. Your gut has done well by you thus far, and for something as critical to your lifestyle as a new crew member I wouldn’t second guess it now. I love the criteria for a “photo-face”, and suspect that is Bridget’s number one wish – that you’ll take pics of them and not her :-))))))
Thanks for the reminder to follow my instincts, Jodee. I’ve found them pretty reliable over the years.
Well, since some of my readers want more of the Canine Corner, I need both crew members to photograph well, showing some expressions to go with their dialogue. Crazy.
I am also looking for a pet here in Yuma. You may want to check their site out. Much less expensive than in Phoenix.
http://www.hsoyuma.com/pet-gallery.html
Good luck
PS: Love your blog.
Hi, Doug,
Glad you love my blog. 🙂 I have looked at the Humane Society of Yuma and I do intend to visit them. Thanks for the link and the good luck.
oh i forgot to mention that dakota is a black and white spotted medium size short haireddog -she is 2 yrs old and weights about 45 pounds-has been vetted -micro chipped-spaded -all last january.her fee is 175 if i remember correctly-the 2 hrs i spent at the foster familys home she seemed so friendly and with a super personality.
Hi Beryl,
Love your name, you don’t hear it in the US very often.
I did a search on the word beryl to remind myself what it looks like.
Beryl gemstones come in many colors, including emerald and aquamarine. It is a lovely name.
As to you’re concerned about a dog’s weight, our Olivia is 12 pounds and Oliver is 8 pounds. Both thrive running around in the desert. They have no problems with the activities that we do. If you’d like the dog that is the most important thing.
I often wonder why rescue organizations charge so much.
Hi, Nan,
Generalizations about dogs often fail. Some little dogs are fragile, others are tough and ready to take on the world! Your Oliver and Olivia sound like a fun pair.
Sorry if I missed the explanation, but is there a reason your photos are watermarked with audubon dot org?
Any “non-profit” organization can be abused as a front for greedy people. You do what you can to evaluate the particular rescue group, then make the decision based on how you and Bridget interact with the prospective crew member. The adoption fee is high, but not unreasonable. If the pup is a good fit and the people at the rescue seem decent, just consider it as an extra-generous donation.
Hi, Thor ‘n Drew,
I watermarked the photos audubon dot org in order to give credit for the photos. I lifted the photos from audubon dot org. Within the text I also gave audubon credit for the photos.
My photos are watermarked with “rvsue 2014” or whatever year the photos were taken. My early photos have no watermark… didn’t think to do that.
You’re right… greedy, unscrupulous people will appear anywhere there is a way to make a buck. And yes, I would be happy if part of my new pup’s fee is a donation to a good organization.
Hi, Sue.
I did see your explanation in the previous post with the bird photos. Surely all the photos in THIS post with Bridge in them aren’t from audubon? 😉 I’m guessing you forgot to switch back to your standard watermark in your photo editing software.
Ohhhhh…. Now I see what you mean. Darn it! You’re right. I forgot to switch over to my watermark. I’ll fix them sometime. Thanks for letting me know.
LATER…. Fixed the photos!
rvsueandcrew says:
December 27, 2014 at 12:13 pm
Ohhhhh…. Now I see what you mean. Darn it! You’re right. I forgot to switch over to my watermark. I’ll fix them sometime. Thanks for letting me know.
See…that’s CRS, lol. And my comments above were meant as a compliment. You’re alright, Sue.
Hugs to Bridget.
Cat Lady
My 2 cent vote, based on my own experiences, is for another rat terrier as Bridget’s & your new partner.
I do love ratties!
Happy belated Christmas Sue and Bridget. I see you are looking for a new crew member…how exciting. We’ve had various shapes and sizes and mostly ‘found’ dogs as members of our family. Our last dog Heika, was a BIG female German Sheppard…she preferred to be outside (my house is tiny with a BIG yard) but she liked inside when the weather was too hot or too cold. Heika died of old age. Then, I adopted my granddaughter’s dog when she moved to Alaska. My granddaughter’s mother didn’t want to take Chowder along because Chowder had a tendency to get car sick. I took Chowder with me on hikes but required some driving to the hiking trail so Chowder had no choice but to ride in my truck. He’d politely leaned over the floor mat to get sick but eventually he got over getting car sick and now loves to ‘go for ride.’ A year after adopting Chowder, we found a baby puppy had been dumped either in the park across the street from my house or next to my house. My son found the pup and brought it to me and I immediately loved the pup. Of course we put fliers out and posted ‘found puppy’ at our local Petsmart but no response. We named the pup Ralphie. We had no idea how large Ralphie would get but he turned out to be a tiny dog…at last annual shots he weighted 15 lbs. I think both dogs are terrier mix because their coloring is the same…white with brown spots…Chowder is long haired and curly while Ralphie is short haired. Both are very good long distance hikers i.e. more than three miles one way and they love to hike. I’m sure whatever you decide the dog will adapt to your life style…mine did 🙂
Rita! It’s so nice to see you here again! I always enjoy your comments.
Your dogs adapted well because they love you and want to be a part of your pack. You are their leader! Bless you for having an open mind and heart for dogs that come your way.
Darn it! Dropped the rest of my message again. Was saying,
newest Casita mod for us is installation of Camco 11673 Hot Water Hybrid Heat Kit $85.07 which enables wh to be powered by either propane or electricity. Nice for full hookup site or boondocks.
Also, took the plunge & checked out season 1 of Downtown Abbey from Laughlin Library and I’m hooked! Going to try to refrain from binge watching.
Hi, Kathy,
I thought all hot water heaters in Casitas are made to run on propane or electricity. I’m pretty sure mine is. Just the newer models maybe?
Television can be so terrible that when you find something good, it’s fantastic! After years of not watching tv, I signed up with Netflix (when I lived in GA) and would order all the episodes of a series that received positive reviews. Binge watching was my escape! Enjoy!
Cant wait to meet your new crew member! So glad you do rescue. Belated Merry Christmas!
Hi, Piper,
Nice to see you here again! I hope you had a happy Christmas. Yeah, it’ll be fun to announce the adoption of the newest crew member.
Wow, I can’t believe it, am I really the 175th commenter? 🙂
A belated Merry Christmas to you and hopefully we will be reading about a new addition to the family soon!
G
Hi, G,
At this point I think you’re closer to the 200th. This blog is something else.
Hope your Christmas was all you wanted it to be. . .
How do you verify that the rescue is legit, and not a stolen dog being sold by thieves? I can see $300 as a deterrent to honorable people who really want to rescue. It’s about $125 here where I live.
I know what you mean, Gene. I guess one needs to research the track record and history of the organization.
I’m going to take this opportunity to remind people to take care when rescuing a dog found along a road or wandering around town or wherever. Be sure to take the dog to a vet to be scanned for a microchip, make concerted efforts to advertise the dog, contact online organizations like petfinder, which is where owners look who have lost a dog, put up fliers with photos, contact local vets and give a description of the dog…. Do all this before you assume the dog is yours to keep.
Remember the story of Timber and Rusty… Timber was posted online and Cinandjules found him…
Okay, I’m done.
Try making a pet out of that $1300 door!
Very funny Mick!
Hahaha–that WAS funny Mick!
I take your point… :)… if I can toss $1300 at a door, I can cough up a few hundred for a new crew member. Funny man.
Hi Sue, if you don’t mind driving into the burbs on the east side of Phoenix (Tempe) you may want to check out Lost Our Home Pet Foundation – Jodi specializes in rescuing pets that have been abandoned in homes/apartments after the owners have moved out – realtors call her when they find abandoned animals. Right now she’s got a real cute Jack Russell mix named Sully, among other dogs. It doesn’t say what their adoption fee is, so not sure how it would compare with the candidate you’ve already seen. Just thought I’d give you another option in the area. Web site is lostourhome.org. Happy New Year and safe travels. Linda
Hi, Linda and Gerry,
I’ve never heard of a rescue relationship such as that. It’s disgusting that there’s a need for it. People abandoning animals in a house or apt…. Can’t be bothered to take them to a shelter, at least. Good for Jodi for bringing these animals into her home.
I’ll take a look at Sully. Thank you and have a wonderful new year!
Sue, having lost my Homer last May, I know what you’re going through. I was careful to not be in any hurry to replace him and at just the right time and in just the right place my new Cody came along with no effort on my part at all. And he’s very nearly perfect.
While there can be no right or wrong way, I want to look into the eyes of any dog I adopt. I want to “feel” him and have him “feel” me. In some way I can’t understand you’ll know yea or nay.
Wishing you and Bridget the best in your search.
Bob and Cody
Hi, Bob,
I was sorry to learn of the passing of Homer. I remember trying to express my condolences on your blog but the comments thing was messed up at the time or I was messed up, whatever…
I’m glad you and Cody found each other. May you enjoy many, many years together!
Happy New Year to you and Bridget from Gary, Kori and I! I see you have a lot of posts on cost of rescue..please forgive me if mentioned but the difference btw rescue and animal shelter or “pound” is the caretaker. A rescue is usually with an temp parent who works to transition them from a rescued environment to a pet home so they can be successfully adopted..a pound is usually a county or city kennel of found and abandoned dogs with minimal human contact. Hence the cost difference..good luck in your search, the right one will call out to you and you will know…take care, Mel….
Hi, Mel, Gary, and Kori,
Thank you for explaining the differences between a shelter/pound and a rescue and why animals in rescue are more expensive.
My experience fostering animals was with another type of rescue where the dogs were not expensive. The dogs were pulled from the pound at a special discounted rate through a relationship with county animal control…. for under $100 (with shots, neutered, tests, etc.), and then the foster “parents” housed, fed, trained, observed traits, etc. at no cost to the rescue organization. If medical treatment was required, the organization paid for that, but that’s about it. That way the fee to adopt a dog out of one of our foster homes was kept low.
The organization raised funds in other ways, relying less on adoption fees. Either method of rescue works — I’m not criticizing here. Fortunately our rescue organization enjoyed excellent support from citizens in the area.
Good to hear from you again… Happy New Year to you, too!
Hi Sue, I know you need more rescue info like you need a St. Bernard in your BLT. But I’m giving it anyway. 🙂 I’ve been fostering with a Labrador rescue here in Rochester. Our dogs come from all over. Most labs go quickly so the local shelters don’t keep them long. But if there’s been one there for awhile, or one that isn’t doing well in the shelter environment, the shelter will contact local rescues to pull them.
We also get them from shelters in southern states (long story, but mainly lax spay/neuter laws = too many dogs.) Folks at the shelters do basic temperament testing and over the years the people in our rescue have gotten to know who does the best recommendations. So we usually work with the same groups.
We take in the dogs, make sure they are neutered if not already and fully vetted. They are micro-chipped, and then stay in a foster home for at least a couple of weeks to let their real personalities start to come through. Some dogs are easy – healthy, great personalities – and go fast. One dog I fostered had been a stray and poor nutrition left her with a horrible coat and lots of skin issues. She needed a couple of vet visits to get the meds to help. That girl could shed, wow! And dandruff, yucko. It was so great to see her get healthy. Another was a bag of bones. It was wonderful to watch her start to fill out. And I bought the special shampoos and covered the food costs (labs, big hungry dogs, whew.) The rescue did give me vitamins that had been donated as well as worming pills (which fortunately I only needed for one dog.)
An honest rescue doesn’t make money off the dogs. We’ve taken in some that were so injured that they ended up being euthanized, but not for lack of trying. Puppies are always popular so are priced higher. (They also cost the rescue more because they have to have all their baby shots.) Older dogs often go at a lower price, or even a special “senior for seniors”.
The main reason to buy from a good, reputable rescue is that the dog has lived in a foster home and someone has gotten to know his/her quirks and what kind of home would be best. Like – active, couch potato, loves other dogs, should be an only. A shelter just can’t give you that kind of info. Not to put down a shelter – absolutely not. But there are reasons to pay the price for a dog from a rescue. A REPUTABLE HONEST rescue!
Ok, can you tell this is a soft spot of mine? Folks who don’t know rescue work, or have been hit by bad ones, well I want to bring them to our group and say see what can be accomplished by a good one?! lol!
And yeahhh, you did say way up top that you did rescue work.
Thank you for letting me go on. And follow your instincts – you’ll know when it’s the right dog. If you have that little twitch in the back of your shoulder (that’s where I get mine anyway) you’ll know to move on to the next furball.
Oh, and much as I love labs, never get one as a guard dog. I discovered the people who sold me this house had given the local utility company the house key so the guy could just walk in for meter readings. I learned this a YEAR LATER! When he rang the bell and I happened to be home. I stuttered over our conversation as he explained the situation. “But but I have a DOG” I say as I point to Gracie wagging her tail behind the gate. “Yeah, I know her, she’s really nice” says the guy. Then my granddaughter lets Gracie into the house where she tears out to greet her long lost buddy and slobber all over him. Yeah, my fabulous guard dog, lol!
(Yes I got my key back. No I hadn’t gotten the locks changed – old house, locksmith said it would be cheaper to install all new doors with new locksets. ugh.)
Belated Merry Christmas, early Happy New Year!
Hi, Pat,
What kind of idiot sells a house and leaves the new owner unaware and vulnerable like that? I’m appalled.
A lab as a guard dog… That’s hilarious! It takes a well trained dog of a protector breed to remember to guard, even when thrown a sirloin steak by a stranger. 🙂
Thanks for the unusual story! I hope your Christmas was merry… Happy New Year to you and Gracie!
Heh, as newlyweds, we lived in Hawaii for a few years and the 2nd place we rented, after 6 months!!! A next door neighbor who had moved to a bit bigger apt, came over and gave us LOTS of keys to our house. Uh yea. We asked no questions, hubby went right out and got new door handles and when we left, we reinstalled the ones with MANY keys!!! Hubby was gone on subs more than home in those days…and for a time, the place closest to us was a “house of ill repute”…sure knew GOD was watching over me obviously!! ALWAYS, PLEASE folks figure that when you move to a new place….extra keys are no doubt out there….
Detta and I went down with the flu (yes had shots in Oct.). Flu shots missed this year. We got sick the 21 and still are. When I feel up to it again, I’ll be back. Best wishes to you all.
Hi, Jim,
I noted your absence and wondered if something was wrong. I’m sorry your Christmas was spent suffering with the flu. It’s more than double the suffering when no one in the house is healthy. I can understand you being sapped of energy.
We will wait until you are well and feel like joining us again. Continue to take good care of yourselves and get well, both of you. We love you!
Hope you get over it soon, Jim. As a teacher, I also got the flu shot, but seems there is a virulent strain that the shot didn’t cover. I had no fever or vomiting; just a nasty “cold” that lasted over a week. Rest and liquids, and fortunately, time will help.
That’s along time to be so sick,Jim and Detta,you must be exhausted.I’m praying that comfort, health and strength rush immediately back for both of you.
So sorry you and Detta are ill. Have heard several times that one of the flu strains mutated and so that one strain seems to be the one getting people. It can be devastating but they said having had the shot may at least make that strain less virulent in its attack on people who get it. Do take care and hope you feel better soon. See the doctor if it suddenly gets worse.
Oh no! It’s bad enough when one person gets it! But both is horrible! I hope you both start feeling better soon!
Prayers for both your speedy recovery!!
We got our most recent Sheltie from the Dallas-Fort Worth rescue. Casey was one of those “left behind when the owners moved” situations. I truly can’t comprehend people who can do this. Needless to say, even after 6 years, he still has serious separation anxiety issues. Poor little guy. With that said, we have taken in 2 strays & 4 rescues, & only paid around $100 as adoption fees. I agree that $300 seems like a lot, especially when there were no medical problems to pay for. I have a soft spot for Best Friends, but there seem to be quite a few shelters in the Phoenix area that might have potential. Best of luck in finding a buddy for Bridget — and you.
Hi, Renee,
I did a search in my administration page to figure out if you’re the same Renee as Renee in Datil and yes, you are! Only now you’re Renee in North Ranch… Congratulations on your new domicile!
Shelties are beautiful dogs, both in appearance and temperament. Too bad he was treated cruelly. I’m thankful he now enjoys a loving home.
I’m sorry, Sue — I forgot the (from Datil) part. I didn’t mean to take up your time by looking to see who I was! Still “from Datil” because I don’t ever plan to get rid of our property there, but yes, now “from North Ranch” in the winter. I think I’ll keep using the Datil part in my name, though — when I remember to include it! If you get in our neck of the woods sometime & feel like company, do let us know. Side note: I stopped by & met Kelly & Al last week; very nice folks to visit with, & hope to see them (with Dave this time) again sometime this winter.
Merry Christmas Sue! (A little late). I spent the Holiday with my sister’s home in New Hampshire along with my 2 sons. We were so missing my nephew this year.
I don’t have much to add about adoption fees other than to say I guess it depends on the recipient and their mission. When I look at a place like Villa Lobos rescue, whatever they charge would probably be worth it when looking at their dedication and sacrifice in saving dogs. And then there is the rescue right up the road from me. I think they are rather arrogant and you can’t even look at the dogs in “person”. You flip through photos.
I guess it boils down to “the” dog in the end. The one that won’t leave your thoughts, the one that makes that connection. Then nothing else will matter. That happened to me when we were looking several years ago. He was an 11-year old Norwegian Elkhound, dumped in the shelter because his family “moved”. I never saw a more depressed animal. I couldn’t get him out of my mind. We didn’t take him that day but I just couldn’t stand the thought of him so sad in that shelter. We went back and when he saw us I saw the slightest “wag” in his tail. That did it. We took him home and it was like he’s lived with us all his life. He lived a happy three more years and died quietly at home.
Hi, Toni,
It’s horrifying to think that someone would abandon a family member after 11 years a part of their lives and sharing their home, with the very real possibility of the family member being killed for their convenience. Sickening…
Oh well… rather than dwell on that… How heartwarming that you gave this dog three wonderful years of love and comfort in your home! I love your happy ending. Thanks for writing.
Happy Holidays to both of you. I have two 45 pound dogs I dearly love but I do have to say it has been a challenge to have 4 of us in the Casita these last days of bad weather. Poor dears hang out in the shower to get out of the way. With that said, a smaller strong pup may be a good idea.
We are heading to southern Utah and going to visit the Friends Rescue ranch that I have heard so much about. They even have guest cabins there for visitors. Obviously,
there is no chance of us having the room for another pup.
I have been following your blog for a long time now and have seen it get better and better. My friends follow me on Facebook but asked for a blog. Do you have any suggestions on learning the skills of putting together a good blog and are you happy with wordpress? I hope you have time to respond. You are a busy girl. If you would prefer to answer by e-mail…Lanns1953@yahoo.net
Sending warm thoughts to you both from Tucson, AZ. It sure has been chilly on our whole way up from Florida. Destination Park City : ). Laurie from Boca Raton
Hi, Laurie,
Two 45-pound dogs with you in a Casita… yep, that’s a challenge!
Thank you for reading my blog for a long time and for your remark that it’s getting better with time.
To answer your questions… I’m happy with wordpress. Of course, I have nothing to compare it to, having never used blogger or anything else.
I don’t know how to answer the question about learning the skills to put together a good blog. The best I can say is … jump into blogging and use the skills you’ve developed over a lifetime, including the ability to learn as you go.
There are many types of blogs and many ways to be successful at blogging. My brief advice? Write in a way that is easy to read (both visually and in writing style), provide variety, keep your audience in mind, be yourself, and have fun. Good luck!
Merry Christmas Sue and Bridget and Happy New Year! Just now reading your Dec. 24th and 25th Postings, Absolutely loved them. Your Very sensitive sweet memories…
and I am a bird lover and so enjoyed the bird shots. Thank you for making our year a little brighter and enjoyable with your colorful personable writings and photos.
I am so glad to hear that you are thinking of a New companion for you and Bridget.
All I will say on the subject is : You will know the right one when you LOOK INTO THEIR EYES. I believe with every new dog we have, when we look into their eyes, it is uncanny, but you will catch a glimpse of the eyes of others that have passed. Good luck with your search for just the right one.
Take Care Sue and Bridget.
You’re welcome, Diane! I appreciate all those nice compliments and positive feedback. Thanks for the holiday wish and for repeatedly enhancing my blog with your comments.
I’ve never heard the magic of finding the right dog explained as you have. I’ll try that! 🙂
I agree. My Chloe has something of Daisy in her. Daisy would take her kibble from the bowl, one piece at a time, then trot through the house and jump up on the bed to eat it. Every time. I never saw a dog do that. Chloe does the same thing.
How funny…talk about exercising while you eat!! Our last one generally spit out the mouthfuls on the floor beside the dish and ate it that way. They are all different just like people are!!
Spike taught Bridget to put her paw on the edge of the bowl, press, and flip dinner out onto the floor in order dine the way a dog should. 🙂
Spike the criminal! Hahh
He figured…if Bridge did it you wouldn’t get mad at BOTH of them!
That’s our Spike!
🙂
Asia gets a mouthful then walks through the house eating it as it spews out all over the place. And she will not go back and pick it up. I guess she’s afraid she will miss something if she takes the time out to eat alone
One shaft of sunshine broke through the clouds ,my spaniel sat in it’s spotlight .Silent and still he listened to something I couldn’t hear yet,so I watched the light show instead.As tangerine orange went into shadow ,white sparkles flashed,light springtime green overspread the horizon just when the sun finally set.
In the dimly lit cove geese settled in for the evening.I didn’t until much later ,nights around 60 degrees late December here are so rare leaving it would have been such a waste…Good morning Sue,will today be as busy as yesterday was for you? Little sleep had me choose strong coffee, so I expect to get a lot done.Nice to let beauty choose what comes next.
You’re well into the afternoon where you are… I’m late with my wish for your good morning, so I’ll wish you a pleasant evening instead.
You have a spaniel! Little by little the members of your troupe are coming into the mental picture I’m creating of you and your home on a cliff-top overlooking the lake. When I read your descriptions I feel like I’m floating somewhere over your shoulder. Do you hear my wows and oohs and aahs? Haha!
I have to tell you — I woke up this morning around 4 a.m. to roadrunners around the BLT! I couldn’t see them, of course. They were coo-cooing back and forth and it sounded like four or more were out there, although the way they dart about there may only have been two. One has a lower pitch than the other.
I love how different camps have their own background sound. I could identify several of my favorite camps by lying still at night listening.
I hope you got a lot done today as you expected and can relax this evening and sleep well.
Thanks Sue,I am relaxing this evening.Reading your comment it occurred to me that by choosing your locations according to temperatures you make almost every night one with the windows open to sounds,wow.I really hadn’t thought that through much before.I did that all twelve years I lived in San Diego,yet as it held much the same sounds each night,it can’t compare to what you’re experiencing in as many camps as you’ve had…beautiful,now the oohs and aahs are from me.Hope you sleep well,too.
Well, almost all our camps are open window camps. At this time of year, even in AZ, I have the windows closed. Even so, the sounds are easy to hear. Between the starry sky and the cooing roadrunners, I don’t mind waking up for that!
enough to make one awaken humming!see ya next post I just saw,yippee! 🙂
Oh Weather… a spaniel….sweet dogs. I have kind of toyed with the idea of a King Charles Spaniel maybe someday…of course, I am very attached to Blue Heelers too…but you need some kids to exercise them!!
Lovely description of sunset….it was so pretty as we approached home here yesterday…hubby has taken up painting a bit and we talked of how those colors would look on canvas. It was a relief coming home…having had to spend time with his kin who barely tolerate me (over 42 years of this)…sigh. Aw well, they like to hear their own voices so tis not too hard….I can stay silent as I wish to…no one notices. 😉 Always silver linings to every cloud eh?
Oh,Elizabeth,what a great way to look at the time you spend among his kin!You always make me smile by saying hi here,this time I laughed.There have been a lot of times I really didn’t want conversation with those nearby,either.We are blessed to have homes away from such where that relief is ours.
I am happy for you Weather….being far away can be a blessing. Heh…normally, the last decade we would be back east…but now we are only 2 hours from these kin of his in order to help our daughter out west here. Oh well…2 hrs and most in nasty traffic is somewhat a deterrent too!! Heh…. I am glad my little reply above made you laugh…laughter is so good for the health!!
Wish you could see all the wonderful sky and water views we have here…seems it is different every day. We saw 3 different kinds of weather in the distance as we were out walking this afternoon. (Sure makes walking for health and forcing ourselves to work at it, a much nicer idea). We were talking about how we really need a good camera…hubby could do a nice blog with just some of these lovely scenes we are seeing in the distance!!
How nice!I’m so glad to hear you’re given wonderful views while out walking dear lady.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and Bridget ! I have enjoyed reading your blog for past year or so. I recommend the Arizona Animal Welfare League and SPCA to adopt a dog or cat. You can read all about them on their website, https://aawl.org/about-aawl. They also have a facebook page. Some of their dogs do have adoption fees of $200.00 to $300.00, but they are using the money to fund more animal rescues.
Hi, Phyllis L,
Glad you stopped by! I wish you happy holidays, too. Thanks for letting me know you’ve enjoyed my blog.
I have looked at the AAWL. They have a lot of adoptables. Thanks for the link.
In Tucson at the Pima County Animal Shelter check out Bayson, case number A505377. Description says a 2 year old Chihuahua mix. I am guessing mixed with a Jack Russell or Rat Terrier as he is white and black. I believe their adoption fee is $30.00.
Hi, Joan,
Thank you! I’ll take a look right now. 🙂
Bayson is a nice-looking dog and close to what I’m looking for, maybe just right. However, I’d have to find a place to camp around Tucson… Catalina State Park is nearby, I’d have to stay a couple of nights, and looking at the reservation map, we’d be jammed in with close neighbors. If there were any delay in the adoption process, I’d be stuck there and I don’t know that I can handle that.
Thank you… I’m sure Bayson will be grabbed quickly. He hasn’t been there very long. Bridget and I need to move camp, probably tomorrow or the next day, headed for a warmer (I hope) area.
I could probably go adopt Bayson for you then drive him out to you…if you are interested.
Thanks, Ginger, but no, that wouldn’t be good. I have to be with a dog in order to make that decision. You’re sweet.
If you have not found this rescue organization yet it might be worth your time to stop and visit them. They seem to have more small dogs than large, some Rat and some Jack Russel Terriers. Pictures @ http://peeweespals.rescueme.org (Domino looks interesting, adoption fee $100)
Pee Wee’s Pal’s Animal Rescue
3018 N 16th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85016
TEXT Anne (602)721-3497 for DOGS
They also have a web site Contact Us email form.
Hi, Ed,
Domino, Eddie, and Ernie look good. Wish to heck they weren’t in Phoenix. I’ll have to think about this… logistics of camping have to be considered. I need to move and stay at low elevation. Thanks.
You certainly are getting some great advice on a new family member. LOL. I have to smile as when we decided to replace our much loved dogs, we had decided on a short haired dog weighing no more than 25 pounds. This dog would be replacing 2 much loved mixed golden retrievers. We are from Michigan and most rescue groups will not let you adopt unless you have sticks and bricks, fenced yard and locks on cupboards. Quite snooty in my opinion. We were going to start full timing in a year. I found one on line at a shelter about 50 miles from home. My husband was working so my daughter and I headed out in her little Ford Focus. We got there and this “perfect” little dog was walking out the door with his new owner. I decided to take a look anyway. Well there was this feisty long haired dog jumping up and down and he looked like a reject from a garage sale!! He made eye contact with me and I said oh no and walked out of the room. Looked some more but was pulled back in by those eyes. I asked the attendant and he said he had been adopted 2 times and brought back because he was too high strung and had a lot of “baggage”. Well, not knowing one living soul who does not have baggage, I said I wanted to take him out and set outside and talk to him. I told him we had a year and we would be heading out on the road and told him I would be high strung also with my life in a cage with barking dogs. He sat there and didn’t move a muscle. When I asked him if he understood all I was telling him, he licked my cheek and I knew he would not see the inside of a cage again. The only criteria he met was he weighed was the 25 pounds because he was all skin and bones. At the time we adopted him his age was estimated at 1 1/2 years. He now is about 13. Yes, he had issues from being out on his own and not good nutrition, high strung was due from lack of exercise and no stability in his life. I got to tell you, he is just absolutely the best furry child we could have picked and he only met one qualification and that went out the window once he got the food he required. He now weighs 40 pounds. LOL This long message is just to state that you will know when the right furry child comes along. We always pick from the heart. Andy (the dog) and I love your blog even if we don’t comment often. Enjoy the journey.
Hi, Jill,
I have to chuckle reading the account of finding the “perfect” dog who turns out to be a very “imperfect” choice to begin with. Those other people gave up too soon and missed out! Their loss has been your gain… I’m happy for you and your family.
I’m glad you love my blog. Do stop by again, as often or not as suits you!
Merry Christmas Sue and Bridget!
I’m still out here enjoying your blog now and then just haven’t been commenting lately. I love your beautiful photos, simple observations, and eloquent storytelling and I’m so glad to see how successful you’ve become!
Also glad to hear you are searching for a new crew member. Something to keep in mind regarding fees at animal rescue groups is that often these groups also rescue dogs with medical problems or disabilities. Of course it can take a long time to find homes for special-needs dogs and in the meantime they have higher maintenance costs.
So sometimes a dog that is easier to adopt (or very popular breed) will have a higher fee to subsidize the care some of these other animals may require.
Somewhere I read that black dogs can also be very hard to find a home for because they’re not considered “cute”. I think I know this because my brother adapted a black dog who is the sweetest dog ever (well one of the sweetest). So please don’t rule out a little black dog that fits all your other criteria!
Thanks for hearing me out and wishing you the best in the new year!
I wish the same for you, Alison. Great to see you here again and to know you still read my blog. Thanks for the compliments.
You’re right about black dogs being difficult to find homes for. In Georgia they are referred to by a common breed name of “Georgia Black Dog.”
Nina and Paul at Wheeling It blog and Al and Kelly at Travels with the Bayfield Bunch blog have black dogs, Polly and Pheebs respectively. Both are wonderful dogs.
I’m just partial to light-colored dogs, don’t know why, and they are easier to photograph for this blog.
MESSAGE TO READERS:
My sincere thanks to all who have been searching the internet for a new crew member. I’m following-up on your suggestions very carefully. At this point I need to focus on our next camp move and then resume looking for the right companion for Bridget and me wherever we end up. Thanks again!
Hi Sue, Bridget, and everyone. I trust everyone had a fine Christmas/Hanukkah holiday. Like all of you, I wait with baited breath to see what the new crew member will be like when he/she arrives on board the BLT home. Like Sue, I believe she will know her pooch the minute she lays eyes on him/her. When that magic moment happens all the waiting, guessing and pondering will be over. All questions will be answered in a flash because the Heart knows. And that wonderful feeling of Awwww takes over everthing else. Suddenly all things have there place again.
Here’s a sweet tale of a dog that almost was deemed NOT Adoptable. The tale ends wonderfully…
The dog comes to the local shelter in Minneapolis from a nice couple who is giving up the dog because they could not find a suitable house to rent that allowed dogs of a larger breed. After some time the staff thought the dog to be unrulely, would not listen well, would not mind even the slightest commands and seemed grumpy at best. In short, no one wanted him and he didn’t seem to want them either. Well, all that changed in a flash! A sweet little girl comes to view the dogs with her family…they spot him. She asks to see him closer in the Visitation room. The staff was not willing at first…being he was not suitable to the staff’s liking. She pleaded…OK for a short time. She speaks to him. Come here to me. HE DID. Sit. HE DID! Shake hands… HE DID !!! The staff was in total shock!!! How can that be? He minds you so perfectly. The little girl smiled with delight…he only knows Spanish 🙂
And so, he was the PERFECT dog for her.
All’s well that ends well.
In time RV Sue and HRH Miss Bridget will find their perfect crewmate. I’m sure of it.
Thanks for sharing this sweet story!!
That is a precious story, Pamela. Who would’ve thought! Thanks for taking the time to share it with us. I almost missed your comment. So glad I didn’t!
I guess I should go on to explain why the staff didn’t know that the Perfect Dog couldn’t understand English commands. The dog’s real owners were immigant workers in the Minnesota Farm areas. They were mostlikely undocumented workers or agraid to give up the dog themeslves to the shelter…filling out paperwork and all. So they arranged for a friendly local couple to place the dog for them in the shelter. Guess the couple did not think to explain about the Spanish to English thing at the time they surrendered him, hence the confusion by the Staff. I must admit, I would not have thought to mention about the Spanish only commands either. Anyway, I thought it was such a cool story and one of the record books of Happy Endings…A Perfect Shoe That Fit.
Good Morning Deborah,
Yikees 34 degrees hear near Yuma AZ….burrrrrrr. You are in a bit of a pickle aren’t you. I should explain that my “estate sale” was nothing more then me putting an ad in the paper that said “Estate Sale, EVERYTHING MUST GO, open 9-3 everyday until January 27, 2014”. I was lucky that the buyers of the house bought ALL my furniture, my patio set, my Electrolux…etc. Just stick with it and you will get it all done.
It is a cool story!
It is so nice to return to this blog after a brief time away with visiting holiday guests and find that almost everyone is still here. I find that I miss my regular visits with everyone. Being a blogerino is almost like being family. I wish all of you a Happy New Year. I have no knowledge of dogs or shelters, but I am certain that Sue will find the perfect pet for herself. Hugs to each of you.