After quite a number of years, we actually had people over this year on Christmas. Back in the day, we used to celebrate Christmas, not because we were Christian, but it was always an opportunity to get together with those that we love. I guess growing up in Trinidad where everyone celebrated everything, Christmas was just another chance to celebrate our multi-cultural heritage. We are muslim, and our faith is not one that lends itself to the sheer joy and exhuberance of Christmas.
I have always loved Christmas. It was a time of fun, presents, parties and gifts. Growing up we always had a tree. Every year there would be presents under that tree. I kept that tradition with my own kids. We always made a big deal of Christmas. It was only after my brother passed away that Christmas and its traditions became quite sad for our family. There was no more getting together at his place on Christmas Eve and staying until just after midnight so that we could open presents at his house. Then he would come over to our house on Christmas Day. We would always wait to open presents until he and his wife came over. Those were good years. The first year after Azim died, I tried to keep the tradition, but it was too painful for Sherry. After that, I guess in order to move on with her life, she stopped coming over at Christmas. I guess we were a reminder of what she had lost, and as much as it hurt, I could understand her reluctance to be around us. As for the kids, this coincided with them beginning to grow up. Christmas became for us just another day off. We slept in late. There were no more presents. It would take years before we could summon up joy at that time of year.
But as with everything, time changes things. The kids have grown up. Azam is engaged to Neda. Aaron is seeing Nikki. Ansaar has the dogs.
This year we lost my Dad, and once again Christmas was difficult. The one thing that I did however, was to not let it get us to the same place that we were when Zim died. I decided to surround us with those that we care about.
My cousin Joey came over. His wife Sarah worked and was working early the next morning, so she did not come. Neda and her parents came over. Nikki came over, as did Neda's sister Ziba, her husband Varqa and their kids. I made turkey with stuffing and gravy, potato gratin, wild rice, vegetables and baked my much-loved sponge cake, as well as a tres-leche coconut cupcake with dulche de leche and buttercream icing. My mom made the most amazing pone(cassava cake), and coconut sweetbread. She also made Dhalpuri roti and curry duck. Neda's Mom made a Saffron chicken and mango salad. Nikki's Mom sent over a Phillipino stuffed fish. The food was most excellent!!
More importantly though, our family was together. Being busy kept both my Mom and myself from getting totally depressed. The feelings of loss will truly never go away, but at least we were not alone so that all we did was focus on what was missing in our lives.
We had a lovely dinner. We talked, we laughed. The kids played video games. The parents watched. Nothing earth-shattering happened. Just good food, warm company, and lots of love. Some days, life can be good...
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
Lola and the Eggs
Okay, so while growing up in Trinidad we always had birds...Canaries, Robins,Parrots. No big deal. None of them ever had eggs, so I guess I forgot that female birds lay eggs.
Apparently female parrots of Lola's kind can have eggs at least twice a year and the clutch can be up to about four.
The first time it happened was about two years ago. I had never been close enough to any feathered creature when they laid eggs to know what actually happens. It was one of those things that you never really give much thought to. I just assumed that it was the natural course of things and the egg just popped out. No way! For a female bird, laying an egg is the equivalent to a female human having a baby. The first time was horrible for us...oh and for Lola too! The poor bird literraly squealed and squealed. We had no inkling of what was going on, so we thought that she was dying. Prior to that Lola had been extremely loving towards Azam. We just assumed that she was mellowing and was just grateful that she was obssessed with him to the exclusion of biting us. We were all in bed when we heard her. Of course everyone came running! We took her out of the cage, tried giving her water, rubbing her back, trying in some way to ease her pain. We started discussing whether to take her to a vet. At this point everyone was very emotional. Azam had her in his arms, and was trying to see where she was hurting when he noticed something white. We quickly figured out what was going on and took her back to the cage so that at least she would be sitting when the egg came out. Of course we all stayed up with her until it was over. For a small bird it was quite a large egg. We all went to bed keeping an ear open in case it happened again. Luckily she only laid the one.
When I read up on it, we were supposed to leave her with the egg and she would abandon it after about six weeks once she figured out that it would not hatch. This would also discourage her from more frequent laying.
That six weeks turned into over three months! Two months of hand-feeding Lola because she would not leave the egg for a minute. Three months of sneaking the egg out of the cage to wash it because she would try to feed it cereal and yogurt (it got pretty disgusting). After the second month she started leaving the egg for short periods of time. By the end of the third month we were all at the stage of thinking that it would never end. How did it eventually end? Well I took the egg out to wash it and left it on the counter next to the fridge wrapped in a towel. It was my attempt to wean her away from it. While someone was getting something from the counter the egg broke. Curiously Lola did not even look for it. After all our catering to her, I think that she out-smarted us all! We were the ones who would run to her the minute she made any sort of noise. We were the ones who came home early no matter where we were to hand-feed her. Even Lola could recognize a good thing!
Since then she has had eggs once a year. The last time, she really wasn't attached to it. She laid the egg and it broke when Ansaar was cleaning her cage. She never really sat on it.
This week she laid two eggs. Both are small so she did not have too much trouble. She sits on them, but comes out to poop, eat and shower. She will not poop in the cage once she has eggs. When we are at home, we leave the cage door open so that she can come and go as she pleases. Now we wait until she is no longer interested in sitting on the eggs or until another "accident" occurs.
In the meantime, she is so sweet. She talks to the eggs, gives the eggs kisses. It is absolutely adorable to see her running quickly back to check on them when she feels that she has been away for too long. We do not have to watch where we step because there is no threat of the little red devil on the floor to bite us. My cupboards are left alone, after all who wants to investigate silly cupboards when there are egss to be taken care of?
Apparently female parrots of Lola's kind can have eggs at least twice a year and the clutch can be up to about four.
The first time it happened was about two years ago. I had never been close enough to any feathered creature when they laid eggs to know what actually happens. It was one of those things that you never really give much thought to. I just assumed that it was the natural course of things and the egg just popped out. No way! For a female bird, laying an egg is the equivalent to a female human having a baby. The first time was horrible for us...oh and for Lola too! The poor bird literraly squealed and squealed. We had no inkling of what was going on, so we thought that she was dying. Prior to that Lola had been extremely loving towards Azam. We just assumed that she was mellowing and was just grateful that she was obssessed with him to the exclusion of biting us. We were all in bed when we heard her. Of course everyone came running! We took her out of the cage, tried giving her water, rubbing her back, trying in some way to ease her pain. We started discussing whether to take her to a vet. At this point everyone was very emotional. Azam had her in his arms, and was trying to see where she was hurting when he noticed something white. We quickly figured out what was going on and took her back to the cage so that at least she would be sitting when the egg came out. Of course we all stayed up with her until it was over. For a small bird it was quite a large egg. We all went to bed keeping an ear open in case it happened again. Luckily she only laid the one.
When I read up on it, we were supposed to leave her with the egg and she would abandon it after about six weeks once she figured out that it would not hatch. This would also discourage her from more frequent laying.
That six weeks turned into over three months! Two months of hand-feeding Lola because she would not leave the egg for a minute. Three months of sneaking the egg out of the cage to wash it because she would try to feed it cereal and yogurt (it got pretty disgusting). After the second month she started leaving the egg for short periods of time. By the end of the third month we were all at the stage of thinking that it would never end. How did it eventually end? Well I took the egg out to wash it and left it on the counter next to the fridge wrapped in a towel. It was my attempt to wean her away from it. While someone was getting something from the counter the egg broke. Curiously Lola did not even look for it. After all our catering to her, I think that she out-smarted us all! We were the ones who would run to her the minute she made any sort of noise. We were the ones who came home early no matter where we were to hand-feed her. Even Lola could recognize a good thing!
Since then she has had eggs once a year. The last time, she really wasn't attached to it. She laid the egg and it broke when Ansaar was cleaning her cage. She never really sat on it.
This week she laid two eggs. Both are small so she did not have too much trouble. She sits on them, but comes out to poop, eat and shower. She will not poop in the cage once she has eggs. When we are at home, we leave the cage door open so that she can come and go as she pleases. Now we wait until she is no longer interested in sitting on the eggs or until another "accident" occurs.
In the meantime, she is so sweet. She talks to the eggs, gives the eggs kisses. It is absolutely adorable to see her running quickly back to check on them when she feels that she has been away for too long. We do not have to watch where we step because there is no threat of the little red devil on the floor to bite us. My cupboards are left alone, after all who wants to investigate silly cupboards when there are egss to be taken care of?
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Night Routine
It's been a while since I've had the desire to write. Life has an irritating habit of stopping us in our tracks, but more on that later.
Kiko and Lyra have developed a night-time routine. Dinner tends to be typically between 7 and 8 at night in our house. Following this both dogs need to go outside to do their business, then it's bed-time! They will go to the platform that's in the middle of the staircase and look at me expectantly. If I don't pay heed, they will come to me, then go back to the stairs. I've been quite successful at ignoring their attempts for the most part until I am ready to go to bed. Most nights they'll give up and lie down and go into a half-sleep until I am ready to go upstairs. Other nights, when Lyra gets really vocal, I tend to cave. A whining, complaining Husky is a pain in the behind!! And Lyra is very vocal. Aaron taught her to speak, so now she asks for "wa-wa"(water). She can't say bed, but the sleepy face combined with the whining sure lets you know what she wants! Kiko just paws at you with what I am sure she thinks is a gentle motion - I have the bruises to prove otherwise!
So they go upstairs and have to have their "night water". I still cannot believe that they both drink simultaneously out of a medium-sized margarine container. I tried giving them something larger, but they would have none of it...so the margarine container remains.
In the meantime, Azam or Aaron is downstairs giving Lola her "night water". She gets her water replaced everynight, but has to drink some out of the cage before she goes to bed. Lola also has her dinner with us...she eats regular food, typically with Azam - the love of her life. She substitutes Aaron and Ansaar when he's not around, and us when the kids aren't at home.
Some days the dogs will sleep in our room. other days they sleep with Azam and Aaron or Ansaar. They pretty nuch decide where they want to sleep. Of course they can and often do move around in the middle of the night.
Lyra no longer gets up to pee in the middle of the night, thank goodness. Kiko has however recently decided that she must drink water in the middle of the night. She will come to my room and go to the washroom to investigate if there is any water in the dish. If there's none, she then comes to wake me with a "gentle" pawing. The kids have said to ignore her, but she's very persistent. The dog would either sit there and stare at me, or sit and sleep until I get up. It just gets both of us back to sleep faster if I just get up and give her water! I am hoping that this new behaviour is temporary and soon I won't jump up to that creepy feeling that someone is staring at me while I am sleeping.
Kiko and Lyra have developed a night-time routine. Dinner tends to be typically between 7 and 8 at night in our house. Following this both dogs need to go outside to do their business, then it's bed-time! They will go to the platform that's in the middle of the staircase and look at me expectantly. If I don't pay heed, they will come to me, then go back to the stairs. I've been quite successful at ignoring their attempts for the most part until I am ready to go to bed. Most nights they'll give up and lie down and go into a half-sleep until I am ready to go upstairs. Other nights, when Lyra gets really vocal, I tend to cave. A whining, complaining Husky is a pain in the behind!! And Lyra is very vocal. Aaron taught her to speak, so now she asks for "wa-wa"(water). She can't say bed, but the sleepy face combined with the whining sure lets you know what she wants! Kiko just paws at you with what I am sure she thinks is a gentle motion - I have the bruises to prove otherwise!
So they go upstairs and have to have their "night water". I still cannot believe that they both drink simultaneously out of a medium-sized margarine container. I tried giving them something larger, but they would have none of it...so the margarine container remains.
In the meantime, Azam or Aaron is downstairs giving Lola her "night water". She gets her water replaced everynight, but has to drink some out of the cage before she goes to bed. Lola also has her dinner with us...she eats regular food, typically with Azam - the love of her life. She substitutes Aaron and Ansaar when he's not around, and us when the kids aren't at home.
Some days the dogs will sleep in our room. other days they sleep with Azam and Aaron or Ansaar. They pretty nuch decide where they want to sleep. Of course they can and often do move around in the middle of the night.
Lyra no longer gets up to pee in the middle of the night, thank goodness. Kiko has however recently decided that she must drink water in the middle of the night. She will come to my room and go to the washroom to investigate if there is any water in the dish. If there's none, she then comes to wake me with a "gentle" pawing. The kids have said to ignore her, but she's very persistent. The dog would either sit there and stare at me, or sit and sleep until I get up. It just gets both of us back to sleep faster if I just get up and give her water! I am hoping that this new behaviour is temporary and soon I won't jump up to that creepy feeling that someone is staring at me while I am sleeping.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Update
Lyra and Kiko are doing extremely well since they were spayed. Both were very active (keeping their activity level down was the most difficult part!) and it's as if though nothing had happened. Kiko had some minor discomfort in the couple of days afterward but she was fine after.
Lyra had her dew claws removed as well on her hind legs. She looked adorable in her pink bandages!
Both have healed really well and are back to normal.
Lyra had her dew claws removed as well on her hind legs. She looked adorable in her pink bandages!
Both have healed really well and are back to normal.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
To Spay Or Not To Spay
Kiko and Lyra are going in to be spayed on Friday March 19th.
As the date comes closer and closer, I find myself worrying about them as though they are one of my children.
When we made the decision to spay them, it was the logical thing to do. We are not going to breed them, and the benefits of spaying a female dog as early as possible are many. The chance of getting mammary cancer is reduced to 10% if they are spayed prior to their first heat and to about 25% if spayed after their second heat. Spaying also eliminates the possibility of them getting ovarian or uterine cancer. The chance of them getting Pyometra (an infection of the uterus ) is also eliminated. Having a female dog in heat is also not the most sanitary of situation (as we learned with Kiko).
However, logic and emotions are two totally different entities. I am concerned about their reaction to us leaving them. They've never gone anywhere without one of us. I know that they will be sedated and as such asleep most of the time. Yet I feel this uncontrollable desire to go and overnight at the vet's office (we're not allowed - I got Ansaar to ask). I know that it's a routine procedure. I know that they are very resilient. I know that they will heal and be ok. Yet I cannot help but feel like I should be there to hold them and reassure them. They are dependent on us for so much, yet we are the ones who will cause them pain - even though it is for their own good. How very strange to feel such an attachment....It was much simpler when dogs were just that..dogs. They slept outside, you fed them once a day, gave them a bath once a week, didn't really play with them or share space with them, never got to know them as individuals, there was no emotional bonding, just humane compassion if anything happened. With Kiko and Lyra, they are very much a part of the family, not just dogs....and so I worry until I know that it is over and that they are well again.
As the date comes closer and closer, I find myself worrying about them as though they are one of my children.
When we made the decision to spay them, it was the logical thing to do. We are not going to breed them, and the benefits of spaying a female dog as early as possible are many. The chance of getting mammary cancer is reduced to 10% if they are spayed prior to their first heat and to about 25% if spayed after their second heat. Spaying also eliminates the possibility of them getting ovarian or uterine cancer. The chance of them getting Pyometra (an infection of the uterus ) is also eliminated. Having a female dog in heat is also not the most sanitary of situation (as we learned with Kiko).
However, logic and emotions are two totally different entities. I am concerned about their reaction to us leaving them. They've never gone anywhere without one of us. I know that they will be sedated and as such asleep most of the time. Yet I feel this uncontrollable desire to go and overnight at the vet's office (we're not allowed - I got Ansaar to ask). I know that it's a routine procedure. I know that they are very resilient. I know that they will heal and be ok. Yet I cannot help but feel like I should be there to hold them and reassure them. They are dependent on us for so much, yet we are the ones who will cause them pain - even though it is for their own good. How very strange to feel such an attachment....It was much simpler when dogs were just that..dogs. They slept outside, you fed them once a day, gave them a bath once a week, didn't really play with them or share space with them, never got to know them as individuals, there was no emotional bonding, just humane compassion if anything happened. With Kiko and Lyra, they are very much a part of the family, not just dogs....and so I worry until I know that it is over and that they are well again.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Our Little Graduate!
Lyra has successfully graduated from her puppy class! She passsed her final exam with flying colours! We've learned so much from her class and will for sure continue practicing everything she learned. After their spay, I'm going to regsiter both Kiko and Lyra for the intermediate class! I've also included pictures of Lyra's friend and classmate Nikkita.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
At Work
We pretty much cart the doggies to work on most days. They get a break on the days that Ansaar is at home, usually Mondays and Tuesdays. They also stay at home when Azam starts work late in the day and Aaron only has to watch them for a brief window of time - he is after all in school and needs to do his work! They also get every Sunday and most Saturdays off.
At first they were thrilled to come to work - just like us when we got our first job and it was new and exciting! Lots to discover - product on the shelves to be sniffed at, aisles to be run through, parts to be investigated, cardboard to be chewed. This usually left the little one (Lyra) smelling as though she had been disassembling parts to be rebuilt. Prak came up with method after method to block their access to the warehouse. We discovered just how much of a Houdini Lyra was! She beat the barricades each time and escaped to the wonderful, adventure that is the warehouse. Kiko would not attempt escape, but once Lyra came up with a path, she was certainly not going to be excluded from the adventure! Finally we came up with a sure-fire way to prevent the escapades - we used plywood shelving to block any open areas. Of course this means that we now have to cross over them, but at least we get a good stretch out of it! They haven't yet figured out that they can quite easily jump our barricade - here's hoping that they don't discover that anytime soon! Now that they are restricted to the office, the girls are not in the least bit interested in going to work. I must admit that I share their sentiments. The ever vocal Lyra protests every day. They come in and sulk until about noon, which is when I give them breakfast. This usually involves hand-feeding Kiko. Lyra is pretty good and will eat by herself. Today I left Kiko until about 3 o'clock, determined not to hand feed her. I finally felt sorry and tried to give her some beef kabob - the dog literally spat it out several times (this is not the first time that she spat out food when she's sulking). She was so hungry that she was actually drooling, but did not start to eat until I shoved a piece of the kabob deeper into her mouth! Of course she finally ate all of it.
Lyra began chewing on the blinds due to sheer boredom. Kiko refuses to play at work. She spends most of her days sleeping, so Lyra has to find ways to occupy herself. There is lots of room for them to play. There are also lots of toys for them to amuse themselves. However, I believe that they want to have me participate in their play - something that I just don't have the time to do.
As a result they have a tremendous amount of energy when they get home. Even though we let them out to play in the backyard once we get home, they are full of energy until pretty late at night. After their bath (can't have them smelling like shop), they will play.... and play..... and play. Then in the morning they have to be made to get up in order to go to work...hmmmm...sounds just like us...we have all the energy to go out on the weekends or at night, but come time to go to work, we are soooo tired! Like us, they will have to learn that we sometimes do what is necessary, rather than what we truly want to do.
At first they were thrilled to come to work - just like us when we got our first job and it was new and exciting! Lots to discover - product on the shelves to be sniffed at, aisles to be run through, parts to be investigated, cardboard to be chewed. This usually left the little one (Lyra) smelling as though she had been disassembling parts to be rebuilt. Prak came up with method after method to block their access to the warehouse. We discovered just how much of a Houdini Lyra was! She beat the barricades each time and escaped to the wonderful, adventure that is the warehouse. Kiko would not attempt escape, but once Lyra came up with a path, she was certainly not going to be excluded from the adventure! Finally we came up with a sure-fire way to prevent the escapades - we used plywood shelving to block any open areas. Of course this means that we now have to cross over them, but at least we get a good stretch out of it! They haven't yet figured out that they can quite easily jump our barricade - here's hoping that they don't discover that anytime soon! Now that they are restricted to the office, the girls are not in the least bit interested in going to work. I must admit that I share their sentiments. The ever vocal Lyra protests every day. They come in and sulk until about noon, which is when I give them breakfast. This usually involves hand-feeding Kiko. Lyra is pretty good and will eat by herself. Today I left Kiko until about 3 o'clock, determined not to hand feed her. I finally felt sorry and tried to give her some beef kabob - the dog literally spat it out several times (this is not the first time that she spat out food when she's sulking). She was so hungry that she was actually drooling, but did not start to eat until I shoved a piece of the kabob deeper into her mouth! Of course she finally ate all of it.
Lyra began chewing on the blinds due to sheer boredom. Kiko refuses to play at work. She spends most of her days sleeping, so Lyra has to find ways to occupy herself. There is lots of room for them to play. There are also lots of toys for them to amuse themselves. However, I believe that they want to have me participate in their play - something that I just don't have the time to do.
As a result they have a tremendous amount of energy when they get home. Even though we let them out to play in the backyard once we get home, they are full of energy until pretty late at night. After their bath (can't have them smelling like shop), they will play.... and play..... and play. Then in the morning they have to be made to get up in order to go to work...hmmmm...sounds just like us...we have all the energy to go out on the weekends or at night, but come time to go to work, we are soooo tired! Like us, they will have to learn that we sometimes do what is necessary, rather than what we truly want to do.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Booties!!!!
Ever since we were blessed with Lyra, Big Z has insisted that she always wear boots to go outside. She bought Lyra her first set of booties however they proved not to be durable. We then found a website that sold sled dog boots and those lasted for a bit however the velcro started fraying and they started to get holes in them. I don't think that they were designed for longer use.
Just recently we decided to just make our own. My mom went out and bought the fabric and my grandma made them! Creative genius at its finest!
The first set is made out of blue flexible boat vinyl. They're completely waterproof, definitely a good thing in rainy and snowy weather! They're very chic as well, giving the look of leather. They're also easy to clean and helps to prevent digging as well as keep their paws dry and clean!
We've also made a set out of fabric for indoors when they go to work with the parentals.
My grandma will be making more, we have a plethora of fabrics to use to create some fabulous designs! I'll post more pics once the other one's are done.
The plan is to have them wear the booties when they go out even in the summer (the backyard will be most thankful for that!).
Just recently we decided to just make our own. My mom went out and bought the fabric and my grandma made them! Creative genius at its finest!
The first set is made out of blue flexible boat vinyl. They're completely waterproof, definitely a good thing in rainy and snowy weather! They're very chic as well, giving the look of leather. They're also easy to clean and helps to prevent digging as well as keep their paws dry and clean!
We've also made a set out of fabric for indoors when they go to work with the parentals.
My grandma will be making more, we have a plethora of fabrics to use to create some fabulous designs! I'll post more pics once the other one's are done.
The plan is to have them wear the booties when they go out even in the summer (the backyard will be most thankful for that!).
Monday, February 8, 2010
Lyra - The Quick Pee Artist
So, we've been trying to house train Lyra for the past few months. Just when I thought that success was within reach, she reverts to peeing in the house. I never thought that such a little dog could pee so much!!
When we just got her, she would pee on the mat at the front door or on the mat at the back door. This was ok since at least she was at the door...I even bought the training pads from the pet store which was supposed to encourage her to pee on them...guess what....that's just not true...the dog used it a total of twice.
Then she started peeing in Aaron's bed. Of course his room does have a door to a balcony. I guess she associates a door with outside, so she thinks that it's ok to pee there. Why she feels the need to pee on some sort of fabric eludes me. Aaron's sheets got washed 6 times in one week!! So now we close the doors to all the bedrooms.
Yesterday Lyra peed four times on the mat at the back door. And twice on the tile..the amazing thing is that we rarely can catch the little culprit in the act to discipline her. Last night there were 7 of us in the same area as Lyra...none of us noticed until Azam stepped in it! Of course we all got a huge laugh because his PJs got wet and he crawled on hands and knees to avoid dragging pee all over the house with his pants...no one thought that he should fold his pant legs up!! The little one followed up with two more incidents. She peed on Ansaar's bed. Of course she was romping with the Monster(Kiko) who has a tendency to treat her like a rag doll! The last time Lyra peed on Aaron's bed...granted, this one was certainly not her fault. She was sleeping in Aaron and Azam's room. The little one tried to wake Azam, who tried to wake Aaron and none of them thought to wake Ansaar who will unfailingly get up to put her out...They went back to sleep...so what's a girl to do, especially since the bedroom door was closed?
Last night I ended up doing one load of Laundry at 11.30 (Ansaar's sheets). I left the comforter and the heavy blanket for the morning. This morning, I had to do those two as well as Aaron's bed sheets and comforter which had already been washed during the day...that's an additional 5 loads of laundry...all thanks to Lyra! So in addition to doing about 20 loads of laundry per week including sheets, comforters and towels(we're a large family and everyone showers twice a day), there's now additonal doggie towels and blankets, as well as extra because of "Quick Pee" Lyra...sometimes to the tune of 30 loads of laundry a week.
No wonder I seem to be buying laundry detergent and fabric softener all the time! Of course the dryer is also getting more of a workout as well! On the bright side, we're always sleeping on freshly laundered sheets which is extremely pleasant and the house is always being mopped, so it's extremely clean.
I wonder how long before she is fully house trained...more importantly, I wonder if my Mom and I can survive that long!
When we just got her, she would pee on the mat at the front door or on the mat at the back door. This was ok since at least she was at the door...I even bought the training pads from the pet store which was supposed to encourage her to pee on them...guess what....that's just not true...the dog used it a total of twice.
Then she started peeing in Aaron's bed. Of course his room does have a door to a balcony. I guess she associates a door with outside, so she thinks that it's ok to pee there. Why she feels the need to pee on some sort of fabric eludes me. Aaron's sheets got washed 6 times in one week!! So now we close the doors to all the bedrooms.
Yesterday Lyra peed four times on the mat at the back door. And twice on the tile..the amazing thing is that we rarely can catch the little culprit in the act to discipline her. Last night there were 7 of us in the same area as Lyra...none of us noticed until Azam stepped in it! Of course we all got a huge laugh because his PJs got wet and he crawled on hands and knees to avoid dragging pee all over the house with his pants...no one thought that he should fold his pant legs up!! The little one followed up with two more incidents. She peed on Ansaar's bed. Of course she was romping with the Monster(Kiko) who has a tendency to treat her like a rag doll! The last time Lyra peed on Aaron's bed...granted, this one was certainly not her fault. She was sleeping in Aaron and Azam's room. The little one tried to wake Azam, who tried to wake Aaron and none of them thought to wake Ansaar who will unfailingly get up to put her out...They went back to sleep...so what's a girl to do, especially since the bedroom door was closed?
Last night I ended up doing one load of Laundry at 11.30 (Ansaar's sheets). I left the comforter and the heavy blanket for the morning. This morning, I had to do those two as well as Aaron's bed sheets and comforter which had already been washed during the day...that's an additional 5 loads of laundry...all thanks to Lyra! So in addition to doing about 20 loads of laundry per week including sheets, comforters and towels(we're a large family and everyone showers twice a day), there's now additonal doggie towels and blankets, as well as extra because of "Quick Pee" Lyra...sometimes to the tune of 30 loads of laundry a week.
No wonder I seem to be buying laundry detergent and fabric softener all the time! Of course the dryer is also getting more of a workout as well! On the bright side, we're always sleeping on freshly laundered sheets which is extremely pleasant and the house is always being mopped, so it's extremely clean.
I wonder how long before she is fully house trained...more importantly, I wonder if my Mom and I can survive that long!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Walks!
Today Lyra and I went out for a nice long walk. This morning she was full of energy and bouncing off the walls! The walk definitely drained most of her excess energy. As I write this, she is next to me, sleeping peacefully. As is Kiko who went for her walk with dad.
Lyra is starting to get better at not pulling on the leash, but she has her momentary slip ups! She gets very excited! One thing that we have noticed though is the amount of dog poo outside! It's very annoying that other dog owners don't pick up their dog's poo. That's definitely not being very neighbourly! I always make sure that when we take them for their walks, we always have a bag. If we ever find ourselves without one, then we finish the walk, leave the dog home, and drive and pick up the poo.
It's simple: if you're not willing to scoop, then don't get a dog! Do the responsible thing and keep our neighbourhoods beautiful and clean people!
Photo Credit: http://living.peta.org/2009/what-to-do-with-all-that-doo
Lyra is starting to get better at not pulling on the leash, but she has her momentary slip ups! She gets very excited! One thing that we have noticed though is the amount of dog poo outside! It's very annoying that other dog owners don't pick up their dog's poo. That's definitely not being very neighbourly! I always make sure that when we take them for their walks, we always have a bag. If we ever find ourselves without one, then we finish the walk, leave the dog home, and drive and pick up the poo.
It's simple: if you're not willing to scoop, then don't get a dog! Do the responsible thing and keep our neighbourhoods beautiful and clean people!
Photo Credit: http://living.peta.org/2009/what-to-do-with-all-that-doo
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Our Top Models with their Latest Accessories
Some pics of the dogs wearing their new collars and tags!
Friday, February 5, 2010
Lola the Brave!
Here's a video of Lola investigating Lyra when we first got her. Lola exerted her dominance almost immediately and the 2 dogs know that she is the pack leader! She knows no fear. Not sure if that's a good thing or bad thing. However the dogs know to behave around her!
They're Here!!!!
The collars and military tags arrived this week! I only ordered them on Sunday and they arrived yesterday! Canada post's efficiency does not cease to amaze me! Here are some pics...I'll be posting some of Kiko and Lyra modeling their newest accessories! PS the black spotting on the tags, I put there for privacy reasons! haha...I lack photoshop skills so I used good ol' paint!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Kiko's Obsession
Maybe it's just our dog, but Kiko seems to be obsessed with destroying her toys. That's why according to Azam, she cannot ever have anything nice! The dog will worry away at knots with an intensity that reminds one of people who are so high that they become totally unaware of everything around them. She fixates on the knot on the rope toys until they are totally gone. Then she heaves a sigh of relief as if she's just completed the most burdensome of tasks. The same thing happens with squeaky toys. Kiko will rip them apart until she gets to the plastic squeaky. She then proceeds to destroy the squeaky. Maybe she doesn't like the sound...perhaps it is irritating to her sensitive ears...maybe she's just curious....or maybe it's her pet peeve...or suffering from OCD....sometimes I wish that I could really speak dog!
Poor Lyra, she literally hides in order to play with her toys. It is amazing in itself that she knows that her "Mr Fox Fox" ( a little stuffed fox), her keys, and her little rubber tire must only be played with in the bedroom. She will come to the room, and play very quietly, not a whisper out of her in case the Monster (Neda and Azam's pet name for Kiko) comes searching. The odd time that Kiko discovers her in her guilty pleasure, we run to grab the toys and hide them.
Lyra tries with all her little heart to save the toys. Last night Kiko got it into her head to investigate the "Kong Wubba". You would think that she would take the purple defective one that Ansaar got on sale....No, of course not! Kiko took the perfectly good red one and proceeded to tear it apart while a helpless Lyra sat there, literally begging her to stop. Lyra can be very vocal and her howls really sounded like "no, no, no" - I kid you not! Of course, Kiko just looked at her and totally ignored her. By the end of the night, there was not too much left of that Kong Wubba!
So far the only thing that has proven indestructible is a rubber bone that we got at Old Navy of all places! That's the best $7.99 that we've ever spent on toys!
Poor Lyra, she literally hides in order to play with her toys. It is amazing in itself that she knows that her "Mr Fox Fox" ( a little stuffed fox), her keys, and her little rubber tire must only be played with in the bedroom. She will come to the room, and play very quietly, not a whisper out of her in case the Monster (Neda and Azam's pet name for Kiko) comes searching. The odd time that Kiko discovers her in her guilty pleasure, we run to grab the toys and hide them.
Lyra tries with all her little heart to save the toys. Last night Kiko got it into her head to investigate the "Kong Wubba". You would think that she would take the purple defective one that Ansaar got on sale....No, of course not! Kiko took the perfectly good red one and proceeded to tear it apart while a helpless Lyra sat there, literally begging her to stop. Lyra can be very vocal and her howls really sounded like "no, no, no" - I kid you not! Of course, Kiko just looked at her and totally ignored her. By the end of the night, there was not too much left of that Kong Wubba!
So far the only thing that has proven indestructible is a rubber bone that we got at Old Navy of all places! That's the best $7.99 that we've ever spent on toys!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Lost, Stolen or Missing Pets
I'm pretty sure that most pet owners have a constant fear of losing their pet. As the owner of 2 dogs and a parrot, our family definitely has concerns about our pets being stolen or getting lost.
I remember when we first got Lola, she flew outside the house and ended up in a tree. Luckily we were able to get her back (her wings were clipped) albeit Aaron was traumatized, and I'm sure he doesn't want to relive that moment.
Kiko has nearly gone missing twice already. The first time we were out for a walk and her harness came loose. The second time, she managed to open the gate to the backyard (she's smart like that). Luckily both times she didn't venture far and came back almost immediately.
It would be a travesty if we were to ever lose one of our pets. That's why we take so much precautions now. The backyard gate is double locked now and will be under lock and key. We always make sure that their harnesses are on just right.
Both our dogs will be getting microchipped, they always have their ID tags and collars on. They're also always being watched by one of the family members. Whenever the door is to be opened, Lola (if she is out of her cage) is taken into a room and closed in and only allowed out once the door to outside is closed.
I looked into some GPS systems out there for the dogs, however there's nothing on the market that appeals to me yet. Give it a couple more years and the technology will definitely improve. As soon as it does, I'll be one of the first in line to buy it!
What inspired this post was a news story about a woman whose dog was stolen. Her golden retriever Mobi, was stolen from her while she was shopping. She went into a store and tied the dog up outside. Moments later, a man allegedly untied the dog and walked off with him. This is absolutely horrrible! Mobi's owner takes full responsibility in that she shouldn't have left him outside unsupervised. I do agree with that, you wouldn't leave your children unsupervised at all! It's the same thing with a dog. They shouldn't be left alone while your shopping. Even if you're busy, leave them at home and take them for a supervised walk later!
Dognapping is a horrible thing. Having a black lab and a siberian husky does not make it better for us. They are on the list of most stolen dog breeds! We keep a vigilant eye on them.
Here's are 2 websites with some very useful information, I highly recommend that you check it out:
http://dogs.about.com/od/caringfordogsandpuppies/tp/lostandstolendogs.htm
http://www.doggiemanners.com/art_finding_stolen_dogs.html
Let's help find Mobi:
http://www.torontobarks.com/dogblog/view/missing-golden-retriever-mobi-needs-his-
daily-medications/
.jpg)
I remember when we first got Lola, she flew outside the house and ended up in a tree. Luckily we were able to get her back (her wings were clipped) albeit Aaron was traumatized, and I'm sure he doesn't want to relive that moment.
Kiko has nearly gone missing twice already. The first time we were out for a walk and her harness came loose. The second time, she managed to open the gate to the backyard (she's smart like that). Luckily both times she didn't venture far and came back almost immediately.
It would be a travesty if we were to ever lose one of our pets. That's why we take so much precautions now. The backyard gate is double locked now and will be under lock and key. We always make sure that their harnesses are on just right.
Both our dogs will be getting microchipped, they always have their ID tags and collars on. They're also always being watched by one of the family members. Whenever the door is to be opened, Lola (if she is out of her cage) is taken into a room and closed in and only allowed out once the door to outside is closed.
I looked into some GPS systems out there for the dogs, however there's nothing on the market that appeals to me yet. Give it a couple more years and the technology will definitely improve. As soon as it does, I'll be one of the first in line to buy it!
What inspired this post was a news story about a woman whose dog was stolen. Her golden retriever Mobi, was stolen from her while she was shopping. She went into a store and tied the dog up outside. Moments later, a man allegedly untied the dog and walked off with him. This is absolutely horrrible! Mobi's owner takes full responsibility in that she shouldn't have left him outside unsupervised. I do agree with that, you wouldn't leave your children unsupervised at all! It's the same thing with a dog. They shouldn't be left alone while your shopping. Even if you're busy, leave them at home and take them for a supervised walk later!
Dognapping is a horrible thing. Having a black lab and a siberian husky does not make it better for us. They are on the list of most stolen dog breeds! We keep a vigilant eye on them.
Here's are 2 websites with some very useful information, I highly recommend that you check it out:
http://dogs.about.com/od/caringfordogsandpuppies/tp/lostandstolendogs.htm
http://www.doggiemanners.com/art_finding_stolen_dogs.html
Let's help find Mobi:
http://www.torontobarks.com/dogblog/view/missing-golden-retriever-mobi-needs-his-
daily-medications/
.jpg)
The Decline of the Written Word!
I just heard that apparently texting, twittering, facebooking, instant messaging and the use of social networking sites are being blamed for the skyrocketing number of postsecondary students that can't write properly. The University of Waterloo says that 1/3 of students can't pass an english proficiency test.
To some degree I do agree that they are to be blamed. I personally have never used certain internet slang associated with these tools ("u", "da" etc)....I've always fully typed my words out (except for the occasional "lol" or emoticon)...it doesn't take that much more effort to type out "you" vs "u". Since we're constantly attached to our technology, eventually our bad habits become commonplace.
I've editted and marked submitted assignments that incorporated "u", "txt", lol, :0, :), ;) etc. I would never use internet slang in an essay or assignment.
You can use the symbols in your convos etc however not in assignments of professional work! Don't be lazy, use proper words and grammar! It's not that hard. I feel sorry for the children that have only grown up with using internet slang. It's as if though they're learning internet slang before they actually learn to write properly!
We've been lucky in that our parents and grandparents took the time to teach us to read and write properly (not leaving us to depend on the declining level of education). We were always encouraged to use proper grammar and words when typing and writing and not internet slang.
Some of the kids today only know to use internet slang. I feel sorry for them because ultimately it will make things difficult for them in school (well maybe not, because as with each passing year the level of education decreases that is until you hit university or college!).
Use real words people! Don't be lazy, type "you" and not "u". It isn't that much more effort!
Idling Buses!
In Toronto we have an anti-idling law that is meant to deter drivers from unecessarily idling. If caught idling for more than a few minutes then you can get a ticket for $125.00.
Apparently the TTC is exempt for this law. Dozens upon dozens of buses idle at a time for hours on end(sometimes for hours) in the bus stations because apparently the TTC antifreeze sytem that is supposed to prevent this does not work properly when the temperature drops to -8. Seriously?
This is hugely contributing to the air pollution problem and I'm sure it's not pleasant for the people that live around those areas!
The TTC should be held accountable for this and all they can do is apologize for the inconvenience it is causing. We non-TTC folk get taxed to the max on things and don't receive special treatment and here the buses are receiving an exemption from this law? It's ridiculous. Essentially because I have a car I am penalized for this privledge. I would think that the "environmentally" responsible way of travelling would be more effective.
Even buses that are speeding don't get ticketed as often as the regular driver. I guess being owned by the city has its special priviledges, being that you're exempt from any responsibility. I think it's time that they are treated like everyone else. Especially since it is our taxes that pay for these services!
Apparently the TTC is exempt for this law. Dozens upon dozens of buses idle at a time for hours on end(sometimes for hours) in the bus stations because apparently the TTC antifreeze sytem that is supposed to prevent this does not work properly when the temperature drops to -8. Seriously?
This is hugely contributing to the air pollution problem and I'm sure it's not pleasant for the people that live around those areas!
The TTC should be held accountable for this and all they can do is apologize for the inconvenience it is causing. We non-TTC folk get taxed to the max on things and don't receive special treatment and here the buses are receiving an exemption from this law? It's ridiculous. Essentially because I have a car I am penalized for this privledge. I would think that the "environmentally" responsible way of travelling would be more effective.
Even buses that are speeding don't get ticketed as often as the regular driver. I guess being owned by the city has its special priviledges, being that you're exempt from any responsibility. I think it's time that they are treated like everyone else. Especially since it is our taxes that pay for these services!
Hands Free Law in Full Effect!
As of yesterday, the hands free law in Ontario is in full effect! The law has been in effect for a while now, however the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has just been issuing warnings for the past couple of months. Now they are no longer warning they are ticketing people. If you're caught using an electronic device behind the wheel (talking, texting or using a handheld device) you'll be fined $150.00. Talking or texting at a stop light is also against the law!
If you don't have a handsfree device, get one! Most cars come with bluetooth capabilities now and most of the handsfree devices are priced fairly!
Police can tell when drivers are distracted, so don't try and hide the fact that you're texting while driving!
If you absolutely have to use your device and do not have a handsfree device then pull over and stop somewhere safe!
If talking, texting or not paying attention while on your phone you increase your chances of getting involved in an accident.
My best advice don't do it! Even in other places where there is no law preventing the use of handheld devices while driving, I recommend not using it! It's a hazard to yourself and those around you.
Be safe and smart!
Monday, February 1, 2010
Peace and Quiet??? You've got to be kidding!!!
Aaron was on the phone yesterday and made a comment to Nikki (his girlfriend) in response to her "what's all that noise?" that it's never quiet in our house. That got me thinking....and he's right. If peace and quiet is what you need to live a fulfilling life, then our house is not the place to be!
There is always a conversation happening...a bird screeching....a dog barking...another dog howling....a person with Alzheimers singing loudly at 2.00 am...people calling out to each other ( heaven forbid we use the intercom!)...
We are a family of strong opinions who do not believe in sugar-coating anything. We can be very diplomatic with those outside our home, but brutal honesty has always been our way. This can sometimes lead to what I call "discussions". These discussions can be a bit loud, but never ever malicious. Simple things like whether to move a computer into the basement to make way for the new tv that Azam bought can lead to heated discourse. I think that we surprised Nikki that day, because everyone has an opinion and everyone voices it. Or Ansaar harassing Azam when he came home from work with Azam getting to the point where I thought that he would either explode or cry or both! Or me, yelling to get the dogs out of the way when I was cleaning, and being told that yelling never accomplished anything, unless it made me feel better...which I have to admit..it did make me feel better! Or my husband being a total .......(fill in with whatever you want) all because he was not feeling well- allergies acting up. The joys of living in a houseful of Alpha beings! Regardless, we all love each other and will do anything for each other (eg sharing our home with dogs when some of us really would have preferred not to). Issues are resolved, not left to simmer and worsen, or left in the hope that by ignoring it, it will resolve itself or disappear. There is a lot of love in the house, just not the blindly obedient kind of love that I grew up with. Respect and love is earned. We see each others' flaws, but can make allowances and still accept each other for who we are.
Of course this has seemed to dictate the type of pets that have ended up co-existing with us. Except for the fish, Lola (the parrot) and Kiko and Lyra (the dogs) are also all alpha personalities. Luckily Lyra is still a puppy, so she still wants to please everyone, but I can already see her expressing her individuality. It seems strange, but Lola is the more dominant one of the three - perhaps because she was there first? Maybe because she is more of a being that dispenses her affections very selectively (mostly to Azam and Ansaar)?
Come to think of it no wonder my Mom likes when we are all at work(the doggies go to work with us) or at school....she ends up with a bit of peace and quiet....now if only she could figure out how to get the bird and my Dad to both be quiet!!!
There is always a conversation happening...a bird screeching....a dog barking...another dog howling....a person with Alzheimers singing loudly at 2.00 am...people calling out to each other ( heaven forbid we use the intercom!)...
We are a family of strong opinions who do not believe in sugar-coating anything. We can be very diplomatic with those outside our home, but brutal honesty has always been our way. This can sometimes lead to what I call "discussions". These discussions can be a bit loud, but never ever malicious. Simple things like whether to move a computer into the basement to make way for the new tv that Azam bought can lead to heated discourse. I think that we surprised Nikki that day, because everyone has an opinion and everyone voices it. Or Ansaar harassing Azam when he came home from work with Azam getting to the point where I thought that he would either explode or cry or both! Or me, yelling to get the dogs out of the way when I was cleaning, and being told that yelling never accomplished anything, unless it made me feel better...which I have to admit..it did make me feel better! Or my husband being a total .......(fill in with whatever you want) all because he was not feeling well- allergies acting up. The joys of living in a houseful of Alpha beings! Regardless, we all love each other and will do anything for each other (eg sharing our home with dogs when some of us really would have preferred not to). Issues are resolved, not left to simmer and worsen, or left in the hope that by ignoring it, it will resolve itself or disappear. There is a lot of love in the house, just not the blindly obedient kind of love that I grew up with. Respect and love is earned. We see each others' flaws, but can make allowances and still accept each other for who we are.
Of course this has seemed to dictate the type of pets that have ended up co-existing with us. Except for the fish, Lola (the parrot) and Kiko and Lyra (the dogs) are also all alpha personalities. Luckily Lyra is still a puppy, so she still wants to please everyone, but I can already see her expressing her individuality. It seems strange, but Lola is the more dominant one of the three - perhaps because she was there first? Maybe because she is more of a being that dispenses her affections very selectively (mostly to Azam and Ansaar)?
Come to think of it no wonder my Mom likes when we are all at work(the doggies go to work with us) or at school....she ends up with a bit of peace and quiet....now if only she could figure out how to get the bird and my Dad to both be quiet!!!
FURminator
Lyra and Kiko had another appointment with the FURminator yesterday! For those of you who don't know, it's the best deshedding tool out there and greatly helps with the hair problem!
When we first did Kiko, it was a shock as to how much hair came off of her. I never knew that one dog could have so much! I was a bit skeptical initially, I mean how can the videos on their website be real. Newsflash, they are very real! One single FURminator treatment, removes so much hair. She looked like an entirely new dog afterwards!
The FURminator works by removing the undercoat and loose hair. There is no harm done to the dog at all.
We had a deshedder tool previously, but it pales in comparison to the FURminator.
Even though Lyra is small, everytime I use it, it's like I remove and entire dog's worth of fur from her!
Luckily after a couple of treatments, the hair being removed lessens and the dog doesn't need to be FURminated as often! Also in combination with the tool, we use the deShedding shampoo, deShedding solution and the FURminator deShedding dog food supplement. It's a miracle indeed.
I highly recommend grooming your pet yourself instead of taking them to the groomers. It allows you to spend lots of one on one time with them! If you don't have the time then a groomer would work, but I find the dog is more relaxed in a home environment.
The FURminator can be found at your local Petsmart location or check out their website for other vendors as well as some videos and more information on the product:
http://www.furminator.com/
PS the collars were shipped today, and will be arriving on Thursday! :)
Friday, January 29, 2010
Puppy Class
As of January 10th, Lyra and I have been attending puppy classes! It so far has definitely been worth the money despite what Azam says about it not having any value! Both she and I have been learning lots and she's been doing amazingly well! Her trainer, Jon, is very impressed with her progress! The only thing though, is every time we go to Petsmart (her classes are through them), she has to say hi to everyone, so walking to the training centre, doesn't take the 2 minutes it normally does, instead it takes 15! But I rather have her be friendly that aggressive towards other people and animals!
She's learned sit, down, leave it, take it, stand and we've been practicing her loose leash walking. They combine hand signals, luring and clicker training. We definitely enjoy our classes!
She's also been able to make a new friend Nikkita! Nikkita is also turning 4 months and is a German Sheppard.
I highly recommend that all first time dog owners take some classes. I like the classes that Petsmart offers because it allows me to work with her. Other obedience classes that we've looked at, requires us to leave her in the care of a trainer and just visit her. It also requires a committment from the owner. Her class is about an hour long, however we practice everyday! I've gained much knowledge and have learned different techniques for training! It's a great way to spend one on one time with her. We look forward to our weekly classes! We're going into week 4!
The Petsmart classes were also a great deal. We paid, $120 for 8 weeks of classes. It's 1 one hour long class each week.
I also recommend taking your dog to as many places as possible so that they can grow accustomed to traveling. Lyra is very well behaved in the car and loves going for rides. Also our weekly visit to the pet store allows her to meet and socialize with other dogs!
I'm also going to take Kiko to some classes for older dogs!
She's learned sit, down, leave it, take it, stand and we've been practicing her loose leash walking. They combine hand signals, luring and clicker training. We definitely enjoy our classes!
She's also been able to make a new friend Nikkita! Nikkita is also turning 4 months and is a German Sheppard.
I highly recommend that all first time dog owners take some classes. I like the classes that Petsmart offers because it allows me to work with her. Other obedience classes that we've looked at, requires us to leave her in the care of a trainer and just visit her. It also requires a committment from the owner. Her class is about an hour long, however we practice everyday! I've gained much knowledge and have learned different techniques for training! It's a great way to spend one on one time with her. We look forward to our weekly classes! We're going into week 4!
The Petsmart classes were also a great deal. We paid, $120 for 8 weeks of classes. It's 1 one hour long class each week.
I also recommend taking your dog to as many places as possible so that they can grow accustomed to traveling. Lyra is very well behaved in the car and loves going for rides. Also our weekly visit to the pet store allows her to meet and socialize with other dogs!
I'm also going to take Kiko to some classes for older dogs!
Collars
I have found that finding cool and unique things for your dog is very difficult. Granted there are stores that sell stuff, but they're all too "cutesy" for my liking. I've been looking for a set of collars for Kiko and Lyra for a while now and so far haven't found anything that really interested me....that is until now. Most of the things online are available in US dollars and the cost to ship to Canada (even though we're just right above them) can be astronomical. I even scoured e-bay and haven't found anything to my liking.
I discovered this website over the weekend, and they're Canadian with Canadian prices!!! They have some really nice stuff that I haven't seen anywhere else. Dogcollars.ca is offers dog collars and leashes for the modern, trendy, Canadian dog! Their collars and leashes are spectacular. Needless to say I'll be ordering for Lyra and the Kikster!
I'm thinking for Lyra: Hampton June Bug or the Espadrille Mojito (it'll go nicely with her eyes)or the Newport Sky
For Kiko: Madison Classic, Derby Stripe Truffle or the Montauk Sea.
For now, I'll get them one each and then eventually buy some more, after all a girl does need fashion choices! (and she needs to coordinate with what Ansaar is wearing! lol). I love the variety of colours they have.
They ship all over Canada for $5.00 and 10% of their profits are donated to dog rescues!
They sell mainly Nylon collars, which I think are the better choice of the available materials out there!
The collars also have matching leashes. For now I think we'll just go with the collars.
I'll add pics once they arrive, I'll be ordering tonight!
Here's the website:
http://www.dogcollars.ca/
I discovered this website over the weekend, and they're Canadian with Canadian prices!!! They have some really nice stuff that I haven't seen anywhere else. Dogcollars.ca is offers dog collars and leashes for the modern, trendy, Canadian dog! Their collars and leashes are spectacular. Needless to say I'll be ordering for Lyra and the Kikster!
I'm thinking for Lyra: Hampton June Bug or the Espadrille Mojito (it'll go nicely with her eyes)or the Newport Sky
For Kiko: Madison Classic, Derby Stripe Truffle or the Montauk Sea.
For now, I'll get them one each and then eventually buy some more, after all a girl does need fashion choices! (and she needs to coordinate with what Ansaar is wearing! lol). I love the variety of colours they have.
They ship all over Canada for $5.00 and 10% of their profits are donated to dog rescues!
They sell mainly Nylon collars, which I think are the better choice of the available materials out there!
The collars also have matching leashes. For now I think we'll just go with the collars.
I'll add pics once they arrive, I'll be ordering tonight!
Here's the website:
http://www.dogcollars.ca/
Military Dogtags!
I found this wicked website that creates actual dogtags for your dog! I'm tired of the typical ones (e.g. the tiring bone version or typical circular tag) out there and have been looking for the military style ones. I went to a store in the mall that does engraving and it's way overpriced! Mydogtag.ca is absolutely amazing!
There is a dogtag generator that allows you to preview your purchase before buying. It's a very simple process and the end result is awesome! They have a variety of styles to choose from which include: U.S. Army Dogtag, U.S. Marine Corps Dogtag, U.S. Special Forces Dogtag, U.S. Navy Dogtag, U.S. Air Force Dogtag, Notched WWII Style Dogtag, Semper Fi Dogtag, Canadian Armed Forces Dogtag and even the Wolverine Dogtag! You can customize the information on it as well. The best part is that it's not at all expensive! They range from $7.99 CAD - $14.99 CAD and you get 2 tags each. Definitely worth it to give your pet a cool set of tags! You can choose from a variety of silencers (mom likes to hear the jingle so she knows where they're at at all times) and fastners (these are all included in the price).
I've ordered a set for Lyra and Kiko. I can't wait for it to come!
Here's the website:
http://www.mydogtag.ca/order.php
There is a dogtag generator that allows you to preview your purchase before buying. It's a very simple process and the end result is awesome! They have a variety of styles to choose from which include: U.S. Army Dogtag, U.S. Marine Corps Dogtag, U.S. Special Forces Dogtag, U.S. Navy Dogtag, U.S. Air Force Dogtag, Notched WWII Style Dogtag, Semper Fi Dogtag, Canadian Armed Forces Dogtag and even the Wolverine Dogtag! You can customize the information on it as well. The best part is that it's not at all expensive! They range from $7.99 CAD - $14.99 CAD and you get 2 tags each. Definitely worth it to give your pet a cool set of tags! You can choose from a variety of silencers (mom likes to hear the jingle so she knows where they're at at all times) and fastners (these are all included in the price).
I've ordered a set for Lyra and Kiko. I can't wait for it to come!
Here's the website:
http://www.mydogtag.ca/order.php
Monday, January 25, 2010
Hair, Hair, Hair!
One of the joys that come with sharing space with our four-legged friends is the never-ending battle to eliminate hair!
When Kiko and lyra started sharing our space, I literally felt as though I was drowning in a sea of dog hair. I am a bit of a clean freak, so imagine my predicament...I was constantly sweeping...between my Mom and I, we were quite literally cleaning house as long as we were awake...sweeping and or using a floor swiffer six and seven times a day, plus mopping several times... to eliminate the hair, as well as that wonderful doggie aroma!
Thank goodness for the internet! We discovered the "FURMINATOR" website. The most amazing de-shedding tool available for dogs. There's also shampoos and nutrtion supplements.
We have eliminated processed dog food from their diet. They now have an almost daily bath...finally found use for that mega tub in the washroom!! We use a variety of shampoos in rotation - an oatmeal shampoo that we purchased from the vet, the furminator shampoo and solution, another shed control shampoo from the pet store, as well as a black pearl (for Kiko) and a white pearl (for Lyra). Combined with a twice a week de-shed with the furminator, and a regular brushing the rest of the time, the hair, while still there has been reduced to an almost tolerable level ( no hair would be my ideal - but that was in the pre-doggie days - I can still dream, can't I?). Now I find that we can safely sweep twice a day and only swiffer and mop once a day and the floors remain in tolerable condition. Kiko and Lyra no longer have that "eau de doggie" smell...all is fairly well.
When Kiko and lyra started sharing our space, I literally felt as though I was drowning in a sea of dog hair. I am a bit of a clean freak, so imagine my predicament...I was constantly sweeping...between my Mom and I, we were quite literally cleaning house as long as we were awake...sweeping and or using a floor swiffer six and seven times a day, plus mopping several times... to eliminate the hair, as well as that wonderful doggie aroma!
Thank goodness for the internet! We discovered the "FURMINATOR" website. The most amazing de-shedding tool available for dogs. There's also shampoos and nutrtion supplements.
We have eliminated processed dog food from their diet. They now have an almost daily bath...finally found use for that mega tub in the washroom!! We use a variety of shampoos in rotation - an oatmeal shampoo that we purchased from the vet, the furminator shampoo and solution, another shed control shampoo from the pet store, as well as a black pearl (for Kiko) and a white pearl (for Lyra). Combined with a twice a week de-shed with the furminator, and a regular brushing the rest of the time, the hair, while still there has been reduced to an almost tolerable level ( no hair would be my ideal - but that was in the pre-doggie days - I can still dream, can't I?). Now I find that we can safely sweep twice a day and only swiffer and mop once a day and the floors remain in tolerable condition. Kiko and Lyra no longer have that "eau de doggie" smell...all is fairly well.
Friday, January 22, 2010
The Joys of Being Female
So now Kiko is in heat. I am learning more about dogs in heat than I ever cared to know!
The first night she was moaning as if in pain with a restlessness that reminds me of myself when I am in her condition. It's as if she just does not know what to do with herself. I ended up staying awake with her until the wee hours of the morning when she finally settled down - wouldn't you know it, she left and went to sleep with Azam! So I provided care and he reaps the benefit of a calm dog.
Poor thing, she now has to suffer the indignity of having her female parts being wiped constantly. Thank goodness the bleeding is still minimal! We've tried the doggie diapers, which are expensive. The largest size is XL ' cause she is a big girl - not an effective way since they come apart as soon as she moves. Lyra also pulls them off. We tried adult "Depends", but they fall down when she moves, plus we have to cut an opening for her tail which loosens the lining of the diaper. Our next trial was with regular human panties (doggie panties are very expensive) and sanitary napkins. Eureka! They worked! I should patent this idea!
Kiko showed a remarkable amount of patience with our shenanigans, co-operating quietly as we subjected her to our inexperience. Perhaps she understood at some level that we were trying to help her. Maybe she just figured "silly humans". Or it could be her hormonal swing that's making her more submissive. At least now I know that there won't be blood or discharge wherever she sits - not a very sanitary situation for anyone.
Regardless, I am grateful that this is the only heat that we have to live through - approximatley 21 days in total. She's being spayed along with Lyra in March.
The first night she was moaning as if in pain with a restlessness that reminds me of myself when I am in her condition. It's as if she just does not know what to do with herself. I ended up staying awake with her until the wee hours of the morning when she finally settled down - wouldn't you know it, she left and went to sleep with Azam! So I provided care and he reaps the benefit of a calm dog.
Poor thing, she now has to suffer the indignity of having her female parts being wiped constantly. Thank goodness the bleeding is still minimal! We've tried the doggie diapers, which are expensive. The largest size is XL ' cause she is a big girl - not an effective way since they come apart as soon as she moves. Lyra also pulls them off. We tried adult "Depends", but they fall down when she moves, plus we have to cut an opening for her tail which loosens the lining of the diaper. Our next trial was with regular human panties (doggie panties are very expensive) and sanitary napkins. Eureka! They worked! I should patent this idea!
Kiko showed a remarkable amount of patience with our shenanigans, co-operating quietly as we subjected her to our inexperience. Perhaps she understood at some level that we were trying to help her. Maybe she just figured "silly humans". Or it could be her hormonal swing that's making her more submissive. At least now I know that there won't be blood or discharge wherever she sits - not a very sanitary situation for anyone.
Regardless, I am grateful that this is the only heat that we have to live through - approximatley 21 days in total. She's being spayed along with Lyra in March.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Let sleeping dogs lie
So the doggies are sleeping...there is quiet again. Lyra threw herself down in front Kiko and they are now curled up. A moment of calm ensues. The little ones can be so energetic. They go through periods of intense activity followed by periods of sleep.
By the way Kiko is a female Black Lab who just turned a year old on December 19th 2009. Lyra is a female Siberian Husky who turned 3 months on December 25th 2009.
I never thought that I would be taking care of one dog, let alone two! But the doggies are the innocent parties in this scenario..one cannot help but love them. They love unconditionally...no human can express that kind of sheer joy when seeing someone...except perhaps a baby when he/she sees their parent. They are good girls for the most part...except when they are chewing on cardboard or the wooden table in the warehouse.
Some back story:
Azam, my second oldest son purchased Kiko for his girlfriend, at least this is what I thought..although he kept saying that Kiko was his dog...I know, I know...we believe what we want to believe. Anyways Kiko resided at Neda's house until November 2009 when she came home for a "visit". She was supposed to go back, but was to return again in January 2010 because they were renovating their kitchen. I figured why send her back? Plus I had finally accepted that she was his dog, therefore the responsibilty for her care should be his.
Ansaar my oldest son said that he liked Siberian huskies....I should have known that those two were up to no good when he kept e-mailing me pictures of admittedly cute Siberian huskies. Then one night Lyra came home.
Coming from a background where dogs are used for guarding the home and not kept inside, it was a tremendous adjustment. To add to this my parents live with us. My Mom has her hands full taking care of my Dad who has Alzheimer's and diabetes-related complications from strokes.
So the doggies come to work with us everyday since Aaron, my youngest is in school and Ansaar and Azam both work and go to school.
Prak (my husband) loved the dogs from day one. He uncomplainingly picks up poop, bathes them and walks them. I think that it is their unconditional love that got to him. It took me a while to warm up to them...especially since they were thrust upon me. Now however, I do love them. I think that my sons know me too well. They know that I love them no matter what. They gambled and they won...'cause I am writing this while I am looking at the two dogs peacefully sleeping.
By the way Kiko is a female Black Lab who just turned a year old on December 19th 2009. Lyra is a female Siberian Husky who turned 3 months on December 25th 2009.
I never thought that I would be taking care of one dog, let alone two! But the doggies are the innocent parties in this scenario..one cannot help but love them. They love unconditionally...no human can express that kind of sheer joy when seeing someone...except perhaps a baby when he/she sees their parent. They are good girls for the most part...except when they are chewing on cardboard or the wooden table in the warehouse.
Some back story:
Azam, my second oldest son purchased Kiko for his girlfriend, at least this is what I thought..although he kept saying that Kiko was his dog...I know, I know...we believe what we want to believe. Anyways Kiko resided at Neda's house until November 2009 when she came home for a "visit". She was supposed to go back, but was to return again in January 2010 because they were renovating their kitchen. I figured why send her back? Plus I had finally accepted that she was his dog, therefore the responsibilty for her care should be his.
Ansaar my oldest son said that he liked Siberian huskies....I should have known that those two were up to no good when he kept e-mailing me pictures of admittedly cute Siberian huskies. Then one night Lyra came home.
Coming from a background where dogs are used for guarding the home and not kept inside, it was a tremendous adjustment. To add to this my parents live with us. My Mom has her hands full taking care of my Dad who has Alzheimer's and diabetes-related complications from strokes.
So the doggies come to work with us everyday since Aaron, my youngest is in school and Ansaar and Azam both work and go to school.
Prak (my husband) loved the dogs from day one. He uncomplainingly picks up poop, bathes them and walks them. I think that it is their unconditional love that got to him. It took me a while to warm up to them...especially since they were thrust upon me. Now however, I do love them. I think that my sons know me too well. They know that I love them no matter what. They gambled and they won...'cause I am writing this while I am looking at the two dogs peacefully sleeping.
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