Thoughts from the Bark Side

We just didn’t think another dog could ever fill the void in our hearts that was made when Shilo passed away. I think we have bigger hearts than we can know. We can never fill the holes made by those that have passed on, those of the human or animal variety. We just find new places to put the newcomers.

We had registered with the Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue (SCGR Rescue:http://scgrrescue.org. We had our home visit and passed, whew! We made inquiries about a few dogs, but none of them came through, until Pinky Tuscadero. The volunteer emailed us asking if we were interested in meeting her, we said, “of course” and a few days later we were in front of the Rose Bowl meeting our new dog. Pinky said, “OK, I approve, now let’s get out of here,” and off we went. We made a quick stop at the pet store. She selected a nice bed, new collar and a few toys. We also had her name changed to Shelby for the engraved tag. Pinkey was the name they used at the rescue and was not her previous name so we figured it was OK. She very much agreed with the change.

When we arrived, Shelby immediately approved her home and yard. That evening she was greeting by a large raccoon peering over the fence at her. No barking (from Shelby, not the raccoon), just staring until she got bored, and called it a night. However, she does remember where the raccoon had been and now revisits that spot every outing just in case he returns.

So it seems we have already gotten into a routine. She seems to love her walks. I’m not sure she has ever had one of those before. She knows how to sit, but we definitely have to work on stay, heel, and down. She is now curled up at my feet under my desk. Oh, she is only 65 pounds, half the weight of Shilo when we adopted him. Whereas Shilo was bigger than a normal golden, she is smaller. She is just past 3 years old. Her owners had dropped her off at the pound saying they just didn’t have the time to take care of her. And she does bark, as we discovered when the gardeners came by. It took Shilo over a month to let out a bark.

So we will continue to get to know each other. We do want to be the best humans possible for her, and I know she is equally trying to be a good dog, and she is, a very good dog indeed.
Cheers,
Susan

Hi,
First, to get an idea the size and scope of the Station Fire, CLICK HERE. It is an incredible photo essay of the fire. (Thanks Sharon for sending me the link!)

I attended another CERT call-out Thursday which was 6 pm to midnight. This one was much more manageable, especially with the sun going down and the heat dissipating. I got there early to walk around and take some photos.

I came to understand that some of the engines and support units had already been relocated. The sea of tents were fewer and the rows and rows of fire engines, tenders and trucks were less in number also. However, this time I had an opportunity to really see what was going on.

I did take some photos before my shift, but then as I was assigned to “foot patrol” I was able to shoot a few more. I was assigned with a fellow CERT volunteer, and a LA Sheriff’s Civilian Volunteer. Mostly our assignment was to answer questions, give directions and just have a presence there. It was basically just walking around, but I did enjoy it. The other positions were traffic control and a few positions were just to remind the police not carry their weapons into a specific area. Some CERT members had been there for days, going home for a few hours of sleep and then back again. Incredible dedication.

Click here for photos of the Station Fire base camp

Though the base camp was slightly less populated, it was still an amazing area. They had huge sleeper units, semis with air conditioners where the fire fighters could go and get some much deserved rest. There were shower units, sink units for shaving and brushing of teeth, a laundry facility and of course, what would base camp be without a chow line. This night they were serving steak and baked potatoes. Oh, a few of the support trucks had TV’s. Some firefighters had pulled up chairs to watch football on ESPN (I did hear a bit of snoring however.)

Right now the fire is about 50% contained, has burned 154,000 acres. It has been ruled arson and thus whoever set it when found will be charged with homicide for the deaths of the two fire fighters.

The U.S. Forest Service said that the fire has displaced countless animals that are hungry, thirsty and may well wander into neighborhoods searching for food and water. I don’t want to think about those hurt and injured…and worse. What kind of monster sets fires? I just can’t figure it out.

Thanks for reading. If you have the time, please look into volunteering.
Cheers,
Susan

Hello,
Yesterday I attended my first emergency “call-out” as a certified CERT member. The instructions were to go to the “Station Fire” base camp and to assist however we could in the efforts to fight this rampaging blaze. CERT does not fight the blaze, we are, let’s say, the caulk in any gaps that are needed in helping the support efforts. In my case, I did traffic control.

At this writing, the fire is now 85,000 sq. acres or 134 sq. miles. To see a map of this fire, CLICK HERE. It is updated every few hours and as needed. It is the worst fire in this area that I can remember and I have lived in LA for 30 years. Power is now in danger, as well as some emergency communications, radio and television (cable not affected.) It is only 5% contained.

What I saw while driving in with my neighbor and fellow CERT member yesterday at 5:30 am, was something we have never seen on TV. We were coming in the opposite direction of the CERT call-out instructions, so we were not sure where the CERT station was located. We turned into the first place we could and though it was not where we need to go, we were astounded at what we saw. An entire CITY was set up. As far as you could see were legions of fire fighters, equipment & rigs, mobile command posts for all agencies and tents, a sea of tents. It was dark and so incredibly smokey this base camp seemed to have sprung up like Brigadoon, but in truth it had only been there for three days and was hardly bucolic. It was eerie, the way the smoke was captured in the emergency lights. Shadows of all these emergency workers in determined crossing paths, getting ready for another hellacious day. I didn’t take photos of this, it was almost too intrusive, and probably why we do not see this on TV.

Fire fighters, sheriffs, and police and all sorts of support personnel were swarming the area. We saw fire fighters all over, crossing the dirt road while brushing their teeth, and many carrying plates of food, all before going back out on the line. We drove around until finally asking a commander if he knew where the CERT post was. We got our directions but before we drove off, he thanked us for coming and said how much he appreciated OUR efforts. CAN YOU IMAGINE? These are the guys putting their lives on the line and they are thanking us. That happened through-out the day. I would wave some police or fire fighters through the intersection, and they said thanks for doing this. Wow.

The base camp was stretched along about a mile. Every type of fire fighting equipment was parked in the make-shift parking area and hundreds of police cars and motorcycles were along the road. There were few jobs for us that early, so we just waited for instructions. At about 8:00 the massive roll out started and it lasted for a solid half an hour. This was all the equipment and fire-fighters Juliana and I saw in the camp a few hours earlier. Rigs from the forestry services from all over, every county and city of LA was represented, rigs from Wyoming, Montana and Arizona drove by all carrying the scores of fire fighters, men and women, going back on the line. Hundreds of fire trucks passed by us to get up to the freeway to carry them to the heart of the fire. Since the Governor declared this a emergency, they also rolled the special Search and Rescue trucks. We were in awe. You cannot but feel incredibly humbled by seeing this, the mass of men and women going to protect us.

The weather was brutal. No breeze and it was about 105 degrees and about 8% humidity. I drank 4 bottles of water and 2 bottles of gatorade, but still got a nasty headache that sent us home after just an eight hour shift (we found out after asking to be released the shift was 12 hours.) I was sick as a dog that night, totally incapacitated from the heat, smoke (I did wear my particle mask most of the day) and the headache. How do these firefighters do it? I was nowhere near the heat of the fire nor did I have to carry the weight of all the equipment and heavy clothing they must wear and I was miserable, focused, but miserable. (I sure didn’t want to cause two fire engines to collide. That would be rather embarrassing. Lose focus, time to go home. As they say in CERT, do not become the victim! Amen.)

Captain Stacy Gerlich is the CERT Unit Commander for the City of Los Angeles. She has to figure out where our resources are needed and how we are then deployed and if and when a new call-out is needed (it is an automated call to our cell phones and to our email.) She has done so much to promote CERT in the LA community and to organize us into a functioning entity. Our thanks to her especially. I have to thank the other CERT members, those far more hardy than I that stayed on for the full 12 hours. You are amazing.

Thank you and blessings to the firefighters. We share in your loss of your fellow fire fighters, and our prayers and thoughts are with you and their families. It was a tragic accident. We hope we get the change in weather that we need to help this impossible and inexplicable situation. You need a well deserved rest, in air conditioning, and to be home with your families.
Susan

Hi all,
Yes, we haven’t written for a while. Our lovely Shilo passed away yesterday. We are heartbroken as you can imagine. I really don’t have any words, but will let my wonderful husband say it all with his “Tribute to Shilo.”

Shilo, a faithful friend and companion passed away peacefully in his home of nearly 9 years and in the arms of his loving humans on a beautifully sunny California morning on August 10, 2009.

He was born on November 15, 1997 in Moreno Valley, CA, to Buster Brass Weigand and Rebecca of Sunnymead Orchard and later adopted by Susan and Bob of Sun Valley, CA on November 20, 2000.

He never graduated from college or even high school but did get high marks from his doggie training classes. Although he never won any awards, other than getting an “A” after coming home from an appointment with his groomer, he did receive fantastic and delightful accolades from authoring his first and only book, E-Mails from Shilo.

Among other things Shilo loved music. In his younger years he would sleep under the piano while Bob practiced. It seemed to put him in a very special and peaceful place. He especially loved jazz…the music of choice to be played while Susan and Bob were both out of the house.

He was eternally happy and loved his home and especially his back yard where he could lay out in the sun, chase balls or an occasional squirrel and take a nice leisurely swim in the pool. Giving him a pat on the head, a rub on his tummy, a nice walk, going out front to get the newspaper, a favorite treat or a plush toy to tear apart made him the happiest dog in the world.

He LOVED people and would greet every human…adult or child…with extraordinary respect and affection. It was his special way of putting smiles on their faces and happiness in their hearts.

Shilo had an incredible sense of humor and enjoyed showing off his “theatrics” and other “talents” to anyone who would watch. Because he was such a special spirit, he always left people feeling happy and better about themselves. He created warmth and affection in others but asked for nothing in return. His compensation was putting grins on faces and a “gee wiz” spirit in their souls.

Because of his daily neighborhood walks he soon became known as his community’s unofficial mayor. Neighbors would come out of their homes and even walk across the street to greet him and seemingly share in his love and wisdom.

In his local doggie park he was famous for stepping in to break-up over-aggressive, playful and rambunctious dogs with the intent of preventing fights or injuries. As a result he was soon given the nickname of “Fun Police.”

He was a brave little soldier having become a cancer survivor on two of three occasions but in the end lost his final bout. He was the world’s most wonderful dog, playmate, buddy, companion, chum, pal, sidekick and friend. Shilo, with his grace, sweet kisses, wit, hugs and sense of humor will be missed by many. He had class and style in everything he did.

“Shilo, our time together was much too short but thank you so much for your unconditional love, loyalty, tremendous joy and wonderful memories. Good job! Now that your physical aches and pains are gone, we know you’re enjoying an unrivaled and new variety of California sunshine along with the long awaited reunion with your old pals Laddie, Snickers and Crackers. Even though cats are not your “thing” give a great big shout out to Calgary, Scooter and Harley when you see them. We know you’re having a great time chasing squirrels and maybe a rabbit or two. Have a ball (pun intended), let your fur down a little and take great delight at Rainbow Bridge. May God bless and watch over you. Peace be with you always.” — Susan and Bob

Shilo is survived by Susan and Bob, his human parents, caretakers and friends.

Hi all,
The top part is from Susan and the bottom part is from Shilo!

Independence Day is not a fun time for Shilo, he hates fireworks-the noise scares the bejabbers out of him. Unfortunately, though it is illegal in Los Angeles County where we live, our neighbors break the law and set off fireworks and firecrackers sending Shilo into a proverbial quivering maelstrom of fear. Besides the danger of setting fires, we cannot believe that year after year, even after we request them not to, they still insist on setting off these fireworks “for their children.” We have long ago given up leaving the house the few days before and after the 4th as these neighbors and others keep the booming going. We need to reassure Shilo everything is OK and we are here for him!

The ASPCA sent out a instructions to all the dog loving humans just how to protect and keep our poochie safe this 4th of July. Please take it to heart and pass it on to your friends and neighbors who also have dogs in their lives. Here is what the ASPCA wrote:

Fourth of July Festivities:
Should You Bring Your Pet?
As the country dons its red, white and blue to celebrate Independence Day, nothing says patriotism like a good old-fashioned barbecue with a side of fireworks. But beware pet parents, what’s fun for people can be a downright drag for our furry friends.

The ASPCA recommends keeping your pooch indoors as much as possible during backyard parties and Fourth of July festivities, even if he is a pro picnicker. From toxic food and beverages to raucous guests and fireworks, the holiday weekend is a minefield of potential pet problems.

“Even the most timid dog can leap a six-foot fence if he’s spooked by loud noises,” says Dr. Pamela Reid, Vice President of the ASPCA Animal Behavior Center. If your dog shows signs of distress from fireworks or boisterous revelers, Dr. Reid suggests giving him a Kong toy stuffed with peanut butter. “The consistent licking should calm his nerves,” she says.

The ASPCA offers some more expert advice to keep your pet singing, “Oh Say Can You See,” all the way to the fifth and beyond:

• Keep your pet on the wagon. Since alcohol is potentially poisonous to pets, place all wine, beer and spirits well out of paws’ way.
• Avoid scraps from the grill. Stick with your pet’s normal diet—any change, even for a day, can result in stomach upset. Certain foods like onions, avocado, chocolate, grapes and raisins are especially toxic to pets.
• Avoid lathering your pet with any insect repellent or sunscreen not intended for the four-legged kind. Ingestion can result in drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy.
• Stay fire-smart. Keep your pet away from fireworks, matches, citronella candles and lighter fluid, which if eaten can irritate the stomach, lungs and central nervous system.
• Be cool near the pool. Don’t leave pets unsupervised around a pool or lake—not all dogs are expert swimmers! Also, pools aren’t large water bowls—they contain chlorine and other toxic chemicals that can cause stomach problems.

As always, if you suspect your pet has ingested something poisonous from the picnic table, please contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. And be sure to check out our more complete list of holiday pet care tips for a safe and happy Fourth!

Shilo’s Tips for a Fun Independence Day:

Stay cool-the only hot dogs should be the ones you sneak off the grill (whoops, a no-no, yeah right, can’t blame a dog for tryin’)

Protect your eyes. Sun can damage even a dog’s keen eyesight. Gotta keep those baby browns 20-20 to spy those marauding squirrels.

Stay hydrated. Insist on fresh water, and no ice cubes. Don’t want to crack those bone-chewing teeth.

BE PATRIOTIC! Take some time from the celebrating and give thanks to our heroes and heroines who gave up their lives or were injured, so we can all be free.

And to those who have served and are now serving in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines & Coast Guard…Thank you from the bottom of my doggie heart. Big licks to you!
Your buddy,
Shilo
From Susan too, but I’ll blow you a kiss in thanks!

Hi all,
With the troubled airline industry, you would think that a new, very niche airline would be a hard thing to get off the ground, (pun intended.) But here is Pet Airway with flights from Los Angeles, Denver, Chicago, Baltimore/Washington D.C., and New Jersey/New York/Tri State Area. Their first flight is due July 14th, 2009.

Here is what caught my attention. Though the animals are in crates, they are flown in the passenger area, not in the cargo area where it can be much too hot or much too cold. Their website says the animals are supervised the entire time, their “potty breaks” monitored, and when they reach their destination, they can either be picked up or boarded overnight. When moving cross country I would think this could be a God-send! Though it is still too bad that they haven’t figured out how to have our beloved pet travel next to us (other than buying him a seat like they do for Lassie) at the current price of $150 it sounds like a good deal.

So have a look at their website, again it is http://petairways.com and see for yourself. The first flight is still in the future, so before booking, I’d most certainly check out the feedback and reviews. It seems like a great idea especially with so many of the airlines now refusing to take pets, and when they do having so many regulations.
Cheers,
Susan

Hello all, Susan here (obviously because Shilo doesn’t need Victoria’s Secret since he’s a MALE!)

A few years ago, I had a most strange experience at a Victoria’s Secret, so I wrote the following letter. Just thought you might appreciate my encounter…

Victoria’s Secret Client Services
P.O. Box 16586
Columbus, Ohio 43216

To Whom It May Concern:
On Monday, June 5, 2006 I visited your Glendale, CA Galleria store. I had been in a few of your stores before, but never to buy a bra. Please humor me while I recount this very strange sport, I call, “Pass the football,” (the football being me.)

I was greeted near the entrance by a preoccupied woman and it took me a few moments to realize she was addressing me due to a large headset encircling her head. She asked what I was looking for and I said, actually I would like a new bra. “OK a bra, do you need to be measured?” she broadcasts. The whole store now knew of my impending purchase as her question filled the entire store as she tried to speak over the voices in her head. Not that I cared particularly, but heck, we are talking underwear here. I told her yes, I would need to be measured. Well, now she starts talking, but I really can’t understand her as I don’t know if she is addressing me or whomever, and she is a yard ahead with me trailing. She stops abruptly, points, and I dutifully follow her pointing finger to the dressing area as I am passed off to the “receiver.” Well, I thought I was to be passed off but I don’t see anyone and am very confused until I turn the corner and realize here was the other side of the conversation. She greets me, starts the measurements, and hands me a “box of bras.” She sort of explains it is all the bras in the store as she hastily unlocks the dressing room door and points me inside. The door closes and holding my “box of bras” I look around for a table on which to place them. No table. I put them on the floor. I’m thinking this is Victoria’s Secret, and I have to put these things on the floor? As I undress and lean over to pick up my first sample, I am humbled by “my secret” as I catch site of my middle-age upper torso in the mirror. Please, must we be subjected to so much humiliation? What is that saying you have on the inside of your shopping bags, “Give Me Sexy.” I think not. So now I methodically go through every single bra not knowing one from the other and feel guilty I have to place the rejects on the floor which I figure they have visited on numerous occasions. No table!

I make my selection of two styles, and as I start to dress, the door flies open and there I am, yes, topless, staring at the sales clerk and two customers. She says sorry, and slams the door shut. Remember, I’m definitely in the higher end of middle age, I’m in good shape, but still! How about a knock or better a latch on the inside!!???

I’m now dressed, I emerge from the “undressing room” balancing the infamous “box of bras” and my two selections, and the receiver announces that the football (me) is back in play and I am punted to the next player. The next receiver intercepts me and I go to inspect, “drawer number one.” She points and says , “Pick a color,” “I would like it in beige,” I reply. “Well, we don’t have that style in beige,” she states. Can’t it say that on the samples? You have the biggest security tags I’ve ever seen attached to each “beige” sample. Can’t you just have a tag that shows the colors they come in? OK, I settle for pink in that style because I sure as heck am not going back to the locker room. We go to drawer number two, and hallelujah, it comes in beige. The football now goes back into play, and a cashier is summoned and I make my purchases. I get home and discover, that there was a major penalty on the play. One of the bras is the wrong size. Sigh. This football feels very deflated.

Now, why do I use football metaphors? Because I cannot believe a woman was within a mile of this place when it was designed, planned, and “choreographed.” I need whomever reads this to understand what the heck I am saying which I figure will be male, and hence, the sports metaphors. Perhaps one of your wives could go in “undercover” and try it out. One of your older, executive’s wives.

Sincerely,
Susan

OK, so I sent the letter and received a nice apology and a gift card. Very much appreciated. But if I’m in the mall and I happen to stroll by the store, I do try to pop in, just to see if perhaps any changes have been made. Tables missing, check. no latches on doors, check, pass off of sales clerks, check. Susan avoiding shopping at Victoria’s Secret? Are you kidding, it is VICTORIA’S SECRET FOR HEAVENS SAKE! We do have our trials & tribulations we must go through. I guess Victoria’s Secret is mine. Could be worse, could be a problem with Home Depot!
Cheers,
Susan