I came across this very touching story and learned there is a thoughtful, loving soul working in the dead letter department of the U.S. Post Office.
Abbey and Meredith
Our 14-year-old dog, Abbey, died last month. The day after she died, my 4-year-old daughter, Meredith, was crying and talking about how much she missed Abbey. She asked if we could write a letter to God so that when Abbey got to Heaven, God would recognize her. I told her that I thought we could so she dictated these words:
Dear God,
Will you please take care of my dog? She died yesterday and is with you in Heaven. I miss her very much. I am happy that you let me have her as my dog even though she got sick.
I hope you will play with her. She likes to play with balls and to swim. I am sending a picture of her so when you see her, you will know that she is my dog. I really miss her.
Love,
Meredith
We put the letter in an envelope with a picture of Abbey and Meredith and addressed it to 'God/Heaven'. We put our return address on it. Then Meredith pasted several stamps on the front of the envelope because she said it would take lots of stamps to get the letter all the way to Heaven.
That afternoon she dropped it into the letter box at the post office. A few days later, she asked if God had gotten the letter yet. I told her that I thought He had.
Yesterday, there was a package wrapped in gold paper on our front porch addressed to Meredith in an unfamiliar hand. Meredith opened it. Inside was a book by Mr. Rogers called, 'When a Pet Dies' Taped to the inside front cover was the letter we had written to God in its opened envelope. On the opposite page was the picture of Abbey & Meredith and this note:
Dear Meredith,
Abbey arrived safely in Heaven. Having the picture was a big help. I recognized Abbey right away. Abbey isn't sick anymore. Her spirit is here with me just like it stays in your heart. Abbey loved being your dog. Since we don't need our bodies in Heaven, I don't have any pockets to keep your picture in, so I am sending it back to you in this little book for you to keep and have something to remember Abbey by.
Thank you for the beautiful letter and thank your mother for helping you write it and send it to me. What a wonderful mother you have. I picked her especially for you.
I send my blessings every day and remember that I love you very much. By the way, I'm easy to find, I am wherever there is love.
Love,
God
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Quality Time
Do you ever wonder if your animals get enough of your attention?
If you worry about whether or not your dog gets quality time with you daily, you're not alone.
Most dogs like to just be around you. When left alone the effect of your absence has on your dog can depend in large part on the quality of attention that you give your dog once you are home.
So if you are gone a lot, make sure that the time you do spend with your dog is quality time. Dr. Jon recommends a few ways you can make the most of your time together.
1. Go for a long walk. (It will be good for both of you.)
2. Make sure your dog has plenty of opportunities to exercise. If your dog has a lot of energy, make sure he is able and has the opportunity to work it off. Wear him out until he is good and tired.
3. Spend some quiet time together. While you watch TV, read the paper or do some work, talk to you dog and let him know that you are there and that you care.
4. Provide plenty of play toys. When you are there or away, make sure your dog has plenty of toys to play with to keep him entertained. But dogs can get bored with the same old toy, day in and day out. A choice of several toys can make a day a lot more interesting for a dog.
5. Make sure your dog is healthy. Take care of any medical problems, such as allergies, pain, skin irritations or fleas. It is miserable to be alone all day and not feel well, so keeping your dog healthy will also help keep him content.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Tips For Mealtime Ritual
What is mealtime for your dog at home like?
Feeding your dog is the perfect time to work on the pack dynamic and reinforce positive behavior. Here are some tips from Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer, to make mealtime not only about providing sustenance, but also a time to help your dog become happier and more balanced.
Make your dog work - In a natural setting, animals must work for food. Wild dogs and other canines have to track their prey over long distances. Mimic this by taking a long walk with your dog just before mealtime. The physical activity will keep her in tune with her natural instincts.
Create a regular routine - Have your dog sit as you prepare the food. Make sure she maintains calm and submissive energy while she waits. You may find this regimen strict, but it will encourage your dog to maintain a balanced state.
Stay calm and assertive - Humans will sometimes talk and signal in a high energy manner before they feed their dog. The dog becomes excited based on the owner's energy which, if repeated every time the dog is fed, can create lasting behavior problems or make existing problems worse. By remaining calm before mealtime, you will help your dog do the same.
Don't reward negative behavior - Anxiety, territorial behavior, and aggression can all manifest when you feed your dog. The reoccurrence of these behaviors is almost guaranteed when you "reward" your dog by feeding her after she displays any of these habits. Be patient! Wait until your dog is in the balanced state you desire before you give her food.
Feeding your dog is the perfect time to work on the pack dynamic and reinforce positive behavior. Here are some tips from Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer, to make mealtime not only about providing sustenance, but also a time to help your dog become happier and more balanced.
Make your dog work - In a natural setting, animals must work for food. Wild dogs and other canines have to track their prey over long distances. Mimic this by taking a long walk with your dog just before mealtime. The physical activity will keep her in tune with her natural instincts.
Create a regular routine - Have your dog sit as you prepare the food. Make sure she maintains calm and submissive energy while she waits. You may find this regimen strict, but it will encourage your dog to maintain a balanced state.
Stay calm and assertive - Humans will sometimes talk and signal in a high energy manner before they feed their dog. The dog becomes excited based on the owner's energy which, if repeated every time the dog is fed, can create lasting behavior problems or make existing problems worse. By remaining calm before mealtime, you will help your dog do the same.
Don't reward negative behavior - Anxiety, territorial behavior, and aggression can all manifest when you feed your dog. The reoccurrence of these behaviors is almost guaranteed when you "reward" your dog by feeding her after she displays any of these habits. Be patient! Wait until your dog is in the balanced state you desire before you give her food.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Insight For Dog Lovers
The more you learn about dog psychology, the better you will be able to connect with your canine companion.
Here is some advice from The Dog Whisper, Cesar Millan:
Dogs are not humans. Before they receive love and affection, they need exercise, clear direction, and leadership. Giving them love alone doesn’t create balance in their lives. Be a pack leader!
Rehabilitating a dog is not about “fixing” it. It’s about you, the owner, creating the intention for what you want, not what you’re feeling. Dogs pick up on feelings of fear, doubt, or worry – and they will move to fill them by attempting to become dominant.
Practice unwavering leadership every day, especially on your walk. The energy you’re projecting internally is the message you’re sending to your dog.
Dedicate at least 45 minutes of time to the dog’s walk in the morning. Let the dog know you have a consistent pattern that you expect it to follow. Utilize your dog’s energy in a positive manner.
Don’t expect more from your dog(s) than your own children. Dogs need discipline, too. Give them rules, boundaries, and limitations as well as love.
Avoid nurturing your dog’s fears or unstable mind. Imagine a successful scenario and hold it in your mind when dealing with your dog.
You are the source of your dog’s energy. You are the role model.
Challenge the dog’s mind – dogs want to know what to do with their lives. Let the dog work for your affection. Once in a calm-submissive state, your love will intensify those qualities in your dog.
Dogs need “on” and “off” time. Engage them fully in structured times together; then they can relax and avoid impatient or destructive behaviors.
Dogs show us how much we can learn – they live in the moment. Try it!
Here is some advice from The Dog Whisper, Cesar Millan:
Dogs are not humans. Before they receive love and affection, they need exercise, clear direction, and leadership. Giving them love alone doesn’t create balance in their lives. Be a pack leader!
Rehabilitating a dog is not about “fixing” it. It’s about you, the owner, creating the intention for what you want, not what you’re feeling. Dogs pick up on feelings of fear, doubt, or worry – and they will move to fill them by attempting to become dominant.
Practice unwavering leadership every day, especially on your walk. The energy you’re projecting internally is the message you’re sending to your dog.
Dedicate at least 45 minutes of time to the dog’s walk in the morning. Let the dog know you have a consistent pattern that you expect it to follow. Utilize your dog’s energy in a positive manner.
Don’t expect more from your dog(s) than your own children. Dogs need discipline, too. Give them rules, boundaries, and limitations as well as love.
Avoid nurturing your dog’s fears or unstable mind. Imagine a successful scenario and hold it in your mind when dealing with your dog.
You are the source of your dog’s energy. You are the role model.
Challenge the dog’s mind – dogs want to know what to do with their lives. Let the dog work for your affection. Once in a calm-submissive state, your love will intensify those qualities in your dog.
Dogs need “on” and “off” time. Engage them fully in structured times together; then they can relax and avoid impatient or destructive behaviors.
Dogs show us how much we can learn – they live in the moment. Try it!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Homemade Dog Treats
Pet stores are full of dog treats. But did you know that you can make your own healthy dog treats at home?
Here are some dog treat recipes to help you find a way to your dog's heart:
Bark-B-Q
2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 cup white flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup wheat germ
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoon honey
3 tablespoons oil
1 egg
1/2 cup water
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix barbecue sauce, honey, oil, egg, water. Add to dry ingredients. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thick and cut into 3 to 4 inch pieces. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 25 minutes at 350 F. Makes 2 1/2 dozen cookies.
Beg-for-more Peanut Butter Treats
2 tablespoons oil
1/2 cup peanut butter
1 cup water
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 1/2 cups white flour
Preheat the oven to 350 F. Combine oil, peanut butter and water. Add flour, one cup at a time, forming a dough. Knead dough into firm ball and roll to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into 3 to 4 inch pieces. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 F for 20 minutes. Makes 2 1/2 dozen cookies.
Chick'N Fingers
2 1/2 cups white flour
3/4 cup yellow cornmeal
1/4 cup chopped chicken
1 cup chicken broth
4 tablespoons softened margarine
1 egg
2 T milk
Preheat oven to 325 F. Combine flour, cornmeal, chicken, chicken broth and margarine. Form into a soft dough and knead for 3 minutes. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into 3 to 4 inch finger shapes. Beat egg and milk together and apply to top of biscuits with brush. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 325 F for 35 minutes. Makes 24 fingers.
Spicy Treat-balls
2/3 cup whole wheat flour
1/3 cup white flour
1/2 cup bran
1/2 cup brewers yeast
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons corn oil
1 egg
1/3 cup milk
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, beat honey, corn oil, egg and milk. Gradually add mixture to dry ingredients to form a dough. Form into 1-inch balls and bake at 350 F on an ungreased cookie sheet for 15 minutes. Makes 18 balls.
YUM!
Here are some dog treat recipes to help you find a way to your dog's heart:
Bark-B-Q
2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 cup white flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup wheat germ
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoon honey
3 tablespoons oil
1 egg
1/2 cup water
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix barbecue sauce, honey, oil, egg, water. Add to dry ingredients. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thick and cut into 3 to 4 inch pieces. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 25 minutes at 350 F. Makes 2 1/2 dozen cookies.
Beg-for-more Peanut Butter Treats
2 tablespoons oil
1/2 cup peanut butter
1 cup water
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 1/2 cups white flour
Preheat the oven to 350 F. Combine oil, peanut butter and water. Add flour, one cup at a time, forming a dough. Knead dough into firm ball and roll to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into 3 to 4 inch pieces. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 F for 20 minutes. Makes 2 1/2 dozen cookies.
Chick'N Fingers
2 1/2 cups white flour
3/4 cup yellow cornmeal
1/4 cup chopped chicken
1 cup chicken broth
4 tablespoons softened margarine
1 egg
2 T milk
Preheat oven to 325 F. Combine flour, cornmeal, chicken, chicken broth and margarine. Form into a soft dough and knead for 3 minutes. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into 3 to 4 inch finger shapes. Beat egg and milk together and apply to top of biscuits with brush. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 325 F for 35 minutes. Makes 24 fingers.
Spicy Treat-balls
2/3 cup whole wheat flour
1/3 cup white flour
1/2 cup bran
1/2 cup brewers yeast
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons corn oil
1 egg
1/3 cup milk
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, beat honey, corn oil, egg and milk. Gradually add mixture to dry ingredients to form a dough. Form into 1-inch balls and bake at 350 F on an ungreased cookie sheet for 15 minutes. Makes 18 balls.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Healthy Dog Treats
Here are some healthy alternatives for dog treats.
Anyone who's ever seen a dog eat grass or greens knows there's a vegetarian side to your pet. Before domestication, when dogs hunted for their living, they ate the entrails of their prey, which contained a considerable amount of digested vegetable matter. Most animals still want some of this vegetation, but can't digest the tough fibrous components on their own. Try offering your dog some cooked green beans, carrots or peas. Many pets love them, and you can even mix them into their regular diet.
I planted an extra row of peas in the garden for my Golden Retriever.
Another favorite for many pets are rice, popcorn and pasta. A bit of a rice cake or some air popped popcorn is a great substitute for a high fat treat. Cooked rice can be added for bulk to a weight control diet. It's a way of giving your pet more food without adding a lot of fat calories. Cooked pasta is also great. Many pets relish a few elbow macaroni or other plain pasta.
Ebony knows when the popcorn maker comes out of the cupboard.
A cooked egg is a great protein treat; hard boil a few and keep them on hand. A little dab of cottage cheese or plain yogurt substitutes for licking that ice cream bowl!
Anyone who's ever seen a dog eat grass or greens knows there's a vegetarian side to your pet. Before domestication, when dogs hunted for their living, they ate the entrails of their prey, which contained a considerable amount of digested vegetable matter. Most animals still want some of this vegetation, but can't digest the tough fibrous components on their own. Try offering your dog some cooked green beans, carrots or peas. Many pets love them, and you can even mix them into their regular diet.
I planted an extra row of peas in the garden for my Golden Retriever.
Another favorite for many pets are rice, popcorn and pasta. A bit of a rice cake or some air popped popcorn is a great substitute for a high fat treat. Cooked rice can be added for bulk to a weight control diet. It's a way of giving your pet more food without adding a lot of fat calories. Cooked pasta is also great. Many pets relish a few elbow macaroni or other plain pasta.
Ebony knows when the popcorn maker comes out of the cupboard.
A cooked egg is a great protein treat; hard boil a few and keep them on hand. A little dab of cottage cheese or plain yogurt substitutes for licking that ice cream bowl!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Small Traveler
Ebony and I enjoy morning walks, or sometimes I skate, on the Chehalis Western Trail in Olympia Washington.
It is one of Washington's "rail-trails," public-access trails built on abandoned railroad rights-of-way. They provide recreational opportunities for a wide range of nonmotorized uses, more than any other kind of trail. They preserve unique greenspace, contributing to the green aesthetic that is so much a part of the natural beauty of Washington State. They also keep alive the last vestiges of railroad history in a more visible and active way than the few remaining steam engines displayed at local parks. Rail-trails provide a connection between public parks and open space in a way roads can never achieve.
Besides, they are fabulous places to skate, and meet interesting people!
Meet Jim and his dog Brandy. Brandy is seven years old and one of those cute, little shaggy dogs whose name I can never remember. Help me out here, someone.... Jim told me that he purchased the basket that Brandy rides in when he was in Holland. They have been riding together for several years.
Ebony, Jim, and Brandy
It is one of Washington's "rail-trails," public-access trails built on abandoned railroad rights-of-way. They provide recreational opportunities for a wide range of nonmotorized uses, more than any other kind of trail. They preserve unique greenspace, contributing to the green aesthetic that is so much a part of the natural beauty of Washington State. They also keep alive the last vestiges of railroad history in a more visible and active way than the few remaining steam engines displayed at local parks. Rail-trails provide a connection between public parks and open space in a way roads can never achieve.
Besides, they are fabulous places to skate, and meet interesting people!
Meet Jim and his dog Brandy. Brandy is seven years old and one of those cute, little shaggy dogs whose name I can never remember. Help me out here, someone.... Jim told me that he purchased the basket that Brandy rides in when he was in Holland. They have been riding together for several years.
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