Fall

Things have been relatively quiet around here. In my research on seizures I discovered that there is a high success rate for melatonin given to dogs who have seizures in their sleep. So Maudie is getting 3mg at bedtime...

I've also been informed that the off-gassing of polyester, the waves sent by wireless computer, cell and land phones as well as the fall out from television may play a role in disturbed brain activity. I've been replacing Maude's beds with whole sheepskin, wool and all cotton. I'm not sure what to do about the wireless Internet we have; it's become such a staple of the household...but I am being more mindful of her space in relation to the use of the electronics.


People tell me their stories, 99% of which are sad sad stories and I have to keep telling myself that every dog is different and that she has me to look out for her. I come to understand more and more Keats' theory of negative capability not only as a poetic state of mind, but as a way of being in a world guided by change and uncertainty...It's a balancing act to stay grounded, to soldier on while acknowledging that the Mystery is All. To not pull back from love when loss shakes its finger at you.

The First Dog

On another note….I am quite certain that I have the answer to what kind of dog the Obama’s should get. ;-)

First off: I PRAY they don’t fall for the “oodle” scam. There are some nice ones, no doubt…but I am appalled at the prices people are willing to pay for a mongrel. There is no breed uniformity, no standard…and no guarantee of being “hypo-allergenic.”

But! I vote for a standard poodle from a really good breeder, a big poodle as elegant, intelligent, funny, dignified as the family itself. And they don’t shed. In my mind it’s a white standard poodle, but I think the black ones are said to be the most stable and intelligent.

A ex racing greayhound is an elegant choice, but I’m not sure one would be “fun” enough for the girls.

I keep thinking about the terriers…a Kerry Blue, a Wheaton or maybe an Airedale. Cairn or Westie maybe….Scotties are too dour…

But I think a Standard Poodle would be perfect.