Wag Fest!

Our group attended Wag Fest two weeks ago in Albemarle. Our guide dog group did a presentation for the crowd to get people interested in raising a new puppy. Spunky usually does well until 100 dogs come around! He did good but he gets really excited when a lot of other dogs are close to play with! Here are some pics!

Updating Finally!

I know that I have been neglecting my blog but now that school is almost out, I will hopefully catch up on my postings! Spunky is doing great! He is my sweet little baby boy and he is currently at Puppy Camp until May 16th. I miss him already which makes me think when he has to go back to Southeastern. I will update with pictures soon. Spunky has grown so much. He is a very big boy, wearing the big boy coat now. He has been to many new places as well. He is our little angel. We love him!

Growing Up Fast....

Well Spunky turned 5 months old on Saturday. I can't believe he is already this big! I know he is getting big because I can almost not pick him up anymore which is sad because I love holding him and loving him. He has mastered so many new things. His latest mastery is "DOWN" - we have that pretty good now. He has been to many places and enjoys going out. He attends class with me each week a UNC-Charlotte. He is the highlight of the night until he lets out a silent fart and everyone starts gaging....lol....He also falls asleep while the teacher is lecturing and then begins having a dream where he kicks his legs and barks. It is so cute! He will be going on a puppy swap in March and I already miss him! I will try to get better at posting more often! We stay so busy!

Scrapbook Creation

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Pictures from extreme ice!

Extreme Ice Skating Center...

Our group went to Extreme Ice Skating Adventure yesterday for an outing for the dogs. Spunky loved the ice and couldn't get enough of it! He is naturally "hot" all the time when he sleeps, moving around to find a cooler spot to lay in! He layed on the ice several times. He ran, jumped, and played until he could not any longer! Here are some photos!

Potty Training Update!!!

Well our potty training is going excellent. At first I was very frustrated with Spunky because he seemed to go EVERYWHERE! Now, he has not had any accidents in two weeks AND he is no longer sleeping in his kennel at night. That's right! For the past 3 nights he's been sleeping beside Isabelle next to our bed. He sleeps all through the night and if he needs to go have a "Busy" break he just goes to the bedroom door and lets out a little whimper. He is doing soooo good and I am a proud moma! I know I've neglected to post pictures but I promise they are coming soon! Now that the holidays are over, I have a little more time before things get crazy again!

Happy New Year!!!

As 2009 is over and we welcome a new year I'd like to wish everyone the best and may God bless you this year! 2010 will be a very busy year for us with some important events happening in our lives. Stay tuned to find out what they are this year!!! I took some video footage of the two babies this morning playing together. Enjoy!

We are still here!

Yes, I've been busy with the holidays and have not posted anything lately! We are still here, still around. We had a wonderful Christmas this year and our tree DID survive all the way through although we did lose a few ornaments this year thanks to our pal Spunky. Oh well - they can be replaced! Spunky is doing really well! He's 3 months old now and growing so fast. I almost wanted him to remain a small baby forever! He has made his first vet visit here and weighed 22 lbs! We will be going back next week for our 12 week visit so I will post an update then. He is learning new things everyday and loving Isabelle. These two are inseparable. They are little angels though. I have new pictures that I will try and post this week.. Happy New Year to all! Have a blessed 2010!

In the training kennel - Twas the Night Before Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas and the kennels were still, with most dogs now asleep having eaten their fill.

The Labradors sprawled out, quite snug in their beds, while visions of ANYTHING edible danced in their heads.

The Goldens and Shepherds curled up on the floor, some twitched in their sleep and some even did snore.

The dog food was stacked in the feed room with care, in hopes that a trainer soon would be there.

On the window ledge, one of the kennel cats lay, surveying the lawn at the end of this day.

Something was different, that little cat knew. Tonight something would happen, it had to be true.

For that day as the workers had left to go home, They'd wished Merry Christmas! before starting to roam.

The dogs had noticed it to during this past week's walks, the trainers seemed just that much happier and eager to talk.

In the mall where they worked through the maze of people and stores, there were decoration and music and distractions galore!

Most dogs pranced along without worry or fear, but some balked at the man on the sleigh and those fake looking deer.

The cat was almost asleep too when he first heard the sound, a whoosh through the air and a jingle around.

It reminded him of a dog's collar when the animal shook, but this sound kept on growing. He'd better go look.

From the ceiling there came a faint sort of thunk, as the kennel cat climbed to the highest pile of junk.

Once before people had worked on the roof, and come down through the trap door to a chorus of "Woooof!"

But the dogs still were quiet, all sleeping so sound, as this man dressed in red made his way right on down.

He patted the cat as he climbed past his spot, then made his way right to the trainers' coffee pot.

A shepherd sat up, not fully awake, then a Golden followed her with a mighty loud shake.

That did it! All the dogs sprang to life with loud noise. In spite of the din, the old man kept his poise.

He filled the pot full and it started to brew, then he pulled up a chair and took in the view.

Dogs all around him, so carefully bred, he knew well their jobs, the blind people they lead.

Some had stopped barking and looked at him while others delighted in their own deafening howl.

Laying a finger in front of his lips, the jolly old man silenced the excitable yips..

"You all may not know me, but I'm Santa Claus," the old man smiled and took a short pause,

While he filled up his mug with hot liquid and cream, "I've always wanted to stop here. It's been one of my dreams."

The cat had climbed down and was exploring Santa's sack. "Yes, little kitty, that's an empty pack."

Santa smiled as he drank and looked at those eyes, deep brown ones and gold ones held wide in surprise.

Some of these dogs, he'd seen just last year, in their puppy homes, cute and full of holiday cheer.

He'd seen the effects of a pup on the tree, but now they were here at the school, just waiting to be.

"I didn't bring you presents or bones just to chew. I'll tell you something better, what you are going to do."

"You all will work hard and the trainers will share, both praise and correction, gentle and fair."

"You'll go lots of places and face big scary things. You'll ride buses and subways and hear fire sirens ring."

"Cars will drive at you but you will stand strong, not moving into danger, not moving toward wrong."

"And then just when you think that this trainer's the best, the kindest, and funniest person, toss away all the rest,"

"That trainer will begin to ignore you and give you away, handing your leash over despite your dismay."

"Now the person who pets you and feeds you will be a blind person. That's a person who can't see." " This man or this woman may see just a tad, but their view's missing parts or the focus is bad."

"So you, well trained dogs, will act as their eyes. You will work as a team and discover the size"

Of this great world we live in, because you will go a million new places with this person, you know."

Santa sipped at his coffee and looked over the brood, knowing what he had to say next might sound kind of rude.

"Not all of you will make it and become canine guides. Your time here isn't wasted though.

You won't be cast aside."

"Some of you will be drug dogs and some will find bombs. Some will become pets in a home with a dad and a mom."

"All these things are important. People wait on long lists, to receive such good dogs as you, the school folks insist."

The last drop of coffee had gone into his mouth. Santa turned, smiling at each wide eyed pup.

"The best gift of all is to give something back. That's why there's nothing for you all inside of my pack."

Draining his mug, Santa went to each pen, and petted and scratched each dog again and again.

"Now next year and many more years after that, you all will give gifts wherever you're at.."

"You might lick a hand that's had a bad day, Or notice a car and step out of the way."

"You might help catch a crook or discover some loot, Or just bring some joy to a tired old man in a funny red suit."

"Your master will love you and treat you with care. In return, your training and trust will always be there."

After the last dog had been petted and soothed, Santa put away the coffee pot and made ready to move.

Up the ladder he rose to the door high above, with a smile and a wave as he slipped on his gloves.

And all the dog ears were pricked as he disappeared out of sight, "Merry Christmas to all, and to all a Good Night!"

I'm growing & playing!

Here are some recent photos of Spunky and Isabelle playing together outside. They are most definitely two peas in a pod! They are so funny when they play together. I need to keep the camera on my side at all times because I miss so much cuteness!

Christmas Party!

I just wanted to share Spunky's picture with Santa that he had taken last weekend at the Christmas Party. Looks like he had fun! Thanks Anne for taking him and taking wonderful pictures!

So Nice but yet so Naughty...

So Spunky is an angel of course, when he sits there gazing up at me with those cute little black eyes just waiting to be loved. But, then he has those naughty moments where that love turns into...well...something else! HaHa. We were trying to take pictures by the Christmas tree but as you can see he was more interested in biting the thing that was flashing. We will try again later! Spunky went to his Christmas party this weekend with Anne. I heard he had fun especially with Santa. Matt and I were committed to a military function and could not make it but I wanted to post some pictures anyway of our little man!

Preparing me for motherhood...

Yes I know that a dog is not a child but they both have common characteristics. It's only been a few days and I am completely exhausted by the end of the day. I never sit down, it's a constant on the go with these two. I have to watch him every second because as soon as I take my eyes off him he is into something he shouldn't be. I find myself coaxing Spunky and Isabelle for a mid afternoon nap so maybe I can actually get some work done. This has to be similar to children...no time for yourself as you give everything for the little ones. I don't regret it though as it will be a rewarding experience.

Spunky has already learned the command "SIT" only after two days. I'm proud of him. We will continue to work before we start ObedienceTraining.

Our First Bath

When I arrived home from work today I had a lovely surprise waiting for me! Spunky had 2 accidents in his kennel. He did a "busy" and a "busy, busy, busy". He was covered head to toe in poop. Of course we immediately had a bath. I thought he would LOVE the bath but apparently he was scared. You can tell by the picture he was ready to jump out at any given moment! Needless to say, the job got done!

Really? Will you chew on EVERYTHING?

I tried to prepare myself for Spunky as much as possible. We puppy proofed our home as best we could. We don't have any children and our Isabelle is 4 years old now. She never chews, touches, eats anything she isn't supposed to. On Spunky's first evening he managed to rip down our Christmas decorations off the mantle and break several glass candle holders. Of course we were watching him at this time and it happened so quickly right in front of us. I was going to take a picture of the giant mess but I didn't want to remember it! :) I know he is just a baby so it's expected. We just found it funny that he has a bone and a Cong ball to chew on but instead he wants the chair, couch, blanket, clothes, bags, cords, etc. (This list could go on and on) He seems to think our Christmas tree taste good too. Hopefully as he grows, he will grow out of this stage too!

Why the name Spunky?

I am sure many people may be wondering why our puppy's name is Spunky. At first we thought he wouldn't live up to his name because he seemed so quiet....until crate training began!! :)Spunky's fund was donated by an anonymous donor In Memory of Eve and Henry Siegel. I don't know if there is a specific reason they chose the name Spunky but it definitely fits him. We got back into town today and picked him up this afternoon. This will be our first evening with him. He helped us put up our Christmas tree and decorate. More pics coming soon!

First Pictures! 11-24

He's Here! He's Here!

Our little precious baby has arrived! I was able to meet him today for a few minutes. We will be in the mountains for Thanksgiving and we cannot take our little friend with us but we will pick him up on Sunday! Precious does not even do him justice! He is a soft black ball of fur and I am already in love. My gracious friend Anita Jones will be keeping him for us! Thank you Anita! I will post more pics soon. I cannot wait to be back Sunday night to hold him!

We have a name!

Our puppy's new name is.....
SPUNKY
Once we get the puppy I will know the background information about his name. Only a few more days!
Happy Thanksgiving!

What is Southeastern Guide Dog Organization?

I wanted to give some background information on Southeastern Guide Dogs before going any further. If you are interested or know someone who may be, please give them the link for the website. Southeastern Guide Dog school is located in Palmetto Florida. It is the only accredited guide dog school in the Southeastern United States. Some of their programs include: Paws for Independence for blind and visually impaired individuals, Paws for Patriots for blind and visually impaired veterans, and Gifted Canines, which places dogs into therapy, law-enforcement and other specialized careers. This organization is non-profit and offers these service animals FREE to blind and visually impaired people. The dogs are worth 65K when all training is complete. How awesome is that? These dogs are FREE - No strings attached! As a puppy raiser you are responsible for the animal but your only cost are food and basic puppy supplies such as collar, leash, toys, food bowls, etc. Southeastern takes care of the vet bills through generous donations that people give to the school. I may not be able to donate tons of money to certain charities but I can certainly donate my time and love.
The best part about this experience is the dog becomes your side kick! The puppy can go anywhere you go. The puppy will go to school, church, grocery store, mall, etc. Most states have laws regarding service animals and we are lucky because here in North Carolina it is a state law to allow service dogs into businesses. Even as a puppy raiser we are covered under this law. If a business refuses to let you in, they can face a fine of $500. It is great for the puppy to be out in public to work on training. It is such a wonderful organization and please visit the website to see more information.

How it all started....

I never thought I would ever have my own blog. We all know the saying, "Never say never". I always thought people who spent their time blogging about their life actually didn't have one. Technology is our future and what better time to fully embrace it, right? Well this blog isn't so much about my personal life as it is about life, a life. It all started when I met a teacher named Anita. We became friends when I started working at the school she works at. One day while walking down the hall I saw Anita. The image I saw was very strange. She was walking with a dog. A dog? In school? I didn't know who or what, but I knew I wanted to pet it. This is when I met Dexter. Dexter was Anita's guide dog that she and her family raised from a puppy. He was the most well behaved dog I've ever met. As I stood their talking to Anita and admiring her beautiful dog she told me the story of Dexter and how one day he will be a guide dog for a blind person. The story was heart warming and something inside me was instantly interested. She asked me if I would ever consider raising a guide dog puppy. Of course I had NEVER considered the thought. We have a great dane at home, one of the biggest breeds on the planet! I was convinced she was the last dog I would own but my heart told me different. I talked to Matt right away and told him about Southeastern Guide Dogs and Dexter. I asked him if he would be interested and of course he said yes! (Yes, I know I have the best husband in the world!) This is the day our journey began. We were going to raise a puppy that would one day be the eyes for a human being that cannot see. If that isn't amazing, I don't know what is! We completed necessary paperwork and had our home visit. We were approved and put on the list for an available puppy. We were told our fur-baby would be arriving sometime after the new year and I felt good about that because it would give me plenty of time to prepare! A week or so later I got a surprise phone call and was told our baby would be picked up on November 23rd from Florida and brought back to North Carolina if we were ready. What a great Thanksgiving present to be thankful for? We are excited about this journey of service we are going to enter with this puppy. Matt, myself, and the puppy will all be doing a service for a person we may or may not ever know but it will change someones life forever. It makes us overjoyed to know we can participate in something that is so much bigger than us and amazing. The next 14 months will be challenging and fun but we are ready for the task! Take the journey with us.