Update on Nicki

Whew! I know, I know it's been a long time since I've posted anything on my blog. Well, for Lord's sake (that's a line from Eloise At Christmas Time) I've been busy!
Look, I'm really grown up, ok, I don't act like it but hey, don't they say that Airedales are always just a kid at heart. You know I'm just a little over 17 months old. This photo was taken in October and I picked this one because it shows me with our new addition to the family. Her name is Zoe and Mom says she wasn't really planning on another dog (we are back to 3) but if you saw her when she arrived--well, their was no question of not keeping her.
This picture was taken after she had been here over 3 months.

Update on Ethyl: she is living with her forever family and is one happy dog. We go to visit her sometimes and Zoe even stayed there for a couple weeks when I went to Florida (on vacation in a motorhome, yipee). But that's for another post. I've got lots of updating to do.

I hope everyone had a great Christmas (I did) and have a great New Year.
 

I'm almost 9 months old!

Here I am a couple of weeks after my first grooming at home. Mom said I was really a good girl. Alex got his grooming too. Our haircuts aren't that short because it is still cool sometimes.

When Mom tries to make the bed I always try to beat her to the bed. I plop down right in the middle. She beat me to it today. I don't sleep on the bed at night (I prefer the floor--even though I have several beds to pick from). Mom says I'm a typical Airedale.

It is great out today and we are going to the store, so talk to you all later.
Ciao, Nicki

 

Bath Time

My first bath at home. (Not counting when I had to have my feet washed in the tub.) Poppa gave me my bath and haircut. Previously I went to the groomers for a haircut (I was a little wild on the table at home). The groomers had two professionals to corral me. I am much better now so my parents thought they would give it a try. I behaved admirably. Mom helped finish me up. My cut isn't special but it works for now.

If my hair gets long, it starts shedding little dust bunnies. Mom doesn't like dog hair in the house so I'll be kept short except in the winter. As you can see in the picture, I wasn't all that happy having a bath--who is?

Alex had a bath and haircut too! We acted like crazy dogs after the bath. We were running and jumping all over the house. It was a blast.

Alex got to go to the nursing home for a visit later that night. Mom says I can go once I learn my manners. You know, I am only eight months old and that is still a youngster for an Airedale. After a few more semesters of obedience training at K9 Guardians in Lockport I should be ready.

I really like going to training class and the guys there are great. They really know how us dogs think. See it's the people who have to be trained to deal with us. I hate to say it but some people are just slow learners.

Ethyl has exciting news! She has been visiting a family who are friends of ours. She has had a day visit, then a night visit and now this weekend she is staying for the whole weekend. She loves it at Kathy's house. There is lots of room (more than our house) and there is a pond and lots and lots of squirrels, which is Ethyl's absolute favorite pastime. I think she wants to stay there!!

That might be a good thing because Ethyl doesn't really care for me. I guess I'm just a big lug. Alex loves me though.

Kathy's family just lost their beloved Roxi, she was fifteen years old and the family was really sad. Ethyl went there for a visit and they fell in love with her. Since Ethyl was a rescue dog (saved from the pound) we didn't realize she wouldn't really like a big dog like me. But it seems that God had a plan all along. Mom and Dad took her in, helped her trust people again and now she is ready for a family that will have her as their centerpiece. She is showered with love and affection.

We will miss her but we are happy for her. We just want what is best for Ethyl and Kathy's home is it.

Ciao, Nicki
 

A Favorite Picture

Mom says this is one of her favorite pictures of me. I was playing tug with one of the dogs and I was taking a break. It is almost spring here and the weather this day was exceptionally warm. In fact we have had a really easy winter. Good for me since I was just a pup during it. Now I'm a youngster.

Mom says I'm checking out my independence. I think that means I'm willful. My last class is this Saturday and then I'll be on to another. Hopefully, I will learn not to jump and mouth people pretty soon. If I plan on visiting any nursing homes my manners will have to be impleccable. Okay, I know, I have a ways to go!

I'm going to be 8 months old on St. Patrick's Day. I'm getting big and although I don't look exactly like Reba (my predecessor) I must remind Mom, Dad and just about everyone else of her because they call me Reba. I don't mind. My nickname is Nicka-Reebs. Actually I have alot of nicknames. Mom calls me her big mookie (should probably be moochie). I'm not picky at all about what I will eat. If Mom likes it, I do.

Okay, I'm at the computer bothering Mom to go outside. So I talk to you later.

Ciao, Nicka-Reebs (for today) 

Pictures of Lexi

This is Lexi in the laundry basket. We were all playing outside since the weather was great. It was the same day I was playing tug with her (last post photo).

The next photo is a shot of Lexi and her new sister, Harley. Harley weighs in at about 80 pds. She is double MY weight. Lexi jumped right in playing with her after figuring out that Harley was a big pushover. They are going to have a great time together. Lexi has settled in fine in her new home. I'll miss the rough and tumble with her but not her puppy teeth! My Mom said they were the sharpest, even sharper than mine.

This summer all of us can visit and play together in our yard. Speaking of yard, I'm going outside and then for a walk.

Ciao, Nicki

 

Playing with our rescue dog

Notice the little guy, well little girl. She came all the way from Arizona and ended up at our house for awhile. The person who brought her from Arizona decided that he couldn't take responsibility for a new dog and was going to put an ad in the newspaper for "free for the taking".

Mom heard about that and had met the little girl and didn't want her to go to just any home. She is part pit bull and as many of you know that breed shouldn't just go to anyone. She stayed at our house for a week and then was placed in a loving home. Best of all, it's my Dad's sister's house. They named her Lexi (her first name was Stacey) and she has a big sister to play with who is also part pit bull/boxer.

All of us fell in love with her, she is really a cute dog. (I'll post another picture of her tomorrow.) Whatever mix she is she turned out beautiful. Lexi was a blast to play with after she found out that I'm big but gentle and still a youngster myself.

Alex wasn't so gracious and Ethyl just basically left her alone. We all did get some great play time together and it was really good for all of us to socialize.

I finished my Basic Training class and am now in Advanced. Alex also is in my class and we get to go through tunnels and jump over low fences. Alex is learning to not be aggressive to other dogs and is behaving himself. We have two more classes left then it's on to "off lead" training.

Mom says I'm a joy to walk now and both Alex and I get to walk together and we have been minding our own business while on the walk. No barking at other dogs and in my case, no picking up all the interesting items on the street.

My breeder says I'm turning out beautiful and she is happy with my progress.

We're off for a walk before it rains so I'll talk to you later.

Ciao, Nicki 

Basic Training Class

Well it's been awhile since I've last posted and I've been busy. Holidays were celebrated and another graduation day for me.

This is a picture of Dad and me on the last day of Basic Training class. I'm in a down command and I've learned that one great!

Mom started the class with me with Dad watching and Dad finished up with Mom watching. Oh, I forgot to tell you Dad finished up because Mom sprained her ankle when she was trying to avoid my foot that accidently got under hers. My foot is fine, Mom's limping.

Our weather has been unseasonably warm here so we're getting rain instead of snow. I prefer the snow and so does everyone else around here. (No muddy feet and lots of jumping and playing when there is snow.)

Mom had a calendar made with me as the featured Airedale from my first 6 months. It came out really cool!

I'm watching animal planet (I like TV) and am going for a training/walk so I'll check in later.
Ciao, Nicki

 

Graduation Day for Puppy Class

Yea, I graduated! For our last two classes Princess and I went to another class where there were more dogs. Of course I was very good. I don't want to admit it but I was rather spooked by a Miniature Schnauzer for the first class. For the second class I got use to her. She was rather outspoken. Dad video taped the class and he was proud of me.

I start my next training class Saturday, January 7. We are going to a different trainer and location. K9 Guardians. Petsmart was good for puppy class and fulfilled its purpose. I love to go to Petsmart and see all the animals.

I'm rather stubborn, as most Airedales are, and I'll have to work hard to become a good canine citizen. I'll let you know what Mom and I think of the new place after a lesson or two. 

Hey, it's snow!

No suprise I love the snow. We got around 6 inches yesterday, 12-8-05. It was my first romp in the snow and I had a blast. Luckily I don't get cold because of my coat (fur coat). My brother and sister like the snow but they get cold faster than me. We do have cloth coats and boots too but unless it is bitter cold I don't wear them. Alex doesn't like his coat but he has to wear his more often because he gets cold.

Mom says once I'm trained to always come when called I can go to the park where I will really have a blast. Alex and Ethyl go but Mom is nervous about letting me loose.

Next week I'm going to puppy class at a different time with a different class. There are going to be more dogs so I will get to interact with lots of puppies. Princess is going to be there too. Mom says I have to practice my commands alot this week so I will shine at class.

Dad is going to be on vacation so he is going to go too. Just wait till he sees how smart I am!

Ciao for now, Nicki (ps. I'm 5 mos. old now.) 

Pics from our playtime at our 4th puppy class

Hi, these are pictures from our 4th puppy training class. Too bad there aren't any of me performing. Princess and I got to walk around the store showing Kathy our teacher just how much we have learned.We have been learning alot of commands and we are doing pretty good. A little boy stopped by with his family to visit with me. I love kids but Mom says I'm too rough and have to learn some manners before I can play with them.

Last week was hetic with Thanksgiving and all; which by the way was really fun. Our house had guests of people and their dogs! Mom says just wait till Christmas-there will be a big party. I didn't get to eat a whole lot of turkey or lamb because Mom thought I'd get sick, but I get to have some everyday until it runs out (of course I share everything with Alex and Ethyl).

I'm loosing lots of my baby teeth and okay, I do get a little out of hand with the chewing but hey, my mouth is sore. Mom keeps checking my mouth; I think she wants a tooth. We both dived for one and she got to it first so she does have a molar but she is looking for more.

I forgot to tell you, I had a grooming session at Mom's regular groomer. Her business is Pawsnkitty and she is really nice. She did a bath, a little trim and my nails. Only thing is my hair is growing like a weed and it looks like I need a regular haircut. Well, it will have to wait--too cold.
Ciao for now, Nicki 

Reba (my namesake) and Me

Hello,
Check out this picture. It’s a collage of Reba and me at about the same ages. I have Reba’s name as part of mine. I’m registered as “Stone Ridge Nichole of Reba”.

Reba was the Airedale that lived here before me. She died September 4, 2005 and my family was so sad that they had to get another Airedale. I’m not Reba; I’m my own girl, with my own different personality. My Mom says I can’t take the place of Reba but I’m sure taking away some of the grief at losing her. My antics and my looks remind her of Reba and that’s a good thing.

My Mom was so mad at losing Reba that she wrote a letter to the animal hospital. We don’t go there anymore. No one from that clinic has had the courtesy to respond to her letter, not any of the doctors, the owner or the staff. It is sad because our family had been going to that facility since my Mom had dogs as a child. I’m going to post the letter and you can read it for yourself. I'm removing the name of the hospital (I don't know if it's legal to print it) and removing Mom's name.

I’m sure that if you’re an animal lover (and you must be if you’re reading this blog) you’re going to agree with my Mom.


September 7, 2005


To the Doctors and Staff at Cxxxx Hxxx Animal Hospital:

When I looked up the definition of “hospital” I found that the term refers to a facility that admits patients and keeps them until they are able or should go home. These are called inpatients.

A “clinic” on the other hand has patients that come in for diagnosis and/or therapy and then leave (outpatients).

So why am I telling you this, because I am heartbroken, crushed and mad as well. Our family’s beloved dog, Reba, died Sunday after being released Saturday afternoon from your facility because you were closing for the weekend and as Monday was a holiday would not be open until Tuesday. Well my Reba didn’t last 24 hours after being released.

Reba had suffered a pancreatic attack that was very serious and was in fact life threatening. My dog was sent home with an IV bag and needle to be used subcutaneously if needed on Sunday and Monday by us, non medical people, who in retrospect didn’t realize our Reba was so sick.

We were told we could take her to a 24/7 animal hospital in Aurora or Mokena but, after consultation with her regular two doctors we believed Reba was well enough and would be more comfortable at home. She wasn’t. Sunday morning she seemed very sick so we bundled her up and drove to the Aurora hospital, which was the only facility that could keep her until she was healthy. By the time we arrived, Reba wasn’t able to stand and shortly thereafter died during efforts to save her, including two attempts to restart her heart.

I am taking responsibility for Reba’s untimely death. I should have taken her to the Aurora hospital sooner and I will live with that the rest of my life. I let her down but I also believe in my heart that you too let her down.

I’m not a trained veterinarian. When my Reba’s life was draining out of her she needed professional help, your help. But it was the weekend, you couldn’t be bothered, you couldn’t even call to check up on a very sick dog.

There is a doctor in front of your name. That should stand for something. We look to you for guidance and trust you with our most precious companions. Please don’t let my Reba’s death be in vain. Please institute a call back program to check up on your patients that couldn’t stay. If I had talked to the doctor I’m sure she or he would have told me to immediately take her to the hospital.

You have three offices, can you not have one with a full time staff?

I’m furious that so many veterinarian offices are not staffed full time, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. These are medical people, doctors and staff who are supposed to give care to our pets. When I asked your front desk, why they don’t stay open full time she candidly said, “Nobody wants to work the hours.” Well, too bad, your dedication is to a living pet not some paperwork that can wait until tomorrow or after the weekend.

My Reba is dead, but I sure hope you all enjoyed your holiday weekend.

I believe the word hospital should be removed from every veterinarian office’s name if you’re not open for the pets’ full time. YOU are not a hospital, you’re just a clinic. The word hospital is not deserved.

I apologize for such a bitter letter, but I am bitter. It just is such a waste of a beautiful animal, my Reba. So don’t send me a card telling me she is due for shots for the only thing I can bring in is ashes.

Sorrowfully,
xxxxx xxxxxx
(Reba: August 1, 1997 to September 4, 2005)

On top of all that happened, when my family left Reba at the Aurora hospital for a private cremation they forgot to tag her as “Private Cremation” and she got cremated with a bunch of other dogs. Mom really was crying and mad about that.

But the hospital that screwed up did apologize and refunded all monies paid them, even the bill for her emergency procedures. We respect them for that.

On a lighter note, HAPPY THANKSGIVING to everyone. Our day will be filled with people and dogs. Everyone invited is welcomed to bring their dog too. Hope it's nice outside so we can all play in the yard.

Ciao for now, Nicki

PS If you are wondering who is who in the collage, from left to right, starting at the top: 1 Nicki, 2 Reba, 3 Reba, 4 Nicki, 5 Reba, 6 Nicki, 7 Nicki, 8 Reba,
9 Nicki, 10 Reba, 11 Nicki, 12 Reba, 13 Nicki, 14 Reba, 15 Nicki, 16 Nicki

Relaxing together

Here are all of us hanging out on the pillow.
I'm behaving around these guys better and better each day. Alex weighs 22 pounds and I believe I've caught up with him. I'm already taller than him. Today is my second puppy class; I'll let you know all about it later. Today is another great weather day here so I have to get ready. We are all going for our walk soooo
Ciao for now Nicki

 

Me and my dog family

This is me and my brother Alex, a miniature schnauzer and Ethyl, a mixed terrier. Alex is five years old and the boss. Ethyl is around four (we think) and she lets me push her around. She looks old but she's not. Mom and Dad saved her from going to the pound. It would have been her second time. She has been here around five months and she is really a sweet little girl. Of course the name Ethyl is kinda crazy but that was her name so she kept it.

Mom was just going to dogsit her for the neighbor but once she was here and cleaned up she never went back to that house. She was mainly living in the basement there because she didn't get along with the large dog that lived there. She loves it outside and enjoys chasing squirrels. In fact, she is fascinated by them.

Alex likes to chase squirrels too. It's a great pastime. I'm not really interested in them yet but I'm sure I will be in the future.

Ciao for now, Nicki

First Class

This is my teacher, Kathy, and my Mom. I'm already alot to hold.

In our first class we were introduced to:

Gotcha: Grab the dog's collar, say "Gotcha" and give a treat.

Sit: Use treat in hand and make the "sit" hand motion. When dog sits immediately give treat.

Watch Me: With treat in hand, let the dog see the treat and tell her to "watch me". Bring the treat towards your nose and as soon as the dog even glances at your eyes give the treat. As the dog gets used to this, hold the treat off to the side by your shoulder. The dog will eventually glance at you longer and longer. As this happens put the treat in your other hand without her seeing you and when she looks at you give the treat.

Take It: With a treat in the palm of your hand, show the treat and then close your hand into a fist. Let the dog sniff, paw, or lick your fist but do not give the treat until the dog loses interest (even for a moment). Then quickly open your hand and say "Take It" and give the treat. Eventually, you will be able to offer the treat with an open palm and the dog won't take it until you say "Take It".

"Release Word"--Whatever word you pick; which is then used to release or to tell the dog that the requested behavior is finished. If your word is "ok", then after the sit, gotcha, or watch me command is accomplished and the treat is given, tell her "ok". That lets her know she is finished.

"Jumping Up"--Turn your body to the side and bump or lean into the dog. They will get the idea.

"Barking"--Firmly say "no bark" or "quiet" whatever you pick and if she isn't listening try a spray bottle filled with water or a can with coins, something to distract her from the behavior that she won't appreciate. Don't let the dog see the bottle or can if possible.

Hint: Don't let your dog play with other dogs when on leash. It is a bad habit to get into. The dog needs to know when it is acceptable to visit with other dogs.

Whew! That was alot to learn and we have to practice it all everyday. The above is just my Mom's writing from what she gleaned from the class. We really like Kathy and are so happy that Petsmart adovcates humane teaching. No chrome choke collars or pinch collars or harsh methods. Of course my Mom wouldn't have taken me there if they did use those methods.

I love class because I'm getting lots of treats and there is alot going on what with people and dogs walking about shopping. Plus Mom bought me a new toy (Dad said we have enough toys, but we still get them). Lots of toys and bones mean I won't be so interested in chewing up good shoes or furniture or paper.

Today is beautiful out so all of us were outside since early this morning. Mom raked the yard and I didn't even get in her way too much. The temperature here today is probably going to be a record high for this time of year so we are going to enjoy it while we can. So I can't be blogging all day, we are going outside!!
Ciao, Nicki

This is me and my classmate Princess on our first day of puppy class. It was good because there was only the two of us we got lots of attention.

 
 

First Day of School

Yesterday, November 1, 2005 I had my first puppy class. I was the star of the class. Of course there were only two of us and the other girl IS only about 10 weeks old. I'm 15 weeks now and Mom has been working with me so I had a headstart. I'm still very smart and the teacher said we both did very well.

I'm still confined to my crate at times because I'm not totally potty trained although I'm getting better everyday.

We have been busy around here. Everyday we all go for a walk and then because the weather is still nice we get to stay outside a large portion of the day.

Alex, my brother, (he's five and a miniature schnauzer) is fun to play with since I am learning some manners. He doesn't tolerate indiscrimate biting and lets me know about it. Ethyl, my sister, is even more fun because she let's me get away with more rough play. Mom frowns on that and is teaching me that that behavior isn't nice. Ethyl is too nice for her own good.

I've had a little trim and shortly will be getting my first real haircut. There are lots of pictures of me and my family but Mom hasn't figured out how to put up the link. Until then this website is where our albums are: http://community.webshots.com/user/llmufich. You'll have to copy and paste for now.
Ciao for now, Nicki

Nicki at 12 weeks