Lab Adventures

Nap time

2012-02-15T18:59:00.000-08:00

Libby likes to sleep on heads. Usually she sleeps on Mommy's head at night but this afternoon, it was mine. Not that I minded. She is pretty cool. She likes to climb on me, wrestle, and bite me. But the funny thing is, I really like it. I like having the little pest around.

Puppy Love

2012-02-14T13:10:00.000-08:00

Sick Puppy

2012-02-05T11:22:00.001-08:00

Libby has had diarrhea for a few days now and in fact has lost 2 ozs this week. Mommy thinks its because she ate a treat she shouldn't have eaten. I'm just glad I'm not getting blamed for the messes in the house!

Be My Valentine

2012-02-02T13:44:00.000-08:00

These two are great buddies! As you can see, they love one another with all their hearts. It's so precious!

9 weeks tomorrow

2012-01-29T18:32:00.001-08:00

Libby is getting more aggressive and wild. There are times I hear inside Mommy's brain when she is thinking that we may have a Marley our hands. She is sweet one minute and then sticks her head in my mouth the next. We are great friends and I'm more peppy having her around, that's for sure! She is getting bigger too! She is 13 lbs at 9 weeks! That is a 2.4 lb weight gain this week alone. She might get bigger than me!

8 weeks old-Libby

2012-01-21T17:56:00.001-08:00

Libby is learning new things everyday. For instance, she learned that if she whines enough when she is with her cage at night, she will be allowed in Mommy's bed. Usually around 2am. She likes to lay on Mommy'a pillow, right above her head. She has attempted the stairs and made it to the top once. Hasn't attempted going down though. Too scary! She loves to bite my collar, especially with the new bling on it from Santa. We wrestle and fake bite, although she thinks my ears are chew toys. I sort of like the little pest. I like her food, that's for sure. I steal it every time the people of the house aren't looking. Libby got to try roast beef and got diarrhea. She loves it but it didn't love her little belly. At 8 weeks, Libby weighs 10 lbs 6 oz-that's a 3 lb weight gain in 2 weeks at her new home!

Sleepy puppy pictures

2012-01-12T05:34:00.001-08:00

Nothing cuter than a sleeping puppy! The funny things they do as they dream. The way they snuggle. How they move their feet and even bark while they rest. It's all so precious. That's how we like our Libby!

First Vet Visit

2012-01-09T15:22:00.000-08:00

Libby is 6 weeks today and we both had vet appointments today. I am 63 lbs and she is 7.6 lbs. She started her first set of vaccines and Mommy is suppose to keep her home until all the vaccines are given. Guess no more baseball games for her. She did have hook worms and had to get medicine for that. I took some too just to be safe.

Welcome Libby!

2012-01-07T16:35:00.000-08:00

Today, I adopted this little cute 6 week old lab puppy. My family helped me name her Libby Lou. She is really calm (at least she has been so far). I really don't know what to think about having her here. She kind of makes me worried that my family will forget about me. I know Jaelyn said she is worried about that so she will make sure that doesn't happen. Libby is gonna be a big dog, just like myself so once she grows, I'm sure it'll be fun chasing each other around the yard like Angel and I do now. My Mommy gave her a bath when she got home and she was very tired. I know she is a baby so she needs more sleep than anyone thought. She will have a black nose and black eyes. We may have similar looking fur but our eyes will tell us apart when we are grown. I'm not sure if I want to be her "Mommy" or just her "Sister". Guess we will soon see if my motherly instinct kicks in or not.

A baby maybe?

2012-01-06T13:35:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow my family is taking me across the bridge to play with some puppies. If I like them, my Mommy said I could adopt one for my very own. It's like I'd be a mommy! I do miss having a friend in the house. Angel got to spend this week at our house and running in the yard with her and wrestling has been wonderful! I don't know how I will do as someone's mommy. But I'm kind, cautious, and smart so I bet I'd make a good one! Jaelyn is afraid that all the attention to a puppy will make everyone forget about me. I'm still a teenager puppy after all. I don't know if I will or can step into the role of the "boss". I really am a follower at heart. Time will tell.

Merry Christmas 2011!

2011-12-25T08:41:00.000-08:00

I'm very blessed this year! I got 3 rawhide wreaths, some candy cane rawhides, a new name tag for my collar, a bag of girl colored tennis balls, and a big tin of treats! My family loves me! I am so very happy!

Christmas Pasts and Present

2011-12-02T06:26:00.000-08:00

Look at how much I have matured since I first came to live with my family 2 years ago. I had sweet puppy breath and a fat belly back then in 2009. Sprinkles looks mad in the 2009 Christmas photo. Suppose it was because I came to live there and was getting all the attention? Then in 2010, Sprinkles last Christmas with us, she doesn't look like having a sister really bothers her. This year I am sad to be posing all by myself in front of the tree. Something is missing. My smile? The happiness in my eyes? My best friend? Yep, all of the above. But no matter how life has changed for me these last few weeks, I still am loved and that won't change. I'm a part of the Sheldon clan and I will forever love and protect my family. Merry Christmas to all my readers out there. May you have safe travels and eat lots of good Christmas food! I certainly know I will try to sneak my share!

I'm doing GREAT!

2011-11-27T20:11:00.000-08:00

It's been a month since the accident and I'm feeling really good! I have been extra protective with my family, barking at the door. I can't help it I am part super hero with my super intense hearing power. I lived so that I could have more time here with my peeps and I want them to be safe. They don't need no stinkin' alarm system when I'm around. I lost part of my spunk though. I'm not as playful and I stopped chewing up things and digging in the yard. Mommy says I aged about 5 years. That's probably true for now. My body feels older. This weekend, Daddy took down the kennels. That was sad and weird. We still haven't found the perfect place to bury Sprinkles. Right now she is on Jaelyn's dresser in her "casket". Jaelyn wasn't ready to bury her but tonight she said she would be ok with it. I think secretively, no one is ready to bury it because then it's final. I have loved the freedom of running the house when my family is away. I have been sneaky, sleeping on the couches. I'm not sure how Mommy knows, but she does. She bought me a soft bed and put it in my favorite spot by the window so I can be a watch dog and protect the house. I love having a real "job" to do. Jaelyn has been spending the night alot with friends and I miss her when she is gone. She is always the one to make sure I have a pillow and I'm covered in blankets if I'm resting. She takes good care of me. Braden sneaks me treats. In fact, the other day, he gave me a whole handful of treats just for going outside to pee pee. Evan is talking about Sprinkles a little less. Avery is a teenager and sometimes lets me in his room. Honestly, it smells in there and the door automatically shuts behind me and I get trapped. Now, I like putting socks in my mouth, but to be stuck in a teenage boy's room for longer than an hour is torture! Overall, my recovery is near an end. My wounds have closed completely. Now we wait for hair to grow over the scars. That day will always be in my mind but I'm glad I have another chance and more time with this great family I call mine.

Life back to normal?

2011-11-10T11:09:00.000-08:00

Wow! These last 3 weeks have been really scary for me. I lost my best friend. I was hurt bad. But now I'm doing good! My staples were removed last week and the vet put a needle in my boobie to drain 180 ml of bloody fluid. I still look like I have a big boob there but it's looking better every day. The vet says it will take time to reabsorb. It's probably a shearing injury and now fluid is trapped between the skin and abdomen. I'll live. I just look like I had puppies and I now have one saggy boob. I have been going on walks with Daddy and Mommy and even get to go from drives. I have had a few play dates with Angel which helps me so I'm not missing Sprinkles so much. This weekend, I'm having a sleep over at Angel's house while my family goes out of town to a baseball tournament. I have gone to baseball practice a few times and I'm very good. Mommy says I've changed since the accident. I don't chew or dig anymore and I'm lazy. Just going on a short walk wears me out quick. I sleep alot during the day. In fact, since the accident I haven't had to go in my kennel. I get to have the freedom to roam the house. Sometimes I get stuck in Avery's room because the door closes by itself and I can't get out. That's not fun because it stinks in there. He IS a teenager! I'm eating my own food again, slowly but surely. The medicine I was on changed the taste of everything so nothing was appealing, except people food. Mommy made me rice and chicken, chicken and gravy, warmed up can dog food during my recovery. The kids gave me cookies, lots of treats, beggin' strips (my favorite!) and lots of kisses. I have a wonderful family who loves me so much! I am getting used to going outside in the backyard alone to relieve myself. For the first few weeks, I wanted someone to go with me. I still sleep in Jaelyn's bed for the most part at night but some mornings, Mommy will wake up with me beside her snoring and Daddy in the chair. When the kids goto bed at night, so do I. Even if Mommy and Daddy stay up to watch TV. I just head up the stairs and tuck myself in for the night. I am so lucky to still be alive. I'm not sure I'm ready for a new furry friend or not. Mommy says if we are going to do it, we should do it soon because she wants new carpet in the next few years and wants the potty training to be over with. Daddy misses Sprinkles alot still and isn't ready for a new puppy. They sort of like having just me to spoil. I think they are waiting to see if I give them an clues about needing a new friend to hand out with. I did overhear Mommy tell Daddy though that she found the name of a guy who rescues lab puppies and finds homes for them for very little money if not free. I guess I'll just have to wait and see. If I could talk I would tell them what I need. I got my first bath the other morning since the accident and Mommy cleaned off the black line that was across my back. It reminded her daily of the accident and she was ready to move on. They still have Sprinkles' ashes in a pretty box on the mantel. Jaelyn wants to keep it there forever but Mommy doesn't really like that. It creaps her out. They want to bury it but maybe it'll just have to go in the closet until everyone agrees to it. Evan misses Sprinkles alot too. He is just now finally understanding that she isn't coming back. He is sad about it. He asked Grandma if Sprinkles has wings now. Grandma started crying. Overall, life is bad to usual. Kids still coming and going in the house. Mommy and Daddy going to work and running errands. I'm just here, waiting to be petted and kissed. I guess this is the life, being lazy! I think the accident aged me. I'm only 2 in people years, 14 in dog years. But my body definitely slowed down and I feel more like I'm 6 or 7. Maybe time will change that. Who knows.

2 Weeks Post Accident

2011-11-04T11:02:00.000-07:00

I got my staples out this morning. They were concerned with my stomach because it looks like I have a big boob. They xrayed it to make sure it wasn't a hernia. It wasn't. They drained 180 ml of bloody fluid off and could have taken even more, but wanted to be cautious. The blood sample didn't have bacteria in it or anything concerning. Now Mommy has to apply heat twice a day for a while to help it reabsorb. I can now take a bath and go have a play date with grandma's dog, Angel. No more medications!

Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T20:10:00.000-07:00

Not sure what they want me to be. I'm pretty sure this isn't suppose to go around my neck, but instead, my butt. I think I look like a retard but Mommy says I'm cute. I like this holiday. There are tons of new kids ringing the door bell and my family brought me all kinds of new candy to try. I like wearing people clothes. Keeps me warm and makes me look extra pretty.

A few more photos...

2011-10-27T17:35:00.001-07:00

This is the saddest photo for Mommy. I was laying in front of the kennels where we spent our days when everyone was gone. Sprinkles had an anxiety issue when Mommy and Daddy would leave the house and she'd pee in the house. I have a chewing problem so it was best to kennel us I guess. The morning after the accident, I just laid on the floor in front of the kennels, starring at the empty kennel. Sprinkles scent was strong up there and it gave me comfort.

This is grandma's finger after Sprinkles bit her right before she passed away, moments after the tragic accident. Her jaw clamped down around this finger and the tooth went all the way through the skin to the underside of the finger. Grandma went to the ER afterwards but is having alot of pain and even numbness in her thumb on that hand. Monday, after seeing her doctor, she was admitted to the hospital to be on IV antibiotics. On Wednesday morning, Grandma had surgery on the finger. She is having alot of problems. I hate that she had to experience the events of that morning and then end up with an injury like this.

Recovering

2011-10-27T17:25:00.000-07:00

I'm doing well since the accident just a short 3 days ago. I'm leaving the staples alone so I don't have to wear the cone. No one's left me alone yet. That happens Tuesday when Mommy has to be at work. They have it set it up so that every 3 hours or so, someone will be coming over to check on me. They just want to ease me into having to be at home alone for long stretches of time, like when they goto baseball games or work. I got to come to baseball practice last night and did really well. Most of my days are spent laying in my favorite spot by the window on a bunch of comfy blankets. Mommy still is getting up in the night to medicate me with pain pills. My hind legs are more swollen as the days go on. I'm able to go up the stairs and climb onto the bed. The first night home was rough. Mommy and Daddy got to pick me up from the vet at 6:30p and were instructed to watch for me to urinate. I couldn't help it but I was whinning the whole way home and for the next 4 hours off and on. At bedtime I still hadn't urinated. As soon as all the lights were out I quietly climbed the stairs to go up to Jaelyn's room. I laid by Jaelyn's door, with my front paws under the door and my nose up to the crack under the door. Mommy left me in and I jumped on the bed, in my spot, and fell asleep. I just wanted normacy and to be with my sister Jaelyn. That next morning I finally urinated and Mommy was able to take out the saline lock IV that the vet left in "just in case". I was starting to perk up and wag my tail a little more. 3 days later and I'm having a hard time eating my own food and go out into the backyard alone. I usually stand by the back door but won't go out unless someone goes out with me. I won't pee however unless I'm alone. A girl needs privacy. It's getting out there that is difficult. It's because the whole back yard smells of my best friend, Sprinkles. I'm sure over the next few weeks, that will get better. I just pray as time goes on, my emotional pain will subside just as my physical pain. In the meantime, I'm getting people food, tons of treats, and their undivided attention. I'm gonna be one spoiled doggie but they don't care because I was given a second chance at life on Friday and I'm so grateful.

Worst Day EVER!

2011-10-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

Today was a terrible day. It started off with Mommy waking up late and getting to work and hour late. Only to get a phone call from the neighbor telling her there was a terrible accident with Sprinkles and me. Grandma was bringing us over to her house for the day to play so we wouldn't have to stay home alone. She does this from time to time and we love it. We usually run right out and jump in the back seat. Today, however, we both ran out into the street and both got hit by the same car. A man was bringing his kid to school and the sun was in his eyes. Never even saw us. Sprinkles laid in the street for a minute and Grandma went to touch her, she bit her finger and wouldn't let go. Grandma had to goto the ER to have it looked it. Once she got her hand out of Sprinkles mouth, she said she knew Sprinkles didn't look right. She was panting heavily and was dying. Meanwhile, I also got hit and was so scared I hid in my neighbor's garage. Grandma started screaming and the neighbors came out to see what was going on. By the time two neighbor men got there, Sprinkles had passed. I pray she didn't suffer long. Mommy left work and called Daddy who was in Austin at a conference, telling him he needed to come home right away. She couldn't imagine telling the kids and dealing with their grief alone. She pulled up to the house and saw neighbors standing by the garage and I was laying in the back corner, panting heavily. I had tire track marks on my back, she could see her left leg's tendons, and my abdomen was bloody, like road rash. I had other lacerations as well. I guess I was going into shock. My eyes were not focused on Mommy. I wasn't moving around. I knew Mommy was there but she was really afraid I would try to bite her. Her sister in law, Christine, came over and had a muzzle in her car from her dog and they put it on me. Then 2 of the men in the neighborhood helped move me onto a blanket and lift me up into the back of Daddy's truck. I hardly moved. It hurt too badly. Mommy took me to the emergency vet and they x-rayed me, confirming there were no broken bones. They didn't have an ultrasound machine to see about internal bleeding but all my organs were in the right places so that was a good sign. I started getting pain medications right away and IV fluids to help with any blood loss and to help with the shock I was going through. Avery's friend drove by and saw that we got hit and told him at school so he started texting Mommy. Mommy had her friend Megan go pick him up and bring him to me at the vet. After they left there, they picked up Jaelyn and Braden. Telling Jaelyn was the hardest thing she has ever done. When Mommy saw both Braden and Jaelyn crying, all she could do was say, "I'm sorry". It was tearing her heart out. Daddy got home just 20 minutes after Mommy told them. They took the older kids to the vet to check on me and to say goodbye to Sprinkles. Sprinkles looked like she was sleeping peacefully. There wasn't any blood on her. All of her injuries must have been internal. They all kissed her and said their goodbye's. Evan and Braden stayed with grandma. Today we lost a family member. I lost my best friend. Sprinkles was a wonderful friend and pet for my family for the last 10 years. She was a fantastic dog. She will forever be missed. Rest in peace sweet girl. We love you! 1/2001-10/21/2011

Pillow and Chew Toys

2011-02-20T12:01:00.000-08:00

The best Christmas gift I got was this wreath rawhide. It took me hours to get through it and boy was my mouth sore by the end of it! As you can see, I'm used as pillow in our house by the kids. I sleep with Jaelyn so I'm used to her using me as a huggy pillow. Evan likes to lean on me too. I don't mind. I like being touched so it's no big deal. When Mommy lays on the floor for Daddy to crack her back, I worry and get nose to nose with her to "protect" her. I do this when she lays on the couch too and tries to take a nap. She opens her eyes when I get just close enough for her to feel my cold wet nose on her nose. I take care of my people!

Doctor appointment and other updates

2011-01-12T08:07:00.001-08:00

I had to go to the vet this morning for a check up. They said I was 60 lbs and most likely won't get much bigger. My ears have been touchy lately and now I know why. They are full of wax and I have an ear infection. The vet put some ear medicine in my ears and it's stinky. I have to go back for a recheck in 2 weeks. I was a good girl, just a little scared. The vet cut my toenails and I moved so one started to bleed. That hurt a little. I also got 2 shots. Not sure what they are for, rabies and something else. All I know is I don't have to get another shot for 3 years. Thank goodness! My little brother, Evan, came with my mommy and gave me treats for being such a good girl. Not too traumatizing I guess.

I have a new trick, by the way. I can get on top of the trampoline when the kids are up there. They try not to jump when I'm on it because Mommy said it might break my legs but it's really fun. The neighbor dog and I like to sniff each other through the fence and I spend most of the day outside when I'm home with Mommy trying to keep birds out of my bush and trees. By supper time, I'm really tired and ready for bed at 8:30 when my sister, Jaelyn, turns out the lights. My new favorite chew toys are barbies. I love the way the feet and hands taste. If they don't want me to play with their toys, those kids shouldn't leave them out for me to get while they sleep. I have my own toys but after I "kill" my stuffed animals by ripping out the stuffing, it's not fun to play with anymore. Another special treat for me are silly bands. These are rubber bracelets that the kids like to wear. They gave me a belly ache once so I barfed them up. They usually they don't digest well and I get busted when Mommy picks up poop. I've become quite the beggar. I learned that if I use my "sad eyes", I will most likely get a taste of human food. Boy, do I have them fooled. Mommy has been trusting Sprinkles and I for longer periods of time to be out of our cages when she is gone. Still not ready for a full day though. I chewed through the bottom of my kennel; the plastic tray that I sit on. Mommy is stumped as to how exactly I did it. It started with me making a small hole in the middle and then chewing it completely in half. It has taken me months to accomplish this but I think she gets the hint that I don't like it in there. I've ate 2 blankets, 2 beds, and now this. My favorite spot to lay is behind the little couch with my head on the window sill, laying in the sun, and looking outside at my backyard. I love it back there. On New Year's Eve, I enjoyed trying to chase the fireworks in the sky. My friend, Angel, came over but she was a chicken and went inside because the noise scared her. She wasn't very good company that night. I wasn't afraid. I was brave! Mommy says she was surprised because usually I'm a chicken and I freak out over every little noise. I'm just protecting my family. I love them so much! I have a great family and I couldn't be any happier. This has been the best year of my life! Stay tuned for more stories about my life. I'm sure I'll be making new memories to write about.

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T09:28:00.000-08:00

As you can see, I've outgrown the stocking. Remember last year when Daddy put me inside Jaelyn's stocking? I've had a fantastic first year with my new family! I love them all dearly and even though I still wonder what my fury siblings are doing these days, I have no thumbs to send them a Christmas card. Today is about spending time with family and loving each other. I'm certainly not feeling the love as my people are busy building lego sets, playing new DS games, and not sharing their candy with me. I tried to sneak a candy bar out of the stocking but Daddy caught me. Last year I was the big "Santa" gift for Jaelyn. This year she got an art set. I'm pretty sure I'm still the best gift she's ever gotten.

Go back and look at Christmas 2009. I was a little smaller than Sprinkles in that Christmas photo. Now look at me!! I'm huge! Must be all the rawhides and treats I get. Sprinkles still rules the roost here and puts me in my place when I'm acting too crazy. She is trying to teach me to be a good girl before she passes the reigns to me as the Alpha Female. She is very greedy and makes sure if I have a rawhide or toy she wants that she gets it. She will come right up to me and take it from my mouth! MEANIE! Then she teases me by eating MY big bone. Oh course, in the end, I eat both of our bones since I am a chewer and she is old. But it's the fact that I outweigh her by 40-50 lbs easily and she still has that much control.

My birthday!

2010-10-08T12:27:00.000-07:00

It was my first birthday on Oct. 7th. We had a birthday party and I got my very own cupcake to eat. Grandma bought me a gumby toy and Mommy got me this great new "Birthday Girl" bandana. I can't believe it's been a year since I was born. Seems like it's been 7! I'm doing great at my new home and I love my family. Sometimes I wonder what my real brothers and sisters are doing and where they are these days. But I have been blessed and I wouldn't trade it for the anything! Happy Birthday to Me!

Wondering where I've been?

2010-09-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

Hello folks! I haven't posted in a while because I've just been busy enjoying life. This summer has been really cool having the kids around. I loved getting the extra attention and snacks. Evan likes to constantly touch my tail or lay on me. He's tried to ride me like a horse a few times but I don't really like that. He's a heavy kid! I did spend alot of time in my kennel which is really boring, because my humans are always on the go. Daddy went to Mexico and my sister Sprinkles decided to get really sick. She had to goto the doctor and be on special medications and food. Fortunately for me, she didn't like the vet's food and I ate it. Then after she got better, my family went away for 10 days, leaving me at my grandma's house with my BFF, Angel! We played hard every day and slept hard every night. I was pretty depressed when I went home, only because I missed being my friend everyday. The kids are back in school, which means more naps for me. I was a little irritated with being left at home last week while the kids were gone soooooo.... I ate one of Mommy's good shoes,(and got a big spanking for it!) I chewed the wood by the front door more, (I hear tabasco might me in store for me since the No Chew spray isn't working.) I ripped off and chewed up a tassle off Mommy's decorative pillow for her bed. I ate it. I was going to keep it a secret but I think they are on to me because the strings are starting to come out of my butt and Mommy is chasing me around the house trying to pull them out. I'm a dog, what to they expect from me? What goes in MUST come out. I really do think I need a support group though for my addiction to chewing. I always have to have something in my mouth. Usually I steal Jaelyn's stuffed animals when she is gone. I always have a shoe in my mouth if not a toy. Mommy says it's my oral fixation stage. Babies go through it so why wouldn't a puppy? I'm gonna be 11 months old Sept 7th and I turn 1 year old on October 7th! My mommy is planning a birthday party for me. We are inviting Angel, Onyx, Toby, and of course, Sprinkles. Mommy is going to goto Petco and get special goodie bags for my guests and we are going to get cupcakes. I can't wait! I've also figured out my job in this house. I'm here to protect the house from the wind, cars that drive by, and people that walk on the sidewalk. I use my deep, mean, bark to alert my people that we are in danger. I am on duty 24 hrs a day but my super hero hearing kicks in after the kids are in bed. I've been allowed to sleep with Jaelyn at night instead of in my cage. I love sleeping in a bed! But somenights, I lay on her bed and growl at the door because I hear loud sounds outside. It scares her and she thinks a kidnapper is coming for her. Doesn't she know I would protect her if that ever really happened? These are my peeps! I love people food. If it's on the table and they walk away, it's mine. Especially corndogs on a stick. That's easy to grab off the plate. If they are sitting on the couch and I use my sad eyes and get really close, they usually give me a bite. I got to eat leftover spaghetti once and barfed at my grandma's house three times so spaghetti is off the menu for me from now on. It's Sprinkle's favorite though.

So that's what's been going on here in my busy life. Stay tuned for more details about my birthday party!

Excursion

2010-06-08T14:57:00.001-07:00

We took a trip to the vet today to get weighed. I topped the scales at 51 lbs and Sprinkles was only 29 lbs. Afterwards, we went up to the middle school football field to run off leash. Sprinkles was naughty and found the exit in the fence. Jaelyn had to run after her and then she was put back in a leash time out. We had to come home shortly after that because that old dog ruined it and could barely breathe. I try to stay close to my mommy when I'm off the leash because I don't want to be left behind. I'm 8 months old now. I had a birthday yesterday. I'm surprised I didn't get a new toy or rawhide. Mommy says that when I eat rawhide, my farts are deadly. I blame it on Sprinkles!

Outside with the party

2010-05-23T19:03:00.001-07:00

Today, my 2 shortest brothers had a big birthday party. It was no fun watching from inside the house so Mommy put me on a chain and let me hang out in the shade where the real party was. I was a good girl. I didn't bark except when a little girl on a bike trying to come over to crash my people's party. Sprinkles stayed in the house but then later got to come out with us. It was nice and hot outside. I was worn out and glad to get back into the AC like a real pet. All the kids came up to pet me but I still just get too excited and my mommy was afraid I was gonna scratch and hurt one of the short people. Now that the party is over, I'm gonna camp out for a few hours on my sister's bed. It's very comfy and she's the only one that really welcomes me in it.

7 Months Old

2010-05-10T09:36:00.000-07:00

On May 7th, I turned 7 months old. Look at this face. How can someone get mad at this sweet face! I always try to have these puppy dog eyes, just in case I'm in trouble for eating something I shouldn't. Like my bed. Yes, I tore my bed to shreds. Now I don't have a comfy pillow to lay on. And yes, I chew on the window sills. I even ate a wood block. Why must I have this addiction to wood and cotton? It's my drug! I need a rehab program I think. The warden is going to lock me up if I continue to do it. She's a hard head. I have learned that when she raises her voice at me, I better run and hide behind the couch or the chair, or under the table. She gets all weird eye'd and bent of out shape. I know when I'm in a heap of trouble! But for now, look at these puppy dog eyes. Aren't I just the cutest thing in the world?

Cute photo

2010-04-30T00:37:00.000-07:00

This is as far up on the couch as I'm allowed. Not really fair as Sprinkles gets to lay all the way up and even on the back of the couch like a cat. I really like to help Mommy when she's working on the computer but since she gets mad when I try to type, I opt for hanging out on the side and watching or sitting by her feet.

This has become one of my new favorite spots for 2 reasons. #1. It's located next to the food table, particularly under my little brother, Evan's chair. #2. I can cool off on the cold tile.

See! Sprinkles get to be up there! NOT FAIR!

My mug shot

2010-04-29T05:54:00.000-07:00

Look how pretty I am! Who's a pretty girl? That's right! You guessed it! ME!!

Thelma and Louise

2010-04-27T06:13:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, Daddy took us to Grandma's house to play with Angel. I thought I'd give him a break and drive Sprinkles and myself there. Updates on me...I'm around 45 lbs and nearly 7 months old. I still dig holes in the backyard because I have found chunks of cement buried in the yard that I like to chew on. I have a new found love for playing catch with a tennis ball. As the weather gets warmer, I have found that the kitchen floor helps to keep me cool. Mommy has let me stay out of the kennel at night a few nights but it's hard to have 2 dogs in the bed. She says it gives her a backache, so I usually have to sleep in my kennel. Evan turned 3 and got a whole bunch of new fun little balls called Bakugans that I like to steal and run around the house with . He gets so mad at me but it's funny. I haven't pooped in the house in a long time but did have an accident in the kitchen yesterday and then again a few days ago when I squatted and peed right in Jaelyn's shoe. Other than that, I'm really doing good about going outside. Those were freak incidents. One of my favorite times of day is when the dishes are being loaded into the dishwasher. I usually can sneak a few licks off a dirty plate. Other than that, they restrict my people food. I usually clear my food bowl twice a day, eating 1 1/2 very large scoops of dog food. Before, Mommy only had to buy 1 bag of dog food for Sprinkles every 3-4 months and now she is buying us the extra large bag every month. I have a good appetite.

My first Easter!

2010-04-08T08:30:00.000-07:00

Easter came and went and I still haven't even snuck any chocolate!

Who Says Dogs Don't Smile!?

2010-03-19T17:54:00.000-07:00

Angel is my best friend!

Labs love to smile!

We have a house guest this weekend and I'm SOOOOO excited to have someone my size to rough house with. Aunt Angel is spending the night with us for 2 nights this month and again for a whole week in April. She is so fun to chew on and I love pulling her hair. We run around the kitchen and living room in a big circle over and over again. I know I'm the instigator and the big turd. At least that's what Mommy says. I like to grab her with my front paws and chew on her neck. Her hair tastes wonderful! Sprinkles thinks we are really fighting and gets really mad at us. She is the 3rd wheel and is very protective of me. As soon as Angel nips at me or growls at me, Sprinkles is right up her butt. Seriously! Her nose goes straight up Angel's smelly butt! Gross!

Naughty Doggie!

2010-03-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

I look cute, right? Well, I got in BIG trouble today. While my mommy and daddy were outside cleaning out the garage, I did this....

I heard mommy say she was going to "kill" me! I sure hope not! I like living here. I spent alot of time outside this afternoon by myself. So I did what any sad, lonely lab would do...

I dug another hole. As you can see, mommy's already filled it with my poop. It's suppose to keep me from digging but it doesn't work. After all that, mommy decided I needed to get out and run and get worn out. So she took me up to the middle school track. I don't get too far away from her. I'm afraid she'll really leave me. So I run a little and then come back to wait for her. I'm so good that she didn't even put me on a leash on the way back to the car. Why can't I just learn to be good like that all the time?

My 5 month photo shoot

2010-03-08T18:18:00.000-08:00

5 months old on March 7th

2010-03-04T06:50:00.000-08:00

I've been in a hysterectomy induced menapause for 6 days and it's not slowing me down at all. In fact, I can jump higher, scratch harder, and tear things to shreds a little easier. I have most of my big teeth in so that helps too. I can reach the top of the table and since lately I have been giving table scraps, I think everything on the table is up for my taking. I find corn dogs to be especially easy to get off a plate when no one is looking. Tried it now 3 times but unfortunately, I got caught. Give me another week and I'll get faster at it. They won't even know what happened! I have sort of always had a fettish with wet wipes and it's really fun to pull them out of the container. But when I can't get my teeth on those, I will get old kleenexes from the trash or toilet paper or even Bounce sheets. All work the same for me. And it leaves my breath smelling a little fresher. One of my other fettishes is the blow dryer. When I was a baby, my other owners used it to dry me off after a bath, but now the minute I hear it turn on, I wait patiently for Mommy to blow air in my face so I can try to catch it with my mouth. Mommy said she likes to close her eyes when she turns it on, count to 5 and when she opens her eyes, there I am sitting in front of her. Since my surgery, I have invited myself up on the furniture more. I now nap on the couch next to my sister Sprinkles. We are best friends. I still sleep at night in the crate but some nights, mommy and daddy let me watch TV with them in bed. I haven't had an accident in the house for a long time. (Just wait, now I'll forget and have one because I said that!)I only like to go outside if Sprinkles goes with me. We've gotten out the front door a few times together and run in the neighbors' yard. We get yelled at and have to come back in but I stay close to Sprinkles and do whatever she does. She's my role model and idol. Evan really likes me. He keeps coming up to me and saying, "You're my BEST doggie!" That makes me happy. I am very tolerable of his rough play. He stays home with me when the others goto school. I think we'll be best buddies for a long time.

Pre and Post surgery

2010-02-26T18:39:00.000-08:00

These photos were taken this morning before my surgery. See, I've finally gotten bigger than Sprinkles!! I outweigh her by 4 lbs too!

My surgery went well from what the vet told my daddy. I went there at 8:30 and Daddy picked me up at 5:30. I haven't tried to jump up on the bed or rough-house Sprinkles since I've been home. I have gotten alot of treats which I'm thankful for because I was starved earlier today. When daddy picked me up, I peed all over the vet's floor from excitement that they came back for me. Jaelyn is hanging out with me on the floor while the rest of the family is snuggling in bed. I'm not suppose to lick my incision too much while it heals. If I do, they have to put some kind of cone thing on me. That doesn't sound attractive. I get 1 pain pill a day, which is suppose to last all day. I have to take antibiotics twice a day too for about a week. I don't like to take pills so mommy gives it to me with a treat. Overall, it went ok and I'm feeling alright.

"Spay or Neuter Your Pets"--Bob Barker

2010-02-24T09:16:00.001-08:00

Now, I know that it's important not to get overpopulated but do you really think that this photo is true? Over a 6 year time frame, if the litters of these 2 dogs would never be spayed or neutered, there would be approx 67,000 dogs running around the world! All because two dogs fell in love! Aww! That's sweet. But Friday I have to go under the knife and lose all my hopes and dreams for offspring. No 2am feedings for this girl! No sleepless nights. No having to teach the ropes that I'm still learning to 8 little bratty puppies. So overall, it's probably for the best.

Here's what we know so far. Friday morning I'm not allowed to eat or drink anything. I have to arrive at the vet's office at 8am and stay until 4:30 or so. I have to stay low key and not chew on my incision. I don't think that will be a problem! I may lick it to death but definitely I won't sharpen any teeth on it. I get sent home on pain pills I think and maybe antibiotics. I will spend alot of time in my crate so my mommy is making sure my special blanket and bed are super clean and comfy. Keeping a 5 month old puppy down is going to be hard and not to mention, a little mean. I just hope I heal fast so I get back to the finer things in life, like eating bark, digging holes, and driving Sprinkles crazy.

On the prowl...

2010-02-19T14:25:00.000-08:00

(This is NOT a photo of Bella and Sprinkles)

Today Sprinkles took me on a field trip. The back gate was left open by some appraiser guy and to our surprise, we were free! I was a little scared so I stayed with my rebelous sister, Sprinks (that's her street name.) Sprinks told me were we heading to the bayou to hang out and find us some male tail. Since I'm getting "fixed" next Friday, I thought, why not find me a quick boyfriend. Much to our dismay, our neighbor, the one I scratched in the eye, came and picked us up and brought us home. So I'm still boyfriend-less and never been kissed. So much for one last (or first in my case) fling.

Oh NO!

2010-02-18T08:42:00.001-08:00

I peed on Mommy's bed last night. I am grounded from getting up there now. Why can't I control my bladder???

I killed all my stuffed animal toys and they are now in the garbage grave yard. Why are my teeth so deadly?

I am on the prowl for open chip bags, bowls of popcorn, and anything that is on the floor that could potentionally be good to eat. Why am I such a carb junkie?

I bring in rocks, mulch, and mud into the house. Why am I so outdoorsy?

I try to help pick up laundry, shoes, and anything else on the floor. Why am I such a neat freak at times?

BECAUSE I'M A BIG DUMB LAB!! That's why!

"I can sing!"

2010-02-16T15:18:00.001-08:00

I found my voice and I must say that I should try out for American Idol-Doggie Style. Ever heard of it? Nah, I just made it up. But Simon might like that title! Anyways, I have learned that I have a voice. I especially like to sing at Sprinkles or when I'm outside. Sometimes in the evening if I see something move in the shadows, I will sing to make sure everyone can enjoy my song. Some call it barking, I call it singing. Some call it annoying. I call it exquisite. I have a "cake" life. I get spoiled. I get scratched on the belly and behind the ears whenever I want. I get to sleep on an overstuffed pillow. I have it made in the shade! Why on earth wouldn't I want others to enjoy my sound of praises? Just as a baby cries, a dog must bark. It's our way of being heard and an expression of a need maybe not being met. It's a way for us to protect ourselves and our loved families. It's a talent for some, like myself, even though I'm a little ashamed to admit that I'm female and I'm a tenor. Either way, I promise to use my talent to make this world a little more enjoyable for all who share it with me. I promise.

I have a few new friends!

2010-02-11T08:57:00.000-08:00

Know what these are? Ear mites! Yes, I have ear bugs. My mommy noticed I was having bloody ears and that I was shaking my ears and scratching alot. So when I went for my rabies shot and my 3rd round of puppy vaccines yesterday, the vet confirmed it. Not sure how long they have been there or who I got them from. I've only been around Phyliss once and Angel maybe 3-4 times. So we are treating Sprinkles too just to be safe. On my way to the vet yesterday, I got car sick and barfed all over. I felt bad about it so I tried to clean it up myself by eating it but then barfed it up again. Sorry Mommy! My brother Avery is home with us today and was yesterday too. He is sick. We thought it was his ears too. Maybe mites like me? But humans can't get them and it's strep throat instead. One of new favorite toys is this:
It is very fun to kick and chase around the living room. Plus it makes noise when those yellow pieces are inside. I wish there were treats inside. That would make it more fun!

Week 18

2010-02-09T06:32:00.000-08:00

I'm 29 lbs at 18 weeks. Not much new to report except that I'm still growing, still chewing, still digging, still eating rocks. Life it good! I love my new home and family!

Sprinkles had a birthday!

2010-02-08T07:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to Sprinkles! Her and Jaelyn share a birthday since they are the same age and Mommy doesn't really know when Sprinkles real birthday is. In dog years, she is 63 yrs old! Guess that's why she doesn't like to play as much as I do. Guess that's why she likes to nap alot and scolds me when I get out of control. She's OLD! Mommy lit the candles for her to blow out but she was scared of the fire so Jaelyn, Braden, and Evan helped. She got to eat a piece of cake but I didn't. Not fair! Mommy said it was because I barfed in my crate the night before from eating too many new rawhides and Old Roy bones. I got a nasty tummy ache and lost my cookies, no pun intended. They are also changing our dog food to the regular adult formula because Mommy is sick of me eating the "senior" formula of Sprinkles, and Sprinkles eating my "puppy" formula. So we get to eat the same thing. We still have 2 separate bowls but I usually end up eating both, twice a day. I was a pig in a former life I think. Sprinkles is the only one that gets table scraps. Don't get me wrong, I beg just like a good dog would but they don't give in. They say I'm too little to get all that junk right now. What they don't know is that when they aren't looking, I steal popcorn, crackers, and best of all crayons! Yum Yum! Delicious! Jaelyn might be my favorite human to play with but Evan is my favorite human to beg for food from. He usually feeds me something new and tasty. I'm down to only peeing in the house every 3 days or so now. I'm getting there. Just when Mommy thinks, "Bella hasn't peed in the house for a while", then I do it so she doesn't forget I'm still just a puppy.

Week 17

2010-02-02T21:05:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it! I accomplished my goal in 17 short weeks and I'm now approximately the same weight as my sister Sprinkles. I hit 27lbs, 2 ozs! As you can see, I'm getting very comfortable being in her space (or crate) and she's getting more tolerant of me, unless she is really sleepy. Then, she's just a real bitch. I was playing with mommy with my tug of war toy and had to stop tonight because my mouth started to bleed. Boy does that taste gross. My mommy looked on the carpet and found a very, very small piece of a tooth. I wasn't interested in her sticking her fingers in my mouth to search for the source of the bleed or to see what tooth came out, after all, it's flu season and you never know what germs are floating around on human hands! I think my sister is going to take the tooth as a trophy or something to school tomorrow. She has a loose tooth too and wants to lose it while at school so she gets a cool little tooth shaped box to keep it in. I think that's crazy. I just eat my teeth that fall out. I eat rocks. I eat sticks. I even tried to eat Evan's new train track today. I'm getting really good at picking up after my humans. Socks, shoes, combs, whatever I bring them, they say, "Not your toy, Bella!" Can't they see I'm just being helpful and trying to earn my allowance too? Mommy is still home with me after having her surgery and she's doing really well. I'm trying to be good about NOT peeing in the house but I still have accidents every few days. Just depends how much attention I am getting. I have learned that if I go outside and come in and sit like a pretty girl, I almost always win a special treat from the "candy" jar. One more thing that I almost forgot! I have learned to jump up and balance on top of the cooler that is kept outside by the kitchen window, so I can get a better peak inside. I know they know that I'm out there! I can see them looking at me! So since they don't always respond to my "knocks" at the back door, I have started tapping on the window. There's this screen though that is getting in my way so I am trying to remove it with my long finger nails. Speaking of finger nails, mine seem to grow so long, so sharp, so fast. I scratched the neighbor lady in the eye a few days ago. Opps! My bad! So that's it for this busy week! Time to go eat some more. I have more growing to do! Chow! (Get it? Chow??!!! Funny!)

WHEW!

2010-01-26T06:34:00.000-08:00

I don't have stinky butt today so I think I just bought myself some time. Thank goodness! Expressing anal glands didn't sound fun AT ALL! And after mommy watched a video on how to do it at home, she was convinced that was not in her nursing scope of practice.

Bath Time and Week 16

2010-01-25T18:09:00.000-08:00

I'm 23 lbs, 6 ozs at 16 weeks. This was a slow week in growth it seems. When my daddy came home tonight he smelled something awful but couldn't find the smell. I didn't have an accident but they were looking directly at me as the source. Next thing I knew I was in the tub. It may have looked fun but it's not. Next thing I hear is mommy talking about the vet tomorrow and anal glands. What is this that they speak of? Even with the bath, I smell. I'm a dog. But mommy is about to puke so I guess I have an "issue". We'll see tomorrow or whenever they can fit me in.

Spoiled brat that I am...

2010-01-24T21:25:00.000-08:00

See how I get treated? Like the spoiled brat I am! I love it too! Mommy lifts me into her lap and holds me like a baby, rocking me in the chair, rubbing my fat little belly. I am the baby of the family and really love it deep down. It gets me out of so much trouble.

Look at that face though. They are trying to turn me into one of those ugly wrinkled sharpei dogs. No thanks! If that ever happens, I'm using mommy's plastic surgeon and having some botox done.

I'm a lab, people!

2010-01-24T19:31:00.000-08:00

Look really close at these. I may appear awake but I'm really asleep with my eyes open. It grosses my mommy out. I may look cute but I've been doing some naughty stuff this week. I ripped up the carpet by the kitchen in the living room. My defense, it WAS loose and so I just helped it along. (I overheard mommy say she wants new carpet so I really don't think she minds too much.) I also don't like to be left outside for very long so I have been scratching up the door with my muddy paws (remember, I'm a digger!) and I've been scratching on the window screen. There was already a rip in it from Sprinkles, I imagine. I can see them in there, ignoring me! Once I get a little bigger, I'm gonna learn how to open the door like my Aunt Angel does. My new favorite treats are pine cones and sticks. I eat them. Oh, and rocks! I love me a salty little rock! When I am in trouble for peeing in the house, I like to hide from my daddy under the table. I don't like my nose rubbed in that pee spot! Gross! I also have learned that mommy really likes it when I act all grown up and sit pretty for her. I just sit there and give her my puppy dog eyes and she melts. Quickest way to have them forget I pooped on the sleeping bag, peed on my sister's bed, and continue to get out the wet wipes, tearing them to shreds. I'm a lab, people! It's what I do! I cause trouble and look cute doing it.

My best friend

2010-01-24T19:12:00.001-08:00

This is Angel, she's my aunt. She lives with Grandma and Grandpa Dykmann. She came over and played with me tonight. I like to bite her neck and pull her long hair on her face. She doesn't care for it but she tolerates it and doesn't try to bite me. We play so hard that by the end of the night, when she goes home, I crash and so does she, grandma says. She is alot bigger than me but not that much in terms of weight. Grandma said she weighs only 37 lbs. I'm gonna catch her in a few month! Right now, I'm the smallest dog when Sprinkles, Angel, and I get together but soon I'll be the biggest. Tables will turn my friend! HA HA!

(I'm asleep on the floor under my mom's chair and I fart in my sleep. STINKY!)

New friend and doggy jail

2010-01-22T06:38:00.001-08:00

Last night, our friends Nick and Mary came over with the newest member of their family, Phyliss, a 1 year old female daschund that they recently adopted from the shelter and named after their favorite character from "The Office". I immediately hit it off with her and we played and she tried to show her dominance over me by humping me. (For the record, I don't play for that team!) My sister, Sprinkles, however, did NOT hit it off with Phyliss. At first daddy thought it was Sprinkles who was causing the dispute but after Sprinkles spent some time in doggy jail (a.k.a. the crate) she came out and we found out it really was Phyliss who started the growling and nipping. Sprinkles was just standing her ground and sticking up for herself. After all, this is HER castle, not Phyliss's. Or as Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer, would say, "Sprinkles is the pack leader of our house." I actually thought Sprinkles was gonna EAT Phyliss when they were going at it. Daddy had to pull Sprinkles back and I think she had a bit of a nervous breakdown feeling so threatened by another dog. I felt so sorry for Sprinkles while she was in jail that I went into my crate and waited for her to do her time and get out. That's what sisters do for each other. I'm not sure we will be having another play date with Phyliss again.

Vet appointments and pending surgery

2010-01-20T14:50:00.000-08:00

Daddy took me to see the vet today for my 2nd round of shots. Lucky me! When I got home, Mommy shoved a pill down my throat. She said it helps prevent heartworm and fleas. I over heard her on the phone making ANOTHER appt for my last rounds of shots and a rabies shot, along with scheduling my surgery. I'm having a hysterectomy it appears, just like Mommy had. My surgery is scheduled for Feb. 26th. I have to take a week off being a crazy puppy and stay low key so I can recovery appropriately. Mommy laughed and told the lady that that may be impossible with another dog in the house and 4 kids. I overheard the use of the word "crate" alot during that phone call. Maybe Grandma Roos will come stay with me during my recovery just like she did with Mommy? I'll have to give her a call later. She would surely spoil me rotten again. I'm hope I get gifts and flowers too since I'll be a brave patient. Did I mention Mommy was jealous my surgery costs only $75 plus $1/lb of the dog. So it'll be a little over $100 by then. She wishes her's was billed like that too!

Week 15

2010-01-18T16:12:00.000-08:00

This was a big week for me! In a matter of 6 days, it appears that I gained a ton of weight. Last week, I weighed in at 19lbs 2 ozs and this week I'm a whopping 22 lbs 2 ozs! In 3 more weeks, at this rate, I'll be as big as Sprinkles. I did experience some people food this week, like pretzels. Guess all those carbs went straight to my butt!

Week 14

2010-01-17T14:12:00.000-08:00

This past week, my Grandma Roos came to visit to help take care of my mommy, who had surgery. I was good all week and only had a few accidents. Grandma paid me alot of attention and I really liked her. I behaved for the first few days because I didn't really know her yet. But by mid week, I showed her my naughty side as I fought with my sister, Sprinkles, stole grandma's shoes and hide one in the laundry room, and jumped on the furniture. I'm big enough to get up on the couch now but mommy says I'll be too big too soon so I have to stay off. It's not fair. Grandma noticed I take out more toys than my brother Evan. She had to keep picking up my toys and I kept going to the basket and getting them out again. It was a fun game. I haven't lost any teeth yet but I'm sure that will come soon. I was 19lbs 2 ozs, 4 days ago. I got my first taste of ice cream when mommy dropped some on the floor. Yummy! I also got my first taste of throw up. Sprinkles over ate and barfed and I ate it. Not as good as ice cream! I have alot of fun chewing on my brush, the blankets, the crab net that my brother found, really anything and everything. I found my voice and use it to play fight with my sister when Evan is trying to nap. Mommy gets pretty mad and makes me "sit". That's the only trick I have mastered. One of my favorite games is going upstairs to my sister's room and stealing one of her stuffed animals. I usually get the kitty out. I scratch at the door like Sprinkles when I want to get in after being outside for a long time. But I still don't understand that I have to go to the door when I want to potty. I just squat wherever I want still. Daddy gets to take me back to the vet for more shots this week. I overheard mommy say that I get to have surgery next. Maybe in March. Jaelyn wants me to have babies but mommy said that's not gonna happen. Good, cuz I'm still a baby myself. I like being the baby. I still get craddled and cuddled and I get away with murder!

My sister Sprinkles and Me

2010-01-06T16:59:00.000-08:00

Week 13

2010-01-05T17:07:00.000-08:00

I'm 18.4 lbs!! When I first got here and tried to put my feet up on the couch, on my hind legs, I only reached the couch cushion with my chin. Now I can reach it with my chest when I stand on my back legs. I have so much more energy too! Tonight I humped my little brother. He's so cute!

Sunday Funnies

2010-01-03T06:55:00.000-08:00

So today, my little brother Evan came downstairs and told Daddy he has to goto the potty. Daddy was pretty excited about it so he took off his diaper only to find it full of poop. When he wasn't looking, I grabbed the diaper and took off running through the house. Now, who doesn't like a good poopy diaper to chew on once in a while? Daddy wasn't very happy to find me covered in poop and poop on the carpet. I got a bath. Don't they know that the morning is my friskiest time of day? I'm suppose to cause trouble. I'm a puppy!

I'm a digger! I love to pull weeds with my teeth and help my mommy. I have a few special places around my yard that I like to dig. But for some reason, my mommy is putting my poop there so I quit doing it. I'm a chewer too! If it's on the floor, it's not safe. Flip flops are my favorite. They taste salty and oh so good! I have my own basket of toys but the drum sticks, legos, and trains are so much more fun. I still like to eat Sprinkles food. And I've learned how to "sit". Each time I do it, I get a special treat. I'm getting really good at it. Now they want me to lay down and shake though. That's too much work. I can't remember all that at once. Oh, I almost forgot about the red light that keeps appearing in the yard, in the house, on the wall. It comes and goes and it's so fun to chase! I can't catch it but everyone laughs when I chase it. They call it a laser light.

I went to the vet for the first time on New Year's Eve. They decided to restart my vaccines and check me for worms. They stuck this HUGE stick thing up my butt and wouldn't ya know? I have hook worms! They are the worst supposedly and they can suck out my blood making me anemic. So not only did I get a shot but I had to take some nasty medicine. They tell me I have to go back 2 more times, 3 weeks apart. I was put on a leash for the first time and I do not like that! I pulled back and tried to bite the leash. It was sort of a game to me but it was pulling my neck and I wasn't having fun. Finally, Mommy just picked me up and carried me. That won't last cuz I'm gonna grow real big, real soon. They talked about when I will have surgery and decided that I should have it by the time I'm 5-6 months because if I'm too big, the vet can't handle me. So after mommy gets fixed this week, it'll be my turn.

I have mastered going up and down the stairs. I usually go up there to wake up my sister in the mornings and to say goodnight and snuggle for a bit with her at bedtime. I have given in to the fact that I am suppose to sleep in my crate. If I'm tired and it's bedtime, I go right in without a fight. I have my own blanket and toys in my bed so if I wake up, I just play until someone lets me out. If I have to potty, I just whine a little and someone gets up with me. It's a good set up.

That's it for now. I'm doing great! Oh, I almost forgot...my New Year's Resolution is to dig myself out of the backyard so I can chase the kids around the island. That is so much fun!

Week 12

2009-12-29T18:43:00.000-08:00

I'm 15.6 lbs and 12 weeks old! I'm so happy in my new home with my new family! I'm thriving and I'm in love with everyone in the house. Life is good! Today I escaped from my cage while my mommy and daddy were at work. I think daddy forgot to lock the cage tightly but who cares! I got loose and had full roam of the house for a good 4 hours. When daddy came home, I was sitting outside Sprinkles' cage next to her. I felt bad she had to be in the cage while I got to explore and chew on stuff. I didn't destroy anything THIS time but I did leave my mark upstairs in the hallway. I also like to run up and down the stairs and go visit my sister in her bedroom at night. Mostly because she lets me sleep in her bed. As soon as mommy brings me down, I go right back up there for a night time snuggle. I got to play really rough with my aunt Angel, grandma's dog. She is a nut! She was running with me and then jumping over me. I got the wind knocked out of me a few times that afternoon but it was fun to have someone play rough with. Just wait until I get bigger than her! She's in for it! I love to pull butt wipes out of the wet wipes container too. They just keep coming out! They may taste soapy but I like it. Mommy uses them to clean my ears. I have tried to eat socks, shoes, and even my mom's underwear. She wasn't happy about those! I don't destroy anything yet but I have plans! Mommy tried teaching me to "sit" and then I'd get a treat. I did it a few times and she cheered. I'm the life of the party! It was a great week at my house!

New puppy pics

2009-12-27T10:29:00.001-08:00

2009-12-23T08:01:00.001-08:00

I've gained 2 lbs, 2 ozs in a week! At this rate, I'll be 104 lbs by my first birthday! I better keep exercising with my sister. I hear jogging is a great way to keep your weight under control. I'm training with my sister so that when I get a little bigger, I can run with my daddy. He goes a little faster so I have to be in tip top shape in order to avoid being kicked in the head with his long legs. Right now, when we go for a jog, I just end up chasing the smaller kids. I'm getting faster every day and I look awfully cute as I run...as I do anything really. I'm just adorable! That's why I get away with pooping in the house!

"I'm a lucky dog!"

2009-12-22T07:30:00.000-08:00

I really enjoy my new family. They have so many different people that I can beg for attention from that I never get bored. We've been to the park several times. They sure can run fast! I get wiped out quickly because my short little legs have to go twice as fast as them. I still am pooping in the house. I like to do it next to the vacuum cleaner. I never knew Sprinkle's old lady food could taste so good too! I prefer it over my own. Mommy started spraying me with a water bottle when I do it though. Ha! Joke's on her! I like water! I keep getting my head stuck under the fence. Daddy is gonna have to fix it because I'm afraid that I will not grow fast enough and I keep doing it. Mommy is taking me to the vet finally next week. They told her that I may have to have my immunizations all over again because the vet's office doesn't recognize the shots given by a feed store because they don't keep the vaccines at the right temperatures. I am sleeping good in my crate. I have had to get up a few nights to go out. I like to wake up for the day at 6am. In a few days, Mommy has to go back to work and I'll have to spend the whole day in the crate. Mommy said she is worried about it. Overall, I'm a very happy girl. I am loved, fed, and played with. What more could a puppy ask for? Mommy said that a good lab is a tired lab. By the end of the day, I am exhausted!

Here's what I researched on being a Dudley

2009-12-20T08:35:00.000-08:00

The distinct yellows of Labrador retrievers
The coats of Labrador dogs have two distinct yellows. They differ in the genetic combination of colour or what is called as genotypes.

If a yellow Labrador retriever has a bloodline of one or two genes that are programmed for a black hue, then that dog will most likely have black pigments that can vary in intensity.

On the other hand, those yellow Labs which have a lineage of genes that are encoded for chocolate colours then most likely that dog will have a chocolate or liver pigment which is also known as Dudley.

These labs vary in colour, such as light flesh, light yellow, dark yellow, dark brown and even red.

These combinations depend on the breeding and on the parents' colour.

Take for instance, two Labs bred together. There is a tendency that the offspring is a combination of both liver-pigmented yellow and black pigmented yellow.

Yellow Labs with pinkish nose

Some Labs have pinkish nose, which is commonly referred to some people as snow nose or winter nose. Many of the yellow Labs have dark noses during the summers and would just eventually fade during the winters. This cycle is not totally understood and can been seen in other northern breeds such as Malamutes and Huskies.

To determine if it is just a snow nose or if it is really a Dudley Lab, all you have to do is to check the gum tissue and the eye rims, which should also lack the pigmentation.

Typically this kind of Labrador retriever will also have tan or light pink skin while other Labs have black pigments in these areas. Additionally, a true Dudley has the tendency to sunburn easily, so they should not be exposed too much to the sunlight.

The pigment on the nose of yellow Labs can vary. Some yellow Labs have slight black pigment around the muzzle and eyes. Some have pigmented nose that begins to fade as puppies (usually around 2 years of age) and will eventually become black again until they are 8 years old and above.

Other people's definition of a Dudley Lab

Many say that this kind of Labrador retriever has a yellow liver pigment. In a Labrador retriever book I have read, the nose of one of these dogs is defined as flesh coloured. Another source defines them as pink and according to this same source, a yellow lab with light or dark chocolate pigment is not a Dudley.

As for the American Kennel Club standards, Dudley Labs are those with thoroughly pink nose and lacks any pigment.

Lack of pigments in these yellow Lab dogs doesn't mean that they can't be a beloved pet. They can still make wonderful companions and lifelong members of the family.

Sunday Morning excitement

2009-12-20T08:26:00.000-08:00

Today has been a big day for me already. Granny, or Sprinkles, got out the front door and I watched as she attacked our neighbors dog. My dad had to lift her off the poor little thing. She flipped the other dog onto it's back and pinned her down. She was NOT happy! Guess she thought she was getting ANOTHER pest like me coming to our house. I should count my blessings that she hasn't done that to me yet. Then, when I was in the backyard, I got my head stuck under the fence. My sister started tearing up and Braden got my daddy, who had to come pull me out. Good thing I'll grow fast so that won't happen again. I was just trying to get into the front yard to play basketball with my brothers. I've had a few more accidents in the house than my mommy would like the last few days. My sister is good about cleaning up after me. I'll learn soon, I promise. Labby's are smart. I learned yesterday I am a rare kind of lab called a Dudley. Our kind lacks pigment in our eyes and noses, making us green eyed with light brown noses. Guess I'm special. But I already knew that.

Cool little detail

2009-12-18T14:22:00.000-08:00

My mommy calculated my birthday wrong. I wasn't born on Oct. 8th, I was born on Oct. 7th. My mommy says that is a very special day because her cousin was born on that day. She says I am a sign from God that I belonged to this family. When my mommy told my sister, Jaelyn, they decided that my big name is now Bella Kimberly Sheldon. Which translates to Beautiful Ruler. I like that!

My first trip to the park

2009-12-18T14:13:00.000-08:00

This is my "oh crap!" face!

This is my "I'm a happy dog" face! (I just got done running a 1/2 mile around the track)

Praying Evan doesn't fall on me

Wondering what is about to happen

A great day at the park with my favorite people

My buddy, my buddy. Wherever he goes, I go!

Following Jaelyn while walking around the school's track

Some more photos...I never get sick of looking at myself!

2009-12-18T10:53:00.000-08:00

Here's me in front of the tree for my first Christmas. Next year, I'll be WAY bigger.

Here's me with the hairy one. Her name is Sprinkles. I guess I better start calling her that. She is older than me and I have to respect her, or so they say. Today, she actually played with me. We chased each other around the living room at 7am.

Another good night

2009-12-18T04:40:00.000-08:00

Sleeping in my crate. Do I look comfy or what?

This is the pillow my mommy bought me. It's so big, I can't even move. Mommy ended up giving it to the hairy one.

My brother Braden. He's not a comfortable holding me just yet. He says I scratch him.

Here is my big brother Avery holding me.

I love to chew! And I love my toys. I make it a game to see how many I can collect and hide in my special spot next to the couch.

I had a big day yesterday. My first full day with my new family went good. I played alot, took lots of naps, and ate alot. I'm pretty sure the hairy one isn't fond of me though. She growls at me when I want to play "chew the other's dog's tail". I cried just for a minute at bedtime when daddy put me in the crate and shut the door. I was really tired though and fell asleep fast, sleeping for 8 hrs without a peep. Daddy woke up and let me out this morning before he went to the gym. Since I wasn't really tired anymore, I got mommy up to play. I decided to be a crazy puppy monster. Now my humans are waking up and I'm playing with them. I like to eat my sister's hair and play ball with my diapered friend. The hairy one is chasing me around the house and trying to tell me she's in charge around here. Doesn't she know, I'll get bigger than her in a month! Stupid dog! But I'm sure having fun teasing that old grandma. I play hard for an hour in the morning, then rest. Eat, poop, sleep. Play hard again when my humans get home from school. Eat, poop, sleep some more. Play hard before bedtime. Mommy tries to wear me out before bed since I have to go in the crate all night. So far, I haven't destroyed anything and have only had a few accidents in the house. I'm doing great pottying outside. I even met some of the neighbor kids yesterday. Time for breakfast! Gotta run.

I have a family!

2009-12-17T07:46:00.000-08:00

Hi, my name is Bella and I'm a 10 week old lab. (My first name was Libby but for some reason, they call me Bella now. Guess I don't look like a Libby.) I was born in Dayton, Texas and lived with a really nice family until last night. I had 9 brothers and sisters. Someone was always eating the last of the food and messing with me when I was trying to nap. But last night, my Dayton family came home from work and gave my sister and I a bath and then took us to the grocery store parking lot where I was picked to go live with another family. My new mom fell in love with me right away and I moved to some town named Atascocita. When I got to my new home, my new daddy came out to the car to meet me while my new mommy told their human kids about a special gift. I think she was talking about me. All of a sudden, the short humans ran outside to greet me. The one with the long blonde hair was screaming and was very giddy! I guess she liked me! The 5 year old started to cry because he wanted to open a gift from under the tree. The oldest boy was in shock and the baby was trying to kiss me. One of the kids, the hairy black one, kept smelling my butt. So rude! I was very shy and nervous. Everyone kept wanting to hold me like a baby and take my picture. They kept taking me outside and told me to "potty". I didn't know what that meant really but when I peed outside on the grass, they cheer like crazy people. My new mommy made my new daddy put me in a big stocking to take a Christmas picture. She said that they'd look back in a few months and laugh at how small I really was when I arrived here. I had to get a 2nd bath once I got to my new home because I brought some "friends" with me. Mommy said that if the "friends" got on the other hairy one, she'd be upset. I like the blow dryer. It's warm and it gets me dry really fast. I slept in a crate with a nice soft bed and a blanket, next to my mommy's side of the bed. I decided to be a good girl and not whine or cry all night. Mommy got up once and made me go outside to "potty" in the rain. I wasn't very happy about that. But I slept in and my new sister Jaelyn woke me up in the morning when it was time to have breakfast, poop, and get ready for school. I am trying to make friends with the hairy one but she growls at me when I sniff her butt. I'm only trying to see what she had for supper! Gosh! I try to eat her food but mommy says that is for "seniors" and I have my own puppy food. When mommy brings the kids to school or takes a shower, she puts me in the crate with some toys. This way I don't get into trouble. I am teething and like to chew on teething toys. The hairy one steals the bacon flavored bones from me. Meanie! Someday I bet I'll be bigger than her and teach her who is really the boss. My Dayton family used to call me "grandma" because I used to take care of all my brothers and sisters and be protective. I really like my new family so far. They keep me warm, kiss me, hug me, carry me, and read me stories at bedtime. I'm pretty spoiled here. I think I may stay for awhile.

PS. My name is Bella but NOT after any vampire movie. Bella means beautiful and that's just what I am. Blonde, blue eyed, beauty.

Here I am with some of my brothers and my sister. I am the 2nd from the left in the photo.

My new sister Jaelyn reading me a bedtime story. I could get used to this! The book is called "Guess how much I love you?"

Me on my new comfy bed

Me stuffed in a stocking

My new sister Jaelyn. She really likes me!

Here I am with the Santa hat that my Dayton family sent with me. I don't like to wear it. I may try to eat it.

This short human smells like pee. I kept smelling his diaper but my new mommy thought I would take a hint and start to pee too. If I have to potty train, then this one should learn too. Just a thought.