Happy 4th!

I hope everyone had a Happy Independence Day. We had a lovely weekend. On Friday we saw Up which was very sweet, and had a funny dog angle to it.
Neat sidenote: my talented cousin Josh Thompson is the voice of three of the dogs in Up the video game!

Saturday we didn't really plan out. At the last minute we grabbed a cooler and some chairs and went down to the banks of the Potomac to watch the fireworks. They were quite spectacular. Swiffer came with us and Cheetah stayed home. Swiffer was convinced we were under attack, despite the Rescue Remedy and DAP spray - they did nothing. She was very focused on getting us back to the car once the noises started. I held on tightly to her and her leash, knowing that July 4 is the day with the highest ratings of canine escapees all year. She eventually gave up and just sat next to me while we watched the fireworks. But she was VERY relieved when we got back in the car! She did have fun while we were there before the sun went down. Cheetah seemed unperturbed when we got home. I left her CD on low and a loud fan in the bedroom, in case she needed to find a place to drown out the noise. She wasn't anxious to be more than 2 inches away from me when we went outside, but other than that she was pretty unphased back at the house.

Sunday we did our usual family gathering (all of Mr. Pell-Mel's immediate family lives in the immediate vicinity). So I got to hang out with my niece and nephews, who are RIDICULOUSLY cute, and most of my in-laws, who I enjoy quite a bit, contrary to popular stereotypes. :-)

I would post pictures of the ridiculously cute kids, but I don't think their parents would appreciate that since this is a public/searchable blog, so I refrain from doing so. You'll just have to take my word for it.

Mocha 7.6.09

I heard from Brian last night that he found a marble-sized lump on Mocha's right hip. It is not causing her pain but he is obviously concerned about it. She has a vet appointment for tomorrow (Tuesday). I will keep you posted. Let's all hope it is nothing.

Poppy 7.2.09 blog update

Poppy in Washingtonian Magazine - August issue

Schroeder update 7.2.09

Schroeder had his last round of shots today. He also got a microchip. Schroeder still has loose poop. The vet tested his poop and said he has bacteria I guess too much. He put him on an antibiotic that is for the intestines and will knock out some of the bacteria. He is also taking something that will help him with the good bacteria it is called Fortiflora. He feels that his immune system is trying to balance its self out. He seems to feel fine - crazy as always. The vet seems to think he has a lot of growing to do, but I am not sure how much bigger he will get. Have a good fourth of July.

What would your dog say

Working with the rescue, I see a ton of placement ads all the time. You know, "high energy dog, loves to play, good with other dogs and kids, no cats please." That kind of thing.

Ever wonder what your dog would say about you? I think mine would say:

Low energy female, very loving and cuddly when she manages to get off the couch (or let you on it). Mostly enjoys being indoors but will take you out if you show the desire. Not very social with other humans (sometimes exhibits random aggression) but good with most animals. Decent leadership qualities, likable, but often needs encouragement to play and have fun. Likes to feel needed. Can tug on leash when frustrated, but good leash manners overall. Less confusing than many humans regarding what she wants, but could use a little work. Will occassionally prepare food and forget to put it on the floor. Really good at scratching.