Canine Capers

I live in a small house in NE Portland with three dogs and two cats. (I lost three cats this year, but more about that later) My dogs names are Daphne, a German Shepherd, Bassett hound mix who is 13 years this June. Spot, is a Brittany Spaniel, that was found abandoned at Laurelhurst Park. He is 12. And Stormy is a golden lab/rott/pit bull mix? She is 11 and I found her abandoned on the street during the great windstorm of December 12, 1995. Managing so many animals in a small house is not easy but it has gotten easier now that they are not all young pups with lots of left over energy at the end of the day. I would say that they have all settled down into a nice comfortable routine and seem to all have an understanding of their place in the universe. I feel very lucky that I am able to provide for them. In that, we have a cozy little home, with a back yard. We go for walks and special adventures. They have each other for company while I am at work. A friend of mine pointed out the other day, that some of the sweetest moments she had with her dogs are when they are older. And I guess that is what I am understanding. We can't go for really long walks anymore. Even Spot, who used to be able to run around for hours without tiring, gets tired fairly quickly now. But their enthusiasm never dies. They are always excited about any adventure and never fade in their happiness to see me every day. Their affection never wanes. Just this past Sunday, we had some warm sunny weather and I decided to do some yard clean up. All the dogs were outside, sniffing around. Checking for cats, squirrels and rats. Spotty was digging his usual hole into the stinky mess beneath the bird feeder. Stormy was lying down on the stinky mess in the sunshine. Her eyes were closed and her nose was quivering in the air. She was smelling the Spring coming. I just know that she felt something stirring in the air. I could sense the contentment she felt in being out of doors. She felt safe and part of a family. I particularly relish these moments with Stormy for I always think back to the first year of her life, when she was owned by people who just had no business owning a dog. She was kept outside all the time. They bred her within the first year of her life and sold the puppies. Probably for potential dog fights. She not only suffered the weather but lack of socialization and was victim to attack from other dogs. When I found her she was nothing but skin and bones. Like some Biafran dog. Her ribs and back bone sticking out. Cuts and bites all over her body. A chain was around her neck padlocked to her collar. She had been so abused and neglected that she didn't trust anyone. So when I see her so happy now, it makes it all the more special. I know that she trusts me completely and that when she is with me and her sister and brother, she is with family. This means more to me than anything.

Wonder Tea at the Gordon House

Last Saturday I was invited to a special "Wonder Tea" in the Gordon House of the Oregon Garden in Silverton. Molly Murphy is in charge of these "wonderful" themed events and is supported by a warm and knowledgable staff of volunteers. They made the day very special for all of us who attended. The delicious "high tea" catered by the Oregon Tea Garden of downtown Silverton. We were served fresh scones with dog bone shaped tops and for dessert we had homemade hazelnut shortbread cookies shaped like dog biscuits. We were entertained with on the accordian by Dick Moles of Silverton and this years "Bobbie-look-alike" winner, Sweetheart. I am not sure all of those who attended are dog lovers, but Sweetheart, well, she stole our hearts. Later we all were treated to a fascinating tour of the Gordon House by the friendly volunteers. This was a wonderful experience that I hope everyone who reads this may have the chance to enjoy. It is gracious way to spend a foggy winter day in the garden. I have to mention that in addition to the just regular folk like me, we had a group from the "Red Hat Society" at one table celebrating a members birthday. They were a joy to watch in their colorful outfits and hats. I admire their spirit of fun. It was also a colorful addition to the garden as they walked around in their red hats. The garden is still in its winter mode, but they looked like big red poppies walking around. Thanks to the staff and volunteers of the Gordon House for the hospitality.

Kimball in the City - Oregon Public Broadcasting

On Friday, April 1, 2005, I had the opportunity of being interviewed by Ellen Kimball of "Kimball in the City" on the Golden Hours program on Oregon Public Broadcasting. It was an interesting half hour program that aired on Monday April 4th at 1pm. Ms. Kimball was a great host and between the two of us there wasn't any dead air. Besides discussing the book, we shared our love of dog books in general and personal stories of our own dogs. Ms. Kimball has a rich and interesting background in broadcasting. She has been in Oregon only 7 years and spent much of her earlier career on the East coast. One could describe her as a pioneer in the field and I am sure she has many stories to tell about those difficult years when a woman in broadcasting was about as rare as a penguin in the Gobi. I truly appreciated the opportunity she gave me by interviewing me on her show. She was a gracious host and a delightful character as well. She does a great service to the community by introducing writers and others who might not ordinarily get the exposure on other radio venues. Thanks Ms. Kimball!

Third Street Books

On Saturday, April 2, I was invited to Third Street Books for a book signing in the afternoon. This was my first time at this lovely book store. The folks were most gracious and they have a wonderful selection of books in a bright and cheerful atmosphere. I was not a big draw to say the least. In fact, I was upstaged by Clifford the Big Red Dog. One family came in expecting to see Clifford and when he wasn't there, turned around and left. However, a few people came by to have me autograph their book and learn a little more about Bobbie. While I wasn't exactly as "big" as Clifford, I appreciated being invited and to have my book featured so nicely in the bookshop. Besides the store was able to raise some money from the sales over the weekend to make a donation to the Homeward Bound Shelter. Which was the point to begin with. Thanks to all of the staff at Third Street Books.

DOGS AND DOGWOODS

On June 18, 2005, the Oregon Garden in Silverton, Oregon sponsored a special event called "Dogs and Dogwoods". It was an entire day dedicated to those who love gardens and dogs. The Humane Society of the Willamette Valley and Dove Lewis Emergency Animal Hospital were on hand to offer information on their services to animals and their owners. In addition, a number of canine authors were invited to sign books with part of the proceeds benefiting the Oregon Garden. It was a lovely day in this dog-friendly garden. Not only do they allow people-friendly dogs on leash in the garden but there is a special pet garden as well. It has also been one year since the dedication of the bronze bust of Bobbie the Wonder Dog that was installed in the garden. Judith Kent, the author of "Silverton's Bobbie", a charming pictorial history of Bobbie, was responsible for the fund raising and installation of the sculpture. Thanks to Ted of BeautifulAmerica Publishing for bringing together Oregon canine authors. I personally welcome any opportunity to meet other animal lovers as well as participating in a worth while event. I encourage everyone to take the time with their favorite companions and explore the beautiful Oregon Garden.