Finally getting back on track

Today is the first day I've felt normal in over 2 weeks. Whatever flu/cold ailment I have is lingering a bit too long, but I will kick it dammit!

It felt great to finally get out and about! With such great weather in the Bay Area, we decided to head over to Ocean Beach -- more specifically Fort Funston. Jango gets a big run and I get to move around outdoors and have a small workout. Here's a little of what it looked like:



It really feels good to be a part of the land of the living again.

Oh hairy days!

Posted this a few days ago on Flickr. If you have a pet, then you most certainly understand what's happening here. Thing is, Jango is not done yet.

We don't want our girl looking ratty and matty, so Tom diligently uses that instrument to de-shed her at the park. I take care of the nails and teeth.

Ah, she's totally worth it :)

Road to the Doghouse

UPDATE: It'll either be a Labradoodle or Portuguese Water Dog. Obama told George Stephanopolis.

I love dogs and I love Anderson Cooper. Plus, I'm slightly obsessed with who will be crowned the next First Dog. This segment has it all. Thank you Daily Show!

Posted via email from bigepaz is eileen

The Chuck-It

The Obamas will rescue the new First Dog soon...

...and Barney is grumpy about that.



Looks to me like he's a little grumpy about his pending move! Many thanks to @engnr_chik for this video.

But seriously, I'm thrilled to hear that the Obamas plan to adopt their first dog. Upon further reading it's not quite clear if they will adopt from a shelter, but i'm crossing my fingers. Of course rescue dogs are near and dear to my heart since adopting Jango over 4 years ago!

I tend to be preachy about the millions of dogs in shelters that need a homes, but it's just a fact that cannot be ignored. Pet overpopulation is a serious problem. Just glance at the "Pets" section on craigslist and you'll see plenty of URGENT listings from shelters.

Please think about your lifestyle before adopting a dog. Think realistically about the time you have to devote to a four-legged family member. Do your research and don't get a puppy just because they are cute. Puppies take a lot of hard work to raise and need you to be their leader. Lots of dogs in shelters that are 1-3 yrs old will not only lead long healthy lives, but are housebroken!

Please consider shelter animals before you go to a breeder. Please.

E

PS - I think the puppy cam is cute, but I'll be less enthused if these dogs come from a breeder.

PPS - If you only want to go the pure-breed route, then read @engnr_chik's comments below. She makes good points on what to consider.

PPPS - this afternoon Barack Obama addressed the puppy issue at his first press conference post-election. How timely was this post?

Posted by email from bigepaz is eileen (posterous)