I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year's Eve, but I'm not sure it's such a good thing...

Yet another holiday is now upon me and again I've no idea what's going on. Smudgie is his usual unhelpful self. He says that tonight we all stay up really late, and hug and kiss at midnight, but he won't explain it any further, and it makes no sense to me. I don't know why anyone would hug and kiss at midnight. Around here, I get hugs and kisses all the time.

But he says that tomorrow is a whole different year. Everything is going to change.

I'm a little concerned. This cannot be a good thing.

I LIKE this year. This is the year that I got to fly on a plane. I got to meet snow. I found a Mommy, a Daddy, and a (semi-mean) brother to love. I got a new house, and learned what stairs are.

I learned all about where to pee and where not to pee. I escaped alligators forever, got my unpleasant bum issues under control, found someone to trim my nails and take care of my fur, discovered the art of the pack nap, got toys of my very own (sorry about ripping them all to shreds), and tried all sorts of new foods. I discovered tummy rubs, bum scratches, snowball fights, ice cubes, carrots, and that whipped cream is tasty, especially when someone you love squirts it in your mouth.

I learned that it's okay to bark at the mailman...in fact, it's important to do so. He tries to invade your home about five times a week. I've fought him off successfully each time, by the way. I've learned that other dogs are not for biting (and I hope that one day I'll remember that all the time). I've learned that socks are not for eating (a really hard one to remember), and I've learned that a family is someone who rushes you to the emergency room and finds someone to save your life when you do forget the sock rule. I've also learned that a family may grumble about the bill that comes with the operation, but that they'll pay it and just be beyond thankful that you're okay.

This year I've learned that when I go outside (yep, that's the place) for a pee or a poo, Mommy or Daddy might close the door after me, but they will always be waiting there to open it when I return. And that as much as wearing a basket muzzle sucks, it really is to avoid very expensive and painful emergency surgeries again.

I've met all sorts of amazing people who care about little old me this year. I've got my family that I live with, of course, but I also have two full sets of grandparents who think I'm awesome. My Auntie Brighit and my Cousins Vienna and Jzero are amazing. They play with me, and laugh at me when I'm goofy. I have dog friends on the street here too (sorry about the growling...) and neighbour friends who actually like me. I even have a whole team of friends who care about me at the vet...and Mommy says that next time I want to spend time with those friends, just ask. She says we can visit anytime. A surgery is NOT required to go there.

I know that when Smudgie needs medicine that Mommy always pretends to give me some too, just so I feel loved. I've learned to sit when I'm told, and not to jump on people as much. I now have a microchip (whatever that means) and THREE different tags on my collar (did you hear that? MY collar). All three tags mean I belong somewhere...with someone. Yep, I BELONG!

And this was the year I learned to roller blade. There is nothing in this world better than that.

Until I got here I never knew how to blog. I didn't have any virtual friends, but now I do. My oes.org buddies are absolutely the best people on the planet. This has been an amazing year. I don't want to see it end.

What if this new year thing brings changes? What if I don't like the changes? What if it all ends? I am worried. Maybe someone should do something about this. If we all just refuse to participate maybe then we can all enjoy this year forever.

So, take care all, and be sure to resist. Let's stay firmly planted in 2010. Fight the New Year! Fight the New Year! Let's let tomorrow be January 1, 2010B. That has to be a better option. And if that Baby New Year guy shows up around here I'll bite him. You guys do the same at your houses, ok?

Rudy, the chronological warrior

What is Smudgie's problem?

Yesterday Mommy and Daddy tried to do a little bum trimming on Hudson. He acted like they were removing his paws with a chain saw. What a baby!

I waited patiently, and sat nicely. I was hoping...hoping...hoping...that there would be a turn for me. And THERE WAS!

My Mommy and Daddy love me enough to trim the hair in front of my eyes. I sat really still, except for my flicking tail. I was so happy. Then, I laid down to enjoy the rest.

Daddy used the clippers to remove the hair between my paw pads. He said it would help with snowballs. I don't mind snowballs, because whenever we come back from walks Mommy's waiting with a bowl of warm water that melts them right away and feels really good on my feeties. I held each paw out for Daddy while he trimmed them all.

Then he did a bit of trimming on my bum. It wasn't horrible. I used to be afraid of anyone touching my bum, but that was when it was really sore. Dr. Skakun used to stick her fingers in there to try to help, but it hurt. Then she put medicine in. Yuck. But you know what? It helped.

So, anyway, my bum is nicely trimmed, and then Daddy cleaned up my tummy (he says if we keep it short it won't get matted). Then we moved downstairs and Mommy did the bum thing. I didn't really like it, but that medicine from before really did help, so it doesn't hurt anymore. It's not very dignified, but it feels better once it's done.

So, why doesn't Smudgie understand how lucky he is to have someone love him? I sure get it. When I was living by myself on the streets in Florida, I would have given anything to have someone brush me, or fix my sore bum problem. Now that I'm here I know exactly what it means when someone grooms me.

It means someone loves me.

And I'm good with that!

So, suck it up Smudgie. I didn't see you give anyone thank you kisses last night. I did. Even after Mommy squeezed my bum, I thanked her. Because that, my dear brother, is love.

Take care all, and appreciate the finer things in life, like those who love you, even when you fuss.

Dapper Rudy

I don't get this...

Mommy was really happy to get these little card thingies as Christmas presents. I didn't get it...you can't eat them or play with them, although I do suspect I could chew one up in three minutes flat...anyway...

Today she went out (without us) and took two of these silly little cards and when she came back she had traded them for this big bag of clothes. (I still don't get the appeal...why doesn't she just grow out her fur like me?)

She giggled and showed Daddy all the stuff (he didn't even really look) and talked about Boxing Day sales and such. I felt so bad for her that I sat down right in front and I looked carefully at every single piece. I sniffed them all, and even batted one with my paw. It seemed to make her happy. She says she'll always show me her new clothes from now on. (I just don't know if that's a good thing or not.) When I got up and tried to rub up against her new jeans, however, she pulled away and made a not so nice remark about dog fur. Hmmmmm...I should think she'd be happy I'm willing to share my dog fur with her at all. It's really nice and soft and it's getting long.

Anyway, I must investigate these card thingies further. Is it possible to get one that can be traded for kibble? Or toys? Or that thing called Prime Rib that I often hear whispered about in this house, yet it remains completely elusive?

I guess I'll have to google this gift card thing! In the meantime, if anyone knows where I should go to obtain some, please let me know!

Take care all,

Rudy, who is currently cardless

So it seems Smudgie didn't lie!

Santa came here after all! Yay!

He brought us toys and treats and treats and treats, and oh yeah...treats. Wow.

I don't understand how he got into the house without us waking up. We are ferocious guard dogs, who never ever let anything slip by, so I am a little surprised and uncomfortable about it all, but he brought great stuff, so I think I'll get over it.

He brought me this chewy toy made from recycled tires. I loved it. Mommy said the label said it was indestructible. Well, I scored a personal best on that one...four minutes was all it took me to chomp off a hunk...and then the uprights jumped up and took it away from me. What was that all about?

When Mommy and Daddy gave us a present to unwrap together, I think I forgot the true meaning of Christmas. I growled at Smudgie (I was so excited that I wanted the present all for myself). Mommy scolded me, and Smudgie ran off and TOOK my new ring for himself. I've been told. I'll try to do better. When I went to take my ring back, he GROWLED AT ME. So I sat down. Then he stared at me. So I laid down. Once I did that, he was okay with me again. I guess he really made things clear for me there. I'm sorry Smudgie. I just got a little carried away.

Mommy and Daddy made brunch for Grandma and Grandpa, and we all had a great morning. Then Mommy went away for a while, but we got to snooze with Daddy, so it was all good.

I've decided I'm definitely on board with this Christmas stuff. The toys are great. The treats are awesome (and Smudgie, with his little princess type tummy only threw up the one time)...

So, Merry Christmas to you all! I highly recommend it!

Take care all, and ho ho ho.

Rudy, Santa's little helper

Dear Santa,

Hi there. It's me, Rudy. I'm not really clear on this whole Christmas thing, but Smudgie said that you're a very nice man, in a big red suit, who comes on Christmas Eve and brings us presents. Smudgie lies to me a lot, so if this is another one of his pranks I'll be pretty unhappy with him...but just in case, I thought I'd cover all my bases.

Smudgie also says that when you come down the chimney (Who knew the chimney wasn't properly secured in this house???? Has anyone told Mommy and Daddy about this????) I should remember not to bite you. I don't think I'd want to bite you...I hear you're really nice...but I'm glad Smudgie warned me, just in case.

He says that we can ask you for presents. He says his list is really really long and that he's already sent it to you in triplicate (whatever that is). If that's the case, I don't really need anything. Whatever you bring Hudson will be just fine with me. I always take his stuff away anyhow. It makes up for when he falls asleep on top of me and then growls at me if I move.

So anyway Santa, I just wanted to let you know that I'm not asking for anything for Christmas this year. I don't want to be greedy you see. Way back in January of this year I got the one present I'd been dreaming about my whole life...I got a family. And it's a pretty nice one if I do say so myself. My Mommy loves me soooooo much, and so does Daddy. Mommy cooks yummy food and sometimes lets me have a taste. She always tells me what it is before I eat it, and it's always good. Daddy takes us for walks in the snow and rollerblading in the summer. He's the best Daddy ever! I also have a big (little) brother. I had no idea that being part of a pack family would be so great.

I get to sleep on the bed, and have chewy rings to get my crazies out...and when I eat silly things, like socks, I have an awesome veterinary team to cut me right open and take them back out. (Note to self: Don't do that anymore...it scares Mommy and Daddy.)

So Santa, I just wanted to say hi, and tell you that I'm really really happy now, and I don't need anything at all for Christmas. I know that I didn't get my family until January of this year, but Mommy tells me that she and Daddy met a rescue puppy named Spock on Christmas Eve, and that he was their inspiration for starting their search for me.

And, since it took place on Christmas Eve, that probably means you had something to do with it, so thank you very much for that. I sincerely mean it. And don't worry about presents in the future. I'm very happy with the family I've already got, and can't imagine ever needing anything else.

Take care all, and especially you Santa!

Jingle Rudy

P.S. If you're stopping by to drop off stuff for Smudgie anyway, he really likes those Nylabone rings....so if you happened to add one to his list, and it isn't too much trouble....well, um....you know...

Is it true?

Smudgie says that soon Mommy will be on holidays for Christmas. He says that she'll be home with us for two whole weeks. He says she'll ruin our napping schedule.

Is it true?

Two whole weeks with Mommy?

How awesome is that!

Maybe she'll enjoy it so much that she'll stay home forever.

Paws crossed.

Take care all.

Rudy, the Optimist

I want to sincerely apologize to my family.

Last week Auntie Brighit, and my cousins Vienna and Jzero gave Smudgie and me some wonderful Solstice presents. One was a duck with a big black tail that can fly really far, and the other is a tugging stick with tennis ball in the middle.

I loved them both. I really really loved them both. (Even though only one was, technically, for me and the other was for Smudgie.)

Anyway, I loved them so much that I've torn them both to shreds. Smudgie says that's not how it's supposed to work, but I was just so excited. The duck's tail was the first to go. Sorry Mr. Quackers.

Later I shredded the tennis ball part of the tugging stick. The green part looked really tasty, and I thought it might be lime flavoured (it wasn't). So, I had to give it a taste.

I really, really want to thank them for their wonderful gifts, and apologize for loving them so much that they are in pieces. Mommy cut off the remaining pieces of the duck's tail (ouch) and hopefully I'll control myself better from now on.

Take care all,

Rudy, the appreciative toy terminator

I sure haven't been doing a good job on this blog lately.

There's so much going on around here. I don't know where to start. The "not for peeing on" tree is all glittery and sparkly, and it's lit up all the time. Now there are lots of presents underneath it. It's really cool.

The ones that smell really good (and I've only sniffed, not torn into, honest), are the ones that Smudgie says are for US! He says that presents are things that people who love you get and give to you and then you get to keep them forever. I think this is a neat idea, and that we should do the present thing more often.

There's even a present for Daddy under the tree that says, "Love, Hudson and Rudy." I don't remember going shopping for it, but Smudgie says we went with Mommy. I guess I'll have to take his word for that...or maybe he said that HE went shopping with Mommy, in which case I think my feelings are really hurt...oh well...as long as there are presents it's all good.

Mommy's been out really late almost every single night this week. She says that's what happens when you're a teacher. I think she should stay home more, and teach ME things instead...like how not to pee in the house. I'm down to once a month or so, which I think is pretty close, but Daddy says, "Close only counts in horseshoes or hand grenades." I don't get that either...but he thinks he's funny.

Apparently Grandma and Grandpa will be coming for breakfast on Christmas Morning. I'm not really sure what that means, but I am prepared to share my kibble with them, if necessary. I'm a pretty generous dog, and besides, I can always steal Smudgie's if I don't have enough.

Well, I should end this now...I heard Daddy say the words "dog" and "walk" in the same sentence. This could be important.

Take care all,

And to all a good night...

Rudy, the red nosed snowdog

I guess it's been a while...

Sorry I haven't been posting lately. Things have been really busy here. That pretend, but not for peeing on it tree, is still up, and these strange looking boxes and bags keep appearing underneath. But, none of them appear to be for me. And I know. I keep checking.

Every time I check (or Smudgie does) Mommy or Daddy keep yelling, "Leave it!" So, I'm guessing that's what the pretend, but not for peeing on it tree is really called. It's a "leave it!"

So, I think the "leave it" is really pretty and all, but how unfair is it that there's nothing for us underneath? Some of those boxes smell really pretty, and I think that if it smells good (or particularly bad) you should eat it.

Sigh.

I continue to be baffled by some of the strange customs around me. I'll have to keep investigating things. And I'll be sure to update you all on what I find out.

Take care all, and leave it!

Inspector Rudy

Welcome to Finnegan.

Mommy and Daddy just told me that I have a new baby cousin. His name is Finnegan, and he's just a baby...eight weeks old. She also tells me that with my bad attitude toward others I'll never get to meet him. That seems unfair, but I'll have to keep working on my attitude I guess...or maybe hers.

Anyway, I saw his picture (and didn't even growl at it by the way) and he really is a cutie. And what a lucky dog he is...he gets to live with Auntie Brighit, Cousin Vienna, and Cousin Jzero. They are three of my all time most favourite people...and he gets his own family for Christmas. I'm sure enjoying my Christmas season this year...so far anyway...I just don't understand why everyone gets so nervous when I dig around in the presents. I don't even really know what presents are, so how can I possibly be doing it wrong?

Anyway, welcome to the family little Finnegan. Even though they won't let me see you, please know that I already love you (and so does your Cousin Smudgie).

There's nothing like a family for Christmas!

Take care all, especially little Finnegan.

Big Cousin Rudy

I am NOT a doofus!

Mommy called me a doofus, and I just don't see how this could possibly be fair.

The other day Daddy was home really late and Mommy had to stay and have parent meetings at school, so I was in my crate a LONG time. I had an "accident." It wasn't my fault. It was theirs, but that isn't the doofus part.

When Daddy got home I needed a bath, and my kennel needed cleaning, and he did a pretty good job of both. Smudgie was mad that only I got to do downstairs, and I could hear him fussing. But, when I came up all wet, Smudgie figured out what the missed and ran away. Daddy couldn't even find him after that. Hee hee. It was funny.

So, then it was time to pick up Mommy. The truck was nice and toasty warm, and when we got there he took us inside the building, but we didn't find Mommy. When we finally headed back to the truck she was in there (magic I guess). I got to drink out of the water fountain at the school. It was just my size. Nice.

We came home, and our glorious snow is up to Smudgie's shoulders. Now, he's a shrimp, so for me it's just my ankles.

We came inside and snuggled for a while at the TV, and then we had dinner and went out for our pees. (Here comes the doofus part.)

I was still pretty wet, and it was pretty cold out, but I wanted to play in the snow, so I was mucking about (as Mommy always says) on the deck when I realized I was FREEZING.

I didn't know what else to do, so I curled up and laid down in the snow, waiting for death to take me. It was over. My new life and family began to fade.

Then, a miracle happened! My Mommy (who had been watching me from the door, and had been calling me in but I wouldn't listen), ran out (barefoot - she's awesome!) and grabbed me and dragged me into the warm house.

She put a blanket around me and hugged me and I warmed up really quickly! I was saved! I was saved!

As I was showing my gratitude with an enthusiastic face licking, she said, "Rudy, you doofus, when you feel cold you're supposed to come inside. The door wasn't even closed."

Frankly, I think the name calling was completely uncalled for. How was I to know enough to come in out of the cold?

Sheesh!

Take care all, and stay dry this winter...it could save your life.

Rudy Frost

I think they might have been trying to kill us both!

Yesterday Mommy and Daddy tried to make me wear pretend antlers and sit nicely by the Christmas Tree (you know, the sparkly fake tree you're NOT allowed to pee on) in the living room. Then they kept pointing this device at us that looked like a camera, but who really knows for sure?

So, even though they tried and tried and tried, I managed to escape time after time. Someone must have been lurking in the background, with a real camera, as this is what I looked like:

I heard something about a Christmas Card and all that, but I didn't see one, so I made sure to never, ever stand still. I don't think it was my real Mommy and Daddy with the fake camera/weapon of doom, but rather some aliens from outer space, up to no good. The good news is that the aliens returned my Mommy and Daddy shortly after, but I do pledge to NEVER sit still when a "camera" is pointed at me. I will survive!

Trust no one and take care all!

Major Rudy

The snow is back!

Mommy is complaining a LOT. She says that the big snowstorm made the roads horrible and that Daddy should drive her everywhere. Daddy does not agree.

I try to stay out of their differences of opinion. I just think we should all WALK...everywhere...all day long.

Snow, glorious snow! Oh, how I've missed you.

When Mommy came home from work (what exactly is that anyway?) she took me and Smudgie out in the backyard without any stupid muzzles, and we romped and pounced and played in the snow. I ate so much snow I was worried there wouldn't be any left for anyone else, but turns out, it just keeps on coming down.

I'm soooooooo happy. Bring it on!

Take care all, and I wish you lots and lots of snow.

Rudy Snowflake

There's a snowfall warning in effect.

Mommy and Daddy are unhappy, but this must mean good things for sheepies, right?

Keep your fingers crossed for us...this could be good.

Rudy, who's in Snow Business.

Don't Tell My Daddy

Smudgie fussed to go out just now...it's just after midnight here. Daddy took us out and fed us breakfast (well, fed me breakfast, Smudgie wasn't back in yet).

Mommy came down, and informed Daddy that it was the middle of the night. They argued for a bit, and then she showed him a clock. She stormed out to get Smudgie (I felt sorry for him) and he RAN into the house, right past his bowl.

So, once Daddy figured out what time it was they took Smudgie's bowl away....and now HE'S mad that I got an extra meal (third dinner as I like to call it) and he got nothing.

I knew it wasn't breakfast time yet, but I didn't want to hurt Daddy's feelings. I had to take one for the team.

I won't repeat what Daddy said when Mommy explained what time it was to him, but I really don't think any of those words were really called for. I sure hope I still get breakfast tomorrow.

What an odd night. I hope I get third dinner every night from now on. Thanks Daddy, and sorry Hudson!

Take care all,

Rudy, the midnight snacker

Good bye Malarki

We're all so sorry you're gone. You were very loved and will be greatly missed.

Love,
Rudy, Smudge, and Family.

Mommy just told me really bad news.

It looks like my cousin Malarki is very sick, and probably won't be okay. Smudgie and I are very, very sad, and just want to send out our love and our hugs to him.

You're a great little guy Malarki.

We all love you.

Rudy and Family

Sigh. Last night didn't go so well.

I tried really hard to be good. But Smudgie and I still ended up in our crates. We did what Daddy said, and sat quietly, but then Grandma would toss us a treat, or Grandpa would call one of us and give pats.

That was exciting, so we came closer, and then we got told to go away. I'm so confused.

So, eventually, Daddy put us in our crates and we missed most of the party. Well, I got to watch from my crate, and the Christmas Tree lights were on, which was pretty and all, but still...

I'm very sorry Uncle Bob and Aunt Gail. I just wanted to give you a little love. Having a family is still new to me, and I was just so excited.

On a positive note, despite being really excited I did NOT pee in the house last night, which, if you knew me from before, is HUGE progress. So Mommy and Daddy said not to be too hard on myself. They still love me lots.

Now....here's the thing that's stressing me out today:

Mommy and Daddy have tickets to go see that Cesar Millan guy IN PERSON. I'm sure he'll say something that they'll decide is important and when they come home life will change dramatically for Smudgie and for me. I may have to give up chewing on the singing snowman ornament in the dining room, and maybe they'll finally get Smudgie to not stand in the kitchen licking the dirty dishes in the sink.

Oh woe is us!

Take care all, and don't listen to men named Cesar. It NEVER ends well.

Rudy, who really tries

Welcome Uncle Bob and Auntie Gail!

I'm going to meet my Uncle Bob and Auntie Gail tonight. They apparently flew in from Ontario just to meet little old me.

This having a family thing is awesome. I never dreamed that I'd just keep meeting more and more and more people I'm related to! Yippeee!

My Daddy says that Auntie Gail doesn't like dogs jumping all over her. (Who doesn't like dogs jumping all over them????? Weird.) I will try to be really good. Rumour has it we're going to the park and later we'll roller blade. Smudgie says that Daddy wants us really tired before the big dinner party tonight. I don't get that, but I will definitely not say no to the plans ahead.

Families are awesome. I'm really loving having a family.

Take care all,

Rudy, a True Family Man

What a weird day.

It started off really well. Everyone slept in and snuggled on the bed. For some strange reason Mommy and Daddy are both home. How cool is that?

So, Smudgie and I snuggled on the couch after with Daddy and watched TV while Mommy did some laundry and plunked away on that silly piano. Then, we all had to stand in silence by the TV at eleven o'clock. It was hard for me. They wouldn't let me wander and no one talked. I heard something about Remembrance Day, but I'm not sure what I'm supposed to remember, so I just tried to be as good a dog as I could.

After it was over, Mommy and Daddy talked quietly for a bit. I think it had something to do with the moment of silence stuff, but I'm not really sure. This is all new to me.

Then Mommy said, "Let the Christmas Season begin!"

Daddy went to the basement and brought up this big, funny smelling, pretend tree. Mommy said that it's not the peeing on kind. (Seriously? What other kinds of trees are there?) They put it together and hung all sorts of coloured lights and ornaments and stuff on it. I stole some of the stuffed animal type things, but Mommy kept saying no. What a meanie!

So now it's taking up one whole corner of the room...but the nice thing is that they set it up right across from my kennel. I can keep an eye on it all day long while I'm imprisoned in there.

But I should get back to my story, because then the sweetest thing happened.

Mommy pulled out a purple sock (she says it's a Christmas stocking, but I know a sock when I see one!) and she hung it on the front of the fireplace. She said it was Smudgie's Christmas Stocking. His very own. I was so sad that HE got one and I didn't.

Then Mommy brought out this beautiful off white sock with green leaves on it (she says they're called holly) and said, "Merry Christmas Rudy. This is your very own Christmas Stocking."

I've never had my very own Christmas Stocking before. I don't even know what they are...but I do know that even I couldn't get that thing all the way into my tummy. Anyway, she and Daddy gave me hugs and pats and then we all went over to the fireplace and there was a little nail on the mantle, and she hung my stocking up there too, right next to Smudgie's.

I have a Christmas Stocking. This must be just one more great thing that comes with having a family. A Christmas Stocking for little old me...and one that kind of matches my collar and everything, too.

Daddy says Mommy's crazy and that it's too soon for this Christmas thing. I don't know about that, but I sure am glad I didn't have to wait any longer for my very own Christmas stocking.

And then, just when I thought this day couldn't get any better....

Big fluffy snowflakes started to fall.

Merry Christmas to all!

Rudy (proud stocking owner)

I want to tell you about my Grandma and Grandpa

Well, first off let me say, I think it's really cool to have a Grandma and Grandpa. In fact, I have two sets! It's awesome here.

Last night my Grandma and Grandpa came over for dinner. I really like them. I'm learning to not jump on them, and I must say that I'm doing much better than Smudgie with that. I'd love to jump all over them, but I know it's important to use my best manners when they're here.

I spent most of the night laying by my Grandpa's feet, watching him. He's so cool, and I'm pretty sure he really likes me. He smiles at me a lot and makes funny faces sometimes. He's neat.

My Grandma is cool too. She wants to feed me from the table, but Mommy (who can be kinda mean when it comes to this stuff) says NO. Keep trying Grandma. Where there's a will there's a way.

Anyway, I just wanted to tell you how much fun I had yesterday with my Grandparents. I wish I hadn't fallen asleep at the end, but I was just so tired. Daddy took me rollerblading in the afternoon, just to tire me out. That wasn't fair, but it was fun, so I'll forgive him.

Well, gotta get back to my nap. That was a BIG day. I sure like my whole family. It still feels neat to say....I have a family!

Take care all,

Rudy, who is someone's Granddog!

IT SNOWED!!! IT SNOWED!!!

OHMYGOODNESSIAMSOHAPPY!ITSNOWED!ITSNOWED!

Okay, I'll have to calm myself a little.

It snowed last night. Not much, and Mommy and Daddy say it'll be gone by tomorrow, but I don't care. It snowed!!!! That means that snow is NOT a one shot deal.

There will be more snow to eat.

More snow to frolic in.

More snow to track in the house.

More snow to roll in.

More snow to dig in.

More snow to hide between my toes and then jump on Daddy when he's warm.

More snow to love.

Yay. Snow. Yay.

Now, here are two snow related (non gleeful) points I must make:

1) There is no joy in snow when you are forced to wear a muzzle outside. I cannot eat snow that way, so Mommy please fix it.

2) It is not funny when Mommy lobs a snowball at my head. It wasn't funny the first time, and it wasn't funny the second time. Nor was it funny the fourteenth and fifteenth times either. If it hasn't gotten you a laugh by now, please, LET IT GO. It's not like this hurts me or even bothers me, but when the snowball hits my head it explodes and then I can't eat it.

Other than that....let the snow celebrations begin!

Take care all,

Polar Rudy.

A few things I've tried this week...

Mommy cooked something called "Thanksgiving Dinner" on Sunday. She says we postponed it because of my surgery on the "real" Thanksgiving. I'm not really familiar with the concept, so I'm not really sure why the specific date matters.

But, oh, do I LOVE this Thanksgiving Dinner concept. Mommy cooked for two solid days. And when Mommy's in the kitchen that's where you'll find me (and Smudgie too).

I ate lots of carrot skin curls (and to think Mommy calls them garbage). I got to taste yams, pecans, whipping cream from a spray can (freaky, but yummy), devilled eggs, ham, garlic sausage, and lots, lots more.

She cooked a turkey for what smelled like months, and I even got a tiny taste of that, too. And then there was gravy on my kibble that night!

I hope we do Thanksgiving at least once a week from now on.

Take care all, and happy arbitrary Thanksgiving!

Rudy, who is so thankful.

I think the snow might really be coming...

It got really cold and rainy here. We haven't seen the sun in months. (Smudgie says I'm exaggerating, but I don't think I am). Mommy hung out laundry on Sunday, and it's been raining ever since. That must be months, right?


Anyway, it's cold. My feeties feel chilly and Hudson's complaining about his delicate feet and hating the rain. Do you think? Dare I hope? Could it possibly be? Could there be SNOW on the way?


Please, please, please think snowy thoughts for me. I'd be so thrilled to see snow again. Mommy and Daddy say that snow is a bad word, but I can't possibly see how that could be true.











This picture is of my glorious snow, but it's from last year. Dare I dream that something so wonderful could ever happen again?

Cross your fingers for me, and take care all.

Rudy, aspiring snowdog

This picture needs no explanation other than HOW IS THIS FAIR!?!?!?!?!?!

I know it's been a long time but...

I did promise to tell you the story of Daddy and the horse. It doesn't seem as funny now, but a few weeks ago Mommy and Daddy went to brunch with Grandma and Grandpa, and the restaurant has a field of horses.

Mommy and Daddy were early, so Daddy went to pet the horses. He didn't stop to get them carrots, and they're used to getting carrots. There were four horses, and Mommy says that three were very nice, but the white one got really mad at Daddy for not bringing him a carrot...so he bit Daddy.

I'm really not sure why Mommy thought this was so funny, but she still laughs about it now. Daddy got a bruise from the horse, and apparently brought him lots of carrots after brunch.

If anyone had thought to bring me along to this "brunch" thing, I would have protected my Daddy from the evil horsies. You betcha.

Yet another example of how leaving me out of eating experiences is NEVER the right choice.

Take care all, and watch for Ninja horsies.

Rudy, the absent protector

Just a quick question...

I know my Mommy's a teacher, but shouldn't she know how to count to four?

I think she should be able to.

Yet whenever the uprights decide on ice cream (and Smudgie and I wait so patiently for our shares), they always bring two bowls to a room with FOUR of us.

So, why can't she count to four when there's ice cream involved?

Sigh.

Take care all.

Rudy, who does not like this new math stuff!

What is the best way to bite a piano?

When Daddy agreed to bring the old piano into the house he thought Mommy would lose interest right away, but she's been playing it for hours and hours a day. It's nice and all (could use a tuning though, even I know that), but it is seriously cutting into our TV and snuggling time.

If I bite the piano will it go away?

I'm falling behind in all my shows...there are some episodes of Billy the Exterminator that Mommy taped (they're old, but I haven't seen them yet), and THEY ARE JUST SITTING ON THE PVR.

I am not allowed to use the remote myself...something about Smudgie eating the one from the DVD player when he was younger. I need my Billy fix!

So, can I interest anyone in a piano? I'm not enjoying sharing my Mommy.

Take care all,

Rudy, who is not the Piano Man

Just a quick update

I'm feeling great. Daddy's started us back on big walks, and my stitches are holding nicely. I think they look pretty handsome, actually. Makes me look like a biker sheepie.

I have been staying away from socks, but have been eyeing Mommy's gloves. It hasn't snowed (Smudgie says it will eventually though...I hope he's not teasing me because I LOVE snow!) and yet Mommy's already wearing them. She says her colleagues (whatever those are) laugh at her because she is already wearing mittens, two jackets, and a fuzzy scarf for recess duty, but refuses to give up her sandals yet. Personally, I think it's just to keep the socks at bay. It's all just for me.

I do have something yucky to report. Mommy wasn't kidding when she said I'd be going outside wearing a muzzle. She got one. It's like a big basket that goes over my face. I CAN'T EAT ANYTHING GOOD off the ground now. She keeps threatening to make me wear it in the house too, whenever she can't keep her eyes on me.

How is that fair?

Anyway, I should head back to my crate. If Mommy realizes I sneak out and blog while she's at school I'll find myself wearing that horrible thing on my face while I'm crated too, and that would seriously mess with my naptime.

Take care all, and here's hoping the snow falls on ya soon, wherever you are!

Rudy, the snowdog! (Who is a jolly, happy, HEALTHY soul these days.)

I'm baaaaaaaaack!

Hi everyone.

I'm back and feeling just fine.

Mommy and the amazing Dr. Moffatt both think I should still be taking it easy, but I'm just having so much fun feeling better that I find it hard to behave. I really like pouncing on Smudgie right now. When he pounces back Mommy grabs him and HE gets into trouble. I must remember to do that often.

I'm also really enjoying the special food I get. Daddy used roast chicken this time instead of boiled chicken and it was delicious.

They bought me this thing called a muzzle. It's supposed to keep me from eating things when they can't watch me. I don't really like it now, and don't plan to, but I'll keep you updated.

I'm supposed to be in my kennel now, but I snuck out for a quick post. Thank you all so much for your care and concern. I'm sure one lucky dog, and I'm really glad to be back with you all.

I wish I could promise I'll never try that sock thing again, but I know in my heart that it will be hard to resist, so I'm only going to promise to try. Mommy and Daddy are working on desocking every single inch of the house, but I know I have to do my part too.

Take care all!

Rudy, on the road to recovery

Update on Rudy

Hello everybody. This is Tracie blogging for Rudy. Many of you already know what's been going on for him, but I thought I'd put an update here for those who don't.

On Thursday he was ill. He'd been throwing up and was definitely not himself. We rushed him to the vet, and they took x rays which didn't show much, except some gas and discomfort. They gave him barium, and said to bring him back for a follow up x ray at nine the next morning.

By morning he was a lot weaker, and definitely in a lot of pain. I took him to the vet early, and left him there. I figured he was in much better hands there than with us. I went to work and waited for a call.

The call came almost immediately. Rudy was in trouble. Big trouble. Even though work is only about two blocks from the vet the drive felt like it took a million years. By the time I arrived (maybe a minute and a half later), Rudy was being prepped for emergency surgery. He'd gone into full on shock right after I left him, and were it not for some wonderful coincidences and great luck (the tech decided to x ray him early and discovered he'd started to crash, Dr. Moffatt came in early and noticed a sick sheepie, etc) we would have most certainly lost him.

I won't go into graphic details, but his heart rate was over 230 (I'm told a hundred is normal), and his fever was 42.1 (that's 107 for those of you who speak American). His mouth was dry, his gums were light grey, and his eyes were empty. I held him while they prepped him, and had this very real feeling that the life was fading from him, and fast.

Dr. Moffatt works miracles. I've always known that. He rushed him into the operating room (it was like a scene from a TV show), and in a very short period of time, Rudy was open from stem to stern, and his intestines were spread out all over...and I do mean all over. It's hard to imagine all that stuff in his little belly.

A sock was found, and it caused all sorts of damage. His intestines were not a natural colour at that point, and while they started to pink up almost immediately we have been warned that at that point there was no way of knowing what the outcome might be. We'd been lucky he survived the surgery.

We took turns sitting with him throughout the day Friday. He didn't come out of the anesthetic easily, and it took a long time for him to swallow on his own, so he was officially in intensive care for a long time. By five o'clock he was just starting to lift his head and look around. It was heartbreaking to have to leave him overnight, knowing that there was no one with him in case the worst happened, but Dr. Moffatt didn't think that transferring him was a good idea, so we had to spend a very difficult night without him, not knowing if we'd see him again in the morning. We were told there was a very real chance he'd not make it.

We arrived at the vet very early on Saturday morning, and sat in the parking lot waiting for them to open. The techs came in, and one by one they walked the other dogs we'd gotten to know from the surgical and med wards through the parking lot. There were tears in our eyes, knowing that Rudy might already be gone. He'd been so sick the night before, and so weak.

Imagine the tears and shrieking that came out of us when he WALKED out that door, to go for a pee. The word miraculous has been said by many (especially the clinic staff, which makes it really meaningful) to describe Rudy over the last few days, and I swear I heard a choir of angels singing in the background when he walked out.

We spent the morning, and early afternoon with him, but we were again warned that he was not out of the woods yet. There's still a chance the damage will turn out to be too severe, and infection is an ever concerning possibility.

We also were told that if he didn't start eating, Dr. K would want to keep him in the clinic. Again there was no one to monitor him/stay with him, but Dr. K would go in periodically to check on him and walk him, etc. Since it's a long weekend, this would have meant keeping him until Tuesday morning, and I couldn't stand the thought.

But, Miracle Rudy keeps on amazing us. The clinic staff stayed two hours late yesterday, and let us stay until the absolute last bit of paperwork and cleaning was done. And wouldn't you know it? About fifteen minutes before we had to leave Rudy started to eat. He only had a tablespoon or so, but it was enough to get Dr. K's approval to bring him home and care for him here.

He's still very sore...who wouldn't be? But he's happier at home. I cried when he walked in the door. And, last night (Saturday) he even had his first official poop. It was gross and disgusting, but we'd been prepared for this. He's sleeping a lot, which is great for healing, and has been eating small amounts steadily.

He had a good sleep on the bed last night, and whenever he woke up (which of course woke me up) I brought him his food and water and he grazed a little all night long. This morning, he woke up and attacked his bowl of food.

So, we're still not sure where this is all going. There are lots more hurdles to get by, but so far Miracle Rudy is doing unexpectedly well. I don't want to make any predictions at this point, but I will say he's one strong little fellow. I will also add that Dr. Moffatt and the staff at Transcona Vet really are amazing, and that there's no doubt in my mind that they all, collectively, worked a miracle for us.

So, thanks to those who have sent their good wishes. All those warm thoughts definitely helped Rudy. I'm sure he'll be back and blogging soon. Hopefully we'll have lots more good news to come, and I'm sure he'll have lots to say about the shiny new basket muzzle he'll be getting to wear when he's not fully supervised. We can't possibly go through this again. Rudy my love, socks are evil. Remember that.

Thanks again to all. So many people helped (directly and indirectly) get us all through this terrible time. A special thanks as well to Auntie Brighit and Cousin Vienna for Hudson sitting. It really took a load off our minds to know he was well taken care of. And who knew Hudson could walk two and a half miles? He fusses for us at two and a half blocks! I asked him about it, but he says what happens at Brighit's stays at Brighit's. Then he mumbled something about how if they'd all just stayed at Brighit's in the first place then this two and a half mile ordeal would never have happened.

Thanks so much everyone. We'll keep you updated for sure.

Tracie, on behalf of Rudy and the whole family

So here's my Monday story...

My sick bum wasn't doing any better on Monday, and the uprights still insist on leaving me in my crate, so unfortunately I had a little oops while locked inside.

I then tried really, really hard to move away from it, but mostly I ended up thrashing about in my crate, so it didn't take long for my nice white and grey fur to become completely a different colour.

Mommy went out for dinner with some friends, so it was Daddy's job to come home early. Unfortunately, he wasn't early enough.

When he got home and opened the crate it was obvious he had no plan in mind. I was just sooooo happy to be out of the box o'poop that I ran out of my crate, and celebrated my escape by doing victory laps all around the house. It never occurred to me that my feet might be a tad, um, poopy.

So Daddy chased me outside. Then he washed my feeties enough to walk me through the house and down the stairs. We had a shower. What fun! I love it when I get that much attention. The warm water feels nice, and the shampoo always smells so good. And it's all attention for ME!!! (Hudson ran and hid in the bedroom, so he missed out.)

Then, Daddy dried me. Next he took apart my crate and washed it inside and out with water and bleach. It looks spiffy now.

Then, he spent an hour and a half steam cleaning ALL the carpets on the main floor. Poor guy.

Finally, he collapsed in bed (without any dinner) just before nine. We all snuggled, which was nice. I was still pretty damp and a little cold. Anyway, about ten minutes later Mommy came home and started teasing Daddy about being in bed so early. She called him a "slacker." He was too tired to even argue, so she didn't even hear about our great poop adventure until the next day. Poor Daddy.

Anyway, by Tuesday my bum was feeling better, so that's the end of my story.

Take care all, and next I'll tell you about how Daddy got bitten by a horse this week. Silly Daddy!

Rudy, who always dishes the straight poop

Wow, I've missed you.

I have lots to share with you. It's been a crazy week. Mommy's been working late a lot, and Daddy's been really busy too. It's been hard for us dogs to get any time for fun.

The BBQ last weekend was awesome. But I didn't behave very well, and now Mommy's not happy with me at all. The first part wasn't my fault...well, at least I don't think so. It seems I ate something I shouldn't have (although I don't know of anything I shouldn't eat...) and my tummy was upset, so my bum got involved.

Long story short...I am SO SORRY about Auntie Brighit's carpet.

I also did pretty well with a puppy on the other side of the fence. I really did...until Smudgie let out one little bark and then I had to do my killer moves, and suddenly everyone was mad at me.

Then, later, in the house I did really well with the cat sitting on the opening in the wall. I didn't fuss at all. And then he moved. So I fussed. And again everyone got mad.

I don't get it. I was only protecting them from a killer cat. Some people think that they are cute, but I know that they really aren't much different than lions and tigers. And no one wants THOSE in their house!

Smudgie was no help at all. He immediately left us all and went to sleep in Auntie Brighit's room. Turns out there were at least two, maybe three, possibly six, but most likely a thousand other cats already sleeping in there. They each tried to creep out past him and you know what HE did about it?

NOTHING!

He didn't even lift his head. I know he saw them. I know he smelled them. Why didn't he DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT IT?

So, I was on a very short leash all night. Auntie Brighit and my cousin Vienna and my cousin Jzero said I wasn't being too bad, but Mommy and Daddy aren't buying it. I'm thinking Bad Dog Relocation Program or something like that.

At the end of the night I remembered to thank everyone for inviting me over (except the cats, who quite frankly, I would have preferred on the BBQ instead of having free run of the house). Smudgie again showed no doggy solidarity. Cousin Vienna brought a cat right up to him, and held it to his face. He made a big show of yawning and walking away.

Nice. Thanks for showing me up and making Mommy and Daddy even more unhappy with me.

Well, that's my update for now. I'll have to tell you about my horrible day on Monday, but that will have to wait.

I'm pretty sure I just heard the tinkle of my leash, and so I must run!

Take care all.

Rudy the Great Protector

Update

We're free now, and the bedroom, though ugly, has been put back together. Mommy's almost finished washing all the blankets and bedding (they got dusty) and all the carpet and understuff is removed. Mommy cut up all the understuff and filled nine garbage bags. Daddy threw the carpet off the balcony and into "Poo Corner."

Mommy's gonna kill him for that one, sooner or later. Sheesh. I really liked him.

So here's the problem. Smudgie's afraid of the bedroom now and won't walk on the floor. So, I can still sprawl out on the bed and watch the window, but he cries from the hallway.

Silly Smudgie. It's the exact same room, except (turns out Mommy was right), now it smells better, and your nails make a great clacking sound.

I don't know what he'll do at bedtime, but I do know that I'll have more bed this way.

In other news...

TOMORROW I GO TO MY VERY FIRST BBQ!! I actually got invited to one. Well, to be honest, Mommy and Daddy and Smudgie are coming too, but this is my very first BBQ invitation. Mommy and Daddy say there will be cats there. Smudgie says the cats are what we BBQ. I think Smudgie is probably just saying that to upset me, but just in case he's not, I want to say I am definitely opposed to BBQing cats. I like them, and would prefer to have them as friends.

Take care all, and be sure to invite a sheepdog (or two) to your next BBQ. And please, only have cats there as invited guests.

Rudy (Iron Chef BBQ)

They think I'm tucked away in my crate.

Shhhhh.

Don't rat me out.

The uprights (okay, mostly Mommy) think the bedroom carpet smells like pee. I don't see why it would. I haven't peed in there in over a month. And she's steam cleaned it with all kinds of stinky bleach and not so stinky vinegar (makes me think of french fries....yummy), so how on earth could it still smell?

So, she started picking at the edge of the carpet in the bedroom and Daddy was trying to nap and told her not to. So she kept on picking, and then he told her a little louder NOT TO, so she pouted and left the bedroom, which got Daddy worried, so HE started peeling the carpet and then called her back.

And three hours later the house is a disaster, and Smudgie and I are tucked away in our crates.

Apparently they didn't think we were all that helpful when we were climbing all over the carpet waves, or nibbling on the TWO layers of underlay stuff that was beneath it. I heard Mommy say that there were still spots that were wet on the floor. I take offense at that. I haven't peed in a month, and the new roof has been on for three. I find it hard to believe that the carpet was still wet at the bottom.

But Daddy says so, too. So I'll just disagree quietly.

Anyway, now they're frantically tearing everything apart, but of course they didn't bother to take the furniture OUT of the room to do this. Nope. Daddy lifted a piece of furniture while Mommy pulled the carpet. Then they moved to another place and did it again. I was sure the TV was going to fall right off the dresser and onto Daddy. So was Mommy. She shrieked, and Daddy's face got all grouchy looking, and shortly after Smudgie and I went to doggie jail.

I don't know WHAT they're thinking. I heard Mommy say we're going to live with the plywood until everything has a chance to completely dry out. I can't imagine what my delicate little bottom will sleep on tonight.

Why oh why did they do this?

Don't they know.

Change is bad.

Very very bad.

Gotta head back to my crate now. I hear footsteps coming. I must not let them see my at the keyboard.

Take care all,

Rudy, who can't imagine being snug as a bug without a rug.

We need kind thoughts for cousin Malarki

My Grandma and Grandpa's dog, Malarki, is really sick. He spent two nights at the emergency vet with something called pancreatitis and something else called dehydration.

Then he got moved to Transcona Vet where he spent one night already, and possibly has to do one more.

He's getting better I hear, but kind thoughts would definitely help him.

I never got to meet him (yet) because Mommy's afraid I'd bark and snarl and maybe bite him. I promise I'd try to be good, but she's not trusting me yet.

Anyway, hurry home Malarki. I really want to be a good boy and meet you soon!

Take care Malarki

Cousin Rudy, who's rootin' for ya!

Did you know that some dogs have horns?

Mommy and Daddy and Smudgie and I went to that wonderful place called Bird's Hill Park today. We drove for hours and hours to get there (yet the drive back was really short...hmmm). We got out, had some pees and poos before we hit the trail (Mommy won't let us start until we poo because apparently the garbage can is near the start of the trail and she doesn't want to carry our poo the whole time. I happen to think we make really good poo. Sometimes mine has socks in it!)

Anyway, once we were off it was wonderful. The leaves on the trees were completely different colours than they were two weeks ago when we last did that trail. How nice it is that someone came along and coloured them all different colours, just for us.

I sniffed every single blade of grass and each and every leaf there was. It was fantastic. We walked for a long time and even as I write this my paws are black on the bottom. There's a weird smell in the air. Mommy called it "fall." I've never had fall before, but I wonder if it's connected to all the pretty coloured leaves on the ground?

Anyway we walked and walked and walked. It was great. And when it was over, we crossed the roadway and went to the Farmer's Market at Pine Ridge Hollow.

Except it wasn't there anymore. The market that is. Pine Ridge Hollow was still there, and we could smell the food, but we didn't get any.

Anyway, Daddy took us to this area where there were pens, and I saw these two funny looking dogs. They were bigger than me, and they were sitting on top of their dog houses. Weird. I sat and looked at them, and was about to make a fuss (after all, I have to defend my family from marauding dogs, don't I?) when I noticed something really, really weird.

This dog had horns.

Really BIG horns.

In fact, they both had horns.

So, I decided that they were best left alone. They had horns and they smelled funny, so why mess with them?

I'll take them down next time I'm there.

Take care all.

Rudy, the dog who stares at dogs with horns

This really crossed the line.

The uprights (both) took me to the vet today, and I was almost prepared for what was going to happen. Someone always puts their hand in my bum and squeezes, but I was NOT ready for this.

I can barely speak of it, so this will be a short post. The vet showed my Mommy how to do it and before I knew it the hand in my bum belonged to MOMMY! Yikes. And she didn't know what she was looking for so she dug around. Double yikes.

The vet said she did well. No one asked me.

And that's the last we'll be talking about THAT subject for a good long time.

Take care all, and always guard your flank.

Rudy (currently clenching his patootie)

There's this big thing in my living room

First of all, sorry I've been off the computer for a while. Mommy went back to school and her laptop hasn't even been turned on. What a difference from the summer holidays when she spent all her time playing this silly game called Plants Vs Zombies. I could always sneak on then.

Anyway, she finally turned it on, and then spent an hour griping about something called a Grant Summary that apparently is due on Friday, and she did it in June, but then they changed something called a template, and now she has to redo it, and I've NEVER heard Mommy say THOSE words before. You know the ones I mean.

Anyway, she walked away from her computer so here I am, telling you our news...

Something called a piano was just delivered.

It's really old, and dusty, and smelly.

Daddy's really excited. He wants to get it cleaned up and fixed. The men who brought it in say it's in good shape, but Mommy's skeptical (she always is!) She says it was against a concrete wall in a basement for twenty three years and that there's no way it's in good shape.

So, the guys who delivered it say it's a great piano, and worth cleaning up and tuning. They played it, and said it sounds pretty bad right now. Finally they left, and Mommy let me and Smudgie see it.

I like it, but Smudgie doesn't.

He sniffed it and paced around it and then Mommy sat down and started playing it.

He yiped and ran away.

Mommy said, "Great. That'll be good for yet another week-long-pee-in-the-house drama from Smudge."

I wonder if she'll let me play it. I think I'd be pretty good.

Hmmmm. Maybe I'll do that while she's at work. I did hear her say that with the new (old) piano there's no room for my crate in the living room. She hopes I won't need it for much longer, but apparently the carpet I ate on Saturday night (and then threw up all over Daddy on Sunday morning) suggests otherwise.

Take care all. I'll try to write more often!

Wolfgang Amadeus Rudy

Mommy and Smudgie are having a battle of wills...and my money's on Mommy.

Hudson was bad again today. He saw some butter on the counter and he ate it, foil wrapper and all. I heard Mommy say it was about a quarter of a cup, and that there would probably be something called "hot buttered puke" later on today. Normally I'm always up for trying something new, but that does not sound appetizing, so I intend to pass.

Apparently it's game on now. I've figured out what Mommy's up to. I've heard the story about how she cured her first sheepie (BRANDON, who spelled his name in all caps, but I've no idea why) of counter surfing.

Mommy's been leaving out some really tempting things on the counter, near the edge, and they've all been liberally seasoned with cayenne pepper. She told me all about it, and let me smell it, and then offered me about two grains to lick. I did not like them at all. She told me that's what everything on the counter now tastes like and to stay away. I will for sure stay away, but I don't steal from counters anyway. I'm a sock man myself.

Hudson stole some more butter (a tiny little piece) right in front of Mommy. But he got more than he bargained for. He was so upset, and he ran for the water bowl, but Mommy was holding it and made him sit and wait to get it. He said the flavour was horrible and his mouth burned.

She didn't make him wait that long, but he was shooting lasers out of his eyes the whole time. Then he had a drink, calmed down, and did it again...TWICE MORE.

I told him to stop. I told him to give this up, but he and Mommy are battling it out. I think she'll win. But how many more times will he do this?

Let's all hope that Smudgie gets over himself fast. I'd like the kitchen to go back to smelling nice...right now any self respecting dog can smell the cayenne a mile away. I even hung out in the dining room during dinner. It smelled better.

Take care all, and keep Smudgie in your thoughts. He's really his own worst enemy in this one.

Rudy, unseasoned

Winnipeg can be dangerous after all.

Late last night I had to protect my uprights (and my silly little big brother Hudson) from a late night OWL ATTACK.

I could hear them, discussing their attack plans, in the tree by our window. I barked several warnings, and the uprights woke up and said, "Go to sleep." I don't know why they thought the owls would listen to them. They told the owls to be quiet and go lay down a bunch of times. They never even stopped to thank me. Even Hudson seemed very ungrateful.

I kept going to the window, but had no back up, so I did the only thing I could think to do. I put down a protective perimeter of pee in the bedroom, knowing that the owls would think twice before crossing that.

Right in the middle of this, Mommy woke up and yelled, "NO!" Finally she was a little stronger in her opinion of owls. Then Daddy (who clearly misunderstood what I was doing) took me away from the battlefront, made me pee outside (as if I still needed to, silly Daddy), and then used the big old steam cleaner to remove my perimeter.

That was it. We appeared to be doomed. So I did the only thing I could think of. I herded the uprights into a small space on the bed, and then had Hudson snuggle up close. Then I protected them all with my body by stretching myself out and positioning myself on top. To further confuse the enemy I added a warning message that I repeated for hours. It sounded a lot like a snore, but it said, "Stay away. Do not attack. You will be killed. Rudy's on the alert."

But Mommy again misinterpreted my efforts, and left the safety of our huddle. She says she hung out on the internet for hours, and then slept in the TV room on the big comfy sofa.

But, we're all okay this morning, and the evil owls have moved on, so it appears my strategy worked. I've saved my family again and no one has bothered to say a simple thank you. But that's okay. I feel really good inside knowing that I know how to protect my family. And I'll get some naps in today so I can be at my best tonight to fend off any further attacks. Who knew that owls can be even more dangerous than gators? (Gators may be bigger and stronger, but they rarely organize their offensives like owls do.)

Take care all, and keep an eye on those latenight treetops.

Rudy, who heard the owls call his name





This image is not an actual image from last night. This is a Great Grey Owl, the official owl of Manitoba, however, the ones from last night were sabre toothed Great Grey Owls, wearing full body armour and carrying semi automatic weapons. I'm sure of that.