How Do We Say "I Love You"?

I love the topic of love. I am very lucky to have so many people in my life that love me so much. I can tell by their words and actions. It could be that special rub of my ears, the pat on my head or the long rub on my belly. These things do not go unnoticed. It makes a girl feel pretty special!!!

I like to show my love in return. In case you did not know, this is how we show it. We jump on you, shove our head under your hand to make you lay your hand on us, or give you "the eyes". You cannot forget my favorite the loud, loving bark.

I hope you enjoy this Valentine's Day with the ones you love. With Much Love, Scout.

Dog Training Basics

A dog is a very smart creature, like me of course. It does not take much to get us to do a few tricks. There are a number of options to gather information to start the training. You can get books at the library and pet store, the internet, training classes, and even your local 4-H group might have a dog project. These resources will show you where to start and how a little treat can get us to do just about anything. The first command you will want to start with is sit. For the "excited" dog, like me, this can be just a little more difficult. I blame it on my wonderful, wagging tail. With a little patience and a great treat it can be done. Start off with no longer than 5 minutes. You don't want to overwhelm your dog. You can try this during your walk, before you give them their food or just about any time. Well, keep up the good work--I can't wait to hear about your progress. Scout.

Your New Best Friend

A number of families added new pets to the household during the Christmas Holidays. It is important to remember that they need a little guidance and training to adjust to their new home. You need to put them on a schedule, just like a new baby. Dogs are really smart and can quickly fall into a routine with such things as feeding schedules, house training, exercise and sleeping. Before you know it, your pet will be reminding you what needs to be done next. This is a whole new world for them and this will allow them to adjust quickly. You can enjoy your pet even more with a good routine in place. Well, I better go....it is almost time to eat breakfast!! Scout

Lodging "Fit For A Dog"

So many times we are not able to travel with our families, but the wonderful places we get to stay are a vacation all their own. The special people that take such great care of us are a real blessing--sharing their love with us each day as they come and check on us, feed us and play with us. I want to say "Thank You." It means so much to me and my family. My family is able to enjoy their trip knowing that I am in good hands. Have a wonderful Christmas!!

Love,

Scout

My Special Gift For You

Are you looking for a special gift you can make for your Mom & Dad or Grandmother & Grandfather for Christmas? Why don't you try making them something? Here are the Paper Mache Bowl instructions from my book, Scout...The Dog Who Learned Mona Lisa's Secret.

1 cup flour

1 1/2 cups water

1 tablespoon salt

Newspaper, torn into 4-inch by 1-inch strips (approximately)

Petroleum jelly

Tempera powder paint

Clear sealing spray for crafts

1. Select a small bowl (with no rim) and turn it upside down on a cookie sheet.

2. Spread a thick layer of petroleum jelly over outside and top edge of bowl.

3. Put flour and water in a mixing bowl; beat with wire whisk until smooth. Mixture should be like thick glue (a little runny-not too thick).

4. Dip 1 newspaper strip at a time into the paste; pull strip between 2 fingers to remove extra paste.

5. Place wet newspaper strips on outside of bowl in an up-and-down pattern, covering all of bowl.

6. Dip more newspaper strips into paste and add a second layer of strips to the bowl, first going up and down, then going across.

7. Dip additional strips into paste and add 4 more layers of newspaper strips on the bowl, first going up and down, then going across.

8. Let dry for 24 hours; take paper mache bowl off regular bowl, using a knife to loosen around edges. Uneven edges may be trimmed with sharp scissors.

9. Paint inside and outside of paper mache bowl with tempera paint; let dry (it may take more than one coat). Spray sealer on bowl to make it last longer.

10. Fill bowl with small wrapped candies, nuts in their shells, potpourri, etc.

I am certain that those you share this bowl with will just love it.

Merry Christmas,

Scout

Perfect Pet Picking

With the Christmas Holidays right around the corner, a lot of families will be looking to add a new pet to their family. There are a few things to consider when choosing a pet for your family.

~How much time do you have to spend with a pet?

~What is the activity level of the breed?

~Do you have someone to care for your pet if you have to be away from home?

~Will the breed work well with your family (children or no children)?

~What type of animal will work best with your home (climate, indoor or outdoor, long hair or short hair)?

If you do your planning and research before you make your choice, I know you and your new pet will be extremely happy!

Cold Weather Pet Tips!!

The weather in South Texas is always unpredictable. We are now in the cool mornings, warm days and cold nights. It is important to remember to care for your pet during these changing temperatures. On those really cold nights, you might think about setting up a kennel in the house. This will ensure the warmest and safest place for your pet. You can also set up an ares for him in the garage with a nice warm bed and blankets. Use caution when using heaters around your pets. They can be easily excited and might knock it over. One of the cutest ways to keep your pet warm is with fun clothes and jackets. Be sure and get the best fit for your pet and be sure to take it off when it warms up. Most importantly have fun with your pet this winter.

Until next time.......Scout!!!