Wiener Resolutions

This is Adley's thinker pose--he's very intent on accomplishing his resolutions this year!

Article and photo reprinted from Who's your Dachshund, Ten Bloggers, Sixteen Dachshunds, One blog

As much as I revere my pups and think they're brilliant, I am pretty sure that they have no idea that the new year is rapidly approaching, but if they did, I believe these would be their resolutions:

1.Eat more, and perfect those puppy eyes so we get treats every time we go in the crate. We do need to pad up for our move to the cold north, after all.
2.Lick more. Nails, post shower skin, rawhides, you name it.
3.Learn to hide things from each other better. It's so annoying when the other one finds my bone--wasn't hiding it under the blanket thorough enough?
4.Find more shoes and sandals to destroy. We haven't done this in a few months--isn't it time to pick up the slack?
5.Perfect our howling. We're obviously not loud enough if our mom and dad don't turn right back around to coddle us upon leaving home.
6.Teach Radish to burrow better. It gets old when we have to wait for our mom and dad to lift the blanket for her. We demand immediate access to warmth.
7.Provide more dog blog fodder. We're funny critters, right? RIGHT?
This is Adley's thinker pose--he's very intent on accomplishing his resolutions this year!

That's all they've got this year! What are your pups' resolutions?

Art Showcase Offers Children Unique Opportunity to Share Lessons Learned

Author Yvonne Perry announces an online art and writing showcase and asks children to write a story or create an art piece to showcase life lessons they have learned.

Nashville, TN—After a successful 30-day Internet tour in which she visited more than 25 blogs to share her new book, Yvonne Perry has opened the lines of communication between parents and children with a online community project. Children ages 3 through 9 are encouraged to write their own story or create artwork that demonstrates a lesson they have learned by reading The Sid Series ~ A Collection of Holistic Stories for Children (ISBN: 9780982572207). Every participant will get a free copy of the e-book comprised of the art and stories created by the children.

Inspired by adventures Yvonne has enjoyed with her first-born grandson named Sidney, each story in The Sid Series focuses on skills such as overcoming fear, being environmentally conscious, helping others, being true to one’s self, and following inner guidance. There’s even a story about recycling that alludes toward organ donation. This collection of body-mind-spirit stories highlights unique lessons about love, acceptance, self-worth, caring for the body, diversity, facing fears, dealing with change, experiencing the death of a pet, using mystical gifts today’s children exhibit.

To participate you must be familiar with the lessons taught in The Sid Series, but if a family is financially unable to purchase a copy of the book, you may let the author know which lesson your child wants to illustrate or write about, and she will send you a PDF of that story. For a list of stories and lessons contained in The Sid Series, see http://TheSidSeries.com.

“Spending time with my grandchildren has provided me with an opportunity to talk about some pretty adult topics—some that many parents and teachers are hesitant to discuss with children,” says Yvonne Perry, the owner of Writers in the Sky Creative Writing Services. “By sharing the stories in The Sid Series through this art showcase, I hope to reinforce and enhance these and other life lessons, and help open lines of communication between children and adults.”

Children may share a story by drawing, painting, sketching, writing, or speaking about how they learned or experienced a Sid lesson. Parents are asked to assist the child with typing, scanning, and digitally uploading their child’s story or artwork . The child may color a picture directly from The Sid Series Coloring Book or record himself reading from the book by calling (214) 615-6505 ext 1210. Yvonne believes this is a great way to learn what’s on your child’s mind and offer supportive answers for their earnest questions. Entries may be sent between December 26, 2009 and January 25, 2010 by using the guidelines at http://writersinthesky.com/art-showcase.html

“The art showcase is NOT a contest,” says Perry. “I don't believe children should be judged or rejected for their heart-felt creativity. Instead, every effort will be recognized and everyone's work will be included on The Sid Series blog (http://TheSidSeries.blogspot.com) and in an e-book that can be given away to family and friends.”

A grandmother of ten, Yvonne holds a Bachelor of Science in Metaphysics from American Institute of Holistic Theology. She is a freelance writer who specializes in articles and books that guide people on a spiritual path. She is also the publisher and editor at Write On! Publishing and the owner of Writers in the Sky Creative Writing Services. Yvonne and her team assist people with writing and editing projects, as well as media releases. She has also ghostwritten and edited more than forty books.

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Contact

Yvonne Perry

(615) 415-9861

http://writersinthesky.com/contact.php

Expressing the Bladder of a Paralyzed Dog

Ok, so I know, talking about our bodily functions can be kinda gross... but, hey, we all gotta do it, right? And since I happen to be a paralyzed dog, I need a little help on that end (pun intended!)

But here is your chance to help spread a positive message by sharing this video! Now that is a good thing, right? When I first became paralyzed my poor mom had a hard time figuring out when I had to go... so we had lots of messes, well, err, I had lots of messes. But with a little practice, my mom became a pro at helping me go to the bathroom. And you know what? I love her very much for that. You see, sadly, many dogs are put to sleep when they become paralyzed. Their mom and dad are afraid they may not be able to learn how to help their paralyzed dog go to the bathroom.

So my mom and I were very excited when we were asked to be a part of this very well done video on showing others how easy it really can be... you just have to practice... and isn't that like all things in life? We learn by practicing.

So here is where you can help!! Share this video with your local vets, with other pet parents, with your local humane societies, etc. Arf-a-roo! Thanks for your help!!

Best Christmas Gift of 2009

Mom and I gave a copy of my newest book, Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House to each of my "cousins" on Christmas Eve. My Dad is the only boy in his family with 5 sisters, so the family get togethers can be very loud and fun. But that didn't stop my cousins from sitting in the middle of the living room floor reading my new book. How hot-diggity cool is that??!! It made this dog feel very, very special.

I gave them each an extra copy so they too can make a difference, like one of the theme's of my book talks about. So Mom gave them suggestions on how they could donate the extra book, or to come up with an idea of their own.

So here are pictures of my cousins... they are the BEST and this was the BEST Christmas Gift of 2009!!

Olive & Baci- Stars of "Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Dog" Book

This is a Christmas card photo I got today from Jodee and Dan of Hundenruhe Haven Senior Dog Sanctuary and Terrier Town of precious Olive and Baci. Aren't they the cutest??!!?! They star in my book Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Dog as two friends of mine that I met at the Farmer's Market in Elkhart Lake a copule of years ago. Jodee and her husband Dan have really big hearts and take in senior dogs. Much of their hard earned money goes to taking in and caring for senior dogs that would have not otherwise had a home. They are such wonderful people and all the dogs that get to live at their cozy house are so lucky, aren't they? You can learn more about them from an article my mom wrote about them. We think they ROCK! Arf-a-roo!

Merry Christmas from Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog

A big tail waggin' Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all of you, my friends, who have followed along on my journey. My little heart is so full of joy for each of your friendships. Wishing you peace, extra biscuts, lots of pats on the head, soft squeezes, and most of all-- love.

Wheely Willy Parapeligic Celebrity Dog Passes Away at Age of 22

Frankie and I wish to express our deepest sympathy to Deborah Turner and the passing of her celebrity dog, Wheely Willy, the tiny parapeligic dog that brought immense hope and joy to the world. My heart aches greatly for Deborah, but I know Willy is safely in God's arms and an angel like no other. God Bless Willy and Deborah for all their amazing work. Rest in peace little one.

This portion below is from Wheely Willy's website. Please visit his website to read more about all the beautiful work he and his Mom, Deborah did.

Wheely Willy, the tiny paraplegic dog passed away in his sleep this morning, December 22, 2009. Best known for his inspirational story of hope and courage, this 22 year old miracle lived one of the most amazing lives of any companion animal. Many years ago Willy was abandoned in a cardboard box having sustained serious back and neck injuries. His story was chronicled on many television shows including Animal Planet. Today, the facts surrounding Willy's birth, prior life, and injuries, still remain a mystery. Following his adoption by Deborah, and acclimation to his new family of rescued animals, Willy found ways of conquering his challenges, becoming a symbol for many, of strength and willpower. He became enabled by a K-9 Cart, which changed his life, allowing him to get around on his own by propelling himself with his front legs. His humanitarian endeavors of comforting patients of every age in hospitals, and giving people hope for their own lives gave him notoriety. The small dog's many visits to convalescent homes, civic groups and schools turned him into a teaching tool for children and adults that our actions are very important, because our lives are what we make of it.

Why My Mom Wrote Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House

Art Showcase for Children

My good friend, Yvonne (or as I refer to her, my BFF) has come up with a fun-filled activity for all children! It is a Children's Art Showcase, featuring your art via writing a story, creating artwork or a recorded audio based on what you have learned from her book, The Sid Series. Be sure to submit your art for a chance to be in an ebook she will put togehter of all entries! All art is wonderful and beautiful, so don't be bashful and submit your work beginning Dec. 26th. Here is information from Yvonne to help you.

Children are encouraged to write a story, create artwork, or make an audio recording that demonstrates a lesson he or she learned by reading The Sid Series ~ A Collection of Holistic Stories for Children.The art showcase is NOT a contest! Children will not be judged or rejected for their heart-felt creativity. Instead, every effort will be recognized and everyone's work will be included in an e-book that can be shared with family and friends. Each participant will get a free copy of the e-book comprised of the art and stories created by participating children. See art showcase guidelines.

First, you have to be familiar with the lessons taught in The Sid Series. If you are unable to purchase a copy of my book, please let me know which lesson your child wants to illustrate or write about, and I'll send you a PDF of that story. The widget below shows inside the Sid book and may spark an idea.

Second, share your story by drawing, painting, sketching, or writing about how you learned or have experienced a Sid lesson in your life.

Third, you will sign a release that allows me to use your child's entry to create an e-bookand give it away to everyone who wants it. I will also post every story and piece of art turned in here on this blog.

Fourth, since an e-book is an electronic book, you will need to send me your child's writing as a Word document. You may need a scanner to convert your child's art into a jpg. The number to use for creating your audio recording is (214) 615-6505 ext 1210.

Get your copy of The Sid Series today and enter your art! Arf-a-roo!

Disabled Dachshund Found in Puppy Mill

I thought my heart would break reading this story about Rainbow the dachshund who was paralyzed and the breeder kept making her have puppies. This makes me very, very, very sad. I'm going to open up my piggy bank and send her new, kind caretakers some money so they can help her feel better again. If you have some spare change, I know it would help Rainbow.

Here is the article and where you can send donations.

You Can Help Shelter Dogs Stay Warm this Winter

Very easy to help by recycling your old dog sweaters and sending, or donationg new sweaters, or by sharing this information with your list of friends and family. Check out their blog for more information! http://bignutshell.com/blogs/dogproject/2009/12/02/send-us-your-old-sweaters-and-help-save-these-shelter-dogs-from-the-winter-chill/

Almost Perfect Holidays: Keeping Holiday Homes Safe for Disabled Pets During the Festive Season

Everyone who has a pet, disabled or not, should read this excellent article on keeping your pets during the busy, hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Head on over to my mom's blog to read it and do share it with others who have pets. Arf-a-roo!

A Can-do Canine Named Rudolph!

Meet Rudolph! I want him as my doggie boyfriend! I love you, Rudolph!

My Friends at Libby's house

I have made so many friends at Libby's House, which my newest book, Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House is based on.

Above is Janet. When I first met her she said, "I don't like dogs! And I don't like cats and fish either." Mom told me not to worry or feel bad that Janet said this. Sometimes, she said, Older people do not always realize what they say." Well, it was true she didn't like dogs. But I came to find out it was because she was bit by many of them when she was little!

Over the next few months of visiting, my mom would inch me closer and closer to Janet. Until one day when she reached out to pet me! Yes, she did! And now she likes me! She likes me! And I like her too-- well, I always did, but I just had to find a way that she could trust me... and with a little patience and kindness it didn't take long at all.

I'll share more of my friends in upcoming posts, so stay tuned!!

Dog Falls for Cat Video

Literary Ghost Dogs in Cynthia's Attic

(be sure to check out the cool book trailer video of the book below!)

Ghosts and dogs I think, make for a great story, don't you? I'm so excited to welcome Mary Cunningham, my guest blogger today whose book, Cynthia's Attic: The Magician's Castle features her beloved dog, Molly, who went to doggie heaven as she was writing this book. But her legacy lives on... as you will read. Welcome, Mary!!

I was in the middle of writing Book Four of my series, "Cynthia's Attic," when our furry, adopted "daughter" left for Doggy Heaven. Molly was 16, and had filled our lives with joy, laughter and love for almost 13 years. My friends knew what a hole this left in my heart, so one suggested, "Why don't you write Molly into the book?"

Oooh, great idea! Molly, the Time Traveling Canine. Love it! Okay, that's not the title. It's really "Cynthia's Attic: The Magician's Castle," but this little pooch plays an important role in helping best friends, Cynthia and Gus, find clues that might lead to a magician's missing assistant (and fiancée).

I don't want to give away too much about Molly's magical role, but the name and stature of Secretariat comes to mind. Heh-heh.

Although I didn't exactly write Molly's role as a Ghost Dog, she clearly has powers that allow her to travel back and forth through time, and change shapes along the way. I did some research on other fictional ghost dogs, and came up with some really scary examples!

"The Barking Ghost," by R. L. Stein in which Cooper and his friend Margaret are targeted by two evil dogs who cast a spell to switch bodies with the children, comes to mind. I can tell you right now, Molly has no evil intentions. Nor does she want to switch bodies with Cynthia or Gus. But, she does pull off some pretty amazing feats!

Just like our Molly, who stole the hearts of her mom and dad with her big brown eyes, wagging tail and boundless love so many years ago.

Who is your favorite literary ghost dog?

Thanks, Frankie for inviting me to your blog! You and Molly would've gotten along great!
~Mary

Check out the cool video!!

Mary Cunningham is the author of the award-winning 'Tween fantasy/mystery series, Cynthia’s Attic. She is proud to announce book four, "The Magician's Castle," is due for release in December, 2009. Her children's mystery series was inspired by a recurring dream about a mysterious attic. After realizing that the dream took place in the home of her childhood friend, Cynthia, the dreams stopped and the writing began.

She is also co-writer of the humor-filled, women's lifestyle book, "Women Only Over Fifty (WOOF)," along with published stories, "Ghost Light" and "Christmas Daisy," A Cynthia's Attic short story.

Purchase your copy today from Amazon!

Be sure to follow along on Mary's blog tour and up next is:
DEC 11 - Laura Schaefer - Teashop Girls Blog - "Friendship in Cynthia's Attic"
http://teashopgirl.blogspot.com/

Review from Yvonne Perry, author of The Sid Series

My new book, Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House is making it's way out into the world and the reviews are coming in! If I could wag my tail, it would be wagging 100 miles a minute from this dog gone wonderful review from Yvonne Perry, children's author of The Sid Series. Big slurp on the cheek to you, Yvonne!

Yvonne gave it 5 stars! I love stars!

Appreciate the elderly and the disabled

When I think of all the animals that are destroyed because they have a disability, it saddens me-especially when I see the good that comes from using a disability to help others. That's the case with Frankie, the Walk `N Roll Therapy Dog. In Barbara Techel's new book, she tells how she and Frankie became a therapy team and the joy that visiting Libby's House brings to them and the residents. Libby's House is a senior facility where residents have Alzheimer's, dementia, or some physical challenge from aging.

Beautiful illustrations by Victoria Kay Lieffring enhance the telling of this story. Any child or adult will enjoy seeing Frankie perched in various places like the kitchen sink, her doggie car seat (where she serves as co-pilot), the teacher's desk, Daniel's lap, the dining room table (ready to help blow out the candles on 100-year-old Martha's birthday cake), and on the sofa or beside the wheelchair of an elderly resident. Each month, the folks at Libby's House eagerly await the arrival of Barbara and Frankie ready to pet the pooch who is paralyzed in her hind quarters.

I love the way Frankie tells her own story in a play-by-play narrative. You may forget that Frankie is not a human. She sure knows how to relate to people, and she's a really polite listener even when Edith tells about Schutzie, yet again! The lighthearted humor in this book will help children and adults understand that the elderly have a lot to offer younger generations--even when they are reminiscing and don't know what day it is!

This book provides an endearing glance to help us better appreciate the preciousness in all of life's stages. Highly recommended for family reading and classroom education.

For other reviews and to purchase the book visit Amazon. Can also be purchased from Joyful Paws website where special book bundle pricing is available.

Tax Relief to Keep Pets at Home

I know my mom and papa could have used this when I had my major surgery. But glad to see something like this is in the works. Please do help by voting. So easy to do! Share with everyone you know!!

http://www.thehungersite.com/clickToGive/campaign.faces?siteId=3&campaign=HAPPYAct3501

Rip Curl Ricki

Check out this really cool dog helping others through her unique talent!! AWESOME!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGODurRfVv4

Dachshund Delights Review of My New Book

I love Jerry over at Dachshund Delights! Each month he shares news about dachshunds everywhere via his newsletter. This month he featured your truly. And wow, what a great review he wrote. He is really good at that stuff!

So be sure to visit Dachshund Delights and read his review about my new book, Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House.

If you think you just might want a copy remember I am donating a portion of my proceeds to disabled animal charities. This quarter I will donate to Tinkerbell's Fairy Dust Fund which helps animals get wheelchairs who may not have been able to get one.

And I can speak (speak!) from personal experience that my wheels are the BEST! I can be a dog and run and play and have so much fun... so I want all animals to have that too.

And just a reminder that my mom and I will be signing our newest book this Saturday. So if you live in Wisconsin, come see us! We will be at BookHeads in downtown Plymouth. 216 S. Mill Street. 11:00a-1:00p. I'll have my new holiday vest on compliments of April Scott of Hug-A-Dog. It is SO COOL! If you decide to order one for yourself be sure to use the promo code: FRANKIE when you are checking out and April will give you 10% off!

Animal Talk Naturally Radio Show TODAY!

Join my mom today on the Animal Talk Naturally Show as she talks about our newest release, Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House. Be sure to tune in at the top of the hour as the other guest will be Geoff Talbot, Veterinarian, award-winning fim maker, and actor talking about his upcoming film about two special three-legged dogs.

This will be a show packed with lots of warm fuzzies that disabled animals bring to human hearts!! My mom will also talk about National Disabled Pets Day and some cool things you can buy to support the Tinkerbell's Fairy Dust Fund to help animals get wheelchairs that need them.

Tune in at 1:30pm CST!

Dealing with the Death of a Pet

Yvonne Perry & special grandson, Sid, who her book "The Sid Series" was inspired by

It is with tail wagging pleasure that I welcome a very special lady today to my blog. Yvonne Perry is the author of The Sid Series. A collection of twelve holistic stories for children that share messages to support the whole child-- body, soul and spirit-- by empowering and building self esteem. These lessons are modeled after Yvonne's grandson, Sidney.

One of the stories is called "Puppy Love" and it as about dealing with the death of a beloved pet. Yvonne has been kind enough to share an article with us that she wrote to help you if you have ever had to deal with this, or may in the future. Without further ado, I give you my BFF (best friends forever) wonderful article:

Dealing with the Death of a Pet

I’m Yvonne Perry and I’m the author of The Sid Series. The main character in my book is my grandson, who is now eight years old. His name is Sidney. In real life, he lives in the country. When his family first moved there, the house didn’t have a fence around it. He has owned several dogs and cats—all shapes and sizes, but it seemed like every time he got close to one of his pets, they would run away or die. Sid’s yard now has a fence so Queen and Lucy will stay home where it is safe.

I remember my first dog. Her name was Snooks and she was a German shepherd. I loved it when she had a litter of puppies! I hated it when she died of heartworms. I was about twelve years old. That wasn’t my first encounter with death, but it was the first time I had lost a pet and I was pretty upset because I couldn’t see her or play with her anymore.

I wrote the stories in The Sid Series book to help kids find answers to some things they may have questions about. For example, it’s hard to understand death. It makes us feel sad when someone we love dies. Some adults say it means that you just don’t exist anymore. Others say being dead means the body can’t do anything, so the spirit leaves the body and goes to a wonderful place called heaven. Some people will tell you that dogs and cats don’t have souls so they can’t go to heaven, but I don’t believe that. I believe in a place known as the afterlife. It’s just like the place you existed before you came alive in the body you have now. Most of us don’t remember where we were before we were born, but I call it the Rainbow World. It must be a good place since none of us have bad memories of it.

Scrap is the family dog in my story titled “Puppy Love.” Scrap is old and she’s had a good life, but it’s time for her to go to the Rainbow World. One morning, her family finds her in her favorite sleeping spot, but she’s not moving; she can’t get up and she can’t bark or chase the tractor like she used to. That’s because she is dead. The family is sad and everyone cries. They wrap her in her favorite blanket, dig a big hole in the ground, and put her body in it. It’s like planting a flower or seed, but Scrap’s body is not going to grow like a flower or seed in the spring.

The family has a memorial service and talks about Scrap’s death. It’s good to talk about things that you are afraid of or don’t understand. That way, you get more information to help you decide what you want to believe.

You will get some ideas to help you create your own understanding about afterlife or the Rainbow World when you read my story. Don’t worry, it has a happy ending. If you want to read it, let Barbara or Frankie know and she will email a link to you or your parent. You may read more about each of the stories on my Web site: http://thesidseries.com./

I have learned a lot from children. So, I’d like to ask you some questions. You can answer them by leaving a comment below.

What does it mean to be dead?
Where do you think Scrap’s soul went when she died?
What do you think happened to Scrap’s body when she was buried in the ground?
Have you ever seen a person or an animal that is dead?

Yvonne is available to read her book to your classroom via Skype an Author.

To order your copy of The Sid Series you can visit Amazon. Receive The Sid Series coloring book for free when you order the print copy of the book!!

Thank you, Yvonne, my BFF, for sharing this well written article on the death of a pet. I can personally say that I know when I die my soul will stay here with my mom because I love her so much. She won't be able to pet me anymore or see me, but I will always be in her heart, loving her... and I know when my body is gone, I will one day be reunited with my mom in heaven, or as Yvonne says, "Rainbow World." I believe that we always stay with the ones we love, just in a different form.