New Puppy Arrives Late October

Sadie, my dachshund, missed her companion Spencer since his passing in August. We decided to take the leap and acquire another dachshund as a companion for Sadie. The new puppy will be Sadie's brother from a recent litter of her parents. We are already looking at the best options for the introduction of Sadie to her bother to minimize any behavioral or jealousy issues on Sadie's part. My hope is that she will help us care for him. My other hope is that he will be a bit more laid back than she is. I have a list of names going for potential names. The breeder named him Spats but will not be keeping that choice.

Spencer Memories

Spencer would sit patiently during Christmas time photo shoots. He would often strike a classic pose perfect for holiday cards. Note the perfect stance in the first photo and the classy bow tie in the second. He looks huge in these photos. Yesterday he weighed in at a mere five pounds. I will also note that when a vet tells you to put your cat or dog on a special diet it is worth the extra expense. Spencer had been on a special diet since November 2008 due to his kidney problem. The special diet bought us close to two years more of added companionship. I learned this lesson early on in my care of Spencer. When he was a two, he had a bladder infection that was most likely due to the high ash content of inexpensive dry cat foods. I switched over to a better brand and he was much improved.

Spencer 1993 - 2010

Today, I had to put down my Spencer. I had the pleasure of his company for over 17 years. He quickly deteriorated over the past week. I feel numb about his passing but am glad I was able to be with him as he took his last breath. I love him and will miss him meeting me at the door when I come home from work. Spencer, you were loyal and the time passed too quickly.

Not a Creature - cat or dog - was Stirring

Sadie was the last to settle in as Spencer was already curled up like a little spotted snake. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Angels

Last night on Christmas Eve, Sadie and Spencer both curled up into a conjoining fur ball. Said was on look-out of course since there is always a chance one may drop a colorful or tasty holiday snack on the rug.

Sunday Nap Take Two

Their sleepy eyes report the fact that the only event that could perk their ears or manage to motivate a tail wag would be dinner time, followed by an after-dinner Greenie (for Sadie).

Sadie and Spencer's Nap Debate

After a brief nap, both decided to discuss what the rest of Sunday afternoon might hold for both of them. The decision was easy and the verdict was not a surprise. They decided to continue productive napping and accomplished little to nothing for the remainder of Sunday evening.

Spencer Turns 16

My dear old bachelor cat, Spencer, just turned 16 this spring. He is in great health with the exception of having failing kidneys. Weighing in at about six pounds, he has always kept his youthful adolescent figure. For the last two years, he has made many futile attempts to ignore the fact that there is a dog in the house. Lately....I would say within the last month he has become more tolerant of Sadie. He will sleep next to her and be in the same room as her. Spewing and hissing are still common but it's all for show. One maneuver of Sadie's he will not tolerate is bum sniffing. He likes to keep his privates out of the public arena.