Dear Twinkie | A Dog Advice Column

Dear Twinkie is a weekly advice column posted every Tuesday. Do you have questions that you need answered or news that you want to spread? Then leave me, Twinkie Van Twinkerson, a note on Tuesday's comments and I'll address it. This blog and column are strictly rated G and only meant for your enjoyment.

 ‪Madi and Mom‬ asked...
Hi Twinkie... oh yeah baby there was a lot lot hissing going on at my house. I told Puddles she would have been proud of me because I had several Puddles Moments....oh my cats. Mom was so not happy....with me because I hissed at her too. So I believe I once again need your advice.



Dear Twink,


I, Madi, would submit the following question for next week's column.


How does a Diva Island Princess Cat
 redeem herself in the eyes of her Mom after she has been less than
 nice to house guests and even to her Mom? You live with lots of kitties so I think you are the one to ask. 
Respectfully submitted,
Madi (hanging her head in shame)...

TVT: First of all, chin up Madster!!! A diva never hangs her head for any reason. Chin up (you will also get more chin rubs that way, and I know you cats love those). Stand tall and relax your tail. Now, what is ailing you? Don't you think that this mess was created because of your mom? I sure do! A diva should not have to share, ever. Now, having said that, I know you're a kind soul and that your hissing outside Harley's door is a way of establishing your boundaries. 

I recommend you run to a nearby store and buy yourself some Feliway to get the cornish scent out of the air. I use it all the time with my cats, but in your case, it would also be appreciated as a good-will gesture. After you install it, call your mom and rub yourself, exactly the way she likes, on her feet. Reach up and (no nails) stretch while staring right in her eyes. Then start to purr loudly so she can hear you. Consider yourself redeemed! Chances are you're also getting your favorite cat treats if you follow my advice. Good luck, dear feline furiend. 

I'm not so sure I should have mentioned the treats or the "chin up" comment. Look at that double chin!

‪3 doxies‬ asked...
Hellos my furiend...you is so full of da smarticles AGAIN!!!


Well I has a question fur ya today...can I ask two?


#1 Could you possibly tells me how I gots to be so purty?

#2 I apologize if dis is too heavy of a question and feel free to exept it if need be...Why does it hurt so freakin much when a bloggy furiend goes to da bridge? I haves never even met them but da pain is still theres.



Puddles

TVT: #1 Sorry to burst your spit bubble, Puddelicious, but your purtiness definitely has a lot to do with your mumsie's skills as a professional photographer. That doesn't mean you're not naturally purty, it just means that your inner beauty is enhanced by your momma's camera. 

#2 Nobody should ever apologize for an honest and heartfelt question. I recently wrote an article on the rainbow bridge that may give you some insight, if you can stomach the extra reading. In brief, I believe that the reason we all get really upset over the loss of a furry friend is due to our short time on this earth. Even the healthiest of us don't live as long as our humans, something that causes enormous grief on both sides. Also, all of us are prone to certain fatal ailments and diseases. Add to that our vulnerability when we run in front of oncoming traffic just because we spotted a cat or a squirrel... add to that inhuman mistreating and neglect... We are all most vulnerable. We have a high mortality rate to deal with. So, you, like the rest of us, are suffering both because of your sensitive soul and because you're a thinker. 

The way, I have chosen to deal with the pain is by telling myself that, first and foremost, once we get to the rainbow bridge all pain and suffering are in the past. Secondly, those of us who arrive at the bridge can look forward to a new beginning with the furiend's we have missed, and you know we'll all have one big party when we get together. One last thought that might help you out: since we've already established that our life is relatively short, try to celebrate it every single day.

 You are still beautifuls! You're puddelicious!

‪Amy and The House of Cats‬ asked...
Hi Twinkie! 

We love to read your column every week - we learn a lot about doggies from it! Gus has a question for you if that is ok (We know he is a cat, but it is kind of dog related). Here he is!

Hi Twinkie!

I was wondering if you knew a good way to get a big mandog to like a little kitten boy like me? See, I have a big time crush on a certain young ladycat who has a giant, Viking loving Newfie older brother and he is very protective of his little sister - which I totally understand because I am protective of my little sister (even though she is only a couple hours younger). But what is the best way to show him that when we are older I would be a good boyfriendcat for her and be very respectful of her and everything? I know we are both too young now but she is so pretty and I really like her, and I know she likes me too. Oh, I left out their names because she said he is super overprotective, and I don't want to get her in trouble. Do you have any advice to help me show him I am a good guy?

Thanks so much!



Gus

TVT: I normally would have trash-talked you a bit, Gus, but recently I learned about no-cat-day and since then, I've turned a new leaf. It's one thing making fun of cats and another to mean it. I'm honored to reply to your question, witholding names out of respect.

After a thorough internet research and several calls into dog and cat behaviorists, I am here to bring you some excellent news! The Newfie older brother in question was busted in a comment that I will quote right here: "[my younger cat sister] said to say Hi to Gus." I bet you missed the value of that statement, Gus. The bro just about gave you his blessings. You don't have to fret any longer, besides, let me give you another hint: he cuddles up with his momma when he watches not-really-scary movies, like Wolfman. Based on all this information, you can lie back and do what cats do best. Don't worry about your image. Your love-cat is yours. May the two of you stay out of cat-astrophes together.

Gus and the unnamed centerpiece of his affections.

‪houndstooth‬ asked...
Good idea about sending Blueberry in to do the asking! She's the one Mom and Dad both can't say no to!



My question this week is about Lilac. As you might know, on September 20, she will be fifteen years old. We are all very excited for her, but, she's sort of the old lady who has everything. I am wondering what would be a good present for her. Also, how can we make her birthday really special? (Besides handcuffing Alien to her fan again!)



Bunny

TVT: It's called fifteen years young, dear Bunny. Beyond what I already suggested to you in person, one-on-one time with mom and dad, I have a couple more ideas: Dress Morgan into a cat costume, buy Lilac incontinence pads, a walk for the rest of you so she can get a bit of peace and quiet for a few minutes, and last of all...

You can order her a customized photo-pillow using a picture of your dad's face.

(I'm sure he'll appreciate that present just as much as Lilac)

‪Those Elgin Pugs‬ asked...
Dear's Twinkie Van Twinkersons!!



We's didn't knows yous did not has an investigation teams to do yous leg works!! Altoes... how did yous knows our bothers was dating Sequoia?? And who is Tula?? Yous wanna knows what's up wits his ear action??
Who's asking 'da questions here??



You may address that as my next question next weeks...
And who works for yous...



Thanks..
'da Josie..who -else

TVT: I'm sorry my furiends, but I simply cannot disclose my top secret sources. You may thank them anonymously for their good work trying to figure out all the craziness in the animal blogdom, and I'll pass it on. As for the ear action, I consulted with the best professionals in the world and nobody could come up with an answer. You may need to tape down the ear or use a hair clip. As for Tula... I have already fired my secretary over this gross typo. She was only hired because she claimed she could decipher Elgin-Puguese. I had specifically dictated the name "Petunia" but she was hard of hearing (a dalmatian, a breed known for it's lack of hearing). 

Who's asking 'da questions here? Apparently you are. Just this time alone, I counted four questions and eight question marks!

 Special announcement: "Da Jossie's dating agains."

I wonder who'd want to date a pug that asks so many questions.

‪Fiona, as typed by Dr. Liz‬ asked...
thank you for the excellent advice. Hopefully now Mom will understand WHY I must smack Abby down, even if it results in her getting all muddy. I MUST remain Top Dog, no matter what it takes! (Yes, I am taking secret lessons from Queen Natasha - she just doesn't know it yet!) 

Now, my question for the week is: WHY must Mom and dad persist with this "home improvement" stuff? We are going to have to move into the House With Wheels while our House Without Wheels gets a new roof. I have to share a smaller space with the Hippobottomus! Why are Mom and Dad torturing me like this? (And why couldn't I have just remained an only child?) Thank you, All-Knowing, All-Seeing Karnak, uh, TVT!



*kissey face*


-Fiona and Abby the Hippobottomus

TVT: Instead of complaining, I'd count my blessings if I were you, dear goldendoodle. Your nutty pawrents could have easily opted for a race car. I bet the House on Wheels was a compromise for you and your Hippobottomus sister. As to why you didn't remain an only child, I bet you'll get the same answer we all do: your parents wanted you to have a little sister to play with. Yeah, sure, nice explanation! (Believe me, I feel your pain every day)

Admit it, your lifestyle would have been more cramped up in this.

While Fiona loves to yank her sister's collar, she's also a pawesome sister. Therefore, she asked me to mention that lil' Abby, aka Hippobottomus, is featured at fetchingtags.net wearing her blingy new tag, custom-made just for her. I mention the company A. Because I know we have some tag-freaks amongst us (show yourselves) B. Because according to Fiona the tags are not only well-made, lightweight, and visible, but the company donates a portion of each sale to dog rescue efforts, and C. Because Fiona has entered her sister in a contest. You can vote for Abby by clicking HERE. As of yesterday, our furiend is among the top three. Let's make sure she's number ONE.
Frankie the Brindle Chiweenie intruded again ...
When is National Dog Week?

TVT: Check the calendar! Fine, for the readers: National Dog Week this year (2010) is on September 19-25. Make a note of those dates because my personal belief is that during National Dog Week we all get extra dog treats, walks, hikes, trips to the dog spa, you name it. Three cheers for the upcoming National Dog Week!!!

Now, go do the right thing!

Twinkie Van Twinkerson

Fleas On Dogs | 'Tis The Season

Flea season usually starts in early spring and lasts through December depending on how warm the weather is. Fleas hatch more successfully in warm weather. If you're going to treat your yard, start as early as February. Most dog owners opt for treating their dog directly because it's easier and less costly, are they doing the right thing though? Lately flea control has been getting a bad rep and is considered a carcinogen, so dog owners are caught between a rock and a hard place, to medicate or not to medicate and what are the alternatives to commercial dog flea repellants? Fleas on dogs is an issue every dog owner has to face. 

Dogs love to roll on grass but so do fleas

FLEA CONTROL OPTIONS

1.Toxic Flea control

Insecticidal powders or shampoos

Spot on medication

Aerosol flea bombs

Impregnated flea collars

2. Flea Control Tablets

Those work by sterilizing the female fleas so that the eggs she lays are sterile and don't hatch. This method breaks the cycle of the flea right from the start. It is safer than toxic pesticide.

3. Natural Dog Flea Treatment Alternatives
The environmental choice that is the safest for all involved (discussed in detail below)

DOG FLEA TREATMENT SIDE EFFECTS

Nowadays with all new kinds of dog allergies present, flea control adds an extra burden often causing a reaction from mild irritation to full blown allergies, and it can even cause cancer and death. 

There is a plethora of dog flea prevention products on the market that make it hard to chose one that will not have an adverse effect on your dog. Until recently, it was believed that products available through your dog vet are safer than the ones sold "over the counter",  often sold in bulk, and of course cheaper.  This has all changed. We are now aware that toxic flea control can have devastating effects. Just a couple of days ago, a dog rescue owner was complaining about a midnight bath. He was explaining how he administered a spot-on flea product and two of his rescue dogs were making circles, rubbing themselves on the furniture, wheezing, and reverse coughing. He gave them a "midnight bath" so they could get rid of the poison and get a good night's rest. 

Spot-On Pesticides such as Zodiac, Bio Spot, and Frontline are presently considered to trigger adverse reactions in your pet. They can shorten life span and cause terminal illness and premature death. Studies have shown a correlation between Spot-On Pesticides and thyroid cancer (also believed to be a possible human carcinogen), loss of appetite, reduced fertility and heightened fetus mortality, liver, kidney, heart, lung, spleen, adrenal, and brain damage. The neurotoxins in those products can also cause headaches, eye and throat irritation, convulsions, barking, salivation, incoordination, tremors, increased dog aggression, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting… and the list goes on. It is long and scary. Itching, also known as pruitus, is the most commonly reported side effect. The message is clear: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stated that products intended to treat cats and dogs for fleas and ticks kill hundreds of pets each year and injure tens of thousands. They also stated their commitment to better protect the health and safety of pets and families. Are we poisoning the dog fleas or our dogs? 

Pruitus, the lesser of all evils

SAFER AND NEWER FLEA TREATMENT OPTIONS

Get rid of your old flea meds if they contain chemicals classified as "organophosphate insecticides," also known as OPs. They are considered to be harmful not only to your dog, but to your children and yourself. 

Alternatives to OP based meds are often available only through your dog vet. Some of these products are: Comfortis (oral), Capstar flea control (oral), Program (oral), Sentinel (oral), Promeris (oral), and Fronline (topical, applied to skin).  These products seem to cause fewer side effects but they do not guarantee that a dog suffering from allergies won't react badly to them. For example, the Capstar flea control remedy claims to start working within 30 minutes and a great safety profile as far as safety is concerned, yet, a quick search on the internet proves that this flea medication too can have it's share of allergic reactions. Speaking of the Capstar flea control remedy, it's main ingredient, Nitenpyram is a prescription drug and can only be obtained by prescription. 

NATURAL AND SAFE ALTERNATIVES

Herbal shampoos that contain bergamot, rosemary, citronella, juniper, geranium, eucalyptus, and lavender. Make sure you lather your dog's head too, so if there are fleas present, they don't simply migrate on his head to wait it out. Leave the suds on your dog for a few minutes so they work better. You can also rub your dog with basil, fennel, rosemary, or bicarbonate of soda and then simply brush out the residue. 

You can try adding a small amount of apple cider vinegar to your dog's water and sprinkle some garlic powder or Brewer's Yeast on his food.

For carpets, sprinkle Borax or Diatomaceous Earth for a minimum of half an hour (more effective if left overnight), and then vacuum. Keep the dog out of the room until you're done vacuuming. 

For your yard, I recommend you plant catnip and marigold (natural pesticides) in places your dog frequents. 

Use a flea comb, keep your pet clean, use flea repellants, like herbal flea powders and the natural flea reppelants mentioned above, in between baths. Maintain your dog's sleeping quarters clean and add some cedar chips to his bedding. Keep your dog as healthy as possible because healthier dogs do not draw fleas to them like ones with compromised immune systems. 

Bonus Dog Flea Management Light Trap

This isn't really a solution to a flea infested home, but it's a good indicator of whether or not you have fleas present. Take a shallow pan and fill it up to the rim with water and a bit of dish soap. Dawn is the dish soap of choice since it is considered safer for animals and lots of rescue organizations prefer it. Place the pan on top of a white cloth and shine a light on it while the rest of the house remains dark (feel free to leave it out overnight underneath a night light). Silly fleas are attracted to the light and dive like kamikazes into the concoction. The only problem is, fleas can't swim, and that's a good thing, in our case. 

What to do? Just the fact that you're reading this means you're a responsible dog owner who's getting educated. Now that you've done your research you are ready to make an educated decision based on your dog's and family's needs and limitations. Best of luck to all of us, especially our dogs who rely on us. 

Twinkie

Geriatric Dog and a Face Plant

I recently posted about the joys and perils of hiking with dogs and I stand by what I said, that all dogs love it and benefit greatly from dog hiking expeditions. But what do you do if one of your pack is a senior dog? Hmm, this is an issue that should be addressed, and hopefully it'll be of some assistance and consolation to owners of senior dogs when faced with the rapid health decline that affects their beloved canine.

Linguini (dalmatian and german shorthaired pointer mix), Hank and Sue (the rhodesian ridgeback duo) on a hike. The rhodies are only four years old whereas the dalmatian mix is almost eleven

Senior dogs should get regular exercise but not too vigorous. Hikes are great, but watch out for symptoms of fatigue which can hit your senior dog suddenly. Don't ever force geriatric dogs and don't push them any more than they can handle. With that in mind, let me share some pictures of our canine aging dog. 

The beginning of the hike is always exciting and our aging dog well rested

She gets to jump around and enjoy the smells, the fresh water, and the new surroundings

The joy any dog receives from a hike is like medicine, if you don't push them too far

Sometimes, regardless of the owner's good intentions, situations can arise that nobody is prepared for. In this instance, our Linguini, out of sheer joy decided to leap only five feet off a ledge, a situation she's managed easily until now. During our last hike we discovered that jumping from a distance is a thing of the past. As Linguini's front legs touched the ground, they buckled, either due to her arthritis or her dog tumors, and landed on her face.

She was temporarily immobilized because she was in shock

Poor girl, she just lied on her back and took a minute to process

Our hikes are far from over. We'll just have to be even more conservative, cut them short, and keep a better eye on our aging girl. She's doing as well as could be expected. Luckily, for now the term "mast cell tumors" is not part of our vocabulary, or so we like to think. Whatever the case may be, we're going to maintain a positive outlook and hope for the best. 

Caring for a senior dog is difficult, costly, scary at times, but incredibly rewarding. I wanted to end by saying that I not only support all kinds of dog rescue, I particularly appreciate and admire those who are willing to take in and provide a home for the very ill and the aging animals, the ones least likely to be placed.

Twinkie

Pit Bulls | Aggressive Dogs

We did get to go to the horse barn on Sunday too. We got up while it was still dark and M loaded us in the car. Frankie, the brindle chiweenie, sometimes jumps in on her own, when she's having a brave day. I always need a lift. Linguini, the dalmatian mix, is satisfied by getting the butt lift only.

As soon as we got to the barn, we saw Asha, the pitbull rescue. She's grown! I'll share my pitbull pictures and I'll talk to you about pit bull aggression and pitbull training.

I love Asha's tail

She's too perfect without the kink

This is Asha's sister, Chloe

A west highland white terrier

Another of the horse barn folks' rescue dogs

Notice the pit bull aggression? Not yet, huh? Wait

How about now?

Let me tell you what happened next. M started to summon Asha's parent to ask her to keep Asha from playing with Linguini. M was worried both about what the dog vet ordered and the fact that Linguini does not engage in play regularly. So, M stated, matter of fact, that Linguini does NOT play. Hmm, some other dog rescue parents overheard and one of them even corrected M. "Linguini is playing," the lady said. "No she's not, she never plays," M argued. "Your girl is playing," the lady insisted. M shrugged and backed off, holding her breath. Let's see some more pit bull aggression then. 

Oooh, that's scary!

It's scary from this side as well

I watched helplessly from the sidelines as the pitbull attack began

OMD these two are two aggressive dogs

Must be the pit bull's fault

Hmm, maybe the lady was right about Linguini playing

But aren't pit bulls the most aggressive dogs on earth?

So far, I can only prove they're professional sniffers

Maybe they got their reputation from being aggressive sniffers

Asha's sniffing, aka making friends, with Holly, the blue heeler

Beware of the upcoming pit bull attack!

Beware, happy pit bull on your rear!

Exasperated Linguini: "Move it, kids. Asha and I are playing."

Careful, what's this human peanut doing playing with aggressive dogs?

Where is her parent? Hasn't she heard of pitbull aggression?

I'm sorry, when faced with extreme stupidity and lack of information, I turn a bit facetious. I feel the need to make flippant remarks to try and grab people's attention. Boneheaded pit bull aggression myths, dismissed. All you responsible pit bull owners and lovers need to do is work on your pitbull training as early as possible and be consistent like with any other breed. The only extra thing you need to worry about with your pit bull is the burden of society. 

Our demo pit bull, Asha, has been in training for a couple of short months. She's now the ideal companion you can take anywhere. She's friendly with dogs and humans alike. She loves children and she even likes (puts up) with little dogs. Asha is a role model!

As for Linguini, we know she wasn't supposed to play due to her condition. She was a bit sore after yesterday, but she also had a big smile on her face all day long. We hope that her mental health along with the Rimadyl will contribute to her physical health. 

Adopt a dog and feel free to make it a pit bull. They're as nice as the rest of us. It's up to you.

All responsible dog owners, should carefully go over the different dog breeds, before deciding on the best match that will benefit both the parent and the dog. What's the best dog for you?

Twinkie

Linguini's Recession Small Dog Bed

We're all affected by the recession. With foreclosures on the rise and peoples losing their homes, dog rescue and animal rescue organizations across the country believe us furiends to be the newest victim. Duh! Linguini has taken all this to heart. She's got all the dog food  (kibble) she needs and a roof over her head. She now wishes to make a statement.

She decided to give up this:

a deluxe large dog bed

In exchange for that:

a ratty small dog bed

What on earth? Our Linguini always has her own approach to life. She's unique, as Momma says while shaking her head. Designer dog beds aren't her style! BOL

Linguini's take on the recession and a message from her:
I have empathy for the economy and I prefer my small dog bed

Just for giggles

There, I even gave you a sneak peek of your Frankie. We're all doing the best we can, but we must also maintain a good sense of humor.

Twink!

Dog Rescue Mission

In Between Storms



It's been raining for days and our home is almost at war. Us canines are on each other's case and then there's the felines too, getting on our nerves as well. We've got cabin fever. We went on our own dog rescue mission, the goal was the save ourselves from boredom, stiff joints, and weight gain.

As soon as there was a break in the weather, mommy got us ready and off we went to visit the newly formed rivers.

Frankie, the chiweenie, got stuck in the middle of a stream, I, the tiny tea cup chihuahua, got distracted and left behind for over 30 seconds, Linguini, the largest and heaviest of the pack, a dalmatian and german shorthaired pointer mix, got stuck in the mud, multiple times, and momma started sniffling. It was cold, wet, and very muddy. Oh, and by the time we started heading back, Linguini and Frankie, the "brave" ones (the one's who got their feet wet in the freezing water) both had the runs. BOL! They're all gonna be fine. I'm only worried about my tiny nose, because they're tooting non-stop.

I'm the only one awake at the moment. Frankie and Linguini are sleeping by the side of our mom's desk, dreaming of our next hike, snoring and tooting. Dog rescue mission accomplished! What a great day!

Oh, I almost forgot. I posted a really short video of our hike.

Twink!

Mastiff Sums It Up

This Sums It Up

Jude, the mastiff, digesting

Ugh, my tummy's so full still, it hurts. I don't believe I've ever eaten so much. I think Jude, a dog rescue, may have eaten more. What do you think? 

Twink!

Dog Rescue | Cat Rescue | Post Thanksgiving Meal Preview

Bobbie Zzz

Street kitty

Linguini pozzzez

Dalmatian and German Shorthaired Pointer

Zzzzet!

Street kitty

Zzzze the and only Max

Maine coon

Me, being lazzzzzzy

tea cup chihuahua

Twinkie: Hey, what are you doing here?

Bird: We're hiding, in case we're mistaken for turkeys!

Twinkie: You are a finch, kk?

No comment

Chiweenie moment

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Twinkie

Blue Heeler | Madi

Inspired by my blog buddies at gustheblueheeler.blogspot.com, I feel the urge to talk to you about one of my blue heeler friends. My beloved friend Maddie! She's approximately ten years old, you're never certain about such things with rescues, and she's a horse dog. Ha ha, you're wondering what I mean by that. Her mom is a horse trainer which means that Maddie is constantly around horses, therefore, she's a horse show dog. At our barn, where she spends the majority of her day, she is surrounded by other dogs and horses. During horse shows, Maddie's always around, always off leash (and we all get very offended on the rare occasions we're asked to put her on a leash), and always near her mama. A leash is not part of Maddie's vocabulary and that's a fact. She's the perrrfect heeler. She knows her place and she never bothers anybody. Everybody in the horse world knows her too, by name.

Maddie's mom is my human sister's horse trainer. She's a rescue-mama. Her pack ranges between 5-10 dogs at any given time. I won't even mention the horses and cats she's saved. Maddie accepts everybody her mom brings home. She immediately informs them about who is the boss, yes she's Alpha, and then she proceeds to gently guard and protect them. Like all perfect dogs, Maddie, the blue heeler, sometimes gets into mischief too. I really like it when she joins us in being rascally!

What are you doing on top of the trash cans, Maddie?

Maddie's tummy is full of dog tumors, like many geriatric dogs including my sister Linguini, the Dalmatian German Shorthaired Pointer Mix but she's doing really well. She's never been a playful dog, but she sure can get around. Just like the rest of us, just let her be near her mom. A simple look from her mom makes Maddie happy. She's the sweetest, kindest dog I have ever met. Mom took a picture of Maddie being playful for a change.

Maddie, the blue heeler, playing with one of her brothers, Boomer, the Chihuahua

Three woofs for Maddie! May you live a long happy life for years to come, my friend.

Twink!

Children Books

I was thinking about telling you about our family cat-astrophe (you see I have to live with three crazy cats) but I realized the holidays are approaching and you may be looking for that special gift. Get my book! Twinkie, the Tiniest Dog in the World. You won't fail. Even though it's a children's read-along photo story book, I've discovered that people of all ages enjoy it the same.

Children books should be fun but with substance. Mine is simple and funny yet important. It's an inspirational story of overcoming and living with a handicap, but my main message is: Life is good. It is also a parable to assist in the raising of  "difficult" little ones who aren't the best listeners. Twinkie, the book, will have those challenging children at least thinking about listening to their parents and authority figures, such as doctors.

So come on, don't you care to read about my tea cup Chihuahua life and my family? I promise to do my best to introduce every single family member and close friend through my blog, but aren't you curious to find out what preceded? Don't you want to read about hikes, adventures...

...my permanently busted lil' leg?

To simplify this process, even though there's tons of information on my website. Feel free to read my reviews. I'm proud of them.

Twink!