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I have been having a rough couple days. My Fibromyalgia is flared up big time, so I'm hurting more than normal and it drives me nuts. However, I noticed that one thing that makes me happier and distracts me from my pain, is the unconditional love I get from my pets. Just when I'm about to cry or dwell on my pain, my cat will do something funny or my dog will demand my attention. Whether they want to be brushed, fed or just want some attention, they seem to know when I need to be cheered up. Today my Quaker parrot kept making kissing noises and it's hard not to smile when you hear a little parrot in all her glory, squeaking and talking away. Then I went to lay down and started thinking about my pain again, and my cat came over purring and I started to pet her and watch TV. Slowly I stopped thinking about how much I was hurting and started focusing on my cat and how much she enhances my life. Next thing you know, my dog is nudging my hand to pet her. Does your dog do that? My dog will push my hand up in her attempt to make me pet her and I always think how clever she is, because I certainly did not teach her that! Where did she learn that? What other little tricks does she have up her sleeve, or paw? So, between the squawking parrot, the calming affects of my cat purring and the overzealous dog who can't get enough attention, it took up a lot of my time and it got me to stop focusing on how much I was hurting. I have read that owning a pet can help reduce stress, help to lower blood pressure and can even stave off loneliness. I have also heard that owning a pet helps enhance your mood, can encourage you to become more social and can also contribute to getting you out of the house and exercising. Does your spouse even do all that for you? Probably not! I personally know that my pets do all these things for me and they proved it today. Perhaps the greatest gift of all, is the unconditional love they give us. So, today you should give your furry, feathered or reptillian friend an extra treat and a big kiss. They just might be saving your life........
Did you know that having a pet is good for your health?
Live Poll
Do you think your pets are beneficial to your health?
- Enjoy this article? Help vote it up the 'Vine.
- Public Discussion (216)
CoH please. :)
- 3 votes
To Jersey Girl
Sorry to hear that you have Fibromyalgia I know what a true pain that can be. As for the animals, I do not know if you know it or if it has already been mentioned but for nearly a decade or so, dogs and cats have been allowed into hospitals especially for children and elderly patients as part of the treatment.
For the reasons you described, they can take the patients mind off of their conditions and lift their spirits, and there are several groups who actually train animals for this purpose. Also in the last 5 to 10 years it has been learned that dolphins and porpoises, have healing abilities in regards to autism and other such disabilities.
Some of the Aquariams in the country noticed that performing Dolphins and Porpoises would actually break from their performances and focus upon a Children with Autism and other such disorders and play with them. Someone finally did a study on it and they found that the children improved in their disabilities during this interaction.
It is believed that the echo sounding that the dolphins and porpoises use for navigation and hunting actually had a healing effect on the children. Children that were inactive, and unresponsive to outside stimuli became more aware and active after several of these sessions.
Just some trivia I have picked up over the years. May your God bless and be with you in your times of need, and place his healing hand upon you, or if your an Atheists may the natural order of things bring comfort to you, and may your pets bring you peace and well being.
- 3 votes
Jerseygirl1978
there are several different animals that are used for therapy. I know a lady here in Oregon that takes her goats to hospitals and nursing homes.
- 2 votes
Hey, hey, hey, JerseyGirl, sorry it took so long for me to swing by and leave a reply. Truly enjoyed your article. It deserves a lot of votes and replies.
MarkLHolland, I'm sure you've heard the old saying, "you can judge a man's intelligence by the size of his hat," and I'm sure you know this old saying has been disproved. However, fairly recent research indicates that you can measure intelligence by the size of the cortex in proportion to the brain. These wonderful creatures, dolphins and porpoises, have a much larger cortex and brain proportion than man. Love your reply, very interesting to me.
Arkpdx, never herd of goats!!! Check my spelling!!! This is fun to know . . . the use of goats. Thanks!
- 1 vote
I am sorry you are in pain Jersey.... My mother has RA... so I see that every day. Someone I worked with ( sort of ) has Fibro....
Pets are a blessing... accept when you have to clean their mess... Oh well.
I have a cat with asthma, her name is Wheezy. She makes me crazy when I look at her she is crosseyed and has her tongue hanging out of her mouth.
- 2 votes
Hey Jersey. Sorry to hear about you health and I'm glad you have a pet. There is nothing like them in the world.
I however, only have fish.
- 3 votes
We have a lot of spinner dolphins here and they are so much fun to watch. During the whale migration they will try to divert a boat from getting close to the whales. It is wonderful watching both the dolphins and whales frolicking across the ocean.
- 2 votes
Mom is fine. She is on many medications. She can not stand for long periods of time. She just made herself breakfast. I will try to get one of Wheezy. I am changing my avatar to Shadow... she is sitting next to me scarfing up as much of the electric heater as she can.
- 1 vote
Yup... mine knows when it is on in my room behind closed doors and she loves to dig at my door begging to be let in... ya know I do.
- 1 vote
Ok I finally have a pic of Wheezy.... she was sunning herself this morning....
She is tinny and 16 years old. We did not think she would live past 2 months.
The pic is on my avatar. Shadow is curled up next to her.
- 1 vote
Dogs have owners, cats have staff.
Basset hounds have their ever loving loyal slaves.
- 1 vote
I would love to send you shave ice!
I do have some wonderful creatures to admire here on the island. I saw a mongoose this morning and suspect we'll see babies following her soon. I love the lizards and geckos also. There are birds here that are simply amazing. The Mynah birds are silly and imitate other bird's songs and sounds. We had one here for about a year that would call out, "Bitchy Bitchy Bitchy" cracking us up. There was another that had memorized nearly ever birdcall and a couple of dog's barks and a meow. It would sit in a tree and recite it over and over again. Yep it's a good life.
The shave ice here is as big as your head. The first time I saw one on this island I was taken aback and could only thing "brain freeze". My kids love them too so I snag bits off of theirs.
- 1 vote
I have no doubt that what you are saying about animals is true. My little schnauzer is the most loveable, hugable dog in the world. He can immediately make me smile and feel good just because of his enthusiasm of seeing me after a few hours. I'll pick him up and he puts his paws around my neck and snuggles right in. I find a lot of comfort in just holding him and petting him.
I'm sorry to hear about the fibromyalgia flare up. I wish for you to have relief of the pain so you can feel good again. :)
- 1 vote
My first grandpuppy was a miniature schnauzer. When my first grandchild was born I greeted the dog first then the baby and the same with the second child. It was hold the pup wash hands hold the babies. When the children got older and I'd visit they'd all greet me at once saying this and that. The pup would sit on her haunches and "Woowoowoowoo" along with their chattering. As soon as I put my stuff down (right where I stood in the entryway) we would have a group hug. She'd stay at our house and sleep with me and weighed on 7 pounds but a couple of times I nearly feel out of bed as when I rolled over she'd move right up against me until she had all of the bed and I was on the edge. We had such a happy life together.
- 1 vote
Thanks Jerseygirl I enjoy helping people feel good. Of course my grandpuppy was first born and I felt that it was best to greet in order of birth. When my grandson was born my youngest daughter and I would leave from school to go out and hang with my oldest daughter and her two little ones. Her daughter was not quite 3 when her brother was born. We'd play with her bathe her and put her to bed. Before we left for home I would hold the newborn then off we'd go. My oldest and youngest are 16 years apart so my youngest was only 7 when my granddaughter was born. It has been so wonderful as we really never ran out of babies and between them and all the pets we were set for a great time.
- 1 vote
Yeppers I miss having an animal at the moment, my Siberian Husky passed away (16 years old) and having a animal is such a neat feeling.
- 3 votes
I went a couple of years without my daughter's cat around. He is here now and I can't believe how much more fun life is with the little nag.
To Tedd Riggs
My sypathy, My Siberian hustky was a treat I went a way to boot camp and artillary training and when I got back it was like I had never left. He and my cat Goldy were the two closes life forms to me that I could ever think of having.
- 1 vote
I'll bet they were so happy to see you Mark. When I went to Portland to move my daughter to the island the three neighborhood feral cats planted themselves on my doorstep and stayed until we left. They had three of four neighbors feeding them but I'd been their favorite I guess. I was honored. My daughter's cat is all over me and we'd been apart a year and a half. It was as if I'd never left. Now he's here and all is well.
- 1 vote
I just wonder at how special it is that people who might be separated by thoughts and beliefs might be united by their love for their animals. I thank you all, and give thanks to you all for the love of your personal pets. Righties, Lefties or in betweens. Truly the love of an animal is the greatest of loves that one can feel
- 1 vote
Well Mark if my mom was alive today she might question you. After all she had to put up with my frogs snakes salamanders baby chickens geese ducks and whatever I could find to drag into the house. We also had a couple of dogs and cats in residence. I guess this is why all the furniture was covered in plastic.
To JS
Unless your mother questioned the destruction of these animals I do not see where we would disagree. Now my thoughts upon human life and conditions I can see heated arguments over, I would believe that your mother would respect me if not my thoughts.
As for your pets, if your mom did not put her foot down before you had them then I would assume your mom loved you more then then she dislike your pets. This is what kills most parents they love their daughters more then they despise their boy friends.
- 1 vote
Well there was nagging involved but it was so hard for me to reject any creature so there you go. I did evolve to understand that most creatures are most happy in their own habitat and left well enough alone except for frequent visits and fondling. I had the absolute best of life living in nature growing vegetables fruits nuts (me) and plenty of animals. My dad told us, "A pet is a pet until dinner time" and we learned this was the circle of life.
To
. My dad told us, "A pet is a pet until dinner time" and we learned this was the circle of life
I am cold blooded in my beliefs, all that die go to a better place, and those that die faster get there faster. but for a child to claim a animal as a pet . I consider all death as the same we all go on to the same maker. But to tell a child that her/his pet is nothing more then the next meal time. seems wrong to me.
I was raised in a city with dogs and cats that lived and died by the natural order. Some sooner then we might have wished. And I can see surcomstancies in which a pet could be your next meal. But to tell a child that his/her pet may be their next meal without the end of the world coming in the next 24hres is just to much for me.
If Dec 21 2012 was to occurr, I would rethink my morales, about eating animals and people. If Dec 21 2012 occurred cats dogs, deer and another other animal would become fair game and I could easily envision having humans for super.
Buy this would only occur if the Mc Donald's and other fast food joints no longer existed. Granted in a end of civilization event occurred I would survive at all costs. but it is only in these end of times scenarios that I would even consider the things.
Would I consider eating my moms two cats under normal conditions of course not, would I eat my moms two cats and my mother under the most extreme condition of course. When one is dealing with survival one is dealing with survival.
- 1 vote
Mark let me qualify this. We raised animals for food. My dad wanted to make it clear that food animals could be loved and nurtured and cared for but when the time came they would grace our table. We understood this and had no problem accepting the terms. I was continually making pets of the chickens pigs cows calves geese turkeys and other table offerings. This was actually a good lesson. My dad let us have all the cats that people dumped on our land. He'd neuter all the males and hope none slipped through before this to give us more kittens...this did not always work. He liked the cats as they kept the population of mice and rats down and explained to me as a very young person that cats eat the mice I love so well but they did this as it was part of their food source.
It's amazing how much animals can sense your moods and feelings. I'm grateful for the pets that I have. =^_^=
- 9 votes
#2 - Thu Nov 4, 2010 7:21 PM EDTI must be the healthiest guy in town. Two dogs, three cats, 2 snakes and a rabbit.
- 2 votes
Good job Mongowildman unless your dogs cats and rabbit are snake food!
- 2 votes
They are little snakes. One dog is 110# German Shepard. Too big to eat.
- 2 votes
Ha ha what a relief. I do love German Shepards even when they are full grown and think they can still sit on my lap.
- 1 vote
To Jersey Girl
Actually in my family German Shepard's were the most common breed that we had, the problem with German Shepard's is that they tend to be prone to a disease of the hind quarters that disables them and then kills them. We lost several beautiful dogs this way.
One of the best dogs we ever had was a cross bread between a female white German Shepard and a Somoyian Husky. The best of the pups, weighed about 150 lbs, had light body hair like a Shepard but had very thick hair like a husky around the throat like a male lion, was highly protective of the family, but my brothers wife a little Hispanic girl could raise her voice to it and it would back itself into a corner hunch down and click it's jaws together as if it was facing a 15 foot tall monster.
If it was not for the disease, I would consider German Shepard's to be the greatest bread of dogs to ever exist. Now my Samoyian husky, called North was a fantastic dog that I loved dearly, other then a penchant for digging holes he was my most beloved pet other then a cat called Goldy.
- 1 vote
My daughter and family purchased their German Shepherd from KRAFTWERK K9 INC in Washington State. He is so beautiful and really funny. We all got to go help pick him out and that breeder is pristine. I was truly impressed. I still go to the site to see the new puppies. We were licked thoroughly that day and it was divine. Puppy breath and laughter.
Puppy breath makes me laugh until tears formed. Puppies are so cute and wiggly there is no resisting them. When my second schnauzer grandpuppy came along I was taking care of the two grandchildren for a few days while mom and dad took a break. An old friend came over with her two little dogs and they played and played. At dinnertime I was sitting with the children and the puppy came dragging her blanket over by me and crashed on my foot. I put the children and the rabbits to bed picked up the pup to put her outside to piddle and she was just too tired so I had to hold her up to do her business. It was so sweet. I discovered that even puppy play dates can be exhausting.
So...I should keep my Daisy and ditch the hubby? lol!
I love my girl. She's 10 - have had her since she was 4 mos. I love her so much, it's crazy! She has saved my life and I can't imagine where I would be today had she not been with me.
((((((((((((jersey)))))))))))))))
- 3 votes
#3 - Thu Nov 4, 2010 7:24 PM EDTBoth of you are giving me such a good laugh . . . so, ditch the "hubby" and all the boyfriends! Animals cost a lot less to feed than a human! Well, maybe not the larger ones.
- 2 votes
If you want to know if someone is trustworthy just consult and animal or a child.
- 2 votes
I always tell every body I meet that they should not trust anyone their dog doesn't like.
I have also seen a t-shirt that says
" If my dog doesn't like you I won't either"
I'm thinking about buying it.
Always been one of my rules of thumb. Also I don't trust someone a lot if they don't have any books in their house.
I have found the same Jerseygirl. In fact I don't remember one case where it wasn't true that a person that does not like animals isn't more than a little strange. They usually lack compassion and are not passionate about life two very important characteristics of a happy human.
- 1 vote
Of course I knew having a pet is good for my health - why my tiny "Chi" tells me this all the time, while she lounges on my brand new down pillow with a 600 thread count case on it...ugh.
Ya, she is spoiled....and I did it to her ha ha ha ha.... but - she was a gift to me after a serious riding accident laid me up in bed for months. So small and very smart she was able to be on the bed 24/7 while I healed and couldn't move, now I wouldn't be without her.
- 6 votes
#4 - Thu Nov 4, 2010 7:32 PM EDTI'm so glad that you have your pets to comfort you Jerseygirl!
"You like animals more than people, don't you?" What do you suppose my answer was? Lol! ;)
I know what my answer would have been, Yes!!!
- 6 votes
#5 - Thu Nov 4, 2010 7:34 PM EDTI wish my love for my dog would make him smell better!!!!!
I guess that's where real love lies. He stinks, makes everything around here stink...and I love him anyway...
- 5 votes
#6 - Thu Nov 4, 2010 8:01 PM EDTha ha ha that made me laugh !!!!
My little Chi on occasion would smell like corn chips!! just like Fritos (yummy) - of course I had to look that up.....they say it was because of the corn meal in the Eukanuba.
- 5 votes
Hey, hey, hey, would love to hear from each of you. What's up with my chihuahua. Ever since being a baby (that's a pup) he has never had a bad breath . . . no matter what he eats. Throughout the years many people (humans) have remarked how fresh his breath is, always.
- 2 votes
I wonder when we'll get some men on here. You know they love their canine (and feline) sidekicks, but will they get mushy and talk about it?? ;)
- 3 votes
#7 - Thu Nov 4, 2010 9:30 PM EDTMy daughter and her 15-year-old cat moved in with us a couple of months ago. My guy likes animals but he is way fussy and sometimes I want to punch him. One of the first nights the cat was here my guy left his plate on the table and kitty got up on the chair to investigate. My guy made an obnoxiously loud noise and scared the cat and I chewed him out big time. My guy was all uppity that the cat had not been properly trained and I basically rolled my eyes. The two of them have an understanding but I try to keep my grandkitty away from him when he sits down to a meal and we aren't there. The other night my guy was eating something our little buddy lusted to taste so I took him outside on the lanai to wait until "grandpa" was finished with his meal and saved a bite for the cat. We were outside and the cat tried so hard to amuse himself while waiting. He'd go to the door and meow to go in and I would tell it wasn't time please come for a pet and he would come over get a pet then proceed to the other door where he could check the progress of the meal. The first time he looked in the screen and saw my guy mauing away he made and grumpy little noise and walked right back to the other door pawed it and murred to be let in. We did this several times and I began laughing due to the fact that he'd almost get to the door where he could see my guy fuzz up and run the other way with his ears back. When it was finally time for his snack he was one relieved kitty. I am so happy to have him back in my life after nearly three years. He really nags me and does so many funny tricks he keeps me laughing.
I love animals as they are usually much more fun than humans.
I hope you are feeling better Jerseygirl and so happy you have your buddies to soothe you and amuse you.
- 3 votes
I've never had a pet I didn't adore and the more they hung around the more human they became and the more animalistic I became. Fur people rock! Thanks for the opportunity to share Jerserygirl!
- 3 votes
april-1023405
My little Chi on occasion would smell like corn chips!! just like Fritos
I don't know what Chi is (I suspect a Chihuahau) but if this is frequent you might want to check ears and feet for yeast infection.
Jerseygirl1978
I am a guy and I am the slave to three Basset Hounds. All three are rescues and I help with transportation fort he local Basset rescue in my state. My guys, actually two boys and a girl, are the best friends aguy could want. They are loyal(unless someone has better treats) and loving. The look at me with those eyes that say " Gee, manslave; you really are the greatest in the world. how can you not love an animal that sends those kind of vibes.
I also get a little msshy about the dogs. I read a daily news letter about Bassets and when ever one goes to the Rainbow Bridge, I sit and read about them and get all leaky. So yeah there are some of us guys, most if truth be known that do get emotional about our pets.
Hey, my Basset group says that Basset hound drool ,which there is never a shortage of, has magical healing powers. If ever you should need some let me know and it will be on its way in a less than two shakes of a hounds tail.
"Lord, let me me the kind of man my dog thinks I am"
- 3 votes
#8 - Thu Nov 4, 2010 10:35 PM EDTJerseygirl1978
One barrel of virtual drool headed you way. In fact virtual drool all around.I'm buying.
- 2 votes
We had an animal for about 14 years and then she got sick with something, went blind and could no longer stand up so we had to put her down. Now there is a 15 or 16 year old cat wandering around here looking for Gail a lot.
I can't call Sassy a dog because she was a wolf hybrid and really a failure as a dog. She was a good companion and well mannered. Probably a little too smart. She was very food responsive when following commands or some such but if there wasn't anything involved for her, she was very selective about what she felt like doing. If she got out of the yard or we let her out when we we were going for a walk, Sassy was basically on her own because we didn't even exist as far as she was concerned. She did pretty good as long as we kept an eye on her, but turn your back for a second, and she was gone. she blended in with the sage brush quite well. We missed her and now I still miss her. Maybe she is keeping Gail company now.
Gail wanted me to get a dog after she left. I have been considering it and this article will probably motivate me more. I have no experience to speak of with a real dog and I really haven't decided on what kind yet. One factor to consider is that at some point in the not too distant future I plan on being sort of a nomad for awhile in a pick up with camper or possibly a small trailer behind a small pickup. That may not happen, but it is still very much on the table.
Anybody have any suggestions and if so why?
- 2 votes
#9 - Thu Nov 4, 2010 10:46 PM EDTAtsidi, I think JerseyGirl, gave outstanding suggestions. One thing you might keep in mind is that a smaller dog leaves a smaller waste. Do you follow? And think how your new friend will adjust to your living conditions at home as well as on the road. Good luck.
- 2 votes
Have thought much about a smaller dog because all I really need is a good burglar alarm to wake me up or to let me know someone is in the area. If I do wind up staying here, I can always get a bigger dog later to watch the place and back up their bark if I happen to be in town or somewhere.
- 2 votes
Wonderful thinking Atsidi. My little chihuahua will always bark. He sleeps by my feet and is a great burglar alarm. However, after he barks he gives me odd look, like he's saying "I'm not leaving this bed." :)
- 2 votes
I have found that small dogs are hilariously communicative and so silly I cannot resist them. My guy and I dog sat two Pomeranians and we had such a good time with them. They had all kinds of signals and antics that made us laugh. I liked how they bonded to me right away and showed me what was up in their world. I especially liked it when they would fool around outside and if I yelled, "Do your business" they would and race back to the house. The other thing is when we were out to play and I'd have enough I could say "happy hips" they were all mine. It was even humorous when they wanted me to get up earlier than I thought warranted and would snort and woof and make funny sounds. They would really put up a fuss if someone came to the door but would settle right down when they knew it was ok. I also thought their complete jubilance in greeting us was divine.
- 2 votes
Atsidi
I don't know how log your pets have been gone, well they aren't really gone you carry their memory in your heart for ever. Here is a little poem than may bring some comfort
http://www.petloss.com/poems/maingrp/rainbowb.htm
As far as what type of dog to get i really can't tell you. that is a real personal desision. If fact I don't think we choose our pets they choose us. I do recommend that once you do get a breed do some good research on it and make sure you know its needs. After that please try and go to a rescue shelter either a generic or breed specific and get an older dog rather than a puppy. While puppies are cute they can be a handful especially if you are on the road. Rescue dogs tend to be somewhat trained and you can get some idea of the dogs temperment. If you do decide to get a puppy do yor best to avoid petshop animals they usually come from puppy mills who are the scurge and slime of the earth. Beware of backyard breeders bexause hile they usually mean well they don't always have the best interest of the dogs of the breed at heart. Find a reputable breeder and visit before you purchase if at all possible. You may pay a little more but you will gt a better animal.
- 1 vote
Assuming I get a dog, It will likely be from the shelter in Twin Falls. Gail and I went in there a couple of times thinking about another dog. Really a hard place. Those dogs know where they are and you might be their last chance.
- 2 votes
Look in petfinders.com. You can see pictures of the dogs and sometimes get a little history too.
If you think about a specific breed and you aren't too sure look into fostering a dog for a bit. Normally you will need to pay to feed the dog but most of the vet bil the rescue takes care of.
- 1 vote
Your welcom Jersygirl. The only problem is I get leaky every time I read it and dang it I'm a guy and I'm not supposed to gt leaky.
There is another version that adds a part for people that support rescues but I am having trouble locating it.
- 1 vote
There is another version that adds a part for people that support rescues but I am having trouble locating it.
I found what I was looking for. The lonk os below. I get leaky with this story too dang it. I guess I just care too much. I sure hope that when the time comes I will be one to take the dogs that were denied access to the bridge across And I f I am I am going to punch that angel right in the nose for being so cruel to these noble and deserving animals
- 1 vote
OOP for got to put it in.
http://www.ilcockerrescue.org/poem-rainbow.htm
I got all three dogs around me know and they are getting extra hugs right now.
That is beautiful.
I have a odd/but funny story.
I have a looping eared rabbit and a little Yorkie.
Rabbits name is bugs, and the Yorkie is sissy. The rabbit is a indoor rabbit uses a little box. Bugs and Sissy get along real well. They play like best buds.
Sissy a girl, Bugs a boy. I caught Bugs riding sissy. I had to separate them hoping this would help, a day or so later dope back at it. Don't know what to do.
I know he wouldn't be able to breed her.
I have little kids around all the time and really don't want them to watch this.
They seem to get depressed and sad when separated.
Any advice?
I was thinking of maybe putting something that a rabbit doesn't like to smell on her bottom but can't think of anything that wouldn't make sissy not smell bad or harm her or bugs.
Told you this was odd.
- 2 votes
What you you think though. Will I be able to cross the bridge with the animals after I deck the angel that wouldn't let them cross?
Bewildered511
If they do mate can I have dibbs on one of the youngun"s?
- 1 vote
Sure why not. I need to get one of those photo shop programs to try and put a picture to mind.
I couldn't image what would evolve from this combination.
- 1 vote
Bewildered my friend's bunny was always humping the dog and the dog was really big. This looked awkward but neither seemed to mind.
My mom had a really fat and spoiled Rat Terrier. When Mom would get mad at her she'd send the dog to her bed. The dog would take a few steps and have to be told again to go to bed and this went on over and over until the dog reached her destination…she'd look back at my mom look at her blanket and hump it. My mom would go bonkers but the we kids thought it was hilarious.
- 2 votes
I know sissy turns her bottom to bugs. I think sissy thinks bugs is a dog and bugs thinks sissy is a rabbit.
- 2 votes
I was raised on a farm as spent most of my time with the animals and critters in the canyon and creek. They all had habits that might make someone twitchy but when you begin observing behaviors at the ripe old age of 4 it is all part of nature. So, Jerseygirl, if it feels good let them do it! I agree.
Bewildered511111111111111, OMG! ;) ;) still laughing so very hard. Can I borrow your rabbit for my dog (my chihuahua dog that is)? Your rabbit must be very special. he he he How old are the kids? If 10 or over don't worry, if 8 or 9 it shouldn't hurt, younger than 8 make up some funny story . . . good luck!
he he he
- 2 votes
Well I do a lot of babysitting, So I watch all ages. I don't use my garage for my car so when the little one's are here I will be putting the rabbit in there for the few hours the kids are here. They only started this maybe a month ago. I know rabbit like it a lot. My sister made me laugh by saying well when he falls over on his side he is done. Meaning he had his fill.
I have had bugs for a bout three months. I got him from this lady that was going to give him to a guy who was going to feed bugs to his boa. I'm sorry you don't give something a name and then use it for feeding purposes. IMO
Glad you enjoyed.
- 1 vote
jersygirl
Here's another story about picking a puppy that was sent to the Daily Drool
http://lists.dailydrool.org/htdig.cgi/dailydrool-dailydrool.org/2008-December/012321.html
let me know If it does work I copy and paste the whole thing. it is a little long.
jersygirl
just wondered if you were able get the little story above?
So, I'll let everybody know what I wound up with. I do need some company around here.
- 1 vote
#11 - Fri Nov 5, 2010 12:25 AM EDTHey Jgirl! You know I love my furballs! My 17 year old cat has recently taken to giving me head nudges when I play video games. I sit back on the couch and he climbs up on the back, walks over and just starts rubbing his head against mine. Of course I have to rub just as hard back. Then he starts purring his little heart out and I can't help but smile and that couldn't possibly be anything but good, right? I sure will miss that little love whore when he goes!
- 1 vote
but didn't know your cat was 17
Yup, he's a few months older than my son so I guess he's the real first-born! :)
I pray I get another 8-10 years with her. You never know, it could happen?!
It could! I had a cat who made it to 20. She was the mellow type for sure.
Glad to see you stopped by. *Hugs* =^-^=
Always a pleasure! I LOVE that kitty face! I can't believe I've never seen that before! :)
- 1 vote
Maybe a parrot or a cockatoo, some of them live over 100 years.
- 1 vote
Maybe a parrot or a cockatoo, some of them live over 100 years.
Seriously? Then I'd be worried about what happened to them after I died! Would someone care for and love them properly?
Also glad to see you on the vine again, POaks. Missed ya. :)
Missed you too Jgirl. I'm usually around even if you don't see me comment. My usual modus operandi is to copy and paste articles I find interesting into a Word document so I can read them offline since most of my vine time is at work (I know, bad, bad girl!). Then I might get busy and can't read for some time. Then by the time I'm caught up with everything it's a week or so later and it feels silly to comment. Anyway, I'm caught up now but I'm sure I'll fall behind again quite soon! :) Point is, even if you can't "see" me, I'm watching! :)
- 1 vote
When my daughters 15 year old cat thinks we aren't paying enough attention to him he'll get on the back of the couch and whip his tail around and bonk us on the head with it or wrap it around our necks. His tail has a knot at the end so he has a weapon. If he is mad at us he'll bite our hair and shake his head and that hurts.
- 1 vote
He came with a kink not so much as a knot...sorry...and this is why my daughter picked him. He is also what she calls "A Peach Colored Kitty".
We had a couple of rabbits and my son videotaped "Vampire Bunny" and my daughter would dress the bunny up in doll clothes and roll her around in a doll stroller. My oldest daughter adopted two rabbits and we always had such a lot of laughter when they were around.
My son brought home a solid black kitten and wanted to keep her. I could tell right away that she had brain damage but she was fine other than that. I sat the kids down and told them what needed to be done to care for her and also that she might not last long. She had what I called "independent rear suspension" and when she ran her rear end would not cooperate at times. We had a Persian cat and a tabby cat at the time both females. Those two older cats were so protective and cuddly with this kitten. The cat made it to 9 months when she had seizures and was blind and other unfortunate conditions. My son and I took her to be euthanized and the vet told us that she had been given the best of care so my son (age 13) was very proud that he had given her a chance to enjoy the life she had. We adored this kitten and she was so sweet it was hard to let her go.
- 1 vote
I have always been amazed at how tolerant an animal is with a child. Good grief every cat rabbit and hamster had to dress up for my daughter and it was always hilarious and the animals took it in stride.
- 1 vote
Jerseygirl you are ablolutely right. One week ago today, a long time friend and colleague killed himself. I have spent the last week in grief, confusion, and guilt and my one year old dachshund has been my only solace. He sits in my lap looking at me with his big dark eyes and I know he understands. My little puppy has been more of a comfort to me than anything or anyone else and I am so greatful to have him.
- 2 votes
#13 - Fri Nov 5, 2010 9:59 PM EDTSavickConn I am so sorry to hear you lost your friend but comforted knowing your little buddy is there for you in your time of need.
- 2 votes
SavickConn
Sending a virtual barrel of Basset Hound Magic Healing Elixir (Drool) your way. It has the power to heal everything.
- 1 vote
A big THANK YOU for all the kind thoughts and Basset Drool. With thoughtful wishes and a sweet lap puppy, I know I can start to feel better now. Thanks again.
- 1 vote
Hey, hey, hey, JerseyGirl, knew there was something special about you. I too have a Quaker, JoJo. This little guy is such a gas, loves to learn new diddys to whistle, and is constantly learning new words and sayings.
Have this other little guy, a chihuahua, Pedo. Well every time I feed Pedo I stomp my feet and say, "eat your dinner, eat your dinner," and the little guy eats, growls and carries on like crazy. Well a couple of days ago . . . yep, JoJo started saying "eat your dinner."
This morning I sat Pedo's food down on the floor and said, "eat your dinner," Pedo looked at JoJo in his cage, JoJo said, "eat your dinner," and Pedo started eating and growling like crazy!
Quakers do make fantastic pets!
- 2 votes
Arkpdx, wow, being a guy I also have to add that the Rainbow Bridge shakes my heart. Don't think we can ever be overly sentimental over the loss of our special friends. Many might think its crazy, but I who think of myself as being very stable, find myself not wanting to be in a heaven if my little guys aren't there when I get there. Alright, alright, I know . . . I might not get there. :)
JerseyGirl, it is a shock when our little Quakers speak out a word, or a set of words, that we never attempted to teach . . . "eat your dinner!" Funny how your little Bruno says Matt and Billy, what does the new boyfriend think?!?!?!?! :)
- 2 votes
JerseyGirl, often it is OK. Often we need long periods of time to heal and to become re-balanced. Of course our little friends are of tremendous help!
- 2 votes
JerseyGirl, it is such a good feeling to rediscover oneself, pick up some new habits, throw some of the old habits away, paint the living room, and do all of this with some fantastic friends, our pets.
I know I'm bias but I thought this was kind nice and besides how can you resist the puppies.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2wpALJHCKA&p=4D1B171D01C13BE4
- 1 vote
#15 - Sat Nov 6, 2010 3:18 PM EDTThe woamn who wrote and sings the song is part of the Basset rescue in Seattle. I have attended some of their events (The Woodenville, Wa Basset Waddle, The Basset Bash and their Howloween party) and she sells copies ofsong as fund raiser for rescue. I am also a Basset hound nut (a common trait of Basset owners. we definitely are not normal when it comes to our masters) and look for different Basset related sites.
- 1 vote
Your truely haven't expirience life until you've been around 100 or more Bassets at one time. Oh and we are not Basset Hound owners. the houndies would not stand for it. We definitely are slave to our little furry buddies. Their wishes are our commands.
Go to meetup.com and you can look up to see if there are any meetup groups in your area for your specific breed. I know there is a Corgi group here in Portland, OR. I've never looked but I wouldn't be surprised if you find a bunny meetup group or a parrot group or even a kitty group. Also for your dogs try to see if there is a breed rescue in your area. they usually have get togethers and things as fund raisers and foster recruiting.
- 2 votes
arkpdx I have a few friend in Portland Oregon with Corgis. They so cute and funny. There is also a group of Pug owners that meet in the park once a month. The owners dress the dogs in outfits and it is a scream.
- 2 votes
Used to work and live up in Globe, Arizona. What a blast. Worked with a lady who became a very good friend. Believe she had five or six pugs. In her office she had pictures of her babies everywhere. Then she had her little pug figurines. On her computer she had her pug screen savors. A couple of her sweators, earings, even had a dress she would wear. Yes, pugs everwhere!
Globe is a mining town up in desert mountains, and next to Globe is the town of Miami, Arizona. And what a laugh. I don't know why, but I have never seen so many chihuahuas in one town in my entire life. You can drive around the town almost anywhere and you will see chihuahuas in yards, and even running loose in the streets (yes, very risky), have to drive slow there. During the summer in Miami there is a special day, "Chihuahua Day." It is such a blast. In the city park they have races . . . yes, Chihuahuas on the run. It is so much fun to watch. Once your dog looses its eliminated. Only two dogs running in each heat with a divider between them they run down a well protected path with people on each side being used to keep the little guys on course. The track is approximately 25 feet, not overly long. Two people are involved with each dog who races. One person holding the little ones untill the ring master yells "go." Usually the owner is positioned at the other end. The owners are usually jumping up and down, clapping their hands, bouncing a ball, shaking a favorite toy, smiling, laughng, and even some crying. Usually seen crying with laughter, and often heard yelling "run" or their loved one's name. Most of these little guys run for their life, wagging their tails, smiling, they can't wait to be in their owner's arms. Of course there are the ones who simply sit down, some jump the little seperation fence between the dogs, some want to jump up and lick the one who was holding them, and then there is always one or two who decide to pee. All the little guys recieve cries of joy.
- 2 votes
We had the "wienie" races in Portland. Wee Dachshunds running their little legs off. What a hoot that was.
- 1 vote
To Jersey Girl
I cannot provide links for what I am about to say, this is simply information I have picked up over the years. When the ancestor of man came from the oceans onto land and adapted to land and eventually evolved into man. Some of these creatures while evolving into air breathers apparently decided that land was a bad idea.
And went back into the oceans, and that while the land air breathers eventually evolved into humans the ocean air breathers evolved into dolphins and porpoises. My understanding is that only an expert can tell the difference between a Human brain, dolphins, or porpoises brains, they are almost identical.
Some believe that humans, dolphins and porpoises are genetically related. The dolphin and porpoise skeletons are nothing more then human skeletons adapted to aquatic life. I was told once that a school of porpoises was going north along the California coast while a school of dolphins was going south along the CA coast.
Keep in mind I cannot supply links to this information. The porpoises going north ran into a school of sharks they went into deep waters to avoid the sharks. After passing the sharks they went inland again.
They came into contact with the school of dolphins, after mingling for a day or so the porpoises kept heading north and the dolphins kept heeding south. When the dolphins came within a mile or two of the sharks they headed into deep ocean even though they had not encountered the sharks.
Once into deep seas they traveled about 5 miles south and then headed into coastal waters again completely avoiding the sharks. It was assumed that the porpoises and dolphins exchanged information, and that the dolphins using the information provided by the porpoises avoided the sharks.
Dolphins and Porpoises are also the only other species besides man who uses astro navigation. A Dolphin on the West Coast was captured and taken to the East Coast. During daylight and night sky the dolphin headed back to it's home waters. But when clouds obscured the sky the dolphin would simply circle until the stars appeared again.
- 1 vote
#17 - Sat Nov 6, 2010 11:21 PM EDTMark, I've read an article from a magazine, and like you can't recall the source which related the same information on the astro navigation.
Sometime during the last two, perhaps three years, I read a reposrt about man's vocal cords being very similar to that of dolphins, the article was stating that it was far more likely that man evolved from a common ancestor between man and dolphine than man and monkey. Go fish! Actually the article was very interesting. Wish I could remember the source. Likely one could find the information on the net. Thanks Mark.
- 1 vote
To Gray Therapy
If I had to remember all of my sources for my information I would most likely go insanse. I have had a varied education and have had a varied of inputs of information's. I link that information that I can and simply impart that information that i have.
Mark, if you have interest, or for anyone who has interest in what Mark replied on . . .
http://madplatonews.blogspot.com/2009/07/dolphins-whales-apes-and-men.html
This link will take you to one of many web articles written about dolphins and man have a common ancestor, and not man and ape. If you have interest read the entire articel, far worh it.
One can also do a simply search: dolphins man common ancestor . . . which will pull up many articles relating to this theory.
The article which the above link takes you to . . . well there is one thing in the article which I disagree with. I do believe that I have seen some of my past, and my present little dog cry. The article states that only man can cry. Hummmmm . . . just can't agree.
- 1 vote
When the whales pass at Kua Bay the swimmers and boogie boarders can hear them call back and forth. When I was living above Pebble Beach a whale breached out of the water and called out and I burst into tears. It was the most marvelous sensational heart warming and truly magnificent experience. Can you tell I was impressed? At Kua Bay a pod will swim by and frolic push each other and leap in the air. They are just like puppies and so wonderful to see. They make such a big splash it makes me laugh.
I'm with you Jerseygirl. Whales are so huge and they are as agile as the dolphins. I just cannot get enough of watching them and they are here November through April. They come within a football field away from us and are so funny and playful. I think seeing a mammal as huge as a whale playing so freely is very humbling.
- 2 votes
Jerseygirl1978, I loved your article and life is better with our pets unconditional love. Thanks for becoming my friend, and your invite to this group. I can see that those who are here are very compassionate people, who care very much for their pets as well as about other people.
I have had chronic arthritis for years, but have worked around it. I think that Fibromyalgia, is a much more painful disease. I feel by the way that you speak that you have a compassionate heart, and spend much time caring for others, including your sweet pets, rather than concentrating on yourself.
I know that concern for others is important in dealing with our own pain, whether it be emotional or physical. Once we get busy loving someone else, we forget about ourselves.
My sweet pet is Kitty Grey and he is the most delightful cat. Though he is not an, in your face cat, he sleeps on my shoulder, as if to protect me, as I proceed to rest. My husband found him just shortly before my dear mother passed, and he loved her so much. He would try to sneak into her room to sleep with her, and sat on her lap as I fed her baby food. It seemed that he was just like her in his loving warm way.
We had never had a house pet, as my husband really disliked cats. But he fell in love with this little kitty, whose mother had left him, and he has become very much a part of our family. He's always there to make us laugh when things get tense. I call him Nascat as he runs through the house and always comes in 1st, 2nd, and 4th.
When the lights are all out he slips up next to my hubby and sleeps with part of his body touching a leg. He causes a great deal of love around here, and keep us both, feeling better, and very loved.
He was big hit when I took him to the nursing home to visit mother.
The very best to you and I can see that the warmth of your pets, and your compassion for others, keeps you going along.
- 1 vote
#18 - Thu Nov 11, 2010 5:56 AM ESTJerseygirl,
Well things seem to have a strange way of happening. I went in to the place where I used to work last night to get away from here for awhile( Club 93 in Jackpot) and one of the change girls asked me if I happened to be looking for a dog because she had rescued a couple of them and had to find a home or take them to the pound. She says they are white Labs about 9 months old-- like the cottonelle dog in the commercial she says. Anyhow I am supposed to go in this afternoon and look at them. I only have room for one dog though and she says one is a female and one a male. Don't know if I really want a dog or not right now, but the way this all came down, I guess I do. Don't know much about Labs, but a friend has one and he says they are good dogs. I will probably get the female one because they seem to be more territorial and make better watch dogs. Like that is a concern anyhow, every dog I have ever had including the wolf hybrid loved everybody and never was much at watching anything other than a food dish.
#19 - Thu Nov 11, 2010 10:02 AM ESTI went to see the pups and it turns out that they are only part lab. Actually look like good dogs, but they have been raised there since birth and have imprinted on each other and the house and people where they are. They have been very spoiled and little trained and seem to be a little older than I actually had in mind. I can't take both of them and my guess is that the people that have them will keep them if nobody adopts them. My big hang up right now is that I don't know what I want to do in the near future and down the road. Getting a dog right now just doesn't feel quite right. Come next spring, If I decide to stay here, a dog might be in order, if I go somewhere, a dog is really hard to travel with.
Great statement Jerseygirl. My nephew would get a pet neglect its training and give it away or take it to the pound. I got up in his face a bunch of times over this and finally had to walk away as he had no consciousness about lovin' and leavin'. The pound is filled with animals treated poorly and this makes me crazy. My dad always said that anyone mistreating animals was not human and I agree.
- 1 vote
It is good that you did not take those dogs. If you do not feel right about them you obviously have not found the right "puppy size" yet. the link on #10.25 explains "puppy size". Someday the right animal will come into your life and you will know it's the one. Sort of like your husbaand/wife/boyfriend/girlfriend. It may not necessarily fit your timeline either. Just go with the flow and you and your new pet will find each other.
- 1 vote
Pretty much sums up what I decided about the dog thing for now. Besides I have this old cat here and she is company to the point of being a nuisance at times. I wouldn't want to upset her world at this point in her life( close to 17 or so). I think she still wanders around looking for Gail.
- 1 vote
As for the animals, I do not know if you know it or if it has already been mentioned but for nearly a decade or so, dogs and cats have been allowed into hospitals especially for children and elderly patients as part of the treatment.
For the reasons you described, they can take the patients mind off of their conditions and lift their spirits
MarkL Holland #1.1 couldn't be more correct. My 6 year old daughter has leukemia and all those times that she has been in the hospital going through heavy chemo she has been visited by dogs specially trained to visit children in the hospital. Her eyes light up when "Elliott" a labradoodle or "Ben" a golden retriever come to see her. These dogs really do help her forget about where she is and everything that she is going through. It seems like such a small thing but it really means more to her than we may know.
Jerseygirl, I agree completely...because of their unconditional love and because they just seem to sense when we need them most, pets are very truly healing to us. Thank you for sharing this.
- 1 vote
#20 - Thu Nov 11, 2010 4:33 PM ESTI am sending a double order Basset Hound Magic Healing Elixir to you and you daughter. Its good for what ails you. And it virtually delicious.
Jerseygirl, I haven't been able to visit Newsvine as much as I'd like lately...lots of ups and downs but Alecia's leukemia is in remission and her hair is starting to grow back and...well, she really is doing well now. She has to take an oral chemo medication daily for the next year and a half but thankfully it's not too hard on her. Thanks for your kind thoughts 'c)
arkpdx... sounds absolutely wonderful! Thank you very much!! 'c)
The BHME is something my basset group "sends" to each other during times of sickness or loss as a way of telling each other that they are in our hearts and prayers. I certainly hope it helps youand your daughter cope a little better through her illness.
To Jersygirl
May I compliment you, My interests are religious and political, but a simple animal thread drew me in and hooked me as if it was a major religious or political thread. I thank you for reminding me that yes I am human first and religious and political second. I would trade half of mankind for the two animals that I have most loved in this life. And do it happily, especially if that half of mankind was Republican/Christian.
Sorry my weakness just had to throw that in. :-) honestly it was last second
#21 - Fri Nov 12, 2010 11:38 PM ESTTo Jersey Girl
No I thank you this has become a refuge from my political and religious battles. A place where I can drop in and see nothing but positive comments and love dealing with the animals that we love. Non political and non religious.
You are a Saint in my eyes that has provided me a refuge. That I enjoy immensely. May you post just as good and satisfying posts and threads in the future that I may find sanity in.
- 4 votes
Have you ever heard the expression "wound tighter then a Swiss watch, I resemble that remark" it is nice to have a place to unwind a little, this has been a good place for that. Trust me I will keep a look out for your threads.
- 1 vote
Positive and uplifting - your "right on" article and readers' comments. My kitty, "Abbey" --named in honor of Edward--(she shares his adventuresome and persistent spirit) has brought great comfort, amusement, and insight into my life since finding her at a kitty shelter 4 1/2 years ago. I too am amazed at how critters sense when we are out of sorts, feeling poorly, or needing to connect. She has been companion through death (my late mother), relationship challenges, a recent cross-country drive, relocation, and important life style transitions. She likes to share a lick or two of morning coffee and an occasional glass of wine or bowl of ice cream. I'm convinced she knows that she will get my total attention during those quieter moments.
Come to think of it, all of my nearest/dearest friends and family are pet lovers of one sort or another: cats; dogs; horses. And, this time of year as daylight grows shorter and the year draws to a close, they remind us that it's purrrfectly natural to want to slow down, reflect, and semi hibernate.
Hope that the fibromyalgia flare-up has moved on.
- 1 vote
#22 - Wed Nov 17, 2010 9:41 AM ESTHi Jerseygirl! Owning a pet is definitely good for your health, I know that for a fact. After we adopted our first dog 11 years ago, my stress level dropped considerably and my husband's high blood pressure dropped almost immediately, and he has not had to take any meds for it since then.
I see you have a dog, cat and parrot, that's great! We have two adopted dogs now (had cats years ago when I was single). Pets are wonderful companions, the best! About your dog nudging your hand to pet her, our dogs do that, too, it's so endearing! I think dogs have evolved over the years to be in tune with human emotions, and maybe other animals do that as well. Reading a lot of interesting comments here about therapy animals. You are so right, the greatest gift pets give us is unconditional love...and really, you don't get that anywhere else!
I am sorry to hear you have Fibromyalgia. My mother-in-law suffers from that and I know it's very painful. It's also a very misunderstood illness. Some of my husband's siblings think their mother is a hypochondriac, they just don't get it. I'm glad you have pets there for you, and that certainly helps to make the pain more bearable, at least for awhile. Hope you feel better soon!
- 1 vote
#23 - Wed Nov 17, 2010 2:12 PM ESTThat is something that I have loved about some of my pets in the past, they know you, they know how you feel and what your emotions are, they know when to curl up at your feet or to curl up in your lap. They know when to guard against others or to guard you against yourself.
There was a time when I was in emotional turmoil I was sitting on a park bench thinking about taking my own life when a man walking his dog came into the park. They were maybe a hundred feet away and his Lab ran over to me and I put away my 45, and it played with me and danced for me and yapped for me.
Until he called it back, It knew my termoil was over and went back to him. A dog had saved my life that night, and I will swear to my Gods that it knew it as well
- 2 votes
Hi Jerseygirl! It really is special the way dogs run up to you, tails wagging, so happy to see you even if you have only been gone a few minutes. Thanks for your supportive words about my mother-in-law and thanks for the email offer, but my mother-in-law is in her late 70s and doesn't do email or use a computer. She lives across the country from us (CA) but we talk on the phone and she knows I'm one person who will listen and believe her. I will check out the Fibro group here. I'm glad you're raising awareness for Fibromyalgia.
Mark..the way that Lab saved your life was something special, very remarkable!
- 2 votes
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