Archive for June, 2009

Dog Poem of the Week

Saturday, June 27th, 2009

Following the loss of Byron in 2007, I began a morning ritual to connect with his spirit. Standing on my back porch, I could see the Dog Star Sirius in the early morning sky. I would take a few moments in the quiet of the dawn to look up at the star and remember him. I had a strong feeling he was watching over me, and this simple ritual was comforting.

Byron, age 14

Byron, age 14

As if he was answering me back, I began to notice star motifs appearing everywhere. Digging around in a cupboard in the garage, I pulled out an extra dog dish to take to the cabin. It was a handmade pottery dish, with a star motif. I had completely forgotten I had this dish. The circle seemed complete when little Alex was born with a small white mark on his back like a shooting star. I still look up at the stars, and think of all my beloved dogs. Browsing through my dog poetry collection, I came across this poem. (more…)

Chained Dogs – Organizations Making a Difference

Sunday, June 21st, 2009

As I drive to the cabin with Alex snoozing contentedly on his quilt in the back seat, I pass by several dogs on the mountain back roads that aren’t so lucky. One forlorn beagle lives by himself in a small pen on the hillside, quite a distance from the main house. He has shade and a dog house, and once I saw him trotting happily behind the lawn mower, enjoying a few moments of freedom. But he spends most days lying in his pen, watching the cars go by. At least he has a pen, though it is tiny. Further up the road, a puppy lounges on a long chain amidst rusty old trucks and farm equipment. If not for the chain, he would probably meet death on the road. Sadly, there are dogsĀ  who live their entire lives chained in back yards. It’s perfectly legal in this area. This morning at the tailgate market, I met a couple who are doing something about it. (more…)

Dog Poem of the Week

Monday, June 15th, 2009

In the process of compiling Angel Pawprints; Reflections on Loving and Losing a Canine Companion, I acquired an extensive library of dog literature, including poems, stories, essays, and tributes. I love the old books with their thick, rough-edged pages and charming pen and ink illustrations. Sometimes there is a bookplate on the inside cover or inscription in flowing fountain-pen script on the frontispiece. I like to think of the book’s previous owners and how they must have loved dogs too. I’ve decided to share some favorite dog poems in this blog. (more…)

Happy Birthday Alex!

Friday, June 5th, 2009

Alex is one year old today. It has been an amazing and wonderful experience to raise him; not always easy but also full of laughter and joy as we learn from each other. Here are a few photos of our first year together.

A very pregnant Momma Farina

A very pregnant Momma Farina

Two weeks old - Alex at bottom right

Two weeks old - Alex at bottom right

Alex (far left) and his six brothers

Alex (far left) and his five brothers

Alex at 4 weeks old

Alex at 4 weeks old

I'm ready for my close-up

I'm ready for my close-up

Alex and Emily

Alex and Emily

Alex loves the spring snow

Alex loves the spring snow

Relaxing at the cabin, May 2009

Relaxing at the cabin, May 2009

I am grateful for Alex and the joy he brings. My birthday wish for him is for all dogs to have a forever home where they are safe and loved. Please join me in making a donation to your local shelter or rescue group, in honor or in memory of your beloved companion.