A WALK IN THE PARK

Educational Dog Flyers

2012-02-14T08:08:00.001-08:00

UPDATE: The flyers are all listed at $3.00 a packet and 100% of its profit will be donated to Saving Shibas Inc.

Get yours now and educate another:

Educational Dog Flyers - Hot Dog is not Cool - 20 count

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half-frozen Cream Puff...

2012-01-26T14:18:00.001-08:00

I can't stop eating these... They're like ice cream in an airy pastry.

And yuki can't stop staring at them.

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Happy Year of the Dragon!

2012-01-23T09:19:00.001-08:00

It's raining humans & monkeys out there.

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Photo:

2012-01-18T12:14:00.001-08:00

Getting ready for a "photoshoot". If it involves treats, I'm in!

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Everybody nose...

2011-12-31T11:23:00.000-08:00

... it's time of the year to let by-gones be by-gones & have a new outlook on everything you do. Cheers and be safe to all who are celebrating tonight's transition into 2012!

Thank you.

2011-11-01T12:23:00.000-07:00

November is a special month to me. Besides it being my birthday month; I enjoy more the food, laughter, reminiscence of childhood memories and the togetherness of family and friends.

I would also like to give an early thanks to Yuki. I can't stress this enough, but if it weren't for her, I wouldn't have met everyone who've left foot prints in my life since I've adopted her. You've made my life more enjoyable and I have not yet been annoyed of any of you. Seriously, I get easily annoyed of people and their tendencies that I tend to hideout for a few days until those feelings disperse. But to each and every one of you... Nope. Well, not yet anyway ;)

So to give thanks to everything you do and for being you.. from NOW until December 1st:

$4.00 donation to Saving Shibas Inc. from each order of the educational dog flyer and Free Shipping with the coupon code THANX4INUS at Chasing Paper crafts.

And I have finally added on the right side how much money was raised from the dog flyers so far. $16... lets keep it coming my friends!

Sleeping beauty...

2011-10-25T15:51:00.001-07:00

...needs her prince to wake her up soon because she needs to go on her afternoon walk.

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Scar...

2011-10-03T10:27:00.001-07:00

A few days ago, yuki was doing her Zoomies around the house. She circles the living room and runs up and down the stairs.

This time, she hurt herself (like owner like pets). She miscalculated and ran into the steps, leaving her chin bleeding, I'm not sure if she's hurt anywhere else because she's been acting normal.

It's been a few days now and its healing, drying and peeled.

She hasn't done zoomies since...

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A depiction of a Shiba Inu's "mine".

2011-09-26T11:08:00.001-07:00

If she could laugh... It would be an evil one.

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hi...

2011-09-20T00:53:00.001-07:00

...It's been awhile.

Just wanted to say hello to our subscribers with this funny, but cute photo.

Hope everyone is still doing fine out there. We need to catch up soon.

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News & Deals

2011-08-02T11:57:00.000-07:00

Free shipping on EVERY order (in the U.S.) made at Chasingpaper.etsy.com !

For every listing purchased for the Educational Dog Flyer, $2 will be donated to the Saving Shibas Inc. Rescue (instead of $1).

My Goal is still to raise $100+. We already raised $10. I need to add a little goal thing on the side of the blog so everyone can see the progress.

Pet Communicator

2011-07-19T12:09:00.001-07:00

As we sat down, Dr. Monica asks us for her age & tries to get a read on Yuki. She begins to explain to us that animals communicate through telepathy and sends movie clips or photos to her.

She told us that Yuki is very thankful that we saved her & that she doesn't asks for anything more because we give her everything she needs & she loves us. This alone just made me a bit emotional, lol.

We asked about her past:

She told us that someone let Yuki go. She was never physically abused, but was treated like a thing. This is why she's happy with us because we treat her like she's someone. She was always hungry. She's happy being the only dog.

We asked about her behavior issue:

She's been around a lot of dogs. She snaps at other dogs because she wants to let them know that she wants her space.

We asked about why she goes in the house in the room nobody goes in:

She says Yuki thinks she's a princess & she likes her privacy. She doesn't like anyone watching her go to the bathroom. She asked if there was any way we can install a doggy door for her. She wants me to let her explore the outdoors more often. Also, she enjoys the outdoors so much that sometimes she'll forget to go.

We asked why she sometimes throws up in the morning:

She said we need split Yuki's meals into 3 because Yuki eats too fast.

Then it ended because we only had 10 minutes. Most of the things she got on-point. When she said that Yuki likes being the only dog, it made me a bit sad because I wanted to get her a brother or sister. Second opinion anyone? Haha.

When she told us that Yuki thought she was a Princess, it made me & Ron laugh. When we adopted her, Her pink collar said Princess on it. They also named her Princess at the Shelter. Since then, I just allow her to do what she wants (sniffing and exploring) on our walk. She seems a bit happier... and as long as she does her business, I'm happy!

Shibapalooza 2011

2011-07-18T10:43:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was the 6th Annual Shiba Picnic (aka Shibapalooza) at Yorba Linda Regional Park. A few of the #twibas (Twitter Shibas) were able to take a trip all the way to Socal to participate in the picnic.

We were able to meet Zuko, Tokyo, Rinji & Mika, Mika & Kyuubi and a couple of other Shibas & bloggers like Chloe and Flickr Fame, Suki. We also saw Taro again!

Yuki was guarded as usual & wanted her space. She snapped at a couple of dogs, but actually got to Kyuubi's face before Jonathan took the group photo - which got me pretty upset. But, when it came to treats, it took her focus off of other dogs for a bit - especially when Zuko's momma were giving her cheese & salmon.

We had an appointment with the Pet Communicator as well. What she told us was pretty interesting. It's time for me to head to work, so I'll continue that on the next blog.

In the meantime, here are a few photos: http://flic.kr/s/aHsjveoX3w

I wish I was able to take my time taking more photos, but Yuki was a bit of a handful & mostly listened to me than Ron.

Educational Dog Flyers

2011-06-27T20:20:00.000-07:00

Finally. The long awaited time (for me) is over. I have listed my new project on the Etsy shop.

They are Educational Dog Flyers. No, silly. Not to educate dogs - but, to educate dog owners about NOT leaving dogs in the car. Too many people think it's alright. It's not alright, especially when the dog suffers from heat exhaustion, dehydration or even death.

When I was going to the mall, we parked beside a van with a chihuahua inside. The windows were opened only about 1/2 an inch - no exaggeration. The poor pup was panting and barking. There was already a note left on the wind shield (by a very funny smart-ass, I might add). I also left another one. We we parted after about 30 minutes to an hour, we saw that the van was gone & the notes were thrown on the ground. One of many incidents.

Not only do I believe in this, I was inspired by another flyer & all those dogs I've seen locked up in cars with only a crack in the window. Also, I was sick of looking for a pen & paper - hah!

For every listing purchased, $1 will be donated to Saving Shibas Inc (http://savingshibasinc.org).

Last project, the Key Chains, I was only able to donate a little over $20 to Southern California Shiba Inu Rescue. It wasn't much, but it was something. Thanks to you guys.

My goal with these flyers is to donate over $100 to the rescue. Wish me luck!

Check out the Etsy shop feed to your right, OR - click here: Educational Dog Flyers

Just Yuki and I

2011-06-17T23:03:00.001-07:00

...Sharing a kiss goodnight!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

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2011-05-31T18:39:00.000-07:00

All is well with Yuki. Happy pup whenever she sees her buddies, Taz & Buster. Still iffy with strange dogs.

The 6th Annual Shiba Picnic is around the corner, July 16th to be exact. As of right now, my answer is: Yes, we'll be attending.

I actually scheduled an appointment with the pet communicator for Yuki during the picnic. I'm a little skeptical, but really eager to see what she has to tell us. Who knows, maybe she'll tell me why Yuki is dog reactive and what I can do to get Yuki to stop - though, I have a pretty good idea why already.

And.... I will be making desserts for #twiba owners! Nothing big, just bite-size sweets.

I have another project for the Etsy shop. I'm looking forward to getting it all done because part of the proceeds will go to Saving Shibas Inc. this time. I might have it up next week if i have them done this week.

I am also making Masako's business cards for the rescue. I will get it some time this week - hopefully along with the project.

Also, check out: http://caninecocktailpawty.org/ because Jenna & Snick are doing a wonderful thing to help Emma raise funds and awareness for military families! Please check it out. It will be a LIVE pawty in New York. If you're in town, maybe you can go check it out!

Walking with Rocky

2011-05-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

This morning, I decided to head over to my cousin's house for our morning walk. As we were a light, a man beside us asked what breed Yuki was. & told me he has 2. I would have asked him if we could have them meet up sometime, but his light turned green (lol).

Any who, when we got there, I asked my cousin to take their new pup out to walk with Yuki.

Yuki got into her usual reaction:

1. heel (watches carefully as the dog approaches from the distance)

2. lunging (as the dog gets near)

3. barking (when the dog is close)

4. stops (when the dog has passed, or she's tired from barking)

We walked a bit further ahead because Rocky was still getting used to his lead. As Yuki sniffed around, she would look back & continue her 1 through 4's. It took about 15 minutes into the walk & a lot of praising every time she wasn't reacting before they were able to walk closer to one another. The rest of the walk was fine.

It takes lots of patience & training, but I can definitely tell that it's paying off by the decrease in the time that it takes for her to get used to other animals.

I don't ever think she'll be able to get along with any dog right away...

Goal?

1 - letting dogs come, pass & walk away from her w/o reacting.

2 - sniff & walk away... or play instead of sniffing & going crazy.

Slowly but surely.

She's knocked out right now. Tired from this morning. A tired dog is a happy dog!

Bad news and good news.

2011-04-23T18:58:00.000-07:00

Hello there strangers. Sorry I never got back to anyone on my past post. I forget about this blog sometimes and there haven't been anything interesting to write about since then, Until...

...many accidents have happened that it makes me feel like a bad owner!

A few weeks ago, I went into the restroom before bed and saw toilet paper from the trash all over the floor. Thing is, there was a golf-ball size of chocolate in there.

Last week, the night before we left on our vacation, I was terribly sick with the flu. We were starving and decided to go get dinner. When we got back, I walked into the room and saw wrappers - EVERYWHERE! I thought she got into the trash, but she didn't. She ate my coughdrops i had left on the bed. She rubbed it into my carpet and my bed sheets. I freaked out. Cleaned up the mess and searched online. Similar thing happened to someone else & thank goodness she only ate less than 5. They were the Luden's ones, so they didn't have any menthol. She's fine, thank goodness.

Lesson: Always be too careful!

I feel horrible, and i know all you wonderful pet owners out there are probably dissapointed in me. It's alright, I am emotionally beating myself up for it.

On to happy news:

Masako obtained a non-profit Shiba Inu rescue located in Southern California as of February 14th of this year! Yes, I'm 2 months late in spreading the news, but if you haven't heard - then celebrate!

The organization is called Saving Shibas Inc. Visit them at http://savingshibasinc.org

I'm going to be a volunteer, but the documents I have to fill out won't open on my laptop - will be doing that on my desktop soon.

If you are interested in being a volunteer or donating, please visit their website for more information.

*Remember, every potential volunteer may help save a dog from the streets and kill shelters - no matter what rescue.

The Start of the Holiday season!

2010-11-02T16:14:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

A lot of changes are happening in my personal life & I'm becoming a busy bee, which has made me put the key chains on hold - APOLOGIES! But, now that the holiday season is here, I have to keep it on top of my list! Hence, I just listed 4 keychains.

Question: has any of you ever had your dogs teeth cleaned professionally? How did it go? Yuki needs a cleaning really bad.

Anywho! The other day, Snick's mom sent me a link (Again Woman Speaks) that made her (& myself) tear up!

I was watching Yuki the other day, as she stared back at me. I'm not quite sure her age (the Vet said maybe 3-4), but I can tell she's getting a little older around the eyes. Which brings me back to the link. Though we may have those bad days where everything just goes wrong & you want to just bundle up in the corner of the room, don't take for granted of even the littlest things in your life! & That little thing may even be your little pup. Not a lot of people understand why I talk about Yuki so much. Why I let her sleep on my bed. Why I have to walk her morning & night & why I take her almost everywhere I go. Only people who have dogs that love & care for them understands. Some people Think I'm crazy, but She's like my DOGhter (daughter, haha). Yes, there are boundaries with Yuki because she is a dog.

I'll sum it up & say what Jenna said: My dog had better live forever. Seriously.

Emergency Preparedness for your dogs

2010-10-03T18:06:00.000-07:00

SUPER HOT --> THUNDER/LIGHTNING --> RAIN --> CLOUDY

So that was the weather for the past week. It's freaking me out a bit because... isn't that the pattern before some sort of natural disaster? Like an earthquake, perhaps? Maybe...

I've been sick & it gave me time to think (and sleep). Having Yuki in my life now makes me worried if something did occur. I don't know what I would do if Yuki were to run away... or something worse. It's something I hate to think about, but if I don't take care of it now, I'll regret it later.

Yuki happens to have a duffle bag right by the door with items we use often such as: toys, grooming brushes, a few treats, toothpaste, nail file and flea/bedding spray. I need to add a few more items...

If you feel the same way as I do, here are a few ways to help you & your pet... just in case.

PET FOOD: Always keep a weeks worth of extra food on hand for each of your pet. There may not be chances of running to the pet-store to get them food. They have expiration dates, so keep checking it. I know this by experience of the 1994 Northridge earthquake. Powers went out, everyone dashed to the market & everything was SOLD OUT! It was a learning experience.

EMERGENCY KIT: Collect the following items & keep them safely in a duffle bag:

- First aid guide & kit (you can get it from your vet), Medical history, Photo of you & your pet(s), PET TAGS, Pet medication, Poop bags, Leash, Collar/Harness, Capped/Collapsable bowl, Pet food, Can-opener, Gloves, Muzzle, Plastic bags, Grooming supplies, Toys, Splinting materials, blanket, disinfectants, Paper towels.

Please visit this link for more in-depth information: Earthquake Preparedness for Pets Handout

I just added her sweater, poopy bags, dog license, muzzle & extra leash, collar and harness that we have. Still need to get a few more things.

Good luck everyone... & if you have any suggestions on this, please let me know!

Happy October!

2010-10-01T09:44:00.000-07:00

To start off the month, Yuki was such a sweetie. She was helping me look for my glue-stick in my drawing/art supplies bin. It was too cute. Unfortunately we didn't find it. So I went down stairs to make something to eat, while she goes & lays on the stairs. As I was about to walk up the stairs...

i looked at her... while she stares back a me like this:

What was this? Had she gotten into something she shouldn't have while I was cooking? I got a bit angry & I told her "BAD GIRL!"

I stood there thinking what she could have gotten into. Thinking... Thinking... Eureka! THE CHARCOAL DRAWING! I felt bad for saying she's a bad girl 'cause she wasn't doing anything. I just started to laugh. 'Cause look at her -- she has a beard! She's like an Inverted Black/Tan Shiba!

I tried to wash it off, & guys... I got a bit, so it's not as dark, but (sigh) -- NO luck! I guess she'll have to get a bath soon!

Oh.. I think this has to be the cover of her halloween exchange cards!

September!

2010-09-25T12:07:00.000-07:00

Our Summer was a bit strange, this year. The weather was pretty much our fall weather. Now that it's fall, Summer barely hit us yesterday -- hot!

We haven't been socializing Yuki lately. Other than when we walk & we see dogs. She still goes crazy when she sees an unfamiliar dog. She doesn't mind the ones we see frequently.

I also saw a Shiba a few weeks ago in a car while the owner walked out of Starbucks. I asked if that was his dog & he said yes! He told me that he had a problem walking her because every time they see a dog, he has to cross the street because she gets dog-reactive, like Yuki. He told me jokingly that it's not fair how other shibas get along with people AND other dogs! Oh, i know that feeling! I told him to join the Shiba Inu group on MEETUP.com. I don't even know his name, but his shiba is a sesame named Ruby.

Yuki was SO itchy during summer. She'd itch as if she had fleas! Chewing & scratching herself. Well, we did catch maybe 1-5 fleas, but she doesn't have any now. She just have allergies, sneezing & itching.

I have been selling a few key chains, which is great! My mother had been in the hospital for a couple of days ,so there wasn't any new listings for a few days. But, she is doing well now & is recovering from surgery, so all will be back & running!

I would like to be more specific on the donations. For every handmade Shiba Inu Puppy Key Chains sold, $1 will be donated to Southern California Shiba Inu Rescue.

Anywho, I'm already getting into the holiday spirit because of QVC.

SCSIR

2010-09-09T20:30:00.001-07:00

I have been crafting away for a couple of days now... & I created these:

Shiba Inu key chains! I have given it a lot of thought & I am selling it through Etsy.

I know there are many people around southern California who help find homes, foster, transport & rescue shibas. I had gotten a taste of it with Al & Ruth & it's A LOT OF WORK!

I talked to Masako (http://awinnieday.blogspot.com/) and asked her if we had a socal shiba rescue group & she had mentioned Michelle & I talked to her.

So... for every handmade shiba key chains are sold, portions of the proceeds are going to Southern California Shiba Inu Rescue as a thank you & to help those shibas in need.

Visit the shop here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/chasingpaper

Photogenically not.

2010-09-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

Every time I take pictures of Yuki, She looks away or is always moving. Unless I catch her off guard or i have a treat in my hand. Yuki's a beautiful Shiba with A.D.D. -- or really hates getting her pictures taken... like me!

Well, here she is. She was supposed to be my little Shiba model... You can guess how many takes I had took to get the final photo (which i didn't show).

Dog Bark Shiba Inu Meetup : Calabasas, CA

2010-08-09T21:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we took Yuki to an off-leash dog park for a Shiba meetup.

It was Yuki's first time ever being off-leash and being at a dog park. I was a little bit skeptical about her being around a large group of dogs and being off-leash (If you don't already know, we have been training Yuki & trying to get her socializing because she is/was dog-reactive & she ran away from home once), but thank goodness for our neighbors (they own 2 shibas of their own). Brent has always been confident in Yuki & usually ask us to let her off-leash inside their home.

We all walked Yuki in the gated park with the leash on -- i know that's what you're not supposed to do, but we did. Taz, our neighbor's Shiba, greeted Yuki first, & all was fine. Maybe because she was a farmiliar dog. Brent decided to unhook her leash & off she ran to meet other dogs.

Low and behold, she was fine! She got along with Buster & Taz (which is usually on & off back at home) and she got along with Sugar & Argos! She did act like she owned the entire park... and she had gotten into 1 & a half fights at the end.

A Chinese Sharpei had entered the park -- the usual meet & greet. Next thing we knew, Yuki and the Sharpei were fighting & we broke it apart. The Sharpei had 3 punctures on it's face, but seemed fine. I felt horrible! I apologized to the owner & he told me that his dog was hurt & that I needed to watch Yuki. I calmed Yuki down & let her go. She was fine the rest of the time. She also ran up to the owner of the Chinese Sharpei & caressed his leg like a cat (apology maybe? lol). He just looked at her with bitterness - as if he would kick her away with his leg. I just called her every time she was near him or his dog. I didn't want him to be angry.

Then Amanda came with Kazi & Yuki wanted to fight him because he wanted to play (she usually mistaken dogs playing as fighting).

I was a bit overwhelmed & thank goodness it was time for us to go because Ron had work. As we were heading towards the fence calling Yuki over, the Chinese Sharpei's owner picked Yuki up by her harness & dragged her. Lyle, a shiba owner, had told him that it was unnecessary. Then, Lyle and Brent had gotten into an argument with the C.S. owner.

Regardless of the little drama, we had fun! Yuki was so tired running around, chasing the Grey Hound and annoying other dogs, lol! We are looking forward to future meetups!

More photos from the meetup here: Calabasas Bark Park

Make sure you mouse-over the last photo because I tagged the meanies (minus Argos) in them, lol.

Improvement

2010-07-12T23:17:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone! Sorry for the MIA. Was just reminded to update from Demondogsports blog!

Anywho! Since the last time we blogged (3 months ago), Yuki has improved greatly with her dog-reactive issue.

Well, I really believe that she has trust issues with other dogs that she isn't farmiliar with. We usually run into Buster & Taz (two other neighborhood shibas), which she would constantly bark at & would try to attack upon approachment. Then, would be fine afterwards -- determining her alpha role, i guess.

But lately, besides the fact that she walks like she's about to do a sneak-attack, she's fine! They get sorta close to each other & she's still fine! I think she's gotten a bit comfortable now around them and is beggining to trust them. Buster & Taz's owner gets pretty surprised when that happens.

Now... If I take her to the Annual Shibapalooza Meetup & there are all these unfarmiliar dogs, I'm afraid she'll just bark nonstop. We'll see!

Mine!

2010-04-11T22:30:00.000-07:00

MALE SHIBA INU MIX FOR ADOPTION

2010-03-31T21:10:00.000-07:00

I have 10% left on my laptop, so let me type this entry as quick as I can.

I found him at the shelter & contacted Ruth. We have been working together along with others to get this little guy adopted. I visited him and he's such a sweet and friendly little boy!

Here are photos I had taken during the visit:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/45837175@n03/sets/72157623687447656
If you are interested, please leave a comment.

he is available in southern california until april 2st, this friday. after that, Ruth and Al will transfer him up to Santa Fe, California to a rescue group.

A visit to the money-hungry vets.

2010-03-29T19:56:00.000-07:00

So we took Yuki to the vet this past Thursday because she was due her Booster & Rabies shot. The vet asked if we had any more questions & we just told him that Yuki scratches her ears a lot. He told us that he'll take Yuki in the back to get her shots & check her ears.

He came back & told us how Yuki was doing during the shots, etc. Then he told us that Yuki's ears are a bit irritated & pink, so he told us we can go to Petco & buy Epi-otic or anything similar, but nothing blue in color, or else it will irritate her even more. After we went to pay, the bill was about $150! I was wondering why it was so high until she handed us 2 medicines: the overly priced 8oz Epi-otic (which was light blue in color!) & the Mometamax. & they only wanted us to use the epi-otic for 3 days!

Anyway, we began the medication the following day. Epi-Otic first, then the Mometamax. & here's how the days went:

Day 1: A bit smooth. On the last drop she almost bit me, so I muzzled her.

Day 2: It bit difficult this time. She took off the muzzle, but we got them in.

Day 3: VERY difficult! She bit us & took off the muzzle. We only got the cleanser in & never the mometamax. I had to call the Vet-emergency number & ask them if it was bad if we skipped the antibiotics, they said it's not reccomended, ask what was her breed & said, "OHH... YEAH, THAT'S DIFFICULT."

Day 4: (Today!) We didn't bother. We took her to the vet to do it because we weren't having it.

When we went into the room, another Vet-Tech was the one who spoke to us, not the original vet we saw previously. She told us that "HE" said we should just stop the antibiotics if she's acting like that, they didn't want anyone hurt. They said 'cause of her breed, it's gonna be difficult because she (Yuki) will let you know that she doesn't want it done. If things get worse with her ears they'll have to undergo surgery to remove all the bacteria/yeast.

HOW ARE THEY GOING TO TELL ME TO STOP THE ANTIBIOTICS, THEN TELL ME ABOUT WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF I STOP IT?

She then continued to ask if I wanted to continue the antibiotics then they can put it in for us today, so I said yes! When she came back, she said it took 3 people to get the drops in & that Yuki had gotten out of the muzzle a couple of times (because of her head shape (small head, pointy nose) the muzzle wouldn't stay put).

Before we left, she said that it's free this time, but they'll have to charge us next time if we wanted them to JUST put in the drops for us.

I'm a bit irritated. Maybe it's just me?

Anyone know a vet that specializes in Shiba Inu's? Haha!

Why I think you should adopt

2010-02-18T22:05:00.000-08:00

There are so many dogs (and other animals) out there that are being put down to sleep. Why?

-Because people do not want to adopt.

-Because people turn in their pets because they're moving.

-Because they're too busy to have a pet.

-Because their pet turned out aggressive because they did not know how to train them.

-Because the pets are too old, and they want a puppy.

There are so many reasons & excuses not to adopt. But, there are so many reasons to adopt.

Most of them Are already house broken. They won't pee or poop all over the house. Less training for a busy person. Most of them Already know basic commands such as Sit and Stay. You may think, "so what?" If you've own a dog before, you'd know that the simplest commands will help so much. Most of them Can be left home alone, especially if you work 8-hour shifts. Most of them are crate trained, socialized and just needs a second, third or fourth chance.

Don't think twice about adopting a senior dog. Help them enjoy their golden years. There are also puppies, if that's what you prefer. Give their life a chance, because YES, puppies are also being put down if nobody adopts them.

I'll be honest, when I wanted a Shiba Inu, I originally wanted a puppy. I've done so much research on the breed & I read puppy books. I then realized, my life isn't fit for a puppy at the moment. I go to school & I work, so I wouldn't be able to give it the attention it needs. I began to think about adoption.

I looked at many shelter websites & I found two adult Shibas waiting to be adopted. A male in Pasadena & a female in Camarillo. & Obviously, I adopted the female. I'll admit, I was very tempted to adopt the male also, until I realized what I had gotten myself into!

Reading is not enough. Research is not enough. The information given to me was to prepare me for what I'm in for. Point is, I'm so happy to have adopted my Yuki. I love her so much, life would be so boring without her.

& make sure you are READY to be a parent to an animal. That includes Your home, your life AND your future. Beneath cute & cuddly, is a lot of work.

(By the way, there is nothing wrong with going to a breeder. As long as you go to a reputable breeder & not puppy mills or puppy stores, such as BarkWorks.)

Yuki & Mushu

2010-02-18T10:47:00.001-08:00

Mushu is a Multi-poo... or a Multese. He's still a puppy, a little under 1 year old, human years. Due to lack of exercise, he is very energetic. Jumping on you often, chews on the leash & tugging it like a game, runs in circles around you while walking him.

When Yuki first met him, he was still a puppy. Yuki didn't get along with him, even though he would flop over on his back for her.

During the (Lunar) New Year, we took both Yuki & Mushu on a LONG walk. As usual, Mushu had a lot of pent up energy on his walk & Yuki kept barking at him. Mushu managed to calm down. We also ran into a stray dog that was in the neighborhood. Yuki got along with him fine! All three of them sniffed here and there & got to know each other. The stray followed us everywhere, it was cute. We went around looking for his home. Somebody in the neighborhood took him in for now.

When we finally "tired" Mushu out & came back to my Aunt's, I was a bit hesitant to where I would leave Yuki. So we left her in the back yard with Mushu & Tito. Yuki was fine. Ron watched them for a bit incase anything went down. He told me every time Mushu got in Yuki's space, she would nudge his neck with her snout (because he's still an energetic pup). I wish I could have taken photos! Maybe next time.

I'm so glad she has another buddy now. I would love for her to go to a Shiba meet up. But honestly, I am getting a bit nervous thinking about letting her loose once we get to one.

"A tired Shiba is a Happy Shiba." Yuki seems to never be tired, even after Ron would skate her for 1-2 hours, lol.

What's New?

2010-01-31T19:30:00.000-08:00

Wow, I haven't written in here in awhile! Since the last time I have written in here... Well, I don't remember much! Lol.

Yuki's has progressed a bit on her social skills. I noticed, recently, she deals with calm off-leash dogs better than she does with leashed. People are surprised when I tell them, "Yuki did better this time than other times!" They tell me, "Seriously? She was really bad, though." I guess thats how bad she is.

I have faith in her. It's been 9 months of work & I do see progress. Slowly, but surely.

Oh! Yuki has met Kage and his buddy Pixi the Shiba Inus. Yuki was a bit annoying because she kept barking. Not a playful bark.

L-R: Yuri, Kage, Pixi & Yuki

This photo was the most decent one I got of them. Here are a couple of more photos of that day: 01062010

I'm hoping we can do more meet-ups because I would love for Yuki to have friends to play with.

There's a neighborhood Shiba named Foxy that is always running around off-leash. She runs around Yuki & taunts Yuki to chase her. At first, Yuki gets a bit annoyed. But a few seconds after, all she wants to do is play with her.

I feel bad because I can't let Yuki off-leash. Well, I don't want to even try because I don't know if she'll run away. She gets so easily distracted.

Well, that's all folks. Here's the latest photo of Yuki:

PLEASE ADOPT SHERO

2009-09-09T22:34:00.000-07:00

9/11/2009 UPDATE: Shero has been pulled out of the shelter! Woo hoo! I had called Al & Ruth to ask for an update of Shero & she had told me that someone already got her. Awesome! I would love to meet the person who has given her another chance!

I went to the shelter yesterday to visit a tan, unaltered Shiba named Shero. She is about 10 years old and so friendly! She came in with another shiba, that unfortunately had to be put down because he was very sick -- So I'm pretty sure she gets along with other dogs. She still has energy to trot around and sniff a lot. She's very calm & curious.

She doesn't "go" in her pin a lot. when they let her out of her kennel, she went poo about 5 times, possibly because she held it in, I guess she might be house-trained?

I put her under IP to hold her for 2 days before they put her down & I also contacted Al & Ruth, a Shiba Rescue here I met while adopting Yuki.

Tomorrow is the last day, Thursday, September 10th.

All she needs is a good home, someone to give her another chance to enjoy her golden years. A bath & a brush will just do her good to look like a teddy bear that she is. A happy little tan shiba. Anyone seriously interested, please leave a comment or call Al & Ruth at 805-889-4307, leave a message & mention that you got the information from Julie.

I know she has very little time, but I'm also considering adopting her. It's a little difficult with Yuki being a little bit on the aggressive side...

here is the website on where you can find her: Shero

Learned a new trick...

2009-09-02T12:05:00.000-07:00

to leave it when its on her!

Socializing update

2009-08-28T10:11:00.000-07:00

Yuki's socialization skills have slowly improved! We've been using the "leave it" command every time a dog is near. If she doesn't lunge and/or bark at them like crazy, I'll praise her.

There had been some stray/off leash dogs around & she'll just look at it, but not try to go after it at all. This shows me she's improving. But other times like...

Two days ago, my brother was skating Yuki & there was a loose dog that ran up to Yuki trying to sniff her booty. Yuki, as always, won't let dog's she doesn't know/trust sniff her. She gave the "back off" snarl & the dog started attacking her. My brother picked her up (he needs to stop doing that!). When he picked Yuki up, the other dog had already latched itself to Yuki's hind leg. He shoved the other dog off. The owners ran out and just kept apologizing & telling him that their dog is aggressive. This irks me because if owners know their dogs are "aggressive", they need to keep their dogs on a leash or keep a watch out for their dogs.

Since that incident, Yuki began lunging/barking again at dogs. *SIGH*

We just need to be very consistent & hopefully she'll be fine when a dog is walking by.

It's been awhile, but...

2009-08-19T23:04:00.000-07:00

A few minutes ago, Yuki began to do this hiccup noise & she kept licking her snout.

I freaked out because I didn't know what was going on! Usually when she throws up, she starts to gag -- but i guess she threw up. This time, it was all her food!

This is the second time she threw up since we have gotten her. The second time was when we first got her, on my lap in the car.

I saw some rice in there, so i suspect my mother might have fed her rice when I told her not to. That may be a possibility or her meat went bad -- which i doubt.

I'll have to ask her tomorrow on our morning walk. My poor baby!! Now she's just laying there. Staring at me & her vomit.

I hate leaving her (as do most dog owners who leave their dogs for awhile) at home while I'm at work or going to class! Kid you not, she is well taken care of!! Oh, & still a work in process with socializing.

Just around our Corner

2009-06-24T16:43:00.000-07:00

Every time I'm walking Yuki around my neighborhood, we run into a lot of people walking their doggies. They always ask if I've seen this person or that person who also 'has the same dog as' ours. They mentioned a lady and a gentleman -- so guess what!

A few weeks ago, when my mom and I were walking Yuki in the morning, I had spotted a lady playing with her shiba in front of her apartment -- off leash! Yuki and I stopped to chat with her. Her name is Minh (or Min?) and her Shiba's name is Foxy. Foxy was very friendly, Yuki wasn't quite. I didn't have a camera on me, so I didn't get any photos, maybe next time! She walks Foxy different times during the day due to work, so I doube I will see her any time soon.

Yesterday, Yuki and I had finally ran into the gentleman and his two shibas, Taz and Buster. These photos were from my phone.

Of course upon approaching, Yuki got pretty excited and tried to nip. Taz was so adorable, playful and chubby! She rolled right over on her back so Yuki can sniff. Taz just wanted to play the whole time & would just roll over on her back so I can pet her. Buster, on the other hand, snarled at Yuki. But, boy was his coat like silk!

Jorge & I talked for a bit and I asked if we could walk together to have Yuki socializing. We talked about our dogs lifestyles: what they ate, how long do they exercise for, how we got our pups, what we fed them, etc. The three walked together fine -- except for when Yuki would see other dogs passing by (alert, pulls, then barks). Taz and buster would try to sniff Yuki's butt on the walk, but Yuki wouldn't have it. Anyone know what's up with that? She does that a lot with other dogs.

I talked to a lady two days ago, named Di, who was walking her Cattle/border collie dog. She told me she believes it's a possibility that Yuki is being Alpha which is why she doesn't directly attacks upon meeting a dog, but afterwards she'll try to nip. Ron and I need establish more that we are the Alphas.

Time for her walk, maybe we'll run into Buster and Taz again!

-Julie

SUNDAY SOCIALIZATION

2009-06-02T13:35:00.000-07:00

It was time for Yuki's evening walk so we skateboarded with her. A lady named Amy, who was also walking her 10 y/o pooch, stopped me (while Ron & Yuki went ahead) & she asked if she was our dog. We began to conversate & she told me there are 2 other people around the neighborhood who also has shibas & they usually walk right before sunset. Ron had came back and we tried to let Yuki meet Amy's pup. Amy's pup wasn't having it & didn't want Yuki to be near her. I'll keep note to walk her here around sunset. Maybe she, or even we, will make new friends.

Later, an elderly gentlemen came with his 13 y/o hound name Snuggles. Yuki tried to sniff as usual and a fight almost happened. After Snuggles peed on the tree, Yuki tried to sniff him again and she nipped his ear & Snuggles began to bleed! I felt so bad. Snuggles went back to his apartment and had to have ointment put on him. After Snuggles left, so did Amy. Hopefully it wasn't because of what happened... Later, Tito came over with his mom.

Yuki seems to get along with Tito fine. The only thing is that I don't know how she really plays with other dogs without mistaking it as nipping/starting a fight. We all walked together, did tricks together and just hung around on the grass in the front yard.

Later, I decided to let them go in the backyard together, both off leash. Tito would run around a lot and I think Yuki was trying to play with her, but then it looked like she was trying to nip him. So we kept Tito from running. Then everything was fine. Maybe it's Yuki's hunting instincts that kicked in since Tito is small. Not sure, but she need more doggy friends -- maybe muzzled.

Random Posting.

2009-05-10T23:53:00.000-07:00

Though Ron has told me that she had cuddled with him before, yesterday was the first time she cuddled with me!

She's finally giving me a little more of her trust. Or, maybe she was tired because I woke her up early in the morning to walk. Or, she's trying to take over my bed because I always catch her when I go back into the room! What ever the reason, I enjoy the cuddling.

Then afterwards, we went out onto the balcony because she was staring outside. Before that, I make her put on the scarf, haha.

Attempt @ Socializing

2009-05-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, We visited Rio, Dana & Darwin. They have two companions, A female German Shepard name Meeko & a male Shiba name Ace.

When we got to their place, we stayed outside. Dana & Darwin already had Meeko & Ace outside from a distance. Yuki got excited as usual, not the good kind. They wanted her to be in the heel position & Dana came over to get her into the position until she calmed down. She was pretty "aggressive" meeting both dogs. Afterwards, we all went for a walk together. It was GREAT!

We came back and chilled together on the lawn. Dana began doing tricks with Ace. Once she told him to speak, Yuki started barking & tried to nip him.

Yuki doesn't get along with Meeko. Meeko is very submissive and calm. Yuki just bullies her & we had to keep Meeko inside. We had to put Yuki in MANY submissive positions when she gets excited or "aggressive". It took Yuki awhile, but she finally started to play with Ace. Then back to being "aggressive". Then began to play. I believe she wants to, but doesn't trust any dogs.

Now on walks, she gets extra "excited" when she sees another dog. We're working on her.

I think there's 2 probabilities. Well, I came to the conclusion that the person who bought her in the first place didn't really socialize her. Kept her inside. Then she became a stray. The Shelter told us she was adopted in December 2008 and became a stray again (don't really know for how long both times). During those times being a stray, I'm pretty sure she just had to fight other dogs for survival.

Wish us luck.

DRY SKIN OR FLEAS?!

2009-04-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

Yuki has been very itchy lately! She's been scratching her face a lot and where we put the flea medication. But, even before that she has been biting and scratching herself.

I think she might have an illergic reaction to SENTRYPRO flea medication. We applied it on her, I believe, two days ago. We just bought the HARTZ Ultra Guard Rid Flea & Tick Shampoo & I'm hesitant to use it because I can't find ANY reviews on it.

I think I'll just stick with Top Paw Oatmeal shampoo & return the Hartz, unless any one has a take on it? I'm afraid we might be confusing her scratching & itching with dry skin! Though, I have been getting a lot of bug bites on my arm since. We're going to give her a bath today to wash off the SENTRYPRO. I feel so bad for Yuki.

WELCOME YUKI !

2009-04-24T08:37:00.000-07:00

She was brought home April 14th 2009. We adopted her from an animal shelter. During the car ride back home, she threw up on me while her daddy was driving!

We took her on a really long walk. She was very curious and got excited around other dogs. Two fights broke out since we had her, after we let her sniff. She's been alright on walks. Doesn't get bark-crazy when she sees another calm dog. Any ideas how I can get her not to be so nipy after she sniffs dogs? That's how the fight began or when we walk and other digs are barking at her.

She didn't potty until 2 days later and she hardly ate until then. We took her to the vet on the 17th. We kept her outside until the vet called us in. She has a clean bill of health. We just need to get her fecal tested. She barked like crazy in the room because she heard dogs out of our room.

We gave her a bath a few days ago and we used treats, but ran out and she started to hate it and whined, lol. She's dirty again, how do you clean your shiba's paw?

She sleeps in side with her daddy and sometimes comes over and stays with me. She doesn't like toys, but she loves her kong -- only because there's peanut butter ! She also loves her harness because she knows she's going to go outside, so she sits there patiently for us to put it on her.

Yesterday was the first time she was being really playful with me! Running in the house telling me to follow her and wagging her booty and barking, so cute!