Thunder and Lightning

With all of this bad weather we've been having lately I though it would be appropriate to post a link on helping a dog with its fear of thunder and lightning. I searched thru a few different articles and this one from the Humane Society is the best one I've been able to find.

http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/dogs/tips/fear_thunder_loud_noises.html



On another note here is a crazy video from November of last year. After heavy rain fall flooded some of the rivers over in Mason County the salmon were so confused that they started swimming across the roads! Check out the video to see what one lucky dog scored from all the confusion.

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/salmon-cross-flooded-road-much-dog-delight-174532713.html




Take it easy,
-Matt

TGIF!

Well folks, we made it through another work week. That's right, its Friday. To celebrate I found hilarious clips from all over the net to share with you guys, hoping to inspire some smiles on this dreary start to our weekend.

 

First off we have a dog that just REALLY wants a new kitten

 

 

I also found a similar video of a guy and his pup, who just wants a snack

 

 

Ever wonder what your pets do while you aren't at home with them?

 

 

 

Thanks for checking in! Be sure to visit on Monday to keep up on the happenings here at Fort Fido.

 

 

-Ryan

A "scent" of humor...

(Click to enlarge)

I wrangled y'all up some dog jokes today... Hopefully someone out there will give me a "sympathy chuckle" at the very least. Haha, enjoy!

A blind man walks in to a department store with his seeing eye dog on a leash. The store manager behind the customer service counter looks up, notices the customer is blind, and quickly looks away again. Out of the corner of his eye he sees the blind man start swinging the dog over his head with its leash. Shocked, the manager runs over and says, "Mister, is there a problem – is there something I can help you with?" The blind man calmly replies, "No thanks – I’m just looking around."

A burglar is stalking stealthily around the living room of the house he's just broken into. He jumps with fright when he suddenly hears a voice behind him saying "Croaoak, beware, Jesus watches you" He turns around, swings the beam of his flashlight in to direction the voice comes from and sees what indeed the voice had made him think once he was over his first fright: a parrot. The bird repeats "Croaoak, beware, Jesus watches you" The burglar walks up to the cage and asks "And what may your name be? The parrot answers "Coco." The burglar snickers and says "That's a very stupid name for a parrot." The parrot answers "Maybe, but not half as silly as Jesus for a Pitbull Terrier"

A business man enters into a large Las Vegas casino followed by his well-groomed hunting dog. The two make their way to a roulette table, and he sits down with his dog at his side. As the next game begins, the man's dog tosses a mouthful of $1000 chips onto the table. Remarkably, the numbers each chip fall on pay off. The dog quickly jumps up on the table, gathers up their winnings and heads off to another table. Not to be lost, the man quickly jumps up and follows after his dog.

 

As before, the dog tosses a mouthful of chips onto the table for betting, and once again the couple walk away winners. Not to waiver from the drill, the dog jumps up on the table, scoops up their winnings and jumps off the table. To yet another table they head. This time the man's dog dumps all of their winnings on one hand of Blackjack. Remarkably, the dealer presents an ace and king to the man. A bit shocked, the dealer presents the man with his winnings.

 

Not missing a beat, the dog hurls its massive body onto the game table, grabs all of their chips in its mouth and jumps back down to the man's side. Tired from all of the gambling, they find a bar to sit down at. The man asks for a pint of ale for his dog and just a club soda for himself. Puzzled by the man's request, and the large pile of chips at the dog's side, the bartender asks what type of dog does this very wealthy man have? Patting his canine companion on the head, he smiles and says, "An Irish Better... What else?"

Take care,

-Grant
P.S. O, I can't resist one more of these gems... How do you stop your dog from barking in your front yard? Put it in your back yard.

BaZinggg! LOL!

Yuki-Sam Twins

Every once in awhile at Fort Fido, we get some absolutely identical looking canine guests. Believe it or not, at times it can be very difficult to tell two dogs apart. One must really study the individual dogs, to find identifying attributes, then share their findings with the rest of the staff (on our communication boards).

Most importantly, when the owners arrive, we must know without a shadow of a doubt, who's who! It can be surprisingly tricky, for instance, on a "Chocolate Lab Day", when there are seven of the same breed in one play-area, to figure out exactly who "Coco" is, amongst a sea of super-similar chocolates lol... They have a tendency to melt together, especially when five+ customers arrive at once for pick-up, and you are on the fly. Luckily, we've developed some tricks, in order to make certain we know which dog is which at all times.

;)

Currently, other than a handful of Labrador Retrievers, and a couple of English Springer Spaniels, the most perplexing twin duo has to be Yuki and Sam. Both high-energy Shibu Inus, Yuki & Sam poses matching physical features, as well as matching personalities and play-styles! They are also about the same age.

They just look so darn similar...

Don't believe me? Checkout these photos we took of the "Terrible Twosome" (only kidding of course) yesterday. They are the definition of "Bash Brothers", they love to play together, hard, fast, and furiously. Click on the individual photos to enlarge them.

Hahaha, I know right? Almost indistinguishable!

Be well,

-Grant

Two awesome vids

From the net...

This first one has been on YouTube's "Most Viewed" for quite some time now. It's all about GSDs, and what they can do.

Good golly! Needless to say, no one is gonna be messing with that Junior Handler. Way to go girl!

This second clip, compliments of Juno's Dad (Thanks John!), is just plain awesome... A husky having a blast in a huge Autumn leaf pile. Too fun!

It doesn't get much cuter than that folks.

All for now, take it easy out there,

-Grant

Welcome, Eebee!

This is Eebee, she is a 1 year old, black and white, Lhasa Apso/Cocker spaniel. Eebee had her assessment this past Saturday and although she was a bit timid at first she quickly warmed up and started playing, she especially enjoyed playing with Blue (Old English Bulldog) And Sammy (Puggle).



Eebee definitely passed her assessment and is welcome back anytime.

 

 

Have a great week,
-Matt

World Record Dogs

Milly, a Puerto Rican Chihuahua has been announced by Guinness World Records as the Worlds smallest dog. When measured by height Milly stands a mere 3.8 inches tall and weighs in just under a pound! That's shorter than a soup can and lighter than one of your shoes!

 

 

While researching this article, I found some other hilarious record holding pups!

This is Puggy. He's a Pekingese with a 4.5 inch long tongue! It's so long in fact that his mom, Becky has to cut his food into small pieces so he can actually eat it.

 

 

This pup's claim to fame is for being able to hold not just one or two, but FIVE tennis balls in her mouth at once. Augie, an 8-year-old golden retriever is suited perfectly for this record.

 

 

Another catch and hold record, but this time Frisbees!

Rose, a 6-year-old Labrador retriever/border collie mix, can catch and hold up to seven Frisbees (thrown separately) in his mouth at one time. what an amazing talent!

 

 

"Tillman, an English bulldog, traveled a 100-meter stretch of parking lot in just 19.68 seconds during the 2009 X Games in Los Angeles, winning him a world record and making him the Tony Hawk of the canine world." How radical is that?? Tillman can skate better than me!!

 

 

All of these and many more can be found on This page, and includes dogs and cats with unique talents, and World Records set with those talents.

 

 

Thanks for checking in, have a pleasant weekend, and make sure to tune back in on Monday for updates of happenings here at The Fort

 

 

Happy Friday!

 

-Ryan W. 

 

 

Two New Net Gems

(Click Photo To Enlarge)

Fort Fido employee, Danielle, sent me this fun photo she took near Steilacoom. It's of this gentleman, who looks to have made, a special dog-haulin trailer for his motorcycle. Too cool lol! That pooch, which looks to be a Golden Retriever, sure is riding in style. Thanks for the pic Danielle!

Over this last weekend, I came across two hilarious canine video clips from YouTube.

Up first, is one that reached the number one spot of YouTube's "Most Viewed" for awhile. I suppose that it's really not that "Hilarious" but it is certainly remarkable none the less.

Whoa! I don't know that I would want that pup in The Fort, what an escape artist!

Video clip two here, really had me rolling. It would be fun to try this on a dog. I also like how the dog's owner mentions that he is "a little late for Dog Daycare". Hahaha! :)

Cheers,

-Grant

Rainier Rocks Ewe-topia!

Our main Catahoula Leopard Dog-Man, Rainier, just took a visit to Ewe-topia! Awhile back, I wrote about Gibson and I's adventure there... The place is awesome, and I highly recommend taking your dog there for some "Farm Fun", no matter what size or breed they are. Your dog can herd sheep, and or ducks, with no experience necessary. It's a blast! The folks that run the place are very kind and knowledgeable. There is even an off leash dog park area with some agility obstacles.

Rainier did extremely well during his visit, I was quite impressed... My "Herding Dog" Gibson, didn't get nearly as involved as Rainier did lol. First rate job boy! It looks like you'll have a career in Sheep Herding in no time... That is of course, as soon as your pops ponies up and gets you a flock. Hahaha!

;)

Enjoy this clip, sent to me from Rainier's owners, of him, busting out his herding skills on those wild and wooly sheep! Thanks for telling us about your stay there guys, and, thank you very much for the video.

Be well,

-Grant

- Ebullient Edison -

(A striking resemblance to this man? LOL!)

 

Get a load of new Fort Fido pack member Edison! He is a six month old, fourteen pound, Lhasa Apso Mix. Now, Mr. Edison, did absolutely wonderful upstairs in our Little Roll. He got along, and played, very well with the other dogs. Edison has a great temperament, he will grow into quite a well-mannered, happy, and social Adult Canine. We are pleased to have such a great little new dog amongst our ranks. Way to go "Eddie"! We'll see ya soon...

Here is a nice shot of Edison having a blast with The Fort Friend, Rusty.

Take care,

-Grant
P.S. Dogs 101 snippet on the Lhasa Apso. HERE.

Kirby & Tama

Here are 2 new members of the Fort Fido pack for you to meet.


First up is this 9 Year old black and white Papillon named Kirby. He showed up bright and early this morning for his assessment and did a great job! Despite his age Kirby is still quite an energetic dog and quickly started exploring his new environment. Although he didn't play much he seemed to enjoy watching some of the younger pups play and I'm sure after a few more visits he'll join in on the fun.

 

 

This is Tama, she is an eight year old Yorkipoo who assessed with us on Saturday. Tama also did great on her assessment and will be boarding with us soon.

 

 

 

 

 

Take it easy,

-Matt

 

 

 

 

Friday Fun

Ahh its finally Friday! Time to kick up those paws and relax. Or you could get out there with the pooch for some weekend frolicking! Here is a link to a list of off-leash dog parks and on-leash dog friendly parks where you and Fido can romp.

 

Remember to keep your pooch well hydrated and rest them often if you are planning a trip outdoors this weekend as its going to be a warm one!

 

If your looking for something you and your pal can do inside to avoid the heat, here are a couple practical options for you to consider

 

First, the dog treat puzzle, featured in another blog of ours titled Trick or Treat?

 

 

If that's not enough for Fido, Hide and seek can be a fun game, not only to play but to train as well. Follow these simple steps I found on this website and they will be seeking like a pro in no time!

 

"This activity requires two people unless the dog already follows a command to "stay." Instruct the dog to sit and stay or ask someone to keep the dog in place while you find a hiding spot. Call the dog's name one time to begin its search for you, at which point the other person would release the dog. Praise and rewards upon finding you teaches the dog to repeat the activity. The ASPCA recommends that you leave part of your body visible when hiding, as this helps the dog locate you when first learning the game, and then gradually make it more difficult for the dog to find you."

 

 

Thanks again for stopping by to read, and be sure to check in on Monday in order to keep updated on the happenings here at Fort Fido.

 

-Ryan W.

 

- My favorite Dog Memes -

Enjoy!

Good Dog Greg

Birthday Dog

Stoner Dog

Yes, this is Dog

I have no idea...

Financial Advice Dog

 

Now last, but certainly not least, although with no "origin story"... One of my top favorites.

LOL!

Cheers,

-Grant
P.S. Ok fine, one more good one! Meet Lawyer Dog. Hahaha!

Video Clips!

Hot off today's reel!

From the Medium Roll:

Shepherd Time! Featuring Bess and Kingsley.

Pancake gets down with them too!

Also, we had a whole lot of long-time pals, Lucy & Gracie, ripping it up today.

In the Big Roll:

We had some "Golden Boys", Finn & Jack, becoming the best of friends.

There was  a wee bit of "Dane Love" happening as well... You know, the love affair that is, Athena & Theodore.

Upstairs in the Little Roll, they were not to be outdone! This clip features a small cross section of today's fun-filled events.

Be well,

-Grant

Some news and funnies

NY Times My Story "Bad Dog"
This one is kinda cute and funny... You may, or may not, be able to relate to something in it. ;)

Steer your dog!
Ooo! Sign me up for an order of a few of these bad boys! I am certain I could find a use for them here at The Fort lol... O OK, you're right, I wouldn't use them here. They'd sure be useful for Military and Search & Rescue dogs out on missions though.

Dog Meets Hedgehog (Video)
Haha! That was a cute one, even though around here, we are suckers for anything that has to do with American Eskimos.

Goal scoring dog makes everyone smile (Video)
Awesome. Goalll!!!

Dogs help stressed US Military Veterans cope
I always love these types of stories. There are certainly some great programs out there. Animals truly can, and do, help in healing people.

Dog rides Roomba (Video)
I thought cats were the only ones who commandeered these things, hilarious!

8 things NOT to say to a dog owner
I'm gonna go ahead and totally, 100%, agree with this lol. Those are definitely some things better off unsaid.

Unimpressed Dog went outside once, it was awful
I find these types of "Memes" quite funny... http://knowyourmeme.com/

Lively Lucky

Lucky came in for an assessment over the weekend and did a great job! Lucky is a friendly, 7 month old Poodle/Retriever mix. Lucky chose to take it slow on his first day and didn't play a whole lot but did enjoy meeting all the other pack members and exploring his new surroundings. I'm sure after he's a bit more comfortable here he'll be playing hard with all his new friends.

 

 

Lucky did great on his assessment and we certainly were "Lucky" to have him. (Pun Intended)

 

 

 

Have a great week,

-Matt

 



Precious Piper



Our friend Riley just got a sidekick!! this is Piper, the tri-color Papillon also known as "the butterfly dog" or "Continental Toy Spaniel" and the breed hails from France. According to legend, Marie Antoinette carried a Papillon with her to the guillotine, the dog was spared and lived out the rest of it's life at a building in Paris that is still called Papillon House to this day. Great dogs, with great history! Piper is getting all of her stuff ready to come join us at The Fort and we couldn't be more excited to have her.

We have also received the newest issue of The Pet Connection's bi-monthly newsletter featuring yet another awesome article from our good friend that I'm sure some of you remember Garrett Stevens of Alpha and Omega Dog Training. So next time you're at The Fort, be sure to grab a copy of it on your way through the lobby!

 

Thanks for reading and have a fantastic weekend! Be sure to tune in Monday to check out this weekend's assessment.

 

 

-Ryan W. 

D for Diego!

We just had the wonderful opportunity of assessing Diego. He is a one year old, sixty pound, reddish colored, Golden Retriever.

Diego stayed with us in The Fort's Big Roll. He bounded in with joy, eager to make friends and have a nice time.

Although a bit on the small side for his breed, Diego's large personality makes for a remarkable addition to the pack. Diego may hangout with us here at Fort Fido anytime, and we hope that he will, lickety split.

Be well,

-Grant

Bouncing...

 

This morning we assessed Bounce! He is a lovely, one year old, 125 pound, Bernese Mountain Dog & Black Labrador Retriever Mix. Bounce is a well mannered and handsome fellow who took to the place quickly. He really did a swell job inside of The Fort's Big Roll, meeting, greeting, and having a good time with all. This benevolent canine was right at home here with the pack. We plan on seeing him again very soon for some Overnight Boarding... We have a feeling that Bounce will think of his stay as a real treat. Way to go pal, see ya soon!

Take care,

-Grant

Aero & Angle

Checkout Aero & Angel!

Aero is a fun-loving, one year old, 37 pound, Border Collie & Corgi Mix.

Aero's sis, Angel, is a gorgeous, one year old, 40 pound, Australian Cattle Dog Mix.

Both Aero and Angel had their assessments this morning in the Medium Roll. Like we anticipated, Aero, went head first into the action. He wasted no time getting to know the other pack members, playing with several of them whole-heartedly. Angel on the other hand, spoke great "Dog" like her bro, but took her time getting to know the others. She has a very sweet demeanor, and acts quite "lady-like"... Leaving the rough housing play to brother Aero.

These two canines were a pleasure to have at Fort Fido today, and they are welcome back anytime. Well done you two! Here's to seeing you again soon!

Cheers,

-Grant

Happy Labor Day!

Happy Labor Day! I hope you all had a great time this weekend and are enjoying these last few days of summer.

 

 

 

Last Friday we had the pleasure of meeting Thule, she is a very social, 2 year old Catahoula Leopard Dog. She had a great first day and played well with the other dogs in the big roll. We look forward to seeing her again soon.

 

Have a good one,

 -Matt