Happy Howl-o-ween!

Mister was a good sport this morning and put on Walker's pumpkin costume. He got lots of treats.

Jake as Lady Godiva. Oh Jakie! You look gorgeous!

Buddy as a blue-haired lady sitting in the lovely Helene Curtis beauty chair. Those are his real eyelashes.

Fall frolic

Finally feels like fall today. The wind gusts are bringing the leaves raining down. I love that the trees are giving the yard a blanket that covers up the mud. Sixteen muddy paws leads to a very messy kitchen floor-even after being toweled off. I will spare you that photo.

Mister, Jake, Paden, and Buddy are having a fun fall frolic.

Just for laughs

Two of the greatest qualities in life: Patience and Wisdom

Low cost vaccine clinic for pets

Companion Animal Ministry: For People & Their Pets

We serve dog and cat owners who require low-cost assistance with pet care. Our Low-Cost Vaccine Clinic for Pets, held twice per year in spring and fall, includes a basic exam, rabies/distemper combo & parvo vaccinations. Veterinarian and vet techs on site, $20.00 suggested donation per pet. Low-cost microchipping available for an added fee. A portion of proceeds benefits the Animal Humane Society.

Call for dates and times: Cathie Witzel, 612-788-2444.

Next Clinic: Saturday, Oct. 31: 10:00am to 2:00pm.

Northeast Community Lutheran Church

697 13th Ave NE

Mpls, MN 55413

Pet Food Assistance: NECL's "Little Kitchen" Food Shelf has access to pet food for people with pets in need. Call 612-788-2444 for more information.

Sammy is adopted!

Sammy is jumping for joy because she was finally adopted. Congratulations Sammy on finding your forever home. Thanks to Gayle and Elizabeth for fostering this Pet Haven pooch for an entire year. Who knew Sammy was already home all along. Gayle, it has been great seeing you more this past year. Let's keep it up.

Canine brother Rusty does not look overjoyed here but the word is Sammy has been teaching him how to be a playful dog. He is not sure about sharing his squeaky toy though. But Sammy does not mind, she has plenty of her own toys. Miss Sammy, you are a lucky girl!

Paden's visit

Paden, pictured above on the left, came for a visit this afternoon. She is a foster dog available for adoption through Pet Haven. Paden is housetrained and is working on crate training. She and Jake, our Pet Haven foster dog and pictured above on the right, played and played. They are both young, energetic dogs that would require daily exercise. They get along with other dogs. Jake has even lived with cats. While I watched football these two played a game of their own. Both of them would love to come and play with you-forever.

All American Dog Fest-this Sunday

This in from Sidewalk Dog-In early 2007, Bless the Bullys: Pit Bull Rescue & Education in Tennessee introduced the idea of an annualNational Pit Bull Awareness Day,encouraging pit bull advocates everywhere to host celebratory events in an effort to garner positive media attention, promote responsible ownership and combat existing stereotypes.

In honor of this year’s National Pit Bull Awareness Day (officially October 24),MN Bully Lovers is hosting its first annual “All-American Dog Fest“to “celebrate all breeds of dogs while highlighting positive traits of the American Pit Bull Terrier.” The free event is this Sunday, October 25, from 12-5 p.m atWest St. Paul Armory Training and Community Center, andwell-behaved dogs of all breeds* are welcome to attend with their owners.

Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to on Sunday:

• Indoor activity/demonstration area:contests, an animal communication demo with Janet Roper of Talk2theAnimals,a demo by the Minnesota Disc Dog Club and afood drive to benefit The Pet Project
• Outdoor activity/demonstration area:aNADSR sanctioned weight pull and Canine Good Citizen testing
• Appearances by celebrity pitties Ruby (nationally recognized therapy and service dog),Wallace (2007 Purina Incredible Dog Challenge National Champion and World Finalist) andHector (certified therapy dog rescued from the Michael Vick fighting operation)
• Guest speakers galore, including Maureen Haggerty of The Canine Coach (dog aggression), Sage Lewis of Dancing Porcupine (animal communication and Tellington TTouch) and Kellie Dillner of A Rotta Love Plus (dogs and kids)
• Screening of the new documentary Wallace – The Rise of an Underdog
• Representatives from pit-loving rescuesA Rotta Love Plus, Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue andGemini Rottweiler and Pitbull Rescue
• Fabulous exhibitors, including yours truly, Sidewalk Dog(we’ll be sharing a booth with K9-Connection)
• Silent auction
• And more!

Hope to see you and your pooch—pit bull or not—there.

*That’s right! All breeds are welcome to attend this event. In fact, according to the “All-American Dog Fest” Web site, theirgoal for this year is equal representation of all breeds. “Often, many pit bull and other ‘bully breed’ owners leave their dogs at home because of the negative stigma attached to the breed. ‘All-American Dog Fest’ provides responsible owners of any breed the opportunity to show off their well-behaved dog at a non-judgemental public event. Whether you have a chihuahua, a golden retriever, or a pit bull, we hope we’ll see you and your dog at the event!”

The Pet Project "All-American Dog Fest" is also collecting food for The Pet Project on Sunday! It's going to be a really fun event, so get out there! (and don't forget to bring pet food)

Happiness is.......

.....a huge pile of pillows. Snuggle bunny Jake, from Pet Haven would love to call your pillows his own. He has been in our home for two months. He is one of the easiest foster dogs we have ever had. Jake has come a long way from the hoarder situation he lived in as a puppy. He would be great for an active family with a big fenced yard or a single person that lives in a condo. All he needs is a soft place to nap and lots of love. Simple. Give him a chance.

Suzy says Pet Haven rocks!

Hi, it's me, Suzy, again. No I am not at Rescue Buddy Boarding any more. I blew that pop stand yesterday. As fun as it is to visit, there is no place like home. My parents came home last night and I was so excited to see them. And mom told me how much she missed me. There was some talk about the wedding being perfect but mostly it was all about me. Just like I wanted. I did hear something about a video being played during the reception that had an entire part devoted to pictures of me. Oh I feel so much better now. And do you know how cool my parents are. They donated money from their dollar dance to Pet Haven. My mom said that they would not have me, such a wonderful dog, if it weren't for Pet Haven. You got that right mom. Pet Haven rocks! I want to thank Pet Haven too for giving a big black dog a chance.

Oh and Jake...........I kind of miss you. I hope you find a good home soon. Please check out Jake's bio. He is such a sweet boy, good with other dogs, and ready for a forever home just like mine.

Now you two dear parents of mine, you took today off so let's go outside and play.

Sarah and Adam, from all of us at Pet Haven we would like to thank you so much for your generous donation and most of all thank you for giving Suzy the best possible home ever. Congratulations and many wonderful years of poochie-filled wedded bliss!

Suzy's wedding day thoughts

OK mom and dad your wedding day is over, thank goodness. Congrats and all, but for months it is all I have heard about. I know you were very excited about yesterday. And I understand there were a lot of things to think about. Wedding guests this and cake tasting that. Where were the guests going to sit and why didn't Aunt Mable respond. Who is Aunt Mable anyway? Is she that lady that screamed at me when I jumped up on her just to get a closer look? Something about a new dress. Whatever. While I hope your big day was perfect it is now time to focus on me. Now it's going to be all about me, your little doggie daughter. Oh and I did hear some talk about going away on a honeymoon. Well it better be a doogiemoon or I just may pee on someone's new carpeting. Not a threat or anything I just get nervous with change. I am looking forward to seeing you later today. Kiss Kiss!

PS-Just wanted to say it has been great staying at Rescue Buddy for a few days. I met a nice young boy named Jake. He is looking for a home through Pet Haven just like I was last year. He really likes me but I am playing it cool. He even tried to kiss me. I was not too thrilled. Just do not see the point. I am way to young to be tied down. One wedding in the family is enough for now. Get back Jake! This girl's got some squirrels to chase!

Suzy's parents get married

Congratulations mom and dad on your wedding day. I am having lots of fun. I even dressed up for your big day. I hope it was swell! See you tomorrow. I love you. Suzy

Suzy flashback

Suzy, a former Pet Haven foster dog of ours is staying with us while her mom and dad are getting married. Here is a repost of the day they got engaged and how Suzy was adopted. It still brings tears to my eyes.

Suzy: A 3 Heart Night

On Wednesday night, Suzy was part of her future dad's surprise proposal to the woman who has been in love with her since last summer. Suzy sat quietly next to Adam's side as he popped the question. Sarah said "YES!" and Adam slipped the most gorgeous ring on Sarah's finger. He also slipped a leash into her hand. Along with promising to marry Sarah, Adam also promised to provide a loving home for Suzy - another surprise for Sarah. Suzy gave Sarah a Valentine to seal the deal. I am not sure which surprise Sarah was most excited about - a husband to be or a new dog? One thing is for certain, Sarah could not be more excited to move forward in life with both of them by her side.

Sarah and Adam are now vacationing on a warm beach until the end of the month. But on their return, Suzy will be going to her forever home with her favorite girl, and her favorite girl's favorite guy. There's a wedding to plan after all and Suzy has to put her paw print on all the decisions. Wouldn't she make the best flower girl? Dreams do come true.

Here's a note to Suzy's foster from Sarah the morning after the big moment:

I can not even begin to express my excitement and outstanding joy to be officially adopting Suzy. I have wanted to do this since the first time I brought her home with me and she is SO loved by us. She made for a perfect engagement and I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful (and extremely well-planned) proposal. Thank you so much for helping Adam make an incredible memory. We have a wonderful story to share for years and we are really looking forward to having Suzy be the first member of our family. Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU! Can't wait to see her when we get back!!! I just can't get over how everything has come together....I can't stop smiling! Thank you again, for making it so special! ALSO - the VALENTINE from Suzy is so sweet and brought tears to my eyes.

I think anyone can see the Sarah-Suzy bond in their New Year's Eve photo. :)


Congratulations to Sarah, Adam and Suzy! Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!

Nordeast fashion week

Charm is sporting the new look for fall in nordeast Minneapolis, complete with snow booties that she actually wears. Her mom had this coat specially designed for Charm by a woman from Urbanimal. Unfortunately when Charm's mom dropped her off at Rescue Buddy Boarding it was a beautiful fall day so there was not even a thought of packing winter wear. Who knew it would snow one day later. Maybe we can design a new coat for Charm to wear while she is here. Or maybe my mom will knit one of those sweaters for her (got the hint Claudia). For now Charm is very content to stay inside as much as possible till spring. Smart girl!

Napping dogs. Ahhhhhhhhhh!

It was a busy morning at Rescue Buddy Boarding. As Gideon and Bishop were arriving, Walker was getting ready to leave for school. There was lots of running and playing and I think for once Walker was glad to head off to the bus. Then Jack arrived and there was more excitement and running and playing. Once all dogs got acquainted and tired out it was time to go inside for a rest. And that hot cup of coffee for me at last! It was then I noticed I had run the coffee water through yesterday's grounds. Nice!! Let's just say that I am not much of a morning person. All dogs are resting now only four hours after first meeting. Shhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ok so much for napping dogs. The phone just rang and we all know what that means. Dogs go wild!!! Outside we go again. At least I have had my coffee. Yes with new grounds.

Puppy coats

Puppy coats are ready to go up to Red Lake Rosie's Rescue. They are easy and fun to make. Did not make a dent in the fabric pile. Karen will let me know which style works best to keep her puppies warm. Then the fleece can go flying through the machine.

Snow-day 2.

Buddy is always ready to go outside and chase squirrels even in the snow. Charm and Jake-not so much. I love the way they look at each other like, " That lady has lost her mind if she thinks we are going out in that snow". I am with those two and would rather stay in all winter.

Coats for Red Lake puppies

Here is my mom, Janice and all of the sweaters she has knit so far to keep the puppies at Red Lake Rosie's Rescue warm this winter. She is enjoying having something to keep her hands busy while she cheers on the Vikings, Cornhuskers, or whatever team happens to be playing. She does have instructions if anyone would like to help. Thanks mom!

OK so this is what I have done so far-arrange fabric in neat piles. Mom wins. I will be sewing coats out of fleece because knitting was never my thing. But my first business was "Seams Right", a dressmaking/alterations business, so I should be able to whip up some coats in no time. And yes mom taught me to sew when I was quite young. Her mother was a dressmaker too.

The coats and sweaters will be traveling to Red Lake next week for a modeling session and photo shoot. Thanks Denise! Then we will know more about what styles and sizes work best for Karen's little ones, like cutie pie Regina pictured above. If any of you have sewing skills or love to knit let me know. Extra fleece would be appreciated too.

First snow

This was not what I expected when I woke up this morning. Mister was puzzled by the ice in the water bowl. So was I.

Charm did not want to come off the deck. She is a Louisiana girl after all. She finally ventured into the yard for a moment. She is not impressed with the lack of fall. Neither am I.

Jake does not even like to go out in the rain. He needs a sweater and maybe some boots.

And then there is Buddy bred to spring game from the frozen fields. A little snow does not stop him. He was ready to play with his elephant.

Fur-niture

I used to be the person that never let the dogs on the furniture. Especially when it came to the foster dogs. My thought was that I did not know what future adopters would prefer so it was better for the dogs to be taught to stay on a dog bed on the floor. Just like little Jake, our Pet Haven foster dog, here in the photo above who loves his floor pillow. They are dogs after all, right? And the beds are very plush and comfy.

Well.................now look! Sleeping beauties Buddy, Mister, and Charm.

If I could take a year off.........?

Most of you know me as the crazy dog lady now running a dog boarding business, Rescue Buddy Boarding & Beyond out of my home. What you may not know is this business was born while taking a year off from my former business as an art fair artist-AKA Twisted Sister,the crazy bead lady. I did the art fair circuit for 12 years selling sculptures created out of tiny seed beads. Now that I think about my work, a lot of the pieces were dogs. And I did not even have a dog at the

time. Foreshadowing? Hmmm?

Most of this time was quite enjoyable. And I was able to support my son while making art.

My motto was: "I make art to feed my soul. I sell art to feed my son".

The art fair community was a nomadic tribe of creative loving folks that would go out of their way to help their fellow artisans. And I felt like I was living the retired life by having lazy mornings and creating art all day in my slippers. Sounds romantic right? Well try hauling a 60lb tent through the mud in the pouring rain. Or sitting out in that tent in 100 degree weather trying to sell jewelry that no one really needs. Would you pay your employer $500 to sit on a slab of concrete while doing your job for two days and maybe only make that $500 back? Romance gone yet? Well I promised myself that I would not be hauling that tent around when I was 60. And all along I would dream about "taking a year off" from the art fair craziness.

My chance to do just that came in 2008. The circumstances that allowed me to do this financially

will be discussed in a future post. Let me just say that if any of you or your family has a rare type of lung cancer, mesothelioma, please call a lawyer immediately. Thanks dad for providing for your family even after you have passed.

2008 was to be a year totally filled with art making. No thought to "will this sell" which for me

was always a creativity downer. But to my surprise as weeks went by the less I was making or even thinking about art. More and more time was being spent rescuing dogs by volunteering with Pet Haven. The rewards were instant and certainly not financial. But the lack of cash did not deter me. Being self-employed since I was 27, money was never a big part of my drive and it had always arrived when needed. So I continued on this new exciting path helping to rehome dogs. To see a shy starving pup blossom into a bouncing playful dog with just a little love and good nutrition was worth way more than any paycheck.

Throughout the year, I did question myself about making art. But as 2008 turned to 2009 my passion for helping dogs was showing me my future. Rescue Buddy Boarding & Beyond was born as a way to feed my soul and feed my son. RB3 is still in its infancy. Thanks to all of you that helped make my dream come true. My 60th birthday is a still a few years off and that 60lb tent is now only set up during garage sales.

RB3 is fostering our 27th dog Jake and we welcome adopted rescue dogs into our home every week while their owners are taking time off. As for making art , I have revamped my studio and the creative juices are flowing. There is a cat teapot patiently waiting to come alive. No I am not going to turn into the crazy cat lady.

This video inspired me to write this posting. Maybe it will inspire you too. What would you do if you had a year off?

Stefan Sagmeister: The power of time off | Video on TED.com

Source: www.ted.com

TED Talks Every seven years, designer Stefan Sagmeister closes his New York studio for a yearlong sabbatical to rejuvenate and refresh their creative outlook. He explains the often overlooked value of time off and shows the innovative projects inspired by his time in Bali.

Blue Elephant Parade

Do any of you have dogs that parade around with stuffed toys? For15 minutes? Around and around? Buddy our springer does this when someone comes to visit. He grabs a toy and starts pacing the house very slowly. He also does it when he gets a new toy. Or when he is the only dog and gets to have his favorite toy, a stuffed beaver. He loves it so much that he does not like to share it with visiting dogs.

Here is Buddy parading outside with his blue elephant.

Miss Gribbles again

Hi it's me again, Miss Princess Gribbles. Wow what a difference a day makes. Today I am feeling right at home here at Rescue Buddy Boarding. Last night I even slept downstairs all by myself just like I do in my own home. And those annoying boys I told you about yesterday are actually kind of fun to play with. You should see Mister run around the yard like he was in a race or something. Is he part Greyhound?

And Jake is so sweet. I even let he nap on my bed. Little does he know, I do not even use that floor pillow. Why would I when I can sit on top of the couch where I can see all that is going on in this neighborhood. Oh gotta go. My mom is back from Brainerd. Yippeee! See ya boys!

Miss Gribbles

Hello my name is Gribbles. That is Miss Princess Gribbles to all of you in blog world. I am writing today to tell you about this new house I have been hanging out at since yesterday. My mom brought me here just for the weekend. She said something about going off to see her brother in Brainerd. At first I was very confused and drooled a lot. Something a princess just does not do in public. But once I got settled in I began to relax. There is a nice lady here that feeds me and lets me hang out with her on the couch. There are comfy dog beds and lots of toys to play with. And meals are right on schedule. There are other dogs here too but they are kind of annoying. Buddy, Mister, and Jake are all young boy dogs that like to run around and play silly games. Certainly not very ladylike activities. I would rather watch the world go by out the front window. Fascinating! And tiring for a girl my age. Well I think I will go take a little after dinner nap.

Pet Haven adoption event tomorrow!

Come out and meet our newest foster dog, Jake at the Eden Prairie Petco from 10-12. He is a pointer maybe boxer mix that is about 2 years old. He is one of the sweetest dogs you will ever meet. Jake is a bit shy at first but once he is warmed up he will not leave your side. Jake would be best in a family with another playful dog and older kids. You can read more about him on his Pet Haven bio.

Here is what the Pet Haven blog says about tomorrow's event. Hope to see you there.

"Pet Haven will be having a dog adoption event tomorrow (Saturday) from 10 am - Noon at the Eden Prairie Petco. The address is 8020 Glen Lane, Eden Prairie (952.829.8808).

We hope you'll stop by to say hi and meet many of our adoptadogs. Not only is Maggie (below) looking for her forever home ... she's also looking for someone to foster her. She's getting lots of love and attention at one of our partner doggie daycares (Pampered Pooch Playground), however, the sooner we can move her into a foster the better for her .. it also opens up a foster slot for us at Pampered Pooch -- and that means saving another dog!

There will be many other dogs there --- small dogs, medium size dogs, large dogs, active dogs, calm dogs, couch potato dogs ... and dogs of all colors and lengths of fur! Our screeners will be happy to match you up with the a dog that will fit your lifestyle."