Reaching a Decision and Raising Caina

Caina

The subject of a dog has long been on our minds.  We have talked about a dog for several years now.  For one reason or another, we did not until now, adopt a dog.  It really was our youngest daughter that pushed us closer to our decision to get a dog.  Seeing her and all her joy around dogs was intoxicating. We wanted to keep that going.  She has high energy and we felt a dog could keep her entertained and also give her a stronger sense of responsibility.

Ironically the cat, the visiting cat, that came to our house is the one that made us realize that I probably do not have allergies to a dog.  After our last visit with a prospective dog, over a year ago, I sneezed all the way home.  I think it may have been all the cats that this dog was around.  Our dog does not make me sneeze.  And poor Shag, the cat.  He reared up and almost clawed the dog several times.  He charged her when we were outside one day.  It happened twice.  The second time I was armed with a water bottle which did not phase him in the least.  My husband took the dog to another part of the yard and I pet the cat for a long time.  I don't think he will be coming around anymore.  I really miss him. 

Our dog... It sounds funny because I never thought it would happen. 

The fourteen month, mutt girl who is very intelligent.  She learned to shake in five minutes. She is always ready to shake as long as you have a treat.  If you don't she can not be bothered with my silly commands.  What she doesn't know is that I can read and I plan to learn a lot about how to train this little smarty pants.  I want a well trained dog!

Peanut Butter Dog Treats
In a pinch they are great treats for humans too

2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup peanut butter
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 cup milk

Combine all ingredients.  Roll out and cut into desired shapes.  I used penguins here.  Bake in a preheated oven at 375F for about ten minutes depending on the size of your cut out.  After you are done baking them, place them in a pile and back in the oven while it cools off.  They will dry out and get more crispy.