Cruising With A Service Dog....everything You Ever Wanted To Know!

[sunshine426]

I sometimes wonder how our conversations would go live without the filter of the internet...or lack of filter. Dog Wars! I knew when I read Roz's post about airport security it would ruffle some feathers. Happy Turkey Day to all my dog loving friends. I'll give "Cooler" and her roomates..."Pretty" and "Bam" greetings from all my CC friends.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Sunshine: After being in law enforcement for 24 years, I usually do what a person in "authority" asks me to do, as long as it does not violate me. My hubby on the other hand has different ideas. One time going thru the metal detector for a cruise, my belt set it off, I froze and put my arms up. Must have looked like an idiot, but I didn't feel like having Stella the scanner operator jumping on my back and skidding me across the floor on my face. My husband who was behind me, starts running his mouth, "Why did you stop?" I said "didn't you hear the alarm going off?" He said "Yeah, so what?People act differently. I wasn't sure how Stella would react.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Had a Jezzy issue to attend to. Anyway, your pups could make for an interesting topic also! Pretty, Bam and Cooler, how cute! I guess your evening will not be boring.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

I sometimes wonder how our conversations would go live without the filter of the internet...or lack of filter. Dog Wars! I knew when I read Roz's post about airport security it would ruffle some feathers. Happy Turkey Day to all my dog loving friends. I'll give "Cooler" and her roomates..."Pretty" and "Bam" greetings from all my CC friends.

Love those "feathers!" I can "pluck" em with best of them...We may need to hold, on it could be a bumpy ride!!!! :eek: Am I in trouble, or what!!!! :D I may need to be rescued! :cool:

"Pretty" and "Bam", how cute are they? :)

[TheServiceDogTrainer]

OK, as someone who flys, literally all over the world, including Muslim countries that don't care for dogs, and flys usually once to twice a month, I think I might be pretty qualified to give responses/advice on the subject, so here goes:

1) Do not take the dog's pack/harness off. This signifies, usually, that the dog is off duty, which isn't something I want. TSA is required to allow the dog to go through without taking that off. Some don't realize it, and will have to call a supervisor...but, it always works out in the end.

2) Carry on you a copy of TSA regs regarding a service animal. Alert them, at the beginning that you will need someone to pat the dog down. Why? Some of the TSA agents are afraid of dogs, or uncomfortable, so they will need to "swap" places with someone else.

3) Teach your dog to stand for being "wanded". You can do this at home by teaching/reinforcing a stand stay. Use a curling iron, or ruler, or something similar to work the dog----it can be frightening to them.

4) I do take the leash off my dogs, put them in a sit/stay, put the leash in bowl and walk through. I then stop, call my dogs to come, and re-attach the leash.

*****If your dog will not work off leash in highly distractable area, then, as a trainer, I would be seriously questioning the training behind your dog. I would call the organization for a refresher course. Sorry if that offends, but to have a dog that cannot be trusted off leash in a crowded area, has no business with the classification as a service dog, in my opinion. ****

5) I do not feed my dogs after the previous eve feeding. I do not feed the AM of a flight. Period. I do not offer water once AT THE AIRPORT. Even if I am flying to Europe. I can go to the bathroom, my dog can't on the flight.

6) I will feed early in the AM of the flight(about 2 hours before landing.)

Just a few thoughts.

Now, on to another subject....TO the person whose son has a new dog: Suggestion: Join a couple of local obedience classes. It is a great bonding experience, and reinforces what you have been taught.

[wizard-of-roz]

OK, as someone who flys, literally all over the world, including Muslim countries that don't care for dogs, and flys usually once to twice a month, I think I might be pretty qualified to give responses/advice on the subject, so here goes:

1) Do not take the dog's pack/harness off. This signifies, usually, that the dog is off duty, which isn't something I want. TSA is required to allow the dog to go through without taking that off. Some don't realize it, and will have to call a supervisor...but, it always works out in the end.

2) Carry on you a copy of TSA regs regarding a service animal. Alert them, at the beginning that you will need someone to pat the dog down. Why? Some of the TSA agents are afraid of dogs, or uncomfortable, so they will need to "swap" places with someone else.

3) Teach your dog to stand for being "wanded". You can do this at home by teaching/reinforcing a stand stay. Use a curling iron, or ruler, or something similar to work the dog----it can be frightening to them.

4) I do take the leash off my dogs, put them in a sit/stay, put the leash in bowl and walk through. I then stop, call my dogs to come, and re-attach the leash.

*****If your dog will not work off leash in highly distractable area, then, as a trainer, I would be seriously questioning the training behind your dog. I would call the organization for a refresher course. Sorry if that offends, but to have a dog that cannot be trusted off leash in a crowded area, has no business with the classification as a service dog, in my opinion. ****

5) I do not feed my dogs after the previous eve feeding. I do not feed the AM of a flight. Period. I do not offer water once AT THE AIRPORT. Even if I am flying to Europe. I can go to the bathroom, my dog can't on the flight.

6) I will feed early in the AM of the flight(about 2 hours before landing.)

Just a few thoughts.

Now, on to another subject....TO the person whose son has a new dog: Suggestion: Join a couple of local obedience classes. It is a great bonding experience, and reinforces what you have been taught.

No offense taken.....I think I'm the one you're addressing on the leash [on/off] issue. Of course Brenda will stand/sit/stay/lay down, etc., etc. on command and will ALWAYS allow for others to wand/swipe/pat or whatever is needed. I just will NEVER take any chances with her. Maybe I'm being paranoid about it [I fly mostly alone] DH won't fly anymore.....but, I always insist that she be leashed. And, like you, we've been in every TSA situation, in many countries.

We've even been patted down to the extent that the agent asked me remove an undergarment! She did a "pat down" that would have made anyone shy from flying again. All the while I was so intent on Brenda and her safety. She's my life......being overly cautious can't hurt.

I always watch the TSA worker who is patting Brenda down. If they're overly aggressive or fearful, I ask for someone else.

Once, in Zurich Switzerland a dog being handled by a security officer attacked Brenda.......it was a huge lesson learned for me. It made me very fearful and protective of her. I have never seen Brenda like that and I hope not to ever again! Had she had a leash on her, as well as the "security dog", this NEVER could have happened. She and I both carry the scars of that incident with us.

[wizard-of-roz]

Let's get back to cruising, please!!!!! I just got an email from Allison Muff of the Princess Access Deptartment.

Wait, I'll back up.......I sent an email to Allison Muff [allisonm@princesscruises.com] to let her know that we would be cruising this coming Saturday. I told her all my information and that I was requesting a Potty Box be put in the stariwell closest to our cabin. I love this location - it's perfect for every possible reason!

I requested that the "litter" be mulch/wood shavings or artificial turf. NO SAND OR PAPER PELLETS.

She wrote me back and told me that she directed my email to the Hotel Manager and it will be taken care of.

If it's not to my liking upon my arrival - I will contact the HM myself.

Yippee! Only 4 days to go!!!!!!! I'm playing the theme song in my head.......Love Boat, Loves Sweetest Rewards...............

[sunshine426]

Oh my goodness...I really do not want to step into the fray. Dog Wars indeed. I would caution a brand new service dog/recepient team about obediance classes, UNLESS, that is something the program they graduated from would advise. Service dog training does differ from program to program and would hate to see a dog who has been trained with "choice" training, or positive rewards, suddenly be in a group class with a more "assertive" style.

And while I agree a service dog, especially a frequent traveler, should be comfortable and confident in a busy area, their is a reason we have leashes and humans on the end of them. While I am pretty confident with many of the young dogs I work with, I would NEVER drop their leash, unless I am in a fenced and protected area. Certainly not in a busy airport. Can you imagine if a female dog in heat just happened to be traveling in the same area....... Hormones "could" overpower training.


I agree, let's return to cruising...Unless specefic advise is requested.....

[wizard-of-roz]

Oh my goodness...I really do not want to step into the fray. Dog Wars indeed. I would caution a brand new service dog/recepient team about obediance classes, UNLESS, that is something the program they graduated from would advise. Service dog training does differ from program to program and would hate to see a dog who has been trained with "choice" training, or positive rewards, suddenly be in a group class with a more "assertive" style.

And while I agree a service dog, especially a frequent traveler, should be comfortable and confident in a busy area, their is a reason we have leashes and humans on the end of them. While I am pretty confident with many of the young dogs I work with, I would NEVER drop their leash, unless I am in a fenced and protected area. Certainly not in a busy airport. Can you imagine if a female dog in heat just happened to be traveling in the same area....... Hormones "could" overpower training.


I agree, let's return to cruising...Unless specefic advise is requested.....

Thank you, Sunshine, our voice of reason. Let's cruise!!!!!

[krisnme]

Sorry to open that can of worms! I really am just soaking up all the good advice, and I am sure we will figure out what will work best when we get to it. we are used to traveling a lot by plane, train, car and more recently boat and DS has always been a wonderful traveler so I hope Annie will adjust quickly to our meandering ways! Our trainer also runs several types of behavior and sporting groups so there are always options to expand on Annies training. My DS actually loves to watch "fly-balling" and hopes eventually to train her for this. My hope is to cruise again as soon as we feel confident. We haven't used a H/c cabin yet but I think it is time. DS is not as mobile as he used to be and the extra space for Annie would be nice. If you all ever get all together for a cruise, let us know!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:

Krisnme: Its not you that opened a can of worms. Its just that everyone has an opinion of what is best, but best for them is not always best for others. I am sure you will do the right thing. It is a plus that you have done extensive traveling and that your son is a great traveler. One less thing you have to worry about. I bet Annie will settle in nicely and also be the best traveler. I don't even have a SD! I have worked with Special needs kids, had a big ole yellow lab, love animals and stumbled across the thread. I have been here for awhile and love all the information that I gleam from it. I have suggested to a few moms about getting SD for their kids. I would have never thought about it if I had not started reading this forum. So, please stick around. We go around, but as far as I know, we are all adults and have tough skin. The about of knowledge far out weighs the squabbling.

Now, back to cruising. I NEED A CRUISE! 24F and feels like 9F with the wind blowing. Tomorrow is supposed to be colder? How can that be? I will adjust, I will adjust, I will adjust..............

[wizard-of-roz]

Sorry to open that can of worms! I really am just soaking up all the good advice, and I am sure we will figure out what will work best when we get to it. we are used to traveling a lot by plane, train, car and more recently boat and DS has always been a wonderful traveler so I hope Annie will adjust quickly to our meandering ways! Our trainer also runs several types of behavior and sporting groups so there are always options to expand on Annies training. My DS actually loves to watch "fly-balling" and hopes eventually to train her for this. My hope is to cruise again as soon as we feel confident. We haven't used a H/c cabin yet but I think it is time. DS is not as mobile as he used to be and the extra space for Annie would be nice. If you all ever get all together for a cruise, let us know!

You will love, love traveling with your Service Dog, it's just the best fun in the world. Oh! Don't get me wrong.....it's a lot more work....such as, I never thought that when the trainers said to "walk your dog", they meant in the rain, sleet, snow and puddles. It's why I like cruising so much.....the potty is INSIDE!!!!! And, exercising can be done by walking the ships Promenade Deck.....or, walking inside the entire ship......miles and miles of nothing but smiles!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:

Krisnme: Its not you that opened a can of worms. Its just that everyone has an opinion of what is best, but best for them is not always best for others. I am sure you will do the right thing. It is a plus that you have done extensive traveling and that your son is a great traveler. One less thing you have to worry about. I bet Annie will settle in nicely and also be the best traveler. I don't even have a SD! I have worked with Special needs kids, had a big ole yellow lab, love animals and stumbled across the thread. I have been here for awhile and love all the information that I gleam from it. I have suggested to a few moms about getting SD for their kids. I would have never thought about it if I had not started reading this forum. So, please stick around. We go around, but as far as I know, we are all adults and have tough skin. The about of knowledge far out weighs the squabbling.

Now, back to cruising. I NEED A CRUISE! 24F and feels like 9F with the wind blowing. Tomorrow is supposed to be colder? How can that be? I will adjust, I will adjust, I will adjust..............


You may be "frozen", you may look and feel like a "popsicle" but your OURS and you better stick around. You've been the most wonderful, positive and uplifiting friend to this forum and we wouldn't be the same without "our" Nancy!

Now, go roast that turkey or whatever!!!!!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Oh Roz, you're the best! You can't get rid of me that easy. No turkey until probably Friday. We are invited over to families house tomorrow for "open house". Just buffet, you know stuff yourself all day! I am doing a small ham tonight and letting ride.

I am getting excited about your cruise. I have that funny feeling in my tummy just like I need to be getting ready. Too funny, and ridiculous at the same time. Does Ms. Brenny have her formal collars out to be packed? Ms. Diva would be so embarassed to be under dressed in the dining room, even if you "make" her sit under the table! :D

Here's to safe travels and a magnificent cruise!

[wizard-of-roz]

Oh Roz, you're the best! You can't get rid of me that easy. No turkey until probably Friday. We are invited over to families house tomorrow for "open house". Just buffet, you know stuff yourself all day! I am doing a small ham tonight and letting ride.

I am getting excited about your cruise. I have that funny feeling in my tummy just like I need to be getting ready. Too funny, and ridiculous at the same time. Does Ms. Brenny have her formal collars out to be packed? Ms. Diva would be so embarassed to be under dressed in the dining room, even if you "make" her sit under the table! :D

Here's to safe travels and a magnificent cruise!


What!!!!!!! Are you a witch or something? It's the first thing I did this morning, before we left for work. I got out all her collars and, I must admit [a little embarrassed about this], she has a different "foo-foo" collar for each day. I'm also bringing some scarfs just in case she changes clothes mid-day.

She has a beauty shop appointment at 10:00 with her boyfriend. [Don't tell PaPa!] His name is Philip and he loves her as much as she loves him. It's the cutest thing to watch her demeanor when I park my car and open her door. She's so, so happy! She loves the beauty thing!!!!!

I'm excited too! I can't wait to see that huge, behemath ship as I'm driving to the dock. Goosebumps, goosebumps!!!!! :p

I bought my rubbermaid container at Target and I'm starting to load it with water, fan, my favorite pillow, etc., etc. I'll do the rest on Friday.

Thank you for your good wishes, they mean a lot to me. :)

[S.S. Cruisers]

Roz: I certainly am a witch, probably not the kind you were thinking! :D Reno loved to go to the vets office. He would go in and when I was checking in he would stand up with both paws on the front desk. The girls loved him. They would coo at him and he would eat it up. He loved his lady vets, the guys not so much.

I bet Ms. Brenny is gonna be looking and smelling all foo foo'd up! Give her huggles and kisses from me and Jezzy Lou.

[rangeley]

Everyone have a great turkey day!!!!


Roz, Have an awesome cruise!!!! We will be thinking of you all week!

[sunshine426]

Last year at this time I was preparing to cruise on the Sapphire Princess. I got out of cooking and cleaning on Thanksgiving, and Mr Sunshine got a "by" on hanging outdoor Christmas Lights! We had so much fun, but how much more fun if Roz, Morley and Brenny had been on. Why can't we all go on a cruise together. OK, I know, John has issues with flying to the west coast, Morey has issues flying completley, and we have issues with $$$$ these days. OK, let's make a pact: we will all have our own cc meet and greet and shake paws. I'll bring the milk bones!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Everyone have a great turkey day!!!!


Roz, Have an awesome cruise!!!! We will be thinking of you all week!

Thank you!

[wizard-of-roz]

Last year at this time I was preparing to cruise on the Sapphire Princess. I got out of cooking and cleaning on Thanksgiving, and Mr Sunshine got a "by" on hanging outdoor Christmas Lights! We had so much fun, but how much more fun if Roz, Morley and Brenny had been on. Why can't we all go on a cruise together. OK, I know, John has issues with flying to the west coast, Morey has issues flying completley, and we have issues with $$$$ these days. OK, let's make a pact: we will all have our own cc meet and greet and shake paws. I'll bring the milk bones!!!

You are on! Even if I have to go without Morey and it's just Brenny and me......I'll make every effort. I'd love to be with all of you.

I'll bring the bandana's!

[sunshine426]

Woo Hoo!!!!! Sounds good to me. Until then...Vaya Con Dios and Safe Travels. See you on the flip side.....

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Oww, oww, can I come too? I promise NOT to bring Jezzy Lou the little snapper dog. I wish you all could see the little angel right now. She is asleep in the window seat in her sock monkey bed, with the flannel baby blanket in it Even though it is only 24F degrees outside the nice sun coming through the window is nice and toasty. Leann Emily is on her purr pad in front of the heater register and in hog heaven. Life is good!

Roz, Roz, I still have that excited feeling about your cruise! I have been beating those cruise sites to death. I opened an email this morning that wanted me to "click" here to send a cruise as a gift. Yeah, right, gift to ME! LOL.

Hope everyone has a wonderful and warm day.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

I'm sitting down for "one minute".....I'm exhausted and need a break. I've finished packing all of Brenny's food/grooming aids/medicine/balls/"stuffies"/food dish/collapsible water dish/collars/her Heartguard for Dec. and, I'm so done! :(

My suggestion: Always keep the food/medicines in your carry-on, just in case of that "God-forbid" moment, when the stuff you drop-off at the dock doesn't make it to your cabin. :mad: In all the cruises we've taken and it now numbers over 24 [13 for Brenny], we have NEVER missed getting our luggage, extra containers or water delivered to our cabin, before dinner.

That said, "stuff" does happen so be prepared to have your dogs necessities with you.

I'm Happy, I'm Happy, I'm Happy - Two more days and Princess Take Me Away!!!!!!!

I wish you all a warm and loving Thanksgiving and another year filled with wonderful moments with our Service Dogs and Furbaby's. Oh! Yeah! And, our human's. ;)

Love & Licks,
Roz & Brenny

[dobiemom]

Roz, I board the Oosterdam this Saturday and we'll be in Cabo San Lucas together. I'll wave at you on the Sapphire Princess (I think you mentioned that Brenda doesn't like to tender) but I'll look for you just in case. I hope Morey goes with you. Have a great cruise! :)

[rangeley]

Hope everyone had a great turkey day!

Roz, Have a safe and relaxing trip! You, Morey and Brenny deserve it! Hugs, kisses and licks to you all!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Roz: I know I already said it, but have a blast. See you in about a week!

Everyone else have a great weekend.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Roz, I board the Oosterdam this Saturday and we'll be in Cabo San Lucas together. I'll wave at you on the Sapphire Princess (I think you mentioned that Brenda doesn't like to tender) but I'll look for you just in case. I hope Morey goes with you. Have a great cruise! :)

Marcia, Hi! It's so good to hear from you. Have a wonderful, relaxing and funfilled cruise. The "O" is a great ship.

The Tender in Cabo can be a bit challenging for Brenda especially if the waters are choppy. They're challenging for me! :o

I may just be the "waver" on the Promenade. I'll look for you! Morey says hello and Brenda sends you a big lick.

We'll be onboard the Sapphire again on September 24th going to San Francisco. See if you can jump onboard. :p

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hope everyone had a great turkey day!

Roz, Have a safe and relaxing trip! You, Morey and Brenny deserve it! Hugs, kisses and licks to you all!

Get this....get that....don't forget those....so much to do....but, had to take the time to thank you for your good wishes and hope that your Turkey Day was a good one!!!!

Bye, talk to you soon.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Mornin' all:
Roz: I know I already said it, but have a blast. See you in about a week!

Everyone else have a great weekend.


Thank you.....I'm "blasting" down to the car to load-up just one more thing! :eek:

Talk to you next week.

[Quampapetet]

I can't wait to call CCI and tell them to send a "trainer" over immediately because the Service Dog who will be on her 14th cruise on Saturday and has been all over the world by every means of transportation available to man - NEEDS MORE TRAINING! That'll go over big!!!!!!

I think I'm good. Thanks and have a great Thanksgiving! Remember, we roast the "bird" not each other!!!!!!



You're the one who said your dog wasn't trained well enough, Roz, so don't go putting it on other ppl. And the number of cruises your dog has been on has nothing to do with its training, especially off-leash training, as I'm sure you know. Your dog might be good, fine, or okay on-leash - but there are others whose aren't as good or even good at all (some whose status as service dog is questionable) - but off-leash obedience is needed, too, so if you haven't kept that up or your dog wasn't trained well in it, re-training/refreshing would be the best idea. It is not only for when in public, but also for your safety and the dog's safety.

I hope everybody had a good Thanksgiving!

[Quampapetet]

I sometimes wonder how our conversations would go live without the filter of the internet...or lack of filter. Dog Wars! I knew when I read Roz's post about airport security it would ruffle some feathers. Happy Turkey Day to all my dog loving friends. I'll give "Cooler" and her roomates..."Pretty" and "Bam" greetings from all my CC friends.

I'm not sure why they would be different in real life.

I've gotta know, what are Bam's siblings' names and what was the litter theme?!

[Quampapetet]

OK, as someone who flys, literally all over the world, including Muslim countries that don't care for dogs, and flys usually once to twice a month, I think I might be pretty qualified to give responses/advice on the subject, so here goes:

Wow, how do you deal with being in Muslim countries?! I would think that would be pretty tough, not to mention you'd have a lot of access issues.

1) Do not take the dog's pack/harness off. This signifies, usually, that the dog is off duty, which isn't something I want. TSA is required to allow the dog to go through without taking that off. Some don't realize it, and will have to call a supervisor...but, it always works out in the end.

I do take my dog's pack off (so they don't have to hand-search it and to make security a little faster), but not the mobility harness, collars, and leash. However, my dog wouldn't go nutty if I took her harness off and she'd still be obedient off-leash. But, it is soooo much easier to leave the harness on 'cause it takes a bit of time to take off and put on and all that. I did once (at least) have an agent ask me to take the harness et al off and I told him no, he's not allowed to ask me to do that, which he was fine with. Most of them don't have a clue about screening service dogs. Another one had to ask a supervisor if what I told him was true about them only needing to hand-search the dog because only the dog set the detector off when we went through separately (it is true, which his supervisor told him, so only the dog was searched).

2) Carry on you a copy of TSA regs regarding a service animal. Alert them, at the beginning that you will need someone to pat the dog down. Why? Some of the TSA agents are afraid of dogs, or uncomfortable, so they will need to "swap" places with someone else.

I've come across an agent or two who were scared of dogs, so, yeah, they just had somebody else hand-search the dog. I don't tell them at the beginning, though, they just figure it out when the metal detector beeps. Some have asked me to hold my dog's head away from them, which is reasonable (as I'm sure they've had to deal with some of those nasty little pet dogs before) even though my dog won't do anything.

3) Teach your dog to stand for being "wanded". You can do this at home by teaching/reinforcing a stand stay. Use a curling iron, or ruler, or something similar to work the dog----it can be frightening to them.

You can also teach going through the metal detector using a doorway, walk-through trellis thing (can't think of the word for those), or other kind of similar-looking thing. You could also practice during non-busy hours of your local courthouse, since they have the same type of screening equipment as airports do.

*****If your dog will not work off leash in highly distractable area, then, as a trainer, I would be seriously questioning the training behind your dog. I would call the organization for a refresher course. Sorry if that offends, but to have a dog that cannot be trusted off leash in a crowded area, has no business with the classification as a service dog, in my opinion. ****

Surprisingly (and sadly), I've seen ppl post online about their service dog not having any off-leash training (usually owner-trainers, but sometimes program dogs, too). I've also seen articles about service dogs running away or getting hit by cars. And you never know when you're going to need your dog to be off-leash - to do a task, because your leash broke, or a variety of other reasons.

5) I do not feed my dogs after the previous eve feeding. I do not feed the AM of a flight. Period. I do not offer water once AT THE AIRPORT. Even if I am flying to Europe. I can go to the bathroom, my dog can't on the flight.

If I'm on a morning/noon flight, I don't feed breakfast. If I'm on an afternoon/night flight, I feed breakfast early in the morning so my dog won't get sick and throw up bile from not having eaten anything. I don't water too close to leaving for the airport, but I offer ice to lick on the plane a few times (though she doesn't always take it, as she doesn't always need it). I usually bring a potty pad in my carry-on if I have connecting flights (although it could be used in case of a very long delay of a single flight, too) - I could use this in the bathroom if needed, but I've not had to use it (though there was one delayed connecting flight when I wish I had one with me - I couldn't leave the gate area because they kept saying the plane would load in a small number of minutes, which added up to a long delay, and this was in Atlanta [a huge airport]).

Now, on to another subject....TO the person whose son has a new dog: Suggestion: Join a couple of local obedience classes. It is a great bonding experience, and reinforces what you have been taught.

Good idea!

[Quampapetet]

Oh my goodness...I really do not want to step into the fray. Dog Wars indeed. I would caution a brand new service dog/recepient team about obediance classes, UNLESS, that is something the program they graduated from would advise. Service dog training does differ from program to program and would hate to see a dog who has been trained with "choice" training, or positive rewards, suddenly be in a group class with a more "assertive" style.

I would hope the person's common sense would kick in so they would choose a class that is similar to how the dog was trained. Guess you can't always count on that these days, though, having seen some of the stuff ppl have done, like the real 9-1-1 calls Leno had on his show the other night. WOW are some ppl really not thinking sometimes!! :eek:


And while I agree a service dog, especially a frequent traveler, should be comfortable and confident in a busy area, their is a reason we have leashes and humans on the end of them. While I am pretty confident with many of the young dogs I work with, I would NEVER drop their leash, unless I am in a fenced and protected area. Certainly not in a busy airport. Can you imagine if a female dog in heat just happened to be traveling in the same area....... Hormones "could" overpower training.

We have leashes so we can correct a dog when it is wrong. They're not to keep a trained dog from running away. The puppies you work with are completely different from a trained service dog. And the leash-drop in a busy place (like a mall) is actually part of the ADI public access test, which all service dogs from ADI schools have to pass. A well-trained service dog can behave and act well in a public place leash or no leash and this is for various reasons, including convenience, need, and safety.



I agree, let's return to cruising...Unless specefic advise is requested.....

Flying by air is directly related to cruising, as most ppl fly to get to cruises.

[Quampapetet]

Our trainer also runs several types of behavior and sporting groups so there are always options to expand on Annies training. My DS actually loves to watch "fly-balling" and hopes eventually to train her for this.

That would be great if your son could do flyball with his new dog. It'd be a good form of exercise and off-duty relief time for the dog. Have fun!

[sunshine426]

[/size][/font]

I would hope the person's common sense would kick in so they would choose a class that is similar to how the dog was trained. Guess you can't always count on that these days, though, having seen some of the stuff ppl have done, like the real 9-1-1 calls Leno had on his show the other night. WOW are some ppl really not thinking sometimes!! :eek:




We have leashes so we can correct a dog when it is wrong. They're not to keep a trained dog from running away. The puppies you work with are completely different from a trained service dog. And the leash-drop in a busy place (like a mall) is actually part of the ADI public access test, which all service dogs from ADI schools have to pass. A well-trained service dog can behave and act well in a public place leash or no leash and this is for various reasons, including convenience, need, and safety.



[font=Arial Narrow][size=3]

Flying by air is directly related to cruising, as most ppl fly to get to cruises.

You know, I was going to post a reply, but I think I'll just let this one drop...somethings we will never agree on.

[rangeley]

Just to clarify, our dog is NOT trained to be offleash. Thats the way they want it. You should never drop the leash. Your dog should only be offleash in an enclosed area. Dogs are unpredictable and even a well trained dog can take off. Thats how our organization works, other places might be different.

[sunshine426]

Just to clarify, our dog is NOT trained to be offleash. Thats the way they want it. You should never drop the leash. Your dog should only be offleash in an enclosed area. Dogs are unpredictable and even a well trained dog can take off. Thats how our organization works, other places might be different.

Thanks Cindy, you said that much better than I could.

[sunshine426]

And back to the more amusing things: Dog Names... If I talk about a dog in training on a public forum, I give them a "screen name" to protect their privacy and more importantly the privacy of their future recepient. So "Bam" and "Pretty" and "Cooler" all actually have different names, and yes each litter does have a theme...Now I guess if I speak about any of their litter mates I'll have to be super creative.... ( The River" theme were on TV so I have no problems naming them, but if" I were to work with one, and mentioned it here, I would not say their real name)

[S.S. Cruisers]

I love that they have themes for litters!

[sunshine426]

It is always fun when the theme is annoucned the the puppies are named. Sometimes you hear a name and then you try to guess the theme. I always laugh at the Vegas letter...My friend has a dog from that litter (a retired service dog) who now serves in a "therapy dog" role. His name is Ballys. Every now and then she'll say like the gym. I always like busting her and saying no, like in the casino. They have had dogs named after cows,rivers, skateboards,muppets, fabrics, gem stones,....and the list goes on. Sometimes I still can't figure out the theme from the name.

So far no dog has had the same name and they have graduated over 1000 dogs....

[rangeley]

We have letter litters. All of Wexlers siblings names begin with "W".

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Cindy: I remember that all of Wexes sibs start with W, but he is the only one that gets the "S" in front for Sexy Wexy. I loved the picture of him on the bed on the pillow no less! He has your number. I would do the same, and just cuddle up next to him.

Well, Roz is off in the ocean. Hope the weather is terrific for them. Should be.

Everyone have a nice day. Our weather is calling for snow, we shall see.

[rangeley]

Nancy, He is a sexy Wexy!! He loves to get into poses that are so cute, always entertaining us.
We just went down the street for dinner and we were talking about Roz on the cruise. I'm sure she is having a great time.

Cindy

[Austin Family]

Hello,

We would like to take our daughter, a wheelchair bound double amputee and her service dog on a cruise with us next year that leaves from Puerto Rico. on the Serenade of the Seas. The ports include Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Roseau, Dominica; and Bridgetown, Barbados.

Would my daughter and service dog be able to get off the ship at any of the above ports?

Has anyone in a wheelchair with a service dog visited San Juan and has recommendations for what to do pre-and post cruise? Mainly interested in the beach and the rainforest.

We all went to Alaska this summer on Holland America and it was wonderful but I know the Caribbean could be a little tricky, so I was hoping for some good advice.

THANK YOU!

I would appreciate any expertise offered!!! Thank you.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Welcome Austin family;
Quam and Roz are our resident experts on paperwork and ports. Quam is usually on in the wee hours and Roz in on cruise right now. Be patient, someone will give you answers or where to find them.

I hope you guys enjoyed Alaska. I hear it is beautiful, one day we hope to cruise there.

[DisneyKidsDad]

Hello,

We would like to take our daughter, a wheelchair bound double amputee and her service dog on a cruise with us next year that leaves from Puerto Rico. on the Serenade of the Seas. The ports include Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Roseau, Dominica; and Bridgetown, Barbados.

Would my daughter and service dog be able to get off the ship at any of the above ports?

Has anyone in a wheelchair with a service dog visited San Juan and has recommendations for what to do pre-and post cruise? Mainly interested in the beach and the rainforest.

We all went to Alaska this summer on Holland America and it was wonderful but I know the Caribbean could be a little tricky, so I was hoping for some good advice.

THANK YOU!

I would appreciate any expertise offered!!! Thank you.

We were in Tortola 2 years ago with our daughters service dog. First of all, you will need to get a rabies titer test. When you dock in Tortola, a Vet will come on board to check the paperwork and hold her hand out for $20. The island is not very dog friendly. Most shops "in town" will not let you in with the dog. As you are walking from the ship to the town, there are some wooden buildings selling souveniers. One of them had a ramp. That's where we shopped. In town, there are very few curb cuts and the sidewalks are in bad shape. That's the only port on your list we have been to with the dog. Hope this helps.

[rangeley]

Welcome Austin Family, I can help alittle bit. San Juan all you need is the international health certificate. Barbados you cannot bring the dog on the island at all. St Maarten we are going to in January, here's what they require:
USDA veterinary health certificate should be issued maximum of 14 days prior to arrival.
A rabies vaccination certificate, administered between 30 days and one year before travel.
We had to give our dog a rabies a year early.

The other islands I don't know about. Hope this helped alittle.

Cindy

[sunshine426]

Hey Everyone. I'm off to get little miss Cooler today. Only a one night visit this week. I have not had her home in almost two months. Keep getting talked into bringing home other dogs that have not had as many home visits...until I looked at her book.... So, home this week, next week and then home for Christmas with all sorts of family and commotion. Have a Marta ride to the airport with Cracker's sister next week...she is the last of that litter at the farm and is slated to graduate at the January Camp so I am getting some extra loving in.

[rangeley]

Wow Sunshine I didn't realize you haven't had Cooler for a month!:eek: I'm sure Cooler will be happy to see you. How old is Crackers sister? Seems Crackers graduated so long ago.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Sunshine: How sweet you will get Cooler for Christmas! What fun. Reno just loved Christmas. I was so good, though, wouldn't bother the present under the tree, but give him his and he went to town to open it. I have pictures somewhere, I will try and find them and post them if it will work.

Cindy: I bet Wexy will have a great Christmas. He has turned into such a ham and what a personality. Definately pictures will be in order.

I have the weather channel as a pop up page when I first turn my computer on. It has a nice size picture of pets, right in the middle. Everyday, there are new ones up, about 8-10 of them. You can enlarge them and flip thru them. What pops up right in my face but a big ole yellow Reno lab. Looked alot like him. Makes me miss him.

Everyone have a good day.

[rangeley]

Nancy, We took Wex to a garden place where they have a Xmas shop and sell trees and wreaths. We figured we could get a good pic of him for our Xmas card in front of some tree or decorations. We spent about 45 min posing him in front of all kinds of decorations. When we got home we had taken 50 or 60 pics and prayed we would have a good one, and we did! He is adorable!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Cindy: How fun! He is so photogenic. Jezzy Lou could care less, not very cooperative either.

[Quampapetet]

Just to clarify, our dog is NOT trained to be offleash. Thats the way they want it. You should never drop the leash. Your dog should only be offleash in an enclosed area. Dogs are unpredictable and even a well trained dog can take off. Thats how our organization works, other places might be different.

Airport security IS an enclosed area. ;)

I'm sure your dog must be trained to stay next to you/doing whatever he was doing if you drop the leash (it happens by accident sometimes, then there are the times when you have to do it for safety or because of the nature of what needs to be done). It is part of the Public Access Test for ADI programs. And it is not practical or possible to hold your dog's leash 100% of the time.

Even if you don't train your dog to be off-leash in large open spaces (which mine is and I'd never have it any other way for safety reasons), every service dog needs to be trained to not behave any differently than when they are on-leash when they are off-leash/the leash is dropped.

[Quampapetet]

And back to the more amusing things: Dog Names... If I talk about a dog in training on a public forum, I give them a "screen name" to protect their privacy and more importantly the privacy of their future recepient. So "Bam" and "Pretty" and "Cooler" all actually have different names, and yes each litter does have a theme...Now I guess if I speak about any of their litter mates I'll have to be super creative.... ( The River" theme were on TV so I have no problems naming them, but if" I were to work with one, and mentioned it here, I would not say their real name)



Ahh, gotcha! :) Dunno how you keep all the fake names straight - I'm sure I'd mix up who was who or call them all different names, LOL!

[Quampapetet]

It is always fun when the theme is annoucned the the puppies are named. Sometimes you hear a name and then you try to guess the theme. I always laugh at the Vegas letter...My friend has a dog from that litter (a retired service dog) who now serves in a "therapy dog" role. His name is Ballys. Every now and then she'll say like the gym. I always like busting her and saying no, like in the casino. They have had dogs named after cows,rivers, skateboards,muppets, fabrics, gem stones,....and the list goes on. Sometimes I still can't figure out the theme from the name.

So far no dog has had the same name and they have graduated over 1000 dogs....

Ooh, I would love a dog named after a Muppet!! Actually, "Muppet" is one of my cutsie nicknames for my dog. :D (And I love the Muppets!)

Not sure about the cow names, though, haha.

[Quampapetet]

We have letter litters. All of Wexlers siblings names begin with "W".

Did they skip the letter "X"? I'd imagine that would be a pretty hard litter to name if they didn't!

[Quampapetet]

Hello,

We would like to take our daughter, a wheelchair bound double amputee and her service dog on a cruise with us next year that leaves from Puerto Rico. on the Serenade of the Seas. The ports include Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Roseau, Dominica; and Bridgetown, Barbados.

Would my daughter and service dog be able to get off the ship at any of the above ports?

Welcome! I'm sure y'all will have a great trip!

The British Virgin Islands have, I believe, the same requirements as getting into the UK (the rabies titer and six-month wait thing and all). Barbados does, as well, but they also require dogs to come directly from the UK instead of anywhere else - they stated on their site there are no exceptions for service dogs, but there might be for cruising service dogs ... it has just been impossible to get in touch with them to find out! One of the ppl on this thread will find out in January (I don't believe they did the rabies titer and six-month wait, though) and I will find out in February (did the rabies titers [St. Kitts requires two] and six-month wait).

St. Maarten also never got back to me (only Dominica did - and my cruiseline has since cancelled that island as a port, just my luck), but all that I have seen says you only need the usual health certificate and rabies certificate stuff (no rabies titer or six-month wait).

As I mentioned above, St. Kitts requires two rabies titers (though without any kind of wait before you can enter the country), though they have a six-month quarantine once you arrive on the island. Hopefully they waive this for cruising service dogs. (Islands do sometimes waive requirements for cruising service dogs - happened to me this year with Grand Turk, which waived the rabies titers, import fee, etc. - everything but the health and rabies certificates and import permit.)

Dominica also requires the rabies titer, but with no wait before entering the country.

Obviously, these are just the basic highlights and the typical healthy dog, vaccinations or titers, negative heartworm test, etc. are inferred. If you've not travelled internationally with a dog before, you'll want to check out all the details to get familiar with them. Also, some countries require the dog to be wormed with a certain type of oral treatment (pill) within 24-48 or 72 hours before entering the country - I forget exactly which ones these are, but I believe of the one you are going to, both Barbados and St. Kitts requires this.

You'll need an import permit from all but St. Maarten and Puerto Rico. You have to send for these once you have all the dog's paperwork (including health certificate, so this must be done right before you leave) and you get them by faxing the paperwork to each country and requesting the import permit. They may or may not charge you a fee (some waive the fee for service dogs, some don't have fees).

Has anyone in a wheelchair with a service dog visited San Juan and has recommendations for what to do pre-and post cruise? Mainly interested in the beach and the rainforest.

I'm not in a wheelchair, but had a port stop in San Juan this year. We went to the rainforest. The trails are definitely NOT accessible! They are pretty hard to do for somebody with mobility issues, IMO. There is a visitor's center you can go to that I believe is accessible, but you can't see all that much from there. (You can get some cute things in the gift shop and watch a boring [IMO] movie, though.)

I don't know which beach(es), if any, have a beach wheelchair at them.

Do realize that Puerto Rico is a U.S. Territory and is under the ADA just like the 50 states are. Same for the other U.S. Territories (like the U.S. Virgin Islands), but not any of the other islands.

Let me know if you have any other questions!

[Quampapetet]

Quam is usually on in the wee hours


Baha - I tricked you! It is only 5:01 p.m. right now!!!! :p

You're right that I am usually on late at night, though!

[Quampapetet]

Austin Family: I forgot to say, for these islands you need the rabies vaccine to be no older than one year (can't be in the second or third year of the three-year vaccine).

[S.S. Cruisers]

Quam: That you did! I haven't changed my setting since we moved, so I never know what time it really is at CC land!

[sunshine426]

I came close a few times with "Crackers" giving away his real name. And it is such a handsome name to go with his handsome self. Cooler is such a cute girl and I am sooooo loving having her home. She hasn't had the best outing behavior the last few times. She has been easily distracted, a bit mouthy and jumpy..... the first few hours at the house were a bit testy. She was testing the waters, now, she is snoozing on my lap and I think almost back to her own self. I will let you know tomorw

Now, the Muppet Litter. Was an actual litter. I didnt' work with many of them as most were ready to graduate about the time I was competing volunteer training. I remember a "Sprocket" and a "Rowlf". Now I refer to Bam and Pretty as Muppets because that is what they look like.....

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
And beauties they are! I love that hair. Jezzy has it on her head. She looks like one of those birds (don't know what they are) with the plumage going on!

[rangeley]

Roz should be back today. I hope she had a wonderful cruise. We are going out for our Anniversary tonight, 12 long years together :eek: Tomorrow we have an Xmas party at Johns aunt. Busy time of year!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Cindy: You are funny. And a saint. Next March will be 25 LONG years. I wouldn't change anything, but there are days! I would rather stay home than have a lot of functions to go to.

Welcome home Roz! Or is it too early for that?

[sunshine426]

I was afraid that "cooler" was going to have to repeat "Manners 101" after 6 weeks of kennel living...even though she was with me at least once a week...nothing replaces a nice calm home visit. At first I thought she was going to regress back to "puppy garten". She was rotten. Jumping, mouthy, into EVERYTHING... but one night into the house and she was back to her own sweet self.

After one night, she was minding her manners, doing some advance commands at the house, and overall just a super sweetheart. I plan on bringing her home at least once a week for the next few weeks to keep things going forward. Apparently for her trainer, she is still being somewhat "naughty". Her trainer would like me to bring home a few other dogs who don't go home on home visits that often, but still...... I want "Cooler"!!! Plus, she sleeps well in the crate!!!!!

[dobiemom]

I found this on the HAL board and thought you all might like it:
I should probably wait until later in the season to post this....but just discovered this card, and as soon as I saw it, wanted to share it....

http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=2509000709899&source=jl999
Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! Happy Holidays!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

I found this on the HAL board and thought you all might like it:

Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! Happy Holidays!

M, I know that Roz wants to write to you on her own (she's attending a Seminar from work, an hour after we got home until this evening), but I just had to let you know how meaningful and filled with a lot of imagination your thoughtful gift was.

We had just returned from dinner and the envelope from the Oosterdam was in our mailbox. It was so strange, at first, until we opened it. We were both so pleasantly surprised but, with your imagination we knew that if anyone could pull this off it would be you. Thank you for being so thoughtful. Roz hung the stocking on our fireplace, it's really pretty!

I'll give you all the short version. We met "M" on two other cruises. Both by pure luck of planning. She has sent Brenda gifts and is clever enough to figure out how to get a message and gift to us from Cabo San Lucas (another planning luck thing, except this time, on different ships). She had an envelope delivered to our stateroom from Cabo........she's clever, witty and very pretty.

Thank you "M". We'll be on the Sapphire on September 24, 2011. Roz is thinking of planning another cruise inbetween. She'll let you all know about that one.

Have a wonderful holiday and a healthy and truly happy New Year!!!!

P.S. Loved the Christmas video, thanks for sharing it.

[dobiemom]

M, I know that Roz wants to write to you on her own (she's attending a Seminar from work, an hour after we got home until this evening), but I just had to let you know how meaningful and filled with a lot of imagination your thoughtful gift was.

We had just returned from dinner and the envelope from the Oosterdam was in our mailbox. It was so strange, at first, until we opened it. We were both so pleasantly surprised but, with your imagination we knew that if anyone could pull this off it would be you. Thank you for being so thoughtful. Roz hung the stocking on our fireplace, it's really pretty!

I'll give you all the short version. We met "M" on two other cruises. Both by pure luck of planning. She has sent Brenda gifts and is clever enough to figure out how to get a message and gift to us from Cabo San Lucas (another planning luck thing, except this time, on different ships). She had an envelope delivered to our stateroom from Cabo........she's clever, witty and very pretty.

Thank you "M". We'll be on the Sapphire on September 24, 2011. Roz is thinking of planning another cruise inbetween. She'll let you all know about that one.

Have a wonderful holiday and a healthy and truly happy New Year!!!!

P.S. Loved the Christmas video, thanks for sharing it.
You are welcome! I'm glad you got it, I wasn't sure it would work. September is our end-of-year (federal government) so I won't be able to join you. But please let me know of the inbetween cruise and maybe I'll be able to join you! :) BTW we had a yellow lab (Sinda) on our cruise. (But she wasn't as pretty as Brenda. ;)) Her "handler" was in the Thermal Suite twice when I was there and Sinda seemed to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere too! :D

[rangeley]

Since I will be travelling to CT today, I just wanted to say WB ROZ!! Hope you had an awesome cruise. I will be back on Wednesday and I will talk to you then.


Cindy

[wizard-of-roz]

Hi Everyone, we're back and it was a wonderful and sunfilled trip. The difference in a "good" cruise and a "great" cruise are the thousands of other folks who are onboard with you. And, we had some of the nicest and most friendly group [there were some exceptions but honestly, I can only count them on less than one hand!]

The weather was so beautiful, not too warm and not too hot or humid.

Boarding was an absolute breeze. No kidding, we got to the dock [San Pedro] at 10:30, dropped off our stuff [and we had a lot], parked the car, filled out that darn "med. form", checked-in and was sitting in the Horizon Court for lunch before 11:25.

We had one of the best room Stewards we have ever had. His name was Seree and he paid attention to every detail [including taking care of all of Brenda's needs.] He knew I love their hand lotion and made sure that I had, at least two bottles every day!!!!! ;)

When we first boarded the ship, the box that was provided for Brenda, in the stairwell was 2 1/2 x 3 ft. Imagine a 68 pound Lab trying to make the tightest circle she could to make sure that her potty made it into the box. It was not going to happen! She's a really good sport and made an effort, but please [dogs don't potty "vertical"]!!! :( I alerted Seree to the issue and in less than 1/2 hour he supplied us with a 4 x 4 box filled with wood shavings, much more appropriate for my size dog. Apparently, before we boarded there was a woman with a very small "alert" dog and, the box worked fine for them. :rolleyes:

*****Letting your Steward know of the box/location, etc., etc., problems before the day passes [the day you board] is the best way to handle it. Make you and your Service Dog happy so that the entire cruise is a wonderful experience. ********

The crew was amazing......they couldn't have been nicer and more helpful. I don't know how they maintain their attitudes and wit. I think Brenda had a lot to do with their big smiles!!!!!

The food had some good and some great days [for me]. Morey thought they were more "so-so" days. I always found something to please my palate, not so much him. He's extremely fussy about taste and variety. And, the older he gets the more difficult he is to please. I was surprised there wasn't more turkey, cranberry and holiday fare!!!!

The ship is showing some wear and does need to replace some carpets, lounge pads and do some sprucing-up in some areas but for the most part she's a beautiful ship and we were very pleased with our mini-suite. We're booked in this same cabin for our Sept. 2011 cruise.

On our last formal night they started putting up the Christmas decorations. So, so pretty. Twinkle lights, garland, velvet ribbons and even a Menorah. I love crusing at this time of year. And, I hope to make it a tradition!

That said; I'm so bored with the entertainment main shows. The comedians were great. Carlos Oscar is a comedic genious. They should have put him in the Main Theatre. He was in Explorer's Lounge which was standing-room-only down the hallways!!!!

We had folks sitting and laying and visiting with Brenda more than we have ever had on any cruise. The best folks, the most caring and loving people who shared some of their stories of their own fur-babies and how much respect they have for Service Dogs. We met so many new friends.

A friend we had met before, onboard the Golden and then again onboard the Oosterdam ["Dobiemom"] was also cruising this week on the Oosterdam and was going to be in Cabo, the same time we were. It's a "tender" port and we didn't go. She managed to get an envelope with a gift in it to our cabin....amazing! I don't know how she did it but I can only guess. She's a delightful, lovely woman and so much fun to cruise with. I look forward to hopefully seeing her on other cruises. :)

I definitely missed talking to you guys but had I gone into the Internet Cafe I believe that Mr. Morey would have "imploded!"

Have a Happy and Healthy Holiday and New Year!

Love & Licks,
Roz & Brenda

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Hi Roz! Brenny and Mr. Morey! WELCOME BACK.
We missed you guys, but honestly if Cindy had not said you were back Saturday, I would have thought you were still gone. It seemed like the week flew by. More so for you guys, I bet.
I am glad you had a fantastic cruise. It makes it all the better. And Ms. Brenny, that little socialite. How could anyone not want to sit and lay on the floor with her? I bet she was looking spiffy in her different collars.

Jezzy Lou put her Red Christmas one on. Took her harness off and she is happy. I did order a muzzle for her. We have to get her socialized. It is pink, that helps mom not feel so bad. I just hope it works.

Roz, if you don't mind, would you send me your email address? Mine is [email]cruiser_nancy@hotmail dot com. Thanks.

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:

Jezzy Lou put her Red Christmas one on. Took her harness off and she is happy. I did order a muzzle for her. We have to get her socialized. It is pink, that helps mom not feel so bad. I just hope it works.



Poor little girl.......don't worry Jezzy Lou there are some folks I work with who could use a "muzzle"!

[DisneyKidsDad]

Welcome back Roz. Glad you had a great cruise. I can't figure it out but for the last week it's been real quiet around here. :D

[wizard-of-roz]

Welcome back Roz. Glad you had a great cruise. I can't figure it out but for the last week it's been real quiet around here. :D

As usual, very funny!!!!! You can always count on me to add my 2 cents. Have a wonderful holiday with your family !

[wizard-of-roz]

You are welcome! I'm glad you got it, I wasn't sure it would work. September is our end-of-year (federal government) so I won't be able to join you. But please let me know of the inbetween cruise and maybe I'll be able to join you! :) BTW we had a yellow lab (Sinda) on our cruise. (But she wasn't as pretty as Brenda. ;)) Her "handler" was in the Thermal Suite twice when I was there and Sinda seemed to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere too! :D

Of all the cruising that we've done with Brenda, only twice have we come across other Working Dogs and they were Seeing Eye Dogs. Never have we seen a Service Dog, Facility Dog or a Skilled Companion.

I look forward to seeing and meeting other Working Dogs and their partners.

[talako]

Hi Roz and welcome back! It sounds like you had a wonderful vacation! I am sooooo ready for this trip on Saturday.

I have a question for you or anyone else that has experience. When you arrive at the pier in LA and check in, do you have to meet anyone special from the ship (like the hotel director or anybody) to board the ship with your service dog?

I know this question is probably stupid but I was just curious if I just check in and board like normal or if they bring us (me and service dog) on personally.

Thanks for your patience...its Rocco's first cruise and I would like to have all my ducks in a row :) hehe

Frank

[dobiemom]

Frank, were you on the Oosterdam last year? Did you make our door signs? I still have mine and used it last week! What a small world! :D

[talako]

Frank, were you on the Oosterdam last year? Did you make our door signs? I still have mine and used it last week! What a small world! :D

Oh my gosh! Yes that was me :D It makes me feel so proud that you still have the door sign and still use it!

A small world indeed!

[Quampapetet]

Quam: That you did! I haven't changed my setting since we moved, so I never know what time it really is at CC land!

I forgot it is a user setting; I would've forgotten to change that, too!

[Quampapetet]

I came close a few times with "Crackers" giving away his real name. And it is such a handsome name to go with his handsome self. Cooler is such a cute girl and I am sooooo loving having her home. She hasn't had the best outing behavior the last few times. She has been easily distracted, a bit mouthy and jumpy..... the first few hours at the house were a bit testy. She was testing the waters, now, she is snoozing on my lap and I think almost back to her own self. I will let you know tomorw

Now, the Muppet Litter. Was an actual litter. I didnt' work with many of them as most were ready to graduate about the time I was competing volunteer training. I remember a "Sprocket" and a "Rowlf". Now I refer to Bam and Pretty as Muppets because that is what they look like.....


Yeah, pups go through stages, plus they have to learn that the rules and commands are the same with each person and at each place they go (to generalize everything). I'm sure it takes a lot of energy and patience to be a puppy raiser!!!

Not sure I'd want a dog named Rowlf, but I do love the Muppets!

[Quampapetet]

BTW we had a yellow lab (Sinda) on our cruise. (But she wasn't as pretty as Brenda. ;)) Her "handler" was in the Thermal Suite twice when I was there and Sinda seemed to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere too! :D

I'm not quite sure what a "Thermal Suite" is (I am definitely NOT a spa type of person!!), but if it is like a sauna, I'm surprised they allowed the dog in there. I know Carnival doesn't allow it, as I got a document from them about service dogs on cruises and it said dogs aren't allowed in the sauna and one other similar place in the spa (perhaps the Thermal Suite?). Also, in a sauna a dog could easily overheat, so they don't belong in there anyhow for their own safety/health reasons.

[Quampapetet]

Hi Everyone, we're back and it was a wonderful and sunfilled trip. The difference in a "good" cruise and a "great" cruise are the thousands of other folks who are onboard with you. And, we had some of the nicest and most friendly group [there were some exceptions but honestly, I can only count them on less than one hand!]

That's good to hear! Sometimes on these boards you hear about nightmare passengers, which would not at all be fun. On my Royal Caribbean cruise, most ppl were great, but one guy accused one of my friends (to my face, without her being present) of faking her disability because he saw her walking around the ship after he'd seen her using a wheelchair in port (she only needs it for long distances). It is ppl like that who I don't like meeting.


He knew I love their hand lotion and made sure that I had, at least two bottles every day!!!!! ;)

Did you actually use that much each day?! Or did he just give you that much so you could take the extras home? 'Cause, if the former, your hands must be like butter about now! :p


When we first boarded the ship, the box that was provided for Brenda, in the stairwell was 2 1/2 x 3 ft. Imagine a 68 pound Lab trying to make the tightest circle she could to make sure that her potty made it into the box. It was not going to happen! She's a really good sport and made an effort, but please [dogs don't potty "vertical"]!!! :( I alerted Seree to the issue and in less than 1/2 hour he supplied us with a 4 x 4 box filled with wood shavings, much more appropriate for my size dog. Apparently, before we boarded there was a woman with a very small "alert" dog and, the box worked fine for them. :rolleyes:

Ugh! How annoying! I'm glad they were able to fix it for you. That's like on Royal when they gave me a 2' x 2' box, my poor dog. I think these boxes sometimes are made by ppl who have never seen a dog before!


I was surprised there wasn't more turkey, cranberry and holiday fare!!!!

Were you on the cruise on Thanksgiving itself? If so, they didn't have a special holiday dinner?! How sad!



I definitely missed talking to you guys but had I gone into the Internet Cafe I believe that Mr. Morey would have "imploded!"

Glad you didn't; that sure would've been messy to clean up and the cruiseline would've charged ya for it!! :p

[Quampapetet]

I have a question for you or anyone else that has experience. When you arrive at the pier in LA and check in, do you have to meet anyone special from the ship (like the hotel director or anybody) to board the ship with your service dog?

I know this question is probably stupid but I was just curious if I just check in and board like normal or if they bring us (me and service dog) on personally.

I've not cruised from LA, but FL, but on Royal Caribbean I just got in line with everybody else and then when I checked in, somebody came to get the paperwork and make copies of it for the ship. Then we boarded like normal with everybody else (no wait time for anybody).

On Carnival, I went through the VIP line 'cause the regular line was too long for me to stand in. The employee at the end of the line who checks your paperwork said he was waiting for me and told me (or brought me?) where to go to get my key/charge card for the ship. On that cruise, the waiting room was EXTREMELY full that they needed a few hundred more seats for everyone! Ppl were standing and sitting on the floor everywhere; it was nuts! I'm so glad the cruiseline didn't make me wait in that, especially with all the children nearby who you know would want to pet/play with "the doggy". They took me up in the elevator right away after getting my card and then boarded me. There was a short line on an outdoor deck of the ship (back-up from the ID photos for the cruise cards getting taken), but I tolerated it (line, heat, and direct sun) and was on the ship soon after.

So, I think it depends on the cruiseline, how busy they are, whether or not general boarding has been called yet, etc. Don't worry about it, though, 'cause they'll get you where you need to go! Happy cruising!

[rangeley]

WB Roz! It sounds like you had a great time. I'm so glad. We missed having you around. just one comment about Morey and eating. I guess something happens to mens tastebuds as they get older. My late father, brother, neighbor and John are all having this problem. My mother read an article about it in the paper. Some wierd thing(one of many) happens to them. I will cook something and he loves it, month later I'll make it and he hates it. It's driving me nuts. My neighbor says her husband is the same way and is driving her nuts too. :confused: Its a man thing! :eek:

Glad you liked the pic. ;)

Cindy

[wizard-of-roz]

Hi Roz and welcome back! It sounds like you had a wonderful vacation! I am sooooo ready for this trip on Saturday.

I have a question for you or anyone else that has experience. When you arrive at the pier in LA and check in, do you have to meet anyone special from the ship (like the hotel director or anybody) to board the ship with your service dog?

I know this question is probably stupid but I was just curious if I just check in and board like normal or if they bring us (me and service dog) on personally.

Thanks for your patience...its Rocco's first cruise and I would like to have all my ducks in a row :) hehe

Frank

Frank, I can't emphasize this enough......BRING COPIES OF ALL YOUR PAPERWORK ON YOUR DOG. Walk over to the "Handicapped" line, you'll be directed there. Give the person who's checking you in, your passport, credit card and ALL of your dogs paperwork. It will be faster and easier. Otherwise, they will take about 1/2 hour to copy it all and it's way too time consuming!!!!!!

And, they're ever so grateful for your being so prepared.

Have a wonderful cruise.

[wizard-of-roz]

WB Roz! It sounds like you had a great time. I'm so glad. We missed having you around. just one comment about Morey and eating. I guess something happens to mens tastebuds as they get older. My late father, brother, neighbor and John are all having this problem. My mother read an article about it in the paper. Some wierd thing(one of many) happens to them. I will cook something and he loves it, month later I'll make it and he hates it. It's driving me nuts. My neighbor says her husband is the same way and is driving her nuts too. :confused: Its a man thing! :eek:

Glad you liked the pic. ;)

Cindy

Thank you! I loved it!!!!! Brenda had a superfantabulous time!

What's up with these men? Now I understand the Demi Moore thing!!!!!!! I just keep that "perennial" smile on my face and let him have his way!!!!!!! ;)

He doesn't want to eat there, now....then he changes his mind and, he does want to eat there......he doesn't like this, now.....then he does like it!!!!! I give-up! And, for those of you gals whose hubbies are under the age of 40 [maybe I should have said 50]........just wait!!!!! He's become very fussy.

The week of the cruise absolutely "flew" by! I couldn't make time stand-still!!!!

Now, we're in the "count-down" mode for you! I want to go with you so bad!!!!!

We'll help you count the days......and, then I'll pray that the days go by very, very slowly, while your onboard!!!! [It won't work, I tried!]

[talako]

Thank you both Roz and Quampapetet for your help! I really appreciate it!

Frank

[wizard-of-roz]

Thank you both Roz and Quampapetet for your help! I really appreciate it!

Frank

If you don't come back and tell us how it was........I'll hunt you down!

Geeeeezzzzzz! Give me a week away from the mundane and look-out!!!!!!! ;) :o

[Valentine's Mom]

Hello All, We got home from our cruise on the Crown Princess. Valentine sure was glad to get home! She climbed up on hur pillow on the sofa and that was it until bedtime She even wanted daddy to carry hur up to bed. This was our first trip with Princess so we followed Roz. with how to handle the paper part and thie only thing that I can think of is she is on the west coast and I am on the right cost. I was never once asked for any paper, not one for Valentine. When we got to Roatan they said that they wanted to "see" the dog. I took her down and one guy looked in her ears and smiled and her and that was it. I thought it was all very weird.

We did hit some rough water. Funny but we have been in 50 foot seas and Valentine has never gotten sea sick but she did this time. Barf bags had been placed all around the ship. I did decide to get off in Cayman and boy did it rain. I had to go back and give Valentine and David a bath. You know how all that wet hair smells. yuk. I did get a formal picture of Valentine but I don't know if I can get it on but I'll try. If not I'll get David to do it tomorowl. More later

[wizard-of-roz]

Hello All, We got home from our cruise on the Crown Princess. Valentine sure was glad to get home! She climbed up on hur pillow on the sofa and that was it until bedtime She even wanted daddy to carry hur up to bed. This was our first trip with Princess so we followed Roz. with how to handle the paper part and thie only thing that I can think of is she is on the west coast and I am on the right cost. I was never once asked for any paper, not one for Valentine. When we got to Roatan they said that they wanted to "see" the dog. I took her down and one guy looked in her ears and smiled and her and that was it. I thought it was all very weird.

We did hit some rough water. Funny but we have been in 50 foot seas and Valentine has never gotten sea sick but she did this time. Barf bags had been placed all around the ship. I did decide to get off in Cayman and boy did it rain. I had to go back and give Valentine and David a bath. You know how all that wet hair smells. yuk. I did get a formal picture of Valentine but I don't know if I can get it on but I'll try. If not I'll get David to do it tomorowl. More later

Yey! Welcome home! Sounds like you had a very good cruise and, other than Valentine getting sea-sick sounds like everything went well.

I've had Brenda's Paws and Ears looked at [going to Brazil] and, then returning from the Mexican Riviera, a while ago!

I think there are variables depending on the Immigration official, Port Authority, etc.

This last trip an Immigration Officer [upon our return to San Pedro] came out of the booth, walked around Brenda [all the while just looking at her] and then motioned me to go forward. You never know what they may or may not do. I had all her paperwork ready to show if they had asked!

We'd love to see pictures.

[sunshine426]

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3 DsTdJy7JKSIQ%2B%2B&h=c66d9

I don't know if this link will work, but if it does, enjoy...This is the hospital I take my service dogs in training to visit...

[rangeley]

Does Sunshine just live to make us cry? Just another wonderful story Sunshine. Of course I was crying right along with that lady in the video. Thanks so much for sharing all these videos and stories with us. Each one is more heartwarming than the next. Just proves how truely wonderful these dogs are, and how much they change peoples lives.

Cindy

[sunshine426]

I sit up at night and plan what I can do to:

1. Make People Cry

2. Stir up Contraversy

3. Just have fun sharing.

Answer: All of the Above...except maybe the controversy...

[wizard-of-roz]

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3 DsTdJy7JKSIQ%2B%2B&h=c66d9

I don't know if this link will work, but if it does, enjoy...This is the hospital I take my service dogs in training to visit...

I work for a non-profit agency and while I was playing this, people started gathering around my desk.

I so believe in this organization as well as the work that CCI does. Now that I have a Working Dog, I know what it takes and how much love and devotion had to be put into each dog before they are given to people like me.

Thank you for bringing Canine Assistance to this thread. I've learned so much about them.

[wizard-of-roz]

I sit up at night and plan what I can do to:

1. Make People Cry

2. Stir up Contraversy

3. Just have fun sharing.

Answer: All of the Above...except maybe the controversy...

I knew it, I just knew it!!!!!!! And, we wouldn't have it any other way!!!!!!

I can't tell you enough how much I love you!!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Does Sunshine just live to make us cry? Just another wonderful story Sunshine. Of course I was crying right along with that lady in the video. Thanks so much for sharing all these videos and stories with us. Each one is more heartwarming than the next. Just proves how truely wonderful these dogs are, and how much they change peoples lives.

Cindy

Yep!!!!! I have to go to the ladies room to spruce-up what Sunshine has messed-up!!!!!! [My makeup!] Oh! Not that I need any! ;)

[sunshine426]

I love all of you as well.... Ho Ho Ho and Happy Holidays!!

PS: Just to let you know it is not all raindrops, kitten whiskers and puppy breath... Cooler took down 4 stockings and a row of snow at the hospital when we went to visit yesterday... by the end of the day, she had returned to more appropriate service dog behavior and was snuggling with children, doctors, nurses, and anyone else that just needed a little "cheer"....

[wizard-of-roz]

I love all of you as well.... Ho Ho Ho and Happy Holidays!!

PS: Just to let you know it is not all raindrops, kitten whiskers and puppy breath... Cooler took down 4 stockings and a row of snow at the hospital when we went to visit yesterday... by the end of the day, she had returned to more appropriate service dog behavior and was snuggling with children, doctors, nurses, and anyone else that just needed a little "cheer"....

He's one of Santa's Elves and he's just trying to help in that clumsy, puppy, adorable way!!!!!! :o

Now, ask me if I could do what YOU do......NEVER!!!!!

[rangeley]

I sit up at night and plan what I can do to:

1. Make People Cry

2. Stir up Contraversy

3. Just have fun sharing.

Answer: All of the Above...except maybe the controversy...

Yep I was right. I knew it!!!!

OMG I can just picture Cooler causing trouble!! Gotta admit though, it was probably fun watching him.

Roz we all know who the cutest elf is ;)

[sunshine426]

So true....Not a person looked upset, mostly everyone but me was laughing. I was just trying to keep the girl in the middle of the hall so she could not take down anymore decor.... Then word around the OR was spread. Cooler is in the HOUSE...suddenly I have doctors coming out of the wood works to see the girl. Of course she is grabbing at stethescopes, tugging away at surgical masks, and managed to get one scrub hat off.....trying not to laugh, somewhat embarrased, but whatever... since this is a children's hospital I get a bit of slack on puppy misbehaviour.....

[wizard-of-roz]

yep i was right. I knew it!!!!

Omg i can just picture cooler causing trouble!! Gotta admit though, it was probably fun watching him.

Roz we all know who the cutest elf is ;)

morey?????

[wizard-of-roz]

So true....Not a person looked upset, mostly everyone but me was laughing. I was just trying to keep the girl in the middle of the hall so she could not take down anymore decor.... Then word around the OR was spread. Cooler is in the HOUSE...suddenly I have doctors coming out of the wood works to see the girl. Of course she is grabbing at stethescopes, tugging away at surgical masks, and managed to get one scrub hat off.....trying not to laugh, somewhat embarrased, but whatever... since this is a children's hospital I get a bit of slack on puppy misbehaviour.....

Love it!!!!

[Quampapetet]

We did hit some rough water. Funny but we have been in 50 foot seas and Valentine has never gotten sea sick but she did this time. Barf bags had been placed all around the ship. I did decide to get off in Cayman and boy did it rain. I had to go back and give Valentine and David a bath. You know how all that wet hair smells. yuk. I did get a formal picture of Valentine but I don't know if I can get it on but I'll try. If not I'll get David to do it tomorowl. More later

Oh, poor Valentine! :( I get motion sick, so I know how she felt! (That's why I HAVE to take Bonine every day on my cruises - and it still doesn't help all the sicky feelings, but at least I don't get so nauseated I need to throw up - and why I can't do anything for the week after my cruise, as I'm just a dizzy mess then.)

For your next cruise, bring MotionEase with you. It is a topical herbal mixture that you put behind your ears and you can use it on dogs, too. It has a very strong herbal smell to it, but it is better than getting sick! You can use it after you feel sick, too, unlike Bonine, which doesn't help much once you're already sick.

I'm not sure if ginger works on dogs the same way it does on humans, but maybe bring some ginger dog treats (make sure they are natural with real ginger in them, not just some flavored stuff that doesn't have any ginger in it). This is a good time of year to buy them (Christmastime) if you have a cruise anytime soon (they will expire at some point, of course - check the package for the date), but you could make your own if you can't find any in stores just before your cruise.

Also, I recommend rinseless shampoo for dogs. I don't know if it would save you from "wet dog smell", since I don't get that with my breed, but I would think it would, since it only dampens the coat. This stuff is especially great for those of us who travel with service dogs so we don't have to find a place to bathe our dogs when we're far from home. Also, those faux chamois towels are awesome 'cause they really do soak up so much water and then you wring them out and re-use them right away to soak up even more.

[rangeley]

I'm sure Morey is an adorable elf!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Quam: Where do you get your rinseless shampoo from? I looked for it for my Reno, but couldn't find it. Jezzy Lou could really use it right now. Too cold to bath her, she doesn't like the hairdryer!

Ms. Jezzy Lou got her pink muzzle yesterday. She was able to try it out on the relatives she bit. She was all over them with tail wagging and got hugs and scratches from them. No growling or snapping at all. This may be the ticket. I hope so. She is so so lovable to us. Its hard to imagine what a little turd she can be.

Hope everyone has a fantastic Friday. It is calling for snow for us. We shall see...........

[rangeley]

Poor Jezzy Lou! Maybe she will realize if she behaves she won't have to waer a muzzle.

Don't you have enough snow there already??

Cindy

[S.S. Cruisers]

Cindy: No, last snow melted pretty quickly. Just little patches here and there. Trav says he wants snow for Christmas. Thats ok, as long as I don't have to drive in it, too much!

Jezzy Lou did so well, I just wonder if that will last after the muzzle is off. They are both gun shy with her. Can't blame them, but don't know if she senses it. We will go slow with her.

[wizard-of-roz]

Oh, poor Valentine! :( I get motion sick, so I know how she felt! (That's why I HAVE to take Bonine every day on my cruises - and it still doesn't help all the sicky feelings, but at least I don't get so nauseated I need to throw up - and why I can't do anything for the week after my cruise, as I'm just a dizzy mess then.)

For your next cruise, bring MotionEase with you. It is a topical herbal mixture that you put behind your ears and you can use it on dogs, too. It has a very strong herbal smell to it, but it is better than getting sick! You can use it after you feel sick, too, unlike Bonine, which doesn't help much once you're already sick.

I'm not sure if ginger works on dogs the same way it does on humans, but maybe bring some ginger dog treats (make sure they are natural with real ginger in them, not just some flavored stuff that doesn't have any ginger in it). This is a good time of year to buy them (Christmastime) if you have a cruise anytime soon (they will expire at some point, of course - check the package for the date), but you could make your own if you can't find any in stores just before your cruise.

Also, I recommend rinseless shampoo for dogs. I don't know if it would save you from "wet dog smell", since I don't get that with my breed, but I would think it would, since it only dampens the coat. This stuff is especially great for those of us who travel with service dogs so we don't have to find a place to bathe our dogs when we're far from home. Also, those faux chamois towels are awesome 'cause they really do soak up so much water and then you wring them out and re-use them right away to soak up even more.


Some really good suggestions, Quam. Thank you!

Quam, you may think this is a very silly question........and, forgive me if I've asked and it's been answered already. Are you a guy or a gal? :confused:

I told you it was silly!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

I'm sure Morey is an adorable elf!

Sometimes, I'd like to put this elf on the shelf!!!!! ;)

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:
Quam: Where do you get your rinseless shampoo from? I looked for it for my Reno, but couldn't find it. Jezzy Lou could really use it right now. Too cold to bath her, she doesn't like the hairdryer!

Ms. Jezzy Lou got her pink muzzle yesterday. She was able to try it out on the relatives she bit. She was all over them with tail wagging and got hugs and scratches from them. No growling or snapping at all. This may be the ticket. I hope so. She is so so lovable to us. Its hard to imagine what a little turd she can be.

Hope everyone has a fantastic Friday. It is calling for snow for us. We shall see...........


I buy it from Entirleypets.com. Maybe Quam has another source.

I hope that Jezzy finds the muzzle helpful. I have to really hold myself back from biting certain people.......I can relate!!!!! :(

[dobiemom]

I'm not quite sure what a "Thermal Suite" is (I am definitely NOT a spa type of person!!), but if it is like a sauna, I'm surprised they allowed the dog in there. I know Carnival doesn't allow it, as I got a document from them about service dogs on cruises and it said dogs aren't allowed in the sauna and one other similar place in the spa (perhaps the Thermal Suite?). Also, in a sauna a dog could easily overheat, so they don't belong in there anyhow for their own safety/health reasons.
Thermal suites on HAL ships (at least on the Oosterdam) are a large room that is at room temperature. There are 2 showers, and 2 or 3 saunas. The nicest thing is there are 4 or 5 heated loungers that look out the floor to ceiling windows. It's very peaceful and relaxing. Three times I was in there and 3 times I fell asleep! :) The hydrotherapy pool area, however, is a bit warm and I did not see the dog in there. But it was very nice, too!
http://www.hollandamerica.com/cruise-vacation-onboard/Activities.action

[Quampapetet]

Mornin' all:
Quam: Where do you get your rinseless shampoo from? I looked for it for my Reno, but couldn't find it. Jezzy Lou could really use it right now. Too cold to bath her, she doesn't like the hairdryer!

I order it from www.ChrisSystems.com (http://www.ChrisSystems.com) which is the site of Chris Christensen dog grooming products (I use his shampoos, conditioners, grooming spray, silver spray [for healing wounds and such], ear cleaner [terrific non-greasy/non-oily stuff that foams up so you don't even need to use much], hair gel, and brushes [they have ground tips so don't harm the dog's skin like other brushes do], too). They are show-dog quality products.

He has three rinseless shampoo products and I have used two of them (one is a new product and made for coarse and rough coats, which my dog doesn't have). I've used "Show Off", a liquid spray, and currently have "OC Magic Foam". They are both good. My bottle of "Show Off" broke thanks to the airport luggage handlers' rough treatment of my dog's bag :rolleyes: (and boy was that fun to clean up while on vacation, especially since the stuff somehow managed to even leak into a couple of the Ziploc bags of food, so I had to throw those away and get some meat from the grocery store to feed my dog those nights). When I went to buy it again, I decided to try "OC Magic Foam" for two reasons: The travel pack had a tiny bottle of it so I wouldn't have to bring a huge bottle with me again (no fear of it breaking again) and, since I love that his ear cleaner foams up, I loved that this rinseless shampoo foamed up (it actually comes out of the bottle as a foam, not foams up when you rub it like the ear cleaner does). They both work well, though, and I'm sure the new "Dry Breeze" also works well if your dog has that kind of a coat.

Now that I looked on his site to remember the product names to give you, I see several new products I'm going to have to look at! :p

If you're wondering which products from there I use, I have two different sets of shampoo and conditioner depending on who is doing it, where, and how quickly it needs to be done. The "Day to Day" shampoo and "Day to Day" conditioner I use for quick baths at home as well as I bring it to the groomer's. If I'm going to do a good ol' bath over at the self-service dog grooming place, I use "White on White", "Black on Black", and "After Bath" (a.k.a. "After U Bathe") - those are the color-enhancing shampoos for white hair and for black hair and the conditioner you use after using them. "Ice on Ice" is the grooming spray. "Thick'n'Thicker" is the gel (also comes as a foaming protein and a mousse). "Peace and Kindness" is the silver spray for healing boo-boos. "Mystic Ear" is the ear cleaner. I have several different kinds of brushes from his line, too.

[Quampapetet]

Some really good suggestions, Quam. Thank you!

Quam, you may think this is a very silly question........and, forgive me if I've asked and it's been answered already. Are you a guy or a gal? :confused:

I told you it was silly!!!!

I'm a gal. :) I think almost all of us who regularly post to this thread are. The only one I can think of who isn't is DisneyKidsDad (assuming that is a male based on the screen name).

[Quampapetet]

I hope that Jezzy finds the muzzle helpful. I have to really hold myself back from biting certain people.......I can relate!!!!! :(

LOL!! Uh-oh, it might be Roz who needs a muzzle, not her dog!!! :p When ppl ask her if Brenda bites, maybe she replies, "No, but I do!" :p

Your statement reminded me of how my friend/group leader always shakes her head at all the vet stuff some of these islands require for my dog and says, "I wish they required that much for some of the ppl who go on these cruises!" :D (On both her group cruises this year she had a couple of not-so-nice ppl in her group. Maybe they were rabid! Hahaha.)

[Quampapetet]

Thermal suites on HAL ships (at least on the Oosterdam) are a large room that is at room temperature. There are 2 showers, and 2 or 3 saunas. The nicest thing is there are 4 or 5 heated loungers that look out the floor to ceiling windows. It's very peaceful and relaxing. Three times I was in there and 3 times I fell asleep! :) The hydrotherapy pool area, however, is a bit warm and I did not see the dog in there. But it was very nice, too!
http://www.hollandamerica.com/cruise-vacation-onboard/Activities.action


Ah, sounds nice! :cool: Funny that you fell asleep all three times - guess you just relaxed sooo much! The heated loungers with the great view do sound quite lovely.

[Quampapetet]

Hey, Rangeley. Are you the one whose January cruise goes to some of the same islands mine does (including Barbados, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts)? I can't recall who it was and I'm too lazy right now to search the thread to look back to see who I was talking to about the requirements, LOL. ;)

If so, I know you said you didn't do the rabies titers (I believe you didn't book early enough to do the six-month wait for St. Lucia and you just aren't going to do the two St. Kitts requires [or maybe you're not going to that island?]), but I think you are going to still try to see if they'll let you off at those ports? If so, are you going to apply for the import permits or are you going to not try for them since you didn't do the titers? I'm wondering because I'm trying to figure out when I should apply for them to give those non-responding countries enough time (perhaps) to fax the permits back to me. I have a two-and-a-half week timeframe when I'll be able to get the health certificate and bring it to the USDA for endorsement and I leave for Puerto Rico (debarkation port) three days before the debarkation day, so I'm trying to figure things out (although the USDA app't can't be made 'til two weeks beforehand 'cause they are strange over there, LOL).

Also, just a reminder for you to come back on this thread right after your cruise and let me know if any of the islands let you get off the ship there, as that could help in my planning. :) Thanks!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Thanks, Roz and Quam for the info. Holy cow, Quam, I may start using those products for me! Some of them sound devine. Jezzy Lou is getting a little raggedy. I need to try and find a brush I can use on her. She has course hair, but it isn't real stiff. I think I have mentioned before, she will be fine and then matt up over night. I really hate to get her haircut this time of year. The cold and all being new to us. She is already cold. She has a snuggie and a sweater, neither of which she is fond of wearing. She would rather cuddle up in a blanket or one of our snug sacks.........Furbabies, whats a mom to do?

Hope everyone has a beautiful day.

[Quampapetet]

Mornin' all:
Thanks, Roz and Quam for the info. Holy cow, Quam, I may start using those products for me! Some of them sound devine. Jezzy Lou is getting a little raggedy. I need to try and find a brush I can use on her. She has course hair, but it isn't real stiff. I think I have mentioned before, she will be fine and then matt up over night. I really hate to get her haircut this time of year. The cold and all being new to us. She is already cold. She has a snuggie and a sweater, neither of which she is fond of wearing. She would rather cuddle up in a blanket or one of our snug sacks.........Furbabies, whats a mom to do?

Hope everyone has a beautiful day.


LOL! Well, I can't say I've ever tried any of the products on myself, though I've thought before of trying the rinseless shampoo on days I didn't have the energy to shower. ;)

You should definitely check out the brushes on that site, as they have ones specifically for coarse and wirey types of coats. They're not as low-cost as the brushes you'll find in Petco/Petsmart, but they last a long time and the quality is excellent. I use a pin brush, a slicker brush, and two types of bristle brushes from Chris Christensen. (The reason I don't use one of his combs is 'cause I prefer the kind of comb teeth that rotate. If he had a comb with rotating teeth, I'd definitely get it.)

[rangeley]

Hey, Rangeley. Are you the one whose January cruise goes to some of the same islands mine does (including Barbados, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts)? I can't recall who it was and I'm too lazy right now to search the thread to look back to see who I was talking to about the requirements, LOL. ;)

If so, I know you said you didn't do the rabies titers (I believe you didn't book early enough to do the six-month wait for St. Lucia and you just aren't going to do the two St. Kitts requires [or maybe you're not going to that island?]), but I think you are going to still try to see if they'll let you off at those ports? If so, are you going to apply for the import permits or are you going to not try for them since you didn't do the titers? I'm wondering because I'm trying to figure out when I should apply for them to give those non-responding countries enough time (perhaps) to fax the permits back to me. I have a two-and-a-half week timeframe when I'll be able to get the health certificate and bring it to the USDA for endorsement and I leave for Puerto Rico (debarkation port) three days before the debarkation day, so I'm trying to figure things out (although the USDA app't can't be made 'til two weeks beforehand 'cause they are strange over there, LOL).

Also, just a reminder for you to come back on this thread right after your cruise and let me know if any of the islands let you get off the ship there, as that could help in my planning. :) Thanks!


Quam, We are going in January and we only booked 4 months out so we did not do the rabies titer. I found this help page in the Jet Blue site and I noticed in the past few months some of the requirements have changed. Barbados where you could not bring your dog seems to be different as well as St. Maarten which had no info, now says all you need is health cert and rabies. We are happy cuz we want to get off there. This week I will call the numbers given and check out St. Lucia and Barbados. We are not going to St. Kitts. Here is the link , it doesn't have every island but it does have a few. http://help.jetblue.com/SRVS/CGI-BIN/webisapi.dll?New,Kb=askBlue,case=obj(391949)#s15 Hope this helps alittle.

Cindy

[rangeley]

I always knew Roz was a biter :eek:

[rangeley]

Cindy: No, last snow melted pretty quickly. Just little patches here and there. Trav says he wants snow for Christmas. Thats ok, as long as I don't have to drive in it, too much!

Jezzy Lou did so well, I just wonder if that will last after the muzzle is off. They are both gun shy with her. Can't blame them, but don't know if she senses it. We will go slow with her.



I thought there was tons of snow there. Every night on the news they show the country and Colorado seems to be getting storms. Maybe they are north of you.

[rangeley]

Roz, I almost forgot about this, but when you were gone there was a thread started on the HAL board about dogs on cruise ships. I guess there was some small dog on one of the ships. The owner let the dog eat and drink off the MDR table. He also supposedly let the dog jump in the pool several times, which had to be drained and cleaned each time the dog went in for health reasons. He also left the dog on the balcony alone!!:eek: And it crawled under the divider and onto other peoples balconies. I just can't imagine how stupid a person could be letting a dog on a cruise ship balcony alone!!!!! Anyways, this woman "Pam in CA" wrote and said she knew this woman on the boards who had a black lab service dog named Brenda. She also stated that Brenda was a 9/11 rescue dog who retired from that and is now a service dog with this person ib CA. Do you know this woman? Brenny wasn't a rescue 9/11 dog was she??? I had just assumed it was you cuz how many service dogs from CA named Brenda are there? Maybe you can clear it up for me.

Cindy

[S.S. Cruisers]

Cindy: As silly as it sounds, we are N/E of Denver. I guess the mountains (Rocky Mountains?) that are N/W of Denver is where all the snow is. We are fortunate. Trav and Jezzy Lou just came in from playing out back. Its 37F they lasted about 20 minutes. But got some energy expent..........

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz, I almost forgot about this, but when you were gone there was a thread started on the HAL board about dogs on cruise ships. I guess there was some small dog on one of the ships. The owner let the dog eat and drink off the MDR table. He also supposedly let the dog jump in the pool several times, which had to be drained and cleaned each time the dog went in for health reasons. He also left the dog on the balcony alone!!:eek: And it crawled under the divider and onto other peoples balconies. I just can't imagine how stupid a person could be letting a dog on a cruise ship balcony alone!!!!! Anyways, this woman "Pam in CA" wrote and said she knew this woman on the boards who had a black lab service dog named Brenda. She also stated that Brenda was a 9/11 rescue dog who retired from that and is now a service dog with this person ib CA. Do you know this woman? Brenny wasn't a rescue 9/11 dog was she??? I had just assumed it was you cuz how many service dogs from CA named Brenda are there? Maybe you can clear it up for me.

Cindy

I heard about this dog, as well. Prior to our boarding the Sapphire a woman had a Chihuahua, that she kept on her lap and held or strolled around in a stroller. The Hotel Mgr. said no one observed the dog performing any "tasks" but the woman had paperwork stipulating that the dog picked things-up for her and was not her "Therapy Dog!" She said this dog did not behave badly and the woman did not feed it in the DR - "Yuck!"

On another note; We went to the CCI Open House in Westwood, CA., yesterday [they opened a satillite, very small office] in L.A. for CCI visibility. One of the folks from Oceanside spotted me and said she's been meaning to call me. She said that Brenda was one of very few 10.5 year old dogs still actively working here on the west coast. She wanted to place me on the "waiting list" for a successor dog. She wants Brenda to retire being in good health. And, she wants me to "want" the same........
.........."NOT!" Don't misunderstand me. I do want Brenny to be very well and happy when she retires and stays at home with PaPa and, to do absolutely whatever she wants. I'm just not ready to give in to it, yet.

You should have seen me........the tears just started coming down my cheeks, landing on my silk blouse......I'm a strong/smart/assertive/working woman. It takes a lot to bring me to weepy/tears. Brenda and the likes of Brenda turn me to "mush!"

Anyway, she suggested that I go on the "wait list" which is now 2 YEARS LONG. That's what it was when we were first waiting for Brenny and, I waited the full 2 years. She said to start the "process" now......so the wait wouldn't be so long. (I'm sure that successor folks get "bumped-up" the list but we didn't talk about that.) I could hardly speak of the fact of Brenny not being with me EVERY DAY!

This is an issue that I MUST face and believe me, I ruminate over it DAILY!!!!! I will be getting the paperwork any day now........she's going to call the main office in Santa Rosa and the "wheel turning" will begin.

[rangeley]

Rangeley was 12 and still going to school everyday. John never felt he was ready to retire even then. I don't think there should be a certain age when they retire. You and Brenny will know when it's time, not some woman who doesn't even know you. JMO

Cindy

[wizard-of-roz]

Rangeley was 12 and still going to school everyday. John never felt he was ready to retire even then. I don't think there should be a certain age when they retire. You and Brenny will know when it's time, not some woman who doesn't even know you. JMO

Cindy

I so agree......I'm going to keep Brenny working and watch her. I know what the "slowing down" and "refusal's" look like and, I'll keep myself in tune to her [like I don't watch her like a hawk enough!!!] She's starting to look at me like she's thinking......"Leave me alone, will ya!"

Was Rangeley a CCI dog? I love this organization and, I think they keep a great eye on their dogs. That being said......I live with Brenny, I'll watch her and see if I notice any real remarkable changes.

And, I'll go from there.......

[rangeley]

Rangeley was from another org close to us. He was a wonderful dog! But he thought he was better than other dogs and some humans. I remember this girl in our building took someones little dog out to potty, and Rangeley was so mad, he wouldn't go near her for 2 weeks. He was very friendly. Didn't like to play, just wanted to walk around and sniff. He was my boy!!

[rangeley]

I'm not sure if I posted to many pics of him. Heres a few favorites.

[wizard-of-roz]

Rangeley was from another org close to us. He was a wonderful dog! But he thought he was better than other dogs and some humans. I remember this girl in our building took someones little dog out to potty, and Rangeley was so mad, he wouldn't go near her for 2 weeks. He was very friendly. Didn't like to play, just wanted to walk around and sniff. He was my boy!!

He KNEW he was better.....I love that!!!! I don't think Brenny thinks she's better....I just think she has no idea she's a dog.

When other dogs approach her she looks at them like their space aliens. She'll do the sniffing of the butt but she doesn't care for too much interaction with them. She almost looks "clumsy" when it comes to the "play" thing. It's like she'll try and "romp" and then she'll quit, mid-romp and look at me like; "what am I supposed to do?" She prefers to just hang out with the "humans!" And, observe the foolish play!

She's kind of like the "Mom" who's always criticizing the kids........ "You're not doing this right, you're not doing that right", "be careful, you'll poke your eye out!" And, on and on!!!!!!

She can get "goofy" and "playful" but, only with humans. She'll NEVER let her guard down so the dogs can see it. So weird!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

I'm not sure if I posted to many pics of him. Heres a few favorites.

Oh! Cindy! I can't stop staring at this dog. He was a gorgeous boy!!!!!! I know how much you loved him......He sure shows it!!!!!!

Geeeezzzzz, here goes the tears. I love this dog. That Lab face......Those eyes!

Thanks for sharing the pictures.....I had so much fun watching him in the snow!

[rangeley]

Those pics are from his last summer and winter, so he is almost 12yrs old.

[DisneyKidsDad]

I so agree......I'm going to keep Brenny working and watch her. I know what the "slowing down" and "refusal's" look like and, I'll keep myself in tune to her [like I don't watch her like a hawk enough!!!] She's starting to look at me like she's thinking......"Leave me alone, will ya!"

Was Rangeley a CCI dog? I love this organization and, I think they keep a great eye on their dogs. That being said......I live with Brenny, I'll watch her and see if I notice any real remarkable changes.

And, I'll go from there.......

I'm very glad we are a long way off with Orson. The one thing you have to remember with dogs is that it is instinct with them not to show sickness or pain. That would get them killed in the pack. If you are seeing the refusals and slowing down, then maybe it's time to at least get on the list. You can always refuse if they call. If it's like initial team training, you have three refusals before you are off the list. You know your dog better than anyone on the planet. But sometimes we are not as objective as we need to be.
Just my two cents.

[wizard-of-roz]

I'm very glad we are a long way off with Orson. The one thing you have to remember with dogs is that it is instinct with them not to show sickness or pain. That would get them killed in the pack. If you are seeing the refusals and slowing down, then maybe it's time to at least get on the list. You can always refuse if they call. If it's like initial team training, you have three refusals before you are off the list. You know your dog better than anyone on the planet. But sometimes we are not as objective as we need to be.
Just my two cents.


You are so right......I know you are. And, to be perfectly honest.....she is slowing down. I'm one of those fast walkers and I find myself having to encourage her to stay at my side more and more these days. At first I thought it was because she was "foraging" for food but when I turn around she just gives me those big brown eyes.......as if to say........"I'm older than you, can you walk a little slower!"

I'm also using the ramp more and more because she's not always willing to jump into the SUV [when she shows me a refusal on this, after two attempts....I don't ask again, I just get out the ramp].

Throw the ball in the backyard and she's 2 again!!!!!! It's how I test her to see if she's limping or favoring a leg. She's not. She's just getting older!!!!!

Thanks for your two cents [you do it in such a nice way it's easy to hear you]......I need to be encouraged from my friends as well as CCI to go on the list and, as you say, I can always refuse.

I know most dogs don't show their pain and suffering. When Brenny's not feeling well she becomes very restless and paces. My friend has a dog that whines and whines and whines........poor thing!

Is she still "sharp" as ever when it comes to "alerts" and "picking things up" and, pushing the door and on and on.......you bet! It's the jumping into the tall truck and walking at a fast pace [to keep up with me!] I do slow myself down but sometimes, at work, we're moving in and out of areas very quickly and, fast is the only speed!!!!!

What's the worst that can happen? She gets to stay home and play with PaPa and, she gets a "buddy" to keep her company. She's not crazy about dogs.....we'll see!

And, in order for me to work, I must have a Working Dog or a human who will accompany me wherever I go!!!!!

[sunshine426]

Roz, I am so sorry that you are in this position to make such a decision. Their is another dog out there with your name on it, just waiting.... and it can wait until the time is right. I can tell you from the volunteer world, how excited we would be to see a dog placed with you. One that would work every day, be loved every day and ...well I guess that is enough. Only you and Brenny will know the right time. However, it their is a wait list, maybe it would not be a bad idea to get on it....

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz, I am so sorry that you are in this position to make such a decision. Their is another dog out there with your name on it, just waiting.... and it can wait until the time is right. I can tell you from the volunteer world, how excited we would be to see a dog placed with you. One that would work every day, be loved every day and ...well I guess that is enough. Only you and Brenny will know the right time. However, it their is a wait list, maybe it would not be a bad idea to get on it....

I get excited when I see all the dogs. They're so gorgeously, wonderful! And, whoever that glorious Working Dog is; he/she will fast become an Elite Cruiser with me. ;)

Thank you for your wonderful support!

I'm waiting for the application papers; I'll do my doctor visit; I'll wait for the interview process to begin and go on the list.

God! I knew this time would come......but, it's so, so difficult! Not for me, just for Brenny..........Shoot, here come the tears!!!!!!!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Cindy: No, I hadn't seen pictures of your beautiful, handsome, boy! Thank you for sharing.

Roz: :( is all I can muster right now. Too many tears. I gather up my little Jezzy Lou and hold her tight every chance I get. Never too much. She eats it up.

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:
Cindy: No, I hadn't seen pictures of your beautiful, handsome, boy! Thank you for sharing.

Roz: :( is all I can muster right now. Too many tears. I gather up my little Jezzy Lou and hold her tight every chance I get. Never too much. She eats it up.


OMG! Nancy, don't get me started. I wear eye make-up and have not been able to keep it looking good since last weekend! I'm a "schmeary" mess.

I know, "count my blessings, enjoy each and every moment"......she's not ill, she's vibrant and happy and still going with me.......everywhere!!!!!! Stop!!!!!

I have to share: Brenny and I had a talk last night.......I told her about my "bucket-list".....Cruising under the Golden Gate Bridge with her. Were signed-up for this cruise for September 24, 2011. And, if she would just stay well......I promised her to be very easy on any un-due demands until then [no big trips to the mall, or too much running and and we'll ALWAYS use her ramp for the car!] She, PaPa and I will go under that bridge together. And, then she can retire with 15 cruises under her collar. We'll know that we all shared a dream together!!!!!

You guys will not believe the money I spend on professional portraits of Brenny on formal nights - In every area of the ship!

Okay, to those of you who think I obsess over this.....You're right!! :( Gotta go........I can't stop tearing!!!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Peter: I read Cameron's story on an email from CCI. I had chills. Wherin is certainly making a difference in his life, which in turn makes all your lives that much better!

When's your next cruise?

[Todd's pet]

Hello all! It's been several weeks and we just came home from our Carnival cruise! This thread made things go SO much easier for us on our first service dog cruise!!

First, let me say that I FREAKED out when the vet charged $150.00 to fill out the health cert! How crazy! I called my regular vet and she said she would order some forms for our next cruise (she charges $25). Getting everything done was much easier than I expected. Todd had gotten a rabies shot back in October so that was done, he's on monthly heartworm so they only needed to do a fecal, and we did the frontline thing just in case. The only thing we did not do was the rabies titer required for Grand Caymen so Todd stayed on board for the 3 hours we were on shore.

Mexico was the only place that gave us trouble. They insisted on keeping my ORIGINAL health certificate even though I had made several copies and taken them with me. Then she wanted me to to leave my original rabies certificate and I refused. I offered her one of my copies and after MUCH arguing, she finally took the copy and the original hc and let us on shore. It was NUTS.

Carnival was AWESOME! We are booking our summer cruise to Alaska with them. They had someone waiting for us outside when we pulled up with our luggage. She walked us through the line quickly and within 25min we were on board! They put Todd's litter box on our balcony and came by TWICE that day to make sure everything was all right for him. The staff was amazing EVERYWHERE on the ship!! They all knew not to pet him unless they asked and were very quick to tell passengers that he was allowed on board because he is a service dog, NOT a pet. They jumped in almost EVERY time someone confronted me about it. I could have kissed them all. Most knew him by name by the 3rd day and they all said hi to HIM when we passed. (I'm SURE that they would NOT recognize me if I ran smack into them if I was withOUT Todd! LOL)

We took mulch for Todd's box and my Dad made a stick on a block so that he would have something to "aim" at. BUT. . . . . Todd simply refused to use the litter box for the ENTIRE trip!! He went from Sunday at about 11am till Wed morning without going potty! I was SOOOOO worried about him. Then when we got off the ship he peed for 10 minutes solid and pooed 4 times!! He were off ship the next 3 days so he was ok just waiting but our last day was at sea and he jumped up on my husbands pillow and well, let's just say, nature called. I grabbed a towel as quickly as I could and we washed out the pillow and the pillow case and told the porter what happened. The poor porter was SO upset for Todd. Needless to say we will do a LOT of litterbox training before our next cruise!!

Given that Todd is so small, they allowed him to sit on the bench seat with us at the shows. The space for him to lay was limited and if he was behind my feet, my feet stuck out into the aisle and made it difficult for people to pass. I had taken several floor pads for him so we put one on the bench between my husband and myself and Todd laid there. (then no hair was left on the bench)

Todd LOVED the glass elevators! We tried to use them whenever we could so he could look out. Most of the time though, he just worked and was his quiet self. Many people stated they didn't even know he was there unless they happened to see him get up and leave with us.

We did use his "visit" command a lot though. I had used Todd as a therapy dog for years with younger clients, (I'm a Psychologist) so he knew what "visit" meant. I used this to allow people to pet him from time to time. For most people I just told them he was working and could not be petted but so many of the staff hadn't seen their pets for MONTHS and it meant so much to them to get to pet him and get one of his famous Toddy Man kisses!!

Even though we went through all that training together to get him ready to be a service dog, this was really a HUGE test for him and he did wonderfully. He only had to alert me twice the entire 7 days, so the vacation must have done us BOTH some good!

I wanted to say a HUGE thank you again for all your advice and support. When struggling with the decision to use a service dog, I NEVER dreamed it would give me the freedom that it does. I don't know what I would do without Todd, he is truly a "guardian Angel"!!

I will try and post a pic of him as soon as I can and Thank you ALL again for all your support! This trip would not have been possible without all the information I found right here!

[wizard-of-roz]

Todd's Pet: Thanks for sharing your experiences with us. I'm glad your cruise was a good one.

My Suggestion [if I may]: For future cruisings - Please, practice, practice, practice with a "potty box"; in your garage, backyard, living room, closet or wherever - before you attempt to ask your Service Dog to potty in a box you MUST take the time to practice. It will only take a short time, even only an hour for your dog to become accustomed to going in a small contained area. And, use this for a few days, only!!!

[Brenda has to circle in the containment for a while before she finds her comfort zone].....allow for any sort of different behavior.....but insist that it be IN THE BOX! Repeat it over and over and don't forget the REWARD!!!! ;) For Brenda it's a tennis ball!!!!!

Your attitude is so wonderful over what could have made for the worst experience ever for all of you. And, your dog's ability to hold onto urine and pooh as long as he did is truly a miracle.

Isn't it fun, this Cruising With a Service Dog thing!!! :) Don't forget the pictures. We want to see them.

[Todd's pet]

Thanks and YES YES YES, we will PRACTICE and PRACTICE before we go again. I was SO afraid for him and what it was doing to his system. He has a very good potty command and has gone in strange places for me in the past so I thought we'd be ok. My hubby reminded me though, that he has NEVER been asked to go inside. Even though he was on the balcony, I don't think he perceived it as "outside". He would look up at me with such a confused face, it broke my heart.

My Dad said he would make us a "potty box" of our own so we can practice at home. I thought we'd start by having him potty "in the box" while it is outside, then on our deck, and eventually in the house. He was such a trooper but I swear you could see his teeth floating!! LOL

Pics coming. . . . . promise!

[wizard-of-roz]

Thanks and YES YES YES, we will PRACTICE and PRACTICE before we go again. I was SO afraid for him and what it was doing to his system. He has a very good potty command and has gone in strange places for me in the past so I thought we'd be ok. My hubby reminded me though, that he has NEVER been asked to go inside. Even though he was on the balcony, I don't think he perceived it as "outside". He would look up at me with such a confused face, it broke my heart.

My Dad said he would make us a "potty box" of our own so we can practice at home. I thought we'd start by having him potty "in the box" while it is outside, then on our deck, and eventually in the house. He was such a trooper but I swear you could see his teeth floating!! LOL

Pics coming. . . . . promise!

You sound like you have a wonderful support system, with your Dad and Hubby.

You'll see how easy Todd will take to the box. Just make sure that it's big enough and not too tall on the sides so that he can just step into it easily. And, fill it with mulch or something that you know he'll be comfortable with. Don't make the "litter" in the box too shallow or he'll have a hard time gripping it.

We started Brenda with actual grass on sod. The kind that gardners use when they're laying grass. We bought it at a nursery, it comes in strips. It took two to fit and cover her box well. Once she was used to using the box, we transitioned to artificial turf [a little pricey but it lasts a long, long time.] And, when we started cruising she was willing to go into anything the ship used [except the paper pellets, ouch!]

Have fun with the training, keep it positive! With your wonderful attitude, I know it can't be anything but!!!!! ;)

[Quampapetet]

Quam, We are going in January and we only booked 4 months out so we did not do the rabies titer. I found this help page in the Jet Blue site and I noticed in the past few months some of the requirements have changed. Barbados where you could not bring your dog seems to be different as well as St. Maarten which had no info, now says all you need is health cert and rabies. We are happy cuz we want to get off there. This week I will call the numbers given and check out St. Lucia and Barbados. We are not going to St. Kitts. Here is the link , it doesn't have every island but it does have a few. http://help.jetblue.com/SRVS/CGI-BIN/webisapi.dll?New,Kb=askBlue,case=obj(391949)#s15 Hope this helps alittle.

Cindy

I've seen that page before (comes up in a Google search) and I'm guessing they just don't know the regulations or want to put them up.

Here's the St. Lucia gov't site's dog import regulations page: http://www.stlucia.gov.lc/faq/what_are_the_requirements_to_do_to_bring_in_my_dog _cat.htm

I once found Barbados' official site's page, but guess I never bookmarked it. It is hard to find.

(Sorry I'm late to reply; I came down with the bug that's going around, ugh! I hate being sick, especially the whole burning sore throat thing!! I'm over that part now, but still have a bad cough, which is tiring.)

[Quampapetet]

Roz, I almost forgot about this, but when you were gone there was a thread started on the HAL board about dogs on cruise ships. I guess there was some small dog on one of the ships. The owner let the dog eat and drink off the MDR table. He also supposedly let the dog jump in the pool several times, which had to be drained and cleaned each time the dog went in for health reasons. He also left the dog on the balcony alone!!:eek: And it crawled under the divider and onto other peoples balconies. I just can't imagine how stupid a person could be letting a dog on a cruise ship balcony alone!!!!!

:mad: How terrible!!!! I hope the cruiseline bans that person from cruising!

There was a thread on the Carnival board where somebody mentioned seeing somebody let their small dog eat from the plates and drink from the glasses in the MDR! :mad: Utterly disgusting, not to mention that just makes those of us with real service dogs look bad!

[Quampapetet]

First, let me say that I FREAKED out when the vet charged $150.00 to fill out the health cert! How crazy! I called my regular vet and she said she would order some forms for our next cruise (she charges $25). Getting everything done was much easier than I expected. Todd had gotten a rabies shot back in October so that was done, he's on monthly heartworm so they only needed to do a fecal, and we did the frontline thing just in case. The only thing we did not do was the rabies titer required for Grand Caymen so Todd stayed on board for the 3 hours we were on shore.

That's a little high, but not extremely high. I think it is about $130 from my vet (that's the total - includes the visit fee [the fee just for seeing the vet, which is over $60] and the int'l health certificate fee). I'm not sure if you meant you went to a different vet than your usual vet or not, but you need to get the certificate done at a USDA-certified vet. At my vet's office, only two of the several vets are USDA-certified, so only those two vets can do the certificates.

If you went to Mexico before you went to Grand Cayman, the rabies titer wouldn't have mattered anyway, as Cayman doesn't allow dogs from Mexico.

Mexico was the only place that gave us trouble. They insisted on keeping my ORIGINAL health certificate even though I had made several copies and taken them with me. Then she wanted me to to leave my original rabies certificate and I refused. I offered her one of my copies and after MUCH arguing, she finally took the copy and the original hc and let us on shore. It was NUTS.

That's strange! You'd think she'd understand that you need to have the original rabies certificate until it expires! Weird.

Also, when I did Mexico, the ship handled all the paperwork, so I didn't see any Mexican officials like you did. (It was this way at all ports I've been to on my cruises.)

We took mulch for Todd's box and my Dad made a stick on a block so that he would have something to "aim" at.

LOL! Todd isn't trained to squat, though? I know a lot of, if not most, male service dogs are trained to squat because they could otherwise make a mess of a public place (side of a signpost or building or something).

BUT. . . . . Todd simply refused to use the litter box for the ENTIRE trip!! He went from Sunday at about 11am till Wed morning without going potty! I was SOOOOO worried about him. Then when we got off the ship he peed for 10 minutes solid and pooed 4 times!! He were off ship the next 3 days so he was ok just waiting but our last day was at sea and he jumped up on my husbands pillow and well, let's just say, nature called. I grabbed a towel as quickly as I could and we washed out the pillow and the pillow case and told the porter what happened. The poor porter was SO upset for Todd. Needless to say we will do a LOT of litterbox training before our next cruise!!

Poor Todd!! I can't imagine not using the bathroom in that long! :eek:

Service dogs need to be trained to "go" on a variety of surfaces, not just grass. You should train him to go on dirt, mulch, etc. - whatever absorbant surfaces you have around you. (Some train their dogs to go on non-absorbant surfaces like pavement, too, but I don't like that idea because nobody wants to step in a puddle only to find out it wasn't water!) You should also train him to go in small areas. Sounds like you might not get out much with him (the elevator excitement and all), but sometimes you could be out and the only place to potty is a very, very small area (such as where trees are planted along a city sidewalk). Also, next time you could use potty pads under faux grass; this works well for me without trying to trust the cruiselines that their box will be big enough (we had an issue with that with Royal Caribbean). My dog "goes" fine on mulch, but that box was too small, so now I use faux grass with potty pads underneath and I can make the area as large as I want it, plus it is easier to clean up than mulch.

[rangeley]

I've seen that page before (comes up in a Google search) and I'm guessing they just don't know the regulations or want to put them up.

Here's the St. Lucia gov't site's dog import regulations page: http://www.stlucia.gov.lc/faq/what_are_the_requirements_to_do_to_bring_in_my_dog _cat.htm

I once found Barbados' official site's page, but guess I never bookmarked it. It is hard to find.

(Sorry I'm late to reply; I came down with the bug that's going around, ugh! I hate being sick, especially the whole burning sore throat thing!! I'm over that part now, but still have a bad cough, which is tiring.)

Quam, Sorry to hear you have been sick. Glad you are feeling better.

I have written to St. Lucia and of course no response. Thats just rude! Is the chief vet that busy that he can't write back? I doubt it. I wrote months ago and got no response either. Thats 2 islands we will not be getting off on. Well Wex won't be getting off. Oh and Martinique too. I didn't even try to do anything there. We have been there and theres nothing there we care to see. It's totally inaccessible for a wheelchair unless we want to lift him over curbs. They are not very nice there either.

Cindy

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:

Quam: I'm not sure where you are located, but that nasty little bug has made its way into Colorado! Trav has been sick all week. Poor little guy, he missed the Reindeer Games yesterday and now his Christmas party today. They were allowed to wear pajamas today, they are going to gather around and read Christmas stories. He is upset, but still he even says too sick to go to school.

Hope everyone has a fine Friday and wonderful weekend.

[wizard-of-roz]

The weather here in L.A. is so gloomy and rainy! Half my office is sick.

Last weekend we had a heat wave......We went to the CCI Open House at the satellite office in Westwood and it was so hot you couldn't stay inside!

For us long time L.A. residence we think this is perfect temperature changes for an earthquake! :eek:

My Vet does not charge me extra for the Health Cert. or the Animal Health Statement. He charges me for the exam and immunizations ONLY. He knows Brenda is a Service Dog and doesn't "gouge" me. Please speak to your Vet and ask him/her to do the same. They have the capability to acknowledge the amazing work that these dogs do and recognize it by not charging for necessary documentation and the need for his/her signature. You may need to just ask!!!!!

Feel well everyone.....get your shopping done and again......

HAPPY, HEALTHY HOLIDAY'S

With Love, Roz & Brenda

[sunshine426]

Our weather in Atlanta, pretty cold and certainly not too sunny. So, of course, my friends and I plan a Marta(subway) outing to the city and a visit to the aquarium. Here we are on the subway platform with freezing winds, three dogs, three volunteers, and mittens and scarves a plenty. We laughed and had a good time. Cooler was the youngest and of course the cold weather made her the friskiest. She was wonderful on the subway and had a pretty good heel thru the city with busses and cars and taxi's speeding by. She really did not like walking across the grates, and actually grounded and refused. After an initial attempt to coax her across, I decided to walk around and let her trainer deal with it. Or more than likely I will deal with it on a a nicer day without all the distractions. Then a nice walk across Centennia Olympic Park. (build in 1996 when Atlanta hosted the Summer Games). Could not find where we wanted to have lunch and settled on a nice upscale restarant. More pricy than we wanted, but yummmy crab bisque, and they were so welcoming to our three windblown adults and three pretty dogs....

On to the aquarium. Cooler handled the crowds, the children with calm and some disinterest. She was more interested in me, which was a good thing. That is until we got the the exhibit of penguins. So those are birds. And my dog was quite interestred in them. And the penguins were quite interested in the three dogs. We were all entertained. I was quite ready to go home at the end of the day and pour myself a nice red wine... Cooler had to settle for kibble and scratches....

[Todd's pet]

Quampapetet (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/member.php?u=279932)- Our regular vet would have done it for me but she didn't have the right paperwork (her front desk gal is not so bright). I made the appointment to have it done 2 weeks in advance but THANK GOODNESS the cruise line asked for it a few days early so we found out she had the wrong papers. So I had to call around and find someone who DID have them and only ONE vet in a our small city did so I had to take what I could get. Fortunately, my vet and this vet know each other so they chatted and vet records were verified over the phone. Now that she knows what forms to order, we'll be set for next time.

Mexico-Grand Caymen
I didn't know that. Good think our cruise was in the right order! The ship told me they handled everything for me! The first night on board they came by and told me Todd was cleared for all but Grand Caymen, but we knew that because of his titers. We were shocked when we tried to get off the boat and they would not let us.

Potty training- Typically Todd will go ANYWHERE I tell him to potty or "hurry- hurry" that's why we weren't so worried about pretraining. I have never asked him to go indoors though, I think that's what freaked him out. He's gone on pavement LOTS of times when no other surface is available (I have the wet wipes to clean paws to prove it!) hehehehe He will squat if there is no place to "lift" but given how big they said the box was, we thought we were doing him a favor. (he had no trouble squatting on Eric's pillow! LOL)

He only received his certification this past July so much of this is new to us. While we went through training together, it focused mostly on teaching him to refine his alert skills and "helper" skills. His obedience was already at the highest level so I think we missed out on some things we would have learned if he had been trained from a pup. Almost 3 years ago I went on disability and it was not till then that Todd started to alarm for my heart arrhythmias. Because of my other health issues I was homebound much of the time anyway so taking him with me only included family and friends. Then I happened to talk to a lady whom I'd met years ago who trains service dogs and she suggested we take Todd through a program, so that's what we did. Then we had to take him to have him tested and get all his official papers signed. It took FOREVER to get the training and testing done so three years later, he's finally a "real" service dog.

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0043.JPG

The litter box they provided with mulch and a "pee" stick added!

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0119.JPG

Todd and I.

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0137.JPG

Todd getting ready to have a shark snack. (hmmmm yummy shark)

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0139.JPG

RAAAAAR- Look I'm an alligator!

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0170.JPG

Todd resting after a LONG day. He fell asleep holding his favorite toy.

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0183.JPG

Todd in his beads after a Mardi Gras show.


Please don't think that our trip was about Todd. I took HUNDREDS of pictures, I only posted these of Todd since he is the topic of this board.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Quampapetet (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/member.php?u=279932)- Our regular vet would have done it for me but she didn't have the right paperwork (her front desk gal is not so bright). I made the appointment to have it done 2 weeks in advance but THANK GOODNESS the cruise line asked for it a few days early so we found out she had the wrong papers. So I had to call around and find someone who DID have them and only ONE vet in a our small city did so I had to take what I could get. Fortunately, my vet and this vet know each other so they chatted and vet records were verified over the phone. Now that she knows what forms to order, we'll be set for next time.

Mexico-Grand Caymen
I didn't know that. Good think our cruise was in the right order! The ship told me they handled everything for me! The first night on board they came by and told me Todd was cleared for all but Grand Caymen, but we knew that because of his titers. We were shocked when we tried to get off the boat and they would not let us.

Potty training- Typically Todd will go ANYWHERE I tell him to potty or "hurry- hurry" that's why we weren't so worried about pretraining. I have never asked him to go indoors though, I think that's what freaked him out. He's gone on pavement LOTS of times when no other surface is available (I have the wet wipes to clean paws to prove it!) hehehehe He will squat if there is no place to "lift" but given how big they said the box was, we thought we were doing him a favor. (he had no trouble squatting on Eric's pillow! LOL)

He only received his certification this past July so much of this is new to us. While we went through training together, it focused mostly on teaching him to refine his alert skills and "helper" skills. His obedience was already at the highest level so I think we missed out on some things we would have learned if he had been trained from a pup. Almost 3 years ago I went on disability and it was not till then that Todd started to alarm for my heart arrhythmias. Because of my other health issues I was homebound much of the time anyway so taking him with me only included family and friends. Then I happened to talk to a lady whom I'd met years ago who trains service dogs and she suggested we take Todd through a program, so that's what we did. Then we had to take him to have him tested and get all his official papers signed. It took FOREVER to get the training and testing done so three years later, he's finally a "real" service dog.

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0043.JPG

The litter box they provided with mulch and a "pee" stick added!

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0119.JPG

Todd and I.

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0137.JPG

Todd getting ready to have a shark snack. (hmmmm yummy shark)

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0139.JPG

RAAAAAR- Look I'm an alligator!

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0170.JPG

Todd resting after a LONG day. He fell asleep holding his favorite toy.

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0183.JPG

Todd in his beads after a Mardi Gras show.


Please don't think that our trip was about Todd. I took HUNDREDS of pictures, I only posted these of Todd since he is the topic of this board.

Great pictures. Thank you for sharing them.....he's a cute little guy!!!

It never ceases to amaze me what these dogs are capable of doing. And, the fact that he's capable of saving your life is a miracle in itself.

Keep-up the practice in the "box" and before you know it he'll be a real pro and your cruising will be so much easier for all of you.

The picture of the "potty box" looks pretty good. I'd drop the "pee-stick" thing and insist that he squat. And, it looks like the filler was those damn paper pellets that you covered with mulch. Once Todd uses it enough he'll become more secure.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Todd's Pet: What cute pictures. And the "pee" stick is priceless! Having had a lab, (boy) he still squatted a lot. He would lift his leg, if he felt like it or someone prior to him had peed on a pole, but his favorite position, squatting (standing on three legs, holding 110 lbs) might have been the issue!

Sad news here. Our beloved little adopted outdoor kitty, Callie was runover by a car, the other night. We didn't know about it until the neighbor lady told me. RIP my sweet little girl. All she ever wanted was hugs and scratches.

[dobiemom]

Sad news here. Our beloved little adopted outdoor kitty, Callie was runover by a car, the other night. We didn't know about it until the neighbor lady told me. RIP my sweet little girl. All she ever wanted was hugs and scratches.
I'm so sorry!

[rangeley]

Todds pet, Awesome pics! We were lucky our dog went right in the box. Keep up the training for your next cruise.


Nancy, I'm so sorry to hear about your cat. We know how hard it is when one of our babies passes away. Shes getting all the hugs and scratches she wants now.

Cindy

[sunshine426]

First of all: Nancy, I am so sorry, I know how sad it is to lose a pet...
Tod's pet: Thanks for posting the wonderful pictures and for telling your service dog story. So many of us here just love to hear what wonderful things these dogs do...

Now, onto story time... Well no stories, just relaxing with TWO puppies home for avisit. Lab/golden mixes 7 weeks old and soooooo cute. If my blood pressure drops any lower from holding these pups, I might go into a coma....

[Quampapetet]

Quam, Sorry to hear you have been sick. Glad you are feeling better.

Thanks, I am finally starting to get better as of yesterday! Then, I somehow sprained my wrist while sleeping (yeah, really strange!) and it hurt so bad today that it brought me to tears. Thank goodness for Advil!!!! But, yeah, I'm typing one-handed now and have found it is pretty darn difficult to do simple things like pull up underwear and pants after using the toilet, doing up a sweater's zipper, feed my dog, etc. This better heal real soon 'cause I haven't done any gift wrapping yet!!

I have written to St. Lucia and of course no response. Thats just rude! Is the chief vet that busy that he can't write back? I doubt it. I wrote months ago and got no response either. Thats 2 islands we will not be getting off on. Well Wex won't be getting off. Oh and Martinique too. I didn't even try to do anything there. We have been there and theres nothing there we care to see. It's totally inaccessible for a wheelchair unless we want to lift him over curbs. They are not very nice there either.

Cindy

Yeah, I sent a zillion e-mails to all sorts of addresses for the countries and sent them faxes to the number one needs to fax for the import certificates, but only Dominica replied to an e-mail (and then the cruiseline nixed that port) and only the Netherlands person gave me a fax back, which was an e-mail address for St. Maarten, who never wrote back.

I'm still going to try to get import permits from all the countries that need them and, if they don't get back to me with them, will bring along the proof from the fax machine that I did fax for them, so it is their fault I don't have them.

Martinique sounds like a good faux sea day for ya! Stinks that it is so boring and hard to get around.

[Quampapetet]

Mornin' all:

Quam: I'm not sure where you are located, but that nasty little bug has made its way into Colorado! Trav has been sick all week. Poor little guy, he missed the Reindeer Games yesterday and now his Christmas party today. They were allowed to wear pajamas today, they are going to gather around and read Christmas stories. He is upset, but still he even says too sick to go to school.

Hope everyone has a fine Friday and wonderful weekend.



Aww, parties are the worst to have to miss! :( I hope he feels better real soon! I've had it for a little over a week and a family member of mine has had it for longer (finally went to the doc today) and another family member also is starting to get better.

[Quampapetet]

The weather here in L.A. is so gloomy and rainy! Half my office is sick.

Last weekend we had a heat wave......We went to the CCI Open House at the satellite office in Westwood and it was so hot you couldn't stay inside!

For us long time L.A. residence we think this is perfect temperature changes for an earthquake! :eek:

My Vet does not charge me extra for the Health Cert. or the Animal Health Statement. He charges me for the exam and immunizations ONLY. He knows Brenda is a Service Dog and doesn't "gouge" me. Please speak to your Vet and ask him/her to do the same. They have the capability to acknowledge the amazing work that these dogs do and recognize it by not charging for necessary documentation and the need for his/her signature. You may need to just ask!!!!!

Feel well everyone.....get your shopping done and again......

HAPPY, HEALTHY HOLIDAY'S

With Love, Roz & Brenda

Hope you don't get an earthquake! The only earthquake I've been in was in the Alps in winter with plenty of snow on the ground, so I don't know how temperatures affect them or anything.

I get the VCA discount from IAADP, which includes for app'ts for health certificates.

[Quampapetet]

Quampapetet (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/member.php?u=279932)- Our regular vet would have done it for me but she didn't have the right paperwork (her front desk gal is not so bright). I made the appointment to have it done 2 weeks in advance but THANK GOODNESS the cruise line asked for it a few days early so we found out she had the wrong papers. So I had to call around and find someone who DID have them and only ONE vet in a our small city did so I had to take what I could get. Fortunately, my vet and this vet know each other so they chatted and vet records were verified over the phone. Now that she knows what forms to order, we'll be set for next time.

Ah, that stinks! Strange they didn't have the papers already, but I understand about not-so-bright vet office folks! :p Why didn't the other vet just give your vet the papers? Were they pre-stamped for that vet or something?

Mexico-Grand Caymen
I didn't know that. Good think our cruise was in the right order! The ship told me they handled everything for me! The first night on board they came by and told me Todd was cleared for all but Grand Caymen, but we knew that because of his titers. We were shocked when we tried to get off the boat and they would not let us.

If you do Cayman after Mexico, you just won't be able to get off the ship is all; you won't be prevented from going on the cruise. Just like if your cruise goes to Jamaica, where dogs can't get off at all, you can't get off the ship (and might not be able to go outside on the ship), but can still go on the cruise.


http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0043.JPG


That looks just like the box Royal Caribbean put out for my dog (on a public area of the ship), except my dog is a lot bigger than yours so the box was way too small for my dog! It was terrible.


http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0137.JPG

Todd getting ready to have a shark snack. (hmmmm yummy shark)

http://photos.imageevent.com/roskovalley/toddpics/websize/IMGP0139.JPG

RAAAAAR- Look I'm an alligator!


LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Those photos are hilarious!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(And do the ppl who made them not know what an alligator looks like?! Look where they put the eyes!)

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Nancy; I hope your little kitty didn't suffer and I'm sorry for your loss.

The rain here in L.A. is the most we've seen since 1952. Amazing! Brenda loves to walk in the puddles.....what a sight! She's so funny...she doesn't like to get dirty and walks like a prima-dona in the dirt but get her near a rain puddle and she turns into a pup!

Roz has been involved with the "end of year campaign" at work. There's so much money needed with all the economic downturns fundraising agencies are overwhelmed with homeless and foodbank demands. It's always an interesting dynamic in our house, this time of year. We want to celebrate but are constantly reminded of the children and seniors who are struggling and, it's especially hard to see it this time of the year.

Sunshine; I hope you got that drink that you deserved. And, Quam stay well and take care of that wrist.

Everyone have a Merry Christmas and lots of love and licks in the New Year!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all

Morey: Thank you for the update. I was beginning to wonder about Roz. Glad everything is good.

I just realized why I don't like the holidays. Morey hit it on the head. It is very hard for me to get in the spirit when I know there are so many people suffering just trying to keep food on the table. Then there are our services members that are in a hell hole protecting us from idiots. I will stop there, I don't want to bring everyone else down. Just my thoughts.

[wizard-of-roz]

Hi, I'm just inundated with such sad, sad stories.....I've worked here for over 13 years and I've never seen it like this. It's absolutely "bleek" out there.

If you have a roof over your head, heat in your home, food on your table and family and friends to turn to.......be grateful. I had to get one of Morey's extra jackets out of the back of our car and give it to a man who was walking into our building.....so sad!!!!

I know I don't need to remind all of you of what's going on, it's just overwhelming. And, it's not going away any time soon.....No more sad............

Let's talk holidays, cruising and dogs. I love when the weather is like this, especially at this time of year. It just brings the whole feeling to reality. I can remember when we were celebrating Christmas and it was 82 degrees outside [didn't feel like Christmas to me!] I love the smells in the house and the fireplaces going......love it!

Well, we did it. I sent in the Successor dog application papers [geeezz, am I getting a dog or a C.I.A. Agent?], along with a picture of the three of us [of course, it was while we were onboard a cruise] -It was so hard to do but I know the time is right and, Brenny is ready. Everything here, at the office, will go home with her [including her crate.] She will have a "comfort zone" and more love than she'll know how to handle with Morey.

It's just hard to give-up that closeness and special bond that she and I share at work. I know it's best for her and I want her to be a healthy and happy senior!!!!!!! Hopefully, it won't happen so fast........CCI does have a "wait-list", we'll see how that goes.

Unfortunately, or should I say fortunately, I have become very accustomed to the service's that these amazing dogs offer and I would find it very difficult to work without one.

In the mean time I'm going to enjoy every working second with Miss "B"!

Have fun everyone and take good care of YOU!!!!!!!

[Valentine's Mom]

Hi, I'm just inundated with such sad, sad stories.....I've worked here for over 13 years and I've never seen it like this. It's absolutely "bleek" out there.

If you have a roof over your head, heat in your home, food on your table and family and friends to turn to.......be grateful. I had to get one of Morey's extra jackets out of the back of our car and give it to a man who was walking into our building.....so sad!!!!

I know I don't need to remind all of you of what's going on, it's just overwhelming. And, it's not going away any time soon.....No more sad............

Let's talk holidays, cruising and dogs. I love when the weather is like this, especially at this time of year. It just brings the whole feeling to reality. I can remember when we were celebrating Christmas and it was 82 degrees outside [didn't feel like Christmas to me!] I love the smells in the house and the fireplaces going......love it!

Well, we did it. I sent in the Successor dog application papers [geeezz, am I getting a dog or a C.I.A. Agent?], along with a picture of the three of us [of course, it was while we were onboard a cruise] -It was so hard to do but I know the time is right and, Brenny is ready. Everything here, at the office, will go home with her [including her crate.] She will have a "comfort zone" and more love than she'll know how to handle with Morey.

It's just hard to give-up that closeness and special bond that she and I share at work. I know it's best for her and I want her to be a healthy and happy senior!!!!!!! Hopefully, it won't happen so fast........CCI does have a "wait-list", we'll see how that goes.

Unfortunately, or should I say fortunately, I have become very accustomed to the service's that these amazing dogs offer and I would find it very difficult to work without one.

In the mean time I'm going to enjoy every working second with Miss "B"!

Have fun everyone and take good care of YOU!!!!!!!


Roz. I am so sorry. Really! If it isn't too prying may I ask what the final reasoning was? I have been watching Valentine lately and I believe that she too is getting close. She has what I call "old people eyes." They seem somehow smaller and watery. I'm also starting to suspect arthritis and will be taking her to the vet soon for that,
The school she went to is out of business and I have no idea how to get another dog, She turned 10 on December 15th. So far she still wants to go out with me all of the time and hasn't balked at doing anthing asked of her and her alerting is still exemplery. Sometimes Mommy just worries.

Happy Hollidays to everyone and especallly your fur babies!!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Roz. I am so sorry. Really! If it isn't too prying may I ask what the final reasoning was? I have been watching Valentine lately and I believe that she too is getting close. She has what I call "old people eyes." They seem somehow smaller and watery. I'm also starting to suspect arthritis and will be taking her to the vet soon for that,
The school she went to is out of business and I have no idea how to get another dog, She turned 10 on December 15th. So far she still wants to go out with me all of the time and hasn't balked at doing anthing asked of her and her alerting is still exemplery. Sometimes Mommy just worries.

Happy Hollidays to everyone and especallly your fur babies!!

I'm on Morey's computer, I hope I can send this right. If not, I'll do it again from my computer at work tomorrow.

I didn't recognize the "signs" right away but it was so obvious once I was willing to face it and not be so self obsorbed in trying to keep her with me every moment.

Every morning Brenny and I walk into the Center, where I work and where Brenda has been by my side for over 8 years. I found that she was trailing behind me more and more in the last year and I had to continually give her "directives" such as "let's go", "Brenda, side". Then I found myself stopping to allow her to catch-up. When I would go shopping with her, I noticed she wanted to take a break by lying down more often. I drive a big SUV and she jumps in and out of it daily but she was starting to refuse to jump in. I purchased a ramp and she goes up it with ease but it's just not her.

The Vet checked her legs, hips and joints, he found no particular swelling or pain upon movement and she had a good range of motion. He said that he felt she could have some soft tissue swelling that he's not feeling and would be very normal for older dogs.

Brenda also has a few fatty tumors that could be pressing on nerves, ligaments and muscles. Again, very normal for the senior dog and especially the Lab.

Like Valentine, Brenda loves to work. Her hearing, vision and other skills are as sharp as they were when she was 2.

CCI and the Vet both believe that Brenda's refusals are based on muscle weakness and the normal aging process, even though there is no significant physical changes [of which we're thrilled to hear!]

The Vet said that the reason she's not displaying a lot of Arthritis could be due to her diet and suppletments [of which I've given her since we got her!] It's so worth the extra money and especially worth it since she doesn't have to endure the joint pain and deterioration that can come with the aging process. Although some dogs can suffer with this even though their owners have given them all the supplements and good diet. Sometimes it's just pure luck and genetics.....just like in humans.

Because Service Dogs are so highly trained and want to please I really have to be fair to her and give her the best retirement to enjoy her "down" time in the very best of health, instead of being sickly. I owe it to her!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Roz: You are the best mom and mom's just know what is right. Ms. Brenny will be a better pup by staying home with dad and getting that extra rest. She will be so happy to see mom at the end of the day, she will show her delight. She will be the best big sister and teacher for a little sibling. Be at peace with yourself.

Ms. Valentine's mom: Same goes for you. You have angel's at your sides, that will always be your angels!

[rangeley]

Ok Girls enough of this talk!!! :mad: It's hard enough at this time of year to deal with things.

Roz, I'm sorry to hear about the sadness you are experiencing at work. We do what we can for others. It's such a tough money time, with the cruise and xmas. We have big brothers/big sisters organization that collects clothes and other household items. I always try to make sure I have a bag ready for them when they call. It's a small thing but I hope it helps somebody. The need for help is just overwhelming. So many people losing their jobs and homes. John and I are so so lucky we both have jobs and a place to live.

Anyways....... I can't wait to get outta here!! Wooooooohooooooooooooo! I am so ready for this cruise! Today is Johns last day til the 3rd and then he only has the 3, 4, 5 of Jan to work. I still have a million things to do. But I've got it under control... sorta. I gave John a list of 3 things to do. And he called me last night and said "Maybe we can work on these things this week" WE??? 3 things he has to do for this whole trip and he needs help!!! :confused: I just might have to kill him! :eek: This is why I get stressed out...MEN!!! Of course my son, 26yrs old is the same way. Who will bring me his clothes last minute and tell me they need to be washed. :eek: Maybe I'll kill them both and take you lovely ladies with me instead. ;)

As I look out the window, I see snow coming down and it looks beautiful. My heart goes out to everyone in the west who is suffering with flooding rains. How awful. Hope all my friends are healthy and safe. Love you all!


Cindy

[pmfan]

I will be cruising with my daughter and her service dog the beginning of February. I am desperately in need of some help. Our ports are (in order) Labadee, Haiti; Samana, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Tortola, B.V.I.; then back to U.S. Labadee, Haiti is a Royal Caribbean private island stop.

I have been reading and researching and getting more confused by the minute. Can anyone help me with what I need for these ports?

I know I will need an international health certificate, a current rabies certificate, her graduation certificate along with her photo ID and license, but what else? Is there any special permits I will be needing for any of these ports? Any special tests/labs done? Help!

I am just at such a loss, any and all help is much appreciated. :confused:

[DisneyKidsDad]

I will be cruising with my daughter and her service dog the beginning of February. I am desperately in need of some help. Our ports are (in order) Labadee, Haiti; Samana, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Tortola, B.V.I.; then back to U.S. Labadee, Haiti is a Royal Caribbean private island stop.

I have been reading and researching and getting more confused by the minute. Can anyone help me with what I need for these ports?

I know I will need an international health certificate, a current rabies certificate, her graduation certificate along with her photo ID and license, but what else? Is there any special permits I will be needing for any of these ports? Any special tests/labs done? Help!

I am just at such a loss, any and all help is much appreciated. :confused:

I know for Tortola, you will need a Rabies Titer Test. I'm not sure you will have enough time to get that done. You better go talk to your vet now. Also, when you dock in Tortola, a vet will come on board to check your paperwork and hold their hand out for $20.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Ok Girls enough of this talk!!! :mad: It's hard enough at this time of year to deal with things.

Roz, I'm sorry to hear about the sadness you are experiencing at work. We do what we can for others. It's such a tough money time, with the cruise and xmas. We have big brothers/big sisters organization that collects clothes and other household items. I always try to make sure I have a bag ready for them when they call. It's a small thing but I hope it helps somebody. The need for help is just overwhelming. So many people losing their jobs and homes. John and I are so so lucky we both have jobs and a place to live.

Anyways....... I can't wait to get outta here!! Wooooooohooooooooooooo! I am so ready for this cruise! Today is Johns last day til the 3rd and then he only has the 3, 4, 5 of Jan to work. I still have a million things to do. But I've got it under control... sorta. I gave John a list of 3 things to do. And he called me last night and said "Maybe we can work on these things this week" WE??? 3 things he has to do for this whole trip and he needs help!!! :confused: I just might have to kill him! :eek: This is why I get stressed out...MEN!!! Of course my son, 26yrs old is the same way. Who will bring me his clothes last minute and tell me they need to be washed. :eek: Maybe I'll kill them both and take you lovely ladies with me instead. ;)

As I look out the window, I see snow coming down and it looks beautiful. My heart goes out to everyone in the west who is suffering with flooding rains. How awful. Hope all my friends are healthy and safe. Love you all!


Cindy

A tree fell on our house in Ojai and we had to go up and check things out. Thank goodness it only clipped a corner of the living room and didn't go through the roof. The house is on top of the hill, overlooking a stream that is so full it's looking more like a raging river. Thank goodness the house is on high ground. So much mud and debri everywhere. We're near Lake Casitas and I've never seen it so full. I don't think they'll call this a "drought" year!

Some repair will need to be done but this wonderful, old house will be okay. We got very lucky. So, I'm still writing from Morey's computer. I didn't go into work.

Valentine: There are lots of Organizations out there that you can contact; "Sunshine" can tell you more about them. CCI does not train dogs to "alert" to medical problems. Although you could call them and they may be able to direct you to Orgs. that can help you [1-800-572-BARK]. I want to wish you the best of luck and I hope that Valentine will also go into retirement feeling well and being happy. Maybe she and Brenda can meet one day and muse over their hardwork that they did so well. This is probably one of the toughest decisions that I've ever had to make.

Cindy: I'm getting so excited for your upcoming cruise. I love this part of it....the planning, packing and all that goes with the excitement of getting on that ship. "Men, can't live with them, can't live with them".....isn't that how it goes?

By the time you hit that glorious cruise ship all the stress will be behind you and you can put that "foo-foo" drink in your hands, lay in that lounge chair and just veg. One day, I hope that we can do this together. I'd love to be with you.

pmfan: You will need a rabies Titer and I believe it has to be done within 30 days prior to travel. Don't stress this. Even if your "ducks are not all in a row" for one individual island the worst that will happen is they will not allow the dog off the ship and, you can leave him/her in the cabin or behind with someone. The Rabies Cert. and Health Exam. are most important. Ask your Vet to give you a Health Cert. stating that your dog is in good health to travel and ask him/her to sign it. Make at least two copies of all your dogs paperwork so that you can give one to the folks upon boarding the vessel and have another for anyone else who asks for it. Keep the orignials with you. Giving them a copy will save so much time at registration.

No one will take your dog away from you [they don't want the responsibility]. Someone will stay behind with him/her and just enjoy all that your wonderful cruise ship has to offer.

[B]Important Cruise Musts:
1. Make sure that your TA or you check with the Special Needs Service desk of your cruiseline to set-up the "potty box". Either on your veranda or in an area close to your cabin. And, make sure that the area is NOT behind a door that could be locked. ***I prefer Brenda's box be put in a stairwell near our cabin. The door is VERY heavy and could not be handled by someone in a wheelchair. I handle it with a lot of muscle. I like this best because it's out of the weather and away from the public***.
2. Practice with your dog to relieve itself into a 4x4 box with ease. No stress!
3. Call the Special Needs Dept. and remind them one week before you cruise about the box being filled with mulch, wood shavings or turf.
4. Keep the dogs paperwork with your Passport. So, if it's asked for you know exactly where it is.

Remember: Your Service/Working Dog has as much right to be on this cruise as anyone else. Be proud, walk/wheel with pride and use your good, assertive energy. YOU AND YOUR DOG REPRESENT ALL OF US!!!!

Most importantly have a wonderful, exciting and relaxing cruise.

[sunshine426]

First of all can I just say that I LOVE the holidays...even when I have to work on those special days. This year I am off for several days, my daughters will be home soon and Cooler will come homefor 5 days to hang out and enjoy some family time. I know that many people still need us, and I just do what I can...doesn't stop me from celebrating family time. This year our house will have multiple family members as well as 4 visiting cats and one guest dog.

Two days ago I brought two 5 week old pups home for the night. Rich and I sat with our feet up, each holding a puppy and just grinning. Then I took each pup one at a time to local stores for a quick outing. No puppy feet hit the floor and not pats from people... this time.

Valentine. Response dogs are so special and I don't know where you start. Canine Assistants trains general service and seizure response dogs. Visit their web page at www.canineassistants.org (http://www.canineassistants.org) and see if they might meet your needs.

Everyone else happy holidays, happy family time, and Happy Cruising...

[Rolls Royce Lover]

First of all can I just say that I LOVE the holidays...even when I have to work on those special days. This year I am off for several days, my daughters will be home soon and Cooler will come homefor 5 days to hang out and enjoy some family time. I know that many people still need us, and I just do what I can...doesn't stop me from celebrating family time. This year our house will have multiple family members as well as 4 visiting cats and one guest dog.

Two days ago I brought two 5 week old pups home for the night. Rich and I sat with our feet up, each holding a puppy and just grinning. Then I took each pup one at a time to local stores for a quick outing. No puppy feet hit the floor and not pats from people... this time.

Valentine. Response dogs are so special and I don't know where you start. Canine Assistants trains general service and seizure response dogs. Visit their web page at www.canineassistants.org (http://www.canineassistants.org) and see if they might meet your needs.

Everyone else happy holidays, happy family time, and Happy Cruising...



AWWWWW! Nothing like a puppy to bring that smile up from the bottom of our feet to the front of our faces. They can fill our souls.

Thank you for sharing your stories and your family with all of us.......I am forever grateful for what you do and I wish you good health and happiness in the coming year!!!!!

[dlbutler5]

Thanks everyone for the kind words. I am begining to see about the same prolems with Valentine. Wants to lay down in a store or in a wait line.We were tole when we got her not to let her jump so we have doggie steps everywhere she wants to be. The sofa the bed and we even travel with a set on cruises. I'm finding now that she will go up one or two steps and then stand and wait for me to come and help. (no she isn't spoiled or anything) Just after the holidays I'm going to talk her to the vet and have a talk with him I definately thind she needs some pain meds for her legs. She doesn't cry out with it but she doesn't want to climb and loves to have me rub them for her. I'm so sentimental about Valentine's feelings that I'm afraid that she will be jealous of a new dog. I wouldn't have any idea where to go for a new dog. Valentine was sent to me a a very dark time in my life as a pet and straight away started alerting and rarely got it wrong so we took a good thing and ran with it. Now a really sentimental thought... I dont want a new dog I just want her. Selfish! I wonder how many of us feel the same way about our first dog? She has saved me so many times and she even tells David when his sugar is out of wack,

I just lover her!!!!!

Merry Christmas
Happy Holidays &
Hugs and Kisses
From Barbara, David, and Valentine

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:
Roz: You are the best mom and mom's just know what is right. Ms. Brenny will be a better pup by staying home with dad and getting that extra rest. She will be so happy to see mom at the end of the day, she will show her delight. She will be the best big sister and teacher for a little sibling. Be at peace with yourself.

Ms. Valentine's mom: Same goes for you. You have angel's at your sides, that will always be your angels!


You're the sweetest. I love your "pep" talks. And, I must say, I need them!!!! ;)

[wizard-of-roz]

Thanks everyone for the kind words. I am begining to see about the same prolems with Valentine. Wants to lay down in a store or in a wait line.We were tole when we got her not to let her jump so we have doggie steps everywhere she wants to be. The sofa the bed and we even travel with a set on cruises. I'm finding now that she will go up one or two steps and then stand and wait for me to come and help. (no she isn't spoiled or anything) Just after the holidays I'm going to talk her to the vet and have a talk with him I definately thind she needs some pain meds for her legs. She doesn't cry out with it but she doesn't want to climb and loves to have me rub them for her. I'm so sentimental about Valentine's feelings that I'm afraid that she will be jealous of a new dog. I wouldn't have any idea where to go for a new dog. Valentine was sent to me a a very dark time in my life as a pet and straight away started alerting and rarely got it wrong so we took a good thing and ran with it. Now a really sentimental thought... I dont want a new dog I just want her. Selfish! I wonder how many of us feel the same way about our first dog? She has saved me so many times and she even tells David when his sugar is out of wack,

I just lover her!!!!!

Merry Christmas
Happy Holidays &
Hugs and Kisses
From Barbara, David, and Valentine

Your love for her is only mirrored by so many of us who love our dogs just as much.

I find myself watching Brenda when she sleeps to make sure that she's breathing.......and, then I go over and lay my head on her tummy.....I love this dog with my whole being. I totally understand and respect your love for Valentine.

Please take Sunshine's advise or simply call CCI and ask for an Org. that has "alert" dogs that you can begin with, while you still have Valentine to love.

Whatever your decision is I understand what you're going through and please know that you have lots of friends here to support you.

[pmfan]

I know for Tortola, you will need a Rabies Titer Test. I'm not sure you will have enough time to get that done. You better go talk to your vet now. Also, when you dock in Tortola, a vet will come on board to check your paperwork and hold their hand out for $20.

Really...they ask for twenty? Thanks for the info, I'll be sure and have cash on me. So far I've never had to pay at any port.

[/COLOR]

pmfan: You will need a rabies Titer and I believe it has to be done within 30 days prior to travel. Don't stress this. Even if your "ducks are not all in a row" for one individual island the worst that will happen is they will not allow the dog off the ship and, you can leave him/her in the cabin or behind with someone. The Rabies Cert. and Health Exam. are most important. Ask your Vet to give you a Health Cert. stating that your dog is in good health to travel and ask him/her to sign it. Make at least two copies of all your dogs paperwork so that you can give one to the folks upon boarding the vessel and have another for anyone else who asks for it. Keep the orignials with you. Giving them a copy will save so much time at registration.

No one will take your dog away from you [they don't want the responsibility]. Someone will stay behind with him/her and just enjoy all that your wonderful cruise ship has to offer.

[B]Important Cruise Musts:
1. Make sure that your TA or you check with the Special Needs Service desk of your cruiseline to set-up the "potty box". Either on your veranda or in an area close to your cabin. And, make sure that the area is NOT behind a door that could be locked. ***I prefer Brenda's box be put in a stairwell near our cabin. The door is VERY heavy and could not be handled by someone in a wheelchair. I handle it with a lot of muscle. I like this best because it's out of the weather and away from the public***.
2. Practice with your dog to relieve itself into a 4x4 box with ease. No stress!
3. Call the Special Needs Dept. and remind them one week before you cruise about the box being filled with mulch, wood shavings or turf.
4. Keep the dogs paperwork with your Passport. So, if it's asked for you know exactly where it is.

Remember: Your Service/Working Dog has as much right to be on this cruise as anyone else. Be proud, walk/wheel with pride and use your good, assertive energy. YOU AND YOUR DOG REPRESENT ALL OF US!!!!

Most importantly have a wonderful, exciting and relaxing cruise.


Thanks for all the info and tips. I didn't realize that if you weren't "set" for each port that it only meant that you couldn't get off at that particular port. I thought you had to have everything in order or each port before the cruise line would allow the service animal onboard. Which ports do I need a rabies titer for? We may have to forget those ports as we are 40 days from our vacation.

[Quampapetet]

The school she went to is out of business and I have no idea how to get another dog,

What kind of service dog do you need? (What tasks do you need the dog to be trained to do?) The place your next dog comes from depends on that.

[Quampapetet]

I gave John a list of 3 things to do. And he called me last night and said "Maybe we can work on these things this week" WE??? 3 things he has to do for this whole trip and he needs help!!! :confused: I just might have to kill him! :eek: This is why I get stressed out...MEN!!! Of course my son, 26yrs old is the same way. Who will bring me his clothes last minute and tell me they need to be washed. :eek: Maybe I'll kill them both and take you lovely ladies with me instead. ;)

Sounds like you need some good ol' fashioned CHOCOLATE!!!!!!!! :D

Remember, "desserts" is "stressed" reversed! :D

[Quampapetet]

I will be cruising with my daughter and her service dog the beginning of February. I am desperately in need of some help. Our ports are (in order) Labadee, Haiti; Samana, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Tortola, B.V.I.; then back to U.S. Labadee, Haiti is a Royal Caribbean private island stop.

I have been reading and researching and getting more confused by the minute. Can anyone help me with what I need for these ports?

For Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten you just need the health certificate and rabies certificate, so you should be able to get off at those ports (assuming the rabies vaccine is not older than a year for St. Maarten). The British Virgin Islands require a rabies titer and quarantine according to what I found quickly: http://www.pettravel.com/immigration/BritishVirginIslands.cfm. It doesn't say if there is a required six-month wait after the rabies titer blood is drawn or not like is usual for British countries. This is what I found for Dominican Republic (you will want to do a Google search for info., as well): http://www.pettravel.com/immigration/DominicanRepublic.cfm . The site doesn't list Haiti and, since it is a private area you're going to, you should ask Royal Caribbean if they know what you'll need.


I know I will need an international health certificate, a current rabies certificate, her graduation certificate along with her photo ID and license, but what else? Is there any special permits I will be needing for any of these ports? Any special tests/labs done? Help!

I am just at such a loss, any and all help is much appreciated. :confused:

You don't have to have certification/graduation certificate or a photo ID or a license to get into any of these countries. You can bring them, if you want, but they aren't needed. What they need is the veterinary/health info./proof/certificates.

You don't have time to do required tests; sometimes international travel with a dog (service or pet) takes seven or more months planning. But, you will be able to get off at some of the ports, so that's a good thing!

[Quampapetet]

I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas! I likely won't be back on here 'til after Christmas, so I'll say it now. :)

[rangeley]

Have a great xmas Quam!!!

And of course everyone else have a great Holiday too!!!:D

Cindy

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Quam: Have an excellent Christmas.

I guess like Cindy, I should wish the rest of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, now too, never know what might come up!

Roz: You guys keep me grounded. I get whiney and then I step back and see how good I really have it. Then I shake my head and clear the cobwebs and move along!

Cindy: Men are just men! I want to know why they can lay trash on the counter, RIGHT ABOVE the trash can? Even the 7 year old has started. He told me he wants to marry me and then we are going to get 5 butlers! I am all for the butlers, not so much on getting married again! Gotta love em. Kinda glad our furbabies are girls, but I am rethinking that one on Jezzy Lou, she is a little too high maintenance for me. Especially at 4:30 am this morning and needing to go out. It was freezing out there. Of course she does get her business done and back, quickly!

Everyone have a nice Christmas Eve. Stay warm, and enjoy.

[sunshine426]

Cooler joins me in wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Days! She is enjoying being a "house dog" today. Keeping me company in the kitchen, a little last minute grocery shopping. We think it might not be too early for some egg nog and milk bones...

[S.S. Cruisers]

Sunshine: Jezzy Lou says it is never too early for milkbones. She's not sure about the eggnog! Give Cooler some extra hugs and scratches since today is a "house day".

[sunshine426]

The vest is off and she is getting tummy rubs and scratches and kisses and all sorts of loving. Off to mass later today, so the vest will be one and "church" behavior expected.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

I'm taking 20 minutes of "kitchen time" to write. Quam, it sounds like you're feeling better, I'm glad. Have a wonderful holiday.

While cruising with your Service Dog, remember that staying onboard the ship with your dog, while docked at various ports, can be a lot of fun for both of you. You'll find lots of places to exercise your dog because the ship will be virtually empty. You can walk the Promenade in ease, with no one to stop you to ask many, many questions and pleading to "pat" your dog. It's great private time in the pools, theatre's, buffet, elevators and a myriad of other places on the ship. I love this time.

I want to share a story about a gal in my office who has a 19 year old, minature poodle. The dog is now blind [that just happened this year] and showing some signs of demensia [she stands in the corner of a room and whines because she's confused]. This little dog still eats like a horse but has to wear a diaper because she's incontinent. She loves to lay on my friends lap to be stroked and loved. The Vet said that this little being has the heart of a 5 year old and she's in no pain but he said that she's really not living any sort of quality life. My friend has made the decision to let her "go" this weekend. A truly tough decision, to be sure! Amazingly long life.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Hope everyone had a nice day yesterday.

Roz: Thoughts and prayers to your friend. She knows what is right for the little one. And remember, no more pain, only good days with lots of sunshine.

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:
Hope everyone had a nice day yesterday.

Roz: Thoughts and prayers to your friend. She knows what is right for the little one. And remember, no more pain, only good days with lots of sunshine.


She let her go on Friday. She's still very sad today. This little dog was raised with her daughter and her daughter is now married with a baby. She didn't tell her she was doing it and her daughter is very upset that she wasn't there. Something she's sorry about today. But, it would have meant that her daughter would have to drive up from San Diego and with the holiday traffic and all, I think she made the right decision. Her daughter never will.

She took the dogs favorite treats with her in the car and while waiting in the waiting room for the Vet Tech she allowed her little friend to eat as much as she wanted. And, amazingly enough, this little dog ate like a horse.

She said it went very quickly and easily [if it's ever easy.] She just wanted to talk about her to all of us this morning and, we all listened.

I am definitely patting my girl a lot more today.

[sunshine426]

Your post takes me back to the decision we made for our beloved Tigger. We too listened to our hearts and made the decision to let her go with grace. She had begun falling, sometimes her legs would just slide out from under her (especially after the kitchen floor was waxed). Our fear was that she would fall and break sometihing while we were at work. Hated to think of her suffering for hours. The occasional potty accidents on the house were no problems for us, the moments when she would be sitting staring at the wall not realizing she wasn't facing forward caused some laughter and always extra hugs and kisses for her. Her last morning was filled with hugs from the children and kisses from all. After her final visit to see "Dr Andy" we brought here home and buried her in the back yard. For several weeks, neighborhood children would come lay weeds and dandelions and notes on her grave...We were charmed and saddened and then moved on.

[wizard-of-roz]

Your post takes me back to the decision we made for our beloved Tigger. We too listened to our hearts and made the decision to let her go with grace. She had begun falling, sometimes her legs would just slide out from under her (especially after the kitchen floor was waxed). Our fear was that she would fall and break sometihing while we were at work. Hated to think of her suffering for hours. The occasional potty accidents on the house were no problems for us, the moments when she would be sitting staring at the wall not realizing she wasn't facing forward caused some laughter and always extra hugs and kisses for her. Her last morning was filled with hugs from the children and kisses from all. After her final visit to see "Dr Andy" we brought here home and buried her in the back yard. For several weeks, neighborhood children would come lay weeds and dandelions and notes on her grave...We were charmed and saddened and then moved on.



I know we must!

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday.....getting back to work can be such a drag.

We are in the midst of selling our building to a Private High School. It's very involved and will take a while before it happens but it's pretty scary to think that I won't be able to exercise my Service Dog in the back, fenced yard. This center has been wonderful to bring a Service Dog to. I'll actually have to put a collar and leash on her and walk her in a business district......hunting and pecking for "something" to potty on. Boy have we been spoiled.

We'll be purchasing a large, high-rise type building.....you know "the glass ceiling" kind of building. The kind where you can't get to your office unless you take an elevator......"yuck!" Brenda and I have loved being in the center with all the amenities it had to offer [for her!]

Sunshine: I hope your rollicking pup hasn't knocked all your decorations down.

Cindy: I know you're counting down the days for your cruise. Yippeeeee!!! Make sure Wexy has his formal wear!!!!

Nancy: Stay warm.

To ALL of you - Happy, Healthy and Pawlight New Near!

[sunshine426]

Cooler had a great Christmas Experience at the house. Got to see what it is like when distraction is around, lot's of people, smells, food on the counter (someone managed to take out a plate of rum cake...) and a Christmas Tree. After a few "leave-it's" with the tree ornaments, she really didn't try to undecorate it. She was very good and really managed well. She had more day time crate time then usual, but that is also a very good thing for these dogs to understand. A few woofs and she settled down in the crate until I had settled down and could watch her. Thank goodness this dog sleeps well in the crate at night. I took her back yesterday, but we are thinking of getting her again for New Years...

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Cooler had a great Christmas Experience at the house. Got to see what it is like when distraction is around, lot's of people, smells, food on the counter (someone managed to take out a plate of rum cake...) and a Christmas Tree. After a few "leave-it's" with the tree ornaments, she really didn't try to undecorate it. She was very good and really managed well. She had more day time crate time then usual, but that is also a very good thing for these dogs to understand. A few woofs and she settled down in the crate until I had settled down and could watch her. Thank goodness this dog sleeps well in the crate at night. I took her back yesterday, but we are thinking of getting her again for New Years...

Nothing like "MaMa Sunshine's" house for the holiday's!!!!!:p

[rangeley]

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. I hurried back from Ct to beat the blizzard. I knew John would not be able to go outside at all. And as you've all heard, we are buried! Yesterday was so cold and windy, I couldn't even go out and clean off our cars. Just taking Wex out was horrible. I'm glad we got this storm out of the way, cuz there will NOT be one next week! Wex has his vet tomorrow for the health cert. I am already stressed out, but that is normal. I will not relax til we are on the ship. I don't worry about packing cuz I have a master list which makes it a breeze. But I do have to pack this weekend cuz I have to go back to CT next week to get my son and try to make sure he has everything he needs. Even though he is 26, he's still young and a man so that makes him helpless. :eek: I will be spending the day trying to get our cars out of the snow and I don't know how much my bad back will take. I don't need my car til next tuesday so maybe I will just do the van today.

Roz, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your friends dog. My prayers are with her. I know how horrible it is.

[rangeley]

Roz, I almost forgot to mention last night Wex was sniffing his tux (I think he can smell his puppy raisers on it since she made it) I took it out and he wanted to try it on. Then he sits in front of me and the end of his tail wags. He just loves to get dressed up in anything. Here's a pic I'm sure I posted before but it's just to cute!!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Roz: We haven't been that bad. I have been going out with a thermal shirt under a t-shirt over it and have been fine. That's during the day, of course. This morning the computer said 17F on one site and 29F on another? :confused: So I guess we should average that out!

Cindy: That's our handsome man! He is just too cute. I have a girl friend that has two wiener dogs. (Couldn't spell the other!) Anyway, one loves to get her sweater or coat on, she will run to the bin and get out the one she wants and bring it to her to put on. The other one is just not too fond of having to get dressed, at all, I guess she likes being nekkid!

I am so glad we don't have to be digging any vehicles out of snow. That is not why we moved here! :o

Roz: You know, I don't like change, but try and be positive about it. I know what you mean about being spoiled and then boom, it changes. I hope you and Ms. Brenny end up with some nice outdoor space. Her would love that, you too!

Hope everyone has a nice week.

[wizard-of-roz]

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. I hurried back from Ct to beat the blizzard. I knew John would not be able to go outside at all. And as you've all heard, we are buried! Yesterday was so cold and windy, I couldn't even go out and clean off our cars. Just taking Wex out was horrible. I'm glad we got this storm out of the way, cuz there will NOT be one next week! Wex has his vet tomorrow for the health cert. I am already stressed out, but that is normal. I will not relax til we are on the ship. I don't worry about packing cuz I have a master list which makes it a breeze. But I do have to pack this weekend cuz I have to go back to CT next week to get my son and try to make sure he has everything he needs. Even though he is 26, he's still young and a man so that makes him helpless. :eek: I will be spending the day trying to get our cars out of the snow and I don't know how much my bad back will take. I don't need my car til next tuesday so maybe I will just do the van today.

Roz, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your friends dog. My prayers are with her. I know how horrible it is.

Yikes! The news is unbelieveable about your snow and the blizzards and the roads and on and on! I bet you can't wait to be onboard that ship and in some balmy weather.

I know how stressful the week before can be but add to it the conditions that you guys are experiencing in terms of weather and "forget-about-it"! It sure doesn't help! Knowing you, you'll get through it no matter what! I hope your back hangs-tough.......be careful, it won't be fun to be suffering while you're trying to relax!

Once you've got your "men" in a row.......you'll feel better about the journey. And, of course the weather will help too!

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz, I almost forgot to mention last night Wex was sniffing his tux (I think he can smell his puppy raisers on it since she made it) I took it out and he wanted to try it on. Then he sits in front of me and the end of his tail wags. He just loves to get dressed up in anything. Here's a pic I'm sure I posted before but it's just to cute!!

That picture of him in his tux just cracks me up! He's such a "pretty boy!" And, he knows it!!!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Cooler had a great Christmas Experience at the house. Got to see what it is like when distraction is around, lot's of people, smells, food on the counter (someone managed to take out a plate of rum cake...) and a Christmas Tree. After a few "leave-it's" with the tree ornaments, she really didn't try to undecorate it. She was very good and really managed well. She had more day time crate time then usual, but that is also a very good thing for these dogs to understand. A few woofs and she settled down in the crate until I had settled down and could watch her. Thank goodness this dog sleeps well in the crate at night. I took her back yesterday, but we are thinking of getting her again for New Years...

Lucky girl! You're so lucky she loves the crate at night. We could not get Brenny to sleep in her crate at night. I think she had had enough "crate time" at CCI, during training. And, once she had settled in her "forever" home she adopted the couch [with my blessing!]

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:
Roz: We haven't been that bad. I have been going out with a thermal shirt under a t-shirt over it and have been fine. That's during the day, of course. This morning the computer said 17F on one site and 29F on another? :confused: So I guess we should average that out!

Cindy: That's our handsome man! He is just too cute. I have a girl friend that has two wiener dogs. (Couldn't spell the other!) Anyway, one loves to get her sweater or coat on, she will run to the bin and get out the one she wants and bring it to her to put on. The other one is just not too fond of having to get dressed, at all, I guess she likes being nekkid!

I am so glad we don't have to be digging any vehicles out of snow. That is not why we moved here! :o

Roz: You know, I don't like change, but try and be positive about it. I know what you mean about being spoiled and then boom, it changes. I hope you and Ms. Brenny end up with some nice outdoor space. Her would love that, you too!

Hope everyone has a nice week.



Thanks, Nancy. I will be positive and as long as Brenny is by my side we'll be just fine.

[sunshine426]

Lucky girl! You're so lucky she loves the crate at night. We could not get Brenny to sleep in her crate at night. I think she had had enough "crate time" at CCI, during training. And, once she had settled in her "forever" home she adopted the couch [with my blessing!]


You all know how much I loved my Crackers, but that boy really never took to his crate, and nights were never restful when I had him. Cooler, I have worked on diligently from 10 weeks making the crate a safe place. I tried all my tricks with Crackers, and not much worked. Funny, he tolerated the crate just fine at Canine Assistants, but never well with me. Cooler hates Crate time at CA. She barks and woofs and barks. Eventually she settles down, but not easily. And yet at this house, she is quiets down very quickly. Hmmmmmm I don't know what to make of it.

[sunshine426]

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. I hurried back from Ct to beat the blizzard. I knew John would not be able to go outside at all. And as you've all heard, we are buried! Yesterday was so cold and windy, I couldn't even go out and clean off our cars. Just taking Wex out was horrible. I'm glad we got this storm out of the way, cuz there will NOT be one next week! Wex has his vet tomorrow for the health cert. I am already stressed out, but that is normal. I will not relax til we are on the ship. I don't worry about packing cuz I have a master list which makes it a breeze. But I do have to pack this weekend cuz I have to go back to CT next week to get my son and try to make sure he has everything he needs. Even though he is 26, he's still young and a man so that makes him helpless. :eek: I will be spending the day trying to get our cars out of the snow and I don't know how much my bad back will take. I don't need my car til next tuesday so maybe I will just do the van today.

Roz, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your friends dog. My prayers are with her. I know how horrible it is.


Cindy, Wow, I am so sorry, all this aggravation right before a trip. Yikes. I'd like to say just give your son a list and tell him to do it himself, but Mr Sunshine also needs a fair bit of assistance packing himself for the cruise, and I can never understand it. Now, my girls, can pack all their stuff and enough shoes for the entire crew in one suitcase each and be ready in 3o minutes of less........

[wizard-of-roz]

Cindy, Wow, I am so sorry, all this aggravation right before a trip. Yikes. I'd like to say just give your son a list and tell him to do it himself, but Mr Sunshine also needs a fair bit of assistance packing himself for the cruise, and I can never understand it. Now, my girls, can pack all their stuff and enough shoes for the entire crew in one suitcase each and be ready in 3o minutes of less........

Now, this is interesting...Morey will not let me touch his suitcase. I want to but he's so stubborn about it. He has a wonderful sense of color, not so much on styles. I can buy him new shirts [but if they're of polyester material he won't wear them.] I'm a very careful shopper. He can have his suitcases packed in one hour. He's a great traveler [at least, he used to be!]

Who am I kidding.....Morey does what Morey wants and always has and always will. I am TOTALLY subserviant to his whims. Probably why I still work. Definitely gives me my own independence. And, neither of us would have it any other way!

[rangeley]

I do all the packing!! Then he sits there and asks me "did you get this and this and this" UGH! I just yes him to death and it all works out.;)

[wizard-of-roz]

I do all the packing!! Then he sits there and asks me "did you get this and this and this" UGH! I just yes him to death and it all works out.;)

;) :p :p ;) :mad:

[rangeley]

That picture of him in his tux just cracks me up! He's such a "pretty boy!" And, he knows it!!!!!!


You are right!! We just had him out in the snow and it's so deep that his long legs were flailing around as he stuck his head in the snow and ate it.
What a goober. It was so funny.

[rangeley]

You all know how much I loved my Crackers, but that boy really never took to his crate, and nights were never restful when I had him. Cooler, I have worked on diligently from 10 weeks making the crate a safe place. I tried all my tricks with Crackers, and not much worked. Funny, he tolerated the crate just fine at Canine Assistants, but never well with me. Cooler hates Crate time at CA. She barks and woofs and barks. Eventually she settles down, but not easily. And yet at this house, she is quiets down very quickly. Hmmmmmm I don't know what to make of it.


It's funny how some dogs just love the crate and others hate it. The only time we had Wex crated was at CCI in our room. They told us to crate them and go out for a while. He did NOT like it. We had trouble getting him in it. One of the other people said that their dog stood up in the crate all night. Of course everything was new for them and us. We have no room for a crate in our apt and John let him sleep on the bed the first night, so I don't think he would go back to a crate after a bed! He's no dummy. He also has a big fluffy bed in our living room. I wonder what percentage of people use crates? Anyone have any idea?

[wizard-of-roz]

It's funny how some dogs just love the crate and others hate it. The only time we had Wex crated was at CCI in our room. They told us to crate them and go out for a while. He did NOT like it. We had trouble getting him in it. One of the other people said that their dog stood up in the crate all night. Of course everything was new for them and us. We have no room for a crate in our apt and John let him sleep on the bed the first night, so I don't think he would go back to a crate after a bed! He's no dummy. He also has a big fluffy bed in our living room. I wonder what percentage of people use crates? Anyone have any idea?

Brenda loves her crate, at work. I took the door off so she can come and go when she pleases and uses it when she's not outside or working with me. She's a wonderful listener and "rule follower". She knows she's NEVER to leave my office [cubicle] area unless I give her permission. My area is extra big, allowing for; her, me, my computer corner unit, printer, her crate, several file drawers and a credenza.

The second I get into the office, I give her a Virbac Chew, she drinks some water and then immediately goes into her crate. She walks in, turns around and lays with her head on the door ledge or crawls into a "pill-bug" ball at the back of the crate and snores away. It's perfect for me because it gives me time to catch-up on my morning work, emails and phone messages.

She's been doing this for quite some time. We tried another crate at home, I put in our bedroom and also left the door off. She didn't use it. Just like Wexy - once I gave her the couch.....the crate was a "no deal"! I donated the crate back to CCI.

[wizard-of-roz]

I also think that the crate became a "safe" place for Brenda. I have a very busy office environment; with people coming and going all the time. My cubicle is right outside the Vice President's office and directly across from the Executive Director's office. Always something going on!!!!!

Brenda has learned that I'm jumping up and down, in and out all the time and from day one realized that it would be easier and safer for her if she just got out of my way when she wasn't working. She's gotten used to the "plan", she's been here for over 8 years.

I'm not as small or as young as most of the other folks in my office......but, I am a "human dynamo!" I pride myself on my energy level.....However, that said......when I die, I die hard.

When I finally sit down........there isn't a forklift around that could move me off my chair or out of my bed when I say, "I've had enough!" :p But, it takes an awful lot to get me there. And, I'm a fast paced walker. My poor Brenny.......she's almost 11 years old and I'm seeing that my walking and running around are finally getting to her!!!!!! They got to Morey years ago!!!! :(

[Valentine's Mom]

We had 14 inches of snow here in Virginia Beach! It's funny David and I are both from Ohio where snow is just an inconvience but something you just deal with. Here in VA it's a catastrophy (sp) I mean everything shuts down at the hint of snow. Sometimes things will close the night before is suppose to snow. Then it never comes.:p Everything shuts down... the malls, markets, schools, government buildings, even the US Navy was closed. The funniest part is that they put a combination of sand and salt and spread it on the snow. They never plow the roads first so of course the snow never melts. I think they said that this area owns a total of 5 plows for the entire area. Really not prepared.

I thought about puttling Valentine out in the snow but was afraid I would lose her. It would be over her head. LOL She spent the day laying up on the back of the couch watching it snow and napping. She doesn't even like to walk in wet grass. LOL

[wizard-of-roz]

You are right!! We just had him out in the snow and it's so deep that his long legs were flailing around as he stuck his head in the snow and ate it.
What a goober. It was so funny.

I love these dogs and all their antics. What a goofball!!!!! Brenda is shorter than him.....she'd probably be buried in the stuff! :eek:

Thank you Lord for only giving me the "wet-stuff" in California!

[wizard-of-roz]

We had 14 inches of snow here in Virginia Beach! It's funny David and I are both from Ohio where snow is just an inconvience but something you just deal with. Here in VA it's a catastrophy (sp) I mean everything shuts down at the hint of snow. Sometimes things will close the night before is suppose to snow. Then it never comes.:p Everything shuts down... the malls, markets, schools, government buildings, even the US Navy was closed. The funniest part is that they put a combination of sand and salt and spread it on the snow. They never plow the roads first so of course the snow never melts. I think they said that this area owns a total of 5 plows for the entire area. Really not prepared.

I thought about puttling Valentine out in the snow but was afraid I would lose her. It would be over her head. LOL She spent the day laying up on the back of the couch watching it snow and napping. She doesn't even like to walk in wet grass. LOL

OMG! Poor folks who depend on business everyday to stay alive. And, our poor little Valentine she definitely would be buried up to her nose!!!!!!

[rangeley]

Valentines Mom, I can't believe they do not plow the roads! I always though Virginia got some snow in the winter. We had 18 inches here and Wexlers belly was all snow so poor Valentine would be buried! It's been hard for him to get through the snow. Today there should be some melting.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
My lovie Renie slept in his crate his whole life. He loved it. I took the door off it when he was about 2, never had to put it on again. Some times in the summer when it was really hot he would get out and lay close by it, but on the floor. In the summer I would put an old sheet on his pillow and in the winter he got a nice warm blanket on it.

As for men and boys, alls I can say is wheewww. I have always packed. I think it makes it easier on all of us. Then I know that everything they really need is packed.

Hope everyone has a nice day. Its glummy here, may get some rain.

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:
My lovie Renie slept in his crate his whole life. He loved it. I took the door off it when he was about 2, never had to put it on again. Some times in the summer when it was really hot he would get out and lay close by it, but on the floor. In the summer I would put an old sheet on his pillow and in the winter he got a nice warm blanket on it.

As for men and boys, alls I can say is wheewww. I have always packed. I think it makes it easier on all of us. Then I know that everything they really need is packed.

Hope everyone has a nice day. Its glummy here, may get some rain.



I knew I forgot something about Brenny's work crate. I put a shag rug [you know the ones that look like there's sheep laying there!] So snuggly, so soft [sometimes, I wish I could push her out and crawl in myself!]

She's in there, right now, as I write this.......so happy, so warm so snoring!!!!!!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Roz, no kidding! Trav use to get in it! As a matter of fact, he has crawled into Jezzy Lou's also. It's alot smaller, and he barely fit! But he had fun. Jezzy Lou and Leann Emily's crates both are sitting in my living room. :eek: Oh well, I am over being a designer!

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz, no kidding! Trav use to get in it! As a matter of fact, he has crawled into Jezzy Lou's also. It's alot smaller, and he barely fit! But he had fun. Jezzy Lou and Leann Emily's crates both are sitting in my living room. :eek: Oh well, I am over being a designer!

What do you mean over it!!!!! Sounds like the "Chateau Nancy" to me!

[rangeley]

Took Wex to the vet for his health cert today. We got charged 14.75, big difference to whoever paid 100.00. rabies They just love that dog there , every vet and tech came into the room to give him belly rubs. I've made copies of health cert, vac, dog license, am I missing anything?

Here's a few (not very good) pics of Wex in the snow today.

[talako]

Hello all!
Rocco and I are back from the cruise. Rocco did WONDERFUL for his first time and I look forward to cruising with him again. The crew were terrific to him and so were the passengers. Everyone went out of their way to make him feel comfortable. He was a rock star! :) even the captain wanted to meet him :)

Thanks to everyone for their advice and expertise. Roz you were great in mentioning to have copies made for the check in staff! Having those ready made it a breeze to check in.

Thanks again! I hope everyone had a great Christmas and will have a great 2011.

Frank and Rocco

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hello all!
Rocco and I are back from the cruise. Rocco did WONDERFUL for his first time and I look forward to cruising with him again. The crew were terrific to him and so were the passengers. Everyone went out of their way to make him feel comfortable. He was a rock star! :) even the captain wanted to meet him :)

Thanks to everyone for their advice and expertise. Roz you were great in mentioning to have copies made for the check in staff! Having those ready made it a breeze to check in.

Thanks again! I hope everyone had a great Christmas and will have a great 2011.

Frank and Rocco

Frank, welcome back. Glad everything worked out for you and Rocco. It's always good to hear that another Service Dog hit the cruise ship decks and had a successful cruise.

Can't wait to hear about your next one.

Have a great New Year!!!!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Took Wex to the vet for his health cert today. We got charged 14.75, big difference to whoever paid 100.00. rabies They just love that dog there , every vet and tech came into the room to give him belly rubs. I've made copies of health cert, vac, dog license, am I missing anything?

Here's a few (not very good) pics of Wex in the snow today.

Love the pictures of Wex. Does he go potty easily on the snow? I always wondered what Brenda would do.[/B][/COLOR]

Are you going to make copies of the CCI Cert.? I know Roz uses Brenda's Graduate Cert. It's something that you guys earned and should be proud of. And, it sounds like you have a very fair Vet. He didn't try to gouge you when it came to the charges.

[Quampapetet]

I'm taking 20 minutes of "kitchen time" to write. Quam, it sounds like you're feeling better, I'm glad. Have a wonderful holiday.

Well, my cold is almost completely gone - still a cough every now and again (especially when laying down), but no more having to blow my nose. My sprained wrist is almost completely better (just hurts a bit if I overuse it, like if I'm doing a lot of stuff with it or if I'm out and about a lot 'cause it is my mobility harness hand), but I had some sort of chemical burn allergic reaction thing from my wrist wrap (even though I've worn them many times before) so the skin on the back of my hand right now is all messed up and ugly. It is getting better day by day, though. Then I fell the other day in the airport and skinned my knee and the side of my foot. I've had a rough couple of weeks! :p

My Christmas was great, though! Hope yours was, as well.

[Quampapetet]

Roz, I almost forgot to mention last night Wex was sniffing his tux (I think he can smell his puppy raisers on it since she made it) I took it out and he wanted to try it on. Then he sits in front of me and the end of his tail wags. He just loves to get dressed up in anything. Here's a pic I'm sure I posted before but it's just to cute!!

What a great bandanna!!! Such a great idea! She should sell those - maybe as a fundraiser for the program she works with, even.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
IT'S FINALLY SNOWING!

Quam: Ok, so I will leave your cold out and I now count three "occurances". That should be it. You need to take it easy! I can only hope 2011 gets here quickly. I am glad you didn't re-injure your wrist, when you fell. I would be so embarassed. That's what happenend to me when I injured my back. Hope you are on the mend.

Cindy: No picture of Sexy Wexy is "not so good"! He's such a love. I can just visualize those long legs flying in the snow!

Frank: So glad you and Rocco had a great cruise!

Everyone have a fantastic day.

[rangeley]

Frank, So glad you and your dog did well on the ship. Last year was our first cruise with our new dog and he did awesome. But not knowing what to expect it's very scary.

Morey, Wex will go potty in the snow unless it's up to his belly. Luckily the wind was so bad that it drifted the snow and there were low spots for him to go.
We have never made copies of his grad cert. If Queen Roz says we need it, I will make copies pronto!

Quam, I agree that our puppy raisers should make and sell those tux bandanas. We were so thrilled when they gave us one, since it's perfect for formal nights.

Nancy, Travis must be so happy to finally get some snow. I'm sure he will be out playing in it as soon as he can.

[wizard-of-roz]

[/b][/color]

Well, my cold is almost completely gone - still a cough every now and again (especially when laying down), but no more having to blow my nose. My sprained wrist is almost completely better (just hurts a bit if I overuse it, like if I'm doing a lot of stuff with it or if I'm out and about a lot 'cause it is my mobility harness hand), but I had some sort of chemical burn allergic reaction thing from my wrist wrap (even though I've worn them many times before) so the skin on the back of my hand right now is all messed up and ugly. It is getting better day by day, though. Then I fell the other day in the airport and skinned my knee and the side of my foot. I've had a rough couple of weeks! :p

My Christmas was great, though! Hope yours was, as well.

GEEEEZ, woman, you have a "mobility harness, a Service Dog" to assist you in your mobility and you're falling???? :( Just kidding!!!!

Enough, is enough. Take your time when you're walking; put some aloe on that wrist and knee and have a wonderfully healthy and happy New Year!

[wizard-of-roz]

Hello all!
Rocco and I are back from the cruise. Rocco did WONDERFUL for his first time and I look forward to cruising with him again. The crew were terrific to him and so were the passengers. Everyone went out of their way to make him feel comfortable. He was a rock star! :) even the captain wanted to meet him :)

Thanks to everyone for their advice and expertise. Roz you were great in mentioning to have copies made for the check in staff! Having those ready made it a breeze to check in.

Thanks again! I hope everyone had a great Christmas and will have a great 2011.

Frank and Rocco

Frank, I'm thrilled for you that it was a good cruise and that Rocco was a "rock star!"

Now, you can look forward to another one because you are no longer a novice!!!!!

I hope that you and Rocco have a wonderful New Year!

[wizard-of-roz]

Frank, So glad you and your dog did well on the ship. Last year was our first cruise with our new dog and he did awesome. But not knowing what to expect it's very scary.

Morey, Wex will go potty in the snow unless it's up to his belly. Luckily the wind was so bad that it drifted the snow and there were low spots for him to go.
We have never made copies of his grad cert. If Queen Roz says we need it, I will make copies pronto!

Quam, I agree that our puppy raisers should make and sell those tux bandanas. We were so thrilled when they gave us one, since it's perfect for formal nights.

Nancy, Travis must be so happy to finally get some snow. I'm sure he will be out playing in it as soon as he can.

I only copy the card that CCI gives us with the expiration of Public Access on it.....I think that's what Morey meant. I know it's really necessary but I'm proud of it and I do show it.

[wizard-of-roz]

I only copy the card that CCI gives us with the expiration of Public Access on it.....I think that's what Morey meant. I know it's really (NOT) necessary but I'm proud of it and I do show it.

Once again the fingers are going faster than the brain.

[wizard-of-roz]

Cindy, John and Wexy.......are in the count-down mode for their cruise......love it! This beats the "doc-dance" to death!!!!! ;)

[rangeley]

OMG 6 more days!! I have most of Wexlers things out to be packed but thats about it. John did his ironing yesterday. He's going skiing today so Wex and I will have a peaceful day. I just went to get out Wexlers collaspable bowls and guess what? John took them and one is at school and one at his sisters. UGH!!! It's a miracle I don't kill him before these trips. I'll be back later.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:

Cindy: I am sure they don't even think of the stress they add to our lives! I guess we can say at least you still have 6 days With my luck I wouldn't have checked until late the night before, getting last minute stuff together.

Roz: I have decided snow is no longer my friend, nor is it pretty. It would be if we didn't have to shovel our sidewalks! The snow is up to my knees. My thought is "Just who is going to be out in this weather, walking around, no less that I have to shovel the sidewalks for?" Hubby reminded me it would be the postman! Ok, so then we get the sidewalks all clear, it is still snowing and they are getting covered again? I'm moving!

Hope everyone else has a nice New Year's weekend. Be safe, whatever you decide to do. We stay home.

[rangeley]

Happy New Year to all my wonderful friends! May the coming year bring us all health, happiness and lots of love from our babies! :D

Cindy,John, & Wexler

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
A big ole
HAPPY
NEW
YEAR !!!!
Hold all the furbabies tight and give them huggles from me and Jezzy Lou and Leann Emily.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

OMG 6 more days!! I have most of Wexlers things out to be packed but thats about it. John did his ironing yesterday. He's going skiing today so Wex and I will have a peaceful day. I just went to get out Wexlers collaspable bowls and guess what? John took them and one is at school and one at his sisters. UGH!!! It's a miracle I don't kill him before these trips. I'll be back later.

Oh! No! I know you'll figure it all out and find substitutions for what you need but it would be nice to have some cooperation here......JOHN!!!:(

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Mornin' all:

Cindy: I am sure they don't even think of the stress they add to our lives! I guess we can say at least you still have 6 days With my luck I wouldn't have checked until late the night before, getting last minute stuff together.

Roz: I have decided snow is no longer my friend, nor is it pretty. It would be if we didn't have to shovel our sidewalks! The snow is up to my knees. My thought is "Just who is going to be out in this weather, walking around, no less that I have to shovel the sidewalks for?" Hubby reminded me it would be the postman! Ok, so then we get the sidewalks all clear, it is still snowing and they are getting covered again? I'm moving!

Hope everyone else has a nice New Year's weekend. Be safe, whatever you decide to do. We stay home.

You're not gonna move....because when that beautiful spring and summer come you'll be ever so grateful that you're not in that darn desert!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Happy New Year to all my wonderful friends! May the coming year bring us all health, happiness and lots of love from our babies! :D

Cindy,John, & Wexler

You too Cindy, your family and that amazing Working Dog, Wex. I hope that we all have lots of wonderful, joyous cruises in this coming year, with our "fur partners" and humans.

Much Love, Licks & Good Wishes To Everyone,
Roz, Morey & Brenda

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Mornin' all:
A big ole
HAPPY
NEW
YEAR !!!!
Hold all the furbabies tight and give them huggles from me and Jezzy Lou and Leann Emily.

The very same to you, sweet Nancy!

[sunshine426]

Happy New Year from the sunny south. We had a white christmas this year...and now it is 60ish and damp!! Happy Crusing to Sexy Wexy and his people. No pups at home right now. Just Sandy the house dog and Mr Sunshine. Adventure of Cooler to continue...

[denversees4me]

Hi all
Been a while how is everyone ? Denver and I are doing well - Denver is almost 9 I can not even believe it !!!!
I know I have asked before so forgive me but I am crusing mex riv at the end of the month - I have herd I need health cert and thats it - what I need to know is this
What is everyones experience with the rabies thing - DCL says their paperwork states a 1 YEAR rabies - My shot is a 3 YEAR do I need to re vaccinate ? My vet says the 1 and 3 are the SAME - I just need to know if I should worry about the cert saying 3 year exp date or not ? Roz didnt you just cruise this one ?
Thanks all
Roz love to brenny from denny LOL and Amber and rick are having baby 3 !!!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hi all
Been a while how is everyone ? Denver and I are doing well - Denver is almost 9 I can not even believe it !!!!
I know I have asked before so forgive me but I am crusing mex riv at the end of the month - I have herd I need health cert and thats it - what I need to know is this
What is everyones experience with the rabies thing - DCL says their paperwork states a 1 YEAR rabies - My shot is a 3 YEAR do I need to re vaccinate ? My vet says the 1 and 3 are the SAME - I just need to know if I should worry about the cert saying 3 year exp date or not ? Roz didnt you just cruise this one ?
Thanks all
Roz love to brenny from denny LOL and Amber and rick are having baby 3 !!!

Hey, Cari; Happy New Year to you and our favorite SED, Denver. For all of you.....Amber and Rick (as mentioned by Cari) are a seeing impaired couple who have a little boy, a baby girl and are now expecting their third. Congrats to them. They're a pretty amazing couple. They have two dogs and two little human's.....soon to have a new one. Isn't the power of love remarkable! Rick is a voice on the radio....he's quite a personality and Amber is a little doll! Cari and Denver have assisted them in training their dogs and much more.

Cari, you will need to have proof of Denver's Rabies Vaccine. As long as you are within the guidelines of when the Rabies Vaccine should be given and have a Rabies Vaccine Certification from your Vet, you're all set. Because Brenda is considered a "Senior Dog" there are some vaccines that the Vet would not give her. The Rabies Vaccine is ALWAYS required. Remember to make 3 copies of everything to speed your check-in along. And, to present to Immigration on or off the ship.

You couldn't have booked this cruise onboard the Sapphire this past November, when we were onboard? One day we'll do a cruise together.

Which ship are you on? Have a wonderful cruise.

Now I get to have the "Cruise Jitters" for both you, Denver, Cindy, John and Wexler! :)

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Ms. Roz, my computer says you posted at 2:14 am! What were you doing up at that hour? You should have called, none of us were sleeping anyway. Ho hum, the New Year is not all it is cracked up to be!

Cari: Have fun on the Mouse ship! Will Denver be wearing Mickey ears? He would be oh so cute in them. What am I talking about, he is oh so cute no matter what! Is Greg going too? If not who will he stay with?

Cindy: its getting closer! Hope everything is falling into place for you. Huggles to Sexy Wexy.

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:
Ms. Roz, my computer says you posted at 2:14 am! What were you doing up at that hour? You should have called, none of us were sleeping anyway. Ho hum, the New Year is not all it is cracked up to be!

Cari: Have fun on the Mouse ship! Will Denver be wearing Mickey ears? He would be oh so cute in them. What am I talking about, he is oh so cute no matter what! Is Greg going too? If not who will he stay with?

Cindy: its getting closer! Hope everything is falling into place for you. Huggles to Sexy Wexy.

Actually, it was a bit after midnight.......teeth brushed, hair set, close computer [Oh! No! Can't do that there's something from Cari], must talk to her first and then go to sleep.

Geeeezzz, you're worse than having my mother around!

[S.S. Cruisers]

:D:):p:o

[rangeley]

3 more days! I'm stressed. I just finished cleaning the apt. Of course that needed to be done before we left. This way it will be clean when we come home. Wex had the bath yesterday so he is all set. He is mostly packed, god forbid if I forget any cookies! For John and I, we are NOT packed in any way. I did all the health and beauty stuff yesterday. I've got alot of stuff out but not packed. Tomorrow I will go to CT and wash clothes, take mom to do her shopping, and come back Wednesday with my son. I guess I'll be packing then. John has to decide what he wants to take. Yesterday he said he's only taking 2 polo shirts, for 10 days??? I don't know how he thinks and I'm better off not knowing.:confused: Looks like we might get another snow storm Friday, we are lucky to be leaving Thursday morning. We usually fly down a day early but this year we are going to save the money and fly the day of. It's risky but we have done it before. Since we are paying for my son to go, we will need the extra money for his bar bill.:eek: I think I'll go get all our paperwork together and make sure I have enough copies of everything.

Cindy

[wizard-of-roz]

3 more days! I'm stressed. I just finished cleaning the apt. Of course that needed to be done before we left. This way it will be clean when we come home. Wex had the bath yesterday so he is all set. He is mostly packed, god forbid if I forget any cookies! For John and I, we are NOT packed in any way. I did all the health and beauty stuff yesterday. I've got alot of stuff out but not packed. Tomorrow I will go to CT and wash clothes, take mom to do her shopping, and come back Wednesday with my son. I guess I'll be packing then. John has to decide what he wants to take. Yesterday he said he's only taking 2 polo shirts, for 10 days??? I don't know how he thinks and I'm better off not knowing.:confused: Looks like we might get another snow storm Friday, we are lucky to be leaving Thursday morning. We usually fly down a day early but this year we are going to save the money and fly the day of. It's risky but we have done it before. Since we are paying for my son to go, we will need the extra money for his bar bill.:eek: I think I'll go get all our paperwork together and make sure I have enough copies of everything.

Cindy

BREATH, BREATH, BREATH! You've got your hands full but, like always, YOU will get it all done!!!!........I know that since we started cruising with a Service Dog everything about my packing changed. I always tell myself "she's so worth it!"

John's kidding.......2 shirts for the week! :eek: I just don't get men and what they think. Acutally, I don't care any more. If Morey wants to wear the same shirt everyday.......it's his decision......Years ago I would have put up a stink or, at least said something. Now, I don't say a word. He's a grownup!!!!! I think!!!!! Or, do some men go backwards as they age?

My apologies to all you guys who really take the time to pick your clothes and care about it, at any age.

Cindy, it will all come together......miraculously, but it will all come together! ;)

[S.S. Cruisers]

I swear they are all related! I pack, so I make sure he has at least 7 shirts. Then of course dress shirts, t shirts, yada, yada, yada.........It's the same thing at home. I have to say, give me that shirt so I can wash it. But I haven't showered, all the more reason to give it to me! My hardest part of packing is leaving out the meds and bathroom stuff for the morning we are leaving. Good grief, I almost need a whole carry-on just for that stuff!

[wizard-of-roz]

I swear they are all related! I pack, so I make sure he has at least 7 shirts. Then of course dress shirts, t shirts, yada, yada, yada.........It's the same thing at home. I have to say, give me that shirt so I can wash it. But I haven't showered, all the more reason to give it to me! My hardest part of packing is leaving out the meds and bathroom stuff for the morning we are leaving. Good grief, I almost need a whole carry-on just for that stuff!

Then add a Service Dog to the equation. The food/meds/brushes/play toys/chewies/bottled water, etc., etc. I used to bring her salmon oil [must go to capsules], and her bed. Boy, have I gotten smarter on some of this stuff. You should have seen when we brought her faux-grass or her bag of mulch.....that was interesting to explain to the port authority folks, again, I've gotten smarter. I just INSIST that the ship have the right stuff.

I love when Morey wears his favorite tank-top for days in a row [at home] and the darn thing looks like it could grow feet and walk away. Mind you, he's not smelling badly.....so, I try not to look too hard. Then I ask the simple question, "isn't your hair getting a little long?" And, the angry toned response is "yes, I'm growing it long!"

I've decided to leave these things out of our discussions and pick and choose my battles. Which with a senior man could be many!

Oh! Please tell me he's not reading these!!!! :(

Actually, I know he's not. Since I upgraded my computer at home and I have a new password.......that he doesn't know, yet!!!!! Oh! I'm so proud of myself!!!!!

I know, I know, stop being so smug, it's bound to come back and bite me!!!!

Back to work!

[Quampapetet]

Quam: Ok, so I will leave your cold out and I now count three "occurances". That should be it. You need to take it easy! I can only hope 2011 gets here quickly. I am glad you didn't re-injure your wrist, when you fell. I would be so embarassed. That's what happenend to me when I injured my back. Hope you are on the mend.



Yeah, hopefully that will be all that will happen to me! I fell into a split, so no chance of reinjuring my wrist, but it was for sure plenty embarrassing! :o

[Quampapetet]

GEEEEZ, woman, you have a "mobility harness, a Service Dog" to assist you in your mobility and you're falling???? :( Just kidding!!!!

Yeah, seriously! I'd actually let go of the harness at that moment, although I don't think it'd have helped anyway 'cause my leg didn't pick up off the ground and I ended up in a split. This was at the top of an escalator (I'd already commanded my dog to jump off - she is trained on how to safely ride an escalator), so my other leg kept going forward. I had to be dragged out of the way so everybody behind me wouldn't pile on top of me, LOL - now THAT would have been quite the scene! :p


Enough, is enough. Take your time when you're walking; put some aloe on that wrist and knee and have a wonderfully healthy and happy New Year!

Yeah, we were in a rush trying to get to our connecting flight 'cause our first flight was delayed 1 hr. 40 min. and we only had a 1 hr. 45 min. layover (the pilot made up some time in the air).

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Yeah, this snow thing is new to me! I was getting out of the jeep and the left slide, fortunately I was still more or less sitting on the seat. Fell back and hit my arm on the door latch.........

I just saw a video on Yahoo (I think) about a school in Virginia is not allowing a young boy bring his service dog to school. The school that trained the dog is not on the list at the boys school to allow it! :eek: I see ADA violations written all over it............

Hope everyone is stable and be careful.

Cindy: Thinking of you running around trying to take care of three boys, John, your son and Wexy. Bless you. You deserve your cruise, sitting on the Aft with an adult beverage in hand and the ocean air blowing in your hair!

[wizard-of-roz]

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Yeah, seriously! I'd actually let go of the harness at that moment, although I don't think it'd have helped anyway 'cause my leg didn't pick up off the ground and I ended up in a split. This was at the top of an escalator (I'd already commanded my dog to jump off - she is trained on how to safely ride an escalator), so my other leg kept going forward. I had to be dragged out of the way so everybody behind me wouldn't pile on top of me, LOL - now THAT would have been quite the scene! :p


[color=#000000]

Yeah, we were in a rush trying to get to our connecting flight 'cause our first flight was delayed 1 hr. 40 min. and we only had a 1 hr. 45 min. layover (the pilot made up some time in the air).

Yikes, I think you need to consider yourself very lucky that you didn't break something.

When I graduated from CCI the dogs were not trained on escalators, now they are. I'm so glad, since it can be the fasted way to the next level in many venues.
[COLOR=#4b0082]
Brenda has the hairiest paw pads. I'm sure that this has to be kept very, very trimmed so that the hair doesn't get caught in the escalator........OUCH!!!!!!!:eek: