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

[guitarest]

I give the babies salmon treats from Blue Buffalo, it has glucosamine included in it.

What a day Blitz at the Vet and me at the ER again. Well I found out how much a baby Blitz really is. That ear is really sensitive and it took the Vet, three vet techs and me (with a broken rib already) to try to hold him still. One of the vet techs let go and Blitz hit me in the chest exactly where I have the broken rib. well good news its not ear mites, bad news is we dont know if something fell in the ear and thats why its infected. I finally got control of Blitz at the Vet; he was really scared everyone in the room trying to hold him down. I finally did get him to chill out by standing in front and and told him "Out" and for the most part he did calm down. So $130.00 dollars later I have antibiotics and Blitz will be seen again on Friday. I suggested to the Vet when this happened to King, I was given two little pills and it made King very tired and it allowed King to chill while his ears were cleaned. This will happen to Blitz on Friday; I did feel so bad for him since it has to be painful and everyone crowded around him. All the old vet techs were released or quit (?) so its a brand new staff of very inexperienced Vet Techs. One girl was trying to hold Blitz but her hands were near the mouth and I suggest a muzzle; he has never bit anyone and I dont want it to happen any time this year either. I had Blitz open his mouth and I showed the little girl how a GSD teeth work and explained while a Pit will bite and hold on a GSD teeth especially the teeth behind the K9's are just like a sharp scissor and the mouth is designed to cut flesh. She stayed away from Blitz after that. Not all was bad today; after the Vet Blitz got a few hamburger patties from daddy and we are friends again.

We did get a chance to weigh him when we first arrived and all the Doc's do love Blitz and its been 6 months since they have seen him. Today Mr Blitz topped the scales at 96lbs; and that was a goof how these new techs tried to work with Blitz. I told her just walk him over to the scale and tell him to sit; OMG I seriously believe they got rid of the old vet techs because they wanted to much money and hired anyone to assist the vet. The girl was so clueless and finally I walked in the scale room and told the young lady to tell Blitz up (to get on the scale) and sit (or sietz) and he sat right down with no problems. Really if your going to hire Vet tech's they should have some experience with pets like dogs. This little girl is a danger to herself, especially with her lack of experience. If Blitz had been a biter or even somewhat aggressive it would have been Meal Time at the Vets. I mean really Blitz would not intentionally hurt any one but you have 5 people in a room trying to hold him down and something could have happened.

OK with that said I am off my soap box. I'm just venting because I really feel the the vet failed me today with him laying off the experienced staff and hiring inexperienced staff.

OK different subject; what about Carnival in the news again. There are 8 Americans on board and those dang pirates smell a big pay out if they can board that ship. Geeez whats up with that; yeah it appears it was a fire that knocked out the ship; I guess bad timing for that little Oops to happen.....

OK finished...........

[rangeley]

Roz,
John said try peanut butter. I remember when we started Wex on those, he kind of balked at taking them. I just throw them in his food and he eats them. Are they Cosequin or some other brand?

[guitarest]

I would think that it's not so bad in Shepherd's because their ears stand-up and get a lot of air.....maybe they also get a lot of "stuff" because they're so exposed. Poor Labs have those flappy ears that get no air so they stay a great breeding ground for everything.

Well since yesterday and me finding out its not ear mites and the Vet asking about Blitz swimming etc I have watched the pups interact and I now know what happened to Blitz's ear. Sarge's former nick name that really explains his loving nature is "Sir Lick A-Lot", Sarge has this morning licked Blitz's ears, face, the bottom of my feet everything..... So now I know the source; how to stop it. Its easy to stop and I have corrected Sarge already today.

Hey Roz don't know if you saw it I give the babies gluscosamine daily in their treats. I buy a bag of Blue Buffalo treats and it tastes good to them. Dont get me wrong the babies love their treats but these are actually vet approved with Salmon and sure have a unique smell to them. These are not given out like regular treats, only once daily. I have my guys on a mix of Blue Buffalo and Taste of the Wild dog food and while its more expensive foods my babies actually eat less food daily since its better food.

Hopefully this helps.

[wizard-of-roz]

That does sound funny and cute to see! Sounds like he got away with it in his previous home. He'll eventually learn.

Brenda likely thinks he's a doofus young kid! ;)

Perfect description - "doofus"......:D

[wizard-of-roz]

How bout if after you sprinkle the powder on his food, you wet it a little bit so he doesn't see the powder. We don't have that problem with Orson. He's fine with the tablets. But then again, you could put a Buick in his bowl and he would eat it. We also give him about a half cup of thawed string beans with each meal.

The "Buick" thing is so funny!!!!! Your suggestion is exactly what my friend at work said......I didn't give him any this morning, I'll try it tomorrow, thanks!

[wizard-of-roz]

I give the babies salmon treats from Blue Buffalo, it has glucosamine included in it.

What a day Blitz at the Vet and me at the ER again. Well I found out how much a baby Blitz really is. That ear is really sensitive and it took the Vet, three vet techs and me (with a broken rib already) to try to hold him still. One of the vet techs let go and Blitz hit me in the chest exactly where I have the broken rib. well good news its not ear mites, bad news is we dont know if something fell in the ear and thats why its infected. I finally got control of Blitz at the Vet; he was really scared everyone in the room trying to hold him down. I finally did get him to chill out by standing in front and and told him "Out" and for the most part he did calm down. So $130.00 dollars later I have antibiotics and Blitz will be seen again on Friday. I suggested to the Vet when this happened to King, I was given two little pills and it made King very tired and it allowed King to chill while his ears were cleaned. This will happen to Blitz on Friday; I did feel so bad for him since it has to be painful and everyone crowded around him. All the old vet techs were released or quit (?) so its a brand new staff of very inexperienced Vet Techs. One girl was trying to hold Blitz but her hands were near the mouth and I suggest a muzzle; he has never bit anyone and I dont want it to happen any time this year either. I had Blitz open his mouth and I showed the little girl how a GSD teeth work and explained while a Pit will bite and hold on a GSD teeth especially the teeth behind the K9's are just like a sharp scissor and the mouth is designed to cut flesh. She stayed away from Blitz after that. Not all was bad today; after the Vet Blitz got a few hamburger patties from daddy and we are friends again.

We did get a chance to weigh him when we first arrived and all the Doc's do love Blitz and its been 6 months since they have seen him. Today Mr Blitz topped the scales at 96lbs; and that was a goof how these new techs tried to work with Blitz. I told her just walk him over to the scale and tell him to sit; OMG I seriously believe they got rid of the old vet techs because they wanted to much money and hired anyone to assist the vet. The girl was so clueless and finally I walked in the scale room and told the young lady to tell Blitz up (to get on the scale) and sit (or sietz) and he sat right down with no problems. Really if your going to hire Vet tech's they should have some experience with pets like dogs. This little girl is a danger to herself, especially with her lack of experience. If Blitz had been a biter or even somewhat aggressive it would have been Meal Time at the Vets. I mean really Blitz would not intentionally hurt any one but you have 5 people in a room trying to hold him down and something could have happened.

OK with that said I am off my soap box. I'm just venting because I really feel the the vet failed me today with him laying off the experienced staff and hiring inexperienced staff.

OK different subject; what about Carnival in the news again. There are 8 Americans on board and those dang pirates smell a big pay out if they can board that ship. Geeez whats up with that; yeah it appears it was a fire that knocked out the ship; I guess bad timing for that little Oops to happen.....

OK finished...........

Quite a day you had! Vet bills can be so expensive. I hope Blitz is better soon and your sore ribs didn't get too much more damage.

I don't count on the Vet Tech's much [it's a really tough job and the turnover for these hardworking folks is frequent], I give all the instructions to Brenda & now Horton and the Tech's just stand by and watch. It was a stressful day for poor Blitz Boy! Thank goodness it doesn't come often.

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz,
John said try peanut butter. I remember when we started Wex on those, he kind of balked at taking them. I just throw them in his food and he eats them. Are they Cosequin or some other brand?

Brenda loves them but I think in the beginning [years ago] it take a few trys before she finally just chewed them along with her food......I'll try wetting the stuff and hopefully it will be no problem tomorrow. Or, it may be John's idea and here comes the peanut butter!

[wizard-of-roz]

I booked October 6th, Pacific Coastal, again.....Coming into San Francisco on a Sunday and in the afternoon, instead of early morning is so attractive. And, staying for two days gives my kids a chance to come and visit me with ease. Also, there are no sea days and Catalina was thrown into the mix. It just sounds like a totally fun cruise and I love the Sapphire.

I'm so sorry about the Mexico cruises being such a problem with the pirates and thieves that are ruining it for not only the tourists but the poor folks who are trying desparately to make a living in this already impoverised country. So sad!!!!! :(

[wizard-of-roz]

Sunshine: I hope all is well for you. I doubt you can even take time to look at this board, you're so busy with your beautiful daughters wedding plans. This is a very exciting time, I hope you're enjoying it.

I miss you and wish you all the wonderful things that come with watching a child marry and start their own life together with the one they love. Enjoy your family & friends and come back and tell us all about it, when you have the time.

Congratulations!

[rangeley]

I booked October 6th, Pacific Coastal, again.....Coming into San Francisco on a Sunday and in the afternoon, instead of early morning is so attractive. And, staying for two days gives my kids a chance to come and visit me with ease. Also, there are no sea days and Catalina was thrown into the mix. It just sounds like a totally fun cruise and I love the Sapphire.

I'm so sorry about the Mexico cruises being such a problem with the pirates and thieves that are ruining it for not only the tourists but the poor folks who are trying desparately to make a living in this already impoverised country. So sad!!!!! :(

Wow Sounds like a nice cruise. I have been looking too. We found we like for next Jan. John wants to skip a year, but....NO I say. HeHe He hates booking early, but he doesn't realize it gives us time to throw some money on the bill each month instead of paying all at once!! Men.

I don't know if I mentioned we finally got our rollin shower put in the apt. Three days at hotels was exhausting. Took over a year but its finally done. Much easier for John. But he has hurt his arm and I think he did it from the way he gets in the new shower. UGH He had to wait til I got back here today to get out of bed. He seems better now but still can't straighten it at the elbow.

Cindy


Are you getting the Cosequin through the IADDP?

[wizard-of-roz]

Wow Sounds like a nice cruise. I have been looking too. We found we like for next Jan. John wants to skip a year, but....NO I say. HeHe He hates booking early, but he doesn't realize it gives us time to throw some money on the bill each month instead of paying all at once!! Men.

I don't know if I mentioned we finally got our rollin shower put in the apt. Three days at hotels was exhausting. Took over a year but its finally done. Much easier for John. But he has hurt his arm and I think he did it from the way he gets in the new shower. UGH He had to wait til I got back here today to get out of bed. He seems better now but still can't straighten it at the elbow.

Cindy

Are you getting the Cosequin through the IADDP?

Cindy, I'm so sorry to hear about John's injury. Please give his elbow a big "Roz Kiss" and, you'll see, it'll be better in no time.

Would John ever consider cruising the Pacific Northwest with Roz & Horty? Between the dogs and you and me there'd be no time for anyone else!!!!!


I have not taken advantage of my IAADP membership to buy my Heartguard/Advantix or my Glucosamine, I know I should. I will, I will. It's just that it's so much easier to buy the stuff when I'm ordering the dogs Virbac chews from Entirely Pets, I just lump everything together, get my free shipping and it's done! Getting into the car and going over to the Vets costs as much [the gas] as just ordering online and be done with it!

To fill my car with gas is almost $100. Pretty soon I'm gonna hitch a wagon to Horty and he can pull me to work! :eek:

[Jaspersmom73]

Hello! I am looking at going on a cruise next year and have some questions about taking my service dog. I have flown with him before, but wondered if anyone could tell me what paperwork the cruiselines require to allow my service dog to accompany me.
Also, I should mention that he is a psychiatric service dog (NOT therapy dog), so I don't know if the requirements are different.

To address what some of the other posters were talking about, I get asked all the time what kind of service dog my fella is because I don't appear disabled. It's very uncomfortable because I don't really like revealing that he is a psychiatric service dog to strangers who invariably have no understanding of what that means. Does anyone have any tips for dealing with this?

Any help you can offer. . .

Stephanie

[wizard-of-roz]

Hello! I am looking at going on a cruise next year and have some questions about taking my service dog. I have flown with him before, but wondered if anyone could tell me what paperwork the cruiselines require to allow my service dog to accompany me.
Also, I should mention that he is a psychiatric service dog (NOT therapy dog), so I don't know if the requirements are different.

To address what some of the other posters were talking about, I get asked all the time what kind of service dog my fella is because I don't appear disabled. It's very uncomfortable because I don't really like revealing that he is a psychiatric service dog to strangers who invariably have no understanding of what that means. Does anyone have any tips for dealing with this?

Any help you can offer. . .

Stephanie

Stephanie, welcome to our thread. I, too, do not have a disability that is obvious so I get asked all sorts of questions. It seems if you're not blind your need for a Service Dog makes no sense to the public.

My favorite question is, "how did you get your dog onboard the ship?" I always answer, "in my hanging bag!"

When asked what my dog does for me or the question is more like this, "what kind of dog is that?" I say, "a Black Lab!" I know very well, that they meant, "what does that dog do for you and why do you have it?" I answer, "she's a Search & Rescue Dog!" And, I keep walking. If we get to talking more and it seems I'm making a new friend, I will let them know exactly what my dog does.

You do NOT owe anyone an explanation of what your dog does and it's really NO ONE'S business except Immigration/TSA and other public officials who may want to see further documentation and paperwork on you and your dog. The cruise ship/the hotel/etc. may ask about your Service Dog and you may answer their questions.

Your dogs good behavior will be proof enough that he/she is a trained Service Dog. All I do when I walk up to the counter is ask my dog to sit and stay, right in front of the person behind the counter and they're so impressed by my dogs quick response, they ask no further questions.

The paperwork for cruising is:
1. U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Animal and Plan Health Inspection Service. U.S. Interstate and International Cert. of Health Examination for Small Animals Certificate.

It's a (6) copy Cert. given to you by a USDA Vet. My Vet has them in his office [ask your Vet if he is qualified or knows a Vet who is.]

On this Cert. Is the doctors list of your dogs immunization record and the doctors signature with address.
2. A Medical report showing your dogs last visit with the Vet/rabies/distemper/DHPP/Bordetella/Heartworm Antigen test results and general history of dogs health. (The training org. will give this to you.)
3. A copy of your dogs last examination with the Vet, which will show all current shots, etc.
4. Microchip information.
5. Copy of City Dog License
6. Any other pertinent information from your Medical Doctor /Vet/Training org.

Make 3 copies of all of the above: One you will hand to the people at the pier when you're checking in, one you will give to the Purser's Desk [if they ask] and one you will give to Immigration if they ask.

Always keep the originals for yourself to show but not give away.

My retired Service Dog, Brenda, had completed her 15th cruise and I'm taking my new dog, Horton, with me on March 24th for his first. I find if I have all my dogs in a row before I embark the ship that my cruise goes very smoothly.

I always call the Special Needs Dept. [I can give you the numbers if you want] one week before I cruise to let them know that I want them to call or email the ship to have the Pottybox placed where I want and to make sure that it's the appropriate size. They really appreciate the "heads-up!"

You're going to love cruising with your dog. It's now my very favorite way to vacation........so easy, so carefree and so much fun!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

1. U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. U.S. Interstate and International Cert. of Health Examination for Small Animals Certificate.






The form is Agriculture Animal and Plant [not plan] - I bet you figuered that out!

[rangeley]

Cindy, I'm so sorry to hear about John's injury. Please give his elbow a big "Roz Kiss" and, you'll see, it'll be better in no time.

Would John ever consider cruising the Pacific Northwest with Roz & Horty? Between the dogs and you and me there'd be no time for anyone else!!!!!


I have not taken advantage of my IAADP membership to buy my Heartguard/Advantix or my Glucosamine, I know I should. I will, I will. It's just that it's so much easier to buy the stuff when I'm ordering the dogs Virbac chews from Entirely Pets, I just lump everything together, get my free shipping and it's done! Getting into the car and going over to the Vets costs as much [the gas] as just ordering online and be done with it!

To fill my car with gas is almost $100. Pretty soon I'm gonna hitch a wagon to Horty and he can pull me to work! :eek:


Roz, I checked out that cruise and it looks awesome!!!! It's like seeing all of the beauty of Cali on one cruise. And it's not John that won't go, it's me :(. I really hate to fly and LA is a long way to go. John has been bugging me to go out west for a long time. He thought the trip was great too. UGH I hate myself :eek:

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz, I checked out that cruise and it looks awesome!!!! It's like seeing all of the beauty of Cali on one cruise. And it's not John that won't go, it's me :(. I really hate to fly and LA is a long way to go. John has been bugging me to go out west for a long time. He thought the trip was great too. UGH I hate myself :eek:

Morey's eactly like you.....there's a great cruise out of N.Y. in October seeing the east coast: N.Y./Halifax/Saint John/Bar Harbor/Boston & Newport. I'd love to do this itinerary but Morey NEVER will. I may just do it myself with Horty. It means I would need more vacation time and the cost of the flight, the hassle, etc., etc., but I need to do it.

Morey has Brenda to keep him company and vice-versa. As long as Brenny is in our life, she'll NEVER be left with a dog sitter or in a kennel so our travels would be different any way [Morey loves this excuse!]

I'll have to come your way to see you......it can be done, it just won't happen as soon as I'd like.

Don't beat yourself up over it.....we love you just the way you are!

[Quampapetet]

I would think that it's not so bad in Shepherd's because their ears stand-up and get a lot of air.....maybe they also get a lot of "stuff" because they're so exposed. Poor Labs have those flappy ears that get no air so they stay a great breeding ground for everything.

This week I'm trying to get Horton to eat his gluscosamine/chondroitin in powder form since he hates the tablets that Brenda loves. Well, he ate his food, with the powder sprinkled on and in it but he hated it.

Do you guys have any great suggestions for getting the glucosamine/chon. into him...any special secrets or formula?

With his long legs and huge body I'd like to see him get every advantage of supplements that Brenda gets!!!!!

Are you giving him the Cosequin/Dasuquin tablets? (Did you change the covered dog on your IAADP membership yet?) Those are beef-flavored. If he doesn't like those (too bad, since they are free!), I know I have seen lots of other products with g/c in them, including treats - the downside to all of those is that they may not be the stated level of g/c (look for certified products - I forget the name of the organization) and the quality of the g/c won't be the same as the Cosequin/Dasuquin (the company that makes those is the number-one company in reputation and recommended by vets and doctors [for the human version of g/c they make, CosamineDS]).

I suppose you could try adding some flavor to the Cosequin/Dasuquin by spraying on some doggy food flavor spray (look for the all-natural kind) or chicken stock/broth or by wrapping the tablet in a slice of cheese (i.e. Kraft American Cheese Slices - they have the thinness to easily wrap around meds).

[Quampapetet]

I have not taken advantage of my IAADP membership to buy my Heartguard/Advantix or my Glucosamine, I know I should. I will, I will. It's just that it's so much easier to buy the stuff when I'm ordering the dogs Virbac chews from Entirely Pets, I just lump everything together, get my free shipping and it's done! Getting into the car and going over to the Vets costs as much [the gas] as just ordering online and be done with it!

To fill my car with gas is almost $100. Pretty soon I'm gonna hitch a wagon to Horty and he can pull me to work! :eek:

You really ought to get the Cosequin/Dasuquin for free via IAADP for Doofus (hehe!) once your membership gets changed to him being your service dog getting the benefits (I think there is a waiting period). You'll still have to buy Brenda's, but it sure will save you well over a hundred dollars!

You don't have to go to the vet's office; just call them to tell them to call the company for your next six-month supply. You only need to do it twice a year. If your vet doesn't already have the instructions paper and the copy of your IAADP membership card, you can fax it to them. They then call up the company that makes the supplements and have the six-month supply shipped to your house. Easy-peasy and no gas involved! :)

[Quampapetet]

Hello! I am looking at going on a cruise next year and have some questions about taking my service dog. I have flown with him before, but wondered if anyone could tell me what paperwork the cruiselines require to allow my service dog to accompany me.
Also, I should mention that he is a psychiatric service dog (NOT therapy dog), so I don't know if the requirements are different.

To address what some of the other posters were talking about, I get asked all the time what kind of service dog my fella is because I don't appear disabled. It's very uncomfortable because I don't really like revealing that he is a psychiatric service dog to strangers who invariably have no understanding of what that means. Does anyone have any tips for dealing with this?

Any help you can offer. . .

Stephanie

As long as your dog is trained to do tasks that directly relate to your disability (and you are legally disabled as defined by the ADA), and is not solely for comfort/emotional support/its presence/petting/etc., your dog is allowed on cruises. Emotional Support Dogs are not allowed on cruises, unlike on airplanes. (Your dog also must be trained in public access and be housebroken and be kept on a leash in all public areas, of course.)

The vet paperwork you will need depends on the countries the cruise goes to. Some will not allow your dog to get off period (Jamaica and Barbados are two such countries), some require one or two rabies titer tests (with at least two rabies vaccinations having been done after your dog was microchipped - hopefully he is already microchipped!), some just require the international health certificate, some require an import permit, etc. (Yes, it can get confusing, especially when you are having to check on three to five countries at once for the same trip!) At minimum, you will need an international health certificate so you can get back into the States when the cruise is over (even if you don't get off at any of the ports).

If there is a port you want to do that your dog can't do, you will need to leave your dog on the ship in the care of a family member or friend travelling with you.

You do not need to tell anyone what type of service dog your dog is. If a business asks, you just need to tell them the dog is a service dog for your disability and name a couple of the tasks he does for you. They cannot ask you what your diagnosis is or what type of disability it is (psychiatric). If the public asks, it is none of their business if you don't want it to be. Just politely tell them that your medical records are personal and you wouldn't ask what is on their records. Some people don't realize it is such a personal question they are asking!

[Quampapetet]

The paperwork for cruising is:
1. U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Animal and Plan Health Inspection Service. U.S. Interstate and International Cert. of Health Examination for Small Animals Certificate.

It's a (6) copy Cert. given to you by a USDA Vet. My Vet has them in his office [ask your Vet if he is qualified or knows a Vet who is.]

On this Cert. Is the doctors list of your dogs immunization record and the doctors signature with address.
2. A Medical report showing your dogs last visit with the Vet/rabies/distemper/DHPP/Bordetella/Heartworm Antigen test results and general history of dogs health. (The training org. will give this to you.)
3. A copy of your dogs last examination with the Vet, which will show all current shots, etc.
4. Microchip information.
5. Copy of City Dog License
6. Any other pertinent information from your Medical Doctor /Vet/Training org.

Make 3 copies of all of the above: One you will hand to the people at the pier when you're checking in, one you will give to the Purser's Desk [if they ask] and one you will give to Immigration if they ask.

Always keep the originals for yourself to show but not give away.

My retired Service Dog, Brenda, had completed her 15th cruise and I'm taking my new dog, Horton, with me on March 24th for his first. I find if I have all my dogs in a row before I embark the ship that my cruise goes very smoothly.

I always call the Special Needs Dept. [I can give you the numbers if you want] one week before I cruise to let them know that I want them to call or email the ship to have the Pottybox placed where I want and to make sure that it's the appropriate size. They really appreciate the "heads-up!"

You're going to love cruising with your dog. It's now my very favorite way to vacation........so easy, so carefree and so much fun!!!!




The paperwork needed depends on the ports of calls' requirements. The health certificate is always needed and often there are other documents/test results/permits needed, too. Like Roz said, it has to be filled out by a USDA-approved vet, which is not every vet. Sometimes you will have to get the certificate endorsed/stamped by your area's USDA office, too, depending on the country.

You do not need the records from your dog's last vet checkup/shots record. All the info. about vaccinations/titers will be on the health certificate.

You do not need the microchip certificate, as the microchip number will be on the health certificate and any needed tests (i.e. rabies titer).

You do not need your town/county/state license, as this has absolutely nothing to do with travel or anything any country needs to know. The license, which not everybody needs depending on where they live, is just a local thing so your town/county/state can tax you for owning a dog and, in many cases, make sure your dog has been vaccinated for rabies to protect everyone else. The tag is not an acceptable form of proof of rabies vaccination for travelling out of the country; you will need the health certificate and rabies certificate for that. (The latter is not required by some places, but always bring a copy of it just in case. One time my vet forgot to say on the health certificate that the rabies vaccine was the three-year vaccine and we were past year one, so having the rabies certificate saved me the hassle and expense of making an int'l phone call to my vet to have them fax the certificate over!)

You do not need a doctor's letter or service dog certification, etc.

You don't need to make copies of the paperwork, but you can if you want. The cruiseline will make copies to give to every country.

The whole reason the health certificate is in duplicate is so that the country you are entering can take copies of it. The different page colors indicate they are for certain people in the process. For cruises, it is different because there are multiple countries so there are not enough duplicates, but normally travelling internationally, you definitely do need to give the country the original duplicated pages (whichever colors they need - for service dogs, not all pages apply).

Just to be clear, you MUST tell the cruiseline you will have your service dog with you, unlike with other situations of public access, and this must be done when you book (book first, then tell, of course!). You cannot just call a week ahead of time and tell them. That is not what Roz meant, but I just wanted to make it clear so you didn't think you could do that. You can work with the cruiseline for them to give you a potty area for the dog (what you are given depends on the cruiseline) or you can bring your own dog potty (i.e. faux grass placed on top of absorbant, disposable doggy pee pads). You are responsible for cleaning up after your dog on the ship just like you are on land.

Do be aware that many countries cruises go to don't have laws requiring places to allow you to bring your service dog with you, so if you are doing an excursion in such a country, you will need to check with the company if it is okay that your dog is with you. In these cases, there is also no law saying they cannot ask you what your disability is/why you need your dog, so you may have to answer that for them to allow you. Remain polite, but explain that your dog is well-trained and all that education stuff. Obviously, there are certain excursions you won't be able to bring your dog on, like zip-lining (despite that recent TV commercial with the zip-lining Little Piggy crying, "Whee-whee-whee,")! You may have issues with restaurants and taxis in these countries especially. Education is the key to getting access and your dog being impeccably trained to be "invisible" is key to keeping that access and helping others who come after you get access.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

I hope all of you are safe. With all the weather related issues in different parts of our country and knowing that some of you live near these areas, please take care of yourselves and know that our thughts and good wishes are with all of you, your friends, your families and your furbabies.

[guitarest]

We got hit a day before the rest of the nation in this area, lighting every where and three furbabies in my lap. They dont understand broken ribs do hurt even after a week; all they understand is daddy were scared......

Crawfish is in season here and all three love crawfish....

[guitarest]

OK this is a video I shot about a hour ago, I love buying the dogs toys and this is a attempt to save some cash. Kong which is a dog toy company makes a toy that you slide empty water bottles into and I decided to save some cash. I took a old sock, a empty water bottle and some washcloths and tried to copy their toy. This toy; or sock lasted a few days. So tonight I just gave Blitz a empty water bottle and its now destroyed.

Watch the video and you will see me offer Blitz a hand for paw; he is trained to just look at the left hand and shake with the trainers right. Its a goof for sure I get people to try to shake his paw all the time; they think they are doing something wrong when its not them at all. Its a evil trick from the guy in Mississippi.....

Ha ha ha (evil grin)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aP5M8Nvelh8

[Rolls Royce Lover]

OMG! There so much that's disturbing about the video where do I begin.......I'm just glad that your all okay, with the distructive weather all around you!

Be careful letting your dog chew on plastic bottles and laying on electrical wiring......Jocko, you're making me a nervous wreck watching this video.

Take care.

[sunshine426]

We are all OK here in the south! The tornadoes were a bit too close for comfort Friday Night. We had our emergency supplies in the basement, Sandy on leash, shoes on our feet(ok we are barefoot kind of people) and computers and cells charged. The storm turned about one mile from our house and we were OK. The rest of my family was as well and of course all my four footed friends up at CA.

Sorry to be absent so much lately. As Roz knows and the rest of you are about too my husband has been facing some serious lung problems. We have been meeting with specialist around the country with conflicting diagnosis. He had a lung biopsy last week, and has recovered well from the procedure. We should have some results next week and maybe a treatment plan. My service dogs in training keep us grounded and amused as we face an uncertain prognosis.

Cooler is slated for March camp. If the "right" recepient is out their than I will send her forward gladly (OK, some tears, but still...)If the match is not made she will be with me another two months. She is rocking her advanced commands and LOVES to work.

Love and Wags to all....and happy crusing for those who have that in their future. Right now, Rich and I are hoping to plan a summer cruise after weddings and dog graduations are complete.

[guitarest]

OMG! There so much that's disturbing about the video where do I begin.......I'm just glad that your all okay, with the distructive weather all around you!

Be careful letting your dog chew on plastic bottles and laying on electrical wiring......Jocko, you're making me a nervous wreck watching this video.

Take care.

Those cables are for my guitars, and the babies stay away from them. I keep a real close eye on Blitz or any of the dogs as to what they chew on.

I posted it because I thought it was a cool trick for Blitz. Shaking paw is cool but being selevtive with what hand and paw is being used took a little more input from me; Blitz loves doing things for me. As for all the approved toys after they get to a certain stage of chewed on they get thrown away. Currently his toys last a few weeks and the first of every month old get thrown away and new toys purchased.

Hopefully this makes it easier for ya....

[guitarest]

We are all OK here in the south! The tornadoes were a bit too close for comfort Friday Night. We had our emergency supplies in the basement, Sandy on leash, shoes on our feet(ok we are barefoot kind of people) and computers and cells charged. The storm turned about one mile from our house and we were OK. The rest of my family was as well and of course all my four footed friends up at CA.

Sorry to be absent so much lately. As Roz knows and the rest of you are about too my husband has been facing some serious lung problems. We have been meeting with specialist around the country with conflicting diagnosis. He had a lung biopsy last week, and has recovered well from the procedure. We should have some results next week and maybe a treatment plan. My service dogs in training keep us grounded and amused as we face an uncertain prognosis.

Cooler is slated for March camp. If the "right" recepient is out their than I will send her forward gladly (OK, some tears, but still...)If the match is not made she will be with me another two months. She is rocking her advanced commands and LOVES to work.

Love and Wags to all....and happy crusing for those who have that in their future. Right now, Rich and I are hoping to plan a summer cruise after weddings and dog graduations are complete.

I'll pray for ya and your husband.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

We are all OK here in the south! The tornadoes were a bit too close for comfort Friday Night. We had our emergency supplies in the basement, Sandy on leash, shoes on our feet(ok we are barefoot kind of people) and computers and cells charged. The storm turned about one mile from our house and we were OK. The rest of my family was as well and of course all my four footed friends up at CA.

Sorry to be absent so much lately. As Roz knows and the rest of you are about too my husband has been facing some serious lung problems. We have been meeting with specialist around the country with conflicting diagnosis. He had a lung biopsy last week, and has recovered well from the procedure. We should have some results next week and maybe a treatment plan. My service dogs in training keep us grounded and amused as we face an uncertain prognosis.

Cooler is slated for March camp. If the "right" recepient is out their than I will send her forward gladly (OK, some tears, but still...)If the match is not made she will be with me another two months. She is rocking her advanced commands and LOVES to work.

Love and Wags to all....and happy crusing for those who have that in their future. Right now, Rich and I are hoping to plan a summer cruise after weddings and dog graduations are complete.

Sunshine, your life is so full right now. It's so good to hear from you. I hope that hubby's prognosis is a good one for him and that his health issues are resolved soon.

I'm so glad that you and Canine Assistants was spared any damage and that all the furbabies are safe. It was so scary to hear about all the tornadoes and know that people we love were in harms way!

My sister in law Debi will be joining me on my cruise in a few weeks and we'll be in the very same cabin you and I were in. I hope Horton likes it and finds it as easy as Brenda did to use the pottybox.

Good luck with all your wedding plans, take care of you and stay safe.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Those cables are for my guitars, and the babies stay away from them. I keep a real close eye on Blitz or any of the dogs as to what they chew on.

I posted it because I thought it was a cool trick for Blitz. Shaking paw is cool but being selevtive with what hand and paw is being used took a little more input from me; Blitz loves doing things for me. As for all the approved toys after they get to a certain stage of chewed on they get thrown away. Currently his toys last a few weeks and the first of every month old get thrown away and new toys purchased.

Hopefully this makes it easier for ya....

I knew you wouldn't put your babies in harms way......;)

[DisneyKidsDad]

OMG! There so much that's disturbing about the video where do I begin.......I'm just glad that your all okay, with the distructive weather all around you!

Be careful letting your dog chew on plastic bottles and laying on electrical wiring......Jocko, you're making me a nervous wreck watching this video.

Take care.

Ya see...I thought the disturbing part was the Mountain Dew pants!!

Just kidding :D:D

[rangeley]

Ya see...I thought the disturbing part was the Mountain Dew pants!!

Just kidding :D:D

OMG To funny!

[rangeley]

We are all OK here in the south! The tornadoes were a bit too close for comfort Friday Night. We had our emergency supplies in the basement, Sandy on leash, shoes on our feet(ok we are barefoot kind of people) and computers and cells charged. The storm turned about one mile from our house and we were OK. The rest of my family was as well and of course all my four footed friends up at CA.

Sorry to be absent so much lately. As Roz knows and the rest of you are about too my husband has been facing some serious lung problems. We have been meeting with specialist around the country with conflicting diagnosis. He had a lung biopsy last week, and has recovered well from the procedure. We should have some results next week and maybe a treatment plan. My service dogs in training keep us grounded and amused as we face an uncertain prognosis.

Cooler is slated for March camp. If the "right" recepient is out their than I will send her forward gladly (OK, some tears, but still...)If the match is not made she will be with me another two months. She is rocking her advanced commands and LOVES to work.

Love and Wags to all....and happy crusing for those who have that in their future. Right now, Rich and I are hoping to plan a summer cruise after weddings and dog graduations are complete.


So Sorry to hear about hubbys medical problems. You and your family are in our prayers.

Cindy

[rangeley]

Wow Roz, your cruise came up quick! I can't wait to hear how Horty does. I know you will have a great time.

Cindy

[guitarest]

Ya see...I thought the disturbing part was the Mountain Dew pants!!

Just kidding :D:D

Be nice now,my grand daughter picked them out....... :)

[wizard-of-roz]

Ya see...I thought the disturbing part was the Mountain Dew pants!!

Just kidding :D:D

Wait, one of the dogs was wearing Mountain Dew pants? I've got to re-watch this video.

[wizard-of-roz]

Wow Roz, your cruise came up quick! I can't wait to hear how Horty does. I know you will have a great time.

Cindy

The cruise is on March 24th. I need all the time I can get to shop.

I think Horton's going to be wonderful. I don't know how he'll be around the sea being all around him or how he'll handle the pools. Brenda always stayed safely away from the edges....he's such a goofball, I can see him wanting to jump right in. I really have to hold tight to his leash until I see how he reacts.

I'm going with two sister's in law....I love them both and we should have a wonderful time. One of them has never cruised before, it'll be fun watching her face light-up at all the sights and sounds of a cruise ship.

[MCDW]

Hi All, I have been away from the Boards while on a very long winter vacation to the South. Back now and was hit by disturbing news re the new EU Health Certificates for dogs entering any EU country.

The new certificate only allows 10 days between the signing of the certificate by a Canadian or US Government Vet to the arrival of the dog in the EU.

Darn, that is a really tight turnaround. For example, my flight from Canada to Fort Lauderdale is on the 13th and arrival in the Azores is the 23rd. That is 10 days...........so on the day I am suppose to be flying, I also need to be at the Government vet's office to have him certify the certificate. Oh, the EU new certificate has gone from two pages to five pages.

[wizard-of-roz]

Hi All, I have been away from the Boards while on a very long winter vacation to the South. Back now and was hit by disturbing news re the new EU Health Certificates for dogs entering any EU country.

The new certificate only allows 10 days between the signing of the certificate by a Canadian or US Government Vet to the arrival of the dog in the EU.

Darn, that is a really tight turnaround. For example, my flight from Canada to Fort Lauderdale is on the 13th and arrival in the Azores is the 23rd. That is 10 days...........so on the day I am suppose to be flying, I also need to be at the Government vet's office to have him certify the certificate. Oh, the EU new certificate has gone from two pages to five pages.

There must be the capability of getting an extension or is there confusion in the interpretation? A USDA Vet should be able to answer your questions. Mine is certified but is on vacation right now. Many times I get my certificate before [more than 10 days] before I'm to fly. 10 days is just NOT always good for me. I ALWAYS get my cert. longer than the cruiselines want for my travels and I accompany a letter from my Vet.

I know that some think that ALL I supply is not necessary but it's gotten me through Immigration/TSA and other official examinations with only a few questions.

Being able to be at the Gov. Vet on the day you need to fly is absurd....and impossible. Please let us know how you work through this.

[MCDW]

Hi Roz, I talked to the Government of Canada vet today and he tells me that the 10 days between him signing the new certificate and arriving in the EU is firm. The EU has made no exceptions.:mad: Same applies to US Government vets and their signing of the certificate. Stay tuned!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Hi Roz, I talked to the Government of Canada vet today and he tells me that the 10 days between him signing the new certificate and arriving in the EU is firm. The EU has made no exceptions.:mad: Same applies to US Government vets and their signing of the certificate. Stay tuned!!!

What does this mean? We're hoping to go to Switzerland with Horton at the end of next year. This 10 days is very worrysome. Do you suppose this is a Canadian/EU issue. I wonder if I'll have the same problems with U.S./EU......please keep us informed.

[MCDW]

What does this mean? We're hoping to go to Switzerland with Horton at the end of next year. This 10 days is very worrysome. Do you suppose this is a Canadian/EU issue. I wonder if I'll have the same problems with U.S./EU......please keep us informed.

Sorry Roz, but these are the new rules for entry to all EU countries from North America. There are also changes for the titer test when going to Britain.

It is a real bummer and very stress provoking. Do you think I could get the captain to sail faster?:rolleyes:

[S.S. Cruisers]

Evenin' all:
Sunshine: Hugs and all craws and paws crossed here for Rich's diagnosis.

I know Cooler will be the rock star that she is! She will "go" at the right time, thanks to Mom's training.

Hope everyone is doing good.

[wizard-of-roz]

Sorry Roz, but these are the new rules for entry to all EU countries from North America. There are also changes for the titer test when going to Britain.

It is a real bummer and very stress provoking. Do you think I could get the captain to sail faster?:rolleyes:

We all know what happens when Captains listen to passengers requests! :eek:

I can't stress over this.....by the time we're ready to plan our trip there will be changes to adhere to. I think I'll wait to see what the demands will be.

Let us know about the titer and other regulations required now. Thanks for the information.

[guitarest]

The true meaning of trust, watch Blitz cut through the rawhide like butter....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ViHes7Oq-s

[wizard-of-roz]

The true meaning of trust, watch Blitz cut through the rawhide like butter....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ViHes7Oq-s

I love Blitz's face and those ears....wow!

I love when I give Horton a piece of kibble with my fingers. He could chew through them easily, but is so careful and gentle to take the kibble with care. Respect and trust works wonders with our animals.

[guitarest]

I love Blitz's face and those ears....wow!

I love when I give Horton a piece of kibble with my fingers. He could chew through them easily, but is so careful and gentle to take the kibble with care. Respect and trust works wonders with our animals.


Blitz is grandchildren safe, I will record a movie of him taking a treat from a friend. He is so very careful, I trust him taking treats from a infant. All my pups are very careful; this all came about one day many decades ago with another Sheperd called Champ. He was a rescue as almost all my babies are and he took a treat from me and his top teeth raked across my fingers and broke skin. From that point on all my dogs have been taught to be oh so careful. So if you watch the video he is slicing that rawhide like its bread with those rear teeth. So a human hand or arm would have no chance at all; this is why he is trained to be so very careful. Even if he wasn't my little helper and I did not need him for assistance he would still be trained to "Be Nice".

How about a current pic of Horton? Pweaseeeeeeeee Roz

Here is my rescue Champ; he was in a kill facility and no one wanted him. It was my daughters birthday and I used it as a excuse to get another shepherd since it was years since Sheba passed away. Thats my children who are now both married and have shepherds of their own.

[guitarest]

I love Blitz's face and those ears....wow!

I love when I give Horton a piece of kibble with my fingers. He could chew through them easily, but is so careful and gentle to take the kibble with care. Respect and trust works wonders with our animals.


Blitz is grandchildren safe, I will record a movie of him taking a treat from a friend. He is so very careful, I trust him taking treats from a infant. All my pups are very careful; this all came about one day many decades ago with another Sheperd called Champ. He was a rescue as almost all my babies are and he took a treat from me and his top teeth raked across my fingers and broke skin. From that point on all my dogs have been taught to be oh so careful. So if you watch the video he is slicing that rawhide like its bread with those rear teeth. So a human hand or arm would have no chance at all; this is why he is trained to be so very careful. Even if he wasn't my little helper and I did not need him for assistance he would still be trained to "Be Nice".

How about a current pic of Horton? Pweaseeeeeeeee Roz

Here is Champ with my now grown children who are both married and have their own shepherds.

http://www.pruconsultants.com/champ.jpg

[guitarest]

OK so its time for funnies. As most know here I am quite a joker and love life. A few years ago many of my friends with German Shepherds asked me to design and put captions in those little yellow warning signs that are usually found suspended with suction cups in vehicles or in a persons house. I will post one of King; and links to the others. If any one wishes for me to edit or design a sign for their dog just ask. This is not for any form of payment; and all I will provide is a Jocko original sign that you can either print out at home or even take to a local print shop and have a real plastic sign made. This is something that I enjoy doing for my friends and it keeps me busy and active. Its also gets my mind off of my body falling apart right before my eyes.

Here is King, and its quite to the point and hanging in my living room window for all to see. These are all dogs that I know (or knew) number 3 is actually a killer attack kitty....

http://pruconsultants.com/sign/6.jpg

And now the links to the others, enjoy. The first link was individual picture of my friends GSD's and this was a sign they wanted deigned to show we as many nations are not afraid of those who wish to cause harm to the worlds innocent people. If yall want we could even do a small sign like this with a different subject matter but include headshots of the wonder service animals here

http://pruconsultants.com/sign/we.jpg

http://pruconsultants.com/sign/1.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/2.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/3.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/4.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/5.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/6.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/7.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/8.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/9.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/10.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/11.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/12.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/13.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/14.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/15.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/16.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/17.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/18.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/19.jpg
http://pruconsultants.com/sign/gsd.jpg

[wizard-of-roz]

Blitz is grandchildren safe, I will record a movie of him taking a treat from a friend. He is so very careful, I trust him taking treats from a infant. All my pups are very careful; this all came about one day many decades ago with another Sheperd called Champ. He was a rescue as almost all my babies are and he took a treat from me and his top teeth raked across my fingers and broke skin. From that point on all my dogs have been taught to be oh so careful. So if you watch the video he is slicing that rawhide like its bread with those rear teeth. So a human hand or arm would have no chance at all; this is why he is trained to be so very careful. Even if he wasn't my little helper and I did not need him for assistance he would still be trained to "Be Nice".

How about a current pic of Horton? Pweaseeeeeeeee Roz

Here is Champ with my now grown children who are both married and have their own shepherds.

http://www.pruconsultants.com/champ.jpg

What a beautiful picture, really lovely.

It seems I am "picture download" challenged.....When I have free moments, I can do it if I give myself time to play with it. I have so many wonderful pictures I'd love to share. You should see my desk and walls. I'm busy at work [the President of Israel is visiting along with other dignitaries and I'm focused on them.] When they go away, I'll get into my computer and try and download some.

[DisneyKidsDad]

What a beautiful picture, really lovely.

It seems I am "picture download" challenged.....When I have free moments, I can do it if I give myself time to play with it. I have so many wonderful pictures I'd love to share. You should see my desk and walls. I'm busy at work [the President of Israel is visiting along with other dignitaries and I'm focused on them.] When they go away, I'll get into my computer and try and download some.


The President of Israel came all that way just to see Horton?? :eek:

[wizard-of-roz]

The President of Israel came all that way just to see Horton?? :eek:

Ya know, if the Syrian/Iranian and a few other countries leaders, in the middle east, would take one dog from CCI and focus on training/raising and playing with it, there would be no issues over there. They'd be too darn busy to plan wars, make bombs and work on ways to destroy others.

I would love to introduce Horton to Mr. Peres, I bet he'd love him!

[guitarest]

Ya know, if the Syrian/Iranian and a few other countries leaders, in the middle east, would take one dog from CCI and focus on training/raising and playing with it, there would be no issues over there. They'd be too darn busy to plan wars, make bombs and work on ways to destroy others.

I would love to introduce Horton to Mr. Peres, I bet he'd love him!

So young and already a legend in his own time; Go Horton.

Every time you mention his name I instantly think....

http://ia.media-imdb.com/images/M/MV5BMTI3NDA3ODE0N15BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNjE0MzU1MQ@@._ V1._SX300_SY425_.jpg

[Latitude 20]

For those who like wine :D . . .

Cru Vin Dogs (http://www.cruvindogs.com/index.cfm) will donate $1 for every bottle purchased to CCI or other animal service/rescue organizations. You get to pick the donee when you check out.

Ordered a couple bottles and will report back on how they taste soon!

[wizard-of-roz]

So young and already a legend in his own time; Go Horton.

Every time you mention his name I instantly think....

http://ia.media-imdb.com/images/M/MV5BMTI3NDA3ODE0N15BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNjE0MzU1MQ@@._ V1._SX300_SY425_.jpg

You "instantly think" what????

[wizard-of-roz]

For those who like wine :D . . .

Cru Vin Dogs (http://www.cruvindogs.com/index.cfm) will donate $1 for every bottle purchased to CCI or other animal service/rescue organizations. You get to pick the donee when you check out.

Ordered a couple bottles and will report back on how they taste soon!

Please let us know. I will support them if their product is good!

[guitarest]

You "instantly think" what????

There is supposed to be a picture of Horton hears a Hoo from the movie.

[DisneyKidsDad]

A what? :D

[guitarest]

http://ia.media-imdb.com/images/M/MV5BMTI3NDA3ODE0N15BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNjE0MzU1MQ@@._ V1._SY317_CR5,0,214,317_.jpg

http://ia.media-imdb.com/images/M/MV5BMTI3NDA3ODE0N15BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNjE0MzU1MQ@@._ V1._SY317_CR5,0,214,317_.jpg

[DisneyKidsDad]

http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ5L25cszcmoDH073h6QsHDfVsMjHZoV VGTkQOpvHOn5xlhSxb0dQ

[cjborne2]

Instantly think "hoo" not "what" :D (And I do too)

[wizard-of-roz]

http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ5L25cszcmoDH073h6QsHDfVsMjHZoV VGTkQOpvHOn5xlhSxb0dQ

It's my Horty.......What a great picture! My friend, at work, bought me a stuffed Horton, who was greeting me on my chair, when I came back from Team Training.

I am so absolutely crazy about this dog, who tried to run through a sliding glass door this morning. He got so stunned that he wouldn't eat breakfast [shocking!] It took him a minute or two to gather his wits before he could even eat. Now he's back to normal. Gotta watch glass doors and Horton. :eek:

[wizard-of-roz]

Instantly think "hoo" not "what" :D (And I do too)

Me too!!!! I think big, blue elephant.

I never knew that CCI allowed us to change our dogs names. The dog ALWAYS remains the same at CCI but we're allowed to change it, if we want to, at home. They asked me if I wanted to change his name because it's such a distraction to the public. I said; "look at this dog, seriously, he is Horton!" He is such an elephant in everything he does and this morning's caper, where he tried to run through a glass door literally shook our whole house!!!!!

He's a comic book character, a Dr. Suess pin-up, a Disney delight. He's "MY HORTON!"

[rangeley]

It's my Horty.......What a great picture! My friend, at work, bought me a stuffed Horton, who was greeting me on my chair, when I came back from Team Training.

I am so absolutely crazy about this dog, who tried to run through a sliding glass door this morning. He got so stunned that he wouldn't eat breakfast [shocking!] It took him a minute or two to gather his wits before he could even eat. Now he's back to normal. Gotta watch glass doors and Horton. :eek:



Omg Roz!! Poor Horty!! You are lucky he didn't knock himself out cold.

I never knew you could change the dogs name. That seems kinda kooky, the dog has had the name for 2 years. One of the dogs in our puppy class didn't make it and it became a search and rescue dog. I was told they HAD to change the name of the dog. If its not a CCI dog they have to change it? Maybe :confused:

Only a week or so til your cruise!!! You must be excited. I hope Horty does well. I have just put a cabin on hold for a cruise next Jan. Now I get to talk John into it. He was looking at it last night so he's interested. I tried to explain to him that we can throw money on it each month so we don't get slammed with the whole balance in the fall. He usually doesn't like to book til Aug. This way I can also get a cheap flight when they are posted. Plus it gives my son more time to come up with the money so maybe we don't have to end up paying for most of his trip. :eek: He has already given us 150. Thats his flight to Fla. Hahaha If he wants to get back home, he better give me some more. I also booked a suite :eek: They have this awesome bumpout suite we stayed in once before. Keep your fingers crossed that John gives in!!!! :D

[wizard-of-roz]

Omg Roz!! Poor Horty!! You are lucky he didn't knock himself out cold.

I never knew you could change the dogs name. That seems kinda kooky, the dog has had the name for 2 years. One of the dogs in our puppy class didn't make it and it became a search and rescue dog. I was told they HAD to change the name of the dog. If its not a CCI dog they have to change it? Maybe :confused:

Only a week or so til your cruise!!! You must be excited. I hope Horty does well. I have just put a cabin on hold for a cruise next Jan. Now I get to talk John into it. He was looking at it last night so he's interested. I tried to explain to him that we can throw money on it each month so we don't get slammed with the whole balance in the fall. He usually doesn't like to book til Aug. This way I can also get a cheap flight when they are posted. Plus it gives my son more time to come up with the money so maybe we don't have to end up paying for most of his trip. :eek: He has already given us 150. Thats his flight to Fla. Hahaha If he wants to get back home, he better give me some more. I also booked a suite :eek: They have this awesome bumpout suite we stayed in once before. Keep your fingers crossed that John gives in!!!! :D

Cindy, you're so smart to book early and pay some money each month. It makes the "pocket-book" shock so much less. I love having a cruise in my future. I'm starting to get more and more excited about mine next week.

Horty attended his first event this morning. He was pretty confused in the beginning and then slowly relaxed and realized that he was NOT there to entertain the 400 women in attendance. He's such a wonderful boy and wants to please.......he's just a slow learner!

And, with the names that CCI gives some of their dogs, I think changing it should be an option.

[rangeley]

Cindy, you're so smart to book early and pay some money each month. It makes the "pocket-book" shock so much less. I love having a cruise in my future. I'm starting to get more and more excited about mine next week.

Horty attended his first event this morning. He was pretty confused in the beginning and then slowly relaxed and realized that he was NOT there to entertain the 400 women in attendance. He's such a wonderful boy and wants to please.......he's just a slow learner!

And, with the names that CCI gives some of their dogs, I think changing it should be an option.


To Funny Roz!! He sounds even goofier that Wex. These dogs just think everyone is there for them.

Well I talked him into the cruise! WoooooHooooo Now we can pay alittle at a time.

[wizard-of-roz]

To Funny Roz!! He sounds even goofier that Wex. These dogs just think everyone is there for them.

Well I talked him into the cruise! WoooooHooooo Now we can pay alittle at a time.

Yay for Cindy, John & Wexie!!!!!!

[dobiemom]

I have been so busy at work and home that I haven't been able to read this thread. But before I leave on my cruise today (14 day Circle Hawaii :)) I wanted to say "Bon Voyage" to Horton, Roz, and your sisters-in-law! Hope Horton does as well as Miss Brenda and this is the first of many, many cruises! :D

[guitarest]

Hey Guys huge warning, its happening again...... Our dogs are dying or getting sick due to jerky treats sold in the US but made in China. It appears the dog food scare we had a few years ago was not enough now our beloved pets are dying by kidney failures due to Chicken Jerky treats. The CDC has issued a few warnings about these treats; I am so glad I stopped giving the puppies these treats a long time ago since I do not trust anything coming from that country since the first scare.

http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/toxic-treats-china-killing-us-dogs-pet-owners/story?id=15927579#.T2ShR9ngey0

[Rolls Royce Lover]

I have been so busy at work and home that I haven't been able to read this thread. But before I leave on my cruise today (14 day Circle Hawaii :)) I wanted to say "Bon Voyage" to Horton, Roz, and your sisters-in-law! Hope Horton does as well as Miss Brenda and this is the first of many, many cruises! :D

Marcia, you won't see this before you're amazing cruise to Hawaii but I wish you smooth sailing and a glorious 2 weeks on one of my very favorite ships. Please come back and tell us all about it!!!!!!!

Thank you so much for your good wishes for my cruise. Somehow, we always manage to be on the high seas at around the same time.

I've booked the Sapphire for October 6th, we'd love to cruise with you again!

Happy sailing dear Marcia.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hey Guys huge warning, its happening again...... Our dogs are dying or getting sick due to jerky treats sold in the US but made in China. It appears the dog food scare we had a few years ago was not enough now our beloved pets are dying by kidney failures due to Chicken Jerky treats. The CDC has issued a few warnings about these treats; I am so glad I stopped giving the puppies these treats a long time ago since I do not trust anything coming from that country since the first scare.

http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/toxic-treats-china-killing-us-dogs-pet-owners/story?id=15927579#.T2ShR9ngey0

Rice cakes. They're my treat of choice and Virbac Chews. NOTHING else!

[loveboat1977]

Hello everyone
I haven't posted in a while. Don't know if you remember us? My son Anthony has the little apricot poodle hearing dog named Honey. the last time I posted I think we were leaving for Venice to board the Star for the 30 day trans atlantic to Brazil and around Cape Horn and a couple of people asked me to post about how it all went with Honey. Well I have to tell you it was such a pleasure traveling in both Europe AND South America with a service dog. Italy was a breeze flying into and the certificate was only $37.00 from the USAD and not one penny more from any other country on the cruise. And Chile was such a pleasure flying home from. Love, love, love traveling in Europe with a service dog. After last year flying into Singapore to board the Diamond and it costing me almost $1000. in fees for Singapore it made this cruise so much better. We are booked on the Emerald this Oct from Canada and I understand we will have no problems but I am dreading our sailing to Tahiti out of LAX next March. I undertstand Tahiti is a nightmare. We may just not take Honey off the ship. Also we are one of the lucky ones who were able to book the new Royal Princess for next years 18 day maiden trans atlantic voyage. We are sooo happy to be going back to Europe where they love our little Honey.
Any questions about our experiences please feel free to contact me at
loveboat1977@gmail.com
Dee
Dee

[guitarest]

Sounds like loads of fun Dee....

[guitarest]

Picture posting time again. Here is a buddy of mine with his new dog Charon who is the newest K9 with the local PD. I am not afraid of German Shepherds but I do respect them even though thats all I have ever had. This dog actually scares me; my buddy has been a handler for 15 years now and they just retired his Belgian Malinois who is 12. This GSD is 4 and I was cool with him until my buddy told him about being bit by this dog already. So the dog got real close to me and for once in my life I think I peed a little............ lol Just something about those 38 scissor teeth and 4 k9 teeth being so close to your flesh....

This guys head is so large from all the bite work; even the local trainers do not enjoy being in a bite suit with this dog since he has the bite that would make a Pitbull proud. And yes thats my lil Mustang in the picture, with Blitz's name on the side of the door. Since Blitz goes everywhere with me.

http://pruconsultants.com/K91M.jpg

http://pruconsultants.com/k92M.jpg

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
But Jocko, you have to admit he is a handsome boy!

Roz: I am so excited for you and Mr. Horty going on his first cruise. The big goof! You will have you hands full. Hopefully he doesn't knock over a table in the dining room! :o

Cindy: I am so cruise envious right now. It has been since 2006 since we have gone. Far too long. I need to just get it together and start looking for one. Even I am a bit leery of Mexico, which we love. Hubby said look for Alaska in August, before Trav goes back to school. But closest to cruise from is Seattle and I would have to get him there, preferably not on a airplane (his choice) so even added more expense to an already pricey cruise. We shall see. I am such a tight wad! I have been looking at the Hawaii 14 dayers again. They are almost comparible in price to the Alaska cruise with air, plus its 7 days more! Thats sounds more apealing to me..........

[guitarest]

He sure is almost looks like Blitz's brother..... When Timbo gets a better had on Charon I will bring Blitz over to meet him. That dog would eat Blitz, me, Willie and Sarge and look for seconds...

[Latitude 20]

Bon Voyage Roz! I can't remember if you're going to Mexico or CA coastal but I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time either way! Hoping that Horton will be a champion and Ms. Brenny won't miss you too much.

[rangeley]

Mornin' all:
But Jocko, you have to admit he is a handsome boy!

Roz: I am so excited for you and Mr. Horty going on his first cruise. The big goof! You will have you hands full. Hopefully he doesn't knock over a table in the dining room! :o

Cindy: I am so cruise envious right now. It has been since 2006 since we have gone. Far too long. I need to just get it together and start looking for one. Even I am a bit leery of Mexico, which we love. Hubby said look for Alaska in August, before Trav goes back to school. But closest to cruise from is Seattle and I would have to get him there, preferably not on a airplane (his choice) so even added more expense to an already pricey cruise. We shall see. I am such a tight wad! I have been looking at the Hawaii 14 dayers again. They are almost comparible in price to the Alaska cruise with air, plus its 7 days more! Thats sounds more apealing to me..........


Nancy, I totally understand about hubby and the flying thing, since I am the same way. John is always bugging me to go west so we could cruise with Roz, but the thought of that long flight gives me the creeps. Maybe someday.

[wizard-of-roz]

Hello everyone
I haven't posted in a while. Don't know if you remember us? My son Anthony has the little apricot poodle hearing dog named Honey. the last time I posted I think we were leaving for Venice to board the Star for the 30 day trans atlantic to Brazil and around Cape Horn and a couple of people asked me to post about how it all went with Honey. Well I have to tell you it was such a pleasure traveling in both Europe AND South America with a service dog. Italy was a breeze flying into and the certificate was only $37.00 from the USAD and not one penny more from any other country on the cruise. And Chile was such a pleasure flying home from. Love, love, love traveling in Europe with a service dog. After last year flying into Singapore to board the Diamond and it costing me almost $1000. in fees for Singapore it made this cruise so much better. We are booked on the Emerald this Oct from Canada and I understand we will have no problems but I am dreading our sailing to Tahiti out of LAX next March. I undertstand Tahiti is a nightmare. We may just not take Honey off the ship. Also we are one of the lucky ones who were able to book the new Royal Princess for next years 18 day maiden trans atlantic voyage. We are sooo happy to be going back to Europe where they love our little Honey.
Any questions about our experiences please feel free to contact me at
loveboat1977@gmail.com
Dee
Dee

Dee, your travels makes the wordliest of travelers look dismal. It sounds like Anthony & Honey had an amazing time together and you encountered no problems.

Were you asked to do any extra titering or other testing prior to boarding? Did any countries give you any problems?

Your travels with Honey are so wonderful please give us more details. I know Honey is a smaller dog than I normally bring onboard but do you encounter any problems with the potty box and where is your favorite place to put it?

How long has Honey worked with your son?

Thanks so much for sharing your adventures. :)

[wizard-of-roz]

Picture posting time again. Here is a buddy of mine with his new dog Charon who is the newest K9 with the local PD. I am not afraid of German Shepherds but I do respect them even though thats all I have ever had. This dog actually scares me; my buddy has been a handler for 15 years now and they just retired his Belgian Malinois who is 12. This GSD is 4 and I was cool with him until my buddy told him about being bit by this dog already. So the dog got real close to me and for once in my life I think I peed a little............ lol Just something about those 38 scissor teeth and 4 k9 teeth being so close to your flesh....

This guys head is so large from all the bite work; even the local trainers do not enjoy being in a bite suit with this dog since he has the bite that would make a Pitbull proud. And yes thats my lil Mustang in the picture, with Blitz's name on the side of the door. Since Blitz goes everywhere with me.

http://pruconsultants.com/K91M.jpg

http://pruconsultants.com/k92M.jpg

Beautiful dog. Is Charon in active service or just used for training purposes?

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:
But Jocko, you have to admit he is a handsome boy!

Roz: I am so excited for you and Mr. Horty going on his first cruise. The big goof! You will have you hands full. Hopefully he doesn't knock over a table in the dining room! :o

Cindy: I am so cruise envious right now. It has been since 2006 since we have gone. Far too long. I need to just get it together and start looking for one. Even I am a bit leery of Mexico, which we love. Hubby said look for Alaska in August, before Trav goes back to school. But closest to cruise from is Seattle and I would have to get him there, preferably not on a airplane (his choice) so even added more expense to an already pricey cruise. We shall see. I am such a tight wad! I have been looking at the Hawaii 14 dayers again. They are almost comparible in price to the Alaska cruise with air, plus its 7 days more! Thats sounds more apealing to me..........


After our October 6th cruise, I, too, will be looking at an Hawaiian cruise, in 2013. What month's are you thinking about and what cruiseline would you take?

Thank you for your good wishes for Horty's and my cruise. I hate to leave Miss Brenny. I told her to take good care of herself and PaPa. I will miss her so much. Not having her by my side onboard a cruise will feel so strange and different. I will shed a few tears about it, I just know it! :(

[wizard-of-roz]

Bon Voyage Roz! I can't remember if you're going to Mexico or CA coastal but I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time either way! Hoping that Horton will be a champion and Ms. Brenny won't miss you too much.

Kathi, thank you so much. We're going to Santa Barbara/San Francisco/San Diego & Ensenada. My two sisters in law will be joining me and that should be a lot of fun.

I'll miss Brenda so much......that will be the toughest thing of all - To take pictures with Horton and not Brenny will feel so strange. I'm bonding with Horton but will NEVER forget to kiss Brenda when we leave the house each day.

I'm teaching Horton to show respect to Brenny!!!! He tends to push in front of her and grab things from her and although I think it's best to let them work-out their "stuff" [she'll give him a swift nudge or quick bark when she's had enough of his antic's!] I know when to step in and let him know he's "pushing" the envelope a little too far, this time!!!!! He can be a bit of a "bully" and he pushes his weight around.....I lay him down, giving him a belly rub and let her be the "top dog" and do all the sniffing and standing over him. I think he gets the point.

It's so obvious who Brenda is in our home. And, she knows I love Horton too! They're both treated with great respect and I expect the same in return.

I love them both so much!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Nancy, I totally understand about hubby and the flying thing, since I am the same way. John is always bugging me to go west so we could cruise with Roz, but the thought of that long flight gives me the creeps. Maybe someday.

Maybe, she said maybe!!!!! :D ;)

[Cru1s1ng2009]

Whenever I have a day like this where work is stressful and my kids are stressing me out, I like to look on this thread about service dogs. I do this because sometimes I enjoy my dogs more than I enjoy my kids and it is nice to look @ your doggie pictures and hear all of your wonderful stories. Cruises and dogs, what could be better? and please dont think I am downplaying anyones need for a SD, My DD is a paraplegic and is working on getting one.

I just REALLY enjoy this thread. Thanks for all the smiles guys!

[wizard-of-roz]

Whenever I have a day like this where work is stressful and my kids are stressing me out, I like to look on this thread about service dogs. I do this because sometimes I enjoy my dogs more than I enjoy my kids and it is nice to look @ your doggie pictures and hear all of your wonderful stories. Cruises and dogs, what could be better? and please dont think I am downplaying anyones need for a SD, My DD is a paraplegic and is working on getting one.

I just REALLY enjoy this thread. Thanks for all the smiles guys!

I'm so glad you took the time to write to us. I know there are lots and lots of folks who "lurk" and "look" at our lives and have so many questions about our dogs. I'm thrilled that you took the time to actually write-in and talk about yourself. Nancy did the very same thing and we adopted her!!!!

I wish I had had the need for "Brenda" in my life when my children were growing-up. Although, it would have been 3 more things on top of whatever else I had to do, I think the dog would have been a wonderful teacher to the children.

I hope your DD gets an amazing partner very soon. She'll get the assistance but you'll get all the "benefits" that the dog will bring to all of you.

Thank you for sharing with us and please come back and tell us how your daughter's journey is going.

[Cru1s1ng2009]

I'm so glad you took the time to write to us. I know there are lots and lots of folks who "lurk" and "look" at our lives and have so many questions about our dogs. I'm thrilled that you took the time to actually write-in and talk about yourself. Nancy did the very same thing and we adopted her!!!!

I wish I had had the need for "Brenda" in my life when my children were growing-up. Although, it would have been 3 more things on top of whatever else I had to do, I think the dog would have been a wonderful teacher to the children.

I hope your DD gets an amazing partner very soon. She'll get the assistance but you'll get all the "benefits" that the dog will bring to all of you.

Thank you for sharing with us and please come back and tell us how your daughter's journey is going.

i sure will guys. Thanks.

[guitarest]

Speaking of, haven't set date yet but coming to LA; Roz. Blitz and I should be there within the month. Hopefully since I am still waiting on a check from the VA; once it shows up a day later I am heading west.........

[wizard-of-roz]

Speaking of, haven't set date yet but coming to LA; Roz. Blitz and I should be there within the month. Hopefully since I am still waiting on a check from the VA; once it shows up a day later I am heading west.........

I'm cruising the week of March 26th. Write when you've picked a date.

[rangeley]

Maybe, she said maybe!!!!! :D ;)

Hahahaha don't get to excited.

[wizard-of-roz]

Hahahaha don't get to excited.

I won't, but I can hope can't I?

Wexie looks so much like Horton. They'd really have fun together.

I love coming home from work and watching Brenny get all excited to see Mr. "H". She'll bring him a toy and he'll throw it in the air and catch it [all in the hopes of entertaining Miss. "B"], if she could she'd giggle with joy. She bounces around and jumps back & forth in delight, it's the cutest thing in the world to watch. He definitely put a new "spring" in her step and I pray, given her more happy years with us!!!!!!

Who'd of thought what pleasure and pure happiness a goofy, long legged, black dog could bring to two aging old dogs. I mean Morey & Brenda, of course!!!!! ;):p

[guitarest]

I'm cruising the week of March 26th. Write when you've picked a date.

I could only wish it was that soon, I finally lost it today with HUD. They have been investigating the case which involves me and my former landlord which is a huge corp who wrongfully evicted me because Blitz is a German Shepherd. HUD has been saying for a year now all they need to do is have the case reviewed; today I got the same answer. I mean really what do they need? I fulfill the requirements of HUD and the ADA. I am disabled (100% Service connected), I have the paperwork for Blitz from the VA, and finally he does more than 3 tasks for me so I just dont understand what the problem is. The Corp offered 7,500 a few months ago to make me go away and I said no; then they offered 15k and I said yes since it had already been over a year and a half and I just want this to go away. After I signed the paperwork they no longer spoke with HUD or even cut a check; nothing. HUD even asked them to allow me to stay there during the investigation and they replied by evicting me. That caused the vascular sores and a knee injury; which is also highly documented.

Today I called a Mississippi Senator to get something happening or at the very least a status other than and I quote; "Your case is being reviewed. I cannot give you any more deals than this." The company they are investigating has around 25 different sites all very close to Military Bases and if they dont care about a DAV you know they could care less about anything else. When I asked about what happened to the settlement this was HUDS reply to me; it was the property management company through their attorneys who offered the settlement. The management company lawyers never sent me the signed agreement or followed up with an answer about the status of the conciliation after my repeated requests. So in two months it will be two years, and I am still waiting to be made whole again. From the injuries (which I still have a few vascular sores, to the financial drain of having to come up with new deposits and pay for people to help me move. Those expenses where not planned and I am still hurting from this since I make only so much each month from my disability. Yet that company is still doing business and making money every month while I came real close to being a homeless vet.

Sorry Venting again..........

[rangeley]

I could only wish it was that soon, I finally lost it today with HUD. They have been investigating the case which involves me and my former landlord which is a huge corp who wrongfully evicted me because Blitz is a German Shepherd. HUD has been saying for a year now all they need to do is have the case reviewed; today I got the same answer. I mean really what do they need? I fulfill the requirements of HUD and the ADA. I am disabled (100% Service connected), I have the paperwork for Blitz from the VA, and finally he does more than 3 tasks for me so I just dont understand what the problem is. The Corp offered 7,500 a few months ago to make me go away and I said no; then they offered 15k and I said yes since it had already been over a year and a half and I just want this to go away. After I signed the paperwork they no longer spoke with HUD or even cut a check; nothing. HUD even asked them to allow me to stay there during the investigation and they replied by evicting me. That caused the vascular sores and a knee injury; which is also highly documented.

Today I called a Mississippi Senator to get something happening or at the very least a status other than and I quote; "Your case is being reviewed. I cannot give you any more deals than this." The company they are investigating has around 25 different sites all very close to Military Bases and if they dont care about a DAV you know they could care less about anything else. When I asked about what happened to the settlement this was HUDS reply to me; it was the property management company through their attorneys who offered the settlement. The management company lawyers never sent me the signed agreement or followed up with an answer about the status of the conciliation after my repeated requests. So in two months it will be two years, and I am still waiting to be made whole again. From the injuries (which I still have a few vascular sores, to the financial drain of having to come up with new deposits and pay for people to help me move. Those expenses where not planned and I am still hurting from this since I make only so much each month from my disability. Yet that company is still doing business and making money every month while I came real close to being a homeless vet.

Sorry Venting again..........


Jacko, So sorry to hear about all your problems. Hopefully they will all work out. Please don't ever be sorry for venting, we all vent here. I have vented many times and everyone here has too. Thats why we are all friends here. I would be lost with all of you!

Cindy

[rangeley]

I won't, but I can hope can't I?

Wexie looks so much like Horton. They'd really have fun together.

I love coming home from work and watching Brenny get all excited to see Mr. "H". She'll bring him a toy and he'll throw it in the air and catch it [all in the hopes of entertaining Miss. "B"], if she could she'd giggle with joy. She bounces around and jumps back & forth in delight, it's the cutest thing in the world to watch. He definitely put a new "spring" in her step and I pray, given her more happy years with us!!!!!!

Who'd of thought what pleasure and pure happiness a goofy, long legged, black dog could bring to two aging old dogs. I mean Morey & Brenda, of course!!!!! ;):p


Roz, I love hearing about the dogs, they sound so much like Bailee and Wex were. The picture with the crossed paws is what we call Wexlers "signature position" thats how he likes to lay, paws crossed and his head on his bum. Wierdo!!

I think for this cruise we are going to have to go through alot of crap to get Wex on Grand Turk. They seem to have made their requirements ridiculous. I have written to them to find out what we really have to do. It seems they want a micro chip, titer, rabies within 30 days and the form signed by USDA which we have never done. Last time we went there we did not have to do any of that. We picked this trip cuz it was all Johns favorite places and was going to be easy. Guess not! :( I don't understand why they cannot let the vets put the USDA stamp on. We would have to drive like 2 hours away to get it, at an extra cost I'm sure.

Well today is going to be in the 80"s!!!!! This is the screwiest ( A word?) weather. By Saturday it's going to be back to 40's. Wex doesn't know to shed or not to shed. I mean he sheds all the time, but his winter coat, if he even got that. We had no snow or cold weather so that must screw the dogs up. I see Cali has had some wierd weather too. And all the tornados in the midwest is just downright scary. :eek:

Cindy

[guitarest]

Jacko, So sorry to hear about all your problems. Hopefully they will all work out. Please don't ever be sorry for venting, we all vent here. I have vented many times and everyone here has too. Thats why we are all friends here. I would be lost with all of you!

Cindy

Thanks Cindy: I have gone through so much in 20 years. From not being able to walk, to wheel chair's, crutches and finally using a cane on bad days. And while I know its in my best interest that I keep my mouth shut and let HUD do their thing I just cant understand why its taking so long.

[guitarest]

I love coming home from work and watching Brenny get all excited to see Mr. "H". She'll bring him a toy and he'll throw it in the air and catch it [all in the hopes of entertaining Miss. "B"], if she could she'd giggle with joy.

Roz when Blitz and I leave the other pups just look all destroyed since Blitz gets to leave with daddy. Now it does not matter how long I am gone; a quick ride to a fastfood place or for a few hours the reunion between the three dogs is as you describe it. Loads of fun and being excited.

[wizard-of-roz]

I could only wish it was that soon, I finally lost it today with HUD. They have been investigating the case which involves me and my former landlord which is a huge corp who wrongfully evicted me because Blitz is a German Shepherd. HUD has been saying for a year now all they need to do is have the case reviewed; today I got the same answer. I mean really what do they need? I fulfill the requirements of HUD and the ADA. I am disabled (100% Service connected), I have the paperwork for Blitz from the VA, and finally he does more than 3 tasks for me so I just dont understand what the problem is. The Corp offered 7,500 a few months ago to make me go away and I said no; then they offered 15k and I said yes since it had already been over a year and a half and I just want this to go away. After I signed the paperwork they no longer spoke with HUD or even cut a check; nothing. HUD even asked them to allow me to stay there during the investigation and they replied by evicting me. That caused the vascular sores and a knee injury; which is also highly documented.

Today I called a Mississippi Senator to get something happening or at the very least a status other than and I quote; "Your case is being reviewed. I cannot give you any more deals than this." The company they are investigating has around 25 different sites all very close to Military Bases and if they dont care about a DAV you know they could care less about anything else. When I asked about what happened to the settlement this was HUDS reply to me; it was the property management company through their attorneys who offered the settlement. The management company lawyers never sent me the signed agreement or followed up with an answer about the status of the conciliation after my repeated requests. So in two months it will be two years, and I am still waiting to be made whole again. From the injuries (which I still have a few vascular sores, to the financial drain of having to come up with new deposits and pay for people to help me move. Those expenses where not planned and I am still hurting from this since I make only so much each month from my disability. Yet that company is still doing business and making money every month while I came real close to being a homeless vet.

Sorry Venting again..........

I know it seems it will NEVER end........just remember it always rains before that beautiful rainbow comes out. You'll have your turn for the rainbow.

Take care.

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz, I love hearing about the dogs, they sound so much like Bailee and Wex were. The picture with the crossed paws is what we call Wexlers "signature position" thats how he likes to lay, paws crossed and his head on his bum. Wierdo!!

I think for this cruise we are going to have to go through alot of crap to get Wex on Grand Turk. They seem to have made their requirements ridiculous. I have written to them to find out what we really have to do. It seems they want a micro chip, titer, rabies within 30 days and the form signed by USDA which we have never done. Last time we went there we did not have to do any of that. We picked this trip cuz it was all Johns favorite places and was going to be easy. Guess not! :( I don't understand why they cannot let the vets put the USDA stamp on. We would have to drive like 2 hours away to get it, at an extra cost I'm sure.

Well today is going to be in the 80"s!!!!! This is the screwiest ( A word?) weather. By Saturday it's going to be back to 40's. Wex doesn't know to shed or not to shed. I mean he sheds all the time, but his winter coat, if he even got that. We had no snow or cold weather so that must screw the dogs up. I see Cali has had some wierd weather too. And all the tornados in the midwest is just downright scary. :eek:

Cindy

Those crossed legs drive me nuts and brings the biggest smile to my face. I love it!!!

We got Horton Micro chipped. With his personality, I wouldn't be surprised if one day he throws a bag over his shoulder and tries to run away. :p

If your Vet is a USDA approved Vet isn't his signature & paperwork enough? It's crazy making!!!!!

I swear the weather gods have absolutely no idea what they're doing. Everyone in my office is sick.......if they make me sick for this cruise I'm going to kill someone. First it's colder than the arctic, than it's so hot we have to turn the air on......and the flowers & trees; they don't know if they should remain dormant or start flowering!!!:(

[guitarest]

Crazy weather is here, not even a sweater this past winter. It was so warm that even the gnats and other bugs are out in full force already. Had to turn on the AC two days ago since it was 92 in the house. Today we have loads of wind and squalls coming off the beach and its supposed to be here for a few days.

[cjborne2]

Question for you veteran cruisers - which cruise line would you recommend? We have twice done the Disney cruise. My husband spoke with his parents and they are considering another cruise next summer but are not really interested in doing Disney again. By next year, it will be 11 of us traveling. 6 adults and 5 kids ranging from 12 to a one year old (he is not even with us yet - my nephew will arrive in May.)

Because of the foreign paperwork for the dog, I suggested maybe a cruise from NYC that goes north into Canada. (Well, really what I said first was go back to Alaska).

Before we research destinations, I wanted to find out your recommendations of cruise line.

[wizard-of-roz]

Question for you veteran cruisers - which cruise line would you recommend? We have twice done the Disney cruise. My husband spoke with his parents and they are considering another cruise next summer but are not really interested in doing Disney again. By next year, it will be 11 of us traveling. 6 adults and 5 kids ranging from 12 to a one year old (he is not even with us yet - my nephew will arrive in May.)

Because of the foreign paperwork for the dog, I suggested maybe a cruise from NYC that goes north into Canada. (Well, really what I said first was go back to Alaska).

Before we research destinations, I wanted to find out your recommendations of cruise line.

I HIGHLY recommend Princess - They're very accommodating - Allison Muff - Special Needs Dept. - 661-284-4521.

My second favorite Holland America - Special Needs - 800-426-0327

Happy planning.

[cjborne2]

Is Holland America appropriate for kids? My in-laws have been on that line a few times and have had good things to say about them.

[wizard-of-roz]

Is Holland America appropriate for kids? My in-laws have been on that line a few times and have had good things to say about them.

Holland America is a very classy line. They do have a kids program and a room filled with stuff for them to do, as well as lovely counselors. They don't have a rock climbing wall/fancy slides at the pool or an ice skating rink but they do have pools/gyms/ and a kids program.

[cjborne2]

The impression I had of Holland America was more "high class" but good to know they have kids' programs available. If we do something other than Disney, I'll ask them to explore Princess. Thanks for the guidance. Hope you have a wonderful trip!

[rangeley]

Holland America is a very classy line. They do have a kids program and a room filled with stuff for them to do, as well as lovely counselors. They don't have a rock climbing wall/fancy slides at the pool or an ice skating rink but they do have pools/gyms/ and a kids program.

Classy? Darn nobody told us!! And who would believe they let us cruise on this line!!!! :eek: It's especially classy when people stop and take pics of our dog peeing and pooping in the potty box. :eek: I don't think that HAL is the best for kids. They do have a kids club but the passengers seem to be older. I agree with Roz, Princess has that wonderful MUTS and who doesn't love the mind blowing sound of cartoon movies all day long. I have never cruised RCL but I would bet they have alot of things for kids. It seems they have alot of fun stuff.

A few years ago we met this couple on one of our cruises. Both of them are handicapped and noticed Wex so they came over to chat. We became friends and ended up sharing our cabana on Half Moon Cay with them and the friends they were travelling with. They were facinated with Wex and when they got home they decided to put in an application for a dog. They have waited a long time and we found out in May they are finally getting their dog! We are so excited for them. John emailed them and told them we are cruising in January and it would be great if they could cruise with us and the new dog. I hope they can go, it would be so fun to cruise with another dog, even if it's not Horty. ;) I can help them out with all the paperwork stuff, if I can figure it out myself. :confused:

Roz, I have a question.... the last cruise you took was the Golden Gate bridge cruise right? Are you taking that exact cruise 2 more times or are these next 2 cruises different??

Cindy

[guitarest]

Wow we had a rough ride last night; the weather came through and with the wind we lost power around 12:30; then it came back on and then flickered and went off again. I have back up air pumps that are battery operated for the three aquariums. I had three scared little babies all over me because the lighting was so bad. I was woke up around 4:30 by the dogs when Ms Power was outside restoring the power during this nasty weather. My front and back yards looked like lakes with whitecaps due to the strong winds. Glad its over finally....

[cjborne2]

My husband had to take a quick, unexpected trip to New Orleans. He flew into Houston Tuesday and dealt with the storms and got out of NOLA Wednesday before it came. I tried to call my in-laws yesterday afternoon and neither the house phone nor cell phone picked up.

My kids are well behaved and a bit older and I think they'd be OK on HAL. My nephews are younger (6, 2 1/2, and almost here) and are not "bad" but they are little boys, if you know what I mean. We might be better off looking at Princess or Royal Caribbean.

[wizard-of-roz]

Classy? Darn nobody told us!! And who would believe they let us cruise on this line!!!! :eek: It's especially classy when people stop and take pics of our dog peeing and pooping in the potty box. :eek: I don't think that HAL is the best for kids. They do have a kids club but the passengers seem to be older. I agree with Roz, Princess has that wonderful MUTS and who doesn't love the mind blowing sound of cartoon movies all day long. I have never cruised RCL but I would bet they have alot of things for kids. It seems they have alot of fun stuff.

A few years ago we met this couple on one of our cruises. Both of them are handicapped and noticed Wex so they came over to chat. We became friends and ended up sharing our cabana on Half Moon Cay with them and the friends they were travelling with. They were facinated with Wex and when they got home they decided to put in an application for a dog. They have waited a long time and we found out in May they are finally getting their dog! We are so excited for them. John emailed them and told them we are cruising in January and it would be great if they could cruise with us and the new dog. I hope they can go, it would be so fun to cruise with another dog, even if it's not Horty. ;) I can help them out with all the paperwork stuff, if I can figure it out myself. :confused:

Roz, I have a question.... the last cruise you took was the Golden Gate bridge cruise right? Are you taking that exact cruise 2 more times or are these next 2 cruises different??

Cindy

Cindy, it's so funny but we, too, have had people who wanted to follow Brenda and see her go potty and then want to take a picture.

HAL put her potty box on a deck that people also used for jogging so we always had an audience. I prefer the way Princess does it. They put the box in a stairwell, away from the maddening crowds but not away from the papparazzi who follow us.

I have not taken RCCL with Brenda so I can't speak about their Speical Access Dept. or the care that a Service Dog would get onboard.

How wonderful about the folks you met onboard. Did they get a CCI dog. You know how I feel about wanting to cruise with you guys.

Yes, we're doing the exact itinerary I did with Sunshine in September. Brenda was having little or nothing to do with tendering or even walking off the ship. I felt I was dragging her everywhere.

This trip, I will get to do a lot of the things I didn't get to do last time, although I had a wonderful cruise, I was pretty much stuck to the ship. Horton loves to walk and getting into a tender will be like getting into my car - No big deal! The cruise in October is two full days in San Francisco and a day in Catalina.

[cjborne2]

Another question for you. A friend approached me about cost of a service dog. She has a friend that was injured years ago in a motorcycle accident. He had been able to walk with the use of crutches but because it has been so long, he is having upper body issues and apparently has worsened to the point where he may benefit from a dog. I told her to look into CCI. I believe there is one in NY and CA.

How much does it cost to get a dog from CCI and could any of you share tips or contact info (or a weblink). Any other organizations you might recommend?

[wizard-of-roz]

Another question for you. A friend approached me about cost of a service dog. She has a friend that was injured years ago in a motorcycle accident. He had been able to walk with the use of crutches but because it has been so long, he is having upper body issues and apparently has worsened to the point where he may benefit from a dog. I told her to look into CCI. I believe there is one in NY and CA.

How much does it cost to get a dog from CCI and could any of you share tips or contact info (or a weblink). Any other organizations you might recommend?

The cost for the most wonderfully trained and amazing dog you will ever have is: ZERO - ZIP - ZILCH!!!!!! CCI does not charge for their dogs and the recipient will stay in one of their dorms, which is similar to college [on concrete!] I bring my own throw rugs because I hate the floors. CCI wil supply everything to you and will give you the opportunity to purchase more if you wish.

They only breed/puppy raise and train; Labrador Retrievers & Golden Retrievers or a cross of the two.

Wonderful donors like Dean Koontz & Charles Schulz Foundation, along with many, many others give millions of dollars to CCI so that they can provide these amazing heroes to people like me.

CCI can give you the names of lots of other organizations if they don't fit you.

Canine Companions for Independence - National Headquarters & Northwest Regional Center - P.O. Box 446, Santa Rosa, CA 95402 - 707.4771700 - Voice 707.577.1756 TTY.

[cjborne2]

Thanks. I've forwarded the info along. I didn't think it would cost much.

[rangeley]

Just to add to what Roz said...CCI.org is there website.

[DisneyKidsDad]

Classy? Darn nobody told us!! And who would believe they let us cruise on this line!!!! :eek: It's especially classy when people stop and take pics of our dog peeing and pooping in the potty box. :eek: I don't think that HAL is the best for kids. They do have a kids club but the passengers seem to be older. I agree with Roz, Princess has that wonderful MUTS and who doesn't love the mind blowing sound of cartoon movies all day long. I have never cruised RCL but I would bet they have alot of things for kids. It seems they have alot of fun stuff.

A few years ago we met this couple on one of our cruises. Both of them are handicapped and noticed Wex so they came over to chat. We became friends and ended up sharing our cabana on Half Moon Cay with them and the friends they were travelling with. They were facinated with Wex and when they got home they decided to put in an application for a dog. They have waited a long time and we found out in May they are finally getting their dog! We are so excited for them. John emailed them and told them we are cruising in January and it would be great if they could cruise with us and the new dog. I hope they can go, it would be so fun to cruise with another dog, even if it's not Horty. ;) I can help them out with all the paperwork stuff, if I can figure it out myself. :confused:

Roz, I have a question.... the last cruise you took was the Golden Gate bridge cruise right? Are you taking that exact cruise 2 more times or are these next 2 cruises different??

Cindy

Wex can cruise with Orson in Alaska, July 2013. :D

[rangeley]

Cindy, it's so funny but we, too, have had people who wanted to follow Brenda and see her go potty and then want to take a picture.

HAL put her potty box on a deck that people also used for jogging so we always had an audience. I prefer the way Princess does it. They put the box in a stairwell, away from the maddening crowds but not away from the papparazzi who follow us.

I have not taken RCCL with Brenda so I can't speak about their Speical Access Dept. or the care that a Service Dog would get onboard.

How wonderful about the folks you met onboard. Did they get a CCI dog. You know how I feel about wanting to cruise with you guys.

Yes, we're doing the exact itinerary I did with Sunshine in September. Brenda was having little or nothing to do with tendering or even walking off the ship. I felt I was dragging her everywhere.

This trip, I will get to do a lot of the things I didn't get to do last time, although I had a wonderful cruise, I was pretty much stuck to the ship. Horton loves to walk and getting into a tender will be like getting into my car - No big deal! The cruise in October is two full days in San Francisco and a day in Catalina.

He is getting a dog from CCI (fingers crossed). Our friends did try another org before CCI but I think they only put out 1 or 2 dogs a year and he wasn't chosen. Hal usually puts the potty box on the promenade deck forward. It's perfect for us cuz a stairwell would not work for John. On Celebrity they put the box down a crew hallway on the promenade deck. It barely fit John's wheelchair and was a windtunnel. Some nights we could barely walk down it because the wind was really that strong. Not a good spot.

Is your cruise in Sept the same thing too? Brenny had enough, she just wants to relax! Horty should be nice and peppy for you.

[rangeley]

Wex can cruise with Orson in Alaska, July 2013. :D


Would love to do that too, but that means flying across the country.

[DisneyKidsDad]

Would love to do that too, but that means flying across the country.

You don't have to flap your arms or anything. :D All you got to do is sit and relax, read a book, play games, have a drink and take a nap. ;)

[wizard-of-roz]

He is getting a dog from CCI (fingers crossed). Our friends did try another org before CCI but I think they only put out 1 or 2 dogs a year and he wasn't chosen. Hal usually puts the potty box on the promenade deck forward. It's perfect for us cuz a stairwell would not work for John. On Celebrity they put the box down a crew hallway on the promenade deck. It barely fit John's wheelchair and was a windtunnel. Some nights we could barely walk down it because the wind was really that strong. Not a good spot.

Is your cruise in Sept the same thing too? Brenny had enough, she just wants to relax! Horty should be nice and peppy for you.

Cindy, we cruised last Sept. [with Sunshine], I barely left the ship.

I'm cruising this weekend and plan on enjoying every port and again on October 6th because I haven't been to Catalina in a hundred years and who doesn't love 2 days in San Fran. This weekend is with two Sister's in Law and October with my lover. ;)

[rangeley]

Cindy, we cruised last Sept. [with Sunshine], I barely left the ship.

I'm cruising this weekend and plan on enjoying every port and again on October 6th because I haven't been to Catalina in a hundred years and who doesn't love 2 days in San Fran. This weekend is with two Sister's in Law and October with my lover. ;)

Lover? Hmmm wonder who that could be.

[wizard-of-roz]

Lover? Hmmm wonder who that could be.

Don't you just love that word "lover!"

[guitarest]

What a day today, a new addition to the family arrived today. Logan Angle @ 6lbs and 11oz born to my son Michael and his wife Sharleen. My daughter came down and spent the day with me also and treated me to not only lunch but dinner; and I got to watch her German Shepherd today. Her name is Dia and she is one year old on Saturday and is a solid 60lbs and looks so small next to Blitz with his 96lbs. We stayed inside all day unless the pups needed to relieve themselves. Blitz had such a fun time with Dia since I fostered Dia for a few weeks until my daughter could take the puppy. So Dia is a wonderful dog but high spirited would be a description for her. She is like a 5 year old on a candy bar diet and she is either 1000mph or napping. So it still rained a bit today so I have a lake in the front yard still and one in the back. I put the boys in the back yard (Blitz, Sarge and Willie) and they do what they need to do then come inside. I put Dia out front and after she went to the little girls room she ran for "Lake Front Yard". OMG this dog is nothing but full of life. I finally got her and cleaned her up and the boys came back in as clean as they were before going outside. Here are Dia and Blitz after going outside. Guess who had more fun.....

Logan
http://pruconsultants.com/Picture.jpg


Dia
http://pruconsultants.com/dia032012.jpg

Dia wearing her Daddy's hat who is a Lt in the US Army and is currently learning how to fly Helicopters. She looks better dry
http://pruconsultants.com/diahat.jpg

Blitz, wow just realized Blitz will be two years old on June 6; where has the time gone?
http://pruconsultants.com/blitz032012.jpg

[rangeley]

What a day today, a new addition to the family arrived today. Logan Angle @ 6lbs and 11oz born to my son Michael and his wife Sharleen. My daughter came down and spent the day with me also and treated me to not only lunch but dinner; and I got to watch her German Shepherd today. Her name is Dia and she is one year old on Saturday and is a solid 60lbs and looks so small next to Blitz with his 96lbs. We stayed inside all day unless the pups needed to relieve themselves. Blitz had such a fun time with Dia since I fostered Dia for a few weeks until my daughter could take the puppy. So Dia is a wonderful dog but high spirited would be a description for her. She is like a 5 year old on a candy bar diet and she is either 1000mph or napping. So it still rained a bit today so I have a lake in the front yard still and one in the back. I put the boys in the back yard (Blitz, Sarge and Willie) and they do what they need to do then come inside. I put Dia out front and after she went to the little girls room she ran for "Lake Front Yard". OMG this dog is nothing but full of life. I finally got her and cleaned her up and the boys came back in as clean as they were before going outside. Here are Dia and Blitz after going outside. Guess who had more fun.....

Logan
http://pruconsultants.com/Picture.jpg


Dia
http://pruconsultants.com/dia032012.jpg

Dia wearing her Daddy's hat who is a Lt in the US Army and is currently learning how to fly Helicopters. She looks better dry
http://pruconsultants.com/diahat.jpg

Blitz, wow just realized Blitz will be two years old on June 6; where has the time gone?
http://pruconsultants.com/blitz032012.jpg


Congrats!!!!!!!

[rangeley]

Don't you just love that word "lover!"

I actually call Wex lover. It's one of my nicknames for him.

[rangeley]

Roz, Have an awesome cruise!!! We will be right here to hear all about it when you return. Can't wait to hear how Horty does. Have great weather and be safe!

Cindy

[Latitude 20]

What a day today, a new addition to the family arrived today. Logan Angle @ 6lbs and 11oz born to my son Michael and his wife Sharleen. My daughter came down and spent the day with me also and treated me to not only lunch but dinner; and I got to watch her German Shepherd today. Her name is Dia and she is one year old on Saturday and is a solid 60lbs and looks so small next to Blitz with his 96lbs. We stayed inside all day unless the pups needed to relieve themselves. Blitz had such a fun time with Dia since I fostered Dia for a few weeks until my daughter could take the puppy. So Dia is a wonderful dog but high spirited would be a description for her. She is like a 5 year old on a candy bar diet and she is either 1000mph or napping. So it still rained a bit today so I have a lake in the front yard still and one in the back. I put the boys in the back yard (Blitz, Sarge and Willie) and they do what they need to do then come inside. I put Dia out front and after she went to the little girls room she ran for "Lake Front Yard". OMG this dog is nothing but full of life. I finally got her and cleaned her up and the boys came back in as clean as they were before going outside. Here are Dia and Blitz after going outside. Guess who had more fun.....


Congratulations Grandpa Jocko! What a wonderful ending to your not-so-great week. I can't remember--do you have other grandchildren or is this your first?

Leo and I are (im)patiently awaiting our second grandchild in October. Grandson Zachary is almost six now and insists he will be getting a little brother while the rest of us are hoping for a girl.

Happy weekend to all and Bon Voyage once again to Roz and Master Horton!

Kathi

[guitarest]

Congratulations Grandpa Jocko! What a wonderful ending to your not-so-great week. I can't remember--do you have other grandchildren or is this your first?

Leo and I are (im)patiently awaiting our second grandchild in October. Grandson Zachary is almost six now and insists he will be getting a little brother while the rest of us are hoping for a girl.

Happy weekend to all and Bon Voyage once again to Roz and Master Horton!

Kathi

Kathi; this is number two grandchild. Number one is already 8 years old and heading to forth grade.

[sunshine426]

Cooler is doing well at training camp. She has matched up with a potential recepeint and I hear she is doing "great". I'll keep everyone posted. She is 22 months old now. Very smart and confident. Fingers and paws crossed.

[guitarest]

Just thought this was cool; actually its a great song about God spelled backwards is Dog

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H17edn_RZoY

[guitarest]

Today I was at a mission for the Patriot Guard; we where honoring the first annual Medal of Honor day as approved by congress. So I have become a attraction every time Blitz and I show up because of the fact of him being such a beautiful dog. So many came over to say hi to us (mainly Blitz).

So while we were chatting the we were asked to hold up the flag line since it was windy today so Blitz and I went out there to hold a flag. Now talk about being confused; I was Army also but most of my time was Air Force, I was wearing a US Army shirt to show my support for my son in law and holding a US Marine Flag... Blitz sat next to me for about 15 minutes and I could tell he was getting bored but he dealt with it; then he did something embarrassing but quite funny. I felt his head rub against my left foot I looked down and he was laying down on his back with all legs up in the air. Now we were at the VA Cemetery for this event and there is my dog looking like he is dead.

After the event a man came up to me and asked if he could hug Blitz; I told him yes; and he did. After he was finished he shaked my hand and was very emotional. He began to tell me that he was a Military Dog Handler in Vietnam with the US Army Rangers and Blitz looked very much like his dog. That got me somewhat emotional; what a great club the Patriot Guard is.

Blitz and I today.
http://pruconsultants.com/pgr_BandI.jpg

[Latitude 20]

Cooler is doing well at training camp. She has matched up with a potential recepeint and I hear she is doing "great". I'll keep everyone posted. She is 22 months old now. Very smart and confident. Fingers and paws crossed.

Good girl Cooler! I'm sure she'll do fantastic with all of her training from Mama Sunshine!

[Latitude 20]

In case anyone wants to follow along on Roz and Horton's cruise, "Flourpot" is doing a "live from" over on the Princess board:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1600924.

Looks like they had a bumpy day in Santa Barbara today.

[rangeley]

Cooler is doing well at training camp. She has matched up with a potential recepeint and I hear she is doing "great". I'll keep everyone posted. She is 22 months old now. Very smart and confident. Fingers and paws crossed.

We always knew she was destined for greatness! :D

[rangeley]

Today I was at a mission for the Patriot Guard; we where honoring the first annual Medal of Honor day as approved by congress. So I have become a attraction every time Blitz and I show up because of the fact of him being such a beautiful dog. So many came over to say hi to us (mainly Blitz).

So while we were chatting the we were asked to hold up the flag line since it was windy today so Blitz and I went out there to hold a flag. Now talk about being confused; I was Army also but most of my time was Air Force, I was wearing a US Army shirt to show my support for my son in law and holding a US Marine Flag... Blitz sat next to me for about 15 minutes and I could tell he was getting bored but he dealt with it; then he did something embarrassing but quite funny. I felt his head rub against my left foot I looked down and he was laying down on his back with all legs up in the air. Now we were at the VA Cemetery for this event and there is my dog looking like he is dead.

After the event a man came up to me and asked if he could hug Blitz; I told him yes; and he did. After he was finished he shaked my hand and was very emotional. He began to tell me that he was a Military Dog Handler in Vietnam with the US Army Rangers and Blitz looked very much like his dog. That got me somewhat emotional; what a great club the Patriot Guard is.

Blitz and I today.
http://pruconsultants.com/pgr_BandI.jpg


Jacko, Don't you sometimes feel invisible when you are with the dog? No one ever says hi to us, it's always the dog. We are used to it by now.

What a wonderful and emotional day you must have had. I think it's great that you show your support. As far as the upside down thing with Blitz, to funny! Wex practically lives on his back he's such a belly rub freak. Luckily he has not done it at a cemetery yet!!

[guitarest]

I luv those photo's of Wex, they say when a dog does that it shows the ultimate trust he has for his master by exposing his soft underside.

Yeah Blitz is all into belly rubs for sure. Whats funny is all my dogs are defective in one way or another. I was pulled aside by the breeder before picking up Blitz as a puppy and the breeder told me that Blitz has a birth defect. So I was like really; I'm thinking some thing bad or even may become life threatening in a few years. So she was telling me she would deduct money from Blitz and then showed me his defect. Blitz has a outtie belly button. Its so cute and I felt like that scene in Marley and Me where they picked up their own Blue Light special discounted puppy. I saw that defect and knew right away he was the special dog sent to me by God. We have been a fantastic team since then. I by some of my supplies from Ray Allen K9 Equipment (rayallen.com) and today they asked if they could have my permission to use a picture of Blitz on their website or catalog. Of course I told them yes...

Yup my cute defective puppy going to be in a catalog (hopefully)

[rangeley]

I luv those photo's of Wex, they say when a dog does that it shows the ultimate trust he has for his master by exposing his soft underside.

Yeah Blitz is all into belly rubs for sure. Whats funny is all my dogs are defective in one way or another. I was pulled aside by the breeder before picking up Blitz as a puppy and the breeder told me that Blitz has a birth defect. So I was like really; I'm thinking some thing bad or even may become life threatening in a few years. So she was telling me she would deduct money from Blitz and then showed me his defect. Blitz has a outtie belly button. Its so cute and I felt like that scene in Marley and Me where they picked up their own Blue Light special discounted puppy. I saw that defect and knew right away he was the special dog sent to me by God. We have been a fantastic team since then. I by some of my supplies from Ray Allen K9 Equipment (rayallen.com) and today they asked if they could have my permission to use a picture of Blitz on their website or catalog. Of course I told them yes...

Yup my cute defective puppy going to be in a catalog (hopefully)


Yeah Blitz! He's going to be famous!

[sunshine426]

Camp is going well for Cooler. Her trainer says she is bonding well with her recepeint and that the love is shared both ways. "They adore her". Cooler is learning to take commands from a communication devise. She is picking it up quickly. Her recepeint is a young woman who is non verbal and a quadraplegic. I only hope Cooler can't pull over a power chair!!!

[guitarest]

Camp is going well for Cooler. Her trainer says she is bonding well with her recepeint and that the love is shared both ways. "They adore her". Cooler is learning to take commands from a communication devise. She is picking it up quickly. Her recepeint is a young woman who is non verbal and a quadraplegic. I only hope Cooler can't pull over a power chair!!!

Thanks for the update; I logged in just to see how things are going....

[sunshine426]

My second foster has graduated and is on her way to sunny California!! Cooler has a wonderful recepeint and I had only tears of joy last night at her graduation.:D:D

[celle]

My second foster has graduated and is on her way to sunny California!! Cooler has a wonderful recepeint and I had only tears of joy last night at her graduation.:D:D

That's terrific. You've done a wonderful job! You must be so proud of "your" Cooler.

Will you be having another dog to train (to love and care for)?

Celle

[sunshine426]

I've been working with another foster along with Cooler. I'll miss her, but it will be nice not to have to try to balance two dogs. Mackey is almost a year old. He is starting to master his advanced commands and loves to be around children. He is a golden retriever and sooooooooo sweet. I think that I will be able to follow Cooler's progress as her recepeint is active in disability awareness. Will see.

[rangeley]

My second foster has graduated and is on her way to sunny California!! Cooler has a wonderful recepeint and I had only tears of joy last night at her graduation.:D:D


Way to go Sunshine and Cooler!!!! Another one gone off to California. What a coincidence both went to CA. I can't go to a graduation without crying. We will wait for Mackey next.

[guitarest]

So what did everyone do for their weekend? My daughter took time out today away from school and her husband and decided to spend it with me. We went to the creek since it was like 80, or at least felt like it....

This is Blitz sitting and her shepherd doing the fancy sit; and my daughter in pink.

http://pruconsultants.com/1medblitz.jpg

Blitz and Dia; Dia has the toy

http://pruconsultants.com/0medblitz.jpg

[dobiemom]

After our October 6th cruise, I, too, will be looking at an Hawaiian cruise, in 2013. What month's are you thinking about and what cruiseline would you take?
Roz, I am looking at a Cruise Critic 15-day cruise to Hawaii on the Carnival Miracle Oct. 19, 2013. Maybe we'll sail together again?

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hi Everyone, we're home!!! We got home yesterday and had to entertain family last night so I couldn't write. All day today I was putting things away, cleaning and you know what happens when you're not home....so much to do when you get back.

First, congratulations to Guitarist on your newest grandson and to Sunshine on the Graduation of Cooler.

I love all the pictures.

I have to tell anyone who's questioning getting onboard the "new" Sapphire.....do it...do it....do it!!! She's absolutely gorgeous!

It took 30 minutes to board; we then dropped our bags, went to Horizon Court for lunch and then toured the Sapphire.

Of course, this was after Horton decided his fear of a new environment meant he would run out of the cabin, down the hall and head for the elevator. I have no idea what triggered his "fear & flight" response, other than the open cabin door. I have learned that calling his name or chasing him serves no purpose. Stay calm, walk slow, and grab his collar. In my head I wanted to strangle him but I knew that the other passengers would be doubting his certification if I acted badly myself.

I could only attribute his response to; first cruise, strange environment, lots of strangers, his youth and high spirit-thank God he NEVER did it again and, I'm finding out more and more about my boy and how he responds to new things.

My sister-in-laws Debi & Judi were going with me and I was surprised by my niece Michelle who came on with Judi. The four of us had a wonderful time. We joined the Princess Pop Choir and had a blast singing with about 15 other brave folks, in the Piazza at the end of the cruise.

Horton was such a gentleman and behaved so beautifully the rest of the cruise. If I was alone and asked him to sit by my chair, while I got up, I only had to use a simple command of "stay" and he would watch me but would not budge an inch [of course, I did tether the leash but he didn't know it!]

I only had one woman the entire cruise who said, "I'm not getting in the elevator with a dog!" My sister-in-law started to make a comment and I told her not to. It's amazing how defensive we want to be but must stay quiet because, honestly, some folks are scared to death of dogs and some are allergic or just don't like our fur partners. I'll never understand it but it's a reality.

I had no problems with Horton's paperwork getting onboard [Princess Access Dept. had sent the registration desk a copy that I had fax'd them and all was good.] We were asked to meet the Agricultural Inspector of Mexico when we docked in Ensenada, at 7:30am, in Vivaldi Restaurant. He inspected the paperwork, he examined Horton's fur, skin, eyes and paws. He asked me to give him a few commands; "stand", "sit", "down" and, we were excused.

Cindy, we took beautiful pictures of Horton on formal nights, in his tux that you sent him. I thought about you when I put it on him. Thank you, again.

We got off the ship at every dock, even though it rained and the tender was pitching and swaying, it didn't even phase big Horty, he loved it! I'm so glad that he loves the sea as much as I do.

For those of you who wonder about Mexico and strays. We saw absolutely none in Ensenada, at all.

Going under the Golden Gate Bridge was as big a thrill this time as it was the first time. It's so worth it to go up to deck 15 and watch it. It's breath taking!!!! And, it was cold and rainy but who cared!

The crew was outstanding and the food was some of the best I've ever had on any cruise. We ate dinners in the International Dining Room [early seating 5:30pm] and had other meals in practically every other venue daily. I have no complaints.

I missed you guys and hope that you each have a cruise in your future!!!!

[DisneyKidsDad]

Welcome back Roz & Horton! Glad everything went well for you guys. Can't wait to see some pictures.

[rangeley]

Welcome Back Roz!!! :D Sounds like you had a great time. It's funny what makes these dog freak out sometimes. For Wex it was the noise of a city bus and he pulled John out of the chair. I think that was the second day we had him. I can just picture you chasing after Horty. I'm glad everything went well after that.

While I understand about people being scared and allergic, some are just ridiculous in their actions.

When we went to Mexico, I had to bring Wex down every port so they could see him. They barely even looked at him, nevermind touch him. All they cared about was his paperwork. And they had complaints about that but never made us stay onboard. Honduras was the only place that wanted money which is a ripoff in my opinion. 30 bucks for him to walk around the port? No thanks.

I hope I am going to see some of these pics of Horty in his tux.:confused:

How did Brenny do for the week? How was the reunion between the two when you got home?

Glad you had a great cruise!!!

Cindy

[guitarest]

Hi Everyone, we're home!!!

Sounds like a great time....

[wizard-of-roz]

I want you to know that I've tried to download pictures three times.......NOTHING happens. I'm so backwards when it comes to putting pictures anywhere but in a frame or in my wallet......please forgive me guys!!!! I'm trying!

A short story about Horton's Happenings!!!!! I told him I would feed him dinner and then I got very busy at my desk, at work. He came up to me, while I was standing, poked me very hard in the back of my leg, I turned around and he was sitting with his leash in his mouth, eyes very wide and a sorryful, pleading look on his face and made me smile so big!!!!! He would have picked-up my chair and put it in his mouth, if he could. He was saying, "mom, mom, look I'm doing something useful....now will you feed me?"

He just wanted my attention and to remind me that I had promised him dinner 1/2 hour ago!!!!! I love this dog and his amazing personality!

[sunshine426]

Seriously Roz, you need to feed this boy!!! Does Aunty Sunshine need to come visit...please.....

Looking forward to hearing the details. So proud of "Cooler". She is living in Pasadena now. Another California Dog for me.:D

[wizard-of-roz]

Seriously Roz, you need to feed this boy!!! Does Aunty Sunshine need to come visit...please.....

Looking forward to hearing the details. So proud of "Cooler". She is living in Pasadena now. Another California Dog for me.:D

I know, I know! And, I wish you would come out here!

Pasadena is a really neat area of Los Angeles. I'm sure if you had anything to do with the upbringing of this dog she'll be perfect for her person.

[arhillbilly]

I have just booked my first Transatlantic cruise....I am beyond excited!!! Leaves New Orleans on April 15 arrives in Barcelona on April 28. I did go ahead and request the wheelchair for embarkation and debarkation...just so that I don't hold up people trying to get on or off the ship.....I go back to the heart dr in July and if my heart hasn't regulated by then, could be facing more surgery....but until then, I intend to live my life every day doing what I want to do....

[wizard-of-roz]

I have just booked my first Transatlantic cruise....I am beyond excited!!! Leaves New Orleans on April 15 arrives in Barcelona on April 28. I did go ahead and request the wheelchair for embarkation and debarkation...just so that I don't hold up people trying to get on or off the ship.....I go back to the heart dr in July and if my heart hasn't regulated by then, could be facing more surgery....but until then, I intend to live my life every day doing what I want to do....

Wow! How exciting, it sounds like a great cruise! Take care of yourself you have lots of good times ahead filled with cruising and fun.

[sunshine426]

Woo Hoo!!! Just booked a 17 night cruise on the Coral Princess. Pretty excited.

[wizard-of-roz]

Woo Hoo!!! Just booked a 17 night cruise on the Coral Princess. Pretty excited.

Another congratulations to you Sunshine. When & where? Sounds wonderful!

How's your daughter's wedding coming along?

[sunshine426]

Vancouver to FLL via the Panama Canal!

Wedding in 22 days.

[wizard-of-roz]

Vancouver to FLL via the Panama Canal!

Wedding in 22 days.

Congratulations, again. This is so exciting!

[rangeley]

Congrats to all cruisers! :D

[guitarest]

Well I just placed my first dog with a 100% DAV and I feel great. It took a while to get the paperwork together and make sure the landlord understands his rights under the law. But I feel great.....

This picyure is Blitz after a long day out with his new harness

[wizard-of-roz]

Well I just placed my first dog with a 100% DAV and I feel great. It took a while to get the paperwork together and make sure the landlord understands his rights under the law. But I feel great.....

This picyure is Blitz after a long day out with his new harness

What do you mean "placed" and explain DAV.

[guitarest]

Found a breeder willing to work with my national organization (SAV) by placing a dog into a program through us to be used as a service animal for a veteran who is 100% Disabled Veteran

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Found a breeder willing to work with my national organization (SAV) by placing a dog into a program through us to be used as a service animal for a veteran who is 100% Disabled Veteran

Great work.....thank you for what you're doing. A dog can make such a positive and motivating factor in the life of a wounded soldier, as you well know. :)

[Valentine's Mom]

Hello everyone

I just wanted to let everyone know about our Easter miricle here in Virginia Beach. Yesterday around noon a navy fighter jet came crashing down into an apartment. Building. There was massive damage to the complex but the miricle is no one was killed or even hurt very badly. When the pilot was found all he could say is I'm sorry Ihit your apartment. Both pilots are fine and I think 4 other people were treated and released.

I know a lot of people lost a lot of stuff but I have to ffeel that GOD sent us an EASTER miricle with no loss of life.

The jets fly low enough to see the pilots eye Colorado.:eek:

[dobiemom]

Hello everyone

I just wanted to let everyone know about our Easter miricle here in Virginia Beach. Yesterday around noon a navy fighter jet came crashing down into an apartment. Building. There was massive damage to the complex but the miricle is no one was killed or even hurt very badly. When the pilot was found all he could say is I'm sorry Ihit your apartment. Both pilots are fine and I think 4 other people were treated and released.

I know a lot of people lost a lot of stuff but I have to ffeel that GOD sent us an EASTER miricle with no loss of life.

The jets fly low enough to see the pilots eye Colorado.:eek:
Praise the Lord!

Happy Passover and Happy Easter to all!

[guitarest]

I second that, it was a miracle for sure. The student pilot and the instructor pilot both stayed with the aircraft long as possible prior to punching out. When I was at K I Sawyer AFB we had a B52 blowup and it broke windows everywhere on base. The plane was scattered all over the runway after doing a touch and go; and no one was seriously killed either. Says allot about the training our armed forces pilots receive.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hello everyone

I just wanted to let everyone know about our Easter miricle here in Virginia Beach. Yesterday around noon a navy fighter jet came crashing down into an apartment. Building. There was massive damage to the complex but the miricle is no one was killed or even hurt very badly. When the pilot was found all he could say is I'm sorry Ihit your apartment. Both pilots are fine and I think 4 other people were treated and released.

I know a lot of people lost a lot of stuff but I have to ffeel that GOD sent us an EASTER miricle with no loss of life.

The jets fly low enough to see the pilots eye Colorado.:eek:


OMG! It was all over our news here in Los Angeles. We're so glad that there was no loss of life. It must be so scary to watch these planes fly overhead, so low.....everyone must be very grateful that everyone was spared. Of course, if you live in the apartment building without any insurance, you're not feeling so lucky.

We wish everyone a joyous and loving holiday time.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Praise the Lord!

Happy Passover and Happy Easter to all!

Marcia, I hope your Hawaii cruise was as wonderful as my coastal.

Remember, Sapphire Princess with Roz & Horty on October 6th.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Happy holidays to all!

[guitarest]

Its Grand Baby time......

http://pruconsultants.com/gbabiesm.jpg

[wizard-of-roz]

Its Grand Baby time......

http://pruconsultants.com/gbabiesm.jpg

Wonderful......look at that little boys "macho pants!" So cute! Congratulations! Enjoy them....they tend to grow-up even faster than our children did, for some reason!!!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Did I tell you guys how easy-peasy the meeting between the Agricultural inspectors/Immigration and Horton went on my last cruise?

I can't stress to you enough how important it is to have ALL your paperwork together to speed-up the process.

We met in Vivaldi Dining room at 7:30am, the morning that we docked in Ensenada - [I fed Horton his breakfast and went down.]

There were two Immigration officials/4 folks from the Agricultural Dept. of Mexico and 2 crew members [talk about over-kill], seriously, was all this really necessary? They were in full uniform, with guns and all!

One Immigration person asked to see Horton's "original paperwork", another asked to see a copy. They took the paperwork over to a table, where they all sat around and examined every page. One person said, "this is the most complete paperwork I have ever witnessed!" Another person came over and asked me to give Horton a few commands. I aked him to "sit", "stand", "lay down" and "shake." The same officer ran his hands down Horton's body, around his tail and picked-up each leg while examining his paws and spreading his toes to look between each one. He then went back to the table, wrote something on his paperwork and returned all of mine to me and excused me.

This was the most thorough exam I've ever been through before entering Mexico.

[guitarest]

Did I tell you guys how easy-peasy the meeting between the Agricultural inspectors/Immigration and Horton went on my last cruise?

I can't stress to you enough how important it is to have ALL your paperwork together to speed-up the process.

We met in Vivaldi Dining room at 7:30am, the morning that we docked in Ensenada - [I fed Horton his breakfast and went down.]

There were two Immigration officials/4 folks from the Agricultural Dept. of Mexico and 2 crew members [talk about over-kill], seriously, was all this really necessary? They were in full uniform, with guns and all!

One Immigration person asked to see Horton's "original paperwork", another asked to see a copy. They took the paperwork over to a table, where they all sat around and examined every page. One person said, "this is the most complete paperwork I have ever witnessed!" Another person came over and asked me to give Horton a few commands. I aked him to "sit", "stand", "lay down" and "shake." The same officer ran his hands down Horton's body, around his tail and picked-up each leg while examining his paws and spreading his toes to look between each one. He then went back to the table, wrote something on his paperwork and returned all of mine to me and excused me.

This was the most thorough exam I've ever been through before entering Mexico.

You RAWK for sure.....

I am hoping the end of my tunnel will be very soon and I will be able to afford my first cruise with Blitz.... And I had another great day today at VA. I had been fighting with my doctor for the past two months and I finally petitioned the VA to give me a different doctor and this time I have a Internal Medicine Doc and one of the top ranked docs at my VA Hospital. I brought up many issues with the local VA and we does the doctor actually cross the line when trying to reduce or totally remove certain meds without the approval of the patient. I found out I was a topic for discussion in the morning briefings..... lol I also met with the Director of Voluntary Services and we spoke about getting emotional support dogs to the veterans who have PTSD and I also met with the Director of Mental Health (he used to be my doctor since I'm bonafide crazy..... lol)

[wizard-of-roz]

You RAWK for sure.....

I am hoping the end of my tunnel will be very soon and I will be able to afford my first cruise with Blitz.... And I had another great day today at VA. I had been fighting with my doctor for the past two months and I finally petitioned the VA to give me a different doctor and this time I have a Internal Medicine Doc and one of the top ranked docs at my VA Hospital. I brought up many issues with the local VA and we does the doctor actually cross the line when trying to reduce or totally remove certain meds without the approval of the patient. I found out I was a topic for discussion in the morning briefings..... lol I also met with the Director of Voluntary Services and we spoke about getting emotional support dogs to the veterans who have PTSD and I also met with the Director of Mental Health (he used to be my doctor since I'm bonafide crazy..... lol)

Hey, crazy man, looks like pushing that huge snowball uphill may be paying off soon.....I hope so for you.

And, remember, "Emotional Support" dogs DO NOT HAVE PUBLIC ACCESS! This means they can not go cruising or into the public venue. Although, they MUST be allowed to live in an apartment that does NOT normally allow pets and are the true "feel good" dog for many, they must stay at home to do what they do best. They also may get "rights" to visit patients in hospitals and hospice, also a very important task.

I am, in no way, dismissing their importance to many who find their assistance invaluable.

[guitarest]

I am, in no way, dismissing their importance to many who find their assistance invaluable.


Oh I know that and that's part of what I have to explain to those in the program. I guess in one way I am happy Blitz is way more than a emotional support family member.

And while keeping on the subject of GSD's just thought I would post this picture.....

http://i.chzbgr.com/imagestore/2012/4/8/9550658e-3e00-46db-822c-6c674c043bf5.jpg

[wizard-of-roz]

Oh I know that and that's part of what I have to explain to those in the program. I guess in one way I am happy Blitz is way more than a emotional support family member.

And while keeping on the subject of GSD's just thought I would post this picture.....

http://i.chzbgr.com/imagestore/2012/4/8/9550658e-3e00-46db-822c-6c674c043bf5.jpg

Oh! No! It's the Easter Shepherd!

[rangeley]

Its Grand Baby time......

http://pruconsultants.com/gbabiesm.jpg

How cute!! You must be so proud.

[rangeley]

Did I tell you guys how easy-peasy the meeting between the Agricultural inspectors/Immigration and Horton went on my last cruise?

I can't stress to you enough how important it is to have ALL your paperwork together to speed-up the process.

We met in Vivaldi Dining room at 7:30am, the morning that we docked in Ensenada - [I fed Horton his breakfast and went down.]

There were two Immigration officials/4 folks from the Agricultural Dept. of Mexico and 2 crew members [talk about over-kill], seriously, was all this really necessary? They were in full uniform, with guns and all!

One Immigration person asked to see Horton's "original paperwork", another asked to see a copy. They took the paperwork over to a table, where they all sat around and examined every page. One person said, "this is the most complete paperwork I have ever witnessed!" Another person came over and asked me to give Horton a few commands. I aked him to "sit", "stand", "lay down" and "shake." The same officer ran his hands down Horton's body, around his tail and picked-up each leg while examining his paws and spreading his toes to look between each one. He then went back to the table, wrote something on his paperwork and returned all of mine to me and excused me.

This was the most thorough exam I've ever been through before entering Mexico.


On our cruise I had to bring Wex down everyday. The amount of people there was ridiculous! We had atleast 4 crew members and atleast 4 or 6 from the port we stopped in. My experience was alittle different. They did throughly examine the paperwork, but never even looked at the dog. I mean barely even glanced at him. One port did complain that his rabies wasn't given before we went , but they let that go. I was very uncomfortable sitting there it was kinda creepy. No one smiled or said hello.

[wizard-of-roz]

On our cruise I had to bring Wex down everyday. The amount of people there was ridiculous! We had atleast 4 crew members and atleast 4 or 6 from the port we stopped in. My experience was alittle different. They did throughly examine the paperwork, but never even looked at the dog. I mean barely even glanced at him. One port did complain that his rabies wasn't given before we went , but they let that go. I was very uncomfortable sitting there it was kinda creepy. No one smiled or said hello.

Seriously "creepy!" Sometimes it's very difficult to stand "tall" with your dog.

Because I work every day and Horton is part of my working day, there are complications and questions about my dog that would be easier to deal with if I just stayed home and hid away from society.

[Valentine's Mom]

Oh I know that and that's part of what I have to explain to those in the program. I guess in one way I am happy Blitz is way more than a emotional support family member.

And while keeping on the subject of GSD's just thought I would post this picture.....

http://i.chzbgr.com/imagestore/2012/4/8/9550658e-3e00-46db-822c-6c674c043bf5.jpg

That is the cutest picture! I recognise Blitz but who is the pomp?

[DisneyKidsDad]

So did Blitz start with the ears like everyone does with their Easter bunnies? :eek:

[wizard-of-roz]

I have to share something with you guys......So, I'm boarding the Sapphire Princess with my lovely SIL Debi and we're wisked off to another room where the Platinum and Elite passengers wait. Soon a woman comes over and wants to pet Horton, I say "yes" of course and she proceeds to point to an elderly gentleman and a ****zu [dog] sitting on the next ailes from us. She invites me over to meet her husband and "his" seizure/medical alert dog, who is wearing a vest reading "Service Dog" on it.

Horton is calm and by my side and the ****zu starts barking/yapping/whining and growling at Horton. The woman says, "I'm so sorry, she was attacked by a bigger dog once and is very skiddish!" I walked away with Horton.

Later on during the cruise we encountered the woman holding the dog on several occasions and when we got to talking she told me that she had had a nervous breakdown and suffered with agoraphobia and panic attacks.

Now, between you and me, who was that dog really on the cruise with and for? And, who wrote the medical letter stating that it was an "alert" dog for her husband who didn't seem to have any control over the dog at all and, was seen with the woman more than with him?? Very strange!

[guitarest]

Horton is calm and by my side and the ****zu starts barking/yapping/whining and growling at Horton. The woman says, "I'm so sorry, she was attacked by a bigger dog once and is very skiddish!" I walked



Yet again you stand proud and its amazing how well you handle those situations. I would have said something yet your so proper and standing proud with Horton. Whats a funny spin from your story is the word zapper edited part of the dog breed name.....

On a funny side my daughter stopped by today with her shepherd and left the dog and took off shopping. So I am now ready to release to the world my training secrets with Blitz. Notice the connection between Blitz and Dia and teenagers who are glued to the TV...... lol

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GN_grlmqSas

[guitarest]

Sorry while I thank you for the connection since that is a great looking shepherd; its not Blitz.....

http://pruconsultants.com/blitz2.jpg

[sunshine426]

Trust Disney Dad to give me my first laugh of the day! Ears indeed. Love all the pictures with Blitz and assorted german shepherds. They are handsome dogs.

I am two weeks away from wedding bells and no nervous breakdowns from anyone yet. Planning an exciting cruise in September...Vancouver to San Francisco to FLL via the panama canal. Who wants to join Aunty Sunshine and her handsome fella for this trip!!!

On a doggy note: Cooler is doing well. She and her recepeint had a great bonding experience during training camp. She described her as the "blonde tornado of engergy" and it was such an apt description. And not to worry about her service dog behaviour. That was what surprized her recepeint, she would go from "tornado dog" to incredibly calm and well mannered when tethered to her wheelchair and out in public. Even took her to a very narrow tea shop. I know what shop she was talking about and I can tell you I never braved that one with the "tornado". Rock Star indeed.

Mackey is doing well. I had him home last weekend and he kept Rich and myself amused for hours.

[rangeley]

I have to share something with you guys......So, I'm boarding the Sapphire Princess with my lovely SIL Debi and we're wisked off to another room where the Platinum and Elite passengers wait. Soon a woman comes over and wants to pet Horton, I say "yes" of course and she proceeds to point to an elderly gentleman and a ****zu [dog] sitting on the next ailes from us. She invites me over to meet her husband and "his" seizure/medical alert dog, who is wearing a vest reading "Service Dog" on it.

Horton is calm and by my side and the ****zu starts barking/yapping/whining and growling at Horton. The woman says, "I'm so sorry, she was attacked by a bigger dog once and is very skiddish!" I walked away with Horton.

Later on during the cruise we encountered the woman holding the dog on several occasions and when we got to talking she told me that she had had a nervous breakdown and suffered with agoraphobia and panic attacks.

Now, between you and me, who was that dog really on the cruise with and for? And, who wrote the medical letter stating that it was an "alert" dog for her husband who didn't seem to have any control over the dog at all and, was seen with the woman more than with him?? Very strange!



Yet another reason for a federal service dog registry! :mad:

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Yet another reason for a federal service dog registry! :mad:

I wish the IAADP would push this.

[celle]

Yet another reason for a federal service dog registry! :mad:

I agree that a federal service dog registry might help.

But, not everyone who has a service dog lives in the US. Not all people who cruise with a service dog come from the US.

If it became a requirement for all service dogs to be registered on this federal register, what will happen about people from other countries who wish to cruise with their service dog?

I think your idea is good, and it would weed out the fake service dogs, but it is too exclusive.

This is a particular soapbox of mine - the fact that most people on CC come from the USA makes the slant of the boards very US-centric. CC is an international web site, so please don't forget those of us who are not from the USA.

Stepping down from my soapbox now. Thank you for listening. :)

[guitarest]

I agree about some sort of standardization or database. My paperwork did come from the VA for Blitz and that means he is in my permanent VA record both medically and in the VA Claim file. Blitz is also registered with the local southern counties in S Mississippi since I do go to the beach maybe once a year since its very difficult for me to get across the sand. With Blitz's new harness he is able to better assist me in stability although its illegal to have dogs on the beach. I approached the local counties and found out who to talk with about the beach and then I forwarded his paperwork to those departments so all the Beach Patrol has to do is contact the Beach Supervisor and my paperwork is there already.

I do have a question for everyone here, understand this I am not attempting to cause problems but would like to know the best way to address this issue and compromise with the other party and resolve this situation. First back ground information; I have a few hours each week I would like to volunteer at a local "governmental office of public safety". I am not going to mention their name for now. I contacted the volunteer coordinator and I always notify any one I am working with or prior to visiting them about Blitz. My main reason is because he is a rather large GSD; and some people react differently with him around. I am just being polite in giving the heads up. Well this "local office of public safety" did something that really surprised me and I am wondering if they actually know what they did. While talking to the Department Manager this person said no pats allowed while I was working for them even if it was volunteer. I then told her I could understand the rules of no pets at work; although Blitz is not a pet and I offered to provide the paperwork from the VA. This individual then said it does not matter no pets at work; I again reminded this person Blitz is not a pet; Blitz is a service animal. The manager then again said no although if I wanted to volunteer without Blitz they would love to have me help them.

So here is my position I would love to help these people and it would allow me to get out of the house at least a day a week if not more. While the ADA is very specific how do I approach this with out "burning" a bridge and making enemies? I could come in with paperwork and lawyers and force the issue but it would make for a very uneasy situation. Any thoughts?

[guitarest]

Hey Roz, check your email sent ya a email.....

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hey Roz, check your email sent ya a email.....

I read it and it sounds like a wonderful opportunity, I hope it works out for you!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

I do have a question for everyone here, understand this I am not attempting to cause problems but would like to know the best way to address this issue and compromise with the other party and resolve this situation. First back ground information; I have a few hours each week I would like to volunteer at a local "governmental office of public safety". I am not going to mention their name for now. I contacted the volunteer coordinator and I always notify any one I am working with or prior to visiting them about Blitz. My main reason is because he is a rather large GSD; and some people react differently with him around. I am just being polite in giving the heads up. Well this "local office of public safety" did something that really surprised me and I am wondering if they actually know what they did. While talking to the Department Manager this person said no pats allowed while I was working for them even if it was volunteer. I then told her I could understand the rules of no pets at work; although Blitz is not a pet and I offered to provide the paperwork from the VA. This individual then said it does not matter no pets at work; I again reminded this person Blitz is not a pet; Blitz is a service animal. The manager then again said no although if I wanted to volunteer without Blitz they would love to have me help them.

So here is my position I would love to help these people and it would allow me to get out of the house at least a day a week if not more. While the ADA is very specific how do I approach this with out "burning" a bridge and making enemies? I could come in with paperwork and lawyers and force the issue but it would make for a very uneasy situation. Any thoughts?

Please print-out the ADA Laws [from their website] as it pertains to Service Dogs and their admittance into buildings where the public is invited, as mandated by the DOJ [Federal Gov.] and just hand it to this "government office" where you want to volunteer; you won't have to say much but do make it clear that Blitz is a fully trained Service Dog and goes where you go to mitigate your physical health issues. There's no discussion about it. It's a done deal.....you're a team!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Just stopping by to say Hi, so Hi! :D

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Mornin' all:
Just stopping by to say Hi, so Hi! :D

Hi, sweet lady. I hope all is well with you and the weather has not caused any damage for you.

We have a big leak in the corner of my office....considering my entire office will be moving before the end of June, and our building will be under reconstruction, I don't suppose there will be too much worry about the leak.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Sunshine, good luck with all the wedding plans......you're just weeks away now.

Also, I'm so sorry to hear about your knee. I hope you heal enough to look gorgeous on your daughter's big day!

Take care of yourself and know that I'm thinking about you.

[cjborne2]

Hello all! We just returned from a "land" trip to Walt Disney World. I wanted to share this picture of Ollie and my husband on Dumbo. Just look at that dog's face!
I think the picture is going to be huge. Sorry about that if it is.
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w167/cjborne2/IMG_2590.jpg

[guitarest]

Now that is one happy four legged family member.....

[guitarest]

http://pruconsultants.com/everysnack.jpg

[guitarest]

Hope you don't mind, I loved this picture although it's exposure is a little off and dark so I lightened it up a little...

http://pruconsultants.com/happydog.jpg

[Valentine's Mom]

[SIZE="4"][/SIZE

Did Ollie like the ride? I think Valentine would be vomiting. Looks like loads of fun. Would like to try it!


:)

[guitarest]

I don't know how Blitz would take this. While I would hope that he would sit next to me until the ride is finished I am unsure he would.

[cjborne2]

He LOVED it! The picture is dark but I think it came out pretty good considering I was in the dumbo in front of them and taking the picture over my shoulder and not really knowing what kind of shot I was getting. Fantasyland is under an expansion and you can see the second Dumbo ride being built in the picture too.

Ollie also really liked the Indy cars. My daughter was in front of them and I was behind. They made it around the track just fine. He is also great with the characters. I like that the characters ask if they can say hi to him.

[wizard-of-roz]

I love the picture of Ollie, and that handsome "hunk" of yours. Thanks so much for sharing it with us. It's so cute!

I'm not so sure Horton would fit on any rides with his "two-mile" legs!

I love that Ollie is treated just like one of the humans and that Disney is so wonderful about recognizing the importance of the Service Dog!

[wizard-of-roz]

Horton and I went to a family event at my niece's house this past Sunday and my niece asked if she could introduce her dog, a Pit Bull/Lab mix, named Dexter to Horton. I quizzed her on her dog's behavior and asked her to put a leash on him first. I had a leash on Horty and stood by as she walked her dog over to Horty and Dexter promptly growled and grabbed Horty's face. She pulled him back and upon first examination of Horty I saw nothing and asked her to put him back outside.

Later, when I was placing Horton into my car and the sun was shining on his face I noticed a cut under his left eye........I was mortified. I went home, washed his wound and put some anti-bacterial cream on it. It's not really deep but it's obvious that the dog's teeth did cut into his flesh, grab some fur and leave a scratch.

I will NEVER allow Dexter near Horton again and will be seeing this same niece at a Baby Shower this weekend - Do I say anything to her or just drop it? It didn't feel right from the beginning and I have only myself to blame for it.......I really have to learn to trust my instincts and I should have said "no" from the beginning! A live and learn moment!!!!

Brenda came to me with many nicks and scratches on her [the woman who she first went home with would run into her with her wheel chair] which left my Brenny with lots of scars on her elbows. Horton has absolutely not one scratch on him, his fur is pristeen and to think that he'll have a scar on his face because I was stupid makes me feel terrible!

[Latitude 20]

Horton and I went to a family event at my niece's house this past Sunday and my niece asked if she could introduce her dog, a Pit Bull/Lab mix, named Dexter to Horton. I quizzed her on her dog's behavior and asked her to put a leash on him first. I had a leash on Horty and stood by as she walked her dog over to Horty and Dexter promptly growled and grabbed Horty's face. She pulled him back and upon first examination of Horty I saw nothing and asked her to put him back outside.

Later, when I was placing Horton into my car and the sun was shining on his face I noticed a cut under his left eye........I was mortified. I went home, washed his wound and put some anti-bacterial cream on it. It's not really deep but it's obvious that the dog's teeth did cut into his flesh, grab some fur and leave a scratch.

I will NEVER allow Dexter near Horton again and will be seeing this same niece at a Baby Shower this weekend - Do I say anything to her or just drop it? It didn't feel right from the beginning and I have only myself to blame for it.......I really have to learn to trust my instincts and I should have said "no" from the beginning! A live and learn moment!!!!

Brenda came to me with many nicks and scratches on her [the woman who she first went home with would run into her with her wheel chair] which left my Brenny with lots of scars on her elbows. Horton has absolutely not one scratch on him, his fur is pristeen and to think that he'll have a scar on his face because I was stupid makes me feel terrible!

Roz,

I feel for you but please don't be too hard on yourself or your niece. She asked before introducing the two dogs and you were right to ask that they both be leashed. It didn't work out well but no one was seriously injured.

Think of it as like when you were raising your kids--having to decide the right balance between protecting them and allowing them to live in the real world where disappointment, nicks and scratches are a part of life. Heck, we've all got our scratches and dents and that's what makes us unique.

I don't know your niece but I'm guessing she feels terrible about what happened. If it was me, I'd acknowledge what happened when you see her this weekend. Something along the lines of "I wish it had worked out better when Horton and Dexter met and we should obviously keep them apart from now on but I appreciate that you asked me before introducing them and I'm glad no one was seriously hurt." Depending on how well you get along with your niece, some recommendations for socialization classes for Dexter might be helpful.

Kathi

[guitarest]

ROZ I feel so bad for you, dont take it too hard. You had no idea nor did your niece that this was going to happen. Mr Horton should come out of this OK if its a little scratch and I agree about not letting the two dogs meet again. Maybe you can help your niece with socialization of her dog?

I feel so bad that this happened to ya....

A small update about the local gvt agency and Blitz. I sent a non-confrontational email to the woman and her boss and on Tuesday I received a phone call from the director of the office. I told him again I wasn't looking for any special favors or even looking to run to a lawyer since my rights were abused. So many run straight to a attorney in this area looking to turn a misunderstanding into a cash cow. They asked me to apply and offered to meet with both Blitz and I when we drop off the paperwork. This man (and their attorney on the same call) could not have thanked me any more times than what they did for my service to this country etc.... I was really happy with the out come of this situation and they both admitted it was a learning experience to the department also since I was the first to volunteer and having a disability. Thanks again for letting me vent here......

Another Update, I spoke with HUD today and they are hoping to have my investigation resolved on Friday with the Apartment Corp that illegally evicted me because Blitz was a "dangerous breed" and that was more important than the ADA. Now this assumption that the GSD was a dangerous breed was not scientifically supported nor does the AKC support that list. Also not even to today has Blitz even shown teeth to any human or animal except for a casual gnat or fly.

[rangeley]

I agree that a federal service dog registry might help.

But, not everyone who has a service dog lives in the US. Not all people who cruise with a service dog come from the US.

If it became a requirement for all service dogs to be registered on this federal register, what will happen about people from other countries who wish to cruise with their service dog?

I think your idea is good, and it would weed out the fake service dogs, but it is too exclusive.

This is a particular soapbox of mine - the fact that most people on CC come from the USA makes the slant of the boards very US-centric. CC is an international web site, so please don't forget those of us who are not from the USA.

Stepping down from my soapbox now. Thank you for listening. :)


I meant it for the US, but every country should have a registry. I'm sure other places have the same problems as we do here.

[rangeley]

Hello all! We just returned from a "land" trip to Walt Disney World. I wanted to share this picture of Ollie and my husband on Dumbo. Just look at that dog's face!
I think the picture is going to be huge. Sorry about that if it is.
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w167/cjborne2/IMG_2590.jpg

Cool pic! I don't know how you got that dog to do that.

[rangeley]

http://pruconsultants.com/everysnack.jpg


Absolutely love this!!!!

[rangeley]

Horton and I went to a family event at my niece's house this past Sunday and my niece asked if she could introduce her dog, a Pit Bull/Lab mix, named Dexter to Horton. I quizzed her on her dog's behavior and asked her to put a leash on him first. I had a leash on Horty and stood by as she walked her dog over to Horty and Dexter promptly growled and grabbed Horty's face. She pulled him back and upon first examination of Horty I saw nothing and asked her to put him back outside.

Later, when I was placing Horton into my car and the sun was shining on his face I noticed a cut under his left eye........I was mortified. I went home, washed his wound and put some anti-bacterial cream on it. It's not really deep but it's obvious that the dog's teeth did cut into his flesh, grab some fur and leave a scratch.

I will NEVER allow Dexter near Horton again and will be seeing this same niece at a Baby Shower this weekend - Do I say anything to her or just drop it? It didn't feel right from the beginning and I have only myself to blame for it.......I really have to learn to trust my instincts and I should have said "no" from the beginning! A live and learn moment!!!!

Brenda came to me with many nicks and scratches on her [the woman who she first went home with would run into her with her wheel chair] which left my Brenny with lots of scars on her elbows. Horton has absolutely not one scratch on him, his fur is pristeen and to think that he'll have a scar on his face because I was stupid makes me feel terrible!

OMG Roz, How aweful! Did she say that the dog was ok with other dogs? It probably wasn't the first time the dog has been aggressive. Poor Horty. I would say something to her, just try to say it nice if you can. :D

[rangeley]

Today we are selling dog cookies at Fenway Park (Boston Red Sox in case you didn't know). It's the 100th anniversary of the park. They are having an open house for the public today. We will be working with the girl scouts. Hope we will get a tour of the park and meet some players. Tomorrow we will be doing the same and will get to see the Sox-Yankee game after. GO SOX!!!!

[Algebralovr]

Hello, I've tried to wade through the over 360 pages of posts here and wow! There is so much info and I'm having a hard time finding what I need. I'm hoping that some of you can direct me to where I can have the info I need.

I own rental property and some LL's and I were having a discussion about service animals. I found a faq about them (http://www.ada.gov/qasrvc.htm) but that doesn't address my question.

Recently, the question was raised about emotional support animals. Now, I understand that a fully trained service animal is allowed into a rental with no question, that I'm not allowed to charge an additional fee (although I am allowed to inspect the property for damage regularly and to bill for any damage caused by the animal, but that is true of people with children as well). I also understand that while I cannot ask the nature of the person's disability, I am allowed to ask what kind of support the animal provides.

I also understand that while there are organizations that train animals, not all individuals with service animals get their assistants from these organizations and that some people actually train their animals themselves.

This is where the questions arise. Is a puppy (and I specifically mean a young dog) that is not yet trained, and may not even be housebroken (!) considered a service animal, even an emotional support animal? If the human claims it is a service animal in training, does that person/animal have the same rights as a human/animal pair who are fully trained?

In general, I allow small pets that are generally caged and well trained dogs into my property. When I am asked about dogs, I always ask for the age of the dog, and I want them to be at least 2 years old. I ask for vet info and proof that the local license has been paid, and I ask to meet the dog. Good responsible pet owners never argue, give me the info I ask for, bring the dog along to meet me and they invite me over to their place. I love those tenants and I often keep them for years at a time.

I have an issue right now, however, where some kind of case manager is arguing that an animal is a service animal. It is an emotional support dog in this case. In fact, the dog is a puppy, not yet trained and violates all my usual rules. When I asked for something from a physician it was refused.

Can anyone point me toward some documentation?

I appreciate that dogs can be a great support for some of you, but this guy is giving SDs a bad name.

Roz, you seem very knowledgeable and passionate about SA and I'm hoping you or someone else can provide me some links.

Sorry this is off topic about cruising, but it looked like there were a lot of non-cruise posts in this thread. :)

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz,

I feel for you but please don't be too hard on yourself or your niece. She asked before introducing the two dogs and you were right to ask that they both be leashed. It didn't work out well but no one was seriously injured.

Think of it as like when you were raising your kids--having to decide the right balance between protecting them and allowing them to live in the real world where disappointment, nicks and scratches are a part of life. Heck, we've all got our scratches and dents and that's what makes us unique.

I don't know your niece but I'm guessing she feels terrible about what happened. If it was me, I'd acknowledge what happened when you see her this weekend. Something along the lines of "I wish it had worked out better when Horton and Dexter met and we should obviously keep them apart from now on but I appreciate that you asked me before introducing them and I'm glad no one was seriously hurt." Depending on how well you get along with your niece, some recommendations for socialization classes for Dexter might be helpful.

Kathi

Kathi, ALWAYS the voice of reason.

I definitely will suggest that Michlle get Dexter some "socialization" lessons. It was an accident and again I should have responded "no" to her request for their meeting beause I really didn't know her dog well and obviously, neither did she!

Thanks for your welcoming input!

[wizard-of-roz]

ROZ I feel so bad for you, dont take it too hard. You had no idea nor did your niece that this was going to happen. Mr Horton should come out of this OK if its a little scratch and I agree about not letting the two dogs meet again. Maybe you can help your niece with socialization of her dog?

I feel so bad that this happened to ya....

A small update about the local gvt agency and Blitz. I sent a non-confrontational email to the woman and her boss and on Tuesday I received a phone call from the director of the office. I told him again I wasn't looking for any special favors or even looking to run to a lawyer since my rights were abused. So many run straight to a attorney in this area looking to turn a misunderstanding into a cash cow. They asked me to apply and offered to meet with both Blitz and I when we drop off the paperwork. This man (and their attorney on the same call) could not have thanked me any more times than what they did for my service to this country etc.... I was really happy with the out come of this situation and they both admitted it was a learning experience to the department also since I was the first to volunteer and having a disability. Thanks again for letting me vent here......

Another Update, I spoke with HUD today and they are hoping to have my investigation resolved on Friday with the Apartment Corp that illegally evicted me because Blitz was a "dangerous breed" and that was more important than the ADA. Now this assumption that the GSD was a dangerous breed was not scientifically supported nor does the AKC support that list. Also not even to today has Blitz even shown teeth to any human or animal except for a casual gnat or fly.

I'm so glad that your life is coming together so well for you.

[wizard-of-roz]

Cool pic! I don't know how you got that dog to do that.

Okay, Cindy, doesn't this picture look like John? At first I thought it was him.

[wizard-of-roz]

OMG Roz, How aweful! Did she say that the dog was ok with other dogs? It probably wasn't the first time the dog has been aggressive. Poor Horty. I would say something to her, just try to say it nice if you can. :D

I promise this will NEVER happen again. I learned my lesson!

I am going to say something, in a very nice way because I do want to keep a relationship with Michelle, dispite her dumb dog!!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Today we are selling dog cookies at Fenway Park (Boston Red Sox in case you didn't know). It's the 100th anniversary of the park. They are having an open house for the public today. We will be working with the girl scouts. Hope we will get a tour of the park and meet some players. Tomorrow we will be doing the same and will get to see the Sox-Yankee game after. GO SOX!!!!

I live way over here in L.A. and I've always loved the White Sox....they're a class act! I agree - GO SOX!!!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Hello, I've tried to wade through the over 360 pages of posts here and wow! There is so much info and I'm having a hard time finding what I need. I'm hoping that some of you can direct me to where I can have the info I need.

I own rental property and some LL's and I were having a discussion about service animals. I found a faq about them (http://www.ada.gov/qasrvc.htm) but that doesn't address my question.

Recently, the question was raised about emotional support animals. Now, I understand that a fully trained service animal is allowed into a rental with no question, that I'm not allowed to charge an additional fee (although I am allowed to inspect the property for damage regularly and to bill for any damage caused by the animal, but that is true of people with children as well). I also understand that while I cannot ask the nature of the person's disability, I am allowed to ask what kind of support the animal provides.

I also understand that while there are organizations that train animals, not all individuals with service animals get their assistants from these organizations and that some people actually train their animals themselves.

This is where the questions arise. Is a puppy (and I specifically mean a young dog) that is not yet trained, and may not even be housebroken (!) considered a service animal, even an emotional support animal? If the human claims it is a service animal in training, does that person/animal have the same rights as a human/animal pair who are fully trained?

In general, I allow small pets that are generally caged and well trained dogs into my property. When I am asked about dogs, I always ask for the age of the dog, and I want them to be at least 2 years old. I ask for vet info and proof that the local license has been paid, and I ask to meet the dog. Good responsible pet owners never argue, give me the info I ask for, bring the dog along to meet me and they invite me over to their place. I love those tenants and I often keep them for years at a time.

I have an issue right now, however, where some kind of case manager is arguing that an animal is a service animal. It is an emotional support dog in this case. In fact, the dog is a puppy, not yet trained and violates all my usual rules. When I asked for something from a physician it was refused.

Can anyone point me toward some documentation?

I appreciate that dogs can be a great support for some of you, but this guy is giving SDs a bad name.

Roz, you seem very knowledgeable and passionate about SA and I'm hoping you or someone else can provide me some links.

Sorry this is off topic about cruising, but it looked like there were a lot of non-cruise posts in this thread. :)

I suggest you defer to the IAADP 888-54-IAADP - www.iaadp.org (http://www.iaadp.org).

They are a wonderful org. with all the information about SD laws/Puppies in Training and regulations regarding them.

I'm pretty sure you DO NOT have to allow a "Puppy-in-training" into your rental. Puppies in training do not have the same rights and are not covered under the ADA. Although, most business's will allow them in as long as they're wearing they're cape, are under good control and are acting appropriately. They don't have to if the handler is acting irresponsibly [that holds true for all SD's and their handler's.]

Emotional Support dogs have the right to live in a rental apartment/home and are covered under the ADA but do not have the right to go into the public venue.

The laws are complicated and can be confusing. That said, if you have a tenant who refuses to give you paperwork from their doctor/training org. stating that their dog is an Emtional Support dog/Hearing or Service Dog then you may refuse them rental status.

You're clear on what you may ask the prospective tenant and it seems that you are more than fair about it. I always lean on the side of the Service Dog owner in their effort to gain entrance into society [especially when they've dotted all their "i's" and crossed all their "t's."] But, when someone is acting secretive and not forthcoming in answering fair questions and submitting paperwork for their SD, I, too, want to tell them, [I]"good luck, enjoy your pet but not in my home or building!"

I hope I've been helpful. And, if I've gotten something wrong, there are wonderful folks on this forum who will let us all know.

[guitarest]

While your correct about the Service dog in training, its also a very gray and shaded area of the ADA. Since no one actually certifies when a dog is "Trained" and it being a emotional support who is willing to have the letter of the law turned on them? I would suspect if the individual is not being secretive and if its a self trained animals which there are thousands; its a personal call. One that could result in a HUD investigation. My advice would be if the tenant has the proper paperwork from his doctor, and the animal is going to puppy classes like STAR or C9GC and graduates its a tenant that intends on training the pup for its intended duties. Blitz was something very similar to this situation; and he did attend puppy training classes and he also has had advanced training through his breeder and is very much a dog I would put up to compare against other dogs in his training.

So the letter of the law says one thing; yet since there are no guide lines when to say the dog is no longer in training since no real certification process be very careful. I do agree with Roz if the tenant is being secretive or just avoiding the situation then chances are really good its just a pet.

I did not post this to offend any one of my friends here, please do not be mad at me Roz. Just offering another opinion.

[wizard-of-roz]

While your correct about the Service dog in training, its also a very gray and shaded area of the ADA. Since no one actually certifies when a dog is "Trained" and it being a emotional support who is willing to have the letter of the law turned on them? I would suspect if the individual is not being secretive and if its a self trained animals which there are thousands; its a personal call. One that could result in a HUD investigation. My advice would be if the tenant has the proper paperwork from his doctor, and the animal is going to puppy classes like STAR or C9GC and graduates its a tenant that intends on training the pup for its intended duties. Blitz was something very similar to this situation; and he did attend puppy training classes and he also has had advanced training through his breeder and is very much a dog I would put up to compare against other dogs in his training.

So the letter of the law says one thing; yet since there are no guide lines when to say the dog is no longer in training since no real certification process be very careful. I do agree with Roz if the tenant is being secretive or just avoiding the situation then chances are really good its just a pet.

I did not post this to offend any one of my friends here, please do not be mad at me Roz. Just offering another opinion.

All opinions are welcome and should be forthcoming.

When a puppy is given to a puppyraiser it stays in their home until it's about 1 year to 14 months of age. Then it turned into the Org. for "advanced training" until it's about 2 to 2 1/2 years old. The dog is put through a lot of challenges to make sure that it's ready to go out into the world with a civilian. The graduated dog must be "invisible" when out in public.

That means; no groweling/barking/nipping or acting badly in any way. If a dog exhibits any of the above behavior it's pulled from the program. Even licking and scratching in public is considered offensive. Of course some of the behavior is so normal at home.....if you would see how Horton loves to roll over on his back and just wiggle his body all over the rug and then he has to check-out all his body parts to make sure he didn't leave anything behind at work.

I NEVER let him lick or scratch when we're in a restaurant and he loves to do that [such a teenage boy!]......he'll just look at me when he's beginning his "body expedition" and he knows he better wait until he gets in the car!!!!!

And, fear of me getting angry with you is a good thing!!!!! Just kidding!!!!! ;)

[Algebralovr]

Thanks for the website referral. Looks like the dog in training is not covered if it does not yet have basic manners.

Guess it all depends on whether I want to risk the potential legal fees. I think I'll use the web site as ammo, along with the ADA FAQ. Time for documentation that animal is needed or out they both go. Since the animal is not trained, it is a pet. While it may be a service animal at some point, it is not presently such. As a result, a pet fee is due to cover the additional wear and tear (cause it has already chewed woodwork).

I'm more annoyed about them sneaking it in than anything else. Well, that and giving people with well behaved animals a bad name. I understand that dogs are actually meant to be working animals - ever seen a real shephard dog at work? Amazing!

Thanks a bunch for the help!

[guitarest]

Thanks for the website referral. Looks like the dog in training is not covered if it does not yet have basic manners.

Guess it all depends on whether I want to risk the potential legal fees. I think I'll use the web site as ammo, along with the ADA FAQ. Time for documentation that animal is needed or out they both go. Since the animal is not trained, it is a pet. While it may be a service animal at some point, it is not presently such. As a result, a pet fee is due to cover the additional wear and tear (cause it has already chewed woodwork).

I'm more annoyed about them sneaking it in than anything else. Well, that and giving people with well behaved animals a bad name. I understand that dogs are actually meant to be working animals - ever seen a real shephard dog at work? Amazing!

Thanks a bunch for the help!

I agree 100% with you, in my situation I let the property owners know about blitz a few months before he was even ready to become a helper. If your tenant just tried to sneak him in odds are really then that using Roz's example is whats needs to happen. I know in my situation I often warn people about Blitz before I go anywhere "official" to warn them not that I am required but because its just being proper and polite to warn people about a 96lb German Shepherd.

If the tenant just sneaked him in request a copy of the paperwork from the doctor and also as required by the ADA a document called a "Letter of Accommodation" should have already been presented to you before this puppy showed up. Also you can contact HUD in your area and speak with their office and tell them whats going on; this way its HUD who is taking the legal risk and if its not a documented case of a medical need HUD will find out real quick and in a hurry.

[Latitude 20]

Hello, I've tried to wade through the over 360 pages of posts here and wow! There is so much info and I'm having a hard time finding what I need. I'm hoping that some of you can direct me to where I can have the info I need.

I own rental property and some LL's and I were having a discussion about service animals. I found a faq about them (http://www.ada.gov/qasrvc.htm) but that doesn't address my question.

Recently, the question was raised about emotional support animals. Now, I understand that a fully trained service animal is allowed into a rental with no question, that I'm not allowed to charge an additional fee (although I am allowed to inspect the property for damage regularly and to bill for any damage caused by the animal, but that is true of people with children as well). I also understand that while I cannot ask the nature of the person's disability, I am allowed to ask what kind of support the animal provides.

I also understand that while there are organizations that train animals, not all individuals with service animals get their assistants from these organizations and that some people actually train their animals themselves.

This is where the questions arise. Is a puppy (and I specifically mean a young dog) that is not yet trained, and may not even be housebroken (!) considered a service animal, even an emotional support animal? If the human claims it is a service animal in training, does that person/animal have the same rights as a human/animal pair who are fully trained?

In general, I allow small pets that are generally caged and well trained dogs into my property. When I am asked about dogs, I always ask for the age of the dog, and I want them to be at least 2 years old. I ask for vet info and proof that the local license has been paid, and I ask to meet the dog. Good responsible pet owners never argue, give me the info I ask for, bring the dog along to meet me and they invite me over to their place. I love those tenants and I often keep them for years at a time.

I have an issue right now, however, where some kind of case manager is arguing that an animal is a service animal. It is an emotional support dog in this case. In fact, the dog is a puppy, not yet trained and violates all my usual rules. When I asked for something from a physician it was refused.

Can anyone point me toward some documentation?

I appreciate that dogs can be a great support for some of you, but this guy is giving SDs a bad name.

Roz, you seem very knowledgeable and passionate about SA and I'm hoping you or someone else can provide me some links.

Sorry this is off topic about cruising, but it looked like there were a lot of non-cruise posts in this thread. :)

Hi Algebralovr,

No worries about being "off-topic." Far as I'm concerned everything is on-topic as "something to distract me until I can take another cruise!" :D

I'm a paralegal and did some research on this exact issue for a CLE seminar last year. That said, I'm offering these resources as a member of this discussion group and not as legal advice. I encourage you to contact an attorney in your state for further information.

I'm assuming you're a private landlord so the applicable rules are found in the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/FHLaws/yourrights). A very good FAQ on the issue by the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law is online at http://www.bazelon.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=mHq8GV0FI4c%3d&tabid=245.

Roz and Jocko have given you some great information so I'll just point out a few additional things:

>>By definition, emotional support animals are not task-trained. They assist their owners simply by existing. This is different than a psychiatric service animal which is task-trained to ameliorate its handler's mental health disability (for example, doing room searches for a handler with PTSD or recognizing and leading to safety a person with disassociative episodes). The simple way to think of this is service animals are needed for what they do and emotional support animals are needed for who they are. Psychiatric service animals are allowed the same access as any other service animal; emotional support animals are not allowed public access but are allowed in "no pets" housing and to travel in airplane cabins.

>>Emotional support animals are generally allowed the same access to housing as service animals. As the Bazelon article points out, this means that landlords must make reasonable accommodations and generally can't pre-emptively charge a pet deposit. But landlords can require both emotional support and service animals to be reasonably well-behaved by pet standards. This means the animal is fully toilet-trained and has no bad habits that would disturb neighbors such is frequent or lengthy episodes of barking. The animal should not pose a danger to other tenants or to workmen.

>>Again, in the Bazelon article it says "In the event that a tenant's assistive animal does cause significant damage, that tenant should certainly be held financially liable." Whether it rises to an evictable offense is an issue you should definitely take up with an attorney.

>>Finally, these are just the federal regulations. Your state or local authorities may have laws that provide additional access for emotional support animals.

Hope this helps,
Kathi

[rangeley]

Yet again another reason for a federal registry.

[rangeley]

We had a great time yesterday and sold alot of dog cookies for CCI and the girl scouts. There was about 5 dogs there and a ton of people! John and Wexler were awesome. John can talk and Wex can put on a show. We will be doing it again today for an actual game. We will sell cookies before the game and until the third inning, then we will get seats for the rest of the game. Its Sox-Yankees so the park will be packed. By the time we got home yesterday, we were exhausted. Poor Wex was so tired. Poor doggie. :(

[wizard-of-roz]

Thanks for the website referral. Looks like the dog in training is not covered if it does not yet have basic manners.

Guess it all depends on whether I want to risk the potential legal fees. I think I'll use the web site as ammo, along with the ADA FAQ. Time for documentation that animal is needed or out they both go. Since the animal is not trained, it is a pet. While it may be a service animal at some point, it is not presently such. As a result, a pet fee is due to cover the additional wear and tear (cause it has already chewed woodwork).

I'm more annoyed about them sneaking it in than anything else. Well, that and giving people with well behaved animals a bad name. I understand that dogs are actually meant to be working animals - ever seen a real shephard dog at work? Amazing!

Thanks a bunch for the help!


I'm sorry for your aggravation and the confrontation that lays ahead for you....it's not pleasant to have to remove someone with an animal. It's not the animals fault and irresponsible owners make me nuts!!!!!!


Yes, I've seen a German Shepherd in working mode and it's pure magic.

Good luck and please come back and let us know how it went.

[guitarest]

Yes, I've seen a German Shepherd in working mode and it's pure magic.



I sooooooooooooo agree with you. I happen to know a person with a German Shepherd; not a bad guy at all; the fog is pretty cool also............ lol

[wizard-of-roz]

I sooooooooooooo agree with you. I happen to know a person with a German Shepherd; not a bad guy at all; the fog is pretty cool also............ lol


Do you now!!!! I know a few myself and like everyone of them!

[guitarest]

dog not fog,,,,, duh

[wizard-of-roz]

I am so angry at myself for not taking better care and for letting my niece's dog be introduced to Horton. The scratch on his face is so "there" as a reminder to me. Geeeezzz, if you can't trust your relatives who can you trust?

Actually, it reminds of when my kids were very little and one of my new neighbors asked if she could bring her little, "darling" over to meet my little one. [They were both about 4 years old.] The little imp promptly bit my child on the shoulder, so hard that it left a scar for years. :( Needless to say that woman and her "no-neck-monster" were never invited back and we never became friends either!!!! But, my Lisa who is way over 4 today and I NEVER forgot the incident!

[guitarest]

I am so angry at myself for not taking better care and for letting my niece's dog be introduced to Horton. The scratch on his face is so "there" as a reminder to me. Geeeezzz, if you can't trust your relatives who can you trust?

Actually, it reminds of when my kids were very little and one of my new neighbors asked if she could bring her little, "darling" over to meet my little one. [They were both about 4 years old.] The little imp promptly bit my child on the shoulder, so hard that it left a scar for years. :( Needless to say that woman and her "no-neck-monster" were never invited back and we never became friends either!!!! But, my Lisa who is way over 4 today and I NEVER forgot the incident!

Roz you had no way of knowing this was going to happen. There is no way you could have prevented it without upsetting your neice and even then you had no idea as to what would have or could have happened. I know Horton means so much to you; as you do to him I am sure he is past the issue. You need to get past it also; not trying to be a jerk here; please do not get mad at me; Horton can feel your pain. The way dogs can feel our inner pain and thoughts can transmit to a dog who may become frightened of other dogs and turn on other dogs. I have seen it in my years of owning and training dogs. You need a positive mental attitude; I know he knows you meant no harm.

Stop beating yourself up over the situation. Just keep the wound clean and eventually it will heal I promise and all it will be in a few months is a memory.

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz you had no way of knowing this was going to happen. There is no way you could have prevented it without upsetting your neice and even then you had no idea as to what would have or could have happened. I know Horton means so much to you; as you do to him I am sure he is past the issue. You need to get past it also; not trying to be a jerk here; please do not get mad at me; Horton can feel your pain. The way dogs can feel our inner pain and thoughts can transmit to a dog who may become frightened of other dogs and turn on other dogs. I have seen it in my years of owning and training dogs. You need a positive mental attitude; I know he knows you meant no harm.

Stop beating yourself up over the situation. Just keep the wound clean and eventually it will heal I promise and all it will be in a few months is a memory.

Thanks for the kind and thoughtful words.....Have a great weekend!

[guitarest]

Thanks for the kind and thoughtful words.....Have a great weekend!

You too, I just heard from the VA they mailed a decision in my appeal to me. Hopefully its good news....

[wizard-of-roz]

You too, I just heard from the VA they mailed a decision in my appeal to me. Hopefully its good news....

Jocko: I hope it's good news, you deserve it.

Sunshine: I hope it's all going well with your health and your daughter's big day.

Cindy: I hope John's health is good and that you and Wexy are staying cool.

Nancy: I hope you're finding some fun and that life is treating you well.

Quam: You're very quiet, I hope it means that all is going well for you.

Kathi: Thank you for interjecting a wise word or two when needed.

Marcia: You are such a great gal and are so helpful & wise. Remember, I'm cruising on October 6th (Sapphire Princess.)

DKD: Love you!!!!! We wouldn't have a good day without your punts.

Peter -DVD-Where are you, how's Cameron and Wherin?

Cari: You're ready soon to retire Denver, let us know how it's going.

Valentine's Mom, Flsunnymommy,CJborne,Cru1ng and so many other's who have shared your wonderful stories with us...come on back and let us know how you're doing.

[cjborne2]

We know a pretty cool german shepherd too who has way too much fun while working and has been a great addition our family (although my cat still does not like him). We are all off to my son's soccer game, followed by field day for school for a good part of the day tomorrow. So ready for this school year to be over...

[wizard-of-roz]

We know a pretty cool german shepherd too who has way too much fun while working and has been a great addition our family (although my cat still does not like him). We are all off to my son's soccer game, followed by field day for school for a good part of the day tomorrow. So ready for this school year to be over...

You forgot to mention how brilliant he is!!!!!!! Didn't the school year just begin? Please don't rush time too much.......I can't take how fast it goes when you reach my age!!!!!

[Latitude 20]

Do you now!!!! I know a few myself and like everyone of them!

Josh!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hi Algebralovr,

No worries about being "off-topic." Far as I'm concerned everything is on-topic as "something to distract me until I can take another cruise!" :D

I'm a paralegal and did some research on this exact issue for a CLE seminar last year. That said, I'm offering these resources as a member of this discussion group and not as legal advice. I encourage you to contact an attorney in your state for further information.

I'm assuming you're a private landlord so the applicable rules are found in the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/FHLaws/yourrights). A very good FAQ on the issue by the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law is online at http://www.bazelon.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=mHq8GV0FI4c%3d&tabid=245.

Roz and Jocko have given you some great information so I'll just point out a few additional things:

>>By definition, emotional support animals are not task-trained. They assist their owners simply by existing. This is different than a psychiatric service animal which is task-trained to ameliorate its handler's mental health disability (for example, doing room searches for a handler with PTSD or recognizing and leading to safety a person with disassociative episodes). The simple way to think of this is service animals are needed for what they do and emotional support animals are needed for who they are. Psychiatric service animals are allowed the same access as any other service animal; emotional support animals are not allowed public access but are allowed in "no pets" housing and to travel in airplane cabins.

>>Emotional support animals are generally allowed the same access to housing as service animals. As the Bazelon article points out, this means that landlords must make reasonable accommodations and generally can't pre-emptively charge a pet deposit. But landlords can require both emotional support and service animals to be reasonably well-behaved by pet standards. This means the animal is fully toilet-trained and has no bad habits that would disturb neighbors such is frequent or lengthy episodes of barking. The animal should not pose a danger to other tenants or to workmen.

>>Again, in the Bazelon article it says "In the event that a tenant's assistive animal does cause significant damage, that tenant should certainly be held financially liable." Whether it rises to an evictable offense is an issue you should definitely take up with an attorney.

>>Finally, these are just the federal regulations. Your state or local authorities may have laws that provide additional access for emotional support animals.

Hope this helps,
Kathi

Kathi, thanks so much, great information.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

We had a great time yesterday and sold alot of dog cookies for CCI and the girl scouts. There was about 5 dogs there and a ton of people! John and Wexler were awesome. John can talk and Wex can put on a show. We will be doing it again today for an actual game. We will sell cookies before the game and until the third inning, then we will get seats for the rest of the game. Its Sox-Yankees so the park will be packed. By the time we got home yesterday, we were exhausted. Poor Wex was so tired. Poor doggie. :(


It's the Red Sox not the White Sox, right? I need to get out more! :o:rolleyes:

Cindy, John & Wex thank you so much for all that you do for CCI.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Josh!

Josh, you handsome boy you!!!! I know a Lab that would love to play with you! :p

[guitarest]

Josh!

Awwww such a pretty GSD

[guitarest]

Got bored today since its a uggg day out side, not raining no sun and gnats all over....
Blitz is upper left, Dia is upper right and the original South Mississippi GSD King
is on the bottom.

http://pruconsultants.com/gsdsign.gif

[Latitude 20]

Awwww such a pretty GSD

Officer Josh would like to point out that he is handsome, not pretty :D

[guitarest]

Officer Josh would like to point out that he is handsome, not pretty :D

I am so sorry please tell the Officer I am deeply sorry for the mistake.......... lol

[cjborne2]

I am really not one to rush the school year along but this 6th grade year has been a killer. I'm so over school projects!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

I went to the baby shower today and Michelle was there [my niece who owns the dog who bit Horton.] Horton's scar is still visible. I showed it to her and she felt horrible. She said her dog is going to be going to socialization classes and she couldn't be more upset about it!

It's over, Horty's scar will hopefully get less and less and we'll all go forward from here.

I'm such a "mama-lion" when it comes to my children and my dogs. I'm very protective!!!! Can't help it, it's just who I am.

[guitarest]

I hear ya, be careful about what you ask for though. One day I was complaining and the next day my children graduated high school. Then they move on with their own lives with their own families and your wishing to have those projects again..........

[Starlite]

Hi everyone :

I am a new graduate of a Hearing dog and we are taking a cruise in a few days. Just wondering if there are any tips I should know for taking her with me. I have cruised before just not with a service dog.

Thanks in advance
Starla

[guitarest]

Hi everyone :

I am a new graduate of a Hearing dog and we are taking a cruise in a few days. Just wondering if there are any tips I should know for taking her with me. I have cruised before just not with a service dog.

Thanks in advance
Starla

I'm sure Roz or the others will chime in soon enough; best advice is to find out from cruise line as to what the different countries require for documents so your service animal can enter other countries. It is my understanding that even if you stay on the boat you have to have these documents etc. Also the dog has to be able to relieve itself in a 3X3 or 4X4 littler box; so it might be best to start with that training before you leave. Again I am not a authority of these situations only know what I have read; many here cruise so much they use Carnival as a forwarding address...... lol

[wizard-of-roz]

Hi everyone :

I am a new graduate of a Hearing dog and we are taking a cruise in a few days. Just wondering if there are any tips I should know for taking her with me. I have cruised before just not with a service dog.

Thanks in advance
Starla

Starla: Welcome! First, congratulations on your Hearing Dog. Your world will be so much brighter and bigger. You will absolutely love cruising with your dog, it's so much fun.

Make sure your paperwork is in order. If you're flying; the TSA will ask to see your documentation for your dog. The Intl. Cert. from the FDA is what is needed and it is provided by a Vet who is Certified to provide this. Ask your Vet and he/she will direct you. If you've just received your dog than all his/her shots are current, as well as his test for heartworm and the useage of Heartguard. This is very important.

Make 3 copies of all your dogs paperwork. Keep the original for yourself and have it ready to to show to the TSA and Immigration and give a copy to the cruise check-in personnel.

Once you've gone to your cabin to drop off your stuff go check-out the potty-box area. I insist that my potty-box be placed in the stairwell closest to my cabin [which is why I ALWAYS book a cabin near the rear of the ship.]

Make sure the box is big enough and there's enough filler in it. If not, call your room steward and request that it made right for you. Bring some extra potty bags to leave at the box [they'll provide the recepticle for disposal of the waste bags and they'll remove them for you.

Do allow for "patting" when your dog is not working and be ready to be stopped and asked the most inanane questions because you're not blind and the public has no idea about "Hearing Dogs!"

What ship will you be on? Where are you going?

Check-out your table in the dining room and make sure there's room for your dog to lay down without being stepped on or kicked.

When you think-out all your possibilities and plan ahead it just makes for a much more pleasant cruising experience.

Watch out for people who will "jam" into the elevators and will show little or no care whether he is stepped on or pushed. Be aware of your dogs comfort zone and try to "pre-think" different scenerio's that may occur.

Most importantly, keep a smile on your face and remember you will represent all of us for the next time we board!!!!!! Have fun!

If you have any specific questions please ask. My Brenda [12 year old Black Lab completed her 15th cruise last September] and Horton [2 year old Black Lab/Golden cross, just completed his first one this past March.] We've got some experience with the different ships/lines and we'd love to help you plan your first.

[guitarest]

So I just got on for the first time today and the photo below was sent to me by my daughter in law. What a wonderful photo of the grand babies..... For those still too young to have grand babies and no matter how much your current kids stress you this makes it worth it. I promise, the first time you hear Grand Daddy or Grand Dad it just makes you feel like every thing in life up to that point was worth the pain.... Look at my grandson Logan looking up at Emma and smiling. She is such a good big big sister!

I promise.........

http://pruconsultants.com/grandbabies.jpg

[wizard-of-roz]

So I just got on for the first time today and the photo below was sent to me by my daughter in law. What a wonderful photo of the grand babies..... For those still too young to have grand babies and no matter how much your current kids stress you this makes it worth it. I promise, the first time you hear Grand Daddy or Grand Dad it just makes you feel like every thing in life up to that point was worth the pain.... Look at my grandson Logan looking up at Emma and smiling. She is such a good big big sister!

I promise.........

http://pruconsultants.com/grandbabies.jpg

This picture belongs to ALL of us! It's so beautiful. You should be proud. I love how the baby is looking at her with such love and adoration!!!!! So cute!!!! :)

[guitarest]

Roz I have almost 100 photos of him already and out of all of them this has to be number one picture...... Yes I am so blessed to have such a great and loving family.

[celle]

Would anyone care to shed some light on this Celebrity board thread?

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1623482

Someone's relative thought they saw a person with a service cat on board, and some posters are getting all hot about possible allergies to cats.

I'm not an expert on the ADA, or on what service animals are allowed on cruise ships, but I am pretty certain that only service dogs are allowed - however, I lack any authority to say so.

Celle

[guitarest]

Cars are not recognized as service animals under the ADA. In my program here in S Miss we do provide cats for those who rather have a cat for a emotional support animals, although its local and not supported under the law. So far the only 2 species that fall under the ADA are Dogs and miniature Horses.