Lucky Copper's Dog Blog

OK, so Dad finally figured it out

2010-09-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

Dad forgot how to log me onto my blog. He is getting so forgetful. I feel sorry for him - Basenji's don't start forgetting important things until they are 7 years old. That is like '49' in people years. Oh yeah...um, sorry Dad.

Remember when I was a wee little pup and I would help out by fluffing the toilet paper? Dad would hollar at me - "Copper, don't chew up the toilet paper - it doesn't grow on trees, you know." I beg to differ: My neighbors Kobe and Chester have a Toilet Paper Tree in their FRONT YARD! Those cats don't even care about this treasure they have at the tip of their paws!

I guess everyone wants to know what I did with my summer since I haven't posted for so long. I went to visit my BnFFs Rhya and Tanner for a whole week in June. Their Mom was the best - she laid down on the couch practically the whole time and I kept her company! It was awesome!

This is what I really did with the rest of my free (non-Doggy Daycare) time:

I taught myself something new and useful. I used to wait for Dad to give me treats and we all know how forgetful he can be at times. If I take my kong and drop it a couple of times it ends up getting full of treats. I tried willing treats into the ball, but that didn't work as well. Dad must not have heard me concentrating so hard.

It's time for me to go to bed. I promise to write more often!

Copper

It's my birthday today!!!

2009-12-23T17:49:00.000-08:00

I turned three today. This is all I wanted to do all day...

Of course, this is all I want to do every day! I got to spend the whole day with Joe. All I did was sleep all day, and all Joe did was play video games. It felt like a Saturday.

I got the coolest presents this year - a new bed AND and a pair of ducks (no paradox jokes, please). I love them so much!

I waited all summer for summer to begin, but it never really did, so I don't have much to say about that anyway. I like my new Central Bark (once in a while I get a new puppy to play with) and Dad still takes me out for walks in the morning, even on those days when I don't want to go with him (see the top picture - get the idea?)

I hear mom wrapping presents - I need to go help her tear paper.

Baroo! Merry Christmas!!!

Copper

It has been too long since I last wrote!

2009-05-30T06:02:00.000-07:00

Ba-roooooooo and greetings to all those fans who adore me! HAH! - who am I kidding? Everyone adores me!

I think winter might be over. I got to lay out in the sun a couple of times, but the furnace came on this morning and that made me just as happy. I don't wear my jackets too much anymore, but dad put one on me the other morning when it rained. I like the rain, especially when it is running down the gutters. It makes me so happy to splash around in the water. Dad even lets me look into the sewer grates to see where the water goes (I don't know where - it just sort of disappears).

I go to a different Central Bark now - mom got a new job and this daycare is pretty close to where she works. I love it there - they have other dogs to play with, and get this - they have a garden hose and squirt water just for me!!! Gayle even has lots of pictures of me, just like dad does. I saw Sue Ann at the dog park a couple of months ago (she is from my old doggy daycare) - I will never forget her (I am a basenji, you know - we never forget anything we ever see). I was so happy to see her.

Last night's walk was unbelievable - there were four squirrels running around right above me! I thought one was going to fall, but it didn't. Dad told me to be careful and not waste squirrels - they don't grow on trees, afterall. Somehow that just didn't sound right. Hmmm. This picture shows me managing squirrels from my house.

I am going to visit Rhya and Tanner sometime this summer. I love their backyard. They have a deck, and a pool, and a rabbit living under the deck, and (allegedly) two cats, and they take me for a zillion walks a day, and get ice cream, and let me watch Ba-rooooers games. I had fun there.

Have a wonderful day! I need to go outside and take care of a little "doggy business," if you know what I mean...

Baroooooooo!

Copper

It's still winter, isn't it?

2009-01-11T08:28:00.000-08:00

Barooo everyone!

I am having such a great winter! The furnace comes on so much that I am getting plenty of rest. When I am forced to go outside there is enough snow for me to make face-cones. I didn't like the bitter cold weather, but it hasn't been too bad lately. Mom and Dad and Joey have taken me to the dog park a couple of times. We went to PetSmart too, so I got to see other dogs and say hi. Cory wasn't there, so I didn't get to baroo for her.

We all had our birthdays in December and January. Joey's birthday party was the neatest - he invited all his friends over to see me! They were kind of noisy, though, and didn't do a good job of sharing their food with me. They mostly ignored me when they played Guitar Hero, but I got plenty of squeezes.

I think mom liked my birthday present to her the best! She told Joey that it looks like I am always wearing socks, so I got her Basenji socks! She put them on before she tried her birthday cake (hey, wait a second here - I didn't get any of that cake! Not fair!)

I got nice Christmas presents - a jacket and some toys. I also got to take a nap on grandma's lap. She is comfortable and warm. Dad and Joey stayed home with me for a whole week and a half, and that was nice. I didn't go to doggy daycare, so I was really, really, really happy to be back when mom started taking me there again.

I wasn't feeling too well about a week ago. Dad had to give me some medicine called "Pup-Sid AC" or something like that. My doctor told me to take it easy for a week. I think Dad's sweet potato made me feel the best. I got to eat almost a whole one myself! Those things are big!!!! My tummy didn't feel well before that but now I am back on my food, and carrots, and almonds, and underwear. I feel great!

Sounds like I need to see if there are any of those darn squirrels in our tree again. TTYL, and stay warm!

Copper

I have to wear a jacket again

2008-11-03T18:01:00.000-08:00

Howdy all -

I am still ba-rooing around the house. Mom and Dad are letting me stay out of my crate during part of the day - I haven't figured out how to get into trouble, so I usually take a nap. Mom stayed home with me for a while, but then she got that verbal offer, which she said became a bone-nified offer. I don't recall seeing any extra bones around the house for me. Which, I guess, must be why she goes away during that day, probably to go where the bones are. I wish she would take me with her. When she does, I go to Central Bark where my friends are.

We have been staying in the house more lately. When we go out, it usually is cooler than what a typical Basenji prefers, so I have to wear my jacket. I almost forgot about my favorite sport while laying out in the sun in the backyard - laying in the sun in the living room! The leaves are off the trees so you know what that means - warm sun spot city! Also, those darn squirrels can't hide from me anymore.

We went for a walk tonight. It sure was dark. I couldn't see bunnies or squirrels, but I could hear them. Everywhere. Taunting me. Dad won't let me catch them. I did take the opportunity to catch up on pee-mail, take care of other business, and spend time with my favorite pack.

Mom took me to the dog park a couple of times. It was wonderful - I had a blast - right up until Mom made me take a bath! I finally got myself where I felt comfortable, and she rinsed it all away from me. I can't help it if someone keeps putting all that mud in my way. I say "Full speed ahead!!! I don't brake for mudholes! Follow me!!!" (no one does)

Good night - I have to go and nap. Talk to you later!

Barooooooo!

Copper
(Hi Mr. C - welcome to my blog!)

Wow - where did my summer go?!?

2008-09-30T18:07:00.000-07:00

Barooooo!!!!

I had such a fun summer! I went to the dog park a lot, and Central Bark (LOOK AT MY REPORT CARD!!! I was a most excellent Basenji!) I was so busy I didn't have time to write until now.

Dad has been really busy at work, doing some kind of project. I mostly got to see him - well, actually not see him because I was usually sleeping - in the evening or at bedtime. He is home more lately, but we haven't been doing our morning walks (whew - it sure is dark out when he leaves).

Mom had something really cool happen - she stopped going to work and stayed home with me! We went to the dog park alot, and I still got to go to Central Bark one day a week. I wasn't happy all the time, though. She spent much of the day on the computer typing, and talking on the phone. She was all excited yesterday - she got something called a 'verbal offer' - it sounds yummy! I hope she shares it with me.

Joey was around the house more, too. But, he is back in school again and makes more noise than ever. I don't mind the thing that hums, but the honker is a little hard on my nerves. I still like to watch him, just not listen.

I need to go now and get a head start on my sleeping. Good night.

Copper

That was incredible!!!

2008-06-29T08:41:00.001-07:00

Mom and Dad and Joey went to someplace called (I think) South Dog-kota. They saw buffalo, prairie dogs, and something called a "Jackalope" which is a huge bunny with antlers!

I got to stay by Rhya and Tanner - turns out they aren't even puppies, but more like Joey. I now have two more BnFFF's (Best non-Furry Friends Forever). They took me for walks FOUR TIMES A DAY!!! Their Dad let me watch a Ba-rooooers game with him, and the best part was that I slept through the whole thing! They knew so much about me - that I like to play with water from a hose, I like to help dry off wet legs, and most importantly, peanut butter is my most favorite treat! They had a WHOLE BARREL of it for me!

I thought I saw a pussy cat, but it must have been a ghost - there was no sign of it the whole week I got to stay there. I think I saw a paw with very sharp claws sticking out from under a door, and I swear I heard someone whispering "Come here puppy dog and put your nose in my paw." Spooky.

Rhya drew a lovely picture of me for Mom and Dad. I just have to share this with you! I still wonder how she knew who ate all that peanut butter!

I am happy to be home now. All my adoring squirrels and bunnies missed me, and I need to go chase them.

Barooooo!

Copper

I get to go for an overnight visit!!!

2008-06-17T19:01:00.000-07:00

Did you hear the good news? Mom and Dad and Joey said I get to go on an overnighter! I don’t know much about it yet, but I pretty sure there are a couple of puppies named Rhya and Tanner there – they are going to play with me, from what Dad was saying. This is good news!!! Baroooo!

I hope they know some of the important stuff about me – it took my regular Doggy Daycare weeks to find this out:

I eat two half-cups of my favorite dog food twice a day. I really am not a breakfast dog, so I usually eat my first bowl when Mom gets home from work, and my second one when the critters eat their supper. Ok, I admit I am a sloppy eater, but I do want to be with everyone else during supper.

Dad makes my pink kong in the morning by putting a handful of my favorite food in along with three T-Training treats. He has to put a bone-shaped treat in each end to keep the stuff inside. As a special treat, he puts the rest of the peanut butter on the knife on the bone-shaped treats. The other thing Dad does is put peanut butter inside my red kong along with a kong stuffing. He puts this in the refrigerator and Mom gives this to me when she comes home to let me out for lunch. The knife is used for the pink kong, and I always get to lick it clean. Mom sometimes gives me a piece of ham when I listen and go back into my crate after my lunchtime walk.

I don’t like to poop in my yard. That’s what walks are made for. Everyone knows when Dad takes me for my morning and evening walk because he carries bags just for me. He calls them ‘Dog Treats’ but I don’t know why – I never have gotten one of them. He just throws them away and hollers at me if I try to take them out of the garbage.

I do like having my chest and tummy rubbed while I am standing next to my critters. I don’t like being on my back while getting attention.

If my ears are down and my tail is curled, I am happy. If I do all this and say ‘Barooo’, I am extremely happy!!! Sometimes I even wag my tail!

I know a couple of commands – Sit, Stay, Wait (Dad uses this when I pull too hard on my leash or try to get out the door), Down, Baroo (I guess this means Speak) and Crate Treat. When Dad says this one, he points at my crate and I go in. Not always happily, mind you.

I get to sleep on Mom & Dad’s bed at home. I wonder…

I listen pretty well for a Basenji, but sometimes my inner hunter takes over if I see something furry and interesting. Dad says that’s why I can’t go off-leash and it is very important to loop my leash over your wrist when we go for walks. I am surprisingly strong for my size and have pulled away a couple of times. Basenjis are supposed to be escape artists.

My favorite spot when I am tired is between someone’s legs or on someone’s lap. I like to go to bed by 9 pm some nights.

The only thing I will wake up for is cheese. I also will sit, go down, play bang, and roll over for cheese. Dad won’t overdo it, but I say, hey – go ahead, make my day!

I am tired - it is already after my bedtime. I will write more if I think of anything else to say.

Baroooooo!!!

Copper

It's just not fair!!!

2008-05-14T20:09:00.000-07:00

I heard Dad talking about a fun thing that he did, but he never even thought of taking me along with him! He went to something called a "Bah-rooers Game" last night. I stayed home. That just isn't fair!

The only Bah-rooers I know of are other Basenjis. If there is ever anything right up my alley, it is Basenji games. The other Basenjis must be very happy with whatever one does at a Bah-rooers game, especially if it causes all that yodeling!

I don't know what a Bah-rooers game is, but from what I could gather it involves chasing balls around, running in circles, and catching flies (another thing that I enjoy). Dad took a couple of pictures, but I don't know - none of them show any Basenjis. They probably needed a nap after all that chasing around. This one only has humans in it:

The most incredible thing happened during the game - GIANT SNAUSAGES RACED AROUND! I would have done every trick I could think of to get one of those Snausages! I don't recall ever seeing a sausage run around, but I bet I could catch a couple of them if I tried. I bet I could catch a rabbit if I tried. I wonder if they could let a rabbit loose during a Bah-rooers game. I would beat any other Basenji within a mile catching up with it, I bet!

This is the picture Dad took of the Snausages. Come to think of it, those Snausages look pretty big. Maybe I will stick with my Milkbones:Oops - sounds like Dad is coming in - until next time, Bah-ROOOOoooooo!

Copper

I am a Mud Hound!

2008-05-10T06:40:00.000-07:00

I finally know what kind of dog I am - I am a Mud Hound! I must be because I have learned this by simply paying attention:

When I stayed up late one night and chewed on Dad's belt, he said "When I catch you, your name is gonna be Mud!" I think he was kidding, because he still calls me Copper.
Someone keeps putting glorious mudholes at the Dog Park, and Mom and Dad and Joey keep taking me there.
The big dogs want me to chase them through the mud - that must mean proof positive that I am a Mud Hound!

As you may have figured out, I have my shots, I have my license, and I have my ticket to the dog park! Someday, maybe this year, the weather will be warm enough to go more often than we have been able to go this spring. *Sigh* (Oops - I mean bah...rooooo.)

Anyhow, the couple of times I have been there have been an absolute joy! I got to run off my cabin fever the first time, and the next couple of times were run and play, run and play. I had seven dogs chasing after me at one time. That actually got a little scary at the end, so I ran over by Mom.

Here I am with a couple of new friends I made on this visit. We had so much fun running around that fence. The first time I went through the water I found the lowest spot. I was in over my head! I am more careful after that and stay closer to the edges.

Mom and Dad seem happier now that they are used to being at the dog park. I think they finally found something to keep themselves busy - they hardly interrrupt me. I keep my eyes on them, though, and if they wander off I run by to check on them and make sure they are ok.

After running through those wonderful mud puddles, I think the best way to dry off is to play a good game of "stick." Then, tired and happy, it is time to go home. Dad puts a blanket on the back seat, and we all get in the car and go home.

One time, though, Dad said "Pee-yew!" Mom said "Pee-yew!" Joey said "That's Copper!" I was so proud of myself - I brought home some of the dog park with me! Mom made me give it back (and now you can see why I am a Mud Hound!

I will be sure to refresh my Mud Hound status when I go back to the park. There is no way those mud holes can ever dry up this year!

After a long, hard day at the dog park or at Doggy Daycare, there is nothing better than putting your head on someones laptop and getting in a little snooze and some petting! This is the life!

Until next time, Ba-rooo!!!!

Copper

I feel like (a) Britney (Spaniel)

2008-03-12T17:30:00.000-07:00

I think I am being followed by pupparazzi! My picture showed up in the March 2008 issue of Fetch Magazine, on page 25. Someone took my picture at doggy daycare and sent it in to Fetch. Basenjis are the featured breed of the month, and I got to show off my pretty pink jacket (the one I wore at Halloween). If you would like to read the article (sorry, no pictures) go to http://www.fetchmag.com/ or stop at any pet store in SE Wisconsin to get a copy.

Dad said something about taking early morning walks now that the weather might be warming up. I sure hope he doesn't wake me up when he goes out on these. I am so happy to curl up on Mom & Dad's bed and wait for the furnace to start up. Yup, I have it made!

I can't believe that I have lived here for a whole year! Mom and Dad and Joey brought me home on March 10, 2007 (is that October in dog months?) I think they were going to do something special, but must have forgotten. Dad said not going bankrupt on vet bills was special enough, but I like my doctor! He has a neat big screen TV, whatever that is. I wonder if it smells good.

Well, I am tired from my day at doggy daycare. I am going to go and take a 16 hour nap.

Bye.

Copper

I am back in the dog game!

2008-02-22T17:22:00.000-08:00

Barooooo and howdy to all!

I am happy to report that my cone is gone and Mom is letting me jump up and down off the bed and couch as I see fit! I even go to Central Bark again and get to play with all my friends. I didn't see cousin Riley there - I am pretty sure that Dad said Riley is now going to Doggy Daycare. I will have to sniff around for him.

I have a new bottom in my crate. Mom got a new one after I chewed up two others during my boring days inside. This one is pretty hard - I haven't been able to get a hole started. I will figure out something. It is really hard like my chain, or the tags on my collar.

I pitch in wherever I can. If my toys are in the box, I get them out so we can have fun. I found a box of cans in the bathroom and I opened this up for Mom and Dad and Joey. I also found time to fluff up the toilet paper. I am soooo proud of myself - I heard Dad say that I am a big help!

Dad went to a city called Indianapolis for a whole week. He missed the big snowstorm. Mom and Joey stayed home with me one day and that was fun. Dad said he had fun in that city, but it got kind of boring at the end because he really wanted to get home but his flights kept getting canceled. I missed him and was very happy to have him home.

I spent a whole weekend at Central Bark. Mom and Dad and Joey went to someplace called "The Dells" and left me with my friends at Doggy Daycare. They were very nice to me, but I was more happy than I ever have been when Mom and Dad and Joey came to pick me up!!! I sang for them more than I have ever sung before!

Sounds like Mom needs me now - I will write again soon!

Copper

The cone is back?!?

2008-01-01T07:25:00.000-08:00

What the hey - I went to the vet and fell asleep there (again) - and the cone was back when I woke up! And my leg hurt a lot!!! I remember Mom and Dad talking about my knee locking up - I wonder if this has anything to do with it? Since then, they haven't taken me for walks, and no trips to the dog park or doggy daycare. We went to Grandpa and Grandma's house for Christmas, but all I did there was sit on someone's lap and sleep. It was kind of wonderful in that regard.

I want to play chase, but Mom and Dad and Joey won't do that - it is making me a little sad. Mom said I have to wait at least another five weeks. I will get those itchy stitches out on January 7th.

I had some fun for my second Christmas (I was born on December 23rd, 2006 - Dad said something about combining presents, which I don't think would be fair at all!) I did get some nice gifts - a new jacket and some new chew toys.

I made a painting for Dad (with some help from Joey).
He is going to take it to work so he can think about me during the day when I am at home in my crate, or at daycare. Dad certainly was surprised by this gift - he didn't even have a clue that I was giving him anything this thoughtful and nice! Joey had fun doing this too - he must have because I got to chase the Kleenex that he was holding when we made the painting.

I love the snow - I wish it wouldn't be so cold, though. That cone comes in real handy when I need to bury my pee or poop. Dad took a picture of me exploring - I don't think it is the best he has ever done since it is so blurry. I hope that Mom will let me play in the snow some more, soon. I can hear things moving around underneath, and I have found two dead mice so far. Mom just says "yuck" and won't let me pick up my prizes.

Well, I need to see what Joey is up to - he might have a treat for me.

Have a Happy New Year!

Copper

Snow, snow, snow!!!!

2007-11-24T06:48:00.001-08:00

I got to play in the snow this week. I could hear things under it, so I had to root around with my nose to see what was there. Dad laughed at me - he probably didn't realize I was being quite serious about finding the source.

I was reminded why this is my favorite time of the year (except for the cold air) - the brown crunch-berries are back in season! Dad calls them "rabbit turds" - I call them "DEE-Licious!!!"

More about the cold air that I don't like - I have to hurry when I go to the bathroom outside. I miss my morning walks, but not that much when my feet get cold. Mom got a jacket for me, which is nice. I like to wear it, but they still make me go outside. My favorite spot in the morning is in the dining room - there is a warm spot that is just at my level. Mom lets me sleep on the bed with her and Dad - Dad says winter is here because I have migrated north. I just want to be warm!!!

I was by grandma and grandpa's house this weekend. I had to stay in my crate for the day, and no one else was around all day! I scolded everyone when they came back from wherever they went. I smelled turkey on their breath, and I waited all night and the next day, but no one gave me any.

Mom told me I am going to see the vet on December 21st to take care of my knee that keeps locking up. She said I won't be able to go to the dog park or daycare for about six to eight weeks. She also said I probably won't mind too much if it is cold - I will get to stay inside most of the time.

Well, gotta go - it sounds like Joey is doing something interesting.

Copper

I am a busy Basenji!

2007-10-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

Ba-roooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooohhhhhhhh!!!!

That is the sound I make when I am happy! I am so happy when Dad comes home from work that I go Ba-rooooooooooooooohhhhhhhhh!!!!! sometimes five or six times!

I got to see my doctor twice in the past month. The first time was when I had these itchy bumps all over my hips. Mom called them "hives" and they sure made me uncomfortable. She took me to my doctor and he gave me a shot of something (I DID NOT LIKE THAT SHOT!). Mom and Dad gave me cheese balls for a couple of days after that and I felt better. Dad said I might be allergic to cats, and I will need to take anti-hissssss-tamines because of that.

I went to my doctor again last night. Dad said the doctor smiled when he saw me because he was going to get a big screen TV because of me! I am so happy that someone is getting something because of me! My knee is a little stiff at times, and the doctor said I might need an operation because my kneecap wanders around. I like to wander around too, but Mom and Dad put that darn leash on me all the time and I can't go that far away from them. Unless we go to the dog park - then I can do whatever I want!

I graduated from class at PetSmart. My teacher, Cory, was the coolest! She understood me. I really, really, really will try to quit the Kleenex - that stuff is so addicting! Cory did show me a different thing I could do and get a treat, but you know, it just isn't the same as shredding a good Kleenex!

Well, I need to get to bed - tomorrow is my day at Central Bark!

Ba-rooooooooooooooooooooooooh!

Copper

I am Dog - hear me yodel!

2007-09-18T18:00:00.000-07:00

I have had so many adventures since I last wrote, which I probably why I didn't write! Mom and Dad and Joey took me to some really neat places and we did some incredible dog fun things!

My Boat Ride
I rode on a real boat. Uncle Andy took us for a ride on Green Lake. I did my darndest to sit nice. Best of all, I got to ride on Mom's lap! Dad made some kind of pirate joke that I didn't get - something about being a scurvy dog. Joey got to drive the boat, while I waited on the shore with Mom (Dad was so lucky - he got to ride along!)

My new school

I am learning more tricks and stuff at PetSmart. Cory the trainer is teaching Mom and Dad and Joey things I already know how to do - they just don't always know how to ask me. Last night I made everyone so proud - I went into my down position while Sadie and Scout and Chico walked past me. I almost stayed down the whole time, but Sadie (the great big black lab) came lunging toward me and I stood up. Scout is so nice - he didn't bother me at all when he walked by and I looked pretty good because of that.

My Wednesdays and Thursdays

I go to Doggy Day Care!!! Mom takes me to a place called Central Bark in Oak Creek. My first day there was so much fun - I played with every dog I could. I was so tired out I fell asleep in the car on the way home, and slept until 6:00 the next morning. And you know what? - Mom took me back the next day!!!

http://www.centralbarkusa.com/html/locations/oakcreek/details.html

I like going there even more than going to the Dog Park! I see the same friends every week!

Joey goes to school too. I don't think he gets to play with dogs there - that is too bad because we are so much fun!

I need to go to bed now. I have to get rested up for doggy daycare tomorrow. I am so excited I can hardly sleep!

Talk to you later!

Love,

Copper

Copper - Version 2.0

2007-07-21T14:48:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I got to go to my veterinarian and there was some kind of upgrade done to me. I am pretty sore today, but I do get to wear a really cool thing around my head that gives me all sorts of new features:

- I now get 161 channels when I look up at squirrels in the trees.

- I can hear someone whispering from over two miles away.

-When I yodel, I can knock birds out of the trees because I am sooooo loud!

Mom said I look like some kind of stereo speaker - Dad said "Duh - she is a woofer, you know."

I overheard Mom telling Joey that I had an electronic chip implanted in me. If I get lost, the people who find me would scan me and can somehow tell where I live. Joey asked if they would take me to a supermarket and put me on my back, on the belt to do this. I won't mind as long as I get a belly rub and a treat. Mom said no, this isn't what would happen. Maybe not.

I am still getting used to this electronic chip, though. I swear that I heard someone talking when I walked by the aluminum gutter in the backyard. I sort of felt like someone was watching me. I will have to keep my nose to the ground on this.

Mom, Dad and Joey are staying home from work next week. I am so happy that they are here with me - I feel a lot better when they are around. I will have to write again, soon, to let you know how my week went.

Have a good day!

I'm a Yankee Doodle Doggie!!!

2007-07-04T11:53:00.000-07:00

I went to my very first parade today - I think it was held in my honor! So many people wanted to meet me, so I had to oblige. There were sirens, and loud bangs, and lots of music. Joey kept getting stuff thrown at him, so I was a little jealous. But, some nice girls gave me treats, too. Then I was happy.

I showed everyone there that I don't need opposible thumbs to wave a flag! Dad and I walked down the middle of Broad Street carrying a flag - eveyone said I looked cute! I think that means something like sit, but I get petted instead of a treat to eat

I liked almost everything about the parade, except for the critters with the big fuzzy paws. They were kind of scary. Mom said they were "Pom Pom Girls" - I don't know what those are, but I will avoid them for the time being.

I am happy today - Mom, Dad and Joey are spending so much time with me. I was by myself for a while on Sunday and Monday. I heard them talking about going to Summerfest and Six Flags Great America. My neighbors come over to walk me and play, so I didn't mind too much. I met my neighbor cat Taco nose-to-nose. He was so nice, patting me on both sides of my face. I patted him once with my paw, and he ran away. I think he probably had to go to the bathroom or something - he was in a big hurry to get somewhere!

I need to take a nap - I think Mom and Dad and Joey are going to make we walk somewhere this afternoon. See ya.

My head is spinning!!!!

2007-06-16T06:22:00.001-07:00

I had such a busy time since I last wrote!

I went to my cousin Hailey's person's high school graduation party. None of my other cousins were there - Riley was at some hoity-toity dog hotel. Hah! - I got to stay at a real hotel! I had a really fun time, but I got kind of tired of being in the car for so long. I was happy to be home.

Mom and Dad have been very good with their games - we played hide and seek, and both found really good hiding places. Dad said Mom was in Ohio. I looked all over the house, but I couldn't find Ohio anywhere. Then a week later, Dad went missing - Mom said he was in Florida! Again, I looked all over the house, but there was no Florida anywhere to be found. I was so happy the night he came out of hiding - I yodeled and kissed him! Then I went back by Mom and laid down.

We all went to Green Bay for a wedding last Saturday. I got to spend time with Huey and Crash, but then I had to go into my crate, which wasn't fair! Dad was in the house - all he did was lay down on the floor in the living room. Mom said he had a muscle spasm in his back, so he had to lay down for a while. I think he is feeling a little better, although Mom has been taking me for walks a little more, lately. I hope Dad feels better soon!

Mom said something about Doggy Day Care - I think I might be able to go this fall. For now, my cat neighbor's people come over to walk me during lunch once in a while. I still need to train them on proper treating. I even remember to sit at street corners all on my own, but they need to remember to reward me!

Gotta go! Talk to you later.

-Copper

I run with the Big Dogs now

2007-05-20T10:30:00.000-07:00

Rabies shots
Dog license
Vaccinations

Yup, I have them all. Guess what that means? - Dog Park!!! I had the funnest day of my entire life yesterday! You are probably wondering how this came about. Last weekend I went to my cousin Cash's house for one of the two-legged critter's (Garrett) birthday party. Cash, Huey and Crash were there too. They all got to run around and chase balls - I did too, but the leash I was on kept stopping me just short once in a while.

This is me chasing a ball with Huey. Mom didn't want me to be off my leash because of cars and every so often my interest in them makes it appear that I want to chase them. There is nothing further from the truth! It is not the cars I am after - I want to get the spinning wheels. Anyway, I was having so much fun running around that Mom had Dad get me a dog license so I could go to a special place called a "Dog Park " and run all around with other dogs.

At first I was a little leery about being with the other dogs (at least, that is what Mom said I was.) So, there was a fenced-in area for puppies (that would be me) and little dogs. I was the only one in there. The big dogs kept asking me if I could come out and play. And guess what? I got to run around without a leash!!! I made so many new friends! I ran with the BIG DOGS!!! I was careful to keep my pack in sight (Mom, Dad and Joey) and I was mostly good about coming back when called. I really hope they bring me here again. When we were done, we went back to the car - Dad said we were parked in a "Barking Lot"

I was so tired after my adventures today that I had Mom lay down next to me. Once she was asleep I relaxed and kicked back. All I did from then on was dream about the other dogs. I guess I didn't make a peep all night.

I graduated from Puppy Class tonight

2007-05-01T17:35:00.000-07:00

I graduated from Puppy Class tonight! I even got to show off to the whole class what I taught Mom - when I lift my paw, she gives me a treat. It only took me a couple of days to teach her this. I know how to sit, lie down, and wait at the door. Sometimes I forget things, but Mom and Dad and Joey are very patient with me.

I take my Dad for walks in the morning, usually as the sun is coming up. There are so many interesting smells and sounds, and sometimes I get to meet new critters! My most favorite thing to do on walks is pick up clumps of grass (or sticks, or poop - I found a Ho Ho still in its wrapper the other morning). I still don't like walking in the rain or snow. Brrrr.

I am getting my voice. I figured out how to yodel all on my own! Dad looks so shocked when I do this - its as if I sound like an alien or something. I will try to remember to do a couple of pretend barks just to keep him happy.

I am looking forward to the weekend - I get to go to grandma & grandpa's house again. I hope that fun dog is there. It would be ok if the grouchy ones showed up, too - I think they are kidding me when they growl.

Talk to you later!

Copper

This was way too cool!!!

2007-04-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

I had such an exciting day yesterday!!! Usually I stay in my crate all day, but the critter I call Joey left the door unlatched so I could roam around the house all by myself!!! That was way too cool!!! I got to play with toilet paper in both bathrooms, and even got to chew on something leathery in Joey's room.

I was sitting pleasantly for Mom when she came home to walk me - she seemed a bit surprised to see me sitting so nicely. I thought I was sitting so nice before, but I must have improved on that. I was so happy, I sang for Mom before we went on our walk. But, sadly, Mom forgot to leave the door on my crate unlatched when she went back to work so I had to stay in one place until everyone came home again.

Dad showed me how my ancestors were carried to the hunt in Africa. We would help by chasing animals for the hunters. The hunters would carry us to either make sure we had enough energy to run around, or to make sure we actually got to the hunting grounds and not go off after squirrels or bunnies. At least the hunters protected us from cheetahs! I got to nibble Dad's ear while he had me on his shoulders. That was fun.

There is another critter that now has a name. He noticed that puppies have "pie" in them, and I think I love pie, whatever they are. If other puppies have pies in them, then I should too. I am calling him MIKE, as in Means I Keep Eating "pie." MIKE is a friend of JOEY, and I like playing with him.

I met other Basenjis in the neighborhood - Remy and Logan. They are really good about staying in their own yard. Dad said something about an invisible fence, but I didn't see anything. He must be a bit crazy. I also met Jasmine and Sasha, two Malamute Huskies. I tried to take a delicious bone from Jasmine, but she didn't like that. Dad said I will need to remember not to do that again.

Dad said there is an interesting show called Nature on PBS. They will have an episode on the origin of dogs starting April 22. My breed is one of 14 that will be featured. The show is about how dogs changed the world. Part one is this Sunday, and part 2 will be the following Sunday.

What a weekend!!!

2007-04-16T21:03:00.000-07:00

I finally met my cousin Riley in-per...er, um..in-dog on Sunday! He is really laid back. I spent the whole day on my leash, though - he had a bone in his crate that was unbelievably irresistable! No gate was going to keep me away from it. So, Dad had enough of this and kept me near him. It wasn't so bad - I did get lots of treats! When we got home, Mom fed me my favorite meal and somehow my food ended up in Joey's shoes. I hope no one noticed.

I also met a German Shepherd named Beth. She has a friend named Mac (Mac-Beth, get it?). Anyway, Beth got off her leash and came running toward me. It startled me, but she seemed fun. I was fine and was going back over to play with her, but Mom picked me up from behind and I was so startled by that I yelped! I got to meet Beth and Mac later on - they are so well behaved I think Dad wants me to be that way, too (hah!)

Dad has been training me in something called "Loose Leash Walking" which seems to mean I get to eat as I walk next to him. Mom and Dad kept me running between them for treats tonight - they were very happy that I listened so well. I took a walk with Dad afterward - this was the 4th one today, so I am pretty tuckered out. My walk with Mom and Joey was the most productive - I found something called a "Bait Fish" which I guess is safer to have in my mouth than the cigarette butts I found while walking with Dad this morning. Anyhoo, it is time to head o

GRRRR - I am a bear today

2007-04-13T15:55:00.000-07:00

Mom and Dad and Joey took me for a walk in the woods today. I saw birds and squirrels and smelled pine trees and all sorts of interesting things. The most exciting part of the walk was being a bear. I got to do whatever bears do in the woods. My Dad chuckled when he said that. Mom rolled her eyes.

I have named the Critters!

2007-04-12T14:31:00.000-07:00

It took me a month, but I finally came up with suitable names for the critters: The one with the scratchy face is DAD (Drives A Dog - as in drives a dog to the pet store, grandma & grandpa's etc) and the one with the long hair is MOM (Measures Out Meals - my meals!). There is a slightly smaller critter in the house I call JOEY (Just One Extra Yummy- treat, that is) who is much fun to be around, but he listens to Dad too much and doesn't feed me from the table. Mom doesn't either. But, I am irresistably cute (whatever that means).

I discovered the best thing on this whole wide world - Provolone cheese! Dad dropped a piece on the floor and I think I got it before he noticed. As luck would have it, he put some in my Kong but the pieces were too big to come out so I spent a whole hour working on it while Dad and Joey were gone. The next time Dad did this I did a better job and got all the pieces out.

I played with a new toy today. I love it!

Gotta run (and run and run and run)

Ok, so this is a dog blog?

2007-04-11T08:38:00.000-07:00

Who ever said I was a dog? I don't bark (hardly ever), I don't shed, I get to sleep as much as I want - hmm, sounds rather catlike. OK, I am a dog. So there!

My name is Copper. I am a three-and-a-half month old Basenji. I have a cousin Riley, a cousin Cash, a cousin Gilda, and two grumpy uncles (actually, they are my cousins, but you wouldn't think so) named Huey and Crash. There is another one called Mouse - I don't know about that one. Also, there are a ton of two-legged critters that I like to be around - especially if they have kibbles, cantaloupe, apples, cheese (I love that stuff!!!), turkey bits (yum!) and Pupper-roni (I do anything for those!).

I really like the two legged critters who let me sleep on their laps when they aren't standing up. If they give me treats, that is even better. Strange thing is that I hear a clicking sound when they feed me for sitting, or peeing outside, or doing something called "Down." I have learned to sit at street corners (click and treat again), and to wait before going into the house (most of the time, anyway - click and treat again!). I get to sleep in a crate at night (it isn't so bad anymore) and I go into a warm bed with the critter with the scratchy face when the critter with the long hair goes into the room with the warm rain. This is the life!

I am taking classes at the Humane Society to learn how to be a puppy. I am the smallest in my class, except for Gus the Rat Terrier, my hero, who came to my rescue when the bigger dogs were pestering me too much. Otherwise, we are doing alot of fun tricks and getting lots of treats. I am getting by on my looks, I guess, although I don't really know what "cute" means.

Well, gotta go chew on something. I haven't gotten in too much trouble in the past 20 minutes or so (that string in the carpet was just irresistable!)

Take care!

Copper