Home » 2014 (Page 3)
Hooch now has his first winery visit under his belt! Cello’s dock diving practice was held at Detour Vineyard and Winery in Keymar, MD. Cello had already been to this winery when she participated in the PuppyPalooza dock diving event earlier this season.
Hooch enjoyed his first winery visit!
Detour Winery has some really unique-tasting wines! They also stock many local stores with their wines.
See all the places Cello has been HERE!
See all the things Hooch has done HERE!
See all the places Lager has been HERE!
See all the things Rita has done HERE!
See all the places Whiskey has been HERE!
See all the things Porter has done HERE!
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Here are a few sites I like to use to find dog-friendly places to go with Cello, Hooch, and Lager:
(1) BringFido.com :
BringFido.com has been providing pet friendly suggestions since April, 2005. BringFido.com is a dog travel directory that provides reviews, pet policy information, and online reservations at pet friendly hotels through a partnership with Travelocity. Information is also provided on bed & breakfasts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds that welcome pets in 150 countries worldwide. BringFido.com also provides information on both airlines and hotel pet policies, as well as recommendations on dog beaches, off-leash parks, outdoor restaurants, and other animal attractions in more than 10,000 cities around the world. Bring Fido has a toll-free number (877-411-FIDO) dog owners can call if they need assistance locating a a pet friendly hotel at the next exit on the highway, an animal hospital that’s open at 4am, or the best restaurant in the area that allows dogs to sit at its outdoor tables.
Some of the great reasons to use BringFido.com:
1. Bring Fido has confirmed the pet policy at every hotel listed on the website, so there won’t be any surprise pet fees, weight limits, or other restrictions when you check-in at the hotel. If you find a pet policy that is no longer accurate, you can contact them, and they will cover any additional pet fee you may have been charged.
2. Bring Fido does not charge a booking fee when you make a reservation. They guarantee that you’re getting the best rate available on all prepaid reservations. If you find a lower rate within 24 hours of booking, they will gladly refund the difference plus an additional $20.
3. You can choose a free gift every time you make a reservation online. Just visit the “freebies” page prior to booking to see the current offers and enter the appropriate gift code when making your reservation. They will ship your free t-shirt, sticker, or other gift as soon as you return home from the trip.
4. Bring Fido donates a portion of all proceeds to numerous pet charities, humane societies, and rescue groups every year. You can help save a homeless pet every time you reserve a hotel room through BringFido.com.
(2) DogFriendly.com :
DogFriendly.com has been helping humans share adventures with their canine kids since 1998. They have published world-wide pet travel guides for people with dogs of all sizes & breeds. City Guides show pet-friendly hotels, attractions, such as tours, stores & historical sites, campgrounds and parks,& off-leash parks, beaches, patio dining, skiing, and more. You can also view free listings, highway guides, the site’s blog, or their dog travel books/ebooks. You can even join their newsletter to find out about everything dog-friendly!
(3) Gopetfriendly.com:
GoPetFriendly.com has it all … you can search this site by category – such as pet friendly hotels, campgrounds, beaches, and parks… to veterinarians, pet supply stores – and even restaurants and wineries where your pup is welcome to join you. Everything you’ll want or need while you’re traveling across the US and Canada is here, all in one place. The site even has a Road Trip Planner that will map your trip and locate all the pet friendly places along the way. And if that isn’t enough – there is also a collection of approximately 30,000 consistent, detailed pet polices from hotels and campgrounds.
Cesar Millan has some great tips on his site for traveling with your dog:
Bringing your dog on vacation with you just adds to the fun and alleviates the worry of not knowing what’s happening with your dog while you’re on the road. You need to do your homework on dog travel though. Planes and cars aren’t designed with dogs in mind, and you need to know what to expect when you reach your final destination. By planning your dog travel ahead of time, you can make the vacation a truly relaxing time for you and your dog. Here are my best dog travel tips to help make that happen:
It’s natural to feel bad about crating your dog. After all, you wouldn’t want to be crated. But don’t project your feelings onto your dog. They don’t mind the crate and some even feel safer in one.
It’s usually a good idea to crate your dog when riding in the car. You’ll be less distracted while driving which is safer for both of you. It also prevents your dog from becoming a projectile if you have to stop fast, also reducing the chance of injury for both of you. Speaking of projectiles, don’t feed your dog a lot before the trip as they are prone to motion sickness. Don’t feed your dog while you’re moving either. Wait until there’s a break and you can give her a small snack, preferably high in protein. It’s also good to spend a little time playing or walking during the break to get rid of some pent-up energy. And of course, don’t leave your dog in a parked car, especially when it’s warm out. Even with the window cracked open, the car can quickly turn into an oven, and your dog will get dehydrated.
The first thing you need to do is check with the airline for their rules regarding pet travel. Many require a health certificate and may have other rules you haven’t thought of that you don’t want to be surprised with at the airport. Your dog will almost certainly be traveling in a crate and it will probably make everyone’s lives easier if you crate your dog before you enter the chaos of the airport.
As with car travel, it’s smart not to start the trip on a full stomach or blaadder (dogs should fast for at least 6 hours before the trip) and to make a pit stop as close to the departure time as possible. However, make sure your dog has access to water—enough to keep hydrated but not full.
If your dog isn’t flying with you in the main cabin, don’t have a big goodbye scene. You’ll only upset your dog. If you’re calm, he’ll be calm.
With almost as large a selection of pharmaceuticals as humans, it may be tempting to medicate your dog with a sedative or calmative for the trip. I don’t recommend medicating your dog. You don’t want to start a pattern that ends with a reliance on pills for you or your pet. You possess all the tools to keep your pet calm with your voice, attitude, and body language.
Make sure you bring your dog’s blankie or his favorite stuffed animal, toy, bone—any item which is familiar to your dog and will comfort and relax him. For a little extra calm, try rubbing a little lavender oil between your hands and give your pet a little aromatherapy or deep tissue massage at the beginning of your dog’s spine or base of her head.
As with flying, a little preemptive research is in order. Does the hotel you’re considering even allow pets? Better to find out before you arrive. Pet-welcoming hotels like Best Western will be prepared for your visit, and can even recommend parks, hikes, and other dog-friendly activities. At other hotels, the only thing fit for a dog is the Continental breakfast. It can also be embarrassing if your dog barks or howls in the new room. Don’t inadvertently encourage the barking with affection. Stay calm and assertive and take him out for some exercise to calm him.
A recently exercised dog will be in a more relaxed state during any long trip. Your dog may growl at strangers and that’s ok. It’s natural for your dog to be a little nervous around new people. She’s out of her element and may growl. This isn’t because she’s being aggressive, but because she’s a little freaked out and needs reassurance that everything’s under control. If you pull her away from the new person, you’re indicating that there is something wrong and she’ll freak out more. Again, be calm and assertive and show your dog that you’ve got it covered.
Now you are ready to go to your hotel room. Enter first. Get the dog to stay where he is. Don’t let him wander around or he’ll assume control of the situation. While you are unpacking, showering, or making phone calls, he is waiting. The only one who should move in the environment is you—until you are ready, then you initiate activity. It’s important that your scent is everywhere before the dog settles in.
You’re away from home and that means a lot of new sights, smells, sounds, and potential food items for your dog. Make sure you’re vigilant wherever you go about what’s around, especially in the area of things your dogs could ingest. Also, especially around the holidays, there may be a lot of lights, decorations, and snout-level treats that can be distracting or dangerous for your pooch. Keep an eye on him and the new place.
Find a good substitute pack. In a kennel, your dog should be immediately adopted as a member of the pack. The staff should be able to get your dog focused on what is there for him – and not leave him mourning over the fact that you left. It is a big deal for a dog to detach himself from a pack. The new pack should equal or better the pack he just left. Traveling with a dog can be a fun experience for both of you. Just remember to be as prepared as possible wherever you go. The more homework you do on dog travel, the fewer surprises there will be. Don’t forget to make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and above all, of course, be calm and assertive. A balanced dog makes the best travel companion.
See Cello, The Happy GLAMper HERE!
See Hooch, The Happy Camper HERE!
See Lager, The Camping Canine Commander in Chief HERE!
See Rita, The RV Rover camping adventures HERE!
See Whiskey The Weekend Warrior HERE!
See Portable Porter’s adventure’s HERE!
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Petfinder.com offeres these great tips for camping with your dog:
Before You Leave for Your Trip
Talk to your veterinarian and make sure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on all required vaccinations, particularly rabies. Ask your vet whether your dog should be vaccinated against Lyme disease, a tick-borne disease. Discuss appropriate flea and tick control. Be sure your dog is protected against heartworms, which are transmitted by mosquito bite and have been reported in all 50 states, according to the American Heartworm Society. Check to see whether the camping area allows dogs, and familiarize yourself with the rules for pets at the site.
Have an appropriate collar or harness with an identification tag. Use a cell phone number where you can be reached at all times, not a home phone number, on the tag. Microchipping your dog will provide an additional measure of protection in the event that your dog becomes lost. Register the microchip – or make sure the information is up to date if your dog already has a chip — so that you can be contacted when your dog is located.
Packing for Your Dog
Bring water for your dog to drink if a water supply is not available at the campsite. Do not allow your dog to drink out of standing bodies of water. Your dog should continue to eat his regular diet during the trip; pack enough food and treats to last for your entire stay. Pack a food dish and water bowl. Bring bedding and toys to keep your dog occupied as well. Take a copy of your dog’s health records and vaccination reports, especially important if you are crossing state lines. Other essential items include a leash and collar or harness, a carrier or other means to confine your dog when necessary, bags to pick up your dog’s waste, a first aid kit and any medications your dog takes regularly.
What To Do with Your Dog While Camping
Once at the camping ground, keep your dog on a leash or otherwise confined so that other campers are not disturbed and your dog is not at risk for becoming lost or injured. Be aware of keeping your dog away from things such as campfires and cooking utensils that can cause injury. A “leave it” command is also useful in case your dog begins to explore or picks up something dangerous in his mouth. Keep your dog close to you during your camping expedition. If you are unable to supervise your dog, be sure he is properly confined. Do not leave your dog confined in a closed car or tied to a stationary object though. Provide a carrier, crate, or portable fencing unit instead. While camping, check your dog’s fur and skin regularly for ticks as well as for plant material like thorns or burrs. Plant materials should be brushed free of your dog’s hair, if possible. In some situations, cutting or shaving the hair may be necessary to remove these items. Remove Ticks promptly by grasping the tick near the skin and pulling gently and slowly away from the skin. Wear gloves when doing so. Do not handle ticks with bare hands as they can transmit diseases to you as well as to your dog.
Active.com also had some great tips for camping with your dog:
Before you go camping with a dog, it’s important to know where the closest 24 hour vet is. Though you never expect a medical emergency, a rattlesnake bite, for example, needs immediate attention. Simply having this information on hand will bring you peace of mind during the trip.
The chance of a tick landing on your dog is relatively high. Be sure to buy tick medication before taking a dog camping to protect against the pests you can’t control. Remember, some flea medications do not cover ticks so make sure Fido has coverage; you can check with your vet about this before heading out. It’s also important you know how to get a tick off in case one does land. Ask your vet to show you how to remove it, or buy tick removal gear.
Don’t forget to bring an extra leash, collar, dog meds, food and treats. If your dog has short hair, consider a thermal jacket or something to keep him warm. Also, bring a bed, towel or pillow for your pet to sleep on.
Before you take a dog camping, consider how it will affect your hiking plans. Remember, many state parks forbid dogs on the trails. Don’t let your weekend be ruled by “No Dogs Allowed” signs, and be sure to check all of the rules before you depart.
Though your dog is active on a regular basis, he may not be prepared for a 6-mile hike, or longer. Don’t risk taking him on a trip he can’t handle. Instead, take a few practice hikes beforehand. Try to find treks that is similar in terrain and required effort. Camping with a dog is a no-brainer for families with pets. But, be sure to research the area and ask other dog owners for their suggestions to ensure your family and your pup have the best experience.
Two of my favorite dog-friendly sites to use while camping are:
(1) BringFido.com :
BringFido.com has been providing pet friendly suggestions since April, 2005. BringFido.com is a dog travel directory that provides reviews, pet policy information, and online reservations at pet friendly hotels through a partnership with Travelocity. Information is also provided on bed & breakfasts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds that welcome pets in 150 countries worldwide. BringFido.com also provides information on both airlines and hotel pet policies, as well as recommendations on dog beaches, off-leash parks, outdoor restaurants, and other animal attractions in more than 10,000 cities around the world. Bring Fido has a toll-free number (877-411-FIDO) dog owners can call if they need assistance locating a a pet friendly hotel at the next exit on the highway, an animal hospital that’s open at 4am, or the best restaurant in the area that allows dogs to sit at its outdoor tables.
Some of the great reasons to use BringFido.com:
1. Bring Fido has confirmed the pet policy at every hotel listed on the website, so there won’t be any surprise pet fees, weight limits, or other restrictions when you check-in at the hotel. If you find a pet policy that is no longer accurate, you can contact them, and they will cover any additional pet fee you may have been charged.
2. Bring Fido does not charge a booking fee when you make a reservation. They guarantee that you’re getting the best rate available on all prepaid reservations. If you find a lower rate within 24 hours of booking, they will gladly refund the difference plus an additional $20.
3. You can choose a free gift every time you make a reservation online. Just visit the “freebies” page prior to booking to see the current offers and enter the appropriate gift code when making your reservation. They will ship your free t-shirt, sticker, or other gift as soon as you return home from the trip.
4. Bring Fido donates a portion of all proceeds to numerous pet charities, humane societies, and rescue groups every year. You can help save a homeless pet every time you reserve a hotel room through BringFido.com.
(2) DogFriendly.com :
DogFriendly.com has been helping humans share adventures with their canine kids since 1998. They have published world-wide pet travel guides for people with dogs of all sizes & breeds. City Guides show pet-friendly hotels, attractions, such as tours, stores & historical sites, campgrounds and parks,& off-leash parks, beaches, patio dining, skiing, and more. You can also view free listings, highway guides, the site’s blog, or their dog travel books/ebooks. You can even join their newsletter to find out about everything dog-friendly!
Countries Visited:
States Visited:
Hooch’s first “Been There/Done That” post! 🙂
On the first of many-to-come traveling adventures for this little GSP, Hooch crossed back and forth over the Mason-Dixon line while traveling to and from Round Top Campground (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania) and Cello’s dock diving practice at Detour Winery (Keymar, MD). Cello already had this “Been There/Done That” post under her belt when she participated in the PuppyPalooza dock diving event earlier this season.
This was the sign in the median to show travelers where the actual Mason-Dixon Line is:
Don’t know what the Mason-Dixon Line is? Encylcopedia Britannica gives a great description:
“Mason and Dixon Line, also called Mason-Dixon Line, originally the boundary between Maryland and Pennsylvania in the United Sates. In the pre-Civil War period it was regarded, together with the Ohio River, as the dividing line between slave states south of it and free-soil states north of it. Between 1763 and 1767 the 233-mile (375-kilometer) line was surveyed along the parallel 39°43′ by two Englishmen, Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon, to define the long-disputed boundaries of the overlapping land grants of the Penns, proprietors of Pennsylvania, and the Calverts, proprietors of Maryland. Mason and Dixon also surveyed much of the disputed boundary between Maryland and the territory of Delaware, which had been acquired by William Penn. The term “Mason and Dixon Line” was first used in congressional debates leading to the Missouri Compromise (1820). Today the Mason and Dixon Line still serves figuratively as the political and social dividing line between the North and the South.”
Map of the Mason-Dixon Line
Round Top Campground is located in Gettysburg, PA. We stayed at this campground for Cello’s dock diving practice hosted by Chesapeake DockDogs at Detour Winery.
This campground has some great theme-based weekends planned for their campers. The weekend we stayed here it was “Christmas in July!”
Our campsite at Round Top was spacious. 
Round Top Campground was recently voted Good Sam top rated RV park for 2014. This park offers many amenities to their campers such as an Olympic size pool (with separate kiddie pool), store/gift shop, 18-hole mini golf, horseshoes, volleyball, basketball, shuffleboard, laundry room, game room, and outdoor movie theater, just to name some!
This was Hooch’s first camping trip… and he was a happy camper!
See the states Cello has been to by clicking HERE!
See the states Hooch has been to by clicking HERE!
See the states (AND countries!) Lager has been to by clicking HERE!
See the states Margarita has been to by clicking HERE!
See the states Whiskey has been to by clicking HERE!
See the states Porter has been to by clicking HERE!
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Picture courtesy of BringFido.com
Like to travel with Fido? We do! Cello, Hooch, and Lager will go with us everywhere we can take them!
A few of my favorite dog-friendly sites to use while traveling are:
(1) BringFido.com :
BringFido.com has been providing pet friendly suggestions since April, 2005. BringFido.com is a dog travel directory that provides reviews, pet policy information, and online reservations at pet friendly hotels through a partnership with Travelocity. Information is also provided on bed & breakfasts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds that welcome pets in 150 countries worldwide. BringFido.com also provides information on both airlines and hotel pet policies, as well as recommendations on dog beaches, off-leash parks, outdoor restaurants, and other animal attractions in more than 10,000 cities around the world. Bring Fido has a toll-free number (877-411-FIDO) dog owners can call if they need assistance locating a pet friendly hotel at the next exit on the highway, an animal hospital that’s open at 4am, or the best restaurant in the area that allows dogs to sit at its outdoor tables.
Some of the great reasons to use BringFido.com:
1. Bring Fido has confirmed the pet policy at every hotel listed on the website, so there won’t be any surprise pet fees, weight limits, or other restrictions when you check-in at the hotel. If you find a pet policy that is no longer accurate, you can contact them, and they will cover any additional pet fee you may have been charged.
2. Bring Fido does not charge a booking fee when you make a reservation. They guarantee that you’re getting the best rate available on all prepaid reservations. If you find a lower rate within 24 hours of booking, they will gladly refund the difference plus an additional $20.
3. You can choose a free gift every time you make a reservation online. Just visit the “freebies” page prior to booking to see the current offers and enter the appropriate gift code when making your reservation. They will ship your free t-shirt, sticker, or other gift as soon as you return home from the trip.
4. Bring Fido donates a portion of all proceeds to numerous pet charities, humane societies, and rescue groups every year. You can help save a homeless pet every time you reserve a hotel room through BringFido.com.
(2) DogFriendly.com :
DogFriendly.com has been helping humans share adventures with their canine kids since 1998. They have published world-wide pet travel guides for people with dogs of all sizes & breeds. City Guides show pet-friendly hotels, attractions, such as tours, stores & historical sites, campgrounds and parks,& off-leash parks, beaches, patio dining, skiing, and more. You can also view free listings, highway guides, the site’s blog, or their dog travel books/ebooks. You can even join their newsletter to find out about everything dog-friendly!
(3) Gopetfriendly.com:
GoPetFriendly.com has it all … you can search this site by category – such as pet friendly hotels, campgrounds, beaches, and parks… to veterinarians, pet supply stores – and even restaurants and wineries where your pup is welcome to join you. Everything you’ll want or need while you’re traveling across the US and Canada is here, all in one place. The site even has a Road Trip Planner that will map your trip and locate all the pet friendly places along the way. And if that isn’t enough – there is also a collection of approximately 30,000 consistent, detailed pet polices from hotels and campgrounds.
Happy Travels!
Hooch’s mom, “Shoal Branch Ladybird”
Hooch’s Dad, “FC Sky High Regardless”
Cello’s Mom, “Shoal Branch Ladybird”
Cello’s Dad, “Intrepid Spirit Regardless”
This week I made it 2 hours in my crate with no accidents, and I am starting to look at my mommy and daddy when I go potty, since I know a treat and “party” is held after every time I “go!”
The day we met Hooch he was 7 weeks old!
Weight: 6 lbs
See Hooch’s Canine Parents HERE!
Watch Hooch Grow HERE!
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Windy Spot’s Homemade Hooch
“Hooch”
German Shorthaired Pointer
Birthday: May 24, 2014
“Our Little Nugget”, “Hoochie Coochie”
When we found out that Limoncello’s mother had another litter, we could not help but go visit her, and see the puppies.
On May 24, 2014, Cello’s Mom, Shoal Branch Ladybird (“Lady”) gave birth to 10 puppies… we are now the proud parents of one of them!
Cello and Hooch’s mom, “Shoal Branch Ladybird” (Lady)
Hooch’s Dad, “FC Sky High Regardless”
Introducing “Windy Spot’s Homemade Hooch!” (Hooch for short!):
Why “Windy Spot’s Homemade Hooch?” When we bought our log home, Brian was able to search back to the original deed of the home and find the first owner of our cabin, which was built in 1927. Brian google-searched the man’s name for the heck of it, and his search brought up a link for the English Setters Club in Medford, NJ. The first owner of our home owned an award-winning GSP (which is how we ended up wanting a GSP), and Windy Spot was the name of that first dog and award winning GSP that lived in our home. We named our cabin Windy Spot, after that GSP, before we even met Cello. Read about our story here!
Hooch climbed right into Brian’s lap…and the rest is history!
Puppy Kisses:
The name “Windy Spot’s Homemade Hooch” … Incorporates the name of the first dog/GSP that lived here, and also refers to Limoncello being the “Hooch” that we make here at our cabin, Windy Spot… AND connects his name to Cello’s too 🙂
Welcome home, Hooch!
A week or so ago, I saw this yummy recipe on Dog Treat Kitchen. Tonight I decided to bake these treats for Cello. Cello is currently on a grain-free diet, so I knew I had to alter the ingredients a bit. I decided I would exclude the rolled oats in the original recipe, and substitute Buckwheat flour for the whole wheat flour also listed in the original recipe.
At the same time I was preparing to bake some treats, I also decided to boil my usual batch of hard-boiled eggs for my breakfast, and for Cello’s weekly dinner additive. Perhaps doing two things at once was not such a good idea!
…Figuring I was being super-productive getting the eggs and biscotti done simultaneously, I was too focused on rushing, and was not attentive enough to the biscotti ingredient preparations! After I had already started boiling the eggs, I reviewed the ingredients for the biscotti. …OOPS! …
The recipe called for 2 eggs – and now I was all out. I Google searched what I could substitute for eggs, and was pleasantly surprised to find that 1/4 cup of applesauce could be substituted for each egg in most backing recipes. As luck would have it, I had some organic, unsweetened applesauce in the fridge (PHEW!!)… turns out, my mistake blossomed into a blessing…the biscotti turned out great!! They were nice-and-sweet with the added apple sauce!
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Cello and Hooch approve…hope your pooch does too! “Bone” Appetit !
Tommy D’s Limoncello (“Cello”)
Why a GSP? …Brian and I bought our dream home in April of 2009. A log cabin on a lake… only it didn’t quite “look” like a log cabin – – and, it wasn’t quite in “dream-home” state when we bought it (see Cello’s Cabin page). Our goal is to restore this historic log cabin to its original state, and to fill it with decorations and mementos of the great town we live in, as well as items that would be relevant to the cabin and it’s history. Brian works in the mortgage industry, and was able to research back to the original deed of our home. Brian was able to find out that the log home was built in 1927, and also discovered the name of the original owner. Out of curiosity, Brian Google-searched the man’s name. Low and behold, he came up in the search! The search result that came up was linked to the English Setters Club, a local and nationally known club that conducts field trials that are open to all pointing breeds. The original owner of our home owned a German Shorthaired Pointer, named “Windy Spot,” who won many awards at the club for field trials. I called the club to see if I could get more information on this dog and his owner, or a picture of them that we could hang in our cabin. When the man from the club called me back, and I explained my story, the other end of the phone was silent. When I asked if he was “still there,” he asked me to repeat where I lived – what street – what house, etc… come to find out, this man I was speaking to was a direct family member of the man who built our log cabin back in 1927!! Needless to say, it was quite an interesting conversation! Brian and I immediately researched German Shorthaired Pointers online, and fell in love with the GSP breed, and all their characteristics. We knew a GSP would be the perfect addition to our lifestyle, our family, and our log home. We have named our log cabin “Windy Spot,” after the first dog that ever lived in our home!
Brian and I were visiting a family member in West Creek, NJ on Memorial day weekend 2011, when they mentioned that they saw a post at at the local hardware store that there was a litter of German Shorthaired Pointers available not far from us. This litter was born on March 14, 2011, on a South Jersey farm in the town of Chatsworth. Brian and I became lucky parents of Cello on Monday, May 31, 2011 (Memorial Day), when decided to stop to talk to the man about his litter and knowledge of German Shorthaired Pointers. When we pulled up to the property, the owner opened up the barn doors, and out came 3 of the most adorable GSP puppies! One of them jumped right into Brian’s arms – we knew immediately she was coming home with us!
Can you pick out Cello in this pic?!
Cello is the ultimate water dog! If there is water in site, Cello must find her way into it…! Her entire body shivers with excitement with the site of water to jump into or lay in! Luckily we live on a lake, so she gets plenty of swimming and dock-diving time! We also keep a baby pool in the yard for her to lay in when she is not in “lake-mode.” She is also obsessed with soccer balls!! She has an outstanding personality, bringing smiles to people’s faces everywhere we go!
Why “Cello”? (pronounced CHELLO) …Cello’s full name is “Tommy D’s Limoncello.” Tommy D was my Italian grandfather (my mother’s father), who passed away in 2007. He was quite the character to say the least, and was “famous” among his family and friends for his homemade Limoncello, with his “secret” recipe. Before he passed, “Pop Pop Tommy,” revealed his “secret” recipe. Brian, as well as other family members, have been carrying on the tradition of making homemade Limoncello ever since. Read all about Tommy D’s Limoncello HERE!
Tommy DiRenzo
Jenny and “Pop Pop Tommy”
Cello’s first day home:
Loki
Tabby Cat
Birthday: March 18, 2002 – May 17, 2017
“FatCat,”… “PhatCat”
We miss you every day, little buddy!
Loki (appropriately named after the Norse god of mischief) is our 21 pound FatCat…or PHATcat 🙂 … he gave us a glimpse of what it would be like to have a pet walrus 😉 …I called him “big boned”…Brian called him “severely overweight.” He was always in one of 3 modes: sleeping, begging for food, or trying to lay on us in any way possible! He had never known any other animal but dogs, and truly believed he was one…just one that was capable of getting on the counters! GSP’s are not generally good around cats. However, Loki was bigger than Cello when she came home, and he was not shy about letting Cello know that! Over time they had become loving siblings, and play-buddies. They could often be seen playing together or sleeping together. Loki actually made sure he was touching Cello in some way anytime he snuggled up to go to bed…sometimes he reached out with his paw and placed it on Cello. They were the best of friends!
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Loki and Min Pin, Dante :
Loki and Dante always snuggled together.
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Loki and Min Pin, Cleopatra :
Loki and Cleopatra rarely sat close together – but every once in a while they would find a good sun spot to share.
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The day Cello and Loki met:
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Cello and Loki loved to lay together:
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Loki graciously allowed Margarita to use him as a pillow when she first arrived at our home as our foster dog, “Penelope.”
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Loki the Cheshire Cat 😉
Cleopatra
“Cleo”
Miniature Pinscher
April 23, 1999 to September 17, 2012
We miss you dearly, “Little Peepers!”
If “little man” syndrome had ever applied to a dog, that would be our “Little Peepers,” Cleopatra! She was 150 pounds of guard dog in a 7 pound body. The treasure she was guarding was her Mama. She was my shadow, and constant friend. Cleopatra also had a big heart and soft-spot for her brother, Dante and her PaPa, but would only show them when I wasn’t home! She was one of the sweetest and funniest dogs you could ever meet (IF you were ME that is! …to most people she mostly only showed her “sassy” side!) Cello loved to “play” with Cleopatra….which Cleopatra did not find as entertaining as Cello did. However that never deterred Cello’s desire to love her sister. Cello was the playful sister that Cleopatra loved, but sometimes never wanted! Cleopatra will always hold a special place in our hearts. We love and miss her every day.
Cello and Cleopatra:
Cleopatra as a puppy:
One of my favorite pictures of Cleopatra:
Cleopatra and Brian canoeing on our lake:
Dante’s Inferno
“Dante”
Miniature Pinscher
January 6, 1996 – August 11, 2011
We miss you dearly, our “Little Boody”
Dante… the ultimate sick-day buddy would lay in bed with us for 24 hours if need be! He was our constant companion, and loving friend. What he lacked in energy he made up in heart. He loved naps in the sun, and laying on the couch watching sports with Brian. Date was also very good at letting us know when dinner time was…OR an hour before with his signature “tap dance” – -a sight to behold! He is missed and loved everyday, and was fondly nicknamed our “little Boody.” Unfortunately, Dante was very, very ill when we got Cello. However, he perked-up when “puppy Cello” came home, and was able to enjoy Cello’s energy for a short while before passing in August of 2011. Even though Cello was a “wild-child,” she always knew how to be gentle with Dante.
Cello and Dante:
Dante as a puppy:
One of my favorite pictures of Dante:
The Dog Days of Summer are here… How will you cool off your pooch?
(Pic from BringFido.com)
The Dog Days of Summer are upon us! With the onset of the heat and humidity, I’ve been asked recently by several different people where they could take their dog swimming to cool them off on hot summer days. This question got me thinking 3 things right off the bat:
(1) I need to appreciate where we live a bit more:
Cello is very lucky to have direct access to our lake to take her daily swims:
…and to play in the water alone or with friends…
…and to do what she loves most – dock diving!
(2) Just where in New Jersey CAN you take your dog to cool off if you do not have access to a pool, or other safe, clean body of water that is also in a dog friendly area?? Luckily, our good friend, and fellow GSP Rescue of NJ buddy, Ally, had done some of the work for me in a post she included on the GSP Rescue of NJ FaceBook page (Thanks, Ally!!)
…and …
(3) What can you do to keep your dog cool on a daily basis during the heat of the summer?
Before I include some suggestions for some dog-friendly swimming holes in New Jersey, and how to keep your pup cool in the heat, I wanted to share just why people say “Dog Days of Summer.” Being a dog-lover, I began to wonder why people chose this particular phrase. If you thought it was just a made-up saying like I did, think again! Thanks to The Weather Channel, and a little research, I found out what this term REALLY means, and where it originated. This term dates back to ancient times! “diēs caniculārēs,” or “days of the dogs” / “days of the dogs,” was what ancient people referred to as the period from the first week of July, to the second week of August.
Now that explains where the phrase originated, and when it started…but one still might ask, “Why dogs?” …Ever hear of the constellation, Orion?
Orion is often referred to as “The Hunter,” and is a noticeable constellation observable throughout the world. Close to Orion is the constellation Canis Major, which is Latin for “greater dog.” According to constellation fables, Canis Major is one of Orion’s hunting dogs.
Located within Canis Major is a star named Sirius, also known as the “Dog Star.” With the exception of our sun, Sirius is THE brightest star detectable from Earth. The vivid, blue-white star’s name originates from the Greek word for “searing.”
Because Sirius is so intense, it was effortless to trace, even for primitive astronomers. During April and early May, Sirius is evident in the southwest skies only after sunset. However, by the time mid-summer arrives, Sirius rises and falls with the sun. This would cause Sirius to “get lost” in the daytime skies. Nevertheless, the our ancestors knew that the “Dog Star” was still present in the sky, along with the sun, during the hottest time of the year. These primitive astronomers reasoned that since Sirius was so bright, and present in the sky with the sun, it must be contributing to the heat to produce the hottest time of the year.
Now what the ancient astronomers did not know, is that although Sirius is very vibrant, (according to Dr. Jon Nese, Penn State University professor, and former storm analyst for The Weather Channel, “Sirius is very luminous; if it suddenly replaced our sun, daylight on Earth would be about 25 times brighter than it is now)”… it’s energy (heat) does not affect Earth as much as the sun. Also, in spite of it’s brilliance, Sirius is also about half a million times farther away from Earth than our sun. As it turns out, our ancestors were not exact in their reasoning, but sure provided us with a cool saying for the hottest time of the year…and hey, it has to do with dogs – what’s cooler than that ?! 😉
OK, enough of the astronomy lesson, and onto WHERE you can bring your pup during the Dog Days of Summer. New Jersey is well-known for its beaches, so thanks to rescue pal, Ally, and the sweet, gorgeous Eve (a senior rescue!) here is a list of dog-friendly beaches in New Jersey in case you are vacationing at the Jersey Shore, or live close enough to drive to one of the beaches.
Eve enjoying a day at one of the dog-friendly beaches in New Jersey:
If you are not fond of the beach, here are two dog parks that I know of that also have a creek or lake for the dogs to swim in:
Timber Creek Dog Park, located at Chews Landing Rd and Somerdale Rd in Blackwood, NJ:
and Freedom Park, located at 86 Union Street, Medford, NJ:
Can’t get to a beach or other dog-friendly swimming area? Cello has some hot summer tips to keep cool during the Dog Days of Summer:
(Timothy A. Clary/AFP/Getty Images
5. Buy a baby pool! Cello loves hers!
(Flickr/bigbirdz)
If you see a dog left alone in a hot car, write down the car’s color, model, make, and license plate number. If the car is parked outside of a store, have the owner paged in the nearest buildings. If you cannot locate the owner immediately, call local humane authorities or police. Have someone keep an eye on the dog, and don’t leave the scene until the situation has been resolved. If the authorities are unresponsive, or too slow, and the dog’s life appears to be in imminent danger, find a witness (or several) who will back up your assessment, take steps to remove the suffering animal from the car, and then wait for authorities to arrive. Each state’s animal protection laws are different – get to know your sate’s laws HERE.
Most of all – don’t let these Dog Days of Summer get you or your pooch down…take advantage of the heat and spend some time cooling off with Fido, and doing some fun, bonding activities (like swimming) with your pup! Have fun, and keep cool!
Know any dog-friendly swimming areas in your state – or have some tips on how to keep dogs cool during the Dog Days of Summer? Please comment and share!
This weekend Cello participated in Codorus Blast dock diving event, in Hanover, Pennsylvania, hosted by Keystone DockDogs. This event was held in Codorus State Park.
This dock was set up right in the Lake Marburg!
This was an especially exciting event for us! Cello set a new personal best – not once, but THREE times this weekend as she soared 23′ 1″ then 23′ 6″ then 23′ 7″ !! How awesome is that?! These were all Elite jumps (one division higher than her current Master division title). Elite jumpers jump between 23′ and 24’11”. She even qualified for the Elite Division Finals, and finished 4th against some HUGE jumping dogs! We are so proud of her! Brian and I were recapping our weekend, and we were just amazed at Cello’s improvement since her first-ever dock diving event just 9 months ago.
We had a great weekend hanging out in our little “tent city” with great people we have met through dock diving! Lots of members of Chesapeake DockDogs and Keystone Dockdogs were in attendance.
Uncle Johnny and Aunt Joyce even came to cheer on Cello!
Cello in Slo-Mo!
Cello’s results from Codorus Blast:
Friday:
20′ 4″ 23′ 6″ First Place Division Elite Medal **Her FIRST Elite Division Medal and new personal best!!!
Saturday:
21′ 3″ 23′ 1″ First Place Division Elite Medal
23′ 6” 22’11” First Place Division Elite Medal
23′ 0 23′ 7″ First Place Division Elite Medal **New personal best!!
Sunday:
22′ 8″ 22′ 9″ Third Place Masters Division Medal
22′ 0″ 22′ 0″ First Place Masters Division Medal
Finals: Cello was in her first Elite Division Finals!!
22′ 8″ 22′ 3″ Fourth Place Elite Division Ribbon
Cello and her Codorus Blast Bling:
Although we missed them dearly at this event, our friends Lisa, Ryan, Millie, and Addison had an amazing weekend as well! They attended an event in Maine, were Millie (Marvelous Millie, as I like to call her!) not only won 1st place in the Elite Division finals with a HUGE jump of 24’7 – but Millie and Ryan also got an invitation for the World Championship in Iowa in November! We are SO happy for them, and so very proud of them both!!
What a fun and exciting weekend!!
For Cello’s Codorus Blast Dock Diving Event, we camped at Codorus State Park in Hanover, PA. Located in York County, this park boasts a gorgeous 1,275 acre lake, where many come to fish and picnic. Codorus State Park also offers many other recreational activities such as horseback riding, swimming, scuba diving, boating, hunting, and disc golf.
This park was big, clean, gorgeous, and the staff was more than friendly. The sites were level and spacious, and included a fire ring. The facilities were very clean, and within walking distance to our site.
While participating in the Celebrate Fairfax dock diving event, Cello camped at Prince William Forrest RV Campground.
This campground has paved sites, restrooms, shower houses, laundry facilities, a playground, and a pool. There is even a Giant chess/checkers game in the campground!
If you look at the map, we stayed on site F14
The bathrooms were extremely clean, and the staff was more than friendly. If you stay at this campground, be sure to ask about fire rings – some sites have them, and others do not.
Cello had earned her Club Level Big Air Masters Title earlier this season. She has now earned her Big Air Masters Title at the National level!!
In honor of both Cello and Millie earning a new personal best, Team Millie invited us out to celebrate at Capital City Brewing Company in Arlington, Virginia.
Capital City Brewing company first opened in 1992 in our nation’s capitol as Washington DC’s first brew pup since prohibition. We visited the Arlington location, located at the Village of Shirlington, on Campbell Avenue in Arlington, VA.
We enjoyed some of Capital City’s signature beer and some delicious food from their menu, as we toasted to Millie and Cello!
Cello, Addison, and Millie hanging out at Capital Brewing Company:
Cello’s first National dock diving event was held this past weekend at the Celebrate Fairfax Festival in Fairfax, VA. Celebrate Fairfax is Northern Virginia’s largest community-wide celebration. The festival was held at the 25 acre Fairfax County Government Center.
It was a great event! Lots of people we have met over the past year were also in attendance, and we had a blast hanging out together! Also, Cello jumped a NEW Personal Best of 23′ 2″ (YAY!!!) This jump placed her in the Pro Division Finals, jumping against some of the longest jumping dogs in DockDogs!!
Our Dock Diving Diva in action!
Here are Cello’s results from this event:
Saturday:
21′ 7″ 21’7″ First Place Masters Division medal
23′ 2″ 21′ Third Place Elite Division medal (***Cello’s new personal best and first Elite Division jump and medal!)
19′ 8″ 20′ 10” Second Place Masters Division medal
Cello with her first ever Elite Division Medal for her 23′ 2″ jump:
Sunday:
16′ 7″ 21′ 11 First Place Masters Division medal
21′ 1” 20′ 9″ First Place Masters Division medal
PRO Division Finals:
22′ 6″ 22′ 3″ Sixth Place Pro Division Medal
Cello with all her “bling:”
We are so proud of Cello!
Friends Jaycee and Duke, members of Chesapeake DockDogs, hung out with us throughout the weekend.
Cello gives “kisses” her new boyfriend, Phantom, a Dutch Shepherd:
Both Jaycee and Duke jumped Phantom this weekend.
Jaycee and Phantom:
Duke and Phantom:
We also got to hang out all weekend with Keystone DockDogs friends, Ryan and Lisa, and their dogs (Cello’s girlfriends), Millie and Addison. Addison may just be Cello’s new BFF! 😉
Addison and Cello’s shenanigans in between jumps:
Girlfriend Millie FLEW off the dock this weekend, and impressed us all:
Millie earned herself a new Personal Best this weekend of 24′ 8″ (WOW!!!). She placed 3rd in the Pro finals also! GO MILLIE!
We also had the pleasure of seeing fellow Delmarva DockDog members Joan and Dee this weekend! Here they are in action:
Joan and Georgi Girl:
Dee and LuLu:
We saw so many other DockDogs members that we got to know at the last event, and other past events – and even met more people at this event. We have met so many nice people since we have been involved with this sport! We are really excited to see everyone at future events!
Cello participated in the PuppyPalooza Dock Diving Contest Hosted by Chesapeake Dock Dogs at Detour Winery in Keymar, MD.
For this event, we stayed at Granite Hill Campground in Gettysburg, PA, as this was the closest full-hookup campground to the winery.
Granite Hill is located on a 150 acre Civil War Era farm.
The campground had a cute “Red Shed Cafe” that offered breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Cello crossed over the Mason Dixon Line to get to and from the PuppyPalooza dock diving event!
Detour Winery is located in Keymar, Md. We drove on some really beautiful country roads to get there. The winery provided free tastings of their wines for the dock dogs participants, and offered wine by the bottle or glass for sale. They were also selling a really cool wine “sippy cup” that I just HAD to have…!
This was the first contest that we have attended where the dock was set up into a pond instead of a pool.
Although it started out as NOT Cello’s weekend, she wrapped it up nicely with a spot in the finals, and earned Second Place in the Masters Division Finals with a jump of 22’8″, just one inch shy of her personal best.
Cello’s results from PuppyPalooza were as follows:
Day 1, Saturday, May 31
19′ 11″ 18′ 8″ Cello did not place in this wave.
17′ 7″ 19′ 6″ Cello did not place in this wave.
18′ 9″ 20′ 8″ 2nd place Masters Division ribbon
Day 2, Sunday, June 1
21′ 19′ 11″ 4th place Masters Division (no ribbon)
21′ 6″ 21′ 4″ 3rd place Masters Division ribbon
Masters Division Finals
22′ 22′ 8″ 2nd place Masters Division Finalist (ribbon, prize bucket, $50 cash prize)
Cello and her proud PaPa accepting their awards:
The Masters Finalists 6th place to first place, Left to right:
Congratulations, Cello and Brian!
2nd Place Masters Division Finalist, 21′ 8″
The Rusty Nail (“The Nail”, as it’s known by the locals) is a well-known legendary surfer bar that dates back to the 70’s. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner at The Nail, and of course, host an incredible happy hour with live music. Kids meals are served on a souvenir Beach Shack Frisbee, creating something for the little ones to do after they finish their meal and are waiting for the adults. There is indoor seating, outdoor picnic table seating, a fire pit, sand pit, and shuffleboard – this place has it all! Even the four-legged kids are welcome here!…and not only are dogs welcome, they have their very own Doggie Menu!
From the Doggie Menu, Cello enjoyed a Bowser Beer for starters, and a Nail Burger for dinner!
From the regular menu, Brian and I ordered the Baja Grilled Fish Tacos and the Jersey Style Lobster Hoagie to share. 🙂
Jessie Creek Winery was such a pleasant surprise! A couple who we ran into at a winery earlier in the day had told us that they did not like the wine here, nor was the staff friendly. Luckily, we decided to form our own opinion, and stop at this winery for a tasting. At Jessie Creek, the vineyard is harvested and processed on site by hand.
Not only was the girl presenting the tasting extremely nice, but the owner (seen far right in the above picture) was super friendly, and very interesting to speak with. He gave us lots of information on all of the wines we were tasting, and was a joy to converse with. The wine tasting was only $5, and included a taste of all of their wines, and a souvenir Jessie Creek wine glass to take home!
After our tasting, we enjoyed a glass of our favorite wine from the tasting on their porch with friends, Brandi and Stan.
The property also has a beautiful farm house built in 1846 that has been converted into a bed and breakfast.
I am so glad we all decided to stop at this vineyard despite what we were told!
Again, a recommended winery to stop at while in the Cape May area!
Cello visited Natali Vineyards during our stay in Cape May.
The winery was setting up for a festival when we were arriving.
Even through they were getting ready for a big event later that day, everyone at the winery was helpful, friendly, and laid-back! The people here are super-friendly (very dog-friendly too!), and very knowledgeable about their wines and what foods to pair them with. Natali offers a variety of wines – some really unique, such as strawberry, plum, cherry, peach, blueberry, cranberry, and banana wine!
We learned a lot about their wines as we participated in their wine tasting, before enjoying a glass of wine on their outdoor patio with friends, Brandi and Stan.
We would definitely recommend a visit to this winery if you are ever in the Cape May area!
CHEERS!
Willow Creek Winery is a 50 acre vineyard located in Cape May, NJ. They offer a variety of wines, including red and white sangria.
The grounds are gorgeous!
We enjoyed a glass of the sangria with friends, Brandi and Stan, out on the patio at Willow Creek.
Light fare and tapas are offered here for purchasing and enjoying either in the tasting room, or out on the patio. An outdoor bar at the patio is almost completed, where they plan to serve wine slushies… YUM!
After a hard-days-work of being a donation dog at Working Dog Winery, Cello made a stop for some dinner…we were all hungry!! PJ Whelihan’s was the perfect place to grab a bite to eat!
PJ Whelihan’s is located in Medford Lakes, NJ, a 1.2 square mile town with 22 lakes, and over 150 log cabins!
PJ’s has outdoor seating that is dog friendly. Cello was so well behaved, and enjoyed lots of attention from everyone!
Cello was very interested in my sangria!
Rita visited PJ Whelihans in May of 2016!
Check out PJ Whelihan’s events if you are ever in the area… it’s a fun place to relax and enjoy some food and drinks!
We made it out this Sunday to Working Dog Winery in East Windsor, NJ, for the Hair of the Dog 5k / Chesterfest Wine Festival!
Proceeds from the 5k race benefit local animal rescues. The Chesterfest Wine Festival immediately followed the race. $10 got us entrance to the festival, and a souvenir wine glass. Award winning wines from Working Dog Winery were available to buy by the glass or bottle. Flying Fish Beer had a tent set up to purchase their beer as well. Food carts from Nomad Pizza, and Zinna’s Bistro provided yummy food choices. Live music was also provided by Vic Della Pello.
Everyone brings blankets and chairs, and spends the day enjoying delicious wine and good music…all while supporting local shelters!
Located in Mercer County, NJ, and formerly known as Silver Decoy Winery, Working Dog Winery recently changed their name in honor of their hard-working good-natured dogs!
Originally our schedule did not allow us to make this event, but when plans changed, we jumped in the car and headed to the Festival! We missed the 5k by the time we got there, but Cello was able to volunteer as a donation dog to help raise funds for the GSP Rescue of NJ.
The owners of the winery have a German Shorthaired Pointer as well. We just love the winery’s name – and the wine labels!
It was a beautiful day, and we got to meet some fellow volunteers of the GSP Rescue of NJ that we have only known at this point through email. It was great to meet the other volunteers in person…and to meet their rescued GSPs.
While we were at the festival, Brian noticed that there was a woman selling some jewelry. I am not a big jewelry person, so I hadn’t even noticed the table of jewelry – but Brian told me that I “HAD” to go look at this woman’s jewelry. What I didn’t realize, is that this lady was selling jewelry made from sea glass. Brian knew that as a child, I would collect sea glass at the beach each year my family stayed at the Jersey Shore. Brian spotted this, and knew I would just love it! He bought me a necklace made from sea glass, with a charm attached that was shaped like a heart with paw prints on it. Brian is such a thoughtful husband…and I’m a lucky gal. 🙂
Visit Phyllis at PK’s Kreations to see some of her really cool jewelry made from sea glass!
Margarita visited this winery on July 24, 2016!
Lager visited here on November 11, 2017
If you enjoy wings, or buffalo-style anything, the Pic is the place to visit! Pic-A-Lilli Inn not only has some really great NJ Pine Barren history, (beginning in the early 1920’s!!) it’s known to have the best wings around! Be sure to read the history of this place, and how it all began here! This well-known family-owned establishment is now in it’s 5th generation of ownership, and still going strong!
This weekend, we made a trip back to the Pic…this time with Cello.
We stopped in for some buffalo scallops and some cocktails…and they are super dog friendly! Cello quickly made friends with the bartender!
We chose to sit at their outdoor bar, and had a great time as we enjoyed our meal and drinks!
Lager visited The Pic on February 21, 2016!
Lager enjoyed this beautiful day at the Pic-A-Lilli, one of Brian and Jenny’s favorite places to stop for wings and drinks.
Lager enjoyed himself, and watched all the motorcycles coming and going on this gorgeous day!
Margarita visited The Pic on July 23, 2016!
So stop by and try the wings at The Pic-A-Lilli in ..betcha you’ll be back for more!
We had the pleasure of discovering Bellview Winery in Landisville, NJ this weekend.
Bellview Winery is located on a 100 yr old 150 acre Farm in Southern NJ. This winery not only had delicious wines (wine tasting is only $5 for 8 selections of your choice), but they were extremely dog friendly. Cello was allowed inside in the tasting room, and anywhere on the grounds.
For the wine tasting, we chose the following wines: Chardonnay, Jersey Devil White, Pinot Grigio, Traminette, Nana’s White, Fiesta, Black Currant, and Cristallina.
After completing our wine tasting, we enjoyed a glass of wine on the grounds of the winery.
Cello hammed-it-up while playing with her ball on the grounds of the winery!
This winery also offers a free Vintner’s Club – a chance to earn rewards while enjoying Bellview’s wine!
We enjoyed the wine so much, we bought several bottles to bring home!
Margarita visited here on July 23, 2016
If you are ever in the area, this winery is a must-do stop along your way! Be sure to check out the many events they host at the winery as well!
Cheers!
Happy Mother’s Day to All the Moms With 4-Legged Kids!
Cello was involved in a dock diving event at the Dover Days Festival in Dover Delaware this past weekend, so we hunkered down at Killens Pond State Park, about 25 minutes from the dock diving event.
We were pleasantly surprised when we arrived at Killens Pond. The campsites were arranged in small loops. We stayed on campsite D5 (loop D, campsite 5), and had a nice sized private space with a view of the pond from our living space, and a wooded scene out our rear bay window.
View from our living space:
View from our back bay window:
The campground was clean, and have several campground hosts located throughout the campground. We had an issue with our electric during our stay, and the campground host on our loop couldn’t have been more helpful.
The campground had a pretty hiking trail that ran along the pond and through the park. The trail was very flat and well-maintained. 
This campground only has full hook-ups on the campground host sites, however our site had electric and water. There is a well-leveled and easily accessible dump station located on your way out of the campground.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Killens Pond, and very much enjoyed the “tent-camping” feel we got from the rustic, wooded setting of our site. We would definitely return to this campground if Cello is involved in the same dock diving event in Dover, De this time next year.
On May 3rd and 4th, Cello participated in her first outdoor dock diving event of the 2014 season at the Delmarva Dock Dogs Dover Days Dip, held at the Dover Days Festival in Dover, Delaware. Cello was the only German Shorthaired Pointer competing in this event!
This is the first year that Delmarva Dock Dogs set up a dock at this event. The weather was great, and the event had a nice turn-out. We saw many familiar faces, and even met some new ones. These events are so much fun…and truly filled with good-hearted, down-to-earth people. We have really enjoyed meeting so many great people and their pups!
We ordered team shirts for this year’s diving season!
Cello Jumped twice on Saturday, winning one first place medal.
Check out Cello in Slo-Mo:
One of Cello’s Instagram buddies, Dixie the GSP, saw a post that we were at this event, and sent us a message that they lived close by. Dixie and her family came to meet us, and to cheer Cello on! We were both honored, and excited!!
On Sunday, another two jumps earned her a second place medal, as well as another first place medal.
Cello’s longest jump of the 4 waves she competed in was 22’8″, placing her in the Masters Division Finals. During the finals, she was in first place with a jump of 22’9″ until another dog in her division leaped an amazing 23’3″ !! Cello earned a second place ribbon, money prize, and a bag of goodies! We were very proud of her!
RESULTS:
Saturday:
On the first wave, Cello did not win any medals. Her two jumps were:
18’4″
19’8″
On the second wave, Cello earned a first place medal. Her two jumps were:
22’8″
21’1″
Sunday:
On the first wave, Cello earned a second place medal. Her jumps were:
22’5″
19’5″
On the second wave, Cello earned a first place medal. Her jumps were:
21’6″
22’5″
Cello’s jump of 22’9″ earned a spot in the Masters Division Finals, where she wound up earning 2nd Place with a jump of 22’9′, tying her personal best. She was in First place until a lab leaped an amazing 23’3″!!! Her jumps during the finals were:
22’9″
22’3″
Immediately after Cello got done at her Dover Days dock diving event, we headed over to Pizzadili Winery to celebrate the first place medal she won.
Pizzadili was a beautiful winery with a pavilion, pond with a fountain, trellises, and an adorable outdoor seating area. We chose to have a glass of their Pinot Gris, as we sat at the outdoor seating area.
Everyone who was entering or exiting the winery stopped over to say hello to Cello, and funny enough, two other people (not in the same party) were from Southern New Jersey as well! Small world!
After Cello got done both of her waves at the Dover Days Festival Dock Diving event, we decided to visit Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, Delaware. What a cool place! The atmosphere was laid-back, and the people were friendly…best of all?… they are dog-friendly! Cello was allowed on the grounds, inside at the bar, and in the store!
Brian and I have never been to a brewery for a beer tasting – Boy were we missing out! We also had a blast at the bar with Cello while we did our beer tasting.
Outside there were Bocce Ball courts, a bean bag toss, and an incredible metal tree house.
Cello wants IN!
Cello loved all the attention she got at the Brewery, and even bellied-up to the bar!
They had a sign that read “Off centered people look up,” and the ceiling was covered with unique pictures.
Brian picked up a new hat in the store.
We would definitely like to visit here again!
If you can’t adopt….foster.
If you can’t foster…sponsor.
If you can’t sponsor…volunteer.
If you can’t volunteer…donate or transport an animal to safety.
If you can’t donate or transport…educate, network, and cross-post.
Everyone can do something, large or small, to help save a life.
~Pit Crew, IL
I often hear people say they can’t help because “It’s too upsetting,” “I don’t have the money,” “I don’t have the time,” …etc, etc, etc…. well – you CAN help – in many different ways, regardless of your time, level of involvement, or financial situation. The purpose of this post is to show you that there are many different ways, and numerous levels of participation you can involve yourself in to help save an animal’s life – both with little time, or little/no money!
There are also many people out there who really want to help, but not sure what they can do to assist. There are plenty of different ways to help either at a local shelter – or a rescue organization. Remember…Just a few hours can make such a difference for an animal in need!
Contact a local shelter or rescue organization today, and ask how YOU can contribute…there are MANY ways to assist! Here are just some ways how you volunteer to help change the life of a homeless animal:
LOCAL SHELTERS:
RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS:
I’m sure there are even more ways to assist a local shelter or a rescue organization – contact one today to see how YOU can help save the lives of animals!
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“Saving one dog will not change the world, but surely for that one dog, the world will change forever”
~Karen Davison
Brian had asked me what I wanted to do for my birthday. After giving it much thought, I decided that after the awful winter we endured, it would be great to get outside for the day since the weather was foretasted to be gorgeous. I decided on a family hike, ending with lunch and drinks at an outdoor, dog-friendly eatery.
There was a hike that I had saved on my All Trails wish-list, and have been intrigued ever since with the photos and description of this hike. The hike was at Wissahickon Valley Park. We left the house at 9am to drive to Valley Green Inn, where our hike would begin. When we arrived at Valley Green Inn, Brian, Cello, and I completed a 3.37 mile hike filled with gorgeous views and interesting trails.
We then headed over to the Fairmount Neighborhood in Philadelphia. What a great time we had! We stopped to take in the awesome Eastern State Penitentiary before heading down Fairmount Avenue to The Bishop’s Collar to cheer on the Flyers as we enjoyed a bite to eat and a celebratory birthday cocktail. Our next stop was at London Grill/Paris Wine Bar where we enjoyed a glass of wine. Next, we stopped at Urban Saloon for a quick drink before heading further down Fairmount Avenue to Hickory Lane American Bistro, where we enjoyed some delicious bruschetta. Our last stop was at Jack’s Firehouse for a glass of wine and some uniquely prepared calamari.
We didn’t get home that day until about 7:30pm! What a fun-filled birthday outing I had! The hike was gorgeous, and we packed a lot of culinary and historic experiences in to our day in the Fairmount area of Philadelphia.
To top my birthday off, Brian bought me a (much needed!) new laptop, from which I am composing this blog! Before this, I had been using a slow-running 7 year old laptop with a broken “A” key, and faulty battery! Brian realized how much I have enjoyed creating this site for Cello, yet how frustrating it was to work on an insufficient computer. He was thoughtful enough to purchase a great portable laptop so that I could transport it to work and to camping trips. I am a very, VERY lucky gal to be married to and loved by Brian.
Thank you, Brian, for a GREAT birthday filled with fun, adventure, and new experiences, and for picking out THE most perfect gift! You are the greatest husband, and best friend a girl could ask for – I love you with all of my heart!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!
Hickory Lane American Bistro is located in the Fairmount Neighborhood of Philadelphia, PA, on Fairmount Avenue.
While enjoying a glass of wine at their outdoor seating area, we ordered the “Warm Wild Mushroom and Spring Ramp Bruschetta” – – and it was delicious! These dog-friendly folks even brought a water bowl out for Cello, and were very attentive to her!
Located in the historic Fairmount Neighborhood of Philadelphia, PA, London Grille is a short walk from several museums, including The Franklin Institute and The Philadelphia Museum of Art. This establishment has been featured in Philadelphia Magazine, Philadelphia Style, The Wall Street Journal, and US Airways Magazine.
Although we did not try the well-known food at London Grille, we did enjoy a glass of wine from Paris Wine Bar, the “sister-establishment” to London Grille. Six wines are offered here “on draught,” tapped from kegs that have been specifically filled by the winemakers for Paris Wine Bar. The wine selections change frequently in order to showcase the best of Pennsylvania’s winemakers such as Allegro, Pinnacle Ridge, Galen Glenn, and Manatawny. The rotating selections always include 2 whites, three reds, and one dry rose.
Cello enjoyed the attention she received from 2-legged and 4-legged passerby’s, and the Sauvignon Blanc we ordered was delicious.
Located in the Fairmount Neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Eastern State Penitentiary is chock full of history, and quite a site to see! Be sure to take a moment to read the history and timeline of this place…you won’t be disappointed!
If you ever want a REAL scare, visit this landmark at night in the month of October for “Terror Behind the Walls!” …by far THE scariest Halloween Haunted tour I’ve ever been on!!
If you look closely, you will see Jenny and Cello standing just to the left of the front opening of the penitentiary:
Opening in 1829, Eastern State Penitentiary was the most expensive structure of its time, and became the most famous prison in the world. The penitentiary was also “home” to many famous criminals including:
You many even recognize the penitentiary in some of these movies/videos:
If you are ever in the Philadelphia area, a visit to Eastern State Penitentiary is a must!!
Located along Forbidden Drive in the Wissahickon Valley Park area of Philadelphia, Valley Green Inn is a great place to end a hike in the Wissahickon Valley Park, and has some great history behind it!
We started my birthday hike in the park at the Inn, and were planning to end our hike here with a reward of good food and drinks. We made reservations for the dog-friendly porch seating area, overlooking the Wissahickon Creek. However, Cello had her own agenda planned. We did not realize it was Wissahickon Day, which included a horse parade down Forbidden Drive. Cello has been very vocal in displaying her distaste for horses lately (something we have begun working on immediately and hope to correct). We decided it would be best for the horses outside of Valley Green Inn if we had lunch elsewhere! We decided to head over to the Fairmount Neighborhood of Philadelphia instead.
We hope to come back to Valley Green Inn someday soon with Cello to enjoy food, drink, and the view of the creek.
Wissahickon Valley Park is located in Pennsylvania, in the Fairmount Park area of Philadelphia. The park consists of 1,800 acres and consists of 50 miles of trails, used by hikers, runners, equestrians, and cyclists. The Wissahickon Creek, which runs through the park, is stocked each year with trout, which draws many fisherman as well.
I picked this hike for us to do on my birthday, as I have had this hike on my All Trails “wish-list” for quite some time.
It just so happened that my birthday also fell on Wissahickon Day, where each year on the last Sunday in April people gather at the park to celebrate the fact that Forbidden Drive ( a gravel road that runs along the Wissahickon Creek) was successfully closed to cars in 1921. Around that time, a turnpike was proposed to run the length of this gravel road. However, equestrian park users protested with a parade of carriages and horses. Hundreds of horses turned out for the parade in protest of the turnpike, and the proposal was defeated. Each year on Wissahickon Day, horses and carriages return to celebrate…festivities include a horse show, parade of carriages and horses, and added this year was a Fancy Hat Competition.
We chose to skip the horse-related activities, as Cello has become “spooked” by horses lately (something we are trying to work on with her). We did see lots of horses and carriages coming and going from their activities though!
We did about a 3.37 hike that led us on the trails, as well as onto Forbidden Drive. The hike took longer than usual because of all the stops we made to take pictures, and also because Cello has suddenly begun to lunge at all bikes, as well as all horses, and random bigger dogs. She was a bit on-edge at the park with all the horses, so we didn’t want to push-it with her. We have contacted a well-recommended local trainer and hope to counter-condition these behaviors.
Here is the hike that we did, recorded on MapMyFitness:
Our hike began on Forbidden Drive at the Valley Green Inn, a historic Inn along Forbidden Drive.
About a half-mile into our hike we came to Magarge Dam that once powered the Margarge Mill wheel, the last active mill in the Wissahickon Valley, which closed in 1883.
At about 1.15 miles, we came across this neat stone bridge, archway, and stairs.
We stopped for a minute so that Cello could go in the Wissahickon Creek
Then at about 1.55 miles we reached Thomas Mill Covered Bridge, the only covered bridge still standing within the city limits of Philadelphia, and the only covered bridge in a U.S. City. The bridge spans across the Wissahickon Creek. As of 1980, the bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Thomas Mill Covered Bridge was originally built in 1855. It was renovated by the Works Progress Administration in 1938, and by the city of Philadelphia in 2000. The bridge is open to pedestrian traffic only.
Our first time walking through a covered bridge!
At this point, we decided to head back to Valley Green Inn, where we parked. We took Forbidden Drive all the way back to our starting point.
Forbidden Drive:
Cello and Brian on Forbidden Drive:
Overall, this is is a great hike with decent trails, historical significance, and beautiful sights along the way!
“I”m so excited, and I just can’t hide it…”
…Well, ok, not the ACTUAL pointer sisters, …more like “sistas-from-otha-mistas!” 😉
Another Pointer Rescue, Org (PRO) transport led us to meet Mollie and Emmie, two beautiful and sweet female English Pointers.
We picked up the two gals from another PRO volunteer, Kirk. He told us how well-behaved the two ladies were on his drive!
Emmie is already adopted, and this transport was taking Emmie to her forever home! She was an absolute joy to ride with in the car, and was so loving the entire ride! Her forever family is very lucky to be adding Emmie into their lives!
Meet Emmie:
“Sista” number 2, Mollie, was fresh out of rescue and on her way to her foster home. Once Mollie is settled in with her foster family, she will be available for adoption through PRO. Mollie was also quite the sweetheart – full of love and affection!
Meet Mollie:
It truly amazes me with each transport we do – and each rescue dog we meet – -that even though these gentle, innocent beings have been wronged – often abandoned or abused – or both, they still want nothing but to be loved by humans, and will still also show so much affection and love toward humans, even after all that they have been through… Dogs are truly astonishing creatures.
There are many different ways to help either at a local shelter – or a rescue organization. Just a few hours can make such a difference for a dog in need! Want to assist, but not sure how? Click HERE !
People who say “Money can’t buy you happiness” have never paid an adoption fee 🙂 …Don’t shop adopt!
Brian, Cello, and I spent Easter weekend camping in Staunton, Virginia.
On Easter morning, Cello woke up to her basket and huge bunny left for her from the Easter Bunny!
Cello’s Easter Basket:
Cello’s Easter gifts waiting for her on Easter morning in our camper:
Cello was happy to see that the Easter Bunny did not pass her by in her camper
Cello even had her own egg hunt! Each egg was filled with treats!
Lamb Chop was even hiding an egg!
Found another one in the toy basket!
Brian helped Cello get the treat in each egg as she found them:
After the Easter festivities in our camper, we took a ride onto Skyline Drive. Even though we had been on Skyline Drive before, we had never been this far south on it, and we can’t ever get tired of seeing these views!
After our scenic drive on Skyline Drive, we visited Veritas Vineyard , and then stopped at Byers Street Bistro for some fried green tomatoes!
We had a great Easter Day, and a wonderful Easter weekend trip to Virginia! Hope you all enjoyed your Holiday!
Happy Easter!
Located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Verita’s Vineyard offers a variety of delicious wines. The vineyard grounds are dog friendly, and the setting offers a gorgeous view of the mountains!
The tasting room was really nice and had a cool display of wine corks over the bar:
Located at milepost 5.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Humback Rock Farm displays what’s left of a 19th century mountain farm.
Cello was on meds for a rash that she developed, and Brian had hurt his knee, so we didn’t hike this trip – – but you can, from this location, also hike out to see Humback Rock, pictured below.
Cello had her first ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway! She had been on Skyline Drive before, but she had never been on the Blue Ridge Parkway! The Blue Ridge Parkway spans 469 miles and connects the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive. Construction began in 1935 in Cumberland Knob, near the North Carolina/Virginia state line. The parkway was completed in 1983.
