Explore Westerville, OH with Debra Shiveley Welch, Chris, Kelly Belle, Emma Lou, and Me!

It's time to meet another one of Mom's friends from the Divas of Boomer Diva Nation! This week we are off to Westerville, OH to meet Debra Shiveley Welch, her son Chris, Kelly Belle, and Emma Lou.

From the time Debra moved out on her own, she has had pets, and of all them were rescued in some way.  So when the time came to find a pet to share with her husband, Mark and son, Chris, she went to the pound and found Kelly.  Actually, Mark found Kelly.  As Debra tells the story, "When my husband saw this white, shaggy puppy, he got what I call “the goofy look”: that expression that comes across a person’s face when they see a cute baby, a fuzzy kitten or any baby for that matter, which they simply can’t resist. Yes, it was there – goofy as could be. So, we chose Kelly."  Kelly was three months old when she became part of the Welch family and has been with them ever since.  Debra says she has been a loving companion to all of them, but especially to Debra's son, Chris.

The other pet in Debra's life is Emma Lou, a gorgeous, black, white and tan longhaired Calico cat.  Emma came to the family in a bit different way.  Instead of Debra and family adopting her, she adopted them!  Debra tells the story of how Emma came to them:  "Chris was sitting on our deck, playing his guitar, when this fur covered skeleton climbed the stairs to our deck and plopped herself in the middle of his lap. Chris pet her for a while, cooing to her and quietly examining her, when she jumped out of his lap as quickly as she had appeared and ran off.  We speculated about the obviously abandoned cat, and decided that the next morning, we’d buy some food, just in case. Around nine that night, a pounding was heard at our back door. It was Emma, knocking and demanding to be let in. We opened the garage door, made a bed, and Emma spent her first night in our garage: alone, but safe.  Early the next morning saw me at the store, purchasing cat food, a litter box and litter. Emma has been with us ever since."

As you can see Debra has her hands full as wife to Mark, and Mom to Chris, Kelly Belle, and Emma Lou.  But she is also an award winning author!  In 2004, at age 52, her first book A Very Special Child was published. It has won the Faithwriters Gold Seal of Approval – Outstanding Read award and has been on Amazon, Amazon Japan, Buy.com and Barnes and Nobles best sellers list.  And she has passed this talent on to her son Chris, who is a gifted writer himself.  Since that first book in 2004, either she or Chris have published a book a year. Jesus Gandhi Oma Mae Adams made its appearance in 2005, Christopher Bullfrog Catcher in 2006, in 2007, Son of My Soul – The Adoption of Christopher, winner of the Faithwriters Gold Seal of Approval – Outstanding Read, Book and Authors Literary Excellence and Books and Authors Best Non-Fiction Book 2007 made its debut, and Just Chris, her son’s companion book to her latest work in 2008. She is now working on Cedar Woman, her first romance novel and a cookbook with her son.

Debra, her son, Christopher, and her husband, Mark, live in Westerville, Ohio. Home to just over 35,000 citizens and the birthplace of the Anti-Saloon League, Westerville is a charming family-oriented town with several parks, the Inniswood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve, and Otterbein, the private liberal arts college founded in 1847. With its low crime rate and diverse parks and family-oriented activities, Debra says it is a great place to raise a family.

If you're planning a trip with your Mom to Westerville, you will actually want to stay in Columbus.  It's only 5.5 miles from Westerville.  When we looked for hotels to stay in, the Columbus OSU Red Roof Inn was our pick.  It's a very good location to bring your Mom because there is a lot of grass so you can take her for a walk.  The rooms are clean.  There are restaurants and a grocery store nearby - in case Mom forgot to pack your food.  When we called to get information about the hotel, the lady on the phone was very helpful.  And best of all - I get to stay for free.  In fact all pets stay free!

Once you get to Westerville, ask your Mom to take you to the Brooksedge Dog Park.  Brooksedge  is a big fenced in area with 3 separate sections for different dog sizes. The area has parking, a dog waste bags dispenser, trash cans, water bowls and fountains for both you and your Mom. There are benches for Mom so she can sit and watch you play, some large climbing toys, and even a water hydrant!

If you just want to go for a nice walk, Mom can take you to Blendon Woods where you can walk the Goldenrod Pet Trail.  It's an easy 1.2 mile grassy trail, located in a beautiful 653 acre metro park with a 118 acre waterfowl refuge and an 11 acre lake that is sanctuary for 100s of birds and wildlife.  You'll want to wear your leash here so Mom doesn't get lost - and anyway it's a rule.  Mom will also need to bring the pooper scooper so she can clean up after you.

Debra mentioned the Inniswood Botanical Garden as a great place to visit.  Dogs are not allowed in Inniswood itself but they also have a trail where you and Mom can take a walk.  The Chipmunk Chatter Trail is easy, less than a mile long, and paved. And of course, you must be on leash, under control and cleaned up after.

No wonder Debra loves living in Westerville.  Next time you're in Ohio, stop by and visit!  Tell her Traveling Bob sent you.

Are Aluminum Dog Tags Safe?

I love my red collar with it's shiny dog tags.  Mom says they are made of stainless steel.  She says she pays a bit more for them, but I'm worth it.  In fact all five of us wear stainless steel tags.  Mom even bought one for the rat!

My friend Snickers doesn't have a shiny tag like mine.  His dad says Snickers' tags are made of something called aluminum.  Mom and I like Snickers and his dad, so Mom explained to him why my tags are a better buy.

When you buy a dog tag for your dog, it's because you want to be returned to us safely if you get lost, right?  It's not a necklace or some sort of decoration.  It has a purpose.  If I lose Mom, I want someone to know how to find her again.  That's why I wear my name and Mom's name, address and phone number on my tag.  I've had my tag for a long time - almost as long as I can remember.  At least as long as we have lived in the country house.  Mom says it still looks as good as when she first bought it. 

Stainless steel doesn't rust.  And I can't chew it up (even if I could reach it.  I have a CollarTag™ so that's almost impossible!).  But Mom says aluminum is soft - one of the softest metals available.  She told Snickers' dad to think about how easy it is to crush an aluminum can.  Mom says aluminum tags wear out very quickly.  She says the writing gets harder to read the longer the tag is worn - and most people don't think to change their dogs' tags regularly.  Pretty soon you can't even read what's there.  So when you lose your mom or dad, no one will be able to help you find them because they can't read where your mom or dad are. 

Mom says she gets lots of questions asking if aluminum dog tags are safe.  The problem is not safety of the tags.  It's the fact that they are so cheaply made and wear out so quickly that it's not safe to wear them because you don't know if anyone can read what it says.  Aluminum is okay.  It's not being able to find your mom or dad that isn't safe!

What tag should you buy?  One like mine if you can.  CollarTags™ from Boomerang Tags.  Mom says they are the best dog tag available.  But if you can't get the CollarTags™, please check out their selection of plastic, stainless steel, or brass tags.  Anything but aluminum!    

Adopt a Friend from Marietta, GA

Last week you met my friend and woman of wisdom, Debra Stokes and her grand-dog, Rex.  Now it's time to meet some other friends - friends who desperately need a  home.  Our newest partner shelter is the Cobb County Animal Control Unit.  Located at 1060 Al Bishop Drive,  Cobb County Animal Control houses lost, abandoned and unwanted animals of Cobb County - Marietta, Georgia.

Cobb County Animal Control has many adoptable cats and dogs. Those shown here are only a few of the many adoptable animals housed at the shelter. The adoption prices: Dogs 12 months and older $40.00 Puppy under 12 months $30.00 Cat 12 months and older $35.00 Kitten under 12 months $30.00 This includes the first set of shots and worming. Most animals are Microchipped. Take a look at each of these furry bundles of love and then visit Cobb County Animal Control for your next pet!

Nina
Nina is a white/tan Pointer mix. Nina is up-to-date with routine shots and spayed/neutered.  I think she looks like my friend Beauty, the Jack Russell that lives with me and Mom and Dad.  That's why I hope she finds a home soon!

Alizay
Alizay is a 9 month old white Pitbull. I don't normally like pitbulls.  But the people at Cobb County Animal Control say she is a sweet girl. Alizay is up-to-date with routine shots.

Wafer
Just look at Wafer's eyes!  She is saying '"I just want a family to love me, please."  Won't you take her home?  Wafer is a 2 year old black retriever mix. Wafer is up-to-date with routine shots.


 
 
 

Snowflake
I used to have a kitty named Snowflake too!  She was all fuzzy and pretty.  This Snowflake is pretty too - just like mine.  Snow Flake is a beautiful and sweet 3 year old white dlh. Snow Flake is up-to-date with routine shots.


 
 
 
I have been blessed to be adopted by a wonderful mom and dad.  Please be a blessing to one of my friends in Marietta. 


  

Explore Marietta, GA with Debra Stokes, Rex, and Me!

It's time to meet another one of Mom's friends from the Divas of Boomer Diva Nation! This week we are off to Marietta, GA to meet Debra Stokes and Rex. Rex is actually Debra's granddog. As she says, "The 'Most Handsome Pound Dog in the Universe' is Rex, my Grand dog. Rex was rescued from a pound in Auburn, Alabama, by my daughter when she should have been getting a college education!"




The other doggie in Deb's life is Nicky, a Cairn terrier. Nicky is no longer with Debra and her family. He suffered a stroke about two years ago. But he lived with Debra for 16 years and she still misses him.


Debra is very involved with a group on LinkedIn called Women of Wisdom. She established this group to provide a forum where they share the lessons they have learned along their Christian journey. And she writes a great blog which you can read at www.womanofwisdom.wordpress.com. And her business, Eloge Enterprises, has two great products that Mom said she wishes had been available when she needed them. Mom says they would have been a God-send. I'm not sure what they are for exactly, but if Mom says they are great then you definitely need to check them out: Glistens and Kool-nex.




They all live in the northern suburbs of Atlanta – Marietta or May-retta, if you’re a local. Debra says, "We have lots of parks and nature trails along the banks of the Chattahoochee River. This is a very pet-friendly area. We’ve had the same vet for nearly 20 years and they still take care of our pets without requiring that we pay before we walk out of the door!!!!!! It’s like family."

Sounds like Marietta, GA is a great place for a little dog to visit! Actually, Marietta is not far from Atlanta. Mom and I have been here before. And when we come we stay at the Homestead Studio Suites Atlanta-Marietta-Powers Ferry. Mom was very nervous the first time we stayed there. A room with a king-size bed for under $50 a night? But this was a last minute trip and it was all that was available. What a surprise we had. While it is definitely no-frills, it was neat, clean, and best of all - they take pets. One pet is allowed in each guest room and when you bring a pet, there will be a non-refundable cleaning fee charged upon check-in on the first night. This charge will be $25 dollars for each night of your stay but will not exceed $150. Weight, size and breed restrictions may apply.



There's a grocery store nearby so I can get my favorite food without having to pack a lot of stuff with me. And on the nights Mom wanted to eat out, there were several restaurants close.



Marietta has a great dog park for me to play in. Sweat Mountain Dog Park was Marietta's first official off-leash dog park. It has an area for big dogs and a separate area for little guys like me. And it has benches for Mom to sit on so she can watch me play.



When we are not at the park, we sometimes walk the Silver Comet Trail. It's one of the top trails in the country. I have to wear my leash because lots of different folks use the trail. Mom and I just walk, but there are joggers, bikers, and skaters using it too. So I let Mom put my leash on me so I don't get run over!

Next time you're in Georgia, stop by Marietta and visit my friends, Debra and Rex. She say you are welcome in Cobb County!

Why Every Dog Should Have a Human

Most dogs want a human at some point in their lives. If you have been considering adopting a human family, I highly recommend it!

Dogs who have humans are happier, healthier, and live longer than stray dogs. And since dog owners also tend to be happier, healthier, and to live longer, it's a win-win combination! The properly trained and socialized human makes a loyal, loving and faithful companion and guardian. The daily responsibility of owning a human brings great joy and comfort to many dogs. Providing our humans with love and companionship can be challenging at times, but seeing the smiles on their faces as they pet you, or hearing the love in their voices as they call your
name makes it all worthwhile.

Humans are a dog's best friend. That's a fact! They may not chase squirrels with you or dig for buried smelly things in the yard, but there are so many other things you can do together. My mom and I share all sorts of adventures. She has added so much to my life.

Before my mom came and brought me home, I never got to go for a long walk. Now mom and I walk almost every night. I love sharing this time with her. And she says that walking with me has helped her lose weight, get in better shape, and relieve stress.

Before I came to live with my mom, everyday was pretty much the same. But now I have responsibilities like waking her up in the morning, sleeping by her feet at night to help keep her warm, and sitting next to her in her chair to keep things from bothering her. I know it sounds like a lot of work. But she is always so happy to see me that it makes me happy too! And the more I wag my tail and nuzzle her, the happier she seems to be.

Mom protects me from bigger dogs and mean people who would hurt me. She makes sure I have my shots and trips to Dr. Karen so I don't get sick. She brushes and bathes me so I don't have fleas or ticks. And I help take care of her by barking when something or someone comes in our yard that doesn't belong there. When we walk, I can spot snakes or skunks or other things before she does and I stop and bark so she doesn't run into them. And I can always tell when a bad storm is coming and I let her know by running in through the pet door as soon as it starts raining! When she is sick, I stay by her so she doesn't feel lonely. And when she can't eat all her food, I eat her leftovers so she doesn't have to waste them. When she's not home, I guard the house for her and bark at everyone that comes there to let them know that mom has a dog on duty! I know I am small, but when I bark, Ginger barks too, and she is a BIG dog. When she barks, it scares people!

I love to help mom with her housework too. When she makes the bed, I help by grabbing the blanket in my mouth and pulling it across the bed. She sometimes gets a little annoyed because she says I am pulling it the wrong way. But most days she says thanks for helping to make the bed. And I help her remember to keep her socks and things picked up so she doesn't lose them. If she forgets and drops them on the floor, I will take them and hide them for her so they don't get lost.

When I was kept in a cage, every day was so boring. But now everyday is fun! She knows how to fetch and play catch and shake hands. She's really pretty smart for a human! Sometimes we just go outside and romp around the yard together or just sit on the porch in the sun. I help her when she's digging in her garden. It took me a while to learn that I can't just dig in there whenever I want to. Some things that I thought were weeds were actually things she had planted. But even when we just sit together and read or watch TV, we still have a good time.

Just remember - they are only human after all. So take good care of them and train them well. Give them lots of love and affection. Let them know how much they mean to you. Train them to walk on a leash, relax in the sun, enjoy a good nap, and teach them how to give proper nose kisses. You'll be rewarded with a lifetime of companionship that can't be beat!

Adoptable Pets from Tyler, Texas

If you have been following me and my mom on Twitter or read any of my mom's blogs, then you know why I haven't been on the computer much. First we had 3 new additions to the family - Reid in April, Brianna in May, and Mylie in July! They are all cute as can be and mom and dad and I went to see each of them as soon as they were born. That's the good news. The bad news is that right after we came home, dad got real sick. Mom said it was his heart and that we needed to slow down and take care of him. I don't mind - dad takes real good care of me when I'm sick. So I have been spending my days sitting in dad's lap while he rests and gets better. And he is getting better. We even went out in the boat today. Mom and Reid's daddy had to get the boat ready so dad could ride with us. But it was still good to get out in the sun on the water with him and we had a great time together. I know mom driving his boat made him a little nervous - but it's a big lake! What could she possibly hit? And she didn't lose anybody over the side so I guess she did okay.

Now that dad is getting better, mom said we can start working and writing again. So it's time to get back to my blog. If you remember, I had a mission this year of helping 1000 homeless pets find homes. We were off to a great start too, and while my absence may have set us back a little, I am not giving up. So, to get the momentum going again - and in honor of my good friends Betty Lynch and Copper, I am going to highlight some of the wonderful companions available in Betty's town of Tyler, Texas.

Since I am a huge supporter of the Humane Society of the United States, I chose the Humane Society of East Texas to be my partner shelter for our adopt a pet drive. The Humane Society of East Texas is an animal advocate agency. Their goal is to find forever homes for the animals at the shelter and to promote responsible pet ownership. It was established in 1963 by concerned citizens after they visited the City of Tyler’s inadequate animal impoundment facility. At that time, animals were housed in one small building regardless of the health of the animals. The Society requested that the Tyler impoundment facilities be turned over to the newly founded Humane Society of East Texas. Construction of the animal shelter was completed in 1968 and the Humane Society of East Texas's animal shelter was opened.

Animals may be adopted at the Humane Society’s animal shelter. Dogs and cats are available for adoption by responsible pet owners and have been spayed or neutered if old enough. If the pet is too young, at the time of adoption, a Certificate of Sterilization will be included in the adoption packet. The adoption fee includes spay/neuter, microchip, all vaccinations (including rabies) and 30 days of free pet health insurance. Adoption Fees: Dogs $130 Cats $115

There are many adoptable pets available at the Human Society of East Texas. Since I can only highlight a few, I chose those that are most in need of a home. Won't you open your heart and home to one of them? If you do, please let me know. Because for every pet adopted from one of my partner shelters this month, I will send their new mom and/or dad a free Traveling Bob pet bowl!

I have been blessed to be adopted by a wonderful mom and dad. Please be a blessing to one of my friends in Tyler:

Buster - Buster is a 4 year old Chihuahua who has had a hard life. He lost one of his eyes, was malnourished, but friendly when he first arrived at the shelter. After having surgery to remove his damaged eye, he became very protective. His disposition changed for a while until he realized that no one was going to hurt him again. He still mistrusts people, until he gets to know them. He is very playful with other small dogs, is neutered and weighs about 7 lbs. Buster will need an extremely patient owner, who will understand his moods. He will have to be watched, when company comes, because he will bite their heels. Buster has been at the shelter for 590 plus days.

Betty - Betty is a Retriever, Labrador/Australian Cattle Dog and is almost 2 years old. She likes other dogs and plays well with children and she likes to ride in a car. She was previously kept outdoors.

Tebow - Tebow is a Yorkshire Terrier, just like Austin, the rat that mom brought home one day for me to play with. I have to admit, he is not as much of a nuisance as I thought he would be so I can say that Yorkies are good dogs. Tebow walks on a leash (unlike Austin who hasn't quite mastered that yet!), and likes to ride in the car. He is used to being indoors, which is where Austin lives too. Yorkies are small and need to be indoor pets. He is shy and nervous but friendly and I'm sure will give lots of Yorkie love to the right family.

Mr. Wiggles - Mr. Wiggles is a 3 year old Chihuahua. He sure was named right because he is a very frisky boy that loves to run and play and likes other dogs. He does dig and is afraid of loud noises but some TLC can teach him not to do those things.




Kitter Kat - Yes, I want you to adopt a cat! I have cats of my own. Every dog should have a cat or two of their very own. Kitter Kat will need a real special home, one without other pets. Kitter Kat has Feline Leukemia, which is contagious to other cats. Other wise he is very healthy. He is the most lovable, social cat that has ever been at the shelter. He is litterbox trained, very playful, and just wants to love and be loved back.

Nanna - Nanna is a grey tiger kitty, just like my kitties, Iris and Little Bitty Kitty. Nanna is litterbox trained, knows commands, likes other cats but does not like dogs (nobody's perfect!). She plays well with small children and is friendly and playful. She was previously kept indoors and is front declawed. Nanna was surrendered because other cats in the family did not like her.

To adopt one of these great furry bundles of love, contact the Humane Society of East Texas. And tell them Traveling Bob sent you!

A Visit to Tyler, Texas with Betty Lynch and Copper

It's time to meet another one of Mom's friends from the Divas of Boomer Diva Nation! This week we are off to Tyler, Texas to meet Betty Lynch and Copper.

Betty is the creator and author of My Country Kitchen. She makes all kinds of yummy things to eat. Then she shares how to do that with her friends. She has taught Mom how to make all kinds of good snacks for me. My favorite is Grandma's Meatballs. I love meatballs, and the ones Ms. Betty taught Mom to make are the best!

Betty is also a mom, just like my Mom. She takes care of Copper. Betty rescued Copper in May of 2008. Her vet found him standing in the middle of the road, stopped and picked him so he would not get run over. They ran ads and no one called for him. Knowing Betty had just lost her last pet, the vet called her and told her about Copper. It was love at first sight. Although Betty has realized that Copper had been mistreated as he runs from everyone who comes in her house, Copper is adjusting well and she loves him to death.

Betty sent Mom some information about Tyler.

"We are located in East Texas, also known as the Bible belt. It is a mid size city, population about 100,000. Also known as the Rose Capital of the world. The farming industry is roses. We have a beautiful rose garden that is the home to many, many years worth of beautiful and expensive beaded ball gowns from the previous rose queens.

Our city is also the home of a beautiful Tyler Zoo, oil refinery, medical community, large legal field, ranchers and some of the nicest people you could ever expect to meet. We have Tyler Junior College, Texas College, University of Texas at Tyler, along with a number of private schools. Our city is so clean and we have managed to keep smog to a minimum.

Many things to enjoy in Tyler including, museums, stage performers, concerts, traveling shows, E.T. Fair, tennis, football, basketball, soccer, both indoor and out, golf courses, bowling, miniature golf, skating, pottery, craft fairs, azalea trails, boating, wineries with lots of one of a kind shops.

Winters are very mild, however our summers get very hot with temperatures at 100 plus degrees with high humidity."

When we go to Texas, we don't normally stay in a hotel. Mom has lots of friends and family in Texas. But for those of you who don't Mom did some research and found the perfect place for you to stay - The Holiday Inn Select - Tyler. Mom found out that they have big comfy beds with lots of pillows just the way I like. And when Mom called to talk to them about bringing me, she said the people on the phone were very friendly and helpful. That's always a good sign. If the staff is friendly to me on the phone, they usually are once we actually visit the hotel as well.

Along with all of the great things to do that Betty listed, Mom found a park we can go to. Mom and I love to walk in the park. Some parks even have cabins or let Mom bring her tent and we stay for a few days. Tyler State Park has all the things that make parks great for me - hiking trails which I love, even though I do have to wear my leash. And Mom found out the park has raccoons! We have a raccoon at home. He is an outside semi-pet that Dad found when he was a baby. Mom and Dad didn't put him in a cage. They said he was big enough to be on his own with some help. So now he comes and sits on the porch with us at night and eats cat food out of his bowl. I like raccoons. I'm glad the park in Tyler has some. It would make staying there sort of like being at home.

I hope Mom will take a trip to Texas soon. Then maybe we can stop in Tyler and visit Ms. Betty and Copper. And maybe she'll teach Mom how to make some more yummy things to eat!