Obsession: Cherry Blossoms

For a reason not know to me i adore anything that has to do with cherry blossoms!  I don't think it is the most beautiful flower (that spot is reserved for an orchid) but i think it photographs so beautifully.  It is a balance between delicate feminine flowers and strong masculine branches.

I was so happy when i found this cycling jersey.  I have worn it on a few rides and received a ton of compliments.

 

Here are some of the greatest tatts i was able to find:

What tatts do you have???

What to expect: 8 to 12 weeks

IMPORTANT TO DO's

• go out for frequent walks (Brooklyn can hold it for maybe 5 hours or so)
• make sure there are plenty of chew toys around
• you can start training and teaching new commands
• go to the vet regularly to keep up with the shots

During this time the puppy is growing quickly and my large breed (labrador retriever) is very clumsy and wobbly because of it.  Just last week she was able to walk under the dining room chair, and today she tried to do the same and bumped her head.  Her legs are getting longer and she is not used to it and trips a lot.

The puppy is very curious and mouthy.  She tries everything by trying to eat it.  Rocks, socks, pillows, grass, anything you name she will try to eat it.  We noticed that small rocks were showing up in her poop (clearly we weren't paying attention when she ate them).

Since the puppy's immune system hasn't developed yet be very cautious when going to the park and daily walks.  She shouldn't play with other dogs even if they have been vaccinated.  When we go to pet stores we put her in the shopping cart so other dogs can't reach.   Since it is too early to meet other dogs, it's ok to meet people.  It is ok to let others pet and touch the puppy as long as they are not visibly sick.  If the puppy becomes agitated or uncomfortable don't be shy by asking the person to stop or simply leave. 

Remember, let the puppy sleep.  When they sleep they grow!

Meeting playmates at the dog park

Brooklyn loves going to the dog park.  As she is learning appropriate behaviors from other dogs, she is also getting much needed exercise.  We take her on long walks 3 days a day while she is young and unable to control her bladder well, but nothing beats an hour in the dog park.

We met a very nice lab mix, who has white paws and some white on his chest, hence the name Tuxedo Lab.  He is about 1 years old and is very mild mannered.  He recognized that Brooklyn is just a small puppy and was very gentle allowing her to be the dominant one.  If she bit too hard he let her know by making a small yelp and immediately she backed off.