tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36671049860785972012024-03-19T23:19:49.021-07:00TinkerRecoveryBetaTinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-88215416899093391182010-04-29T04:12:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.289-07:00It's a Gotcha Kind of Month<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh78A58tsDtcKYniINPUcfEm49VNGlphhlBj1oRmYKxPaLFSNztHMnL3XIr3IcEkpdCRSyLfqBsMLjG5Qv2iHyIBqGqHOtKExNlOalnqnZ3rgIZre_y0uCEqLWhQoWc4xEaIHR04zNXEIQ/s1600/tinkvagotcha09.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 168px; height: 222px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh78A58tsDtcKYniINPUcfEm49VNGlphhlBj1oRmYKxPaLFSNztHMnL3XIr3IcEkpdCRSyLfqBsMLjG5Qv2iHyIBqGqHOtKExNlOalnqnZ3rgIZre_y0uCEqLWhQoWc4xEaIHR04zNXEIQ/s320/tinkvagotcha09.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465521435976913282" border="0" /></a>April is a very busy time in our household. A birthday, our anniversary, and a couple of "Gotcha" days. For those of you that don't know, the Gotcha day marks the day you adopted (or "got") your dog and/or cat (what are those?) from a rescue or shelter. (It doesn't count if you bought your dog from a pet store... but that's a discussion for another day.)<br /><br />Last Tuesday, April 20, was <span style="font-weight: bold;">Virginia's</span> Gotcha day. Incredibly, it has been 10 years since our little girl came into our lives. It's been a decade of wonderful times. Though she may be 11 years old now, she's still as nutty as ever, doing rollies on her back every night after dinner. She still does puppy zoomies around the room, flies up a flight of stairs, and is as "Beaglie" as ever... translation: very food motivated.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggks-QNldBQe18JKoRg99SpCg49daCFzXexpZh0lJnRR5joGBGynXAayoUSvsRU5VyA13ew3Rb1Oh6Z7S_1gfLetNEM3_tS_3UcroFb-ZI4ZUEGPDRzGZHgeFsY-u3Jbpu8ZFgv68dRyQ/s1600/tinkvacake.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 243px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggks-QNldBQe18JKoRg99SpCg49daCFzXexpZh0lJnRR5joGBGynXAayoUSvsRU5VyA13ew3Rb1Oh6Z7S_1gfLetNEM3_tS_3UcroFb-ZI4ZUEGPDRzGZHgeFsY-u3Jbpu8ZFgv68dRyQ/s320/tinkvacake.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465521073759035906" border="0" /></a>The nicknames she goes by these days are "Little Girl", "VA", "Sweet Pea", "Puddin'", "Punkin", "Munchkin", "Miss Beagaloo" and a few hundred other variations (no one ever said we weren't nuts).<br /><br />She does have some issues, namely a sensitive stomach and her hearing is not what it used to be. But she can still break into a refrigerator like nobody's business and she is still our puppy.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyBqsAM47haBKlzETw61ba0-qI8rMqNyFXydmh_wQhxbhfFmYO8Yi5ooH9MVxpe5azPNwl23cAWc9gEQuDJ8ohVCxDqCyCptB4dXgJZBamytr4U5ZDWwmt6GB_R2eEJWkHc5H9CRLYwq0/s1600/tinksmile2.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 241px; height: 206px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyBqsAM47haBKlzETw61ba0-qI8rMqNyFXydmh_wQhxbhfFmYO8Yi5ooH9MVxpe5azPNwl23cAWc9gEQuDJ8ohVCxDqCyCptB4dXgJZBamytr4U5ZDWwmt6GB_R2eEJWkHc5H9CRLYwq0/s320/tinksmile2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465521677163153202" border="0" /></a>Today, April 29, marks six years of a house full of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker</span>. Hard to believe. Not that it is six years already, but that it hasn't been longer. Tink seems like he's been here forever. We can't remember the time before he was here and we wouldn't have it any other way.<br /><br />Right now, he's squealing like a <del>pig</del> Tink to come downstairs. (We still do not let him do stairs himself- we serve as his personal sherpa to keep his back in as good a shape as possible). He's one nutty, fun loving dude. I don't think there's a happier, more upbeat dog (or person for that matter) on the planet.<br /><br />Every day is a great day for Tinker, even those days when his back gets a little stiff. He's 10 years old, going on 2 months. And he is overjoyed at this moment to finally be downstairs and licking his sister's ears (a daily ritual).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ziOLIZdPMXxbSvwP7XskvdeDqjCGRzU2nfwvBOKJzPBIf7kxvcTTZSLyJjSfpt8CHCkBBsV7BgJvBhLKXSV9XdoL1T0WIuptjqPpOKKrHZIIYXmifI6MvU4grY0aaBpxXcAFhOn-p0w/s1600/tinkvabanana.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 291px; height: 218px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ziOLIZdPMXxbSvwP7XskvdeDqjCGRzU2nfwvBOKJzPBIf7kxvcTTZSLyJjSfpt8CHCkBBsV7BgJvBhLKXSV9XdoL1T0WIuptjqPpOKKrHZIIYXmifI6MvU4grY0aaBpxXcAFhOn-p0w/s320/tinkvabanana.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465521229463640146" border="0" /></a>The nicknames he goes by these days are "Boo" (evolved from Tinker Boo), "Boobadeaux" (that's his Cajun name...no, we're not Cajun), "Billy Joe Boobadeaux" (I told you we were nuts), "Boo Boo" (seems to be a theme here), "Mr. Boy", and of course, he will aways be "The Dude".<br /><br />These two monkeys enrich our lives every day and in so many ways. They are fun, stress relieving little kids with fur, and just a joy to be around. We couldn't love two animals more than we love them (maybe more than some relatives, too).Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-70431775313310639172009-04-12T15:32:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.311-07:00There's nothing like a chew<span style="font-weight: bold;">We present a video documentary of a Beagle boy</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> and his treat filled kong.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Starring Tinker as the Beagle boy </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Co Starring Virginia as the sleeping Beagle girl</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Director's note - The noise you hear in the background is the coffemaker,</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> not Virginia snoring.</span><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/A82iz1cZpjE&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/A82iz1cZpjE&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-3239606582081355332009-02-01T20:20:00.000-08:002010-05-31T17:46:11.320-07:00Tinker the Harness ChewerOur boy, the harness chewer. Tinker goes through harnesses like a runner goes through sneakers. Here's a slideshow of some of his favorites.<br /><br />(the two-tone blue-green is his current model)<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><embed src="http://apps.rockyou.com/rockyou.swf?instanceid=131496929&ver=102906" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="lt" wmode="transparent" name="rockyou" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" width="400" height="200"></embed><br /><a style="padding-right: 1px;" target="_BLANK" href="http://www.rockyou.com/?type=slideshow&refid=131496929"><img style="border: 0px none ;" src="http://apps.rockyou.com/link/logo.gif" /></a><a style="padding-right: 1px;" target="_BLANK" href="http://www.rockyou.com/slideshow_create.php?refid=131496929&source=cyo"><img style="border: 0px none ;" src="http://apps.rockyou.com/link/create_own.gif" /></a><a style="padding-right: 1px;" target="_BLANK" href="http://www.rockyou.com/show_my_gallery.php?instanceid=131496929"><img style="border: 0px none ;" src="http://apps.rockyou.com/link/view_all.gif" /></a></div>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-86637819515208044212009-01-04T12:28:00.000-08:002010-05-31T17:46:11.331-07:00Surf's Up Dude<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP-u74FQjYYQdK2c7ITOqJZL_feTentJTq2sTRGZVhkBGGzeuhKf6y2Y2rpKKEZRYmnsfKamgEutWt9cKZzPqvkT5mKG4dNStgLFYyifl2z_qg2RCuGQ97asZnhJajLRofQnORLkW2e7k/s1600-h/Dec+08+074.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 369px; height: 318px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP-u74FQjYYQdK2c7ITOqJZL_feTentJTq2sTRGZVhkBGGzeuhKf6y2Y2rpKKEZRYmnsfKamgEutWt9cKZzPqvkT5mKG4dNStgLFYyifl2z_qg2RCuGQ97asZnhJajLRofQnORLkW2e7k/s320/Dec+08+074.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287540299653843506" border="0" /></a>With weather being pretty lousy around here, we took a trip to a local pet store chain to give the Beags a chance to have some fun as well as to cure our cabin fever. The floors in these stores are usually a smooth tile or linoleum. Which means a slippery floor for Tinker, who looks like Bambi on ice when he gets excited at the sight of another dog.<br /><br />The two of us had a simultaneous thought as we entered the store. "What if we try to put Tinker in one of the shopping carriages?" (We once tried this with Virginia years ago, but she hated every moment of it. In all fairness, it was also on a bumpy driveway in a shopping center.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizF1KbPyq-I1IvjvHzwZgz9wBB086r4Xo8aBB2mfzS7LTwAvgJACIEE3ZlLqowxFyjyVoxNO8ixnFUUSDgB6fCNkPzcowgVHKXPSsMKX7IxroTT1n5o0_0vNOxvtxmq3fe96Y18oEAt9U/s1600-h/Dec+08+073.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizF1KbPyq-I1IvjvHzwZgz9wBB086r4Xo8aBB2mfzS7LTwAvgJACIEE3ZlLqowxFyjyVoxNO8ixnFUUSDgB6fCNkPzcowgVHKXPSsMKX7IxroTT1n5o0_0vNOxvtxmq3fe96Y18oEAt9U/s320/Dec+08+073.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287540490862577810" border="0" /></a>So we put Tink in the carriage and he loved every minute of it! He gave a few puzzled looks, and he got a bit frustrated and whined, cried, and barked a few times at not being able to greet some of the other dogs, like Bogart the Beagle, that we met along the way.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnMzk8FZubfIVRH5HTzIzGF_sOmlbGH3wp96VVI_pRFchRAOP6XsB5yJmr0DqVEEriYXE7DdLPqWS5G_Wn5lhjx7k4F5D88R-og_CH4EvcBFujngGj5BghfGWYMwj59fF0nD6iS7Tsqg/s1600-h/Dec+08+057.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnMzk8FZubfIVRH5HTzIzGF_sOmlbGH3wp96VVI_pRFchRAOP6XsB5yJmr0DqVEEriYXE7DdLPqWS5G_Wn5lhjx7k4F5D88R-og_CH4EvcBFujngGj5BghfGWYMwj59fF0nD6iS7Tsqg/s320/Dec+08+057.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287540958750228242" border="0" /></a>But he also liked having a bird's eye view of the food-stocked shelves, and didn't attempt to climb out of his new "vehicle". All in all it was successful trip, especially when the cashier gave 3 large treats to both Virginia and Tinker as we left the store.Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-82429676773528910952008-11-09T07:04:00.000-08:002010-05-31T17:46:11.341-07:00I'm Walking, Yes IndeedIt's been just over one month since <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker </span>re-injured his right rear <a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=U&start=2&q=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anterior_cruciate_ligament&ei=DP4WSZy9EZnaeaWM1KYH&usg=AFQjCNHCkwgKphFO22sjsFfqcv0a2_AS8A"><span style="font-weight: bold;">ACL</span></a>. He was put on crate rest and given a prescription of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Deramaxx </span>(a class of <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.medicinenet.com/nonsteroidal_antiinflammatory_drugs/article.htm">NSAID</a>), which we hesitantly gave to him. In case you aren't aware of it there is a lot of controversy surrounding both <a href="http://network.bestfriends.org/newyork/news/4001.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Deramaxx</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rimadyl</span></a>.<br /><br />After three days we took <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker </span>off the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Deramaxx </span>due to a enormous increase in his urine output. Where he would normally go outside after 3-4 hours, Tinker's bladder was ready to burst after an hour. The literature on the drug's <a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=U&start=1&q=http://www.deramaxx.com/&ei=Gv8WSYapDp-UePbc8YkH&usg=AFQjCNFc_DQLpId9CTDxrodNcc5lmnV00w">official website</a> said that dispensing the med should be stopped if there is a significant change in bladder output and that's exactly what we did. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker's</span> bladder output returned to normal just 24 hours after stopping the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Deramaxx</span>. We cannot stress enough the importance of knowing all potential side effects of any medication, whether it is for your animal or yourself. Okay, we'll hop down off the soap box now. :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker </span>usually has no problem being crated, but was more reticent this time, putting on quite the whine fest in the morning after breakfast and in the evening after dinner. It could definitely drive you to the point of distraction.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsMd5QbEgPAIMOP_vMz4LAQEgL7zPo8VO492lD44v95YFKoM4WLMb87kQnz6vX-QJnuBsTJ8c84B1prsAqwlOJkgkqlklSHD_eRr4d3EMQUUX1vIkRU-TmRnYOHdHjtYGXLUdRoOgtCkc/s1600-h/TinkerOutCrate.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsMd5QbEgPAIMOP_vMz4LAQEgL7zPo8VO492lD44v95YFKoM4WLMb87kQnz6vX-QJnuBsTJ8c84B1prsAqwlOJkgkqlklSHD_eRr4d3EMQUUX1vIkRU-TmRnYOHdHjtYGXLUdRoOgtCkc/s320/TinkerOutCrate.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266689420560249554" border="0" /></a>Thankfully there was plenty of good weather so <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker</span> enjoyed some mornings and afternoons out on our deck. Don't worry we didn't let him use the grill.<br /><br />We decided right from the start that we would allow <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker </span>to sleep out of the crate at night since the room is gated off and he wants nothing more than to just curl up next to his sister or spread out on the big square flat bed we bought for him. After about 2 weeks we also starting giving in at night and letting him out of the crate after his post-dinner whining. (We made sure to let him out after he had stopped whining so wouldn't be rewarding the behavior.) Again, this was no problem, since he wanted nothing more than to just curl up in his bed in front of the couch. And if he did wander off, we would say, "Get back in that bed young man" and he would scurry right back to the bed and lay down. It was a very funny sight to see.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6eKAGFv5nQewRgfvNO8G3L-plNGwk_kHhSCACHHn5qbQsxJZsNHKhJurB9CaSjFugOC_MubsUU5WxC0bZZnKkEgS5xysZplKkBO_lzoL9cznHypDqV8YOF6UulfzKvCGTDb0Nf4R7SE4/s1600-h/TinkerOutCrate2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 343px; height: 292px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6eKAGFv5nQewRgfvNO8G3L-plNGwk_kHhSCACHHn5qbQsxJZsNHKhJurB9CaSjFugOC_MubsUU5WxC0bZZnKkEgS5xysZplKkBO_lzoL9cznHypDqV8YOF6UulfzKvCGTDb0Nf4R7SE4/s320/TinkerOutCrate2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266688011299336818" border="0" /></a><br /></div>While <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker </span>was healing the two of us were getting sore shoulders, necks, and backs from using the back sling harness to walk him.<br /><br />So we were happy to get a good progress report from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dr. Massicotte</span> after a 3-week follow up. One more week of crate rest was recommended for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tink </span>and then we could slowly start to walk with him with his regular harness. About half-way through the 4th week we started taking <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker </span>on short walks with his regular harness while still using the rear sling harness for longer walks. He had no problem building his stamina back up and now we are walking him only on his regular harness.<br /><br />Needless to say, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker </span>is very happy to be free and hanging out with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Virginia </span>again.Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-22278745770856945772008-10-07T18:41:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.381-07:00Back in the Saddle AgainSunday night, we awoke in the middle of the night to the sound of a restless Tinker. He was walking around our bedroom and seemed unsettled. We quickly noticed he was walking awkwardly. Actually, he always walks in a somewhat awkward manner, (a combination of spinal walking and normal walking), but Sunday night he wouldn't lie down for more than a few moments.<br /><br />We immediately were stressed, fearful that he may have suffered another back injury. However, we also realized his right rear leg was retracted and that appeared to be the direct cause of his balance problem.<br /><br />Before I go further, let me explain a little bit about pain response in a dog who has had a spinal injury. Normally, a dog who hurts his leg will retract it from pain, but the leg will relax in short order. However, a dog who has suffered a spinal injury, has, for lack of a better phrase, an over reactive pain response. Rather than having his leg go back to normal in a short amount of time, Tinker kept his leg retracted for the rest of the night and early morning.<br /><br />It was a long night for all of us, (well, except for Virginia who snored away), as we ended up sleeping on the floor next to Tinker to get him to relax. We tried to crate him, but he whined- and it wouldn't help matters for him to be stressed. So he got onto the big square cushion/bed we have on the floor (in addition to their regular bed- variety is the spice of life) and we laid on each side of it to both block him off and keep him calm. (At one point I woke up with Tinker leaning against my nose.)<br /><br />We called up the <a href="http://www.animalerc.com/">Animal Emergency Referral Association</a> (AERA) on Monday morning, where Tinker had his back surgery, to make an appointment with his neurologist, Dr. Christiane Massicotte. Timing is everything and luckily Dr. Massicotte had just returned from vacation. We were also fortunate that there was an opening due to a cancellation in the afternoon.<br /><br />Tinker was examined by Dr. Massicotte as well as the AERA's neurologist in residency, Dr. Jenny Scarano, and X-Rays were taken. The determination- Tinker's back was fine...Phew! However, he has a partial tear in his right rear <a href="http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_ruptured_anterior_cruciate_lig.html">Anterior Cruciate Ligament</a> (ACL). He had torn the same ligament in the Summer of 2006, but not to this extent. Thankfully though, it is a tear and not a rupture, which might have required surgery to repair.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinkmonkey.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinkmonkey.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>So, his remedy is crate rest and a daily dosage of <a href="http://www.deramaxx.com/home/default.asp?page=0_0">Deramaxx</a>, an NSAID, whose use, <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/health/drugs/2005-04-11-dog-pain-usat_x.htm">like Rimadyl</a>, has us very concerned. Steroids are not prescribed in this instance, so we somewhat reluctantly agreed to follow the prescribed course of action (We will be adding a Milk Thistle supplement to Tinker's daily regimen to help cleanse his liver of toxins.). Rest is the key.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">In order to take make it easier for Tinker to do his "daily business", we are back to using the rear sling that we employed 3 years ago when Ti<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos18.flickr.com/22933230_53eb63a739_m.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 233px; height: 140px;" src="http://photos18.flickr.com/22933230_53eb63a739_m.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>nker injured his back. He took to it this morning just like old times and walked around balanced on his front two feet with ease. We on the other hand are suffering some forearm muscle aches we haven't in a while ;) . We have made one concession and that is to allow Tinker to sleep on that roomier square bed (instead of the crate) at night so he can spread out a little more.<br /></div><br />Our first milestone is in 2 weeks, when we have a follow up visit at AERA.Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-66350275038640761762008-06-29T16:58:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.392-07:00Any port in a storm<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinkstorm.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 252px; height: 191px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinkstorm.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker </span>loves a lot of things, but <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker </span>does <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> love thunderstorms. He's not bad until the thunder gets loud as the storm gets closer... and then he begins to quiver and pace. So out comes the <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.rescueremedy.com/">Rescue Remedy</a>. 3 squirts from the spray bottle works well, and we repeat it every 15-20 minutes if the storm lingers. That and finding a "safe spot" to den in, seems to help him to manage.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinknotlike.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 425px; height: 295px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinknotlike.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></div><br />Just like people do, dogs can find ways to deal with their fears. In his case, it's under the living room end table. We bring out a comforter to snuggle in and his stuffed pal <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ernie, </span>and under he goes. Pretty soon the Rescue Remedy and relaxation kick in and he nods off to sleep.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinksnuggle.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 415px; height: 343px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinksnuggle.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />And what is <span style="font-weight: bold;">Virginia </span>doing during the storm?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/virginiaboney.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 437px; height: 352px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/virginiaboney.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />"Storm, what storm? I've got boneys to chew!"<br /><br />For a dog who has separation anxiety, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Virginia </span>is amazingly unflappable about everything else. Riding in the car, thunder and lightning, loud noises, etc. - no problem. During a storm she'll continue doing whatever it was she was doing- chewing on a bone, sleeping, waiting for dinner. Occasionally, she will go and lay down with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker</span>, but that usually happens much later.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinkvatogether.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 437px; height: 327px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinkvatogether.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />See <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker</span>'s little stuffed friend Ernie curled up next to him? :)Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-76909258393599893322008-04-27T17:34:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.402-07:00Happy Gotcha Day TinkerThis Tuesday, April 29, will be four years since our wonder boy came into our lives. Tinker the little dynamo, the little engine that does, is Mr. Happy Go Lucky. As you've read on this blog many times, he's always happy, always upbeat, even when he's going through a tough/rough stretch.<br /><br />Happy 4th Gotcha day to the boy with the spotted feet and sweet tummy. We love you Tinker. :)Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-74851858742971074212008-04-20T19:20:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.410-07:00Happy Gotcha Day Virginia<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqve2VlFAscTaYbh-eXesmWe8eVmyDwgsbJFoqqrsKxA_XXIo6GP85htxoQK4_duCdxe2M0ibmR6YpilEZRiI9FlC9DHDdTX8hjtfOH_ZYFNCG9UslaTHOh75oKFQog29n9JzQmLLvlqg/s1600-h/Virginia.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 182px; height: 280px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqve2VlFAscTaYbh-eXesmWe8eVmyDwgsbJFoqqrsKxA_XXIo6GP85htxoQK4_duCdxe2M0ibmR6YpilEZRiI9FlC9DHDdTX8hjtfOH_ZYFNCG9UslaTHOh75oKFQog29n9JzQmLLvlqg/s320/Virginia.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5191512499455023058" border="0" /></a>In April of 2000, I surprised Caron for her birthday by taking her to <a href="http://sosbeagles.org/">SOSBeagles</a> headquartered in Bordentown, NJ. I had been looking for a young female beagle for some time. I did searches in Yahoo and came up with some sources, but no luck (including <a href="http://.petfinder.org/">Petfinder</a>. That's when I stumbled across <a href="http://www.beagles-on-the-web.com/">Beagles-on-the-Web</a> (which ironically Caron now runs).<br /><br />BotW had many links including rescue groups, which I really didn't know anything about at the time. Included was the link to SOS. Among the dogs listed was a picture of a sweet little tri-color female (only about 20 pounds then) who had both ears back and diamond shaped markings on her back. It said her name was Virginia. It was love at first. It seemed like her eyes were saying, "come and get me Daddy".<br /><br />I immediately filled out an application and sent it off. I followed up with several phone calls over the next couple of weeks to be sure Virginia was still there. Finally, on April 20, 2000, Caron, my brother, and I drove to Bordentown on Caron's birthday.<br /><br />She had no idea where we were going and still wasn't sure once we had pulled into the place. That is... until she heard the barking and arooing! She has trouble remembering anything after that. <img src="http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sprachlos/speechless-smiley-022.gif" /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibZY6Aq50KuRvSuEyyidr4yeO_yoP_tqF7-xdyTsJpkOr2ze4AeZ5DjW7s_XiqImci1oKLKTFx48cuTa-3AYyTIhMqaKradrxqW7mxcp-mMsXvNByMfHl2qcJ3upJCoyhW7-rrBWZvJw/s1600-h/FirstMeal.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 276px; height: 185px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibZY6Aq50KuRvSuEyyidr4yeO_yoP_tqF7-xdyTsJpkOr2ze4AeZ5DjW7s_XiqImci1oKLKTFx48cuTa-3AYyTIhMqaKradrxqW7mxcp-mMsXvNByMfHl2qcJ3upJCoyhW7-rrBWZvJw/s320/FirstMeal.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5191515029190760434" border="0" /></a>We met two other dogs (Sadie and Pebbles, both of whom were later adopted) in addition to Virginia, but she "had me at hello". Caron said, "are we really going to do this?" And the rest is history. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.websmileys.com/sm/love/663.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 26px; height: 27px;" src="http://www.websmileys.com/sm/love/663.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Today was Virginia's 8th "gotcha day" and we couldn't have asked for more in a dog. We could do without the separation anxiety, but she's golden when it comes to everything else. She is as sweet as can be, smart as a whip, and a great big sister to Tinker.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQih3qQJGkB7e-ys0GmduCe5pilnCef6HfpdA-jF39w9C-OJzzemI2xcPH0-bu_056XTt5nHtNoLAwEclaUNx16XIrbrFwdfWGVqsJMGEBIF15AFNLFKrdhDewlT1fmhcKvgLSqlwq4D4/s1600-h/Feb+08+066.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQih3qQJGkB7e-ys0GmduCe5pilnCef6HfpdA-jF39w9C-OJzzemI2xcPH0-bu_056XTt5nHtNoLAwEclaUNx16XIrbrFwdfWGVqsJMGEBIF15AFNLFKrdhDewlT1fmhcKvgLSqlwq4D4/s320/Feb+08+066.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5191515510227097602" border="0" /></a>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-88384668730014859302008-03-30T19:45:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.420-07:00Free at LastTinker's 4 weeks of crate rest are up and now he can slowly start working his way back to having his freedom. He'll be either in his ex-pen or loose (under supervision) for the next 3 weeks as he builds his muscle strength and stamina back up. If all goes as planned, he'll then be back to his usual routine (minus jumping up on the futon or jumping up and down while waiting for his food), and not be restricted other than the norm (i.e. no stairs).<br /><br />Tink was a great patient while in the crate. He rarely complained and went right back in after eating or doing his outdoor business. A few nights ago we let him start sharing the bed again with Virginia at night, and we're sure we saw him smile. She's the straw that stirs the drink and he missed cuddling with her.<br /><br />Thanks to everyone who sent their well wishes!Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-39344327670888186002008-03-09T17:05:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.430-07:00Holding Our Breath<img src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinknose2.jpg" align="left" />If you saw this week's (3/9) photo you would have seen a picture of Tinker chilling in his crate. That's because our little dude is on 2-3 weeks of crate rest due to soreness in his back.<br /><br />Tinker was acting a little odd last Monday and it continued into Tuesday morning. Based on what occurred 3 years ago, we wasted no time in calling up AERA to make an appointment with his neurologist, Dr. Massicotte.<br /><br /><img src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinkmonkey.jpg" align="left" />After examining him thoroughly, Dr. Massicotte felt there were indications of soreness and discomfort in an area below where he had his surgery in 2005.<br /><br /><br />So back into the crate our little boy has gone. He's also getting a tapering dose of prednisone for the next 3 weeks. We go back for a follow up a week from Tuesday. We'll be thinking positive thoughts until then.Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-59657793203221544672008-03-03T08:20:00.000-08:002010-05-31T17:46:11.438-07:00Time Certainly FliesThis past Saturday, March 1, was the 3rd anniversary of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker's</span> return home following his disk surgery (Feb 23, 2005). It's hard to believe it has been 3 years since the whole nightmare occurred, but it is not hard to believe the progress Tinker has made since that day, because of his incredible spirit.<br /><br />He never ceases to amaze us. He has walked unassisted since October, 2005. We actually have to discourage him from doing some things, such as jumping up and down while waiting for his food. It's incredible how high he can leap considering he had a back injury.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/TinkerCart.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 338px; height: 236px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/TinkerCart.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/TinkerToday.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 221px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/TinkerToday.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />We have become Tinker's personal elevator service since we don't allow him to do stairs- in an attempt to lessen the risk of a future injury. He's allowed up on the futon, but not the couch or our bed, which are both considerably higher. And we monitor his rough housing with other dogs, since he basically loses his mind in play!<br /><br />Most of all, we just let the boy be the boy. And make no mistake, it took some time for us to let go of our reservations and fears and let him be himself. It is very easy to be overprotective after such a devastating injury, but there's no stopping this 21 lb. bundle of Joy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tinker's Pals Needing Homes</span><br /><br />Not every dog or dog owner is as lucky as Tinker and the two of us. There are other Beagles with the same or similar injuries that are looking for homes. Two of those dogs who are currently part of a Special Needs feature on <a href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/">Beagles on the Web</a>, Trixie and Miss Haley, use carts to get around. Both of these dogs need loving, caring homes where they can just be themselves.<br /><br />Just click on their pictures to view their Petfinder listings, and if you are interested in adopting or helping out one of these precious pups, please contact the appropriate rescue by phone or email.<br /><br />Tinker says thanks! :)<br /><br />Trixie<br /><a href="http://search.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=9821715"><img src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/thumbTrixie_NJ.jpg" align="left" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Miss Haley<br /><a href="http://search.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=9449479"><img src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/thumbMiss%20Haley_PA.jpg" align="left" /></a>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-78425650782603121652008-02-03T20:20:00.000-08:002010-05-31T17:46:11.447-07:00Our Own Puppy Bowl<img src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/PandyToy.jpg" align="left" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This weekend the Giants made Super Bowl magic and puppies made Puppy Bowl magic. But on Friday night and Saturday morning, we had our very own Puppy Bowl magic.<br /><br />A few weeks ago, C found a Beagle/Shephard mix in a high-kill shelter in Georgia. A friend said she would adopt little Mary if no other adopters were found. Soon Mary was renamed Pandora, aka Pandy, and was on her way to Project Zero in South Carolina for a week. Then a transport took Pandy to a short term foster in southeastern Pennsylvania.<br /><br />On Friday night, Pandy was transferred to me at my office and home we went. Unfortunately the weather was miserable on Friday so Pandy could not meet Tinker and Virginia outside. So inside we went and it wasn't long before Pandy became Pandemonium.<br /><br />Endless puppy energy, chewing on everything she could get her teeth on and into, including our hands. Tinker was instantly in love. After dinner, he and Pandy wrestled for 2 hours straight. Finally, we put Pandy in her crate so <del>we</del>they could get some rest. Virginia, meanwhile, was in no way, shape, or form happy to have a ball of energy bouncing around her.<br /><br />Pandy slept through the night, without incident. The next day she wanted to wrestle Tinker again, but Tink, who will be 8 in a little over a week, just wanted to rest up. Pandy tried to entice Virginia, but after a small skirmish (the 2 girls barking in each other's faces), it was no dice. So Pandy just amused herself- rolling, biting, romping, rollicking until her new Mommy came to pick her up (needless to say it was love at first sight).<br /><br />We waved bye-bye to Pandy and things went back to normal...after a very long nap.Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-27204669190013389112007-09-16T08:00:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.456-07:00Endless Summer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinkerbeach.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 284px; height: 220px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinkerbeach.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>... If only that were the case. Tinker and Virginia certainly wouldn't mind an endless summer, especially if it meant getting to go to the beach every day. The dynamic duo had a terrific time on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, a very dog-friendly area.<br /><br />As usual, Tinker spent most of his time on full alert, sniffing for any other dogs in the vicinity. When he'd see a new dog, he completely lost his mind- screeching, barking, begging to play with them. Now keep in mind that 90% of the dogs down there are off-leash, but Beagles should NEVER be off-leash. (Yes, I know there are people that may disagree, but once they pick up a scent, Beagles have their own built-in getaway car.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/virginiabeach.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 295px; height: 219px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/virginiabeach.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Virginia, meanwhile, loves to find a spot and plop down with a "snoof"- exhaling away the sand from her nose as she lands. She does pop up when Tinker "sounds the alarm" that another dog is nearby, and then she begins to unleash her deep, throaty protective bark. This began, on vacations pre-Tinker, back in Cape Cod in 2000-2001. We had never seen her react like that before. But she is our beach blanket security guard and she does a fine job. When the "threat" passes we tell her to "stand down".<br /><br />Both dogs love bananas, and we generally share pieces with them as we eat them. A bite for us, a piece for each of them, and so on. Well on vacation, my brother, sister, and Dad were all there, meaning lots more banana for the Beags. In fact, their "granddogpa" is referred to as "Bananaman" and they recognize exactly who we're referring to when we use that phrase.<br /><br /><object height="350" width="425"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/WWgbxYUQgtg"> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/WWgbxYUQgtg" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="350" width="425"></embed> </object><br /><br />During nighttime TV watching Virginia enjoyed her time curling up on one of the couches, while Tinker hunkered down along the side of the couch on a crate pad. Occasionally we would put their bed behind the couch and one or both dogs would curl up inside.<br /><br />As you may recall, to decrease the chances of him blowing another disc, we don't allow Tinker to go up and down the stairs; so we carry him. Thankfully, he's only about 21.5 pounds and is built kind of like a cat, but it still can get tiresome hoofing it up and down the stairs while carrying him to take him out. It's especially tough in the large houses of the Outer Banks where we spend most of our time on the 3rd floor. But this house had an elevator...woo hoo...good stuff.<br /><br />The elevator had a sliding inner fan door and each level had an outer door, which is built like an ordinary interior door. Each and every time Tinker went into the elevator, he would tip his head from side to side (like Nipper, the RCA dog), as he stared at the door, wondering what that noise was on the other side. Of course none of us thought to film it. Maybe next year.Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-33608034037867848282007-09-01T07:33:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.465-07:00Down the Shore<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/OBX%20094.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/OBX%20094.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Those of us who live in New Jersey use the phrase "going down the shore" to refer to beach visits. Well Virginia and Tinker are headed to the North Carolina shore for a week of fun on the beach. This is Virginia's 6th trip (2 to Cape Code plus 4 in NC) and Tinker's 2nd. They'll tell you all about when they get home. :)<br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/OBX%20095.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/OBX%20095.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-88613319924797467092007-04-29T20:48:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.475-07:00GotchaApril is a very big month in our household for a number of reasons. Two of them are 7- and 8-years old. April 20 was Virginia's 7th Gotcha Day and today, April 29, is Tinker's 3rd Gotcha Day. For those of you unfamiliar with the phrase, "Gotcha Day", it is the anniversary of when you adopt your rescue dog.Virginia was a birthday present for Caron back in 2000. It’s really hard to top a present once you’ve gotten, "the best birthday present ever". Tinker came along in 2004 when we were looking for a pal who would help Virginia with her separation anxiety. Tinker's zaniness has been the perfect complement to Virginia's laid back (except when left alone) style.<br /><br />He is the Yin to her Yang.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/gotcha2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 290px; height: 233px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/gotcha2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><p></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Virginia was very timid when we first got her, especially with other dogs.She was shy with people, but quicker to warm up to them than she was with her own species.<br /><br />Tinker, on the other hand, was Mr. Happy-Go-Lucky right from the start.If he were a person (which is not to say there aren't times when we could swear he is), he would be the type to go up to anyone, introduce himself, ask how the wife and kids are, and say, "Damn glad to meet you!".<p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/gotcha4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 294px; height: 162px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/gotcha4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></p> <p> Virginia is a model citizen in the car. She chews a treat-filled marrow bone, and then nods off for the duration of the ride. Tinker chews his treat-filled marrow bone for about 2 seconds, then will squeak, whine, squeal, and chirp like a bird. You might say he's not fond of being in the car. He gets all excited about the prospect of getting in the car, but the actual being in the car is not so hot.</p> <p>On the other hand, Virginia does not like being left alone in the house. She will bark, sometimes constantly, until we get home. Her separation anxiety hasn't gotten worse with time, but hasn't gotten a whole lot better either. She will go for stretches where she is not bad if we are out for the same time period on a regular basis (she’ll get used to a 9-5 work routine), but then she'll stress if we go out at another time.</p> <p>Tinker is perfectly fine if left alone.It's a rare occasion where one would be left without the other.If we leave for a short period of time, Tinker is not crated, but the stairs are gated off since he is not allowed to do them since his back injury. For longer periods of time, Tinker is crated and the gates are left down so Virginia can have free reign.</p> <p>The first rule of the household for Tinker, without question, is whatever Virginia is doing, he wants to<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/gotcha3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 245px; height: 183px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/gotcha3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> be doing, too.<span style=""> </span>Tinker follows her around, sometimes being the bratty little brother (endlessly licking her mouth, ears, face, nose, etc.), but mostly he just wants to be near her.<span style=""> </span>When we first got Tink, both dogs slept in their own doggy beds.<span style=""> </span>But Tinker began to crawl into <st1:state><st1:place>Virginia</st1:place></st1:state>’s bed to snuggle with her.<span style=""> </span>Eventually we bought them a bed that's probably big enough for a Golden Retriever.<span style=""> </span>And even though there is plenty of room in the bed, there are many winter nights when we have to move Tinker, because he has basically laid down right on top of her (Mr. No Personal Space).<o:p></o:p></p> <p>Having a second dog definitely took some getting used to. It's not simply a matter of doing everything times two. I was even concerned that Virginia would be receiving less attention (we definitely project our own feelings on dogs sometimes) with another dog around. I couldn't have been more wrong.</p> <p> Now it’s difficult to remember the time before Tinker came along.Now we have two times the entertainment, fun, nuttiness, and general Beagle kookiness. We wouldn’t have it any other way.</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/gotcha5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/gotcha5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></p>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-19068406891885512012007-02-23T19:06:00.000-08:002010-05-31T17:46:11.484-07:00The Anniversary WaltzToday marks a very special day in the life of one Tinker the Beagle/JRT aka Dude. It's the 2nd anniversary of the surgery that would help restore Tinker's ability to walk. He continues to amaze us not only with with his recovery, but his spirit and playful nature.<br /><br />Every morning starts out the same way. Virginia decides it's time to get up, and Tinker follows. He first runs to one side of our bed for some loving. As you pet him he curls into an elongated letter "C". He will eventually run to the other side of the bed for equal time. If you're not paying attention, he'll make sure you are by standing on his back legs and grabbing the top of the bed with his front paws in attempt to hoist himself up (which we don't allow). Meantime, she hops up on the bed for a minute or two of early morning hugs.<br /><br />Then it's time for morning calisthenics. She stretches then he stretches. She shakes out then he does the same. He worships the ground she sneezes on. Then they dance and prance and squeak to let us know it's time to go downstairs and begin the day.<br /><br />Once the gate in our doorway is removed, Virginia will run down the stairs and one of us will carry Tinker down. While Virginia will hang out on the couch, futon, or on the floor by the glass sliders, Tink will settle down in a dog bed, on a crate pad, or with Virginia in the window.<br /><br />Once he gets antsy - slang for he really has to go - he'll begin to lick Virginia's ears, nose, eyes, etc., to the point of annoyance. Not necessarily Virginia's, but it makes us nuts after a while.<br /><br />After both dogs have gone for a walk and done their business, breakfast is prepared. Tinker, as you may have seen in the post titled "The Hunger" below, appears to lose his mind while he waits. Actually his focus is never stronger. He cannot be dissuaded, assuaged, or distracted (where's a thesaurus when you need one?) from his focus on whomever is readying his food.<br /><br />Once breakfast is over, the dynamic duo settles down for some serious treat eating (rubber saucers, marrow bones, kongs). The remainder of the day is made up of trips outside, sleeping, and eating. The post-dinner scenario looks pretty much the same way. The final snack of the evening is indeed quite a treat. If I haven't been followed into the kitchen already, it won't take long for both Beags to get there once they hear the lid come off the cookie jar (which has a Beagle on it of course). Tinker will knock down anything that gets in his way to be first in line. Then the fun begins.<br /><br />VA and Tink each get an Old Mother Hubbard mini-bone treat. Virginia gently and politely takes hers from you, but you had better use an open hand with Tinker or you may lose a finger. Also, if you aren't quick enough in dispensing of said treat, Tinker will hop up and down on his right front foot, which will at some point end up on top of your foot, and will swat at you with his left front paw. It is never not funny.<br /><br />The night ends with Virginia zooming up the stairs and flying into bed, while one of us carries Tinker up the stairs. He quickly joins VA, sometimes getting in some final ear licks of the day and sometimes laying practically right on top of her because he is our "no personal space" boy- before they both snuggle down for the night, . We wouldn't have it any other way :)<br /><br /> 2004<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 203px; height: 162px;" src="http://www.beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> 2005<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 191px; height: 162px;" src="http://www.beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> 2006<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://www.beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> 2007<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://www.beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-10175691498716953142007-02-11T15:02:00.000-08:002010-05-31T17:46:11.493-07:00They Say It's Your Birthday......so Happy Birthday to you!!! Happy 7th birthday to our little dude, Tinker. They grow up so fast..sniff sniff. Tinker will be celebrating his birthday by sharing some peanut butter with his big sister, Virginia. That will be preceded and followed with several naps - in his dog bed, on the floor by the window, on the crate pads, and anywhere else he deems fit.<br /><br />Of course no day would be complete without 2-3 rounds of licking the inside of Virginia's ears, the bridge of her nose, and her eyelids.<br /><br /> <img src="http://animations.fg-a.com/birthd_001sm2.gif" align="middle" />Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-36551541001495179492006-08-30T17:21:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.501-07:00Cleared For Take-offWe've had two follow up visits with Tinker's neurologist, Dr. Massicotte; the latest was this past Tuesday. In the visit prior to that, Dr. M had felt that Tinker's back was doing much better, but she still wanted us to take things slowly with him. We were to come back in 3 weeks during which time Tinker should stay in his ex-pen so that he still gets adequate rest.<br /><img src="http://static.flickr.com/79/252544755_a43f1162a6.jpg"><br /><br />Tinker doesn't really mind being in the ex-pen , and Virginia likes going in there with him. Of course, she prefers that the door stays open. We began to increase the distance of his walks, though we were still not to push it too much. I was taking Tinker for a walk one night when he slipped on some uneven ground and start to fall on his butt. His position was similar to how he bends when he needs to move his bowels, so at first I didn't think much of it. (Because he doesn't have the strength to squat like a dog normally would, he has to be supported. This is done by pulling his leash upward and holding his tail up.) Unfortunately, this wasn't the case. Before I could grab him he fell on his backside with his back right leg twisted underneath him. As I grabbed him he immediately contracted the leg and it started violently spasming. I carried him inside quickly and we got on the phone to our regular vet, non-regular vets, and AERC.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Virginia remains calm</span><br /><img src="http://static.flickr.com/83/252544757_ceea20d2ef.jpg" align="left"><br />None of our usual vets were in, friends' vets were on vacation, and we really didn't want to go to the emergency room unless it continued to be a problem. All of the specialists were gone for the day. I held him on my lap for 30-45 minutes as the spasm continued. We speculated that he hyperextended something, but we couldn't know for sure. When the spasm finally stopped it was as if nothing had happened. In fact, he suddenly jumped as we prepared dinner. Everything was fine for the remainder of the week and we hoped it was just a minor thing. Needless to say we were anxious for our follow up visit with Dr. Massicotte.<br /><br />So now onto this past Tuesday... Before she examined Tinker, Dr. M had an idea of what had happened. First the good news. Tinker's back checked out very well. :) Now the not so bad news- but we still prefer it weren't the case. Dr. M explained what we had seen was actually a pain response. In this case it was a minor tear to his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). This was determined through examination and would really need an MRI for confirmation (Having partially torn my own ACL I was all too well aware of this). Because of Tinker's spinal injury he can't show discomfort in the way a "normal" dog would show. Whereas another dog might limp or walk differently, Tinker's reaction is an uncontrollable spasm that can last for minutes or longer. According to Dr. M., he would have the same reaction if he had broken a nail or cut his foot and there was pain.<br /><br />The prescription? - rest. Here we go again. Only thing is Mr. T is going on vacation with us this weekend. We'll just have to make sure The Dude takes it easy, because there's no way he's staying home. :)Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-72460955216899493772006-07-29T11:22:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.509-07:00Summer Bummer<span style="font-weight:bold;">Tinker gets 2 weeks behind bars</span><br /><br />Well, things took a bit of an odd turn this past Monday. If you have been following Tinker's recovery you know that he has been doing very well. Everything seemed as cool as the other side of the pillow. Then 3 weeks ago on Friday, July 7 Tinker had a bad day (see the post "A Not So Peaceful Uneasy Feeling" below). What was first thought to be a stomach ache began to look like signs of a back issue instead. For the next week, Tink's energy level wasn't as high as usual and he wasn't trying to jump up on the futon to be next to Virginia.<br /><br />We had scheduled an appointment with Tinker's surgeon, Dr. Christoper Hunt, at the AERC, but canceled when he seemed fine a few days later. The following Sunday, 7/16, I finally felt Tink was at 100%. Actually more like 125%. He was back to his version of normal, full of energy, going up on the futon, loving life. We still wondered though if we should take him for a check-up with his neurologist Dr. Christine Massicotte. A trip to Valley Vet for Tink's hydrotherapy appointment convinced us to do so.<br /><br /><img src=http://static.flickr.com/108/252551163_0f38d3d097.jpg><br /><br />Tinker's PT tech, Tracy, didn't want to put him in the hydrotherapy tank since it appeared that something might have occurred with his back. She didn't want to take a chance on further injuring him, plus of course they have to be careful of their own liability. So we scheduled an appointment with Dr. Massicotte for this past Monday. After examining him, Dr. Massicotte concluded that something was indeed going on with a disc toward Tinker's hind end. It was below the area where he had a disk rupture and had surgery a year and a half ago, but it was still very much a concern to her.<br /><br /><img src=http://static.flickr.com/112/252551167_dc14b081a4.jpg><br /><br />It was stunning to hear her words since we suspected maybe Tink had twisted something in a leg or hip or just had some temporary blip that caused him not to feel well. Dr. Massicotte shot those theories down with a resounding "no". The answer for now: 2 weeks of complete crate rest. No going for walks. No playing with Virginia. No fun. :( <br /><br />After a few deep breaths and realizing we were NOT back to square one, we realized that the next 2 weeks would not be easy, but we would get through it. For one thing, Tinker's attitude is still tremendous. Yes, he would rather be out of the crate, but for the most part he's been great. The first night was pretty sleepless since he "wanted to go over the wall", but since then he's been a model patient. Which, of course, was no surprise to us.<br /><br />We have almost made it up to 1 week of "incarceration" and we always remind Tinker how many days are left to go. Of course we're really reassuring ourselves, but...We have an appt. with Dr. Massicotte for August 7 for a re-evaluation and we will go from there. No matter the issue, Tinker is still one awesome Dude :)<br /><br /><img src=http://static.flickr.com/82/252551170_61015a220a.jpg?v=0>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-65837712721762145412006-07-17T10:47:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.519-07:00A Not So Peaceful, Uneasy FeelingI'm paraphrasing the Eagles song here because a week ago Friday, July 6, we had a bit of a scare with Tinker. Early in the day Tinker and Virginia had their every 5th week round of acupuncture and B-12 therapy. It went as it usually does - we struggle to keep them still so their needles will stay in and they lose their minds when they get their post-treatment snacks. They always manage to get extras from the staff, of course. <img src="http://209.85.12.227/554/120/emo/vicious.gif" border=0>.<br /><br />Later that afternoon, C was at her Dad's house when Tinker started showing signs of being off his game. He laid down under the dining room table- it didn't seem to be because he was looking for a cool spot. This was a behavior he never exhibited before. Tinker repeated this (laying under the table) that evening while we were eating dinner at home. Tink has looked for "safe spots" during a thunderstorms, but this was something different. He began to get restless and began methodically moving around the room, laying down for 30 seconds, getting up and moving somewhere else. The behavior continued to repeat itself and had us scratching our heads. Finally, Tinker jumped up on the futon next to Virginia and nodded off.<br /><br />He slept for about 30 minutes, but his restlessness had not gone away. During this time we remembered that he had snagged a piece of a chicken bone during his morning walk. We began to wonder if he had an obstruction of some kind that was making him uncomfortable. Ironically, just 2 days earlier we had been discussing what had transpired when he was injured in February, 2005 and how we would handle things differently. Specifically, we would make sure to get Tinker to the emergency hospital a lot faster if we saw something out of kilter with him. We took one look at each other and realized this was one of those times. We packed up the Beags and headed down to the AERC to have Tinker checked out.<br /><br />When we arrived, our little Dude's behavior was noticeably different then when we had been there before. That first night in 2005 when Tinker had showed signs of an injury, when we got to the AERC he was walking around, exploring, being his usual "Hey, how ya doin'?" self. That wasn't the case this time. He didn't want to walk to the examining room and he trembled as the ER vet checked him out. Tinker NEVER shows fear at the vet's. Both of us were tense as we feared this was more than his stomach acting up. Virginia was tense too, and whined and whistled through her nose to prove it. <img src="http://209.85.12.227/554/120/emo/rolleyes.gif" border=0><br /><br />Dr. Coogan decided to take an Xray and we waited impatiently out in the reception area for 20-25 minutes. While disc issues can't generally be detected on an Xray, they would make sure to to include his spine in the Xray. Thankfully the Xray showed no obstruction. The Dr. gave Tinker a shot of Pepcid and gave us Sucralfate to give him at home to help coat his stomach.<br /><br />We gave Tinker the Sucralfate on Saturday and Sunday, but by then we started to surmise that whatever was bothering him was not emanating from his stomach. Tinker loves to jump up and down, especially while food is being prepared, and also loves to jump up on the futon. We discourage this as much as possible, but sometimes you can't stop him. He was not displaying any desire to go on the futon and he was pretty sedentary, for him at least, while waiting for his food.<br /><br />We decided that we would make an appointment with Dr. Hunt, the orthopedist who had performed Tinker's surgery at the AERC. By Tuesday afternoon, Tinker had shown marked improvement so we decided to cancel the appointment and would see how the remainder of the went. One of the biggest problems facing Dr. Hunt would be that he had not seen Tinker for over a year. So, he had not seen his progress to the point of full recovery, and really had no frame of reference. So how do you know when the patient has taken a step back as opposed to just doing really great (which is how Tinker would appear to anyone who had not seen him on a daily basis).<br /><br />Friday afternoon came around and it was time for Tinker's underwater treadmill therapy. Tink's on about a 5 week "maintenance" schedule now. Tinker's rehab PT Tracy decided that Tinker should not go in the tank after hearing what had occurred. She felt the best course of action was to see Dr. Massicotte, Tink's neurologist. So we made an appointment for first thing Monday. <br /><br />Over the weekend, though, Tinker went from 90% to 120% recovered. We had our boy back. He was back to his silly self, running around like a horse, losing his mind over dinner, leaping on the futon, and rough-housing with his sister. We still feel something occurred, though. What, we just don't know. We've speculated that maybe Tinker twisted or pulled a muscle, a joint, etc., or perhaps there was some scar tissue inhibiting him that then broke loose.<br /><br />Needless to say, we are relieved that he is much better, but we have rescheduled our appointment with Dr. Massicotte for a week from tomorrow.<br /><br />Tinker would like to send his love to everyone and thank you for your continued good wishes. Keep those cards and letters coming! <img src="http://209.85.12.227/554/120/emo/love.gif" border=0><br /><br />Oh, and Virginia would like to know if you have any spare food laying around. <img src="http://209.85.12.227/554/120/emo/hmm.gif" border=0> She hasn't eaten in the past 5 minutes. <img src="http://209.85.12.227/554/120/emo/BigGrin.gif" border=0>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-15289296259858729412006-07-03T18:43:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.532-07:00A Day to CelebrateTomorrow is the 4th of July - a day to celebrate our country's independence. It's also another day for us to celebrate Tinker's independence from walking aids. We continue to marvel at "The Dude's" progress. Yes, there has still been additional progress. For one thing, Tinker has visibly added more muscle. At 21.6 pounds, he's a lean, mean loving machine.<br /><br />A good example of the difference a year can make occured when we went to a local 4th of July parade this past Saturday (7/1). We had gone to the same parade a year ago. Only last year Tinker was in his cart. This time around Tinker walked around, sat around, jumped around...<br /><br /><img src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker/tinker2005.jpg" align="left" /><img src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker/tinker2006.jpg" align="right" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />One of our highlights of this year's parade was seeing Zoey the Beagle again. We had originally met Zoey and her humans at last year's parade. And, Zoey's people were all smiles when they saw the progress that Tinker has made. And, Tinker wasn't the only one with a big change. Zoey was just a 5-month-old pup last year and is now a full grown Beagle girl.<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker/zoey2005.jpg" align="left" /><img src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker/zoey2006.jpg" align="right" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This time, Tinker got the chance to romp around with Zoey, which was a treat for everyone. Virginia likes to watch - "You guys go ahead, I have stuff to sniff".<br /><br /><img src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker/meeting.jpg" align="left" style="font-style: italic;" /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: italic;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;">A meeting of the minds</span><br /><p><br /></p> <p><br /></p> <p><br /></p> <p><br />It was very hot this past Saturday, but neither we nor the Beags seemed to mind. The warm weather this year, especially the milder weather in February and March, has really contributed to a very apparent improvement in Tinker's gait. With milder weather, we were able to take him out more often for longer walks, rather than just a quick in/out to do his business. It's also been very helpful in making sure that Tinker completely empties his bladder. Rather than when we just express him, he does most of the work himself in emptying his bladder. He's even begun to try to lift a leg at times, often balancing against the side of a tree. Tinker likes to create what's known in the business as "piddle art". :) It's the fine art of peeing as you walk, leaving a nice trail that is not only a work of art, but is also self drying! His routine tends to be: walk, pee, lick his legs (he tends to spray the back of his front legs)...walk, pee, lick his legs, repeat...</p><br /><br /><img src="http://beagles-on-the-web.com/tinker/futon.jpg" border="1" align="left" /> Though we don't allow Tinker to jump up on the couch or our bed we still let him go up on the futon, which is much lower to the ground. He likes nothing more than to snuggle up with Virginia on their cushy crate pads atop the futon. He usually gets a running start and then pushes off of the dog bed we have in front of the futon. His approach kind of resembles Spiderman swinging thru the air.<br /><br /><br /><br />Tinker still walks on an underwater treadmill and goes for acupuncture every 5 weeks. We figure by this time next year he'll be climbing trees. ;)Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-66496964823951516262006-05-03T20:37:00.000-07:002010-05-31T17:46:11.541-07:00Baby Ducks on ParadeWe took Virginia and Tinker for a walk this morning when, much to our pleasant surprise, we spotted a Momma duck with her newborns. Too cute. Here they are marching around.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/007GyJSZjEc"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/007GyJSZjEc" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-26013452597998234922006-03-19T14:39:00.000-08:002010-05-31T17:46:11.553-07:00The HungerNot a day goes by that we don't marvel at what Tinker has accomplished. People pay us compliments for taking such good care of him, etc., but we both know that this was all Tinker's doing. If not for his spirit and determination, he would not be where he is today. Every time I walk him, I am struck by the difference between his current healthy physical condition and my memory of how he was at this time last year.<br /><br />We took some videos yesterday to show his progress. The first video will make you think he never eats...LOL! Virginia and Tinker complement each other very well. Virginia loves the car, Tinker hates it. Virginia doesn't like her humans not being home, Tinker is okay with it. And, Virginia is completely calm during food preperation, whereas Tinker LOSES HIS MIND. While the fact that he is able to jump is remarkable, it is also frightening and we discourage him from doing it as we don't want a repeat of his injury.<br /><br />The second video demonstrates Tinker's gait from a side angle. It is short and the quality is not terrific- unfortunately he walks into shadow. We'll shoot and post a better one when the warmer weather returns...<br /><br /><object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zumWDF1eSO8"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zumWDF1eSO8" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="350"></embed></object><br /><br /><br><br><br />GAIT<br /><object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ClDm1JQhmUk"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ClDm1JQhmUk" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3667104986078597201.post-2415038166937724262006-02-18T18:37:00.000-08:002010-05-31T17:46:11.588-07:00To Hell and Back1 year ago today, February 18, 2005, our world was turned upside down when Tinker ruptured the disk in his back. 1 year later, February 18, 2006, we sit in utter amazement at the wonderous recovery of this little guy. He walks, he runs, he romps, he plays.<br /><br />To celebrate his recovery, Tinker and Virginia shared a tablespoon of peanut butter. Their joy reflects our own.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ybcLlbIFegk"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ybcLlbIFegk" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>Tinker's Dadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00905156754384524199noreply@blogger.com0