Ace of Spades Pet Thread

H/T ALH

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Good afternoon Horde. Welcome to the almost world famous Ace of Spades Pet Thread. Grab a S-N-A-C-K. SIT, STAY & Relax and enjoy the world of animals.

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A Little of This. A Little of That.

Cats assholes? No, couldn't be. Cats are purrfect photobombers.

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From our friend Hrothgar.

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Do you have some extra money burning a hole in your pocket? The ultimate doggy bed. H/T Anonosaurus Wrecks

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Jane D'oh wanted to share this with us. Thanks Jane.

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Dogs and preventive care for heartworms.

Cats can contract heartworm as well.

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A short and sweet story: The Resurrection of Gilly Bagoon and the Art of Promise Keeping. H/T Lurker Michelle

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The PetMorons

Thank you so much for the weekly pet thread. It is my favorite thing on a Saturday morning. The animals always cheer me when the news is too ugly.
Here is my last picture of my sweet Annie, sunning herself in a flower pot. She was so tubby when she was born we called her “fatty” but she stayed small and turned into a beautiful and calm tabby-tortoise. She went missing in August and we don’t know what happened, but she was with us for 9 years.
Mostly lurker, OzzieIsMyDog

So sorry to hear that your Annie is missing. She is a beautiful cat and looks quite at home in the flower pot. Thank you for your appreciation of the Pet Thread.

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This is Fuzzy Dumplin’. My husband found her on the front yard about 8, maybe 9 years ago. She was so small we thought she was a kitten, and promptly called her “Little Cat”, or LC. He coaxed her into the house and we put in a spare bathroom, gave her food, water and a littler box. The next day we took her to the vet, she was chipped and had been picked up from the SPCA four years ago! They had prepaid to spay her and never did. The reason she was so small is she was starving to death when we rescued her. The people never claimed her so we kept her and had her spayed, of course. When she gained some weight, my husband said she needed a new name, he let me choose from “Hairy Biscuit” or “Fuzzy Dumplin’” Obviously I chose Fuzzy. She likes to drink ice water. Laurie

Why aren't you the lucky couple!!! And Fuzzy is very lucky as well. What a great story with a happy ending.

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Moron and ‘ette:
Hank was previously featured in the Pet Thread and I think you used the Squinty Hank picture.
We got Hank in 2005 as I was getting ready to go to Iraq for the second time. He raised three young children into adulthood and was fiercely protective of my wife, but we knew he was all bark and no bite. Hank saw me through my wife’s death in 2016 and welcomed the addition of a grade school girlfriend into our family in 2018. We spent the last two weeks of March hand feeding rotisserie chicken after he quit eating his kibble, and took him to Savannah for one last trip – he was part of a military family and had been all over the country. The last picture is him in the wagon we rolled around the river walk for three days. He got lots of hugs and attention from the great people there, and the trip really helped me accept what was coming. Hank died peacefully on 31 March with his people around him. He was The Best Dog Ever. - Mostly lurker AnthonyB.

Anthony condolences on the loss of Hank. He certainly knew he was loved. The problem with pets is they don't live long enough. And thank you for your service. This Cob appreciates it.

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I always look forward to Saturday just for the Pet Thread! Here is Gracie, my 16 year old. She rescued me when she was a 12 week old feral cutie, but had I known the challenges of belonging to a feral kitty...heck I would have signed on anyway. She’s quite affectionate to me and would live on my lap if I’d let her, but any male better watch out. In the pic she is playing possum so maybe I won’t reclaim my favorite blanket. Thanks for the fun of the Pet Thread! Lili-beth.

What a wonderful story Lili-beth! Thank you for sharing with us today. Gracie sounds like she leads a charmed life.

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Great stories about great pets! Thank you for sharing with us today. Do you have something pet or animal related you would like to share with us? If you do, please submit your item to us here at petmorons at gmail dot com.

Have a great week!!!!

Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at 03:00 PM

Comments

(Jump to bottom of comments)

1 Happy Caturday!

Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 03:01 PM (pPNCa)

2
g'afternoon, 'rons

Posted by: AltonJackson (link in nick for MiMoMe) at April 13, 2019 03:05 PM (KCxzN)

3 The part that they don't live long enough sucks the most.

Posted by: pawn at April 13, 2019 03:06 PM (dPTGY)

4 Doing my taxes. Obamacare tax still there.

Posted by: I WAS PHONE at April 13, 2019 03:07 PM (vtd+q)

5 Doing my taxes. Obamacare tax still there.
-----
But there shouldn't be any penalty.

Posted by: lin-duh in keto at April 13, 2019 03:08 PM (UUBmN)

6 But there shouldn't be any penalty.

Posted by: lin-duh in keto at April 13, 2019 03:08 PM (UUBmN)
It is according to HR Block

Posted by: I WAS PHONE at April 13, 2019 03:09 PM (vtd+q)

7 Happy Caturday everyone

Posted by: Skip at April 13, 2019 03:10 PM (BbGew)

8 Nice pets Ya'll!

Time to file my tax extension so I can keep my money a little bit longer before I have to pay the looters in D.C.

Also, I would like to thank President Trump as I will only pay about half of what I paid before the tax cuts.

Now to just abolish the income tax altogether.

Posted by: Hairyback Guy at April 13, 2019 03:10 PM (Z+IKu)

9 We usually out live them but it's better for us to have them and for them to have us

Posted by: Skip at April 13, 2019 03:13 PM (BbGew)

10 Bluebird of Bitterness's weekly Caturday funnies: this week is National Library Week edition (could be reposted on the book thread tomorrow).

Titles illustrated include Little Women, Romeo and Juliet, Cheaper by the Dozen, Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, Treasure Island, Black Beauty, The Emperor's New Clothes, The Owl and The Pussycat, The Snow Queen, Puss in Boots, and many more.

http://tinyurl.com/yyu9nx3f

Doing my taxes.

Maybe next year the Library Week thread will have a picture of a kitteh shredding a Form 1040 (or throwing up a hairball or doing its business on it).

Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 03:13 PM (pPNCa)

11 https://___ur.com/dSqDoR9

Posted by: The Atom Bomb of Loving Kindness at April 13, 2019 03:15 PM (lXZ2r)

12 Anthony, Thank You for your service and condolences on the loss of Hank.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 03:16 PM (ZE3T8)

13 I would like to thank President Trump as I will only pay about half of what I paid before the tax cuts.

Same here. Gave the kittehs a special lunch (human-quality salmon) today in honor of The Donald.

Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 03:16 PM (pPNCa)

14 ugggg, the comment hamsters ate my url. see if this works. I think I saw it here, from before.

http://tinyurl.com/yy5sycu4

Posted by: The Atom Bomb of Loving Kindness at April 13, 2019 03:16 PM (lXZ2r)

15 Gracie looks like our Greta, who is a true feral cat. She wants to be alone. Although I was able to pick her up after she had kittens. Got her spayed.

She has a long-haired daughter who is also a calico. Isn't quite as skittish.

Posted by: KT at April 13, 2019 03:17 PM (BVQ+1)

16 "I S you knot."

Bad dog!

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at April 13, 2019 03:17 PM (t6MX/)

17 Dog looks like polar bear after bath:

http://tinyurl.com/yxesmujx

Posted by: FenelonSpoke at April 13, 2019 03:18 PM (FSPNP)

18 I cannot believe you pet morons did not link the amazing video footage of the Collie who saved his doggie friend from getting run over.
Daily Caller via WZ
http://tinyurl.com/y46cmd6z

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at April 13, 2019 03:20 PM (t6MX/)

19 (Hank) He was The Best Dog Ever

It sounds like you made sure he knew that!

Posted by: m at April 13, 2019 03:21 PM (ZfNws)

20 Whooo hoooo! I am awake and home for the Pet Thread!

So the ongoing saga of Old Cat, Old Dog, New Old Dog and toddler grandkids is ongoing. I have reached my intermediate goal in that the grandkid is now 2yo and still alive and unmarked by my animal residents.

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 03:23 PM (MIKMs)

21 RIP, Hank.

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at April 13, 2019 03:27 PM (t6MX/)

22 Nyah! Nekos! Kawaii desu

Posted by: Anna Puma at April 13, 2019 03:29 PM (OLZex)

23 Had to laugh at the kitty drinking ice water on the counter. My tortie Charlotte is the same way. She always eschews the water in her bowl for an unattended glass of ice water on the table.

Posted by: Rusty Nail at April 13, 2019 03:29 PM (Lr3FA)

24 Hi Pet people.

Here's a question. Has anybody had any unpleasant interactions with other dog owners when dog walking (on leash) at a public park? Here I would say 19 out of 20 people with dogs that you encounter are friendly and even cursory encounters are pleasant. There are the occasional bad apples though.

Posted by: Muldoon at April 13, 2019 03:30 PM (m45I2)

25 ((HUGS)) Anthony B. Vaya con Dios Hank. What a wonderfully loyal dog. Awesome that he was properly cherished.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at April 13, 2019 03:32 PM (pAkRe)

26 Never been to a pet park

Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at April 13, 2019 03:32 PM (aA3+G)

27 Diamonds are still a cat's best friend: from Opening Day 2019 for the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO): Cat runs on the field (displaying excellent extension) during the season opener for the Lotte Giants and the Samsung Lions on March 28:

http://tinyurl.com/yxwjqj7a

(HT to MLB's Cut 4)

Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 03:33 PM (pPNCa)

28 Thanks for another outstanding pet thread, Mis Hum!

Sweet Annie does indeed look sweet. Love those huge green eyes! Every Pet Moron is special, and very much loved by their human(s).

Posted by: Legally Sufficient at April 13, 2019 03:34 PM (RkS3d)

29 My companions have decided that rather than dealing with the toddler who loves them (is there a spy who loved me joke in there?), they are now all in with 4yo. One of them sits by him to cuddle (my take is that they know he is not going to enthusiastically choke them with 'hugs') and they share their blankies and toys. He does not want their blankies or toys which is why they offer them.

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 03:34 PM (MIKMs)

30 Cool video of the Border Collie saving the Chi. BCs are often crazy smart but that is still impressive.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at April 13, 2019 03:38 PM (pAkRe)

31 lili beth, your gracie looks like my valentine.....adorable!

Posted by: phoenixgirl at April 13, 2019 03:38 PM (0O7c5)

32 Never been to a pet park
=====

Me neither. Somehow I see it as a playground for socially aware twits (kinda like urban playgrounds with nannies) who really have no idea what 'socialization' means in a normal pet context.

I also worry about the disease vectors.

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 03:39 PM (MIKMs)

33 Yay, Pet thread. Yay, Moron pets. Smiles and sniffles as ever.

Pretty calico. We had four cats from one litter - one yellow, and three calicos. The calicos were mostly-black, equally mixed like the one above, and mostly-white. Almost two and a half decades ago, when we first moved back here. Gone so long. Still miss every one.

Good to see Basement Cat linking to Bluebird again so I don't have to.

I recommended her whole library week series to the Book Thread Bosses.
____
Vintage cat toon webwork linked in nic.

Posted by: mindful webworker - clix nix at yr own rix at April 13, 2019 03:40 PM (V0CWC)

34 rest in peace Hank. ((anthony)) so sorry for your loss...

Posted by: phoenixgirl at April 13, 2019 03:41 PM (0O7c5)

35 There are a few dog parks around I know of with multiple fenced in areas to keep dogs away from other dogs if need be.

Posted by: Skip at April 13, 2019 03:42 PM (BbGew)

36 (((HUGS))) Ozzie imd. What a fun picture of your sweet Annie.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at April 13, 2019 03:42 PM (pAkRe)

37 I too am sorry about Hank. He's lucky to have had you and your family. And thank you for your service.

Posted by: Marica at April 13, 2019 03:43 PM (0++T1)

38 A story about a lucky cat, told in pictures.

http://tinyurl.com/y2yohdae

Posted by: The Atom Bomb of Loving Kindness at April 13, 2019 03:43 PM (lXZ2r)

39 Yeah, we don't do the dog park. I was referring to walking your dog on a leash in a public park- walkways, paths, sidewalks type encounters. Some owners enjoy letting their dogs say "Hi" to other dogs, some not.

I encountered a lady one day with a German accent. After chatting briefly she said, "Ach, so can mein dog sniff your dog's butt?" I found that odd.

Posted by: Muldoon at April 13, 2019 03:44 PM (m45I2)

40 Love the cat poem. Ghost used to bring me mice to play with or kill, while we lived in an old farmhouse in DE. Now that we're in Texas, no mice; he's stuck with bugs, but has realized I have no interest unless he brings them to me dead.

Posted by: empire1 at April 13, 2019 03:44 PM (v7WnS)

41 http://tinyurl.com/y46cmd6z
Posted by: flounder

That border collie didn't break its pace for a millisecond, just snatched that puppy up and kept streaking along.

The woman getting out of the car at the end - that must've been pretty terrifying.

Posted by: mindful webworker - clix nix at yr own rix at April 13, 2019 03:46 PM (V0CWC)

42 A story about a lucky cat, told in pictures.

Leggy is indeed a lucky cat.

Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 03:46 PM (pPNCa)

43 I found that odd.

I should add that Buckley also found it odd.

Posted by: Muldoon at April 13, 2019 03:46 PM (m45I2)

44 And knowing the German reputation for matters scatological, I was a little worried that the owner might ask to sniff my butt as well.

Posted by: Muldoon at April 13, 2019 03:47 PM (m45I2)

45 For the past 4 years, I have the first "little dog" I have ever owned, my previous Labs always wanted to play with other dogs, but this small guy friendly to all humans sees another dog and it is on. So I steer clear of other walkers on walks. He is definitely the smartest one I have ever had though.

Posted by: Guy Mohawk at April 13, 2019 03:49 PM (r+sAi)

46 A grand bunch of pet morons!

As for the kitty poem, it reminds me of my mom's cat of years ago. We lived next door to a very grumpy old man who had little tolerance for people and spent most of his time in his garden with a preference for his grape vines.

One day I saw the kitteh on his back porch stairs, batting about a dead mouse. Mom was horrified that he would scream and behave badly about the trespassing feline, and I was told to quickly grab the cat and bring him in, hopefully unobserved. As I reached for her, he yelled "Leave her alone, we have a deal!!!' And he came out of the house carrying a bowl of chicken. He removed the rodent and gave kitteh the bowl. He said he gave her food for every rodent produced as the rodents damaged the garden. When mom remarried for the third time and was moving, he plead with her to leave the cat and promised she'd be welcome in the home. As hubby for was no fan of cats, she was happy to oblige. Old Mr Z and kitteh lived happily ever after, and former neighbors say he adopted a second stray.

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 03:50 PM (U7k5w)

47 Pet Thread! Great looking group this week!

Posted by: Weasel at April 13, 2019 03:52 PM (MGDet)

48 Fun story CN.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at April 13, 2019 03:53 PM (pAkRe)

49 Conor would love dog parks and meeting people and friends, but I take no chances with (possibly) stupid people/owners, unknown dogs with unknown socialization, and the possibility of unidentified canine diseases.

Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar at April 13, 2019 03:53 PM (f3oO4)

50 Have you cat folks read "Cats in the Belfry"?

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 03:53 PM (ZE3T8)

51 To my way of thinking, dog walking etiquette calls for maintaining control of your own dog on the leash and with voice, keeping a reasonable distance, if the other owner is inclined to stop and chat I let them know a little of Buckley's personality and if both owners are inclined, cautiously let them sniff noses, keeping the leashes from tangling up. Then proceed on your walk.

Posted by: Muldoon at April 13, 2019 03:53 PM (m45I2)

52 Old Mr Z and kitteh lived happily ever after, and former neighbors say he adopted a second stray.

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 03:50 PM (U7k5w)

Great story. Old Mr. Z was smart about people.

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at April 13, 2019 03:54 PM (t6MX/)

53 CN. that is a beautiful story! it could be a movie!

Posted by: phoenixgirl at April 13, 2019 03:54 PM (0O7c5)

54 "Leave her alone, we have a deal!!!' And he came out of the house
carrying a bowl of chicken. He removed the rodent and gave kitteh the
bowl. He said he gave her food for every rodent produced as the rodents
damaged the garden.
=====

Neighbors always talk about my tiny terror who swaggered through the neighborhood, gifting dead mice to those who gave her the good treats.

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 03:54 PM (MIKMs)

55 Ben --

Nope. Got a link?

Posted by: empire1 at April 13, 2019 03:54 PM (v7WnS)

56 Have to do a few chores. Thanks for another great pet thread Mis-Hum and all who sent pics and links.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at April 13, 2019 03:55 PM (pAkRe)

57 empire1, I'm not good at the link thingy but it is a book about living with Siamese cats by Doreen Tovey.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 03:56 PM (ZE3T8)

58 Have fun with The chores

Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at April 13, 2019 03:56 PM (aA3+G)

59 44 And knowing the German reputation for matters scatological, I was a little worried that the owner might ask to sniff my butt as well.
Posted by: Muldoon at April 13, 2019 03:47 PM (m45I2)

You're good so long as she doesn't start talking about "caviar"

Posted by: Iron Mike Golf at April 13, 2019 03:58 PM (di1hb)

60 Every pet thread week after week is a combination of funny, tender-hearted, and sad-which pretty much sums up pet ownership, doesn't it? This week is no exception. Lovely animals all. Thank you MisHum and other contributors.

Gotta say those kitty photo bombs, especially the butt shots are a riot.

Posted by: corn and beans at April 13, 2019 03:58 PM (tkNkP)

61 Buckley is friendly but not overly so with people when out and about. But he is fascinated with other dogs. When he sees a dog approaching on a walk, at about 30-40 yards off he will slow his walk, go on high alert, start to walk stiff-legged. (He is an Australian shepherd). He then will lie down and stay perfectly still as the other dog approaches. Typically the owner will steer around at a little bit of distance as we pass, while I stand still with Buckley.

After the dog passes, I gently call Buck and he resumes walking with me. He has never lunged at a dog, snarled, bristled or even tried to frolic (while on a leash). I always have attributed this to a shepherd overwatch type of behavior.

Posted by: Muldoon at April 13, 2019 03:59 PM (m45I2)

62 *for Muldoon*

There once was a Fraulein in the park,

Walking her dog, sniffs n' bark,

The butts they were sniffed, till we farted amiss, and they staggered away, sick n' tiffed!

Jim
Sunk New Dawn
Galveston, TX

Posted by: Jim at April 13, 2019 04:00 PM (0Kh3z)

63 Just got home from the third of three trips to the vet today, starting at 7 ayem. Nothing wrong -- we had just kept putting off health exams, and all three (one dog, two cats) were overdue for shots.

All are good. The older cat is obese, so we'll have to trim her food ration.

With the wallet flattened considerably, I need the Pet Thread today to remind me of the joys the furry ones can bring to our lives.

Posted by: Weak Geek at April 13, 2019 04:02 PM (ARF+3)

64 Last weekend, I was stuck at a baby shower for my eldest daughter. Good thing my ex-inlaws and I have been friends for years.

The big hit of the shower was one of the 'Carl' books by Alexandra Day. Copious tears means it was a good sentimental choice.

With the two crazy toddler grandkids at the house most of the time, I really miss my old rottie. The Old and New Old Dogs are great with them, but the intelligent herding and cuddles are really missed to defuse toddler angst.

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 04:02 PM (MIKMs)

65 Okay, thanks. I had a pair of Siamese at one time, and they had kittens, but my husband's parrot killed the kittens.

I was not pleased.

Posted by: empire1 at April 13, 2019 04:05 PM (v7WnS)

66 Anyway- a month or so ago we encoiuntered an older lady with a rather large mixed breed dog, well behaved on leash. They were standing about 10-15 feet off the sidewalk talking to another pet owner with a small breed dog. Buckley did his usual approach and the lady scolded me in an angry voice: "Why do you let your dog walk like that? That is aggressive behavior!!!"

I explained that this was Buckley's typical interaction with other dogs and that it was a shepherding behavior.

She again chided me that she "knew about dogs" and I shouldn't let him act in a "threatening way", especially towards smaller dogs.

I told her that she was free to interpret other dogs' behavior however she saw fit but it this particular case she was wrong. Buck never got within 10 feet of either dog and we went ahead and resumed our walk.

Maybe I'm overreacting, but I thought that was really uncalled for. I can 'get' people being nervous around strange dogs, but...

Posted by: Muldoon at April 13, 2019 04:05 PM (m45I2)

67 lurker AnthonyB.

Hank knew he was the Best Dog Ever because you told him so clearly in every way. Condolences to you and your family.

And a quote from another commenter I saw once upon a time:

"Their candles burn too fast!" ~ garrett

Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar at April 13, 2019 04:06 PM (f3oO4)

68 Posted by: Jim at April 13, 2019 04:00 PM (0Kh3z)

*****

Heh!

Posted by: Muldoon at April 13, 2019 04:07 PM (m45I2)

69 Maybe I'm overreacting, <<<<<<<
Nah, some people are just dicks.

Posted by: Guy Mohawk at April 13, 2019 04:08 PM (r+sAi)

70 We have another candle that's about to burn out here at Camp MH

Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at April 13, 2019 04:08 PM (aA3+G)

71 Muldoon, that person did not know anything about Aussie's.

The only aggression on display was hers.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 04:09 PM (ZE3T8)

72 Maybe I'm overreacting, but I thought that was really uncalled for. I can 'get' people being nervous around strange dogs, but...
Posted by: Muldoon at April 13, 2019 04:05 PM (m45I2)

People are often all too happy to be scolds. One day I was watching a young man play fetch in a park with his lab mix. Well behaved, the dog and the guy were having a great time, they were bothering nobody.

Along comes this sour looking woman to inform him that she had called animal control and that he should leash his dog immediately. She had actually stopped her car to do this. She hadn't even been in the park.

He just shook his head, leashed his now crestfallen dog, and left. I sent her a rather cold glare as she passed me. She was smug as all hell. She probably yells at wait staff too.

Small wonder I am a misanthrope.

Posted by: Pug Mahon at April 13, 2019 04:11 PM (PXJBj)

73 "Why do you let your dog walk like that? That is aggressive behavior!!!"

=====

My silly and uninformed opinion (according to kids didn't experience it yet) is that if the animal and owner look happy and prosperous it is a way to excuse their own failings; or, in some areas, to bait for a lawsuit. Now my own kids have their own dogs, they see the uncomfortable reality and why I was always so frantic about keeping the dogs 'controlled'.

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 04:14 PM (MIKMs)

74 Love the opening doggy joke. Even my shitzu thought it was funny. Haha

Posted by: NALNAMSAM - not as lean, not as mean, still a Marine at April 13, 2019 04:14 PM (Deh6i)

75 Hello, cute kitties and puppies!

That's all I have to say about that.

Posted by: ALH at April 13, 2019 04:15 PM (8wKjk)

76 I think I'll go wake Brody up and remind him how lucky he is. He has his own dog park.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 04:17 PM (ZE3T8)

77 48Thanks, after his wife died he was a near recluse, but became a friend to cats....and an enemy to mice and moles

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 04:20 PM (U7k5w)

78 I like the concept of bark parks, but they're not for us.

Our first dog, Shian (RIP), proved to be too timid for the park. Our current title holder, Libby, is too aggressive. She's not mean, but she's loud and lunging. The only command she knows is "Sit!", and I have to use it every time a car approaches on our walks.

It's a shame -- the parks are nice.

Posted by: Weak Geek at April 13, 2019 04:21 PM (ARF+3)

79 Another great Pet thread, thank you to all who contributed to it.
It is mousing season around here and my resident mouser is slowing down a bit, but he still manages to catch a mouse every now and then.
And then puts it right on wifey's boobez while she naps.
Screaming and thrashing ensues.
Blame is thrown my way, but I dindu nuffin.

Posted by: navybrat, stays off BART trains at April 13, 2019 04:22 PM (w7KSn)

80 Anybody have any experience with getting elderly dogs to improve leg muscles? 16 year old pup has some muscle wasting after a long round of steroids for a back injury?

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 04:23 PM (U7k5w)

81 Conor would love dog parks and meeting people and
friends, but I take no chances with (possibly) stupid people/owners,
unknown dogs with unknown socialization, and the possibility of
unidentified canine diseases.

Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar at April 13, 2019 03:53 PM

---

We used to take our dogs to a dog park when we lived in CT, they loved it.

Problem with those places is you can't prevent your dog from drinking from the community bowl, hose, mud puddle. Not everyone takes care of vaccinations for their dogs.

We quit taking them and wound up walking them to the town tennis courts that no one used. We would close the gate and let the run around loose there with a bunch of tennis balls.

Posted by: The Great White Scotsman at April 13, 2019 04:23 PM (JUOKG)

82 I think I'll go wake Brody up and remind him how lucky he is. He has his own dog park.

**********

Oh yeah. At our place in the mountains Buckley has 40 acres to roam and only one neighbor dog (they are sort of buds). He gets to act more like a regular dog, chasing chipmunks, barking at the occasional cow, watching the deer wistfully. Hopefully the snow has receded to the point we can get there within the next couple weeks.

Posted by: Muldoon at April 13, 2019 04:24 PM (m45I2)

83 navybrat, stays off BART trains

You could retrieve the mice and throw them on a BART train some fine day.

* looks around for SanFranPsycho, who probably has some choice words about BART *

Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 04:24 PM (pPNCa)

84 79 kitteh must love her greatly. By now screams are associated with joy as who could not love a mousey gift?

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 04:25 PM (U7k5w)

85 From our friend Hrothgar.

++++

Image doesn't show up. Opening it in a new tab throws an error you don't see often:

"Gone
Error 410"

Posted by: Anon Y. Mous at April 13, 2019 04:25 PM (U3075)

86 My cats had catnip yesterday for the first time in nearly two years. One enjoyed it, the other went crazy.

Posted by: Surfperch at April 13, 2019 04:26 PM (tVQUs)

87 CN. a shallow swimming pool with just enough water that there is resistance. Probably just a little less than chest high. Walk dog around in pool.

Start very slowly for it is a lot more work than it seems.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 04:27 PM (ZE3T8)

88 Yowling on the roof in a bacchanalian ecstasy?

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 04:28 PM (U7k5w)

89 Posted by: Anon Y. Mous at April 13, 2019 04:25 PM (U3075)

Personally, I blame MisHum for creating a 410 error.

Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar at April 13, 2019 04:28 PM (f3oO4)

90 Everybody heads up!

Time for all nice people who live near college campuses (campi?) to be aware and ready for the heartbreak of the student pets abandoned to whatever county is unfortunate enough to have an Animal Control in the area.

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 04:28 PM (MIKMs)

91 87. He's a toy breed, so a kiddie pool should work. Hell be like the aquacise ladies at the Y!

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 04:29 PM (U7k5w)

92 navybrat, stays off BART trains

You could retrieve the mice and throw them on a BART train some fine day.

* looks around for SanFranPsycho, who probably has some choice words about BART *
Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 04:24 PM (pPNCa)

Everyone around here is so excited about the BART extension they're building into town. I'll enjoy hearing their thoughts about it in about six years once the project's complete.

Posted by: Surfperch at April 13, 2019 04:30 PM (tVQUs)

93 Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 04:27 PM (ZE3T

BH: I am definitely NOT telling Conor about Brody's dog park!

Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar at April 13, 2019 04:30 PM (f3oO4)

94 87: Thanks!

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 04:30 PM (U7k5w)

95 CN, you got it. Great exercise and no impact.

We always used a pool to rehab the race horses.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 04:31 PM (ZE3T8)

96 Hrothgar, maybe Conor can come for a visit one day.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 04:33 PM (ZE3T8)

97 the heartbreak of the student pets abandoned

The irresponsibility of undergrads is the major reason why the cat rescue group I work with will not allow them to adopt any of our cats. Graduate students are usually okay because a) they're older; b) they don't party nearly as much as undergrads; c) most live off-campus in housing that allows pets (yes, we do check to make sure the grad student's lease allows pets).

Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 04:36 PM (pPNCa)

98 Afternoon Horde!

Another great Pet Thread, with wonderful pets. Hank brought tears to my eyes.

One wonderful thing that has happened in our family is Abner. We have just adopted an 8 week old Newfoundland/Bullmastiff puppy from a giant breed rescue, and hubby and daughter are driving back with him as I type. Losing our newf just about broke us. This little guy is already helping my daughter to heal. Dogs/pets are the best!!

Posted by: moki at April 13, 2019 04:36 PM (mFoNl)

99 Everyone around here is so excited about the BART extension they're building into town. I'll enjoy hearing their thoughts about it in about six years once the project's complete.

Ah, memories of Boston's Big Dig.

Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 04:38 PM (pPNCa)

100 95 You must have some pool! Grand dog might be able to use bathtub come to think of it

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 04:38 PM (U7k5w)

101 Ben Had--

"Water walking" is what we did while my husband was rehabbing from his knee replacements. It's amazing how much work it is compared to what it looks like from the side of the pool. A great way to rehab for people, so I'd think it would work well for dogs, too.

Posted by: Art Rondolet of Malmsey at April 13, 2019 04:38 PM (S+f+m)

102 Moki, that is such Happy news. New puppy and a million smiles.

Belly rub for Abner.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 04:40 PM (ZE3T8)

103 98: Getting another pet is a tribute to the love of the previous pet and girl who needs a dog and a dog who needs a girl are a perfect match!

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 04:40 PM (U7k5w)

104 One wonderful thing that has happened in our family is Abner.
=====

What wonderful news! Congratulations and confetti and thank you for the great news from those of us who can start getting a little bummed and need GREAT news.

Sparkles *****

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 04:41 PM (MIKMs)

105 I liked the poem so much, I type it into an email. To save anyone else the trouble, I'll past it here. I used the title as the subject line (and the underlining probably won't work when I post).

A Poem from the Cat
-----------------------------------

I thank you for the food you bring,

and for my little squeaky thing.

I thank you for your friendly talks,

and when you clean my litter box.

I thank you for the naps we share,

and putting up with tufts of hair.

I thank you for these things you do ...

enjoy this mouse I caught for you.

----

I'm an idiot sometimes.

Posted by: Off the reservation at April 13, 2019 04:42 PM (vWMNq)

106 ... well, the cut-and-paste did not work so well ... almost barrelled ...

Posted by: Off the reservation at April 13, 2019 04:43 PM (vWMNq)

107 Personally, I blame MisHum for creating a 410 error.

Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar at April 13, 2019 04:28 PM (f3oO4)

++++

I know, right?

The def for the 410 error is interesting. The object has been removed and will not be coming back. Stop linking to it.

That's a paraphrase.

Posted by: Anon Y. Mous at April 13, 2019 04:43 PM (uzSOw)

108 man I love this weekly thread.

Such a balm for the soul after another long week of dismal, infuriating news.

Our little gray and white tabby, Mischa, will turn 20 next week. She was born under a sheet of plywood leaning against a barn on a little farm outside of Bellvue, Colorado. She's doing remarkably well. Her sight is fading, but not cataracts - just old eyes. She also can't jump like before, but can get up on the couch without assistance. She greets me every evening when I get home, and sits on or near me for much of the evening. She still eats, and is not having accidents like our dear departed calico kitteh was last year.

Mischa is a marvel.

Posted by: Pug Mahon at April 13, 2019 04:44 PM (PXJBj)

109 Art, it is without a doubt the best way to rehab and also a great way to start an exercise program if someone is truly out of shape.

It is deceptive about how much effort it takes.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 04:44 PM (ZE3T8)

110 Abner is an awesome name. I need to have another son so I can name him Abner.

Pretty sure the Missus would be okay with that.

Posted by: Pug Mahon at April 13, 2019 04:46 PM (PXJBj)

111 Moki, was this rescue through Big Dogs/ Huge Paws?

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 04:51 PM (ZE3T8)

112 Thanks!

Abner is named for my dad's pet Angus bull. He wasn't too keen on dogs, but he delivered that bull, kept it in our house, and it followed him around the farm like a pup. It would roll over and let him scratch his belly too.

With the bullmastiff genes, I thought it appropriate.

As a kid name though...

Posted by: moki at April 13, 2019 04:51 PM (mFoNl)

113 111 Moki, was this rescue through Big Dogs/ Huge Paws?
Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 04:51 PM (ZE3T

No, although we have just been cleared by them to be adopters. This was through Mastiffs to Mutts, based in Pennsylvania. We have been talking to both groups to consider working together for areas that aren't immediately served by them. I am trying to convince my husband to let us be foster dog parents. He thinks I will fail miserably at it.

Posted by: moki at April 13, 2019 04:53 PM (mFoNl)

114 As a kid name though...

Yeah, it reminds me of Al Capp's L'il Abner, who, after all, lived in Dogpatch, USA.

Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 04:53 PM (pPNCa)

115
Yeah, it reminds me of Al Capp's L'il Abner, who, after all, lived in Dogpatch, USA.
Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 04:53 PM (pPNCa)

Which was for sale recently, by the way. For some silly reason, I thought it would be an awesome place for the Horde to hunker down in the burning times...

Posted by: moki at April 13, 2019 04:56 PM (mFoNl)

116 Fuzzy Dumplin is probably wondering why the bourbon at Laurie's house tastes so weak.

Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 13, 2019 04:58 PM (EZebt)

117 Moki, I think you'd be a great foster Mom.

I once fostered 13 Aussie puppies that were about 7 weeks. I had more fun than any one person should have. I didn't keep any of the puppies but took an Aussie /Rott cross that was a wonderful dog.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 04:58 PM (ZE3T8)

118 Getting back in-country tomorrow - sounds like my Senior Dawg hurt his back pretty bad. I'm hoping lots of naps together will get him back right. He won't lay down and rest while I'm gone.

Posted by: The Ugly American at April 13, 2019 05:04 PM (mJzia)

119 50 -- I practically have Cats in the Belfrey memorized. First time I read it many, many years ago, I laughed and giggled through every single page. I also loved Blondel, the squirrel.

I hope you know the author followed up with at least a half dozen more books. Also, St. Martin's reprinted at least the first two about ten years ago.

Also, if you enjoyed Cats in the Belfrey and the British sense of humor, you might enjoy The Cat That Came in From the Cold by Deric Longden. It was published in the States around twenty years ago. Bantam passed on the rest of Longden's books because they were too British and Americans are too stupid to get the meaning from the context. You can find them at ABE.

Posted by: Captain Josepha Sabin at April 13, 2019 05:05 PM (ebZss)

120 WeaselDog is helping WeaselWoman pick weeds on the patio. Good dog! WeaselWoman is pretty OK too.

Posted by: Weasel at April 13, 2019 05:07 PM (MVjcR)

121 Maybe one of these days OM will have a pet-themed literary book thread. I do want to recommend the Hank the Cow Dog series both as books and as audiobooks. Got my two younger ones to follow along with the author in the book. (I never read for my kids, my demand was that they read to me.)

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 05:08 PM (MIKMs)

122 Captain Josepha, Yes I have read all of her books and they are as good on every reread. If you have a cat and haven't read them you and your cat are missing out.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 05:09 PM (ZE3T8)

123 Back late. CN I'm on a small BB and some folks with older dogs are raving about Q-10 for muscle, hind end weakness.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at April 13, 2019 05:12 PM (pAkRe)

124 Mischa is a marvel.

Posted by: Pug Mahon at April 13, 2019 04:44 PM (PXJBj)
=====
Thanks for more good news.

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 05:16 PM (MIKMs)

125 mustbequantum, The Hank books were a delight also.

You gave your children a wonderful reading experience.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 13, 2019 05:17 PM (ZE3T8)

126 83 navybrat, stays off BART trains

You could retrieve the mice and throw them on a BART train some fine day.

* looks around for SanFranPsycho, who probably has some choice words about BART *
Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 04:24 PM (pPNCa)

===

I rarely ride BART, but this morning we were sharing rats-in-the-subway stories...

Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 13, 2019 05:19 PM (EZebt)

127 73 -- As the survivor of twenty years in the restaurant biz and a further twenty five in the retail sector, I can tell you there are just some who think they are incredibly more superior to anyone else, no matter the situation. The attitude is usually accompanied by money. The more money, the more attitude. There is also a certain group of women of a certain age who simply cannot be pleased. They can usually be identified by the sour look on their faces and the prissy pouting of their lips. Social status and money are optional with these harridans.

Posted by: Captain Josepha Sabin at April 13, 2019 05:20 PM (ebZss)

128 Also for the dog healing from back injury. Ole had back arthritis a couple years after a hay bale fell on him. He got 2 00 capsules of both Devils Claw and Tumeric 1 of each morning and night and did wonderfully. That surprised me because I didn't think dogs would get much out of herbs but I was nervous of Rymidol (sp.) One hears all the side effect stories on the web.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at April 13, 2019 05:23 PM (pAkRe)

129 Well, Hank and Annie made me cry, and I just put on my makeup for a rare Saturday night out. It is okay, I don't mind crying over our furry friends. Big hugs to their peoples!

I love the pet thread.

Have a great night everyone, hoping to catch the movie thread later on.

Posted by: squeakywheel at April 13, 2019 05:23 PM (VoolF)

130 As a comics* fan, I loved "reading" the "Carl" books to my kids. As I recall, it was more like a Q&A session: "What is he doing now?"

*Yes, comics! A comics story is a series of cartoons that tell a story. The Carl books certainly qualify.

Love Carl, but that mother needs to be watched.

Posted by: Weak Geek at April 13, 2019 05:24 PM (ARF+3)

131 120 WeaselDog is helping WeaselWoman pick weeds on the patio. Good dog! WeaselWoman is pretty OK too.
Posted by: Weasel at April 13, 2019 05:07 PM (MVjcR)

I'm glad Chez Weasel is doing well!!!

Posted by: moki at April 13, 2019 05:24 PM (mFoNl)

132 Great thread as usual. Losing a non-human family unit member is like losing a human. We have a 16 yr-old cat and a 17 yr-old cat, both on their twilight cruises. They will not be replaced.

Posted by: Eromero at April 13, 2019 05:24 PM (qBNEP)

133 Had to grab a Kleenex, reading the story of Gilly Burgoon. Must be the pollen.

Posted by: creeper at April 13, 2019 05:25 PM (PLU0I)

134 Yes, the Hank books are really great for kids who are just graduating into "chapter" books. I stocked them for years because they are technically classified as children's mysteries.

Posted by: Captain Josepha Sabin at April 13, 2019 05:25 PM (ebZss)

135 man I love this weekly thread.

Same here; it's a weekly weekend gift.

Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 05:26 PM (pPNCa)

136 Where is it written that people who do not have dogs have to put with some Hound of the Baskervilles jumping on us and slobbering on us. Always in a public place. Never on a leash. And accompanied by some goober sporting a stupid grin, doing nothing to get this thing off me, and saying "Ah shucks, he just wants to be friends"

It is your dog stupid. Keep it off other people.

Posted by: VADM Collingwood RN - making Nelson look good at April 13, 2019 05:31 PM (9X60i)

137 122 Ben -- I sold a bucket load of Cats in the Belfrey when St. Martin's reprinted it. Most people who patronize bookstores are also pet lovers, and the vast majority of them usually have at least one cat. The book was ridiculously easy to hand sell.

Posted by: Captain Josepha Sabin at April 13, 2019 05:33 PM (ebZss)

138 I have often wanted to pick up a giant jug of soda and throw it on the aforesaid goober. There. How does it feel? Curb your stupid dog.

Posted by: VADM Collingwood RN - making Nelson look good at April 13, 2019 05:33 PM (9X60i)

139 The goober is invariably wearing some fan gear from a university that he not only never attended; but doesn't even know where it is.

Posted by: VADM Collingwood RN - making Nelson look good at April 13, 2019 05:35 PM (9X60i)

140 I rescued my first turtle of the year this afternoon.

A tiny little terrapin was in the middle of the street, after having climbed out of a lagoon on the way to another. There was no traffic, so I was able to pull over, pick the little thing up, and climb the berm he would have had to climb, and cross another street, and set him down to make his way to another lagoon.

Every year some idiots manage to run over even YUGE terrapins, as they (the idiots) speed through the neighborhood.

Doing my bit for Mother Nature, one turtle at a time.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at April 13, 2019 05:35 PM (ptqGC)

141 Chess Nood

Posted by: Skip at April 13, 2019 05:35 PM (BbGew)

142 hiya

Posted by: JT at April 13, 2019 05:36 PM (4Qe0G)

143 Thank-you for listening. Also thank-you for ignoring me.

Posted by: VADM Collingwood RN - making Nelson look good at April 13, 2019 05:36 PM (9X60i)

144
I'm glad Chez Weasel is doing well!!!
Posted by: moki at April 13, 2019 05:24 PM (mFoNl)
-----
All good here, moki! How's things? Ready for a lunch get-together anytime soon?

Posted by: Weasel at April 13, 2019 05:38 PM (MVjcR)

145 I managed to carry two boxes of syringes we used for the late great kitty Spanky when she had diabetes before she died, to give to our vet yesterday. Hadn't been there since I had her sister Sandy euthanized last May.

It felt so weird. One of the vet techs is trying to convince me to adopt another kitteh or two. But I just can't right now.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at April 13, 2019 05:38 PM (ptqGC)

146 Our cat, Freckles has been at the vet the past couple of days. She passed a black, tarry stool late Tuesday night. Vet saw her Thursday morning; she hasn't eaten much or pooped since Tuesday. She texted negative for diabetes, thank goodness.

They are going to give her an enema tonight and see if anything comes of that.

If not, I am guessing we are looking at end of life care for her here at the house.

She is 14 years old, and when we found her she was quite literally just skin and bones (and fleas). She has been purring with us ever since.

If you would, please add Freckles to your prayer list - much appreciated.

Posted by: Teresa in Fort Worth, Texas at April 13, 2019 05:42 PM (uDcBt)

147
*Yes, comics! A comics story is a series of cartoons that tell a story. The Carl books certainly qualify.

=====

Nana in Peter Pan. For some reason, kids' books do not really have parents. Anyway, the tribute to our own good dog was really sentimental because I think I am the only one who truly misses her for being a strong gentle paw to enforce rules for all of them.

Got another dog a few months after she died -- one of the wild labs -- because youngest kidlet saw the cartoon big paw prints on a school driveway and said she was there. Tried to talk about yes, she was always with us, but all the kids started crying . . .

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 05:42 PM (MIKMs)

148 136 -- It's the people who drag their dogs through the weekend Farmers Markets who get me. It's like the dogs are some sort of status symbol or virtue signalling. The markets are crowded enough without having to watch out for leashes and ankle biters. And I always wonder what dog nose has been sniffing and wheezing on the produce I buy.

Posted by: Captain Josepha Sabin at April 13, 2019 05:45 PM (ebZss)

149 Prayers up Teresa.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at April 13, 2019 05:47 PM (pAkRe)

150 Prayers up Teresa.

From me and my kittehs too.

Posted by: Basement Cat at April 13, 2019 05:51 PM (pPNCa)

151 Teresa, Prayers for your little one.

Posted by: Mrs. JTB at April 13, 2019 05:51 PM (bmdz3)

152 Prayers for your kitty, Teresa.

Posted by: Weasel at April 13, 2019 05:56 PM (MVjcR)

153 146: prayers for Freckles

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 06:02 PM (U7k5w)

154 Thanks, everyone. She is the sweetest, gentlest kitty ever. Not ready for her to go quite yet, but if it's time, I want her at home.

Posted by: Teresa in Fort Worth, Texas at April 13, 2019 06:04 PM (uDcBt)

155 Where is it written that people who do not have dogs have to put with
some Hound of the Baskervilles jumping on us and slobbering on us.
=====

You just reminded me:

Neighbor came over and talked about how her son was so hurt that his 'playing' with the dogs encouraging them to jump up and hug his shoulders and wrestle got him yelled at by me and reminded of his manners. Then I yelled at the dogs as well. Everyone went to time out.

Whoever thinks dogs should jump up for hugs or wrestle should be seriously disciplined. The poor animals can't differentiate between a strong young man and an elderly man, must less elderly ladies and little kids.

Four on the floor.

Posted by: mustbequantum at April 13, 2019 06:05 PM (MIKMs)

156 Teresa -- Nothing but good thoughts. I've sat vigil over far too many four foots myself, waiting for the moment it's time to call it quits. I hope this is just a blip and Freckles pulls through.

Posted by: Captain Josepha Sabin at April 13, 2019 06:06 PM (ebZss)

157 156: Whenever I have had to euthanize a suffering dog, I second guess the situation for about a year. Pets just can't tell you when they're tired of living, so I've always went with intractable pain

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 06:10 PM (U7k5w)

158 So far, she is not in pain, so euthanizing her is out of the question. Did that once, and hopefully will never have to do that again.

Far better when they can just pass peacefully when it is their time to go.

Posted by: Teresa in Fort Worth, Texas at April 13, 2019 06:17 PM (uDcBt)

159 158: Agreed.

Posted by: CN at April 13, 2019 06:34 PM (U7k5w)

160 Hank sounds like a grand dog, Anthony. RIP, Hank.

Some beautiful kittehs today - lovely big eyes on Annie, Fuzzy is adorable, and torties are my absolute favorite cats.

Once again, prayers for Freckles, Teresa.

We have our own 14-year-old kitteh. The Noodle didn't come up from the basement to eat breakfast about a week ago and we were frantic to find her. She was just chilling on a low shelf watching us, but obviously something was off because this is a cat that likes her food, especially in the morning when she gets her quarter can of Fancy Feast mixed with a little water. For a few days she wasn't eating very much, but we saw her drink so we put the panic on hold and waited a bit. After three or so days she was back to her normal habits. Don't really know what was wrong.

We do notice that she's moving stiffly, though. She can still jump onto the couch or bed, but jumping down seems like more of an undertaking. Today I bought some senior cat treats with glucosamine in them, supposedly for joint relief. Has anyone else tried these?

Posted by: Gem at April 13, 2019 06:39 PM (XoAz8)

161 And not to be morbid, but... what do you do with a cat that dies at home? This came up when we were on the hunt for Noodle and she ignored the shaking of the treat bag - I was sure she was gone!

This is the city; I don't know if I could or should bury her, or if I would even want to.

When the koi dies, which will be never, I'll just wrap him in newspaper and chuck him the garbage. I have a love/hate relationship with that big, expensive, stupid fish.

Posted by: Gem at April 13, 2019 06:49 PM (XoAz8)

162 Some cities let you put a small dead pet in the compost bin, if you have compost collection.
Otherwise, check pet crematoriums, they can usually let you drop off for a fee. They do large burns with lots of pets.

Posted by: navybrat, stays off BART trains at April 13, 2019 06:55 PM (w7KSn)

163 I'll probably close out the thread with this rather strange story.

We have had a variety of feral/barnish cats here ever since we moved in, long time passing. Some years ago a mismatched pair showed up. The more feral of that pair was named Stranger by Mrs H, shortly after his arrival, and the other cat was named CamoCat because of his markings. The morning ritual for some years has been to feed them in the AM, and the pair then sun themselves and generally lounge around the yard. Several days ago, Stranger failed to show up for breakfast, which was not usual, but not alarming (CamoCat was there as always). However after several days of no appearance by Stranger, I became worried, but there is no way to search for a missing cat here. Last night I had a vivid dream that I was outside in my yard. There I saw Stranger gliding along the fence line, obviously heading somewhere important, but partially obscured by weeds/brush, Then he vanished behind very thick weeds and I never saw him again.

I'd like to think he came back in my dream to thank me for taking care of him for years, let me know all was well, and that he was heading for the Rainbow Bridge to see Mrs H.

Of course this is all crap, right?

Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar at April 13, 2019 07:05 PM (f3oO4)

164 ==what do you do with a cat that dies at home? ==

I have seven beloved cats buried in an area of the yard right outside a living room window. They each have a natural stone grave marker with a unique color or shape and I can look at them out the window and remember them anytime I wish. We have lived here over 30 years. The oldest stone has moss growing on it and the newest (and most raw) still has a mound that has not yet fully sunk down. Our longtime vet knows that anytime a pet cat of ours has to be euthanized it's coming right back home with us.

Posted by: corn and beans at April 13, 2019 08:38 PM (tkNkP)

165 I have 3 buried in our yard. 1st was just a kitten.
Nellie was her name. I had promised the kids that when we bought a house we would get a cat. The shelter had a 2-for special. The kids fell in love with her and her cell mate, a stray that was about a year and a half older. Max was like her big brother. She died about 6 months after we got her. Can't remember now what she had, but vet said it was slim chance she'd make it through the nite. And she didn't. Died in my hands. Daughter was heart broken and our other cat, Max, was a lost soul without his little buddy. Not long after, my niece had to give up her cat, Jack. She asked us to take him. Jack barely tolerated Max but after a while he succumbed to his charms and they were best buds. Jack was about a year younger than Max, but Jack died first. Daughter was away at college at the time. That was a hard phone call as he was 'her cat.' He also died in my arms. About 4 years ago, Max decided to stop eating. Vet couldn't find anything wrong with him. We force fed him, and he accepted that for a few weeks. He was so arthritic, and I knew he must've been in pain, but he never complained. I knew it was close to the time for him to leave us. I came home from work and my son said that Max had been laying on the couch, not wanting to move. When I came in the room, he perked up, jumped off the couch, walked over to me and said 'hi.' He was such a sweet-talker! I sat down by him and he purred up a storm. Then he layed down next to me, and died. He waited til I came home to say good bye. :'(
Max is buried next to Jack, in my flower garden. It's under the window where they sat to talk to the birds and squirrels and bunnies.

Posted by: My life is insanity at April 13, 2019 09:08 PM (Z/jzm)

166 A little story I saw in Reader's Digest a good many years ago:

A late-middle-aged couple were sitting at the breakfast table, and the husband was describing the odd-but-nice dream he'd had the night before: "There was
Freddo, and Sam, and Catcher, all the dogs I had when I was a boy growing up. And they could talk. And Freddo was saying 'Hiya Boss, we've missed you. We all came here together to bring you home.' Isn't that weird? But you know, it's kind of nice to think I could be with my doggy buddies again in the hereafter."
And then a few weeks later, he had a heart attack and died in his sleep. His wife, who had submitted the story, said "That's what made it bearable: the thought that he wasn't gone, really; he was just in the next world, playing with the furry friends he'd loved so much in his childhood."

Posted by: Doo-Dah, Doo-Dah at April 14, 2019 01:29 AM (bB2I6)

167 Thanks to all for the comments on Hank. He truly was The Best Dog Ever.

Posted by: AnthonyB at April 14, 2019 02:01 AM (9Rm2Z)

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