Putting A Dog To SleepWritten by Jeff Cuckson
I was talking to a friend of mine today and I asked him how his kids (dogs) were. He lives on his own and standing joke is - "does he want to do a swap with his dogs and my kids?"He informed me very sadly that he had to get older dog put to sleep. I knew dog was quite old, but I knew from his expression and my own experience that it had been a hard decision. He had stayed with dog, stroking and talking to him as vet administered injection. I was suprised at my reaction, because it immediately brought back memories of my last dog being put to sleep. It surprised me that it still hurt after all this time. I have found that non-dog owners think you are a bit barmy for reacting with a lot of emotion to a dog's death. They tend to forget that Westie ( or any other animal) was part of your family. If dogs could talk what stories they could tell. I remind you of a beautiful prayer called "A Dog's Prayer". It is by Beth Norman Harris. I hope she dosen't mind but I have renamed it "A Westie Dog's Prayer" "Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all world is more grateful for kindness than loving heart of me. Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick yourhand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me things you would have me do. Speak to me often, for your voice is world's sweetest music, as you must know by fierce wagging of my tail when your footsteps falls upon my waiting ear.
| | Scottish Terrier Dogs - Important FactsWritten by Jeff Cuckson
Scottish Terriers are short-legged dogs, at a height of ten to eleven inches, comparatively heavy-boned, yet deceivingly trim. They are agile and sporty pets. Moreover, their intelligence, playfulness and loyalty make them popular pets.Historically, they were first standard for their breed, back in 1880. So even today, when someone says Terrier, what comes to mind is Scottish Terrier. This breed originated in Scotland and is ubiquitously recognized as an icon of Scottish Culture. Still, even if they have long history, it was only in 1800s, that their history began to be recorded. Many Scottish Terrier owners insist that all other terriers share a common ancestor in Scottish Terrier dog. They were originally bred to hunt foxes and badgers. Although for many Americans, their first sight of a Scottish Terrier was through President Roosevelt’s pet, Fala, this breed had been in country since late 18th century. In fact, first registered Scottie America was ''Dake'' born Sept. 15, 1884. Physically average Scottish Terrier weighs 19-23 pounds in adulthood and lives a life span of 12-15 years. They come in most any shades and colors such as black, wheaten, or brown. They don’t shed a lot of hair. Ideally, you should comb and evenly trim his coat regularly to keep coat neat and shiny. How does one take good care of a Scottish Terrier dog? Not to worry, they may be sporty; yet don’t require a lot of exercise. You can keep your Scottish Terrier dog indoors, provided you ensure it gets sufficient walking exercises during day. If you have a small yard, and it is well secured, then let your dog loose. He’ll be sure to get his optimum requirement by playing in yard. As pets, they are better pets for older and more mature children.
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