Apollo and Deb

Question: When you have a free moment, I was wondering if you might be able to shed some light on a small behavioral quirk exhibited by our oldest Weim, Deb.  For lack of better explanation, she has a ‘suckling’ obsession.  Almost like a child who sucks her thumb, except Deb focuses on plush items (blankets, pillows, bathrobes, etc).  It’s the strangest thing!  It’s not bothersome in the least..actually, it’s kind of adorable   And she’s not chewing, so it isn’t harmful to her.  But it is strange, so I was wondering if you’ve ever seen this before?  Any thoughts as to why she might do this?  Jeremy and I suspect that maybe she was weened a bit too early, but I also wonder if it isn’t some sort of self-soothing mechanism.  In which case, are there additional steps (aside from the customary snuggles) that we should be taking to comfort her?  

Thoughts from OwyheeStar: At first blush, a person might believe the Weim you have was weaned early. Having a large bank of information garnered over years of experience, we cannot say that was the case. We have firsthand experience with an OwyheeStar Weimaraner that exhibits this behavior, and we know she was not weaned early. In truth, she was nursed longer, because the mother was extremely connected mother. Check out Molly of the Yukon.

We love your terminology citing this as a self-soothing mechanism. That is an apt way to put it, and most likely this started out that way, and soon became a habitual way to comfort herself. 

Timber Travels Home

Thank you so much for all your time and effort you put into your work. It is super appreciated, and now we have the puppy of our dreams. As you can see he made the trip well!

Timber……….

Embraced by my friend

He is so absolutely wonderful, and decided to give us show this morning on how great of a hunter he will be with his little toy squirrel. LOL, needless to say, Mr. squirrel went into the garbage can as he tore it up in about 30 minutes.

He’s a doll, but he’s not too thrilled with sleeping time quite yet, as he can’t quite grasp why nobody wants to play with him at 3:30 AM, Ahh oh well! He’s just so cute, you can’t help but play with him.Oh, did I forget to mention that he is quite the cuddle bug? Oh yes, he loooooves to cuddle! He’s just awesome all around, and I can’t wait to see what he’s like when he gets older.

Thank you so much Shela, you completed our life.

Opal -- Elle X Blue

Happy Saturday Weimlovers!

Cliff and I started to scurry around earlier than usual this morning, because he is traveling to meet people with their new puppy this morning. There are always a lot of last-minute details to which to attend.

The weather is colder again-considerably below freezing. Freezing weather always means we have more work. There are more considerations. Normal cleanup takes longer and requires more effort. On a morning where there is more than usual to do, these cold-weather issues factors into the equation. Not to worry though, because we will get everything done that needs done in a timely manner.

It is always a plus if it warms up to slightly above freezing every day. Wetter, warmer, conditions seem more favorable, but it is not always the case. They also create the perfect conditions for parasites to thrive and multiple quickly. Unfortunately, our world is filled with opportunistic parasites. As much as we would like to eradicate them, one-celled parasites like Coccidia and Giardia can be found everywhere. They are often tracked on the property and into a mud puddle by the sweet little visiting birds. We have had various birds by the hundreds everyday. They think our place is paradise. They love to steal food, especially puppy chow. Then they know that we have year-round outside water sources. In the frozen tundra, the conditions are less than idea. There are always trade-offs!

This Week’s Blog-links…

1. Monday January 23 ~ ( Click Here ) — Lu Reports
2. Tuesday January 24 ~ ( Click Here ) — Congratulations are in Order
3. Wednesday January 25 ~ ( Click Here ) — Miz Coco Chanel
4. Thursday January 26  ~ ( Click Here ) — Sadie Makes a Friend
5. Friday January 27 ~ ( Click Here ) —  Weim Left Behind

Reflections, thoughts, and whatnot…

This week on our blog, we have spanned topics covering a mountain-high achievement, and then delved to the depths of unspeakable sadness and loss. Along the way this week, we have spent some time with three Weims living the dream. We never know how life will unfold. For Anjie, taking on Jasper left her with no regrets, except that the experience didn’t last longer.

We have sent many people to rescue over the years. The experience has been good at times, and at other times not what they hoped. Nonetheless, when you give a Weim a second-chance, it is not so much about you, but it is about the giving. The biggest down-side is the potential for longevity is often lacking in the equation, so you come to the rainbow bridge much more quickly. With a rescue, you seldom know the health history. You rarely know the true lineage.

Many people turn to rescue in search of less-expensive Weimaraner. The initial cost of the Weim may seem high to those who are used to picking up a dog here or there. It may seem ridiculous to the beloved Labrador fans. Although Anjie would not have chosen a different path, she has paid on every level. She would tell you he was worth it, but a person looking for a less-expensive dog will often turn to rescue not counting costs that soon may come their direction. In reality, those drawn to rescue should be the persons that are able to afford the expense, and that want to help the breed. The rescue person, needs to understand all they may encounter and do it for the love of doing something good!

The term backyard-breeders has come into vogue in the last few decades. It is used to describe those hobby-breeders who raise an occasional litter with their Weimaraner pets. This is a sad reality that has led to rescue, shelters, and worse being frequented by cast-off Weims. In our opinion, a casual breeder can offer only so much. Rarely do they have the skills, technical knowledge, or the wherewith all, to do the job correctly. There are exceptions, and few casual breeders take their efforts to the max.

Raising Weims is a bit like having children, anyone can do it, but it takes a father and mother to raise a child (or a dedicated breeder to raise a quality Weimaraner puppy). There is more to it than mating two Weims, whelping a litter, and selling the pups. A responsible breeder spends a lot of time, effort, and money to ensure they are doing what is best for the breed. Even the top-notch breeders, may differ on their thoughts and process, but the end-goal is always the same. Some folks like to think we live in America, and we are free to do anything. There is some truth to that statement. However, at times, pushing our freedom to the limit results in more rules and regulations. The dog industry is out of control. The government wants to regulate and control breeding. Do we really want that to happen? AKC is fighting for the breeder to retain the right to make choices. Thank You AKC!

Happy New Year & Puppy Breath Your Way

~ Shela & Cliff (OwyheeStar Weimaraners)

Remember our Jasper?

I just returned home from putting him down! He had lung cancer! And was struggling to breathe!

Gosh it was horrible. I just am dying inside! 

Breeder’s Note: We met Anjie’s family not so long ago, when they acquired their first Weimaraner–Denim. Since then Anjie learned at lot, and has become total smitten with the breed. Thinking she would do something good for all concerned, she rescued Jasper. He was ten years old. No one expected he would impact their lives so dramatically, or leave them so soon.

Denim loves her Jasper

 I don’t think denim will enjoy being alone once she realizes he is not coming back! He was so good for her Helped her to get over her anxieties and trust I would return just to name a few.

With crushed heart but no regrets we have been forced to say goodbye to our dear friend and special adopted family member Jasper! We are trying to move on with life, and as you know we must, but it is not easy to say the least.

The doggy funeral place called me today and had a really interesting piece of advice It was to bring denim in to let her see jasper so she knows where and what he is now smell him and look at him and she would know May not change her grieving at home but she would for sure know that he has passed on!

As the day goes on she is mopier and mopier. She will not take her eyes off the door. Every once Ina while a small whimper comes out with her usual sigh after laying down. You know that ahhh I’m comfy now sigh! And another interesting thing she is doing…..

She brings us a shoe every time we walk into the house! It does not matter whose shoe. There is not Certain one she brings every time. What ever shoe boot she can find first. Well today she has brought me 7 shoes and put them In my bed since I’m letting her up here for a few! So that is Interesting to me.

No one in this family can ever find the mate to their shoes. She never eats them or chews them they are just her presents she greets us with upon every single entry. They get scattered all over the house. And sometimes we have to look out my window upstairs to view the backyard to locate the missing shoe!

A Few Thoughts — The feeling of being abandoned or the loss of Jasper is real to Denim. The shoes may be a way of keeping track of each family member. Their fresh scent is strong in the footwear. She may well worry that she might lose another. No doubt she is watching to see whether Jasper will come through the door. They had a connection that was special.

Her are few more thoughts on this topic. As you are all grieving and reeling over the loss Denim is going to feel your loss and pain. Her suffering will not only be her own, but include what she takes on from her beloved family. Crisis, change, or upheaval is never easy for the Weimaraner. They like to be in control. They like to know their world is the same. Being left behind is hard. No one can replace Jasper! To think it is possible is to be ignorant of the uniqueness of living creatures. Regardless, Denim will most likely do better with another Weim companion. It may well be a bit rocky early-on, but eventually with patience and working through things it will be for the best. 

In closing, I believe that during loss and grieving each person must find their own way. The Weimaraner is no exception. Others can be there for you, console you, and offer support, but some journeys must be walked hand-in-hand with the creator. Whether you believe there is a God or not, you have to find a way to connect with more than ashes-to-ashes or dust-to-dust. Most of us believe we will see our loved ones (fur and human) on the other side. It doesn’t make the process easier, but it does help us get on with life. Maybe the getting-on-with life happens sooner than later for some. In Denim’s situation, it seems sooner might help more than hurt. For other people who have lost their beloved Weimaraner, they require varying amounts of time to grieve and honor the departed. There is no one way to handle this situation. There are no adequate words to handle the loss of a beloved Weimaraner. It is a part of our life that is harder than others. We hope that in your grief, you can find a new glimmer of hope. Each living creature touches our life in ways we didn’t expect. We believe we are better for the experience. 

Many talk about their beloved pets traveling over the rainbow bridge. Regardless of the road or path, may you one day meet again. In the meantime, cherish the memories, knowing they are unique and special. We believe it is a one-time thing. You can have another unique and special journey, but never the same journey. Jasper lives on in your hearts, words, and memories. What a fortunate boy he was to be loved by you, and in turn to know and love your family!

I wanted to write to tell you about Sadie’s new friend.  Since we left home at the first of October, we have been in six different RV Parks in four states.  I can say we have been exposed to well over a 1000 dogs.  Most small barkers.  But not one Weim. 

Yesterday in the Park we are currently parked in we had a nice surprise.  One of the people in here went by in their SUV with a familiar head poking out of the side window.  It was a weim!!!  We found the space where the people are staying in here and made contact.  They are from Oregon and have a male Weim that is six.  He is a rescue weim.  We made arrangements to let Bo and Sadie meet at the dog park to play.  The next night we met up and release the two together.  They went crazy running and playing with each other like they had finally found a friend.  Funny how beng the same kinds of dogs they finally acted like they had found a friend.  They played for a long time before we both left to go to our RV’s.  The other weim, Bo, was a very slight and small male.  It was obvious he had had a rough life before they got him at 18 months old.  His eyes are almost bug eyed and it appears he was malnourished as a pup.  Sadie dwarf the little guy.  The people couldn’t rave enough about how pretty Sadie was.  She is a beauty.  Sadie has learned to socialize quite well.  

CoCo is just about 100% potty and bell trained.  Her personality is special and unique. 

She now loves to counter surf to try to get anything in sight (including our coffee). 

We have her on a grain free diet, as well as the vitamins you recommended. 

Mr. Chivas has been a true gentleman and friend to CoCo.  He is getting a bit irritated though because all she wants to do is play, take his spot on the bed AND bite his butt. 

CoCo plays and sleeps a lot with our Siamese cat, Lady.  CoCo loves to ride in the car but, as you know Weimie’s, they get too excited and nervous, so she gets carsick .

Coco and Chivas on the deck

I don’t know what more to say other than THANK YOU for blessing us with this most beautiful gift!

Katelynn beloved pet sitter enjoys a quiet moment!

As you remember, we already had Chivas, the silver gray Weim in the photos. We hope you enjoy the photos of our two beloved Weims– Chivas and Coco.  One of the pics shows how they both are with our house/animal day sitter, Katelynn.  CoCo is now over 30 lbs; her coat is velvet and super shiny.  She has lost a lot of her baby teethies already.  She is a hot pistol and we love every inch of her.  She has brought so much joy to me and Charles and the rest of the animals.

Stay Fabulous ~

 Rebecca 

While we were in the midst of all-things-puppy, Doni was in the midst of an International Show Competition. The International Show venue is a venue where the blue Weimaraner can earn a show title. As you know, they are not allowed to compete in the AKC or WCA Show Ring.

One of these three (Feebie) won Best of Breed, but all are International Show Champions! We should also take note that all three Weimaraners are tied to OwyheeStar. Two of three are from OwyheeStar-matings. We could not be prouder. The two females are both directly related to our UK exported Stud. This is important news for the blue Weimaraner. There is a lot of talk about proving the blues, but at the same time a lot of opposition to letting it happen. This is a step in the right direction.

Speaking of the Cuteness Factor!

Back at the Nielsen Farm, we have our usual going on. We purchased a photography-umbrella and took a quick photo yesterday to try the effect. We were pleased with the outcome! And no, we didn’t pose this pup–she crossed her feet all on her own! One of these two silver females is destined for the Show Ring if all things go as planned. Maybe she is making a bid for her debut. While we have never titled a show dog, we may have the opportunity in the near future. If we move ahead, and it becomes a reality, we will be sharing that information with you.

Lu and Shea -- Best of Friends

Lu here, from Central Oregon (and sometimes the Coast) – last time I reported in I was only a few months old. I finally made it to one year old, and WOW have I learned a lot! I spent my first few months at our family’s “cabin” in Florence. I joined the family as #2 dog, because they already had a 2-year old Golden Retriever girl “Shea”, but I quickly established my dominance and rightful place (according to me, of course) as Alpha Dog and Shea became my favorite chew toy. Still is – but I have to admit I’ve been convinced to be a bit more gentle with her.

Hey Look at me! This is my fave thing to do with this toy!

Not so gentle with my toys, however, and a few pieces of the rug, house, and deck that I could find to keep me busy. The little stopper for the back door that goes “BOING” was a special favorite. Before I knew it, teeth were falling all over the place and all I wanted to do was gnaw, so I was introduced to heavy-duty kongs and such. I love to tease my sisters with them to get her going, and I adore stretching my neck out over my back and holding that position, as you can see from the picture. I took to retrieving right away and loved going on walks in the dunes.

Lu's first swim

Wasn’t so thrilled with water, but right around the 4th of July I was surprised into swimming when my ball was thrown into the lake. After floundering around (and causing much laughter, to my dismay), I became champion swimmer too, and with head held high (don’t want to miss anything) I smoothly zoom through the water. But rain? well, not my best weather.

When we came back to Sisters where we live most of the time, the training continued. When I wasn’t running and sailing over sagebrush, I was allowed to sleep in the sun on the back deck – but, needing a job, I found that picking up rocks got me plenty of attention. I don’t eat them, of course, but carry them around in my mouth and bring them back to Dad proudly.

I love lounging with Shea, and look I am so calm and quiet.

While they are trying to discourage me from doing this, I just can’t resist, because there are SO MANY little rocks in Central Oregon – I honestly think I have a job for life!

So our routine is, after breakfast there is a short rest time, then we get to run and retrieve every morning for about 90 minutes (we meet lots of dog friends in the woods and meadows), then I get to nap and laze around until about 3:30 or 4, when we get to run again for about 30 to 45 minutes. After that comes dinner and snuggle time on the couch. If my sis and I are really good, we get to gnaw on some antler bones.

My parents are very happy with me, as they should be, because I am starting to settle down A LITTLE, except right before running time. They keep looking for a watch on my paw, because I know EXACTLY when those times are, and Shea and I cavort around, running circles and jumping over things, until we finally get to go. I don’t know why humans have to wear so many clothes just because it’s 25 degrees out, it just takes them WAY too long to get ready! When it’s that cold, they even put this “jacket” thing on me with a fleece collar (OK, it’s stylish and keeps me warm, but still….). But I do love the snow, and the sun, and the wind, and – well, let’s just say I love my life!

I did have one shock when I was 8 months old….we visited our vet in Redmond and he helped me take a nap, and when I woke up I was kinda drowsy. Mom said that I had a spaying operation – but not just ANY operation, it was done laproscopically, which meant that I didn’t have stitches or even feel sore – after 3 days and a little bandaid I was ready to go, full steam again. Mom says that’s amazing!

So my lord and master (he thinks) is Dad and I have to know where he is at all times. He takes me on rides, let’s me cuddle on the bed at night before I go into my crate, and generally watches after him (and vice versa). But I have to say Mom is pretty nice, too – she feeds me and gives me good loves. My BFF tho’, is my sister, as you’ll see from the attached pictures.

Lu  - True x Benton 2011

Or–Jacob and Moxie; best of friends!