Labrador Addiction

Scared, yet TOTALLY GRATEFUL

2009-10-02T12:45:00.000-07:00

Today my Bentley 'bug' is at ELIZABETH STREET PET HOSPITAL in Okotoks having his neuter done. It wasn't a routine surgery and a few complications were involved but I thank my lucky stars that Marco was the vet who performed the surgery. Marco specializes in canine, feline and equine reproduction. Marco said he put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into my sweet boy today. I am scared to think what would have happened had Marco not been the one behind the 'knife' and 'laser'. I am relieved that it is over and that my boy is resting. With antibiotics, pain meds, rest and lotsa of lovin' ~ things should be back to normal after his staples are removed in two weeks.

Thank you to all our friends ~ near and far who sent well wishes, thoughts and prayers for Bentley today. Thanks to Marco, for taking such good care of our Bentley. Finally, a VERY special thanks to Ed and Margie Miller of Torngat Labradors for being the best "Grammie and Grandpy" around. We love you guys!!

p.s. stay tuned for my an update on my sweet boy.

Birthday Boy

2008-11-24T22:19:00.000-08:00

Bentley turned one on the 19th of November. I put together a few of my fav shots from the last year.
He has been an absolute joy to have around. He is the 'ultimate' puppy - he is obedient, never chewed furniture, nipped or chased after the kids. I know that doesn't happen very often and I've had to do very little training as he catches on very quickly.
He is a gentle 'soul' that is a little unsure of himself at times, but with praise and encouragement he always comes out 'shining' like the star I know he is.

I love you Bentley!!!! Happy Birthday my Sweet Boy!!

2008-10-30T12:37:00.000-07:00

It is a good thing I love this fella! I went out onto the deck the other day and noticed the brand new leather bbq cover was wet. It hadn't rained and I thought to myself... the kids must have been playing around with the dogs water jug. Silly me, I went outside last night after following the dogs out and watched SIR BENTLEY lift his leg and pee on it! What the heck is he thinking? I guess anything in the yard is fair game for 'marking' on ...lol!! BOYS!!!!!

On a good note, he has been an 'angel' for a puppy. So if this is the worst he ever does... well, I guess I should count my blessings. LOL!!

2008-10-18T17:27:00.000-07:00

Amazing the fun, excitement and hyperness that occurs when you throw a new toy in with two Labs. lol!

Rowan is taking a breather with 'the new toy' while her little brother is off at the water bowl quenching his thirst..lol!

Rowan says, "I love my boy!".

I sure don't know where the time has gone. Bentley will be 11 months tomorrow. Shocking!!

I love him SO!

2008-09-30T11:59:00.001-07:00

The 'PUPPERS'

2008-09-25T18:06:00.001-07:00

The 'puppers' live in thier birth province now. Our recent move to Wetaskiwin, has brought Rowan back to the same city she was born in July 2006. Bentley is only a few hours away from Calgary.

I took these pictures last night while the dogs were having some R and R after a wild romping play session.

Thanks to Brenda - TBOG for helping me out with the 'pet eye'.

My BOY!!!

2008-07-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

I was playing around today with my camera on MANUAL setting..lol! I have to take some photographs for my photography course tonight. With a little help from my friends "photoshop" these photos didn't turn out too bad.

Isn't my boy - just the sweetest chocolate chunk?

2 yrs vs 8 months

2008-07-19T13:12:00.000-07:00

Bentley @ 8 months.

Rowan @ 2 years

Two Years

2008-07-19T06:45:00.001-07:00

.....Has it been that long already? How time has a way of passing you by like you are standing still. I'd always wanted a purebred black Labrador Retriever. I was looking for that 'certain' look. An English Style Labrador. I came across a site in Alberta and was hooked. A few emails put us on a waiting list for that 'girl' we'd hoped to call our own. On July 19th - our anxiously awaited puppy was born. In September, we made the trek to Edmonton to pick her up and although she has her days even still, (she is strong willed) she is the most beautiful girl inside and out. People say that dogs don't have personalities, but they are wrong. Rowan is my cuttlebug, she makes me laugh with the things she does and frustrates me sometimes too. She is my precious girl and I love her.
Happy 2nd Birthday Ro Girl!!
(6 week - picture by Jolene of Eagertrieve)

Always Together

2008-06-27T07:50:00.000-07:00

Like two peas in a pod. A relaxing shot taken this morning after a rough play session.

Finally

2008-06-27T06:16:00.000-07:00

I didn't think it would ever happen....... but FINALLY this week he did it!!

You are sitting there asking yourself what is she talking about aren't you? lol!!

Bentley has never been one for wanting to be on the furniture and if I picked him up and set him beside me to snuggle he'd stay there until I lifted him down. I dunno maybe he has a fear of heights, but he is getting a tad heavy to be lifting. No matter how high pitched my voice got trying to be excited for him to jump down or doggie treats awaiting on the floor he wouldn't budge. He'd sit there for an hour and then finally, I'd lift him down. Jumping up on his own for about a month now, but getting down... he was wanting no part of. Until the other day it must have just clicked for him... cause he finally DID IT all on his own.

A tad behind his sister who did it at 5 months, but we all know that boys are late bloomers anyhow...LOL!!

7 months

2008-06-21T20:42:00.000-07:00

Growing Up.

2008-06-04T17:53:00.000-07:00

Sibling Love

2008-06-03T19:54:00.000-07:00

These two are like peas in a pod. They love one another so much. They have developed a strong bond in the 4.5 months Bentley has been with us. It is wonderful to see.

A Weekend Away

2008-05-25T22:03:00.000-07:00

Rowan and Bentley had a great time in Fort St. John this weekend. They made a new 'friend' in Sarah - an Akita X. They even got to hang out at the drag races and caught a few 'rays'.

Bentley had his first 'sleep over' and did fantastic. Now, if we could only get him to get in and out of the car himself and to climb stairs. He is getting a tad heavy to be lifting...lol!!

"SPUD"

2008-04-24T16:27:00.000-07:00

My new nickname for Bentley is 'SPUD'. Don't ask me where it came from I just started calling him that out of the blue. Here are a couple of shots from today. He enjoys 'playing' BOSS as you can see with his sister! BOYS!! lol!

Lab Love - 21 weeks & 21 months

2008-04-14T11:15:00.000-07:00

My Ro Girl

2008-04-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I love this girl. She has a mind of her own somedays but she is just the sweetest girl ever. I can't believe she is 21 months old already. It just seems like yesterday that we brought her home.

19 weeks of Brown Sugar

2008-04-02T20:07:00.000-07:00

Don't Worry "B" Happy

2008-03-30T13:05:00.000-07:00

Bentley @ 11 weeks.

Journalling reads:

You have me wrapped around your little paw already Bentley.

Today Out Lovin' My Labbies

2008-03-27T16:36:00.000-07:00

18 weeks

2008-03-26T18:55:00.000-07:00

Bentley @ 16 weeks

2008-03-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

"B" @ 15 weeks

2008-03-08T17:44:00.001-08:00

I am SO, SO proud

2008-03-08T16:12:00.000-08:00

Bentley went for his VERY first walk today!!

He was on a flat collar and a retractable leash. He was very apprehensive about leaving the fenced yard at first but with a little tug and coaxing he did. Now, keep in mind he has never been on a leash before except just on the way home from Calgary to go pee on the side of the road... but other than that.... nothing. He does not wear a collar either.

So, off we go for our walk on the nature trail behind the house. He is toddling along behind me and is just the cutest thing. The neighbours dog comes running out of nowhere up to him. He turns and begins to do the usual sniffing. She runs off and he goes to follow her... chasing her. TILL he gets to the end of the lead...and is SHOCKED! HE turns to look at me, and I say, "Bentley, come" as I hit the side of my leg.... he STAYED BESIDE MY LEG almost the entire walk. He did do a little sniffing and exploring but for about 90% of it, he was right beside me.

Now, I am not trying to brag..... but so far he has been an EXCELLENT puppy.... listens, doesn't bite, housetrained, comes when called, caught onto fetch instantly and now walking on the trail so obediently. I am just so freakin' proud right now.

He is ONE smart cookie!

I couldn't Ask for Anything More

2008-03-08T11:51:00.000-08:00

Rowan and Bentley are not only half siblings but they are best friends. The bond of love that the two of them share is so great to watch. Rowan has so much patience for Bentley and he just adores and looks up to his big Sister. They truly are the perfect match.

My Lil' Baby Einstein

2008-03-06T20:37:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Bentley and I headed out to the backyard alone to play. With tennis ball in hand, I thought 'what the heck, let's see what he can do'. I got his attention, and as I threw the ball I said, "Bentley, fetch". I was so amazed that my lil' boy knew what to do. He ran and grabbed the ball and trotted back to me with it in his mouth. Let me tell you, that was such a proud mommy moment! I wanted to make sure it wasn't a fluke and repeated the same thing several more times. I was thrilled when he retrieved time after time. AND brought the ball RIGHT to me. So, now we will be working on the art of 'drop it' now.

He is such a precious boy and amazes me more and more with each passing day!

I 'heart' my Labs

2008-02-26T17:03:00.000-08:00

Chunk o' Chocolat!

2008-02-23T17:49:00.001-08:00

My Lil' Chunk o' CHOCOLAT weighed in at 30.58 pounds yesterday! He is going to be a big boy! Bentley doesn't like going to the vet one bit. He was sure glad to get home again. Thankfully, he got his last vaccine and rabies shot so he is good to go for another year. Not even bribbing with 'liver treats' from the girls would entice him. Nope, he would only take from Mommy. I guess, 'don't talk to strangers' works for dogs too! ROTFLBMO!!

In love with my Labbies

2008-02-19T19:54:00.000-08:00

Sir Bentley

2008-02-17T06:15:00.000-08:00

So, what did "we" do/learn this week?

1. to slide Rowan's dishes off her plastic placemat and begin eating it.

2. to go outside in the morning, make a fast run for it, go pee and then come back and sit outside the door and 'bark/yelp'.... it gets me in faster!

3. to bark from my crate between 6-6:30 to let everyone know I am here and hungry! LOL AND, Mom comes running!

4. to drool when I am eating. Did you know, I can eat my 2.5 cups of food faster than Rowan can eat her 2 cups? Mom says, I am a lil' piggy!

5. I have begun to tagteam with Rowan and chase after the cat in the house.

kids eh......LOL!

Snow babies!

2008-02-11T13:08:00.000-08:00

Growing fast

2008-02-11T10:10:00.000-08:00

I had Bentley to the vet this morning to be weighed so he could get the correct amount of 'deworming meds'. Our lil' boy is weighing in at 11.9 kg or 26.18 pounds. Can you believe it!!

I've increased his Orijen to 2.5 cups a day. He loves his food and eats almost as fast as Rowan does now. LOL! A big change from the 'grazer' he once was.

~ 12 Weeks ~

2008-02-10T14:48:00.000-08:00

Every Boy Deserves a dog!

2008-02-09T10:20:00.001-08:00

Some cuteness from Today

2008-02-06T12:17:00.001-08:00

I tell you that I sure lucked out with this gorgeous boy. He is such a gentle soul. He listens 'pretty good'..lol, snuggles and sleeps through the night. I wouldn't change a thing!

Touched by Kindness

2008-02-04T21:31:00.000-08:00

Only a dog lover could give or appreicate a gift like this. Thanks so much to our American friend Sue.. aka Lablover for being so kind and sending this to celebrate our new arrival ~ Bentley!I was so touched when I opened the envie today. It was so thoughtful of you! Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are a dear friend.

Chocolate Crazy

2008-01-29T16:36:00.001-08:00

Hear me Roar! LOL

Tickle, tickle Josh!

I got an itch. Can you scratch it?

Scratch and sniff! LOL

Hey Girls!!

Only eyes for you!

My baby is growing up!

~ Today~ A cold winter day with my labbies!

2008-01-28T17:22:00.000-08:00

"Kids"..lol! Rowan has the patience of a saint. She has been so good with Bentley.

My Ro Girl ~ I love her so!

Wasssup?!

Playtime!

A scrapbook page already! LOL

Betcha can't say, "NO".. LOL!

Don't worry, Be Happy!!

My Daddy Wubs Me!

2008-01-26T18:10:00.000-08:00

It is -17 but with the windchill it is -28. It is supposed to go down to -46 with the windchill tonight. Poor Bentley was outside taking a pee and wasn't out for five minutes but was at the door yelping. The poor baby was FREEZING. Here is with Glenn getting snuggles and warming up. I'll have to carry him outside and rush to get him back in tomorrow. Isn't he just the cutest?

On another note Bentley went to the vet yesterday for his second needle of the puppy series. He weighed in at 18.7 pounds! I am so happy he is eating regularly now.

My Baby Boy

2008-01-24T09:49:00.000-08:00

The white stringy stuff on Bentley's ear is some 'drool' from his sister after a play session. LOL!

~ Today ~

2008-01-23T18:02:00.001-08:00

1st Day Home

2008-01-21T18:36:00.000-08:00

9 weeks and 1 day.

Good Times

2008-01-21T15:20:00.001-08:00

We landed in Calgary on Friday January 18th! I must say that we not only picked up our precious baby Bentley but we got to hang out with some amazing friends too! Well, we will be the owners of a "dog car" sometime this year! LOL!! WARNING: Bentley will be coming to Calgary to visit Grammie and Grampie! :)

7 weeks old today ~ Jan 6th

2008-01-06T18:33:00.000-08:00

These photos are courtesy of Torngat Labradors - Ed and Margie Miller. They are absolutely gorgeous and so is the subject ~ our Bentley!

My Girl Today

2008-01-06T10:12:00.000-08:00

Utter Sweetness

2008-01-01T18:36:00.000-08:00

The theme of Tia's litter is Bays in Nfld. I had a little difficulty with this one as Margie can attest to but I finally hit the nail on the head.

I am proud to introduce - TORNGATS ROCKY RED BAY SPECIAL

Here are a few photos from the weekend photo shoot - courtesy of Ed and Margie Miller - Torngat Labradors. Thank you for our beautiful boy. He is absolutely gorgeous!

Happy New Year

2007-12-30T21:15:00.000-08:00

I received this picture today in an email from Margie & Ed. It is the most adorable picture. The waiting is now over ~ WINE collar boy is my BENTLEY! He is the 'angel' that is behaving and is sleeping soundly.. LOL!

Thanks Margie and Ed for producing and raising such a beautiful litter of pups!

5 weeks and three days - December 27th

2007-12-27T08:34:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! This is me today at 5 weeks and three days! My Mom thinks I am pretty dang cute. I must admit, I think I am too! Only 22 more sleeps until my family comes to get me.

He is simply gorgeous! Thanks for the photo, Margie! :)

Absolutely the best kinda chocolate!

2007-12-27T07:04:00.000-08:00

Here is our Bentley @ 28 days of age taken on December 16th. Isn't he just precious!

Photos courtesy of Ed and Margie Miller (Torngat)

Dream Come True

2007-12-23T14:03:00.001-08:00

As a little girl I became infatuated with dogs. I shouldn't say all dogs but one breed in particular. I grew up in a family that always had dogs but my Mom wouldn't allow them inside. This always 'tore' at me. Afterall, I always thought 'pets' were a part of the family? I vowed to myself that sometime in my adult life I would have a purebred Labrador Retriever. In my mind, they are the ultimate dog, the ONLY dog. Now, if you are reading this and disagree that is fine but remember this is my blog, with my opinions, thoughts and ideas.

My dream came true when I came across some Labrador Retriever breeders in Alberta. I fell in 'love' with an upcoming breeding at Eagertrieve. I think that Sudden Impact "Will" is the most gorgeous boy I've seen and fell in love instantly. I wanted 'one' of his puppies. My dream came true on July 20,2006 when 8 puppies were born. I was on the waiting list and so desperately wanted a 'black' girl! There were 4 black girls born that day but one needed to be 'put down' due to having a cleft pallet. I anxiously awaited until the litter was six weeks old to find out if yellow, orange or pink collar girl was mine. Finally, it was announced that pink collar girl, was indeed my "ROWAN". The trip to Edmonton was excruciatingly painful due to the anticipation of seeing my baby girl for the first time. I must admit though, it was love at first sight.

Rowan was a little trooper travelling and snuggled in with me during the 6 hour drive back to Dawson Creek. She had everyone wrapped around her paw in no time and almost immediately became the 'PRINCESS'.

Rowan is now 17 months old and has come so far since her first days home. She is a beautiful girl and we love her so very much.

The next new aspect of our life began on November 19, 2007 as Tia delivered 7 healthy puppies. We had hoped for a chocolate girl but nature hadn't co-operated with us. For a VERY brief time I was saddened that I wouldn't get my second girl, but it quickly faded knowing there would be a chocolate boy for us. Tia is a beautiful girl and was bred with my ultimate boy, "Will". How could you not get a glorious puppy from this litter? I am so happy that we chose to go with Torngat this time around. Margie and Ed are absolutely amazing. They are wonderful people.

So here we are at 5 weeks of age anxiously awaiting to see if BENTLEY will be wine collar boy or blue collar boy. January 18th isn't coming fast enough. I can hardly wait to make the 9 hour trip to Calgary to see my gorgeous chocolate boy.

My Black Beauty

2007-12-23T14:00:00.000-08:00