Wiggle The Dog

Wiggle - Day 1,334

2012-02-13T18:00:00.000Z

When Wiggle recently Tweeted to say that he was lounging around, his girlfriend, LucytheLab said that if he was lounging, then he should have popcorn, as apparently it goes well with relaxing at home.

Last night, I made some popcorn and shared it with Wiggle and Sofy. Sofy was first to take an interest:
Then Wiggle thought he should pay attention too:

The 'team':

To start, Wiggle was taking the popcorn from my fingers:

Then we thought that catching the popcorn would be much more fun!

Sofy, just having caught some corn:

Wiggle goes for the 'head up, snap down' catch:

I have never seen such concentration on Sofy's face!

Wiggle watching the flying corn:

Comedy face:

To furry face, watching the bowl of popcorn:

Wiggle in corn-catching action:

And the photo that made me laugh the most!

Wiggle - Day 1,332

2012-02-11T13:22:00.008Z

Today we met up at the Downs for a walk with Wellington. As I often see Allan and Nathan, we were hoping that all 3 dogs would get on well and enjoy a walk together. There was still quite a lot of snow around and Sofy and Wiggle were on their best behaviour, waiting to meet their new pal:

Wiggle was more interested in running with his tennis ball:

While Wellington was more interested in finding sticks!

Wellington and his first stick:

Wiggle and Sofy, chasing after their ball:

Running in the sun, on the snow:

Allan and Nathan's friend Mark, throwing the ball for Wiggle:

Ready to run:

Pouncing!

Wellington, still with his stick:

Snowy-faced Sofy:

All 3 dogs, with Nathan and Allan:

Group photo done, back to running:

Wellington. And his stick. Just for a change!

Beautiful, sunny day. Very cold though!

Wellington decided he would like to follow Wiggle:

While Wiggle was heading off down the slope:

Boys together, Wellington and Wiggle:

Where Wiggle went, Wellington wasn't far behind:

Even though Sofy was trying her luck to get treats, Wellington was more interested in what Wiggle was doing:

Following each other....

Sofy, starting to get tired:

Wiggle, still being followed:

Wellington had found a new stick. He planned to take it home with him:

Have stick, will follow Wiggle:

Wiggle knew which way to go, back to the car.

Still with his ball:

We all had a really lovely walk, all the dogs got on well and since geting home, Wiggle and Sofy have been fast asleep!

Wiggle - Day 1,331

2012-02-10T19:00:00.000Z

Last night it started snowig and when we woke up early this morning, it had settled and was still falling!

Excited to have some nice snow, we were out before it was light, heading for the field:

Sofy, not necessarily sharing my excitement:

Wiggle was ahead, keen to go and play:

Wiggle's paw prints show some kind of 'step-slide, step-slide' movement!

Sofy was probably regretting sitting down....

Watching Wiggle:

After some running, boinging and bounding around, Wiggle stopped to sniff out the smells:

Black is a good colour in the snow!

Wiggle - Day 1,330

2012-02-09T19:12:00.000Z

Yesterday evening I went to visit Wellington in his new home, just to see how he was settling in with Allan and Nathan. Seems that they were all happy with each other as they gave me this card:

Wellington, showing off his impressive ears, sitting attentively, waiting for a cookie:

And in his bed, where he can view everything going on in the kitchen, should his assistance be needed!
We're hoping to arrange a play date for the weekend for Wiggle and Sofy to meet Welly, so as they have smelt each other via me, so hopefully they will all get along well

Wiggle - Day 1,328

2012-02-07T20:00:00.000Z

Wiggle likes this cold weather. Probably because when its cold at night, I let him slowly take over more space on my bed......

Wiggle is *meant* to stay on his blankie. On his side of the bed. Clearly, there must have been a 'blankie malfunction' last night:

Wiggle - Day 1,326

2012-02-05T16:56:00.003Z

Yesterday afternoon we had snow, which started after lunchtime and kept going until the evening. It didn't take long before there was enough for Wiggle and Sofy to leave pawprints in the snow:
With some help, Wiggle left a message for his love:

But before long, Wiggle's message had been covered!

Later in the evening, Wiggle went out to check and the snow was still coming down:

Later in the night, the snow was replaced by rain so this morning, the snow had turned to mush...

Wiggle - Day 1,325

2012-02-04T18:08:00.005Z

We had another very cold night but then a beautiful, frosty, sunny morning. Just as we were leaving to go to the field, a hot air balloon flew over:

In the field, the ground was hard and frosty, but Wiggle and Sofy were only interested in watching the ball in my hand:

Sofy, with the ball:

The hot air balloon in the background:

Side by side, chasing the ball:

Wiggle follows Sofy:

Sitting in the sunshine:

Both pouncing for the ball:

Wiggle let Sofy get the ball - or maybe she just pushed him out the way again!

After we'd come home, Wiggle and Sofy settled down to rest as I had to be somewhere else. I went with our friend Allan to Bath Cats & Dogs Home to visit this chap:

Allan and Nathan decided that they would like to adopt a rescue dog and last week went to the home. I went back with them on Sunday as they wanted to walk a dog or two, and knowing that I'd had my fair share of rescue dogs, asked my advice.

We headed straight to kennel block B and the first dog I noticed was Wellington who had been one of the dogs the rehoming team had suggested. We thought he was a Bloodhound Cross but it actually turns out that he's a Bavarian Bloodhound, so a shorter, stockier variety.

Wellington is 7 years old, very friendly and as Allan and Nathan passed their homecheck this week, in a few days time he'll be coming home to live with them. Hopefully it won't be long before Wiggle and Sofy get to meet Wellington, but first we will let him settle with his new family:

Wiggle - Day 1,324

2012-02-03T22:28:00.002Z

Last night it was very cold here - down to minus 10 degC. Wiggle and Sofy were all snuggly, keeping each other warm:

Wiggle - Day 1,323

2012-02-02T20:34:00.000Z

This evening I took Sofy to the vet to get her weighed as since starting her diet last, last month, she's been having her green beans and vegetables with her kibble.

Sofy was very excited to be going out without Wiggle and didn't mind that she was going to the vets, bounding in and jumping up to say hello to the receptionist. We're pleased to say that Sofy has lost 1.5kg's so far, which is great progress.

Tonight I was being lazy and heated a cauliflower cheese readymeal for my supper, so as Sofy has been so good, I let her clean the dish, which she took to bed with her:

Probably enjoying the cheesey sauce after a month of kibble and vegetables!

Wiggle didn't miss out, he ate the caulifower cheese that I didn't finish....

Wiggle - Day 1,322

2012-02-01T20:20:00.003Z

When I have had a busy day at work, it's nice to know that Wiggle and Sofy leave somewhere for me to sit and relax - they only take up two third's of the sofa!

Wiggle - Day 1,320

2012-01-30T20:54:00.002Z

Wiggle and Sofy both love their food. Their love their food lots. They eat their dinner from bowls like this:

Sofy loves her food so much, she eats so fast its almost like she inhales it! This morning I timed her, eating her breakfast in her stainless steel bowl. The time: 24 seconds!

It can't be good to eat so fast, so I'd been looking out for a moulded plastic bowl that might slow Sofy down. At the weekend, I found this:

When Sofy had her dinner this evening, again I timed her. The time: 2 minutes & 38 seconds!

She might actually be able to taste her food now.....

Wiggle - Day 1,319

2012-01-29T17:41:00.000Z

This afternoon, I took Wiggle and Sofy to the river for some splashing around. As soon as they neared the water, they both we ready and waiting for the ball:
BIG splashes!

Wiggle got the ball:

And ran off with it!

Whhheeeeeeeee!

Sofy was looking very alert:

Wiggle was also waiting, watching the ball:

Sofy made a head-first dive into the water:

Her diving did get her the ball though:

By now, Wiggle was 'Wet Wiggle':

And 'Soggy Sofy':

Two little faces, peeking out over the riverbank:

Home again, cozy in their fleece jumpers to dry off:

Wiggle - Day 1,318

2012-01-28T14:48:00.000Z

When Wiggle and Sofy received their treats to sample from Antos, after they had each chosen one and eaten that, I'd put the others in the kitchen. The intention was to give them each another treat in a day or two. This is what was left:
This morning, after their walk and breakfast, I left Wiggle and Sofy to go and do some shopping. When I came home, I noticed something on one of the beds:

Further investigation revealed that of the 4 treats not in bags, there were only 2 left on the kitchen counter:

I asked Wiggle and Sofy, but both of them were keeping quiet:

In the other dog bed, I found one of the Antler treats:

So, as they clearly liked them, I gave Sofy one:

While Wiggle went back to chewing the other:

After Sofy got bored of chewing, Wiggle took her antler to bed with him!

Wiggle - Day 1,316

2012-01-26T20:03:00.004Z

When we spotted a request to test some dog treats on Twitter, Wiggle and Sofy were more than happy to offer their services, so today we received a parcel from the nice people at Antos Limited.

Sofy was first to try and get in the box:

Lots of nommy treats!

Wiggle and Sofy decided to help themselves:

Sofy took her treat to bed:

While Wiggle stood and chewed:

Lots more treats to be tested!

So far, Wiggle and Sofy are giving their treats the 'paws up'! For more information about their products, visit the Antos website here: www.antos.co.uk or look out for them in pet shops, garden centers and some veterinary surgeries.

Wiggle - Day 1,315

2012-01-25T21:18:00.002Z

Wiggle has been spending some more quality time with his current favourite toy, his ring toy from his Lucy. He sleeps with it:
And he chews it, knowing that his Lucy had a little chew of the toy before she sent it to him:

Sofy, however, just watches....

Wiggle - Day 1,314

2012-01-24T19:41:00.004Z

After our walk this evening, Wiggle decided he wanted to do some chewing. He found his ring toy and took it to bed:

He settled to chew this way:

And chew that way:

And then lick the toy, instead of chewing:

It's the simple things in life that make Wiggle happy!

Wiggle - Day 1,312

2012-01-22T17:30:00.005Z

We caught the last sunshine of the day when we went up to the Downs this afternoon. Wiggle and Sofy had already been out running in the field earlier today, but didn't complain at a car ride this afternoon!

The sun, low in the sky:

Running for the ball, dark shapes in the distance:

Wiggle, chewing while fetching:

Concentrating on the ball - which I was holding!

Sofy was looking particularly alert:

While Wiggle had some slobber and grass in his mouth:

Investigating one of the many mole-hills:

Sofy also found the mole-hills interesting:

Wiggle decided a mole-hill makes a good place to put the ball:

"There's the ball - pick it up and throw it!"

Last little run before heading back to the car:

Wiggle - Day 1,311

2012-01-21T12:57:00.005Z

As its still dark in the morning and in the evening, Wiggle and Sofy don't get much opportunity to run around during the week, so this morning, they were pleased to go to the field and have some fun.

Sofy was ready and waiting to chase the ball:

Wiggle was sitting, waiting too:

Run & pounce!

Happy Lab's, playing ball:

Wiggle is always happy to run:

"Throw the ball!"

"I'm looking cute, throw it again!"

Sofy follows behind Wiggle:

Quick stop and sit:

Wiggle was still playing ball while Sofy was finding fun in another way...

A muddy puddle!

Splashing around:

Tennis ball floating in the pudle while Sofy and Wiggle splash and drink!

Wiggle - Day 1,310

2012-01-20T21:15:00.002Z

A message from Wiggle:

After yesterdays blog entry, we got to thinking - are there any other relatives of Wiggle out there? We know that he's related to his lovely Lucy, and Millie. And Ruby, who reads Wiggle's blog, is also related.

Here's Wiggle's pedigree on his mum's side:

And here's his dad's side:
We'd love to know of other Lab's related to Wiggle!

Wiggle - Day 1,309

2012-01-19T20:23:00.003Z

It's a small world!! We already knew that Wiggle and his lovely Lucy the Lab in Seattle were distantly related by English Champion Kupros Master Mariner. Here's lovely Lucy:

And through Twitter, we found out that Wiggle and Lucy are also related to Millie:

Millie explains in more detail on her blog, here:
http://milliedogblog.wordpress.com/2012/01/19/relatives/

Turns out, Millie and Wiggle are also related by Subar Mister Brown. Maybe it's not such a big world after all?

Happy 2nd Gotcha Day, Sofy!

2012-01-17T20:20:00.006Z

Today is the second anniversary of the date that Sofy came to live with us. This evening she has had a night off from her diet and been snacking on some nommy treats and right now, she's curled up on the sofa with me.

Here's a look back at the past year for Sofy, starting with January 2011 and a walk around the village of Lacock:

February, sitting in the sunshine on a chilly day:

In March, we took a day off and went down to Bournemouth where Sofy and Wiggle had a lot of fun at the beach:

April, springtime, watching the sheeps in the field:

May, a windy day, when Sofy lost control of her ears:

June, fun in the sun, with Wiggle and a tennis ball:

July, cooling off, splashing around in the river:

August, trying to look innocent while surrounded by destroyed toys....

September, at the LRSE&C Dogs Party, with Ebble, Bert, Barney and Wiggle:

October, retrieving ball on a rope from the muddy puddle:

November, an autumnal walk with Wiggle along the old railway track:

December, Christmas Day 2011, all the festive cheer was all too much for Sofy....

We do love Sofy, despite her odd shouty moments towards other dogs, her love of rolling in vile, stinky stuff and we hope to celebrate many more Gotcha Day's with our little choccie sweetheart!

Wiggle - Day 1,305

2012-01-15T17:52:00.005Z

We've had another sunny day here, although not as cold as yesterday. This morning we went to the field, which was muddy rather than frosty as yesterday had been, but Wiggle and Sofy didn't care and enjoyed themselves.

This afternoon, as it was such a nice day, we went for a walk along the old railway track. Wiggle was happy to run ahead, carrying his ball:

Sofy wasn't too far behind him, although Wiggle did look back to see where we were:

Wiggle and Sofy, while I followed behind:

Sofy took herself on a little detour, off down the bank and into the tree's where I spotted her pick something up, chew it several times before spitting it out and then rolling in it! I am guessing a dead bird, but whatever it was, Sofy was smelling disgustingly vile - words cannot describe how awful the stench was!

Wiggle decided not to sit too close to Sofy:

Instead, he was taking in the view:

On the way back, Wiggle as 'his' halt:

As soon as we were home, Sofy was in the bath to get rid of the awful smell, much to her disgust!

Wiggle - Day 1,304

2012-01-14T13:06:00.006Z

We've had a cold but sunny day here today, so this morning it was still frosty when we went to the field. Wiggle had his ball and just wanted play fetch:

Running around was a good way to keep warm on a cold day!

Sofy was concentrating:

In a team effort, Wiggle watches me, while Sofy watches the ball:

And watching the ball wins!

It wasn't long before Wiggle had the ball again:

Sitting in the sunshine:

Playing:

Wiggle, waiting for the ball:

Sofy, looking serious:

Wiggle - Day 1,302

2012-01-12T15:59:00.002Z

While the nights are colder, it's nice having Wiggle sleep on my bed, keeping me warm. However, as lots of my bedding is light, the deal is that he sleeps on his blankie, leaving my side less hairy!

However, Wiggle likes to try and sleep across the bed.....

Just moving over, inch by inch, until when I wake in the early hours to find myself squished to the side and Wiggle stretched out!

Wiggle - Day 1,300

2012-01-10T19:52:00.005Z

Since we got home at the weekend, its all been back to normal for Wiggle and Sofy. I think they've probably enjoyed the rest after all their adventures last week!

Whatever they think, Wiggle is mostly relaxing in his bed:

While Sofy has been napping on the sofa:

Wiggle - Day 1,298

2012-01-08T18:28:00.005Z

We're home now after our lovely week away of house-sitting/holiday but before we left London, we all went out for one last walk, visiting Osterley Park.

Wiggle and Sofy didn't care about the cold and were straight in the water:

Waterbabies:

Toby and Beenz were bright eyed and bushy tailed:

Wiggle, not wanting to get out of the water:
Toby jumps out; Sofy jumps in!

Osterley House in the background:

The house:

Back to the water:

Paddling:

Last group shot of the day - and only Sofy is looking in the right direction!

We've had a great time away, the dogs have all enjoyed their walks and Wiggle especially enjoyed his sight seeing trip, but tomorrow its back to normal, work etc....

Wiggle - Day 1,297

2012-01-07T15:40:00.005Z

Today we went back to Nonsuch Park, as it has been such a nice day and it will probably be our last visit for now, as we go home tomorrow.

After initial sniffs etc, it was time to play ball:

Poor Sofy! Not concentrating and left sitting by herself:

Wiggle went for a low-level pounce on the ball:

Toby, smiley faced, running around:

Wiggle was on his way to the water:

And soon had company while he splashed around:

Fun times, splashing in the muddy water:

Out of the water, noses down, following the smells:

Sofy was feeling energetic - leaping for the ball:

Now, all 4 are lounging around, waiting for their dinner and the arrival of Mindy and Paul, home from their holiday....

Wiggle - Day 1,296

2012-01-06T17:19:00.003Z

We have had a cold but sunny day today, so this morning we went up to the Common for our walk. While Beenz was pootling around, Toby, Sofy and Wiggle wanted to play ball:

Running around in the sunshine:

For Mindy: "Hello Mum!"

Wiggle was too busy getting ahead for the ball, instead of sitting with the others:

Lots of running & Wiggle ends up with slobber all over him!

Bored of ball games, Toby found a big stick. Toby does like his big sticks!

Beenz, not taking part in any ball games:

Realising that Sofy & Wiggle are nearest the ball, Toby turns back towards me:

Always the gentleman, Wiggle let Sofy get the ball:

Wiggle - Day 1,295

2012-01-05T17:11:00.005Z

We all woke early this morning, probably due to the noise of the strong winds battering the house! Wiggle was already on the bed with me, but as soon as I was awake, I was joined by Sofy, then Beenz and then Toby! Everyone got themselves comfortable - Wiggle and Sofy either side of me, Beenz at my feet and Toby on the pillow next to me.

After breakfast, we went to Wimbledon for our walk. Beenz and Wiggle were following the sniffs:

But then Wiggle decided to follow his own route:

Beenz and Toby paired up to smell things together:

Beenz looked bored while Toby was pleased to have found himself another big stick:

Toby, running with his prized stick!

After some chewing, the big stick wasn't so big anymore:

Toby was still busy chewing while the others sat for a group photo:

Sofy and Wiggle playing fetch:

Windy weather = flappy ears!

More fetching:

Toby was still busy.....

Wiggle - Day 1,294

2012-01-04T17:03:00.006Z

Wiggle has had a very exciting afternoon - riding a bus, the London Underground and going to Buckingham Palace!

We all went to the common this morning for our walk and play ball games then this afternoon, Wiggle and I went on a little sight seeing trip, starting out with travelling on a London bus:

"I can see the River Thames, but where are we?"

We were at Westmister, on the Westminster Bridge, next to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament!

Looking back towards Parliament Square:

Commemorating the Queen's Silver Jubilee - wonder if it will be changed this year for the Golden Jubilee?:

Along Birdcage Walk:

A very brazen London squirrel - it should be glad Wiggle's girlfriend Lucy the Lab wasn't with him!

Buckingham Palace!

The Buckingham Fountain:

Wiggle, waiting to go to Buckingham Palace:

"Hmm... should have told the Queen I was visiting, but I didn't, and she's not home!"

One of the Queen's Guardsmen, standing at his sentry post:

"Lucy, look, the balcony whereWilliam & Kate kissed!!"

The Buckingham Fountain, again:

We stopped for a coffee & Wiggle got some fuss from the ladies at the' Inn the Park':

We walked back to Wesminster Station to get our Underground train back to Sloane Square. Wiggle didn't mind the Underground at all!

Sitting, waiting....

Not bothered when a train goes past:

Back on the bus, on our way home:

Wiggle is well and truly, a Dog About Town!

Wiggle - Day 1,293

2012-01-03T16:35:00.003Z

We woke up to howling, gale force winds which then turned into rain. Not long after we'd got to the common for our walk! Undeterred, we walked, we got very wet and Wiggle found something nice and stinky to roll in.

Wiggle was smelling particularly vile so needed to be hosed off. Having the smell washed off, which he no doubt considered fabulous, did not make him happy:

Beenz, Sofy and Toby, just as wet but less stinky, offered some moral support:

Toby was looking sad, on Wiggle's behalf: "Poor Wiggle, he smelt fabbie!"
Beenz was just glad to be home and dry:

And after getting soaked/muddy/stinky, all their leads and collars were washed:

Wiggle - Day 1,292

2012-01-02T14:42:00.006Z

Today we went back to Nonsuch Park as Wiggle, Sofy, Toby and Beenz had a playdate arranged with one of Wiggle's Twitter pals, a lovely Labbie named Dougal.

We all managed to meet up in the same car park, at around the same time, so it was all off to a good start. Sofy stayed on lead, just so she could get to know Dougal. Meanwhile, being typical Labs, Toby, Wiggle and Dougal headed straight for the nearest water!

Toby was enjoying getting wet and bounding around:

Here come's Dougal!

Wiggle was looking for his tennis ball:

But Wiggle was looking in the wrong direction!

Dougal decided to turn back and see what Wiggle was doing:

Beenz had a spring in his step, running to the tree's to check out the sniffs:

Toby found a big stick to chew. Toby likes big sticks!

Wiggle, waiting for the ball:

Once everyone had made friends, Sofy was offlead and didn't hesitate in chasing the ball:

Fetching the ball - and a mouthful of grass:

Sofy and Wiggle, happy together with their ball games:

While Wiggle watched Sofy and the ball, Dougal did some bum-tuck running!

Dougal, ears flapping!

We thought we'd try a group photo....

Three out of 5 facing the right way, while Beenz was chewing a stick and Dougal was licking Sofy's ear!

Nope, not all going to stay still at the same time:

More running games:

Beenz was still happily chewing his stick:

Wiggle ignores Dougal - Wiggle only had eyes for the ball!

New friends, playing nicely together:

Last games before we headed to the cafe - rest for the dogs and hot drinks for the humans!

Thank you the Louise and Arran for suggesting today's get together - was brilliant that they all got on so well and had such fun. I'm surrounded by 4 sleepy but happy Lab's!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T15:49:00.004Z

Happy New Year from Wiggle, Sofy, Toby & Beenz!

Yesterday, we spent the evening downstairs in the kitchen so that the noise and light from the fireworks wouldn't be so bad as the upstairs living room as Toby is not at all happy about fireworks.

We could still hear fireworks throughout the evening, in the run up to midnight but all the dogs were settled, Sofy on the dog bed:

Toby on the other bed:

Wiggle went to the bed in the snug:

While Beenz went upstairs to bed!

As the clocks turned to midnight, there was a lot of firework noise, but apart from a little panting, Toby was ok and we all went off to bed at about 12.30. Toby got himself comfortable on my bed and slept through the night, not even waking when I could hear neighbours singing loudly in their garden!

This morning, the fireworks were all forgotten and after breakfast and a post-breakfast nap, we headed off to Wimbledon Common, except it was so busy, we couldn't get parked. Instead, we drove on to Tooting Common which was much quieter!

Toby found a big stick to chew:

While Beenz pootled around at his own pace:

A little, fluffy dog kept on running up to Sofy, so she went back on lead, just to be on the safe side and Wiggle chased around after his ball. Toby was still busy with his stick to join in the group photo:

Back in the car, Toby, Wiggle and Sofy take their places:

While Beenz travels in the back seat....

Wiggle - Day 1,290

2011-12-31T17:05:00.004Z

Our first night in London started off with a good sleep for everyone - on my bed! Wiggle was on the bed when I went to sleep and Sofy was in the spare room. Then I woke in the night and found Sofy had come in with us. An hour or so later, I woke to find Toby making himself comfortable next to my pillow! Beenz had gone to bed in his own doggy bed in his bedroom and didn't bother coming up the extra flight of stairs.

This morning, once everyone had had their post-breakfast nap, we headed off to Nonsuch Park for our walk. Toby and Beenz were running around with the ball:

Having fun, running around:

Toby and Beenz lost interest in the ball:

While Wiggle and Sofy were still playing ballgames:

Four Happy Lab's:

Sofy's efforts to get fit!

Wiggle goes off by himself:

Quick stop before we headed back to the car:

Toby and Wiggle, letting me know they think its dinner time:

As this will be our last post of 2011, we with everyone a very happy, healthy and safe New Year!

Wiggle - Day 1,289

2011-12-30T20:19:00.002Z

We're in London! We were up and away quite early this morning, arriving before lunchtime at Toby & Beenz's house where we are house-sitting for the week while their humans are on holiday.

After everyone had had their dinner, Wiggle and Sofy had their evening walk. Sofy was bemused at the amount of noise and traffic but once they were home again, everyone started to settle down for the evening.

Toby, Wiggle and Sofy were upstairs:

Before they got on the sofa:

Relaxed Toby:

Beenz was downstairs in the snug:

And now as I type, all 4 are upstairs, on the sofa's, snoring out of synch!

Following on from yesterdays blog, special thanks to Ray for the 'green bean diet' suggestion - Sofy loves them! She's now having them added in to her kibble...

Wiggle - Day 1,288

2011-12-29T20:54:00.003Z

Oh dear.... Poor Sofy has had a bad day. It wasn't bad enough that she went to the vet for her annual check-up and booster, so the prickly little jab, but the vet said she's fat..

In Sofy's defence, she's not been laying in the most flattering position. And she had just had her dinner before she went to the vet. And, um, to be fair, she doesn't run too much ...

Poor Sofy, I do love her though!
Sofy will be upset when she see's her kibble in her bowl and finds there's less than there used to be.....

Wiggle - Day 1,287

2011-12-28T19:43:00.002Z

Today I was back at work, so it was a normal sort of a mid-week day for Wiggle and Sofy. They didn't seem to mind getting back into their usual routine and were probably glad to be able to sleep as much as they wanted and not pretend to take an interest in whatever I was doing!

This evening, after their dinner and walk, they are both settled in for the evening, for more snoozing....

Wiggle - Day 1,286

2011-12-27T10:46:00.004Z

We're back after taking a couple of days off from blogging. Wiggle and Sofy have had a very nice couple of days, starting with opening their Christmas gifts.

They were VERY lucky and had lots of gifts!

They had to wait until Christmas evening to open them though, but I don't think they minded. I'd been to my parents for lunch and brought back plenty of roast turkey dinner leftovers for them. After they'd filled themselves with dinner, it was on to the presents, with Wiggle straight in, opening one of the gifts his girlfriend Lucy had sent:

Sofy was very excited to open a present and find chewy sticks inside - so excited, that she took the pack to bed!

"We're very lucky Labs! Thank you for our gifts"

Although they would have been happy to eat and play with all their gifts, they only had one chewy bone each:

Happily chomping:

After all the extra snacks and goodies, Sofy fell asleep, paw over her head, as if to say "no more, I'm stuffed!"

Thank you for all their gifts!

Wiggle - Day 1,283

2011-12-24T15:11:00.003Z

Wiggle and Sofy probably thought it was a work day today as we were up at our usual time and then I left them at 8.15am. I'd actually gone to finish off my Christmas shopping so they were surprised when I came home a couple of hours later!

While I sat on the floor, wrapping gifts, Wiggle watched, with some interest:

"Those must all be for me!"

"Well, maybe a few are for me?"

Sofy, was not taking any interest at all!

Sofy did have an exciting news-worthy moment earlier when she finally ended wee strike and pee'd by the patio!

23rd December

2011-12-23T19:50:00.007Z

In 2005, 23rd December was also a Friday. I'll always remember, as it was the day I said goodbye for my first rescue Labrador, the very special Guinness.

Guinness, or Gdog was the sweetest, kindest Labrador and was such a good dog that he showed me that rescue dogs have so much to offer. Today, as always on the 23rd December, I think of Gdog and tonight wanted to look back on previous Christmas times...

Gdog, sitting on the chair by the Christmas tree:

The year after we'd said goodbye to Guinness, my Christmas angels were Poppy and Bumpy:

The next year, sadly Poppy had passed away, but Dolly was with us and with Bumpy, came to my parents for Christmas day:

Fate decided that neither Dolly not Bumpy were to celebrate another Christmas, but it wasn't a sad time, as Wiggle had arrived!

Gorgeous old Sir H and Wiggle, humouring me with their reindeer antlers:

2009 and Sir H was warm in his fleece, rolling in the December sunshine:

Then Wiggle was opening his Christmas presents:

And on to last Christmas, Wiggle and Sofy, visiting friends in London for the holidays:

Snowy walk in Richmond Park:

This year, with Wiggle and Sofy, we'll be making more memories, but for today, 23rd December, this blog entry is in memory of Guinness. The Brightest Star in the Sky:

Wiggle - Day 1,281

2011-12-22T19:54:00.000Z

Time to open the Advent calendar:

With a little help, it didn't take long to get out a little cookie!

Wiggle - Day 1,280

2011-12-21T20:10:00.003Z

Oh dear..... It's that time of year when Wiggle and Sofy have to suffer the humiliation and embarassment of Christmas reindeer antlers.....

Personally, I think they look very cute. And also very funny!

Sofy disagree's with me:
While Wiggle decided to just be handsome and put up with the antlers...

Wiggle - Day 1,279

2011-12-20T19:24:00.003Z

Up until today, some of the Christmas cards we had received had been on the fireplace, looking all festive. Tonight though, Wiggle decided to do some modifications....

And after a lot of boinging, took a card to his bed!

Once the card had been extracted from Wiggle's mouth, he went to see where the others had gone - and was disappointed to find they'd all been removed:

Who'd have thought this sleepy, angelic looking Wiggle could have had a naughty 5 minutes?

Wiggle - Day 1,278

2011-12-19T08:58:00.010Z

By now, all of Wiggle's sponsors and supporters (that we know of!) should have received their Christmas card, but for everyone who reads this blog and who's address we don't have, here's our Christmas card to you!

Without the support of donations to Labrador Rescue South East & Central, Wiggle wouldn't be living the life he does, looking so well and happy, with a beautiful coat of shiny fur. The regular donations are really appreciated, especially as Wiggle still has to have the Atopica to stop his allergies starting back up and making him itch and scratch.

I can honestly say that I don't know what I'd do without Wiggle - he is the best boy in the whole world and I love him so much and I will be forever grateful to LRSE&C and the donations which enable the charity to keep Wiggle healthy. I never fail to be touched by the kindness he received; the donations, the messages of support, the emails he gets and just knowing that so many other people share my love for him.

We've been lucky enough to meet some of Wiggle's supporters but I know there are many, many more people out there who we've never met and probably, never will.

We thank you very much indeed and with only 6 sleeps to go, we wish you a Very Merry Christmas!

Wiggle - Day 1,277

2011-12-18T19:40:00.004Z

This morning started off with a walk and play in the field and then Wiggle lounging around while I typed his correspondence for him:
This afternoon, I went to a Christmas reception at work and brought home some party snacks for Wiggle and Sofy:

Waiting patiently for their snacks:

Sofy was quickest - one moment snacks; the next moment, gone!

Wiggle took a little time to enjoy his snacks:

Wiggle - Day 1,276

2011-12-17T13:44:00.004Z

We all had a nice long lie-in this morning, after Wiggle and Sofy had their breakfast early and we all went back to bed! By the time we got up, it was light and the ice on the roads had melted, so we went to the field where Wiggle was very happy to be running around:

Sofy got the whiff of an interesting smell and was running one way:

And back the other way!

Sniffing done, it was time to chase the ball, so Wiggle and Sofy sat patiently, waiting for me to throw the ball:

Sofy running past me:

Wiggle and the ball:

Boingy, happy Labs, playing in the sunshine!

Wiggle - Day 1,274

2011-12-15T20:33:00.003Z

Once I'm home and Wiggle and Sofy have had their dinner, I like to sit down for 10 minutes with a cup of coffee. Sofy also likes coffee and watches me until I'm nearly finished, edging closer in the hope that she might get a little. Tonight she did!

Wiggle didn't want to be left out, so he tried to stick his tongue in the mug too!

Wiggle - Day 1,273

2011-12-14T20:01:00.002Z

Our day started off quite normally, then while I was at work, we had a heavy snow storm, followed by rain. Wiggle and Sofy were fast asleep this afternoon when I surprised them by coming home early as I had an engineer here to service the boiler. Wiggle was quite embarassed that I had caught him off guard!

Wiggle and Sofy both went upstairs to see the engineer while he was working on the boiler, but then decided it was all quite boring so came back down to where I was waiting. As they have dinner when I come home, they were initially thinking they were having an early feed but had to make do with chewy sticks.

This evening, after their walk, Wiggle didn't need to worry about being on guard and was relaxing in his bed:

After I'd pointed the camera at Wiggle, Sofy decided that she wanted to be in front of the lens!

Wiggle - Day 1,272

2011-12-13T19:43:00.003Z

We were surprised to have a knock at the door at 8am this morning and even more surprised to find that the postman had not one, but two parcels for us! Of course Wiggle and Sofy were especially excited as the parcel's were addressed to them!

They had to wait until this evening to open their mail and Sofy got herself a ringside seat:

The first parcel they opened was from Sue and her family, so Wiggle and Sofy would both like to say Thank You! It really is very kind of you to send Christmas gifts to Wiggle and Sofy. They are going to save their presents to open on Christmas day:

The card from Sue is really lovely and has a photo of Sue's dog Jack, who was very handsome indeed:

Next up was the big, heavy parcel all the way from Seattle, America - from Wiggle's girlfriend, LucytheLab! As soon as I'd pulled the tab to open the package, Wiggle was trying to get his nose in and was sniffing:

Sofy tried to open one of the gifts, so that had to be removed quickly!
Lucy's mum had very kindly sent gifts for me too! As I love my coffee, there was some of the special Starbucks Pike Place roast, which is from where Starbucks started and as I do like to bake, some measuring cups! Now I'll be able to tackle American recipe's and not worry about converting the measurements:

Wiggle and Sofy wanted to open their gifts but I told them that they must save them for Christmas day. I am taking no notice of their pleading stares.....

Wiggle - Day 1,271

2011-12-12T19:43:00.003Z

Our day started cold and frosty with an early walk before work. Tonight though, the cold and dry weather had been replaced with strong winds and heavy rain!

It's the sort of rain that is set in for the night, so much to their horror, Wiggle and Sofy had to wear the Horrid Raincoats:

Despite Wiggle thinking his raincoat is horrid, he was wagging and looking cute, so perhaps he doesn't mind it when its raining so heavy?

Wiggle - Day 1,270

2011-12-11T17:58:00.005Z

As its only two weeks until Christmas now, I thought it was time to put some decorations up! We are going to be away for New Year, so as I won't be here to take a tree down, I didn't get a Christmas tree this year.

Even without the tree, I had some furry helpers to assist me:

Sofy took her stocking to bed:

Then Wiggle had a rummage around and found a squidgy little decoration, which he took to the bed too!

Once I'd extracted the decoration from Wiggle's mouth, I told him he could wear his antlers while he was helping:
Sofy, noticing the offending item, decided to try and chew the furry ear!

Watching Wiggle take the decoration to his bed, reminded me of 2 years ago when we'd had a real tree. There was one particular decoration that fascinated Wiggle:

And for anyone who was reading this blog back in 2009 might remember, Wiggle waited until I was out of the room and helped himself to the Little Woolly Man!

This year, Little Woolly Man is safely out of Wiggle's reach...

Our decorations - no tree, but I like them and Wiggle and Sofy's stockings are hanging, ready for their gifts...

Wiggle - Day 1,269

2011-12-10T12:22:00.002Z

I was awake early this morning, even though we didn't need to get up! Wiggle and Sofy were quite happy to have an early breakfast and then go back to bed for cuddles.

Wiggle was asleep again, squished in between Sofy and me:

Sofy decided she liked the pillow next to mine, so got herself comfy:

After a while though, the fidgeting of my bed-guests made it clear that I wasn't going to get back to sleep, so we got up again and went across to the field. We'd had a frost overnight and it was still cold in the field, just as it was getting light:

Sniffing the chilly smells:

The camera batteries ran out just after Wiggle took his ball, off across the field...

Wiggle - Day 1,268

2011-12-09T20:13:00.002Z

Friday photo..... Sleepy Sofy!

Wiggle - Day 1,267

2011-12-08T20:24:00.003Z

Today we've had the very windy weather, plus heavy rain, that's been hitting the UK. Thankfully we've not had it as bad as some area's, but by the time we went for our walk this evening, the rain was horizontal and the wind made Wiggle and Sofy's ears flap.

I had thought about putting their raincoats on them, the "horrid raincoat" that Wiggle really doesn't like, so they had to walk and get wet. Once we were home again, Wiggle and Sofy put on their Equafleece sweaters to dry off and Wiggle decided that he would lay on the towel that I'd put down to dry the wet pawprints!

I think Wiggle was happy in his fleece, moreso than when I found his Christmas antlers last night...

Wiggle - Day 1,266

2011-12-07T21:08:00.002Z

Wiggle's pals on Twitter have come up with a fabbie fundraising idea - Pantopawz!

To raise funds for Labrador Rescue South East & Central and Hounds for Heroes, a dedicated team of anipals bring you #Pantowpaz, some Christmas pantomime fun:

For more details, and to donate, please follow this link:

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/pantopawz

To be involved, just follow hashtage Pantopawz at the weekend! #pantopawz

Wiggle - Day 1,265

2011-12-06T18:15:00.003Z

On these cold winter evenings, I like to enjoy a nice, warming glass if mulled wine. It seems that Wiggle got the taste for it too!
"Nommy! Please can I have some more?"

Sorry Wiggle, but you're not really old enough to drink alcohol!

Wiggle - Day 1,264

2011-12-05T19:27:00.003Z

Wiggle and Sofy didn't open their Advent calendar, so today they each had a treat!

Sofy was trying to open the little window by herself:

"Mum, its broken, I can't get the treat out!"

After a little help from me, the little cookie was there:

Wiggle had his treat and then Sofy had hers, before trying to eat the box!

Wiggle - Day 1,263

2011-12-04T16:26:00.005Z

Even though it's Sunday, we were up early as we don't seem to be able to have a lie-in at a weekend! Wiggle and Sofy didn't mind as we were in the field by 7.30am and they had a lot of fun, running around.

This afternoon, after what had mostly been a dreary day, we went back to the field and caught the last of the light and even some winter sunshine!

Wiggle wasn't thinking about the weather - he only had one thing on his mind:

And he was gone!

Bringing the ball back so I could throw it again:

Some cloud, but also some blue sky!

"Stop faffing around and throw the ball!"

Despite looking like she's about to lie down, Sofy was actually in a 'pounce' position:

Her low to the ground position worked and Sofy got the ball:

Sitting in the winter afternoon sun:
Wiggle runs ahead:

But then runs closer, just to keep an eye on the ball:

Chasing after the ball:

Wiggle watches Sofy dive for the ball:

But after she dropped it, he saw his chance to grab the ball:

Sofy, concentrating hard on the ball:

Wiggle, watching me, watching the ball....

Wiggle - Day 1,262

2011-12-03T13:34:00.000Z

Most weekends, after we've had our morning walk and I've got on with whatever I need to, Wiggle and Sofy sleep for a while. Then, usually around 1pm, the staring starts....

The staring that means "Feed us":

Wiggle and Sofy like to 'surround me', so one in front, one to the side, staring, willing me to feed them early!

So for a few hours, every time I move, they move, dancing around me, hoping that I will feed them early. Today I lasted until just after 3pm and no doubt tomorrow lunchtime, the same routine will be repeated!

Wiggle - Day 1,261

2011-12-02T20:39:00.002Z

Friday photo ...... a chin tickle!

Wiggle - Day 1,260

2011-12-01T19:45:00.003Z

As it's December 1st, Wiggle has opened his Advent Calendar! He will be sharing it with Sofy, taking it in turns to open a little window in the days leading up until Christmas.

First, they checked it out:

Wiggle tried to open window #1 himself....

But he needed my help to get the little biscuit out:

Sofy didn't go without and had a little treat too, but said: "Promise me tomorrow is my turn?!"

Wiggle - Day 1,259

2011-11-30T20:25:00.003Z

Wiggle and Sofy have been celebrating WiggleWednesday - with a nommy sandwich!

They didn't mind that it was on the reduced shelf in the shop on my way home, they each ate their half at high speed!

Wiggle - Day 1,258

2011-11-29T20:49:00.003Z

Wiggle and Sofy are mostly relaxing, having walked in the wind and rain this morning and then again this evening after the rain had stopped and the weather turned colder. They're hoping for a cool morning tomorrow as they love running around in the frosty field, but for now, its all about the lounging....

It's been a couple of weeks now since the Symply food arrived for Wiggle and Sofy to product test:

http://www.petscorner.co.uk/dogs/dog-food-dry/symply-senior-dog-lamb-and-rice

Being possibly the least fussy of breeds, they have been enjoying their new food, eating with their usual enthusiasm. For the last week, they've had only the Symply, after it was introduced gradually and reducing their usual brand of food.

So far, so good - The transition to the new food went smoothly and Wiggle especially has had bags of energy, so the Symply definitely agree's with them!

Wiggle - Day 1,257

2011-11-28T22:02:00.003Z

Yesterday I was looking on the Labrador Rescue South East & Central Facebook page and this gorgeous girl caught my eye:

Her write up says: "This lovely girl is Lily who is three years old and spayed. Lily is a very uncomfortable girl at the moment as she has very itchy skin due to allergies which has made her lose her fur from scratching. She is currently on treatment to try and settle this down and make her more comfortable. Lily has lived with small children and is wonderful around them, she also has lived with another dog.

Our helper described her as the 'perfect dog and an absolute sweetheart'. Lily will need a home who are prepared to follow the instructions given by the vet to the letter. She can only be fed her special food and is currently attending the vet for anti allergy injections on a regular basis. Hopefully, once these start to work, the visits will get less and less until hopefully her condition is under control. Lily did have a problem with her hips when she was little but has not had any trouble now for over a year. This side of things we believe can be managed by keeping her weight strictly under control, managed regular exercise and perhaps a supplement for her joints-hydrotherapy would be great idea also!

All in all Lily is a wonderful, kind girl who really does deserve a lovely home where someone is prepared to get her skin under control. We have had many dogs through Labrador Rescue with a similar problem to Lily (Wiggle to name a famous one!), and they have proved that given correct treatment, and with patience they can live a much more comfortable life.

The Charity will continue to assist in funding treatment for Lily's skin in her new home. If you would like a chat about the lovely Lily please contact Barbara 01234 831854 or Jacky 07736 791899"

She sounds so sweet and with skin problems no worse than Wiggle. We're keeping fingers and paws crossed that Lily finds her special forever home very soon!

Wiggle - Day 1,256

2011-11-27T16:15:00.004Z

Even though its the weekend, this morning we were up and out early, while it was still dark and dreary but Wiggle and Sofy didn't care about the weather and enjoyed themselves, running around. They slept while I got on with stuff around the house and this afternoon, we went out to catch the last sunshine of the day.

Waiting for the ball to be thrown:

Sofy was fastest:

Wiggle, looking super-cute, tilting his head as if to say: "Please throw it more in my direction next time!"

Indeed Wiggle did get the ball, and ran off down the slope with it:

Running with the ball:

The low sun, casting a shadow of all 3 of us:

Wiggle was ahead while Sofy was pootling about nearer to me:

Sunny Sofy:

The sun was fading as we walked back up the field:

Running to the sun.....

Wiggle - Day 1,254

2011-11-25T21:38:00.002Z

Friday photo....

Wiggle - Day 1,253

2011-11-24T09:13:00.003Z

Wiggle, Sofy and I would like to wish all our American friends and readers a very Happy Thanksgiving!

We're very thankful to have had the wonderful support of LRSE&C since the day Wiggle arrived here back in June of 2008. And also, so thankful to everyone who has supported Wiggle, strangers who have become friends and followers who we will never meet.

Wiggle - Day 1,252

2011-11-23T20:26:00.002Z

Sofy thinks its good having Wiggle as a brother - especially when he makes such a good pillow!

Wiggle - Day 1,251

2011-11-22T20:06:00.003Z

For Sofy, Wee Strike entered another day today. She is still refusing to wee out by the patio while Wiggle is less fussy!

Last night we had heavy rain so the ground was wet this morning, which meant that if Wiggle and Sofy could have gone on the grass, they'd have got very muddy! We have heavy clay soil here which really holds the water, so over the winter, the garden can turn into a bog, which can't be very nice for paws.

A few weeks ago I had cleared out a dead conifer at the side of the patio, so combined with the pea gravel and fallen leaves, Wiggle seems quite happy with the new bathroom facilities. I don't know how long Sofy will last with her protest, but the irony is that when we stay with our London friends, she has no problem with going to the bathroom in their paved garden!

Wiggle - Day 1,250

2011-11-21T08:54:00.004Z

Wee strike entered Day 2 today, with both Wiggle and Sofy refusing to wee on or by the patio. Last night, neither of them were giving up their protest, and did not have a pre-bedtime wee:

We went across to the field for our morning walk so they wee'd as much as they could, in between running around. This evening, Wiggle's need to pee got the better of him and after only one day, his WeeStrike was over and he used the gravel alongside the patio to relieve himself.

Sofy is still maintaining the protest. I did remind her that last year, the temporary fence went up at the end of October, so this time, they have had a few more weeks:

http://wigglethedog.blogspot.com/2010/10/wiggle-day-864.html

Despite both Wiggle and Sofy being unimpressed with the new bathroom arrangements, during our walk this evening they both happily wee'd as we walked on the pavement to the shop and back. I'm not sure there's a huge difference between wee'ing on the pavement and on the patio...

Wiggle - Day 1,249

2011-11-20T16:09:00.002Z

Wiggle and Sofy's day started off well - Wiggle had slept on my bed, then in the early hours, he got up and when I woke, Sofy was laying next to me, on her back with her paws in the air, snoring loudly. We were up quite early again and went to the field so they had fun, running around, chasing the tennis ball before coming home for their breakfast and Sunday morning treat of a splash of milk after their kibble.

Then, as far as they were concerned, the day started to go downhill. Wiggle lay upstairs in the bedroom while I changed the bedlinen, realising that the clean covers meant he wouldn't be sleeping on my bed tonight.

Late, while Wiggle was snoozing on the sofa, I snuck outside and put up the temporary fence, separating the grass from the patio. This time of year, Wiggle and Sofy don't spend so much time outside and with the ground being clay soil, it just gets boggy and eventually muddy.

Once the fence was up, Wiggle and Sofy came out to see what I had been doing and were not impressed!

They both tried to find a way through:

But realised there was no way to get through the fence!

Sofy may have been considering jumping, looking up to see how high the fence is:

Wiggle and Sofy say: "Wee Strike has now started!"

Wiggle - Day 1,248

2011-11-19T13:48:00.003Z

This morning we were up and out early, before it was properly light. Wiggle and Sofy didn't mind and enjoyed themselves, running around in the field. After they had had breakfast and were happily snoozing, I went over to my parents and there was a gift for Wiggle and Sofy - some tennis balls!

As its been a nice day here, Wiggle and Sofy were keen to play out in the garden with their new tennis balls:
Sofy was chewing:

And then trying to chew two balls at once, which of course is not easy!

Wiggle was happy - boinging with his ball, then bringing it to show me:

Both happily chewing on their new toys:

Wiggle - Day 1,247

2011-11-18T20:32:00.000Z

Yesterday evening, while I was upstairs doing stuff, Wiggle had followed me as he often does, to keep me company. While my back was turned, he decided it was bedtime and got up on my bed!

I did try to explain to Wiggle that he was a couple of hours too early for bedtime, but he just looked at me like I was silly, and when he was on my bed, anytime was time for sleeps!

Wiggle - Day 1,246

2011-11-17T20:31:00.002Z

Not much to report today - I've been at work so we walked early this morning, leaving the house before it was even light! Wiggle and Sofy had fun though, running around in the field before spending a lot of their day lounging around and napping.

This evening, once dinner had been eaten and we'd had our walk, it was time for more snoozing for Wiggle.....

Wiggle - Day 1,245

2011-11-16T19:29:00.003Z

It might be #WiggleWednesday - but there's not much wiggling going on!

Wiggle - Day 1,244

2011-11-15T09:15:00.004Z

The mystery of the big box is revealed!

A big bag of Symply dog food!

Wiggle and Sofy were approached and asked to be product testers for the Symply range of petfoods. Of course asking Labrador's to test a food product may not bring the most scientific results as to be honest, there's not a lot they won't eat! However, the nice people at Pets Corner asked for feedback, so Wiggle and Sofy were happy to oblige - it is food after all!

The Symply range isn't one I'd come across before but having read the information on the website, it looked like a good product to try. We were sent the Senior/Overweight variety, which has added fish oils and glucosamine supplements, so for Wiggle being older and Sofy being, shall we say, 'chunky', it was a good choice. Here's the product info:

http://www.petscorner.co.uk/symply/

When introducing any new food, it's important to change gradually so today, Wiggle and Sofy had some of the Symply food mixed in with their usual kibble:

Wiggle didn't hesitate and was happily tucking in:

Sofy was much quicker and had finished already!

I will continue to replace their usual kibble with the Symply food and report back over the coming weeks!

Wiggle - Day 1,243

2011-11-14T11:14:00.004Z

Once again, thank you to everyone who has ordered a LRSE&C 2012 Calendar, we really appreciate the support and we're glad to know that calendars even sent to the other side of the world have arrived safely!

Wiggle's best girl Lucy was so excited that she even blogged about her calendar!

http://lucythelabseattle.blogspot.com/

It's not too late to order your calendar and support Labrador Rescue South East & Central. Ordering details are here:
http://wigglethedog.blogspot.com/2011/10/wiggle-day-1218.html

In other news, this evening a neighbour brought round a parcel that he'd taken in for us, but it wasn't for me.....

Wiggle and Sofy were quick to claim their parcel and will be explaining all tomorrow!

Wiggle - Day 1,242

2011-11-13T16:06:00.005Z

This morning we were up early and out in the field before it was even properly light but Wiggle and Sofy didn't mind and enjoyed running around in the wet grass.

While I got on with the boring cleaning and laundry chores, Wiggle and Sofy snoozed, saving their energy for this afternoon's walk along the old railway track. Wiggle, as usual, ran on ahead:

Sniffing the interesting smells in the fallen leaves:

Sniffing gave way for running after the ball:

Funghi in the leaves:

Wiggle wasn't interesting in the mushroom though, preferring to run ahead....

And then run with a cyclist who had over-taken him!

Having given up on following the cyclist, Wiggle wandered along the path while Sofy was more interesting in the smells:

Wiggle didn't want to let go of his tennis ball:

One dog and his tennis ball, leading the way....

Wiggle found the way into a field:

But decided it wasn't very interesting and came back again:

Nearing the end of our walk, alongside what had been the old station platform, many years ago:

Wiggle and HIS Halt!

Wiggle - Day 1,241

2011-11-12T16:30:00.005Z

When we walked this morning, it was still misty and the sun wasn't out properly until we got home, so this afternoon, we made the most of the last of the sunshine of the day and walked in the fields. Wiggle was leading the way:

Flappy-ears:

Sofy will never get to walk in front when she keeps on stopping to chew grass!

And as usual, I'm the one walking behind!

Quick stop for a sit and a treat:

Wiggle decided to go over the ditch:

But was going the wrong way, so had to come back again:

Going in the right direction, to carry on with our walk:

Wiggle - Day 1,239

2011-11-10T20:49:00.003Z

There's not been too much to report from Wiggle's World. At this time of year, we're only getting a weekday walk in the light in the mornings and the dark evenings don't offer many options for interesting things!

Wiggle doesn't seem to mind too much and he's been enjoying time in his bed, probably dreaming about his Lucy:

Wiggle also likes the cooler weathe as he's been spending more nights sleeping on my bed!

Wiggle - Day 1,237

2011-11-08T20:33:00.003Z

We had come home from our evening walk, all was peaceful, Sofy upstairs and Wiggle in his bed. I was thinking how cute Wiggle looked, all curled up but switching on the camera made a noise ....

And Sofy appeared, thinking she should be in the photo too!

Wiggle - Day 1,236

2011-11-07T20:00:00.003Z

At the weekend, the fabbie LRSE&C desk calendar I had ordered arrived, and its great!

Of course I am biased, as there are lots of pictures of Sir H and Wiggle:

A big thank you to everyone who has ordered calendars already, your support is really appreciated.

Details of how to get your calendar are in the link at the top right of the blog.

Thank you!

Wiggle - Day 1,235

2011-11-06T18:17:00.003Z

Last night there were a lot of fireworks around, being Bonfire Night, but apart from a couple of really loud bangs, Wiggle and Sofy weren't worried at all with Sofy choosing to sleep upstairs in the spare room while Wiggle stayed downstairs with me. Even when they went out for their pre-bedtime wee, neither worried about the fireworks and Sofy looked up in the sky as one firework went off while she was squatting!

This morning, we had a misty and cold start so I wrapped up warm and we went to the field:

One Wiggle and His Ball:

Morning playtime, sunshine despite the chill in the air:

After Sofy lost interest in the ball and dropped it, Wiggle saw his chance!

Wiggle - Day 1,234

2011-11-05T16:35:00.005Z

This afternoon I took Wiggle and Sofy to the Downs for some playtime and as soon as we got there, they were out of the car and running!

Wiggle was running in his own direction while Sofy had the ball:

Waiting for me to pick up the ball and throw it:

Wiggle outruns Sofy:

And keeps on running!

Even the rope across his nose doesn't distract Wiggle:

Staring at me, willing me to throw the ball again:

Sofy's turn:

Playing nicely, taking it in turns with the ball:

Poor Sofy, her little legs couldn't keep up with Wiggle:
But she didn't care!

Wiggle had slobber on his face:

But being slobber wasn't going to slow Wiggle down:

Wiggle - Day 1,232

2011-11-03T20:39:00.003Z

This evening, Wiggle has had a quieter night, staying home and relaxing on the sofa:

It's a hard life, being Wiggle!

Wiggle - Day 1,231

2011-11-02T08:54:00.003Z

This morning after our walk, Sofy was showing where she likes to go and nap. She also took the opportunity to look super-cute after dragging the blanket across the bed, scrunching it up and making a little pillow for herself:

This evening, Wiggle came to the pub with me for a couple of hours as there was a little get together with some work colleagues. Sofy was a good girl, staying home and nomming on a Kong and then taking herself off to bed. Wiggle enjoyed being fed a few snacks from our plates and geting lots of fuss.

It's a bit of a handful to take both Wiggle and Sofy to the pub, especially when there's food, so next time it will be Sofy's turn...

Wiggle - Day 1,230

2011-11-01T19:42:00.003Z

Our morning started off bright and dry, so Wiggle and Sofy enjoyed a walk across the field, some running around and sniffing the smells and getting their feet wet with the dew. After breakfast, Sofy went back upstairs to bed while Wiggle chose the sofa for his lounging:

So while I was busy at work, Wiggle and Sofy spent most of their day lounging and snoozing!

Wiggle - Day 1,229

2011-10-31T10:53:00.006Z

Wiggle and Sofy have not been Trick or Treating, nor have we had any visitors to the house. Due to Sofy's fondness for throwing herself at the door when someone knocks, I put a sign up saying Sorry, No Trick or Treats Please! Thankfully, we've had a peaceful evening and Sofy is fast asleep upstairs while Wiggle is lounging on his bed.

We did hear fireworks going off earlier and no doubt there will be more in the run up to 5th of November. Fortunately, neither Wiggle or Sofy are bothered about the noises so they weren't upset by the loud bangs, but not all dogs are so relaxed. There's some good advice for coping with fireworks on the MyPetBubble website:

http://www.mypetbubble.com/index.php/component/content/article/71-news/209-fireworks

Wiggle - Day 1,228

2011-10-30T18:33:00.004Z

Not such a nice day here today, but we made the most of the clocks going back for the end of BST and had a little lie-in. Later in the morning, we went across to the field and Wiggle was excited, despite the dreary weather:
Wiggle was poised to run, while Sofy looked like she was enjoying a little sit down!

Wiggle found something interesting to sniff, while Sofy ran with the ball:

Once again, Wiggle had a slobbery face:

Running around:

Back to playing chase-the-ball games:

Here comes Wiggle!

Poor Sofy, she was looking quite worn out...

Wiggle - Day 1,227

2011-10-29T12:23:00.009+01:00

This morning we went out to get dogfood, so that meant a stop at Maude Heath on the way back for some playtime. Wiggle and Sofy were in the back of the car, sitting patiently during their journey:

A lovely, sunny autumn day:

Wiggle and Sofy were both enjoying the sunny day:

Sofy boinged around with the ball, while Wiggle helped himself to a quick snack - cowpoop!

Snack over, Wiggle was running with the ball, with Sofy hot on his heels:

Sofy found a nice muddy puddle to splash around in:

Another look at the view:

Somehow, both Wiggle and Sofy were looking the wrong way when I threw the ball, so Wiggle was busy running around, trying to find it (Sofy was busy snacking):

Wiggle was running, searching for the ball:

Getting closer......

Seen the ball!

And bringing it back to me:

Well done Wiggle!

Sofy was looking pleased that the ball had been found, even though she didn't bother to help find it!

Next throw and it was Wiggle who was quickest:

Sofy went in for the sideways tackle:

And in the process, Wiggle got covered in slobber!

Wiggle stopped for another quick snack, while Sofy was running towards me....

But then Wiggle was beside her, and they had other things on their mind:

Splashing!

I wasn't sure at this point if Sofy remembered that she had been carrying the ball:

The ball, barely floating in the muddy water:

Sofy tried to get it out:

But before we knew what was happening, Wiggle dived in and got the ball!

A muddy faced Wiggle:

Sofy, looking very sulky that she didn't get the ball, even though she had mud on her chin!

Equally muddy....

Wiggle - Day 1,226

2011-10-28T20:21:00.003+01:00

After their dinner, then a walk in the field, Wiggle and Sofy spent some time partaking in one of their favourite hobbies - watching me eat my supper! Wiggle opted for sitting right in front of me:

While Sofy tried the side-on view.....

Wiggle - Day 1,225

2011-10-27T20:24:00.002+01:00

We've had a horrid, dreary, drizzly day here, so after our walk, Wiggle and Sofy decided the best thing was to settle down in the warm and dry:

I don't blame them!

Wiggle - Day 1,224

2011-10-26T20:02:00.002+01:00

Thank you to everyone who's requested the ordering details for the LRSE&C calendars! I've replied to all requests and hope you're all pleased with your calendar's once you get them. I'm not sure how long they will take to arrive as I believe they are being printed in batches, but please bear with us!

Here's one of my favourite pictures which appears in the calendar:

This evening, Wiggle was playing in the garden, even though it was starting to get dark, hence the poor quality photo:

The light was fading so fast that the camera flash came on automatically!

Wiggle and Sofy don't seem to worry about the dark though and have been enjoying their walks in the field, wearing their Puplights so they can run around and I can see where they are!

Wiggle - Day 1,222

2011-10-24T20:01:00.003+01:00

After their fun walk yesterday, splashing around in the river and running and chasing the ball, Wiggle wasn't doing much at all last night:

Sofy was worn out too:

This evening we've had strong winds and heavy rain, so after a very soggy walk in the field, Wiggle and Sofy are in similar positions to last night!

Wiggle - Day 1,221

2011-10-23T16:32:00.008+01:00

This afternoon, I took Wiggle and Sofy to the river for a walk and as soon as they were off the lead, they were both sitting, waiting for me to throw the ball:

As soon as I'd thrown the ball, they were both in the water:

Waiting again:

Splashing around in the river:

Wiggle was waiting in the water, while Sofy sat closer to me:

Although Wiggle was already in the water, Sofy managed to get to the ball first:

Soggy Sofy:

And Wet Wiggle!

Wiggle was running with the ball:

And kept running!

And ran some more!

A little slobber across the nose, to go with the soggy doggy look:

Sofy was just as damp:

Sofy's technique was to literally throw herself at the ball:

Wiggle leapt up the riverbank:

Wiggle and Sofy, downriver:

Wiggle chases Sofy and the ball:

Sofy shows her agile side, leaping up from the water:

Wiggle also wanted to show how athletic he was:

Sofy, looking quite serious:

Wiggle, staring hard at the ball in my other hand!

Walking back towards the car, we saw a heron:

And in the car, after a rub down with the towel, fleeces went on to dry off the damp dogs....

Wiggle - Day 1,220

2011-10-22T15:54:00.004+01:00

We've had a sunny but chilly day here so while I was out in the garden doing some tidying, Wiggle and Sofy were keeping me company.

Once I'd finished my work, Wiggle and Sofy were playing ball:

Taking it in turns:

Wiggle decided to get the rope tuggy:

But before long, had the tennis ball again:

Too busy looking at me, Wiggle dropped the ball, only to have it taken by Sofy:

"Mum! She took the ball!"

Sofy gave up the ball, while her ears did their own thing in the breeze......

Wiggle - Day 1,219

2011-10-21T20:41:00.001+01:00

Friday photo....

Wiggle - Day 1,218

2011-10-20T19:45:00.002+01:00

The Labrador Rescue South East & Central 2012 Calendar has arrived!

This year, the theme is humorous Labs and each month features a lovely LRSE&C rescue Labrador. Here's Wiggle, admiring the calendar, with dear old Sir H as the cover boy:

Lovely Sir H, happily wallowing in the mud:

Wiggle also features:

Sofy, is not in the calendar. And is sulking......

The calendar's really are great and are what every home needs! They are very reasonably priced too, just £7.50 inc P&P for the wall calendar and £3.50 inc P&P for a desk calendar. Postage overseas can be arranged, at the relevant cost.

Profits from the calendar will go to the charity, so if you would like one of these Fabbie Labbie calendars, please email wiggle.the.dog@gmail.com and I'll send you the order form.

Wiggle - Day 1,216

2011-10-18T19:57:00.003+01:00

An unremarkable day really for Wiggle and Sofy. Started with a chilly walk across the field just as it was getting light and then our walk this evening was in the dark, although they did get to run around in the field, wearing their Puplights.

This evening, we're all settled in the warm, all activties over for the day. Wiggle on his bed:

And Sofy on the sofa:

Wiggle - Day 1,214

2011-10-16T16:54:00.005+01:00

After a chilly start, we have had another lovely, sunny autumn day here in our corner of the world. Wiggle and Sofy got nice and damp in the field this morning, running around in the dewy grass, then later, Wiggle lay in the sun, watching me, hoping something fun was going to happen:

Today turned into the kind of day which reminds me why autumn is my favourite season, so this afternoon we went for a walk along the old railway track.

Wiggle leads the way:

Sofy sat for the ball while Wiggle, as always, was a few steps ahead:

Bringing the ball back to me:

"Now throw it again!"

Sofy follows Wiggle, enjoying the sunny afternoon:

Sitting in the sunshine, Sofy being particularly good at matching the autumn colours!

Wiggle, coming back to check on me:

Walking through the tunnel of tree's:

We came up to a bridge, which must be quite old as its a fair few years since the railway line stopped coming this way!

Wiggle found some water - a little stream running down the bank, so got in to get his paws wet:

After that lovely, sunny walk, Wiggle and Sofy are lounging around, resting....