Gizmo's World

Gizzy gets a Group 4

2010-05-31T23:12:00.000-07:00

I took dad for a run around the ring at the Tyee Kennel Club dog show, and we won!!!...So then we got to go back in the ring with all the other winners of the working group. It was very exciting, I had to work very hard at looking good and at the end of it all I was one of 4 selected!!!
It was a lot of fun, and I met a lot of people. One couple asked if I was the Gizzy from You Tube. They watch all my videos, so I gave them my pawtograph.

2010 Canadian National

2010-04-07T14:08:00.000-07:00

What a very exciting time we had at the Newfoundland Dog Club of Canada National in Chilliwack. I knew I was in for a bit of a trip when mom & dad loaded just about everything I own into the truck, including my bed and my stuffie!!!.... After a 2 hour ferry ride and a 2 hour drive we finally arrived at our hotel which was going to be our home for the next 5 nights.

We settled in for the night and first thing Thursday morning, before breakfast even, we were at the site for the Biggest Draft Test in Canadian History, over 35 dogs entered all working hard to get the prestigious title of Draft Dog or DD. We were number 10, I like that number!...we settled down for a bit and watched all the other amazing dogs before us, Berners and Newfies in our group.

Then it was my turn....the 1rst leg of 3 which was the obedience part. This test is done all off leash, so it was very important that I listened to dad and stay by his side, well for most of it anyway. We did our left turns, right turns, about turns, fast walking, slow walking, normal walking, we stopped at the same time, and then it was time for the 1 minute stand stay. I'm not supposed to move at all just stand and face my dad who is 6 ft away from me for 1 minute. Then he comes back and the judge says "exercise complete". We had 12 dogs in our group and once all 12 were finished the last 6 entered the course for the 3 minute down stay. This is my favorite, we just lay down and dad walks to the other side and faces me for 3 minutes. Then he comes back, and again the judge says "exercise complete." Now it's rest time while the 9 before me do their controlled cart exercises.

So one at a time the carts get moved up to position for the next dog, and when my cart moves I know it's my turn. So off dad and I go. We enter the course and dad puts my harness on and hooks me up to my cart. The judge then goes over everything to make sure dad had done it right. The 2nd part of the test has begun. Off we go forward, left turns right turns, slow walking normal, stops, we go around some trees, but on the way I see my mom and want to go say hi!...I just about left the test area and dad tells me "Gizmo NO!!" oh oh....so I stop and he backs me up but then I see her again and want to go and the same thing happens....why can't I just go see my mom for a sec?
then we do some figure 8's around some barrels, dad has to back me up for me to make the tight turns, but I did it. Then we back up 4ft, piece of cake, I like my back ups!
Once we do that, the judge says exercise complete and we are done!!...well stage 2 anyway, now we wait for the last and final part of the test, which is the field work.
We split into groups for this part of the test, and there was only me and 1 other dog in my group. I never did see mom at all during this part of the test, I think dad told her to hide or something...VBG!!
So we do some field work then the 40lbs of weight gets put into my cart, and off the 4 of us go, but just a little ways into it the cart behind me, his wheel falls off...something about it breaking, so they can't finish the test, but I have to wait for someone else to join me so that I don't complete it alone. Once that is all done, we have to wait for the next set of 12 to complete their test before we find out if I pass or not.

Mom thinks that because I tried to leave the course I'm going to have to take the test again at another time. So it was a big big surprise to us when they called my name at the award presentation and I got 3 Red Ribbons and a trophy!....I got pictures with my cart and the judges and a big celebration happened, but I really was too tired to enjoy it and just wanted to go back to my hotel.

My next blog entry will be about the Dog show itself. My secretary needs a break.
Oh so now I have more letters at the end of my name, I'm now:
Can CH. Mainsail's Blackbeary Express CGN TD DD
whew...that's a mouthful!!!!
I like Gizzy better!!!

And Then I Turned 6

2010-03-19T21:17:00.000-07:00

So mom woke up singing this song..."Today is your birthday!...we're gonna have a good time!"

And followed that by saying "It's a Gizzy Day!"...I thought every day was a Gizzy day!....but hey I'll take it. And so it began...the best day I've had in a long time....
In the truck and to the dog park we went....this was quite early and there was no one there, so I had the whole park to myself. Lots of sniffs and I ran from tree to tree with mom pulling up the rear.

Then mom had to go shopping, but she pops the back of the truck open so I can watch everyone come and go.
Home we went and we weren't there for long before we headed to the beach, and I just knew that I was going swimming, it was so much fun.

Ok so now this is where it goes a little sideways. But it always happens after swimming and that is a bath, but this just wasn't a bath it was washing and conditioning, then to the blower we went. Ah mom I'm getting a little tired here....it's past my nap time.
Finally I cut loose and grabed my stuffie and ran...I plopped myself down on my pillow. Yipee she's going to leave me alone now.

But not for long...here she comes with keys and leash in hand and says..."let's go for a truck ride...it's time to see Dr. Hayward"..hey wait a minute, you said this was going to be a Gizzy day...whats with the Doc's visit?
Oh it's to look at my paw, I have a small cut on my pad, and mom just wanted to make sure it was ok...and yup Dr. Hayward said we just have to wash it with some special soap and it should be good in a few days. But mom can't leave without me being weighed....and it was 180lbs. I'm really liking the homemade kibble and food my mom has been making me, and I guess I've put a little weight on.....mom said something about more exercise....oh boy!
When we got home, dad was already there, so I got a big birthday rub down from him and a nice long chin scratch....but I was tired and just wanted to eat dinner and rest...after all I'm a senior now right?
So yes I did have a Gizzy day, it was a lot of fun.
I hope your birthday is as exciting as mine was.
Gizzy

Mr. Big Stuff

2010-02-21T19:53:00.001-08:00

Thanks to Lori, Gizzy got a new bib!...You can order these at www.otiswear.com

Gizmo on Canvas

2010-02-10T16:36:00.000-08:00

Paintings by Cindy Williams "Pipeline Newfoundlands"

Look what Cindy did!! She painted me...not once but twice...you should have seen mom and dad when they got these paintings of moi in the mail. They now sit proudly on our mantel for all to see.

Gizzy's Magazine Debut

2010-02-02T20:59:00.000-08:00

Gizzy's 2009 Christmas Activities

2009-12-31T12:02:00.000-08:00

Oh I have had such a busy time over Christmas. Not only the parade, but I got to visit some seniors at the Nanaimo Seniors Village. It was me and Santa...aka dad...yup he tried to fool me by putting on this Santa suit, but I could smell him a mile away.

It was fun going around and getting hugs from the grandma's and grandpa's and in return I gave them all Candy Canes.
We made one very special visit to a gentleman's suite. His name is Jack and he is 94 years old...geeze...how old would I have to be in dog years to be 94?

Anyway he was very sad this year as he had just lost his wife a month or so ago. She is at the Rainbow Bridge awaiting his arrival. Santa decorated Jack's suite up with Christmas lights and gave him a present to open Christmas day... The whole time Jack was trying to figure out who Santa was...I knew but I wasn't telling.

Then the next day I got to visit Santa the the pet store. I liked him a lot and told him all the neat stuff I wanted for Christmas. He wasn't sure if he could bring me a girl or not, but he did say that he could probably pull through with the new bed.

and den.............

I finally did it!.. I carted my first live load.... It was a lot of fun. I took mom and dad's nieces and nephews for cart rides up and down our road.
They really enjoyed themselves and they would have liked to have done more, but my dad was looking after me and said I had had enough. It's tuff work pulling those kids all over.

One thing it did for me tho was worked up my appetite. Dad fed me my biggest dinner yet and I even licked the plate clean!
Oh and then I needed cookies...lots of them...mom makes the best cookies!
Now I'm going for my last swim of 2009, in the dog pool. Mom has my boat cushion packed and my bright orange buoy. I think I'm in for a load of fun.
I'll get my mom to post some pictures.
TTYL
Gizzy

Everybody Loves a Parade

2009-12-15T07:18:00.000-08:00

Well it finally happened...mom and dad entered moi in the Santa Parade. So on goes the hat and the jingle bells.
Before we got started I met my first horse. Ok so it was a miniature horse, and maybe I was just a wee bit bigger than him, it was still a horse! I so wanted to sniff his butt, but dad wouldn't let me, he said something about me getting kicked.

Mom decorated my cart all up...I'm not sure what she was thinking, I have never pulled a cart very far before, but once it was all hooked up to me, I just followed around behind everyone. I put a lot of smiles on peoples faces, and they even clapped for me.

At the end of the parade I was so pooped I just laid down, while dad unhitched me from my cart.

Then these guys from the hockey team came by, I really liked them, we got our picture taken together, I was part of the team!
Everywhere I looked there was a crowd of people around me. It was very tiring. But I had a lot of fun. And mom and dad said they were so impressed that I pulled my cart the whole way. I even got on T.V.!!!
From all of us we would like to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. My goals this coming year are to enter the National Specialty in April where I hope to meet a lot of friends and try to get my Drafting Title. I'm going to practice again all summer and hopefully work on getting my Water Dog Title. And mom and dad keep mentioning something about a new brother or sister for me.....the first two I'm ok with, but having to share everything with a new puppy, I'm really not to keen about.
All the best to you and your families.
Thanks for reading,
Love Gizmo

I do like ice cream...yes I do!

2009-11-06T23:17:00.000-08:00

What I did over the summer by Gizmo Savory

2009-11-06T22:14:00.000-08:00

I finally convinced my mom to update my blog. With the help of my dad here is the story of what I did this summer. I was a very busy boy, but I had alot of fun!

Well it all started in around May when my mom and dad said I was going to get re-tired (I never did see any tires and couldn't quite figure out how you get them on something that has no rims, but I didn't think I really wanted to find out so I kinda left it alone.) Anyway shortly after that me and a bunch of my friends and their mom's and dad's started meeting at Shawnigan Lake for a swim on Saturdays. It started out just being for a fun get together but as the summer progressed our parents started to get us more focused on certain exercises. It was still a lot of fun and sometimes if I was really good I would get part of a bran muffin or something. Now you know that I don't usually eat any kind of food let alone human food but after I have been swimming for a while I could eat just about anything. Soon we were pulling in boats and adding in some handling to the mix. I like the boat pulling the best!

oh alright then, I like riding in the boat the best but if someone needed saving I could if I wanted to pull the boat to shore!

On the last weekend in August we all went up to Hornby Island for a few days and stayed at my property up there. You already know that Hornby is one of my most favorite places in the whole world. The beaches are just awesome and on some days we go to four or more beaches in one day! I love it!!! We all practiced everyday and had a great time!

Once we came back from Hornby we practiced more but at our beach near our house in the ocean. My mom and dad were getting me all ready for my water test. I was working all summer towards my Water Dog Title, and now I was going to get tested.

But that is when I pointed out my injury on my paw. I had an infection and it required an operation and stitches and meds and everything. I wasn't allowed to get it wet for weeks....so guess out...I missed my test.

But I sure had a lot of fun learning and the swimming was such a relief from the warm summer we had!

Now the staff have got me this new body harness and the wheeled thing they want to attach me and the new harness to. I really like the new harness (it has my name on it too) but I don’t know about the wheeled thing . It looks like a lot of work top me (I think I can feel my foot getting sore again). They tell me it’s what we are going to be doing until the national so I guess I should make the best of it besides it seems to humour the staff.

By for now Gizmo

PS I will let you know how the wheeled thing goes.

I thought that bears hibernated in the winter...................

I Rescued My Mom Today!

2009-07-19T09:51:00.000-07:00

Well this isn't really me, but I can dream big, can't I...

We are progressing quite well with our Water Training. It's one of my most favourite things to do. Today we were only allowed into the water one at a time, and we went through the steps to the test. Once the on land obedience is done, which is basically showing some control, which I have to tell you, beleive it or not, I'm exhibiting a wee bit of control these days. Mom says it's because I'm older and wiser and by now I should know what is expected of me. Yeah OK mom..whatever!! So after the heeling, recall and the one minute down it's into the water we go, again exhibiting control the whole time of course. There are five exercises that I must complete in order to pass my water test. Which takes place in September. The first one is "Simple Retrieve" Dad throws my favourite bumper into the water and when dad tells me to go get it I must swim directly to it and return it to dads hand. Just like the exercise says "Simple" right? Exercise 2 is the "Marked Retrieve" This is when an item gets dropped in the water about 50 feet from the shore, I'm not supposed to see it drop. The item could be a boat cushion or a life jacket. Dad will point it out to me and when he says "GO" I am released to get the item and return it again to dad's hand. A little more difficult but I think I can do it. Exercise 3 oh I like exercise 3 its "Tow the Boat" I sit at he shore with dad and 75 feet from shore is a boat. The person in the boat attracts my attention by calling and tossing a bumper that is attached to the boat into the water. When dad tells me I swim out and grab the bumper and return to shore. Again I must give the rope to dad's hand. Exercise 4 is the hardest one for me and I'm still trying to get this one down. It's "Take a Line" naturally I like to bring things in from the water, it's really hard for me to grasp the concept of taking something out to the water, but mom is hoping with lots of practice that I will figure this one out. I have to take a 75 foot floating line out to someone in the water that is 50 feet away from me. The person that I take the line to has to be a stranger, and I'm not real keen about going to strangers. Something that I was told when I was younger, never talk to strangers. The exercise is complete when the stranger has hold of the line. And finally exercise 5 is "Swim with Handler" I love swimming with my dad so I think I can nail this one too. Dad and I will wait at the shore until instucted to wade into the water for a swim. We will swim out about 20 feet and then turn to the shore at which time dad hitches a ride and I tow him into shore. Once I am able to walk dad will stand up and we walk to the shore together. And thats it, once I complete all 5 exercises I pass the test and am awarded the title of "WD" Water Dog. So what do you think, can I do it? You bet! I just need alot of practice and I'm going to ace this test! Wish be luck! I'll keep you posted on my progress until then. Gizzy

Water Training

2009-06-29T16:24:00.000-07:00

Every Saturday our Newfie club puts on Water Rescue Training. It's so much fun. We all gather at Shawnigan Lake and we have 2 hours of endless fun. We start off doing some dry land training, obedience kinda stuff. Then it's into the water. We have 3 separate beach areas as well as a dock for jumping off of. I had never jumped off a dock before, it was a little scary at first but I finally made the plunge and went in over my head. Dad threw my orange buoy in and I jumped in after it, then dad jumped in to swim with me to the shore. I gotta tell ya it was soooo much fun!!! but boy was I tired afterwards! I live for Saturday mornings!! Gizzy

Gizmo Passes the Test!!!

2009-06-15T20:45:00.000-07:00

So mom and dad have been doing alot of training with me, and I wasn't too sure where we were going with it. Other than the fact that I've been getting a whole lot of yummy treats when I do what they ask me. These treats are very very special mom calls them "Cinnamircles" and I love them!!!

But it finally hit me. The other night we were out and I had to be on my best behaviour, there was alot of other dogs there as well. Dad took me through a series of different experiences, like meeting a stranger, letting that stranger pat me, comb me.

I then had to walk thru a bit of a course where the Evaluator gets you to turn in different directions, slow down, speed up and halt when told to.

I had to walk through a group of strangers, do my down and stay ( I like my down and stay) come when called, walk by some kind of distraction, walk through a door, and you know you never walk through first, always let your mom or dad go first, just in case there is something on the other side your not sure of. Had a little play session with dad and then settle down, (that was easy) then get left alone with a stranger for 3 minutes...all of this without relieving myself, which I was very proud not to do. Some of the other dogs didn't pass because they had to relieve themselves. But dad made sure we looked after that before the exam.

So in the end I passed and got this really cool looking rosette, got my picture taken and got letters at the end of my name. It's official, I'm now "CH Mainsail's Blackbeary Express CGN"...which stands for Canine Good Neighbour!

I'm not sure whats in store for me yet, but I'm thinking it might have something to do with either water or carts. Just no rest!

My life is never boring, well except when mom and dad go to work.

Gizzy

Gizmo gets his first Group Placement

2009-06-13T21:11:00.000-07:00

Mom is just so excited, and I really don't know what all the fuss is about. She spends hours washing, drying, combing and clipping me, which I endure just to keep her happy and for what? A couple minutes in the ring, where I'm looked at and touched in the most inappropriate places by some strange person!
But today was different. I didn't just get one turn in the ring, I was invited back again, this time with various types of dogs, not just the newfies. It was all so new to me, I can remember this happening once before when I was a young lad, but that was awhile ago.
I had quite a cheering committee, whenever I went around the ring I could hear them clapping and hooting for me, that was cool!
Then we are all lined up and the judge starts picking dogs and putting them in a different line, and I was one of them!!!

We do one more lap around the ring and more clapping and cheering and the next thing I know dad has this big white rossette in his hands for moi being 4th in the Working Group!

When we came out of the ring there was a bunch of hugging and more cheering, and there she was, my girlfriend Olive, who was ringside watching the whole thing! She is such a sweet young girl, and she gets me going everytime she comes near. We got to play around a bit until dad said I wasn't allowed to climb on her....he spoiled my fun!

All in all it was a very good day despite the problems dad had with the truck on the way to the show. But we got that fixed on our way home. With a side trip to Dairy Queen for an ice cream cone....yummy!!

After a big dinner I was so ready for a sleep! Until next weekend when rumour has it they have me in another show, this time its for 3 days!!!...oh the horror of it all!

Gizzy

Oh I have been one busy boy!

2009-06-12T15:08:00.001-07:00

Mom and dad are on vacation and they are keeping me soooo busy! I've had no time for napping. First of all we got some great company from Germany. Jutta and Jurgen, I wasn't too sure of them at first but after a few days it was like they belonged here! We headed up to my most favorite place in the whole world, can you guess...yup Hornby Island. Jutta and Jurgen just loved it as well. They were wondering where all the people were. We spent alot of time at the beach and we were pretty much the only ones there!

Well besides the eagles, which there was alot of!

I met alot of people on the ferries as well as at the store. Hornby has 2 stores one of which is the Co-op, and that is where most people do their shopping.

These three girls were camping and we pretty much fell in love with each other. They asked if they could take me back to their campsite....hahaha mom said sure! But that never happened.
We made it back home from Hornby just in time to go to water training. Jutta and Jurgen had never seen it done before. There was 8 of us newfie types and we did dry land training. We practiced take, hold and release with all kinds of objects like buoys, life jackets, rope...you name it, if it fit in our mouth we were working with it! Then we did a bit of obedience training, heeling, turning, long stays and coming when called. Our next training session should see us in the water! I can't wait, cause mom and dad have been practicing alot with me in the water, this dry land stuff is well for hangashores...(oops sorry Satch)

We took Jutta and Jurgen to the airport a couple days later to see them off. Again I met alot of people there. Mom took me inside even tho the sign said "No dogs Allowed", but hey who's the dog?

Now I'm getting ready for a dog show this weekend. I got to go swimming this morning, and a big bath and mom put all this goopey stuff in my coat that makes me smell pretty...hey mom I'm a boy, I'm not supposed to smell pretty!

And now its time for me to have a well deserved rest. If you feel the ground shake don't worry it's just me snoring!

Thanks for reading
Your friend Gizmo

Happy Birthday Satch!!

2009-05-25T04:06:00.001-07:00

It's Satchie's Birthday today! He turns 5, he has finally caught up to me! Wishing you a very HAPPY DAY Satch! Have lotsa fun, do your favorite thing...go swimming!!!

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Gizzy went to School

2009-05-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Mom took me to school on Friday for show and tell. I got to go
to 2 classrooms and visit with all the kids. It was alot of fun, but a bit
overwhelming. Jake and Nevada both had to read a bit of history about
me, and what we were bred for. They were very interested
in my webbed feet, they all had to check them out. There were kids everywhere and they all wanted to say hi to me.
Which was ok but were they noisey. Jake took me around his class to
meet each one of his classmate. They all really liked me, which made
me feel good. The next class I went to was Nevada's, she is 2 years
younger than Jake, and at one time was so afraid of me she would
cry everytime I was around. But now she has no problems, she even
introduced me!

I was so tired after all that excitement. I slept all the way home.
Mom says she was really proud of me, and that I was soo good for
not scaring any of the kids. Scare kids..me...why would I do that?

Gizzy

Why all the Bother, this Dog Show World?

2009-05-10T16:38:00.000-07:00

We just spent 4 days dog showing. The competition was very strong with
19 of us on Saturday and 18 on Sunday. Mom says I'm Special now, what does
that mean? I thought I was always special. Anyway I wasn't the only one Special
at this show. There was 9 of us so called "Special" types.

All of this grooming is very tiring. I get so bored with it, I would much rather be swimming or truck riding or bush wacking.

As you can see I get very excited waiting for my turn in the ring. It seems we wait forever for our turn, and then the judge does all this touchy feely stuff, which I have never been able to understand. Dad and I run around the ring following all the other dogs, its ok if its a girl in front of me, I like chasing after the girls!

When its all over I'm ready for the ride home and a good long nap. After we stop for Ice cream

of course!

Mom says I can go back to being a normal dog for a couple weeks and then its back for another show. I'm hoping I can convince her to let me go swimming!

Gizzy Watched his First Draft Test

2009-04-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

Gizzy was a spectator at his first Draft Test. It was all so very interesting. The first part of the test shows control of your dog. You go thru different steps of walking, halting, walking fast, walking slow turning right, left and full turn around. The whole time your dog is off leash and must stay beside you.

Then the dog has to do a 1 minute stand stay while the handler is about 6 feet away. One dog stood for about 45 seconds then decided to sit down, so he didn't pass. You get only one try at it!

Next you are with a group of dogs for a 3 minute down stay, if your dog gets up its a fail, again only one chance.

Then its on the the Carting Exercises, the handler must put the harness on the dog and hitch the dog to the cart, they are judged on the handler's skill as well as the the willingness of the dog.

Once that is complete the judge has them go through some manoeuvring excercises. The team must go forward, make left and right turns, halt, change the pace, go slow and speed up. Then its the figure 8. The judge will direct the handler to manoeuvre through a figure 8 course.

The carting exercise ends with the backup. The dog must be backed up while hitched for a distance of at least 4 feet. Both the dog and cart must move backwards.

After the carting exercises the field work begins. This test takes place on natural terrain, with sloping land, boulders, high grass and trees providing natural obstacles.

The handler must load the cart with 40-60lbs of weight and secure it in the cart. The dog will halt on command and stand quietly to be loaded. The judges will determine that the load is safe and secure before proceeding with the Hauling Exercise, the judge will also evaluate the load
On command from the judge, the dog and handler will move forward through a variety of terrain that includes both going up and down gentle hills as well as both left and right turns and 180 degree turn. The dog and handler will proceed at a good working pace for approximately 650 feet back to the starting point. On command from the judge the dog and handler will halt.

The dog will stand quietly to be unloaded and unhitched. Exercise finishes when dog is unhitched.
Once the dog and handler pass all of the above tests the dog is then awarded his DD (Draft Dog).
And mom and dad want me to do all this! I get tired just watching, but it was alot of fun. I even got fitted for my new harness. It sounds like I will be doing alot of practicing to be as good as the dogs that were there today.

I'll keep you posted.....Gizzy

Gizzy Goes Carting....

2009-03-30T14:56:00.001-07:00

Well mom finally got her way. She has been wanting to make a working dog out of me for along time, and I have been resisting. But on Sunday we all went to a Carting Clinic that the Newf and Berner Clubs put on. It was a beautiful sunny day and the turnout was great....mom called it Newfie Heaven!!!

We started off just kinda sniffing around the carts. Then mom went on a hunt to find a harness for me. She kept trying harness after harness but none would fit my slim build, until way down at the bottom out comes this nice leather harness, dad adjusted all the buckles on it and surprise it fit me! So we walk around to make sure everything feels ok with the harness and nothing bugs me. Next dad brings this cart up to me and throws some treats in it so I sniff around and find them, he picks the cart up and we walk around with it for awhile. Every once in a while he hits me with it, I just kinda looked at him "watch your driving dad!"

I had to show everyone how good I was at backing up. Dad taught me how to back up a long time ago, so that part was easy.

Then the cart gets attached to me, and now they want me to walk with it, I said "no way" get me outta here! So they undo everything and we walk around a bit. Then they attach the cart again and I take a few steps, then they undo it all again, we did this about 5-6 times and in the end it was ok, but the cart was too small for me and kept digging into my shoulder. So dad mentioned something about having to build one for me.

I met alot of other newfies, this is a picture of Chris and her boy Chevy. Chevy is from Saskatchewan. he did really well with the carting, but his mom has been practicing with him.

But I gotta tell you the best part of the whole day was at the end. This really hot Landseer comes strutting by and gives moi a little wiggle of her butt. She was drop dead gorgeous. We goofed around for a bit and everyone was laughing at us, but hey it wasn't funny!.. I wanted her and she wanted me but the almighty leash held us at bay. We both tried to break free but dad and a firm grip on me and her mom had even a firmer grip on her!

It was a really tiring day, no resting for us working dogs. When we got home it was dinner and lights out.

But I know thats not the end of my carting days, cause mom and dad were talking about getting my own harness and cart.

I think I would much rather spend time with the girls!!!

Gizzy

Gizzy Wins in USA!

2009-03-23T08:07:00.000-07:00

It all started with a drive to the ferry in Victoria, and and hour and a half later we were in Port Angeles. We got to stop at one of my favorite Pet Stores "Best Friends Pet Store" in Sequim, where mom and dad loaded up on a bunch of stuff for moi, and the owner Auntie Hope let me in her store to check out anything I wanted!
We finally arrived at our hotel in Bremerton, where the smells wow, there were so many dogs staying there, it was heaven, right on the beach with a beautiful walk on the promenade. We had a deck on our room that I was able to hang out on, it was the first time I had ever been in an elevator, the floor was moving, it was pretty freaky, but the stairs were just too much, going up them was ok but I couldn't come down those stairs, so I went for rides in the elevator.
On Saturday our show time was at 1040, but we went early so we could watch Auntie Terri show Haley her gorgeous Belgian, she is just 4 points away from her American Championship and we think she got 2 points on Saturday, and one on Sunday. She is a very pretty girl, and I got to hang out with her lots.

Then it was onto the grooming area where I endured all of the pampering that mom and dad felt I needed. Thats Auntie Barb trimming my coat. Then dad gets all decked out in his suit and its Show Time. I got 2 ribbons, First for Open Dog and a Purple and White striped one for RWD (Reserve Winners Dog) kinda like runner up in a beauty contest.

Jackie who is from Topmast was also with us, she is beautiful!!! And boy did she smell good! Her mom Auntie Barb showed my mom how to make me look even more handsome! Jackie won on Saturday, and showed so well on Sunday. She is a very busy girl and hard to keep up to!

Thats my dad in behind me on the table. He's making sure I won't jump off. Is he crazy, I would never jump from that far up!

On Sunday well its back to do it all over again...the pampering and blowing, and dad getting all dressed up again, and back in the ring. This time I got 3 ribbons, First for Open Dog, then for Winners and a Blue and White striped one for Best of Winners. Woohoo!!! We had no time to celebrate because we had to race to catch our ferry home and made it just in time. I didn't get my picture taken or and special treats till I got home.

The best part about coming home is sleeping in my own bed again. I was soooo tired after all that travelling and hard work that I just curled up and went to sleep.

Gizzy would like to thank Auntie Barb, Auntie Terri , Auntie Del, Auntie Val and of course Uncle Steve for their help, support and encouragement, before during and after the show!

I'm sure once I'm all rested I'll be ready to do it all over again. Its so much fun meeting all those other dogs!
When's the next show?
Gizzy

Today Is My Birthday!!

2009-03-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

Mom just can't believe that I'm 5 already. Yup thats 35 in newfie years! Mom says I have come such a long way, I'm just not sure if that is a good thing. Well ok so I have grown a little in the last 5 years, and I am a wee bit heavier than I was when she got me off the airplane, I was 60lbs when I arrived at my new home and 3 months old. Now I'm 180lbs and mom can no longer carry me around. Although she does lift me in and out of the truck.

Satchie and Andrew's dad, my Uncle Steve -- the greatest guy in the whole world (sorry Dad) -- made me this great video, and I thank him so much for the warm Birthday wishes.

My vet Dr. Pam says I'm entering into my senior years. I think its more mature years myself.

For now it's time for a well deserved nap.

Gizmo

Going to America!

2009-03-13T17:12:00.000-07:00

Yup my mom and dad are taking me to the USA for my first dog show there. Its in Bremerton, oh we have such a long drive ahead of us. Not to mention all the primping that I am going through at the moment. Mom and dad have washed me every week for the last 4 weeks, and mom says I have to have one more washing before we go. The torture of it all, having to endure all the brushing and washing and clipping....for what.....2 minutes in the ring where some stranger feels me all over....I mean all over in places only my vet Pam touches me! I like Dr. Pam! But I also like Del and thats her doing all the trimming so that I will look so handsome. She does such a good job!

We get to stay in a hotel again, and eat out every night. Thats the good part. And we get to meet lots of cool newfie people.

Wish us luck!!

Gizmo

Irish Spotted Newfoundland Society

2009-03-06T06:32:00.000-08:00

Satchie, our founder

Satch, with the most amazing newfie, Jack WRD.

Satchie came up with this great idea to start our own club. On St Patricks day (1 day before my birthday!) we are launching the ISNS "Irish Spotted Newfoundland Society" Its for all of us so called "mismarked" newfies, can you believe that some people call us that!!! Anyway we are on the hunt for members, because as you all know membership has its privileges! If you are interested leave a comment on my blog or Satchie's and we will get back to you. We are looking for pictures pictures pictures, and of course stories lots of them!

Pipelines Beyond the Sea "Rebus" Breeder: Cindy Williams Pipeline Newfoundland, he is also my 1/2 bro.

You gotta be cool to belong to ISNS

This was in Medford Oregon, where I was awarded VIP from the hotel that we stayed in ah..."Very Important Pet"

So send us your pictures and stories and we will be able to update our facebooks and blogs.

What a great idea, Thanks Uncle Steve!!!

Gizzy

We went on a hike today!

2009-02-20T06:19:00.000-08:00

Mom took me on a long hike today, I knew we were in for it cause she packed a bag that had some treats for me and a big bottle of water. It was a nice sunny day, so we set out walking in the bush, mom kept going down trails and turning around saying ooopps wrong way. Dad was working so we didn't really have any direction. I was getting a little worried that we might not find our way back, so kept turning around to see where we came from.

Finally mom found the right trail the sign posted on the tree said "Trans Canada Trail" the next thing I know we are crossing this big suspension bridge with the water rushing below us. I could have really used a swim right about then but we were way too high! Once across the bridge there was a map that mom stopped to read, we decided we would keep going and try and find one of the lakes that she saw on the map.

Well so much for that, we could only go so far and then it was there....right before my eyes...SNOW!! mom just had her runners on, it didn't matter to me I could have kept going, but she chickened out and said we had to go back. It was ok though because I was getting pretty tired. We had already hiked for an hour and a half, and we had to do the same to get back to the truck.

When we got home I was so tired I drank a big drink out of the hose and then just crashed. Mom said I was a muddy mess, but it didn't matter to me, I was so tired.
It was alot of fun, but I still wish I could have gone for a swim! Oh well summers on its way!
Gizzy

Look What my Dad Made

2009-02-01T18:38:00.001-08:00

My dad is very talented, he made these newfie cutouts! The ones above are made out of stainless steel and mirror polished. He cuts them out at work and brings them home and spends hours polishing them.

The rest that you see are finished with a powder coating, that will last a lifetime. Can you imagine a newfie that lasts a lifetime!!!

He put a stake on this one so you can stick it in the ground in your garden.

This one he painted the name on and put a hole in the top so that it can be hung on a wall. This is the biggest one he has made so far. It measures 36" from tip of tail to tip of nose. He has made all sizes from 6 inches to this one.

He also made one for our gate at the end of our driveway. He's put our house number on it.

Mom wants him to make a life size one for her, that she can put in her garden. I don't get it, she won't let me in her garden but she wants a newfie that dad made in her garden.

He makes these as a fundrasier for our Local Newfoundland Club.

I love my dad...

Gizmo

Yippee...She came Back!!

2009-01-27T15:34:00.000-08:00

My mom left us...she went away for the weekend to go watch some other newfies at a dog show, and didn't take us with her. Talk about "The Horror of it All" We were left to do everything. I waited every day by the gate for mom to come home and night after night dad would call me into the house. I slept right by her chair thinking that she would appear, but noooooo, she was too busy hanging out with Satchel and Andrew. She thinks I don't know, but I could smell them. I was just so glad when she came home and didn't have them with her!!... Mom also got to visit with alot of the Karazan's, she finally got to meet the Handsome Hummer, and the two sweetest girls Sophie and Bella, and she watched Karazan's Meet the Press "Preston" take BOB and go on to compete in the group. Now he's a pro!!! Here he is before he goes in the ring. But dad and I had a really good time, dad took me with him everywhere, to the dog park, shopping and he even took me up to see his mom, which is a long drive from our house, but we made lotsa stops along the way, so I got to get out of the truck lots. We were supposed to have a play date with Boomer, but he had to go the the groomers. His first experience, but dad says he did really well, got all washed and dried and fluffed. We are still waiting to see pictures of him. I waited and waited for mom to come home...night after night.

This is Satchel and Andrew, and I heard mom tell dad that if they would have fit in her suitcase she would have brought them home with her......Whew...lucky she only had a small suitcase!!! It's looking like she is having a pretty good time, and it doesn't even look like she is missing us!!!

Here is Androol lapping up a bucket of water and giving his brother a taste.

And then they got all groomed up and entered the show. And our buddy Satchel won Winners Dog, he was so handsome mom said, he looked great!!!

This is Ch. Karazan's H2 "Hummer". My mom got to look after Hummer while his mom Claire was showing one of the Karazan girls. My mom was pretty happy that Claire picked her to look after him. Hummer is a pretty big boy, he weighs 165lbs. and is about as tall as me.

Mom did bring me back a couple stuffies, Uncle Steve sent one of them and I love the donkey, Thanks Uncle Steve!!!
I am so glad my mom came home, now things are back to normal.
Giz

Bro Danko and Me

2009-01-22T17:15:00.000-08:00

This is mom's favorite picture of moi...isn't it cute!!! She says I have a
big head!!!

ok you guys don't break the chain....let's stick together

As you can see Danko loves the snow as much as me....but I don't see a rain coat on him......

Well it happened, the mom's talked...and Danko's mom sent some pictures to us. This one is of moi and my brother Danko. Danko weighs in at 173lbs today and mom says I'm about 175, so we are pretty close in size. Who would have thought that these 2 gorgeous little puppies would grow into such handsome boys like us.

Here is Danko, isn't he a cutie, he has just a little white on his chest, my mom and dad didn't see me when I was this small, so it was really special that Danko's mom Dori sent us these pictures. Now mom and dad can see how cute I was. Thanks Auntie Dori for all the pictures you sent and mom says if you would like to share more with us we would love to see them!!! Maybe some day we'll meet, you don't live that far away from me.

I feels so good to have finally found one of my litter mates.

Giz

Hey "Danko" where are you?

2009-01-16T16:56:00.000-08:00

Oh I am just so excited, my mom and dad have been trying to find some of my litter mates and now one has found me!!! Please Danko can you get your mom to contact my mom and dad, they would like to compare notes with you. Do you know of any of our other litter mates? Do you have a blog that we can share as well.

Thank you so much for commenting on my blog. How did you find me? I sure like your antlers!!! Have you seen any of my youtube videos?
We hope to hear from you soon Danko so get your mom on it.
Take Care
Gizzy

The day "Boomer" came to town

2009-01-16T16:27:00.001-08:00

Here is Boomer just arriving at our house, he is a little unsure about getting out of his crate, mom says its because of me, I'm so big that I scare the poor guy.

Mom said he sat on her lap all the way over on the ferry. He must have been really comfortable cause I have sat on mom's lap before and she gives the best ear scratches.

Mom held Boomer for one more time before passing him off to his new mom Tami. Tami will be taking him home to Alesha and Andrew who have no idea they were getting a new puppy. So lotsa surprises today. My mom just loves surprises.

Ok so I wasn't the most excited one when Boomer came to my house, I'm just not used to having some competition around. Even tho mom and dad said it was only for a short time. You see Boomer is from Sun City California, and he flew here from Los Angeles yesterday and stayed with us before he went to his new home. He has a new mom and dad and 2 kids to look after him. I know he will have a great life. I must admit he is a really cute puppy. See how he looks like me.

Here he is with his new mom. She was so excited to see him. You see mom and dad surprised her, Boomer wasn't supposed to arrive until next week, but mom pulled a few strings and with the help of Auntie Sheila who drove Boomer all the way from Sun City to Los Angeles he arrived a few days early. Auntie Sheila is where Boomer came from, his mom Cricket and dad Thunder are 2 newfies who live with her. This was the first litter for Cricket and she did a pretty darn good job.

I know life in Boomer's world will be good and I know he will be just as spoiled as me. We are going to have lotsa play dates together, and Boomer is going to come to class with me.
Won't you all join me in welcoming Boomer to Canada and to his new family.
See you soon buddy!
Gizzy

Look What I Found on the Beach Today "Update"

2009-01-10T18:12:00.000-08:00

We received a call from the Vancouver Aquarium. "Elliott" is between 3-5 months old, is a female and is suffering an infection. If Gizzy hadn't of rescued her, she may not be with us today. The Aquarium is keeping her for 6-8 weeks while she heals, and then she will be released back into the great big sea. Thank you to the Vancouver Aquarium for your great response in helping Elliott!!!

Mom and Dad took me to the beach today for our daily beachcombing, and something smelled different. It only took me a minute to sniff it out. I really wanted to get closer but dad said I would scare the poor thing. It was a Seal Pup abandoned by it's mommy. The poor little guy was in alot of trouble, he could hardly lift his head. I just knew we had to do something, so I kept looking at dad and sniffing towards the seal. We came home and dad got his camera and we went back and took pictures. Dad emailed the pictures to the Vancouver Aquarium, he made a couple phone calls and we went back to the beach to meet a lady who took the seal with her. Dad said she was going to send it to Vancouver Aquarium and they would look after it. It was a very exciting day.

We named him "Elliott" thats the name of the beach we go to. We said good bye and I hope that he gets as well looked after as I do. Now its time for a rest, I'm exhausted!!

Raingear Update

2009-01-06T10:56:00.000-08:00

Ok so she made me wear it out...I mean out in public!!! It was a little hard to get used to at first, but after I discovered I could do all the things that a guy likes to do...it was....well...ok..I guess.

I tried to run away from it at first but it wouldn't leave me. So then I just went with it. I'm still thinking its a wee bit on the tight side for my svelt figure, but mom says she can fix that. Great....

Anyway after our walk and mom took it off, I was as dry as I was before we left, all the dirt and mud was on my rainsuit!!

I ran around and shook like crazy but in the end...(don't tell anybody) I think it worked....darn it!!!

"Raingear" for a Newfie???

2008-12-30T20:25:00.000-08:00

Mom came up with this brilliant idea. A rainsuit for moi!! Can you believe it. I think she has gone a bit too far with this one. She insists that it will help in the snow with the snow balls that get caught on my legs. She also says it will make a big difference when its raining out, and that I won't get so wet and muddy. I'm just wondering who is this rainsuit for, me or her, so she doesn't have to dry me off!!! You tell me, is this the apparel that a working dog should be wearing? Let alone a newfie? Give me a break. It is so close to not fitting me, I think if I was to gain a few pounds then I would have it made!! This is enough to make me eat my dinners!

Come on you guys, I need your help here, if you tell my mom that this is totally ridiculous maybe just maybe she will give up on this idea. Hey Satch, Andrew, Rebus, Hummer, Sophie, Bella help me you guys, tell mom how silly this is!

Hey Ceasar, Thunder, Crickett, Scooter,would your mom make you wear this??? HELP!!!!

Uncle Steve says he is going to call Animal Care and Control, at least he is on my side!!

Soup Kitchen for Pets

2008-12-28T08:05:00.000-08:00

Berlin opens soup kitchen for pets
Posted Sun Dec 28, 2008 12:22pm AEDT

The soup kitchen in Berlin provides pets of the homeless and unemployed with a free meal. (Reuters: Pawel Kopczynski)
In a sign of the times in Europe's biggest economy, poodles, terriers and sheep dogs are queuing up for rations at Berlin's first soup kitchen for pets.
The venue is a disused night school in the former communist east Berlin, where the smell of straw, dry food and wet dog lingers in the air as a Jack Russell in a chequered coat waddles past on its way to the kibbles line for biscuits.
Pensioners and those on the dole qualify for the free pet food buffet which opened in the district of Treptow in mid-October, allowing those with no disposable income the chance to hold on to their beloved dogs and cats.
"We've already signed up nearly 400 people and our stocks are dwindling fast. Today cat owners are just getting a single tin each," said Julia Raasch, who heads the capital's sole animal soup kitchen, run by Tiertafel (Animal Dining Table), a pet welfare association.
Berlin, where unemployment hovers around 13 per cent, has some 100,000 registered dogs, many of them owned by pensioners.
The soup kitchen also caters to other pets including cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and budgerigars. Twelve volunteers hand out food and advice, while keeping an eye on the health of the animals.
Tiertafel, launched two years ago, now runs 19 soup kitchens across the country.
With the looming prospect of the longest and deepest recession in Germany since World War II, the group is planning on opening 30 more.
Claudia Hollm, who owns three dogs herself, said she came up with the idea of pet soup kitchens after seeing a television report about a family having to give their dog to an animal rescue centre after the father was made redundant.
"The dog didn't understand what was going on. All the family was upset and we just thought - it just can't be that for the sake of 30 or 40 euros ($62-$83) they've got to turn their pet out," she said.
"Everyday we see people who can't keep their pets anymore because of the cost," according to Evamarie Koenig, a spokeswoman for Berlin's central animal rescue centre.
The facility takes in more than 10,000 animals each year, with one in three handed over by owners who say they can no longer look after them, she added.
Pet proof
At the Treptow soup kitchen, animal owners must initially turn up with their pet in order to register. And they must show proof the pet has been vaccinated.
They must also prove financial need by showing their welfare papers, unemployment registration or pension card.
"It's easy for someone to go from middle-income wage earner to someone on Hartz IV," Ms Hollm said, referring to the state allocation granted to people on long-term welfare which is worth about 350 euros ($723) a month.
Poverty further isolates people who sometimes must rely on their pet for their sole company, Ms Holm said.
"Half our customers are old people for whom a cat or dog is their last social link," she said.
It also quickly became obvious that people needed more than just a tin of animal food, Ms Hollm added, pointing to the need to make sure pets stay healthy.
During the holiday season, the association called for extra donations so that volunteers could lay out bones, pigs' ears, toy mice and scratching posts under the Christmas trees set up in each of its soup kitchens.

Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!

2008-12-14T15:46:00.000-08:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year!! Well I think so anyway! But then again I don't have to drive in it. My chauffeurs do that! The snow fell fast and furious the other day. When I went outside it was up to my armpits! It was so much fun. I helped mom make snow angels. I chased dad all over and knocked him down.

I really like the taste of snow, I could eat it all day! Hey Rebus, have you been playing out in the snow lots too. Do you get lotsa snowballs, the snowballs drive mom and dad crazy trying to get them off me, I get a little impatient waiting for them and once they are all gone, I'm ready to go back in the snow again. Maybe you could get your mom too make snow angels to Reb!!

One day my buddies Satch and Androol are going to come for a visit and we'll have so much fun! I just know Satch would love the snow way more than he loves to go swimming. His Auntie Terri is going to give him lessons on water rescue this summer. I can't wait to see some video of that! But until then I think I'll just hang out in the snow.

After all my playing in the snow I am so pooped out, I do like to come inside for a little R and R by the fire to warm up a bit.

Karazan Giacomo Poochini (Jack) Extraordinaire

2008-12-01T03:57:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while you meet or read about someone that exemplifies the true meaning of a newife, mom just finished reading a story to me about an amazing newfie named Jack. Jack was one boy that all newfies would aspire to be like, and I would have loved to have met him. I think we would have had a great time at the beach. Jack loves the water as much as I do. I am sure he could have taught me a thing or two. Jack is no longer with us but his legacy lives on. One day I will meet him at the Rainbow Bridge. Born August 24, 1999 and passed away on December 8, 2006.

Below is the newspaper writeup of Jack's amazing accomplishment.

SAN FRANCISCO
Ruff crossing: Alcatraz swim a canine first
Dog places 72nd, ahead of hundreds in annual race
Julian Guthrie, Chronicle Staff Writer

Sunday, July 31, 2005

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Early Saturday morning, a Newfoundland named Jack made history when he jumped from a boat near Alcatraz into the choppy bay and swam 1.2 miles to the San Francisco shoreline.

He was the only dog among more than 500 swimmers who took part in the South End Rowing Club's 10th annual Alcatraz Invitational. Dog-paddling his way toward the front of the pack, Jack came in 72nd overall, leaving some serious swimmers seriously chagrined. His time was 41 minutes and 45 seconds.

Reaching the shoreline next to the Hyde Street Pier to chants of "Jack! Jack! Jack!" the 6-year-old, 160 pound Newfoundland, appeared to take his celebrity in stride. He trotted onto terra firma, evaded a lady trying to put a medal around his neck, and let out a full-body, water-flying shake. He proceeded to roll in the sand and make a quick detour to the nearest grassy area where he chewed on a large piece of driftwood he had taken in along the way.

His tail was wagging. The swim was behind him. His bounty was in front of him.

Jack made the swim in the frigid waters with his human dad, born-and-raised San Franciscan Steve Sayad. The two live in Sausalito and trained for the event swimming 2 miles twice a week at Aquatic Park. They also bodysurf together, and Jack is known for doing sprints every day -- generally after tennis balls. Before a big swim, Jack eats scrambled eggs. He has a weakness for carbohydrates, particularly bread.

"It was colder and rougher than we thought it would be," Sayad said after the race. "Jack amazed me. He was very focused. He started out really fast. I was trying to slow him down. He increased his pace to stay with the pack."

Entering Jack in the invitational was motivated by fun -- and business. Sayad, an attorney, represents a company called WiggleWireless that delivers text messages and news to cell phones. Subscribers to the service were able to receive live updates on Jack's progress. A portion of the money raised went to Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Updates from Jack -- a kind of dog blog -- ranged from, "I checked into the Hyatt and took a drink from the toilet bowl," to "I'm standing in line for the Alcatraz swim. I don't see any other dogs." Several messages were sent mid-race. One read, "The water is ruff. I mean ruff-ruff."

Bill Wygant, president of the South End Rowing Club, which was established in 1873 and draws a hearty group that prides itself on swimming without wetsuits, said he was happy to allow a dog into the race. It was a first, he said, but he hopes not the last.

"This swim is about personal challenge," Wygant said. "Whether you are dog or human, it's whatever you can achieve that counts."

Lynne Cox, an open-water swimmer who has broken men's and women's records for swimming the English Channel and was the first person to swim between Alaska and the Soviet Union, was on hand to support the event. She said when she met Sayad, she asked whether swimming in the race was something Jack truly wanted to do.

"He said Jack would be upset if he saw him swimming and he couldn't swim, " Cox said. "I have a yellow Lab at home. Maybe next year the club will have a dog category."

Newfoundlands are renowned for the swimming and life-saving abilities, and Sayad has owned "Newfies" since he was a child. "'Jack is the king of Newfie-swimmers", he quipped with a smile of pride.

By midmorning, as swimmers continued to stream onto the beach in front of the rowing club, Jack began to unwind. He rolled onto his back, welcoming any and all congratulatory belly rubs.

Jack you were the best of the best!!!... You are truely missed. May you rest in peace my friend.

Beauty without Vanity,
Strength without Insolence,
Courage without Ferocity,
And all the Virtues of Man without his Vices.

Your buddy Gizmo

Life on Hornby Island

2008-11-15T19:34:00.000-08:00

We just came back from four days on Hornby Island...what a paradise!!! Mom and Dad seem so much more relaxed when we are there. They take me for long walks at Heliwell Park, its so beautiful, you can see the seals and sealions. They sure are big and make alot of noise, I thought they might need some help so I was ready to jump in and save them. We went to 4 different beaches and no one was on any of them. Not even the nudie beach....I think it was too cold, but perfect temperature for us newfies. You can run forever on the beaches, pure sand and longer than you can bark.

It takes two ferry rides to get there and I love going through the toll booth, they always have cookies for me, and not just one....I usually get extra. Then on the ferry all kinds of people talk to me and comment on how big my head is!! Whats with that, have they never seen a newfie before?

I get to go wherever I want in the house except I'm not much for going up the stairs, so I keep watch at night when mom and dad go to bed, I hang out right at the bottom of the stairs, keeping guard. Although I'm not sure what I'm guarding against. Dad's parents bought 5 acres in 1959 and paid $1000.00 for it. It had been a summer paradise for them, until his parents retired in 1977 and made Hornby thier permanent home. We are so lucky to have this special spot to call our home away from home....Thanks Grand dad!!!

I never have any trouble eating my dinners on Hornby, probably because I keep so busy during the day. Its the kinda place where everyone knows each other and will help you if you need it but at the same time will let you do your own thing.

When I get home from Hornby I seem to sleep for days, mom says I snore loud, but thats because I have had so much fun. All newfies should experience Hornby at least once in their lifetime. We have lotsa room so if any of you newfies want to come for a visit just let me know, and I will show you the best time of your life!!!!

This video is of us just heading to the path that takes us to the beach....its so much fun can't you tell.

To read more about Hornby check out
www.hornbyisle.ca/index.html

Happy Birthday Dad!!

2008-11-09T13:30:00.000-08:00

Its my dad's birthday on Wednesday, and mom says he is one year closer to being older than dirt...thats 343 in newfie years!!!...yikes.... My dad is my best friend, he does all the things that I like to do. He wrestles with me, chases me, lets me chase him and I get to tackle him!! He is my favorite chew toy.

My dad taught me how to swim. And now I can rescue him if he is ever in trouble. We like to practice that in the ocean.

If I need a shoulder to lean on, its my dad's that I look for. He doesn't mind a little bit of slobber.

I know that all of you will join me in wishing my dad a happy birthday, and if I did drink I would raise my glass too, my dad does enjoy a good beer now and then.
Happy Birthday Dad!!!...you are the best!!!
Gizmo

ps...and for the record, dad has finally caught up to mom in being one year closer to older than dirt.....

"Gander" The Heroic Newfoundland Dog

2008-10-29T19:10:00.000-07:00

Newfoundland dogs are renown for their friendliness, love of children and for their rescuing abilities. Since the breed was developed in Newfoundland over a hundred years ago, there have been many stories told of Newfoundlands saving passengers from sinking ships and rescuing children in trouble while playing in their favourite swimming holes. But there is one Newfoundland that showed bravery and loyalty beyond what is commonly credited to the breed. His name was Gander and he gave his life protecting Canadian and other Commonwealth soldiers on the beaches of Hong Kong Island during World War II.

In 1940, Gander was the family pet of Rod Hayden, a resident of the town of Gander in Newfoundland. The dog's name at that time was Pal. He was well known in the town, but often mistaken as a bear by pilots landing at the airport. This gentle giant was loved by the neighbourhood children who used him to tow their sleds during winter. One day, while greeting a group of children, Pal's paw accidentally scratched the face of a six year old. Concerned that the dog might have to be "put down", Mr. Hayden gave Pal to the 1 st Battalion of the Royal Rifles of Canada as a mascot. His new owners called him Gander, after the military base they were responsible for protecting during the war.

Gander and the Royal Rifles were sent to Hong Kong Island in 1941 where they joined other Commonwealth troops to defend the island against attacks by the Japanese. During the Battle of the Lye Mun, Gander displayed great bravery protecting his "newfound" friends. When the Japanese landed near the Canadian section of the beach, Gander greeted the enemy with threatening barks and attempts at biting their legs. On another occasion as Japanese troops were nearing a group of wounded Canadian soldiers, Gander surprised the enemy by charging them. For some reason, the Japanese were unwilling to shoot the dog. Instead, they changed their route and the lives of the wounded soldiers were saved.

Gander showed his greatest and last act of bravery and loyalty during another Japanese attack. During the battle, an enemy grenade landed near a group of Canadian soldiers. Probably out of concern for his friends, Gander grabbed the grenade in his mouth and carried it to where it would do no harm. Unfortunately, the grenade exploded in Gander's mouth, killing him instantly. He had given his life saving the lives of the Canadian soldiers.

The story of Gander's bravery, once well-known and told many times by residents of his home town, was almost forgotten. In a conversation between Mrs. Eileen Elms, who knew the dog as Pal and whose sister had been scratched by the dog, and local historian Mr. Frank Tibbo, Gander's act of bravery was mentioned. Through their efforts, Gander's story was revived and his act of bravery recognized.

Gander, the Newfoundland dog, was posthumously awarded the prestigious Dickin Medal, equivalent to the Victoria Cross given to soldiers of the British Commonwealth for their acts of bravery. Gander was awarded the medal in August, 2000 at a Hong Kong Veterans of Canada reunion in Fredericton, New Brunswick.

Bravo Gander

Beauty without Vanity, Strength without Insolence, Courage without Ferocity, And all the Virtues of Man without his Vices.

Amen,
Gizmo

CH Mainsail's Blackbeary Express

2008-10-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

My brother Rebus and I were in a dog show on the weekend. We had to wait around for our turn in the ring. I just don't get it mom spends hours and hours washing, drying, combing and clipping me and for what? A whole 60 seconds in the ring. At least this time the judges were nice to me. And boy did they smell good!
I got to go in the ring more than once this time, which made it worth it I guess. The last time in the ring I got to go in with 2 girls, Enya is a very special girl, the only time she is in the ring is the last time, and she prances around like she knows what to do. I just kinda follow along behind her.
This is Rebus and his mom waiting their turn in the ring. Rebus looked so good, he's getting the hang of it. He doesn't mind the judges touching him at all in fact it looks to me like he really enjoys it! He is such a handsome boy if I do say so. His tail is just like mine. We should have a contest to see who can carry their tail higher. Dad keeps telling me to keep it down and wacks it every once in awhile.
At he end of the show mom took our pictures. Don't we look handsome?
Mom and dad were pretty happy the last day, they said I was a "Champ" and that now I can carry my tail any way I want. Whew, that was hard work. I got to eat as many cookies as I wanted. And they even gave me some steak to eat, but I wasn't in to it.....now I'm just kinda hanging out waiting to see if any good looking girls come my way.
Hey Satchie, are there any girls up at the kennels that would be interested in a good looking Canadian boy? I know your hanging out with alot of girls right now so see if you can find one for me.
sigh....Gizzy....

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-10-08T22:12:00.000-07:00

As newfie's we have alot to be thankful for!!.. We seem to draw attention everywhere we go, and mom and dad get asked a zillion questions about us, which they answer as if it was the first time they had ever been asked. Like:

How much do I eat? (anyone that knows me, knows the answer to that one)

How much do I weigh? (173lbs today)

Do I shed much? (oh about a ton a year)

Do I slobber much? (only when I'm hot or when there is ice cream around and girls girls girls!!!)

Where do I sleep? (anywhere I want)

What's my name? (Giz, Gizzy, Gizmo, The Giz,Big Guy, Handsome, Goofball, Gizzard, Gizzimoto, Doofus)

What kind of dog am I? (I'm not a dog, I'm a Newfie!!!)

Am I tough? (mostly from younger boys, I say "Do you want to try me?")

I am thankful for all the attention, I am thankful for all my friends, like Satch, Rebus, Androol, and of course my Godfather, Uncle Steve.

But most of all I am thankful for having a mom and dad that look after me so well.

Mom came across this posting and we thought we would share it with you.

Found on Craig's list (For all the people who casually place their beloved family pets on the pages of craigslist everywhere- for whatever reasons one can imagine..... .. THESE are the people who need to read THIS!)
I have three dogs, one is 130+ lbs, he's a Komondor, loves to play, will pick up the brush when/if I drop it and give it back to me. He has a ghost we call Boo.. He likes to carry Boo around. Great with kids, protective over his family. A female Weimaraner that is 60+, very pretty, shiny coat, blue in color. Can be protective, but is generally outgoing. Can put a treat on her nose then usually catch it. Sometimes the big dog grabs it before she gets it though. A 5 lb Yorkie, he's 10 years old, and cranky. Pees in the house if he's upset, and will occasionally leave other "gifts" for you. Things that upset him are not sleeping in, rain, other dogs, other cats, not giving him enough attention, anything new in the house, when I'm upset, when I leave and don't take him, and a few other things. But he does dance for a treat and catch mice and will do agility courses. My dogs are all neutered/spayed and current on their vaccinations. They get fed holistic food, it seems expensive but is really only $1/day for all of them. That's less than a bottle of soda. My dogs are not up for adoption. I have moved 6 times in my life, including college and a divorce, they always come with. We've lived here for 4 years, and if we move, they'll go with me. I have two kids, I still have my dogs. They were here before the kids, and I took the time to teach them to be gentle to kids, even tiny babies. My little dog doesn't like kids that much, he likes them when they're sleeping. So I trained my kids to leave him alone. I don't have a job, haven't for the last three years, my job has been being a mother. I still have my dogs. I just don't buy other things I don't need. I have a 130 lb dog who needs to be groomed... I brush him twice a week, it takes less than 5 minutes a day. I don't feel bad for people who say they "don't have the time" to groom a shih tzu. It doesn't take that long.
My dogs shed, but so do I, so I think we're even. I've had dogs my whole life, and have never "suddenly" acquired a strange allergic reaction to them, nor know anyone who has, and I know a lot of people with dogs.
My dogs do not destroy my house, because I don't let them. I have two breeds that are commonly referred to as strong willed and destructive. I simply have rules and make the dogs listen. They do not eat until I tell them they can. This makes me the pack leader. I do not share my couch or bed. With the big dogs, I will not fight over where I get to sit. I do not have to lock my dogs out of the kitchen when we eat. I simply taught them they're not allowed. A flyswatter being smacked on the table has a lot of power in a dogs eyes, used with the word "out" it's amazing. I have two cats, and a leather living room set. The cats are not declawed. I simply give them other things to scratch that are acceptable. They enjoy them. I have three dogs and two cats. Sometimes they get fed up with each other. I still have them all. I just remind them this is my house, and separate them from each other for an hour then everything is okay. I have an old dog, and I got a new dog. I did not get rid of the old dog because he didn't like the new dog. An end note to all the dogs who have spent the best 3-10 years of their lives in the only home they've known to be replaced by a child, other pet, move, new job, etc. I'm so sorry. I can't imagine your heartache of being disowned by your parent who loved you for years. There was a name attached, I do not know that it was the actual person who wrote it, or whether this was written as a 'model' to remind people that they're not getting rid of a coat, but a live being.
Regardless it makes a very important point and to me at least, is worthy of sharing.

The Gizmeister

Who Eats This Stuff?

2008-09-26T19:37:00.000-07:00

My mom and dad keep trying to get me to eat these hard crunchie things that taste just terrible.

I really have to know is there any newfies out there that actually eat this stuff. They keep buying different kinds and think that I will eat it but it is the worst tasting stuff ever! Dad even tried to show me how good it was by sitting with me and eating them too!!...He even said some tasted bad and no wonder I didn't eat them. Just who does the quality control on this so called food. Its not any newfies thats for sure.

My mom thinks she is being so sneaky and buries cookies in with the kibble, but I just dig them out and eat them and leave the kibble...yuck!!!..

If there is any dog food company out there that thinks they can produce something fit for a newfie my mom and dad would really like you to let us know.

As you can see in the video not one of the 14 kinds they tried me on even came close to satisfying my hunger. And I haven't eaten for 2 days.....Its driving mom and dad crazy, but what can I do if they don't feed me something I like?

Hey Drew, Satch, Rebus...you guys getting any good food these days??

I know if I hold out long enough and look really sad, mom and dad will give me some cookies.

Meet The Karazan's

2008-09-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

In the heart of Napa Valley California lives the Karazan's. Here is an introduction to some of the most beautiful Newfies past and present.

I had the pleasure of visiting this kennel and I have to say the girls looked and smelled marvelous mind you the competition is fierce, with the likes of Paris, Gaia, Hummer, Satchel and even Puppy, those girls are well looked after!

I hope to visit the kennel again someday soon.

Is That Gizmo??

2008-09-19T10:37:00.000-07:00

Satchie and his dad were at a dog show in California, and a girl came up to them and asked "Is That Gizmo?" (Gizzy is so honoured to be mistaken for such a handsome boy)she had watched Gizzy's video's on youtube...too funny...this is dedicated to her..

Can you tell the Difference?

Click on the link below and you can tell the tail.....

Is That Gizmo

Newfie Land Rescue

2008-08-25T19:39:00.000-07:00

This is for my buddy Satch, just so you know that you don't have to go in the water to rescue!

In March 2004, Melvin Dawe of Sandy Cove, Bonavista Bay, told of Nelson, whom he met at Harbour Grace in 1948 while his ship was in dry dock. A delivery truck pulled up at a nearby building, and while the driver was inside, a small child crawled beneath his vehicle. Nelson became aware of a problem when the driver emerged and started for the truck. The vigilant dog hurried to the truck and inched his way underneath until he could get a grip on the child's clothing, then backed out, dragging the protesting youngster. Evidently, no one but the sailors and dockworkers were aware of Nelson's action - certainly not the child's parents or the driver.

But on the other hand....A Newfoundland dog is not as avid a swimmer as you might imagine and needs a good reason to go into the water. Harold MacPherson writes in the first volume of "The Book of Newfoundland" that when one of his dogs, Billy, was ten months old, he was taken along by a group who went to swim in the ocean. They failed to coax him into the waves but when MacPherson swam out some distance, yelled for help, then threw up his arms and sank, Billy howled and immediately rushed to his aid. He never again showed any reluctance to enter the water.

So Satch I think you should convince your dad to go out in the water and splash around and sink, then you can time how long it takes someone to rescue him....

Giz

Newfie Alert!

2008-08-16T15:38:00.000-07:00

Alls well that ends well...Xin Xin was found and has been returned to her very grateful owner!!!

***********************************LOST******************************************

1 year old Newfoundland

Answers to XIN XIN (sin sin)

Went Missing Aug 11th, outside Starbuck’s in Duncan. Has been in the Country 2 weeks imported from Germany. If you have seen her please call
250 746 0808

The Dog Show World

2008-08-13T16:53:00.000-07:00

We just spent the last two weekends getting up at 5 a.m. every day, going from one end of the island to another, from Campbell River to Victoria. After hours of refurbishing I had my 2 minutes of fame in the ring. Why is it those strange people want to touch and feel me all over? I mean all over!!... I just don't get it...I might have a little sniff here or there but to touch...not!!!...So I just sat down, enough is enough.

The best part was the girls, yup there was lots of them, I even tried to get close to one after the show but dad pulled me away from her. She was hot!! I also really like the Portuguese Water Dogs, they are always hanging out at the same time so I get to check them out too.

Mom told me that after last weekend I would have some time off to hang out at the beach. I would much rather be swimming instead of running around a ring, but if it makes mom and dad happy, I'll do it.

Dad keeps talking to me about my tail. I really don't get it...whats the big deal. They spend hours combing it and all they want me to do is keep it down. Nobody can see it then!

It was all very exhausting, but lotsa fun! I think its time for another nap.

Gizzy

The Newf days of Summer

2008-07-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

These are a few of my favorite things!

Hurry up and throw the stick!
Where did it go?
It doesn't get much better than this, unless of course my buddies Satch, Andrew and Rebus were here.

Hope your having a good summer!
See you at the beach

Gizmo

Bye Bye Panda....1989-2008

2008-06-28T20:36:00.001-07:00

Cat's Eulogy (With Love)
To My Mom & Dad With Love

Don’t be sad you had to end my pain

And know that you will see me once again

God’s given me a place to wait for you

And you know what?

He says He loves me too!!!

There’s lots of different critters all around

In Heaven there’s no evil to be found

So all of us just seem to get along

And Angels serenade us with their songs

People here are kind and stroke my fur

And they all seem to love it when I purr

I’m no longer sick so I am glad

Please don’t fill your days by being sad

I haven’t really gone that far away

And I’m really looking forward to the day

That we can be together up above

In this land of peace and happiness and love
- Karen Post

Good bye Pandabear...RIP sweetie..we miss you!!

"Karazan's Music of the Night"

2008-06-22T20:26:00.001-07:00

Androol, well ok Andrew's birthday is coming up this week. He's going to be 3 years old. I met him when we went to California, and he is the most sweetest gentlest boy I have ever met! He is Satchie's younger brother. Satch has taught him everything he knows......well almost everything....except...swimming maybe.... Andrew is following in his bro's paw prints and is going to be a Champ one day, he has been working really hard at the shows!! Hope you have a great day on your Bday Andrew!!! Maybe your dad will get you some ice cream instead of BBB!!!
Take Care buddy....
Love Gizzy

Gizzy and Rebus at NKC

2008-06-18T16:38:00.000-07:00

Here I am getting my picture for Winner's Dog and BOS at Nanaimo Kennel Club Dog Show Rebus and I take it easy after our hard work. Rebus is my 1/2 brother, and is only 18 months old. Dad and I have a little chat before the show. Dad is trying to convince me to keep my tail down....whatever that means. All and all it was a great day, mom even won a squeaky for me. Thank you Nanaimo Kennel Club.
Gizzy

....and the Winner is.....

2008-06-08T14:26:00.000-07:00

None other then my buddy Satchel!! Yup he did it on Saturday in Vallejo, California.
He pulled off Winners and Best of Winners!!! What a superstar!!!

Beauty without Vanity, Strength without Insolence, Courage without Ferocity,
And all the Virtues of Man without his Vices,

Satchel was perfection on Saturday he definately was on his game!!!

I'd say you are starting to fit those paws!!! Way to go!!

Gizmo

Joyeux Anniversaire à Satchel!!!

2008-05-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

My buddy Satch (his dad calls him Scoldy) turns 4 on Sunday. He is a very very special buddy. As you can see by his pictures he is one amazing boy!!

Satchel is a California boy and lives with his brother Andrew, he was born in wine country, he is a beautiful "Karazan."

Hey Satch my mom told me when I turned 4 that I have to be more mature now, do you know what that means?

I know all of you will join me in wishing Satch a very happy birthday!! Hope you get lots of presents!

All the best Satch,

Your best friend Gizmo

Gizzy Does California

2008-05-11T19:27:00.000-07:00

Wow what a trip I went on. It started out on a ferry with lots of people talking to me. I even met a whole class of students from Idaho!!

But then the drive started to get to me. I kept asking "how much further" and can we stop at another rest stop?

Mom and Dad left me for the day but boy was I in good hands. I got looked after by the best!!! This real cool dude that knew more about newfies than I do. Satchie and Andrews dad!!! He is the greatest!!! He took me for coffee and I got to hang out outside. It might look like I'm waiting for my mom and dad but actually I'm waiting for Steve to take me somewhere. Not only that I got all kinds of goodies, a new leash and collar that is the coolest!! A great big bag of snacks. oh and Mrs. P made me a custom bib...yeah I do drool a bit!

The next thing I know we are driving downtown San Francisco, I get to hang out at the really nice Italian Restaurant, so many people walk by and talk to me, some from a distance. I even got my picture taken a few times. Hummer's mom was there and she came out and met me. Hummer just won BOB on the weekend. Congratulations!!

I met Satch and Andrew up at Mrs. P's the next day. They got to hang out outside, but I was taken inside for a refurbishing, I still don't get why they didn't have to.

What was so amazing was I got groomed in the same room at the same time as The Great and Powerfull "Paris" He is just the most perfect example of a newf, if I do say...

By this time as you can see I was getting a little bit tired and all I wanted was to go home to my bed. But I endured the grooming and I did feel a whole lot better in the end.

I got to stay in some really nice hotels along the way. They didn't mind that I was a big boy, the hotel staff looked after me really well, I got goodie bags when we checked in. One hotel gave me the honour of "VIP" very important pet! They took my picture for the front desk and I got a new toy.

But you know how it goes, all good things must come to an end. I met some really cool people, my best friends Satch and Drew, and my buddy Steve. They are going to come and visit me when the snow falls. I can't wait!!! When I got home I was so pooped I slept for daze......

Thanks again Satchie, Drew you guys have the best dad!!!

Your buddy Gizmo

"Yipee" My First Swim this Year!!

2008-04-26T19:08:00.000-07:00

What a great day I had today. I was finally allowed to go swimming. We go to the beach every day and everyday I try to go in the water, but no.....I'm not sure what was up today but I didn't even ask, I just ran right in the water and waited for dad to throw the stick. It was so much fun. I brought the stick back every time until I was so tired. I carried the stick all the way home. The next thing I know mom and dad have the hose and bucket and oh joy its bath time!! What did I do to deserve this?

Congratulations Satch & Drew

2008-04-13T07:01:00.000-07:00

My buddies Satch (Scoldie) and Drew were at a Dog Show this weekend in Sacramento...and they both did really well.

Satchie won Open Dog, then Winner's Dog, then Best of Winners, which meant he went into Best of Breed.
Two of the top five dogs in the US were in the competition, and he took second!!!!!! (Long live the white tips!!)

Drew got Winner's Reserve Dog. This was all done under extreme heat. Satchie's dad said it was sooooo hot....there is no way I could have handled that (well not without ice cream and a swimming pool)

A big newfie wag of the tail to my Karazan buddies. Good luck today. You guys are superstars and have made your papa very proud.

See ya in a couple weeks.

Gizmo

"Buster" we miss you!!

2008-04-02T16:53:00.000-07:00

This is dedicated to "Buster."
I never knew Buster, but he was very special to my mom and dad, and to BJ and Beau. Apparently the three of them hung out all the time. Buster was either at mom and dad's or BJ and Beau were at Buster's. They lived right next door with no fence for about 7 years. Buster looks like he was the smallest of the group but he thought he was the biggest! Nothing got in his way. What mom remembers most about Buster is the way that he greeted her when she came home. You could hear him whining from a mile away, and mom says that when she went to visit Buster after he moved he still greeted her the same way. Dad says that the 3 of them would go for walks in the woods together and that Beau would hold Busters lead in his mouth. They were like the three muskateers and Buster was the last of them.
Buster has gone to the Rainbow Bridge and the three of them are together again, having a great time.
I think dad had a real soft spot for Buster.....its the first time I've seen him shed a tear.
Buster you will always have a place in our hearts.
Take care buddy,
Gizzy & Co.

Newfie Lessons

2008-03-26T19:54:00.001-07:00

WHAT THE BOOKS "DON'T" TELL YOU

Author Unknown

Our first glimpse of Bear left us without a clue as to what life with a big dog might be like.
Moving flashes of black fluff were all that we could see; and those could only be glimpsed through air holes in the travel cage sitting on the Delta Airlines freight dock at Dallas-Ft Worth Airport.
We were too excited for it to sink in that our 12-week old Newfoundland Puppy already had to have a travel cage for medium sized dogs. But as I opened the cage door; what grabbed my attention was the biggest set of paws I have ever seen in my life! I remember thinking ”Good Lord! If this is just a puppy How big is this dog going to be when he grows up?”
Nine months later- at a year old, 29” tail and 130lbs. We got the answer: a whole lot bigger than the Newfoundland looked in the dog books. And we’re learning almost daily that there are hordes of big dog problems that the books didn’t tell you about.
After years of having only small dogs, we really thought we were ready for our first big dog. We had done our homework and felt we understood and had made mental adjustments for the obvious big dog requirements. We were prepared to by dog food in 50lb. Bags; clean up dog wastes in huge quantities and provide extra space and exercise. We also planned for obedience classes to establish firm control. Those are the kinds of things about which the books give you plenty of warning.
It’s the thing that the books don’t explain that boggle the minds of the first time big dog owner.
Like the statement, “Newfoundlands drink a lot of water.” They don’t drink a lot of water, they drink about a million gallons a day. And about half of that collects in their jowls just before they put their head into your lap while you’re wearing your new suit or dress. The books never said you need to buy extra bath towels just to wipe the dog’s face every drink about a thousand different times a day, but always at least 250 times during your favorite T.V show.
Sometimes I wonder if the people who write about big dogs actually own them? Or maybe they’re just passing along information they’ve read in dog books.
Being raised by a Newfoundland has taught us a lot of tricks that dog book writers seem never to mention; and Bear has been an excellent teacher. In fact we’re getting trained just the way she wants us. She’s taught us that from now on, barefoot is out anytime she’s in the house. We’ve learned that it hurts like heck when a 130lb. Dog steps on your bare feet. Nowhere in dog books does it tell prospective big dog owners to buy Steel-Toed boots at the same time the buy their first bag of puppy chow.
The books also don’t mention that the wagging tail of an excited big dog probably should be classified as a deadly weapon. Or that coffee tables can be swept clean of their contents with a single wag.
If I were writing a book, I’d tell big dog owners not to buy any tables until the dog is full grown. That way, you’d know how high they need to be to keep them out of tail range. There seems to be some unwritten rule at work that says furnishings already in the house will always be perfect tail level.
Maybe Big dog owners should lobby Congress for a law requiring breeders to put warning labels on the tail end of big dogs, being sent home with customers.
It might not be a bad idea to put one on the front end as well. It should say something like “Warning! This machine can be devastating to large pieces of furniture.”
Any dog, when it is teething can make a mistake and chew on your best sofa. The books warn about that. But what they don’t explain is the degree of difference involved with dog size.
For Example: our Dachshund once gnawed a small scar on the sofa leg. A swipe of the sand paper and a little furniture oil and it disappeared.
But our Newfoundland taught us that sandpaper and oil can’t make the entire arm reappear on the easy chair. Fortunately, we rationalized, the chair and sofa needed replaced anyway.
There’s a lot of other things about this life with a big dog for which the books don’t prepare you. But the trick to making the adjustment of life with a big dog is to use multiplication. All you need to do is multiply everything by a whole lot more.
*Heartworm pills are a good example. A bottle of 200 pills, each 180 mgs. Will last our 15lb. Dachshund for 800 days. Our Newfoundland goes through a bottle every 100 days. And that period will get even shorter as she gains weight. *A small dog sprawling on its back kicking its feet is a funny sight. A powerful, playful Newfoundland doing the same thing turns over coffee tables and rocking chairs. *A small dog wakes you in the night by whining. A big dog uses the shock treatment by washing your face with a mile long tongue. *A few fleas live on a small dog. A big dog can support a flea population equal to that of California. *A small dog digs holes in the yard. A big dog does swimming pool excavations. *A small dog looks at trees. A big dog either eats trees or strips the leaves of any branch less than 6 feet above the ground. *A small dog goes along for the ride and fits nicely in an economy car. The big dog is like taking 2 passengers, both of whom have a terminal case of the fidgets.
Those are just a sapling og the kinds of things the dog books should tell you when you are considering buying a big dog.
But they should also tell you that the big dog delivers an incredible amount of love and devotion; that their size makes them just perfect for hugging; and that they bring a feeling of security to a house that can’t be matched.
There’s also the very special feeling of being able to reach down touch the dog walking by your side without bending your knees or stooping over. That lets you maintain the special emotion, touching relationship with your dog in a way that only big dog owners can appreciate.
The dog books don’t tell you about that either. But they should. Because if we had known, we’d have gotten big dogs years ago.

I couldn't have said it better myself.....

Big Dogs Rule...

Giz

It's my Birthday!!!

2008-03-16T07:43:00.000-07:00

Today is my Birthday, I turn 4 years old, which doesn't sound like much, but for us four legged friends thats like 28, and then add a newfie in the mix and I'm like 30...yikes...now that is old!!!

Mom says I have to act more mature now, whatever that means....

We went for a long truck ride, and stopped at a really nice park on the way back, I got to get out and sniff around for a bit.

I got this silly monkey for my birthday, it squeaks...but doesn't taste very good.

But I do get a little tired of playing with it.

I think I'm ready for my birthday cake now!

Rebus I'll bring you a piece to class on Monday and Satch, Drew, I'll bring you down a piece.

I think I will nap now until mom brings it to me.

Gizzy

A Swimming Pool for Us!!!

2008-02-28T15:02:00.000-08:00

Hey Satch,

I really think that you would like the pool. My dad took me swimming the other day and it was so much fun! We got the whole pool to ourselves. There are all kinds of water toys for us to play with. And Jens and Chrissie are so nice, they helped me up and down the ramp into the pool.

Ok so when I was finished swimming it got a bit monotonous, mom and dad gave me a shower with some kind of smelly soap that Chrissie has. But it wasn't long before I got to be toweled off and allowed outside for a run around. Then back in my truck for the trek home. Oh and we did get to stop for icecream on the way home. That was the best!!

So just let me know when your heading my way Satch and I'll book the pool for us. Andrew will love it too.

Giz

Congratulations Karazan's!

2008-01-29T19:11:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to let my buddies down in California know how thrilled we are with your successful weekend at Cow Palace! We knew you could do it!! What a great show for all of you.

My mom was really upset that her plane got cancelled and she didn't get to share in your glory. It worked out really well for me though as mom spent the weekend with me!

We are waiting patiently for some pictures.

Please join me in giving all the Karazan's a big round of applause, but especially Andrew for all your hard work, we heard you did really well buddy, and Satch was right behind you. You guys did your papa proud.

Take care, and maybe some day we will be in the ring together. I'm kinda enjoying my time off right now though. Can't you tell by the smile on my face.

Gizmo

A New Friend

2008-01-29T18:23:00.000-08:00

Ok so this isn't a brother but its the best I could do. I just want everyone to know that I really do like the chicks and that I would never hurt them. So I found a new friend and I think she likes me. We hung out for awhile before she was taken back to her mom. See I didn't do anything she was the one checking me out.

And if you believe that, you better give your head a shake....This isn't me!!! but its a good picture dontcha think?

Giz

Just checking the Chicks!!!

2008-01-01T19:17:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I mentioned a while back that Farmer Joe has chickens. Well today I was just hanging out when out of the corner of my eye I saw one. Sooo I just happened to wander over to see what was up when all this commotion started. It wasn't me honest I was just looking! Talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Out comes Farmer Joe waving his hands, then I hear dad yelling at me, when the whole time I was just checking them out, they were the ones making all the noise, but do they get yelled out..nooooo....its always me that gets into trouble.

Now I think I'm going to need a lawyer to help me out.

Hey Satch, Andrew, do you guys know a lawyer that is willing to take dog cookies for payment.

Even worse, dad is scolding me cause I don't want to eat my dinner. He even tried to bribe me with some prime rib but I'll show him, I'll just snub my nose and turn away.

I feel a nap coming on.

oh I don't even like chicken!

Giz

"BJ the Best" Remembered

2007-12-28T16:19:00.000-08:00

Ok so he's not all newf, but believe it or not his dad was Beau. He was very important to my mom and dad. BJ left them suddenly, Jan 1, 2004 and I thought it would be a good idea to feature BJ on my blog. As you can see he was one happy puppy, mom taught him how to play soccer just like she has tried to teach me, but I tend to loose interest quickly. Dad says BJ was very special because he was allowed to go into the hospitals and put smiles on alot of peoples faces. He was also allowed to go to work with dad everyday....I got to go once...

Thats dad and BJ on the suspension bridge, I've been on it before, mom doesn't like it much cause she says I make it sway, I would much rather be in the water below it though.

Join me in giving a wag of the tail to "BJ the Best."

Gizmo the Great....well trying hard

Its the Best time of Year!!!

2007-12-21T07:30:00.001-08:00

This is the best time of year. Its nice and cool outside, the snow is falling and I love it! I have so many things to be thankful for. I am thankful for the belly rubs I get every morning when I wake up. I am thankful for my nice comfortable cushions that mom has all over for me to lay on. I'm thankful for my stuffies. I guess I am thankful for the dinner I get everynight, even though I don't always eat it, which upsets dad. I am thankful for the wonderful walks that take me to the beach everyday. But most of all I am thankful for all my newf found friends.
Wishing everybody health and happiness for the Newf Year!
All the best.
Gizmo

Karazan's "Jack" WRD

2007-12-08T17:53:00.001-08:00

Who possessed BeautyWithout Vanity,Strength without Insolence,Courage without Ferocity,And all the Virtues of ManWithout his Vices.

Hey Drew "Wanna know a Secret?"

2007-12-04T10:48:00.000-08:00

Hey you guys, I heard mom and dad talking last night, and they mentioned that maybe....just maybe your dad might bring you up to Canada for a visit at Christmas! I can't wait to meet you! My mom is busy making all these good smells coming from her kitchen. Yup christmas baking, and she makes special stuff for us newfs....I'm not one to usually share, but she bakes so much that I know there will be extra for you two too!!! Hopefully you will be able to meet with Rebus, his mom says he is full of beans! There are so many things I want to show you guys, we will have lotsa fun! Just a couple things to warn you about. Mom has a cat...I know I don't get it either, but she's been here alot longer than me, she's 19 (the cat not mom), and deaf, she wants nothing to do with me so we get along just great! She is black with white paws just like us tho. And the other is Farmer Joe's Chickens! We have to stay away from them, I try to sneak over casually but get caught every time....might be the noise the chickens make when they see me.
Anyway keep me posted.
Hope to see you soon
Gizmo

Happy Holidays "Let it Snow"

2007-12-01T12:11:00.000-08:00

This is my most favortie time of year!...Its snowing and I love it!! Dad and I built this cool snowbuddy...ok so he's cool until it warms up and he becomes a puddle. But for now at least I have someone to hang out with. Hey Satch & Drew, we can build snow caves when you guys come visit. Mom doesn't like all the snowballs that get attached to my fur. It takes her forever to get them off so I can come in the house, now it will be awhile before she lets me back out again....but I can't wait!!! I'll try and keep some snow for you Satch...hurry up!

Giz

My Buddy "Jake"

2007-11-22T19:21:00.000-08:00

This is my buddy Jake, he is my mom's nephew, so I guess that makes him my cousin (sort of) Jake came over the other day and we had a great time! He really is alot of fun to play with. Now his sister, Nevada she cries every time she looks at me. I can't come near her without her screaming. I'm not sure what she thinks is going to happen. We all went for a walk and I had to walk ahead with Jake so little Miss "N" wouldn't freak out! But we had a great time, Jake and I looked at all kinds of cool things at the beach, I wanted to go swimming but mom wouldn't let me. We came home and dad lit a big fire and we did one of my most favorite things....a weinnie roast!!! Satch and Andrew are coming here soon and we will be able to have a weinnie roast with them. What a great day!!
Giz

Trouble

2007-11-16T17:44:00.000-08:00

Hey Satch,

Help! Your dad sent these pictures to my mom and she won't stop looking at them! I'm pretty sure my days are numbered. This is "Roxy" she is a Karazan Newf. She just had 9 puppies, 4 girls and 5 boys. Mom and dad think a little brother for me would be perfect. I'm not so sure. I'll have to share everything. Any advice you have Satch would be greatly appreciated.

Giz

I Love my Stuffy!!!

2007-11-12T17:44:00.001-08:00

Ok so that doesn't sound very Newficious, but I keep hearing mom and dad talking about getting a brother for me, so everytime they go out I'm afraid of what they might bring home. Well today I thought that was it, here comes mom with this big fluffy white thing in her arms, I'm doomed, now I will have to share everything, and we all know that newfies have a hard time sharing. So she blows past me at the door and I tried so hard to get a whiff, but I wasn't quick enough to check it out. Then I hear dad say to let me check it out. The next thing I know I have this big white fluffy thing in my mouth. Its a new stuffy!!... (I don't have to share) Now you know why "I Love my Stuffy."

Gizmo

Fun at the Park!

2007-10-28T13:21:00.000-07:00

I had a great day today, I got to do my most favorite thing...A TRUCK RIDE!!!..not in my new truck mind you, but it was lotsa fun! We went and walked through trails and then to the dog park. Everything smells so good at the dog park, I just don't know where to begin. There was one of those little yappy dogs there, you know the kind that come running up to you yapping the whole time, thinking they are the biggest on the block, well one little swipe of my foot and poof to the sky (did I say that?) ooopss sorry. Anyway who gets hauled off to the truck but me...why me, I didn't do anything. Well maybe a little growl, but I was just trying to tell the little guy to shut up! But mom's a little softy sometimes and we got to drive through and get an icecream on the way home. She said it was to celebrate Satch and Andrew doing so well this weekend...atta boys!! Thanks

Gizmo

Yipee their home!!!

2007-10-17T19:28:00.001-07:00

Here are my buddies Satch and Drew, mom and dad just got back from a visit with them. Mom says that their dad Steve is the greatest....well next to my dad of course. Mom says that Satch looks just like me, infact I'm having a hard time telling if that is me or Satch in that picture. What do you think?

One day Satch and Andrew are going to come and visit me. I have so much to show them. We can go up the mountain to the snow, we can go to the beach every day, we can run anywhere we want and no one will chase us down, it will be so much fun!!!

I'm glad things are back to normal around here, its time for a nap.
Giz

Mom and Dad are leaving me......

2007-10-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

Satchie help!!

My mom and dad are leaving and I'm going to be home all alone...well sort of, mom has a friend looking after me, I really like her, her hair smells good, but its just not going to be the same.

Mom has been really spoiling me lately tho, I think she is feeling a little guilty. What can I do Satch.... I don't want them to leave me. Dad says its only for a few days, but it will fell like years!! Dad also said he's bringing a new truck home for me, and I'm really looking forward to that. Any advice you have Satch, let me know.

Your lonely pal... Giz

Happy Thanksgiving....only in Canada, eh!

2007-10-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

Its Thanksgiving weekend and mom says its only in Canada, and that Satch and Andrew don't celebrate it yet. But I wanted to wish you Happy Thanksgiving anyway. Boy does it smell good in the kitchen today. Mom is cooking all this stuff and then I hope I get to taste it. We raked leaves up yesterday then I sat in mom's pile and messed them all up again.
Welcome home Satch, glad you were able to bust out of jail!! I don't think I would cope very well wearing a muzzle all day. But I'm glad your back! Andrew did a good job keeping us up to date tho. Well I just came back from my walk at the beach now its time for a nap.
Giz

There once was a Newf named "Beau"

2007-09-30T15:19:00.000-07:00

Well another Sunday has past and I have to say that last Sunday was way more fun then today. It was a typical west coast day with lotsa rain and wind. I did manage to get 2 walks in but no truck rides and no swimming. Here are a couple pictures of one of my siblings ( well sort of, I never did get a chance to meet him) a Landseer, his name was Beau and he lived to be 13, mom & dad talk of him often. They say that he was a big handsome boy like someone else they know (wink wink) and he was so gentle, he came to them when he was 8 months old after the couple that adopted him first were unable to look after him, go figure as if newfs don't grow...HELLO...anyway there loss was mom & dad's gain. He had one of his eyes damaged when he was a small pup and after years of care, the Dr. finally had to remove it. But Beau didn't mind, he rarely looked at himself in the mirror. I'll show you BJ next...get it Beau Jr....oh brother....

Giz

I love Sundays!!

2007-09-24T18:57:00.000-07:00

Well Sunday was a great day, we did all the things I love to do. Started the day off with a walk to the beach, then mom & dad had this big discussion as to weather I could go swimming or not. Dad said he didn't have time, and Mom saying "oh come on he hasn't been swimming for over a week." Well mom won, I mean I won!!! But the deal was mom had to bath me when it was over. So the swimming was great, Dad threw the stick oh so far out, I had a great time ( Andrew where are you? I need your help.) Sorry Satch just to let you know its NORMAL for newfs to like the water. Then it was back home, I carried my stick all the way home and then buried it in mom's garden, I don't know why she was so upset, I bury my cookies there all the time. So out came the bucket, hose and that smelly stuff she puts in the water, and after standing for the longest time I was finally allowed to run away, thats the best part of a bath is when its all over and I get a rub down with the big fluffy towels. Next up was a truck ride, I love truck rides. Dad lets me stick my head out the window sometimes and lotsa people talk to me. We went for another walk, this one was longer then the first one! By this time I was so pooped, we finally got home and I was able to stretch out and have a rip snoring good nap.

Oh did I mention that I love Sundays!!!

Andrew "Karazan's Music of the Night"

2007-09-22T14:47:00.000-07:00

This is Satchie's little brother (sort of) Andrew "Drew" as he's known around his home. He is a beautiful Karazan boy, who will be a big 1 year old next month. His dad say's he is a really good swimmer. I am so looking forward to meeting Drew & Satchie, and practice our water rescue. Sorry Satch you can watch from the beach!

My Bud Satch "Karazan Satchel"

2007-09-21T10:09:00.000-07:00

This is my buddy Satchel, he lives down in California, he has a younger brother named Andrew, as soon as his dad sends a picture of him I will post it. Satch is the same age as me, and as you can see looks alot like me. We seem to have something in common with our tails! Satch's dad is fighting a big battle with the people that look after the beaches and parks in San Francisco, seems they don't want any of us or our 4 legged friends playing or swimming on "their" beaches. One day Satch and I are going to get together, I can't wait!!

Here's Rebus

2007-09-21T07:49:00.001-07:00

This is Rebus, he is my 1/2 brother. Rebus is just 10 months old and already weighs 120lbs. His real name is "Pipeline's Beyond the Sea". He is a gorgeous newfie with the sweetest of temperament. He hangs out in Nanaimo B.C, with his mom Val and dad Glyn.

Introducing "Gizmo"

2007-09-20T20:17:00.000-07:00

My name is Gizmo "Mainsails Blackberry Express" I was born March 18, 2004 in Chilliwack British Columbia. I now live with my mom & dad in Ladysmith B.C. My most favorite thing to do is hang out with my dad and go swimming with him. He lets me rescue him! I'm just learning water rescue. I am now 31/2 years old and weigh 175lbs. I am a TipTop puppy, my dad is Tip Top's The World is not Enough "Baja" and my mom is Tip Top's Singin the Blues, "Sophie"