Smushie Ranch

CHECK OUT OUR NEW BLOG

2012-01-10T18:58:00.000-08:00

THE SMUSHIES HAVE MOVED

CHECK OUT THEIR NEW BLOG....

http://lifeonthesmushieranch.blogspot.com/

FRIDAY HORSE TALK

2011-05-06T05:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

The Smushies

I hate Mondays

2011-05-02T21:02:00.000-07:00

I really don't ask for much...

Momma, pick me up and put me on my chair. I'm too tired to jump up myself.

Great, now who's going to fluff my pillow. It's all crooked.

Is it too much to ask to get things right around here?

Hmpf,

Macaroni

MEET LOU

2011-04-28T16:14:00.000-07:00

Hey furiends!!

We have a new fur sibling, but he doesn't have a smush face.

Lou

Lou is a BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Mustang. Many many years ago he was a wild horse that was rescued and tamed to live with people. Sadly, his family recently abandoned him. But now he's come to live at the Smushie Ranch with us!

Momma said he's got the SWEETEST personality and loves to follow her around the pasture. The other day she gave him a bath, which was a lot different then giving us a bath in the bathtub... BOL!

We also have a new addition at the Smushie Ranch. A new baby was born! His name is Spider and was born at night while everyone was sleeping.

Spider

Not much new with us expect that Momma says another FBRN foster is coming this weekend. We're all excited, except for Angus. He's still kind of a stick in the mud.

Really? I gotta share my house with another ding dang Frenchie. Hmpf.

Love to all!!

The Smushies

Macaroni Approved!

2011-04-14T14:23:00.000-07:00

Macaroni has a most favorite toy that he can't live without. It's a stuffie on the outside with a crinkle, crunchy water bottle on the inside!

You all should talk your folks into getting one for yourself.

Love,

The Smushies

Workn' for a livin'....

2011-04-09T16:01:00.000-07:00

I'm a workin' man. My good buddy Hanklin understands what I mean.

I look out over my fields and see they need mowin'

Good thing I have my trusty John Deere.

Only thing missin' is my good buddy Hank and a case of Pabst Blue Ribbon..

Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

Gunther

What is up with Gunther?

2011-04-08T06:03:00.000-07:00

I'm very happy to be a member of the Smushie family.

But no one warned me about Gunther and his crazy tongue!

Hey tongue, down in back...

It's like he always has to show off.

Sorry Stella girl, you're on your own.

It's a little scary.

Dude, keep your tongue to yourself...

Love,

Angus

Another Smushie has crossed the Rainbow Bridge

2011-04-05T12:22:00.000-07:00

We are very sad to announce that our former FBRN foster, Marge has crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

Marge's forever family contacted Momma the other day and let her know that Marge passed away because of heart failure. Her family is so sad because they only got to share a few months with her, but loved her dearly. We're all very sad too because we love all the Smushies we share our home with. They all take a little piece of Momma's heart when they continue on with their journey.

We know Marge is up in heaven, playing with all the loved ones we miss so much.

Love,

The Smushies

SPRING BASKET RAFFLE!

2011-04-04T11:40:00.000-07:00

FBRN's Spring Basket Raffle is under way!!

This is one of FBRN's biggest fundraisers and we really need your help. We have so many needy frogs in our care that without donations, we wouldn't be able to provide them with the necessary medical care they need.

http://frenchbulldogrescue.org

If it weren't for FBRN, I would have never been blessed with my angel Betty,

or our special boy, Macaroni

THANK YOU EVERYONE!!

Love,

The Smushies

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-30T07:49:00.000-07:00

Lot's of love from the Smushies... and Joe!

Guess who has the sniffles...

2011-03-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

Macaroni got the sniffles. Momma took him to the vet and they said it's like a cold. So he has to take antibiotics.

Momma said she was gonna have to take his favorite toy and wash it to get rid of the cold germs. He wasn't too happy about it.

Mac even poops with his favorite toy...

Lot's of love,

The Smushies

Angus finds his forever home!

2011-03-25T10:47:00.000-07:00

Our puggie foster, Angus has found his forever home too!

With who you ask?

Inquiring minds want to know...

With the Smushie family, that's who!!

Macaroni is feeling a little pugged out, but momma said she can't put poor Angus through another life adjustment. He's 'sensitive'... whatever.

At least Macaroni got another Frenchie playmate last night. We have a new FBRN foster puppy to keep him company for awhile!

Smushie love to everyone!!

Brownie found her forever home!

2011-03-23T21:16:00.000-07:00

Hip hip hooooray! Brownie has found her forever home!

Her new mom and brother drove 8 hours in the recent storm to come pick her up. Her new dad and sister were at home getting the house all ready for her.

What a happy family.

Brownie's new brother was particularly smitten with her.

Way to go Brownie!! We're gonna miss you but we're so happy you found such a wonderful family.

Love,

The Smushies

Gotta earn your keep!

2011-03-18T14:22:00.000-07:00

As a non-Smushie, Marshall is expected to earn his keep...

These are my chicks and ain't nothin' gonna happen to them.

Marshall takes his job very seriously.

You ladies get back with the others!

The chickens aren't always happy about it.

We're gonna go on strike if you don't call off the mutt!

Hugs and farts,

The Smushies

Happy St. Smushie Day!

2011-03-17T08:15:00.000-07:00

Have a safe and fun St. Smushie Day!

xoxox

The Smushies

IT'S A BOY!!!

2011-03-13T09:02:00.000-07:00

Big Momma had her baby last night! He was born at 6:33 p.m. and we are overjoyed we got to witness his birth.

He's coming. Ya don't want to be standing too close to the rear when her water breaks. Trust us..

Two hours later and TAAA DAAA! He's here!

Welcome to Smushie Ranch baby.

He needed a little help from Auntie Christine to find momma's ninny.

This morning he's already running circles around his momma.

The Smushies are passing the cigars... BOL!

xoxo

The Smushies

Bubbles

2011-03-12T08:30:00.000-08:00

Momma has many chickens. She LOVES her chickens and we do to since momma scrambles their eggs and puts 'em in our food.. BOL!

This is Bubbles. She's a red and blue laced Wyndotte. She was really shy at first when she came to Smushie Ranch, but now like the other chickens she follows momma around the yard.

We're not allowed in with the chickens and duck because we like to chase them. Well, except for Stella who just wants to eat their poop. BLECH!

Remember Marge? She always wanted to go visit the ducks and chickens...

Macaroni is usually just happy hanging out in the yard with Momma. She calls him Velcro because he's always gotta be with her.

Have a fun Saturday!

xoxo

The Smushies

What you all have been waiting for!!!

2011-03-10T07:53:00.000-08:00

It's the Gunther Smackdown!!

Gunther reinforces daily that he's the boss smushie on the ranch. It won't be long before Marshall is 100 times his size, but we have a feeling that won't stop Gunther... BOL!

Brownie, our Central Coast Pug Rescue foster, has kinda turned into the fun police when Gunther beats up on Marshall. She's taking lessons from Stella.

It's day two of Angus' smushie transformation. He reluctantly ate a few bites of his diet food this morning. Then he went on a walk about with Stella. He seems to gain a lot of confidence having another puggie along and no one has more confidence than Stella!

And, now for some non-smushie related happenings...

This is Gracie and Big Momma. Both of these mares are going to have their babies any day now. We are all sitting on pins and needles around here! Momma will try to have her flip video ready when the big event happens.

Lot's of love,

The Smushies

The Circle of Life.

2011-03-09T11:44:00.000-08:00

We are no strangers to sadness and loss at the Smushie Ranch. Yet, when one of our own makes the journey over the Rainbow Bridge, our hearts break just the same.

Our FBRN foster, Kona, sadly crossed the Rainbow Bridge on Monday morning.

He had two surgeries to try to help him breathe easier. He had his soft palate shortened and then weeks later he had his nares done. But sadly, Kona was born with a very small and weak trachea. The vet warned momma that despite the surgeries, he was still at risk for breathing issues and should be monitored closely during play time, over activity and warm weather.

On Sunday night, Kona started having great difficulty breathing so momma rushed him to the ER vet. They gave him drugs to help him breathe and then had him spend the night in the oxygen chamber. By morning, he didn't show any improvement and the vets determined he had complete tracheal collapse. So Momma made the most painful decision and helped Kona cross the Rainbow Bridge. She held him and told him everything was going to be okay because he wouldn't have to fight to breathe anymore. She also told Kona that Betty would be waiting for him on the other side, where he could run and play forever in his new body.

Kona was one of the sweetest and most gentle fosters we've ever shared our home with. We are going to miss him so much.

There is a circle of life and it just so happened that Monday evening, momma got a call from Central Coast Pug Rescue about a pug in need....

This is Angus. He's only 3 years old and is in dire need of a diet. The vet says he's about 9lbs overweight. That's a lot for puggie!

He's really shy and very sad about being uprooted. The other male pug in his former home was mean to him so his owners felt he'd be better off in a different home.

He'll be here for awhile so that he can learn to trust people and shed those extra pounds. Keep Mr. Angus in your thoughts while he goes through his Smushie transformation.

Lot's of love,

The Smushies

There's a new Marshall in town

2011-03-08T08:23:00.000-08:00

Well, he'll be a true Marshall someday. But right now, he's still a puppy and isn't good for much except bugging the Smushies.

Marshall is a Live Stock Guard Dog. He's Great Pyrenees and Anatolian Shepherd cross. He looks big, huh? Guess what... he's only 10 weeks old! BOL!!

He loves us and thinks we're his herd. So momma has to take him out with the horses a lot so he knows his job isn't to only protect us.

Unlike us Smushies, he spends most of his time outside to learn to guard the Smushie Ranch. We go outside often though to say hi and keep him company. Specially Gunther, who likes to beat him up several times a day.

This is Grandma introducing Marshall to Joe and momma's pony, Sheldon. That was just a couple weeks ago, and now Marshall is kinda too big to be held.

BTW, Joe the Donkey and Sheldon the Appaloosa Pony are momma's babies out on the Ranch. Joe was a rescued donkey and he was kinda lonely. So then momma found Sheldon, who is 19 years old and was in need of a new home. She never imagined these two would become BEST friends.

More to come from life on the Smushie Ranch...

XOXO

The Smushies

Lot's of Changes and New Beginnings!

2011-03-06T14:03:00.000-08:00

Momma thought it was time to celebrate with everyone our life on Smushie Ranch. We were all very sad after Betty crossed over the Rainbow Bridge and we just didn't feel much like celebrating anything. We all still miss Betty more than anything, but we know we have to keep living life to the fullest and honor her memory.

So, the first thing we're so excited to share is that Macaroni is officially a member of the Smushie Family!

He was originally our FBRN foster, but we fell madly in love with him and couldn't let him go.

Life sure is busy around Smushie Ranch. Momma has another FBRN foster that has some serious breathing issues. He's already had two surgeries but he's got a really small trachea so momma has to find a special home for him. He's as sweet as ever, but he can't play too much so he doesn't get over excited. And we all know that's easy to do around here!

We also have a new foster from our local Pug rescue. Whoo Hooo! Momma has always said we need a pug rescue around here, and now we got one! When word got out that they needed a foster home, momma wasted no time to scoop up a cutie pie in need.

This is our Central Coast Pug Rescue foster. Her name is Brownie and she's become bestest friends with Stella.

She also doesn't mind sharing daddy's lap with Gunther and Macaroni.

Brownie is the same age, size and weight as Stella. They look like ying and yang running around Smushie Ranch together.

We've missed all our friends. We're looking forward to sharing all the other non-smushie animals with everyone.

This is our favorite horse on the ranch. Her name is Sky. She's as big as a house, but really gentle.

Love,

The Smushies

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-26T07:57:00.000-08:00

Meet our new foster... Oberon!

2011-01-24T18:18:00.000-08:00

Give a high five for our new house guest... Mr. Oberon, aka 'Sir Humps A Lot'. In addition to needing soft pallet and nare surgery, he really needs to get shhhh.. get neutered!

He's totally smitten with Mac. We can't blame him, we think Mac has a nice booty too. BOL!

He was found diggin' through trash cans in the alley of a busy area. A very nice Samaritan scooped him up and got him to FBRN. After he gets all his medical issues behind him, he'll start the journey to find his forever home.

Love,

The Smushies

Marge's New Family

2011-01-19T18:04:00.000-08:00

I'm very happy to report that Marge has found the most wonderful forever family!

They were so excited to learn they they were chosen as her mom and dad, they wanted to jump in the car and pick her right away. She get's to join a Frenchie fur sister named Foxy who's the same age as her.

We're gonna miss our large Marge, but we know she couldn't be in a more perfect home.

Love and hugs,

The Smushies

Wordless Smushface Wednesday

2010-12-22T07:31:00.000-08:00

Toastin' my buns

2010-12-21T09:44:00.000-08:00

It's been very rainy and gloomy outside.

Marge is making the best of it though by staying cozy inside.

First I lay down in front of the fire, making sure to warm my nose.

Then, I turn my large and in charge self around and toast my butt.

It's all about balance, people. Balance.

Love, Marge

New friends at Smushface Ranch

2010-12-20T06:46:00.000-08:00

We have some new furiends at Smushface Ranch. We're not allowed to go out and play with them, but we snoopervise them from our yard.

Momma rented out some of our pastures to a family of professional barrel racers. Momma said it's like a dream come true, she gets to go out and visit with horses but she's not financially responsible for them.. BOL!

Five of the horses are 4-5 month old weanlings. They're so cute! Momma and Clair went out to say hello to the babies and one of them stole momma's beanie right off her head!

In the other pasture are 5 broodmares. Momma isn't as comfortable going in their pasture because they're so big! This broodmare is preggers and will have her baby in March.

We can't see the momma horses from our yard, but we're gonna enjoy watching the babies grow up.

Love,

The Smushfaces

Smushie Pile

2010-12-19T07:10:00.000-08:00

Always room for one more.

Errr, arg... ummm. S'cuse me while I squeeze in....

Love,

Shannon & the Smushies

Smushie Lovin'

2010-12-17T05:36:00.000-08:00

There's been lot's of Smushie lovin' around here.

Gunther and Mac

Marge and Gunther

The size difference between Noni and Mac makes momma chuckle...

Noni and Mac (and Mac's bone of course)

Spread the cheer.... spread the love!

The Smushies

Dis my bone and ain't nobody gonna take it!

2010-12-13T19:41:00.000-08:00

Big Mac ALWAYS sleeps with his favorite Nylabone.We think since he has a crook in his neck he likes to rest his head on something.

And oh whoa is the Smushie that tries to sneak it out from under him!

Go ahead, try to take my bone. Make my day....

Love,

The Smushies

Been Keeping Momma Busy

2010-12-12T10:06:00.000-08:00

One year ago today was Betty's gotcha day. Momma took a red-eye from Los Angeles all they way to Columbus, Ohio to pick her up. Then she jumped right back on the plane with Betty and they both flew home.

Beth and Barry were Betty's FBRN foster family. They met momma in the baggage claim at the airport. She was so loved by everyone.

So, the Frenchie powers must know momma is missing Betty because they have been keeping her busy!!

Meet Noni, our newest foster.

Ain't she cute as a button? She's totally deaf but has already learned lot's of hand signals from momma so she's getting around just fine. She also uses Gunther and Mac as her ears so she follows their lead a lot.

She loves everyone, specially daddy.

Compared to the other Smushies, particularly Mac and Marge, Noni is a pipsqueak. She only weighs 18lbs. She also makes the best Wookie noises when she wants attention from momma.

It's gonna be a very Smushie Christmas around here!!

Love, the Smushies

Gunther is embracing the Holidays!

2010-12-06T14:00:00.000-08:00

Maybe if I skillfully disguise myself in the middle of this Christmas wreath, they'll think it's a centerpiece and I'll be placed in the middle of the table!

Think it'll work???

Gunther

Thankful for all our friends

2010-12-04T16:21:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking so much of how one little perfect dog can touch so many life's and bring people together who otherwise might have never met (virtually or otherwise).

I will be forever grateful to all our friends who have sent such kind thoughts about Betty, specially our blogger friends.

I miss my sweet angel terribly, but everyday is a reminder of how special she was and that she and many other dogs like her deserve a second chance in life, even if they have a disability or illness....

Days before Betty crossed the Rainbow Bridge, we welcomed another FBRN foster Frenchie. We call him big Mac.

He turned 1 on November 18th. He was imported into the U.S. from a puppy mill in Russia. His family surrendered him because he has a deformity called Hemivertebre. It's when one of the vertebre forms into a wedge shape instead of a circle. Mac's Hemivertebre is up near his shoulder/ neck area and causes his head to always tilt to the left.

He is the biggest sweetie and is BEST friends with Gunther. Despite his deformity, he enjoys playing and spending time with the other Smushies.

We don't quite know what his future holds, but whatever it is, he's loved and is treated like a part of our family.

Love,

Shannon and the Smushies

2010-11-22T18:25:00.000-08:00

It's been one week since my angel crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

I take comfort in the fact she's never going to be scared of the seizures she suffered. Peace is starting to find it's way into my heart and our home.

Deprogramming myself from how we structured our life around Betty may take awhile. I still find myself checking the time constantly to make sure I'm not late giving Betty one of her many anti-seizure pills. When one of the Smushies is dreaming and running in their sleep, I get anxious thinking it's a seizure! Poor kids have been woken up so many times this week they're sleep deprived....

Despite my sadness, I know the circle of life continues on. If it weren't for Betty, I don't think I would have learned how incredibly special the French Bulldog Rescue Network is. If it weren't for Betty, we would have never welcomed needy Frenchies into our home, like Rini, Newman and Marge, who are all living out a life they may not have had if it weren't for FBRN. My dedication to rescue and for FBRN will always be in Betty's honor and memory.

I miss her so much, but the tears are starting to ebb a little. Everyone's support and love has made a huge difference. Snuggling with Stella, Gunther and Marge has been helping a lot too.

Love to all our friends,

Shannon and the Smushies

Giving it my best effort

2010-11-17T16:52:00.000-08:00

I can't begin to express how much everyone's kind and encouraging words have been helping me through this. And to learn some of you have gone through the same type of loss has helped me feel not so alone. I honestly don't know what I would do if I didn't have the support of my blogger friends. People who aren't 'animal' people just don't understand how devastating it is to lose a fur kid. Thank you my friends. Truly, thank you.

I have earnestly been trying to take everyone's advice to heart. So, as I type this Ms. Stella is in my lap snoring sound asleep. I welcome their love and know it's important to remember they loved Betty just as much as I did and they're hurting too.

I figured it's important to keep myself busy right now so I decided to repaint our bathroom. I went to Lowe's for the first time without Betty or any of the other dogs for that matter.

I'm confident I would come off as crazy if I told the average person that pushing the empty cart made me choked up the entire time I was walking through the store. I felt like one of those movie star types that had to keep her sun glasses on while inside. Most of the people that work at Lowe's knew Betty by name and I was so scared one of them was going to ask me where she was. I know I would have totally lost it. I feel really lucky no one did, or maybe it was the fact I was hiding behind my sunglasses they figured it was best to leave me alone.

I'm looking forward to the day when I can remember Betty and it will bring a smile to my face instead of tears...

Thank you again for everyone's love during this really hard time.

Shannon & the Smushies

Why??

2010-11-16T09:43:00.000-08:00

Please forgive my ramblings. I can't wrap my mind around the fact Betty is gone. Why was she seizure free for 9 months and now she's gone?? WHY?

She had a few mild seizures over the past couple months, but she was doing good. We were managing it. I'm still in shock that within 2 days, she's just gone from horrible, continuous seizures.

I can't stop questioning if I could have done something different for her. Was there something in the house that was a trigger and WHY didn't I recognize it?

Several doctors and a very dear friend with her own seizure dog have told me that this happens with seizure dogs. That this is the most frustrating thing about dogs with Epilepsy. One day they are fine and the next they are gone. But I still can't stop screaming WHY??

The loss of Betty is overwhelming. The sense of guilt I feel for not saving her is killing me. Should I have tried more medication? Should we have given her longer to adjust to the larger doses of Postassium Bromide? Was it too much medication? Did she suffer? Was she scared? Did she know how much I loved her up to the end? Someone please give me the answers to help ease my pain!!!

Stella and Gunther have both been in my lap trying to comfort me, but I feel guilty for loving on them because Betty is gone. Would she think I'm just moving on? How is it to know something logically but emotionally all I can rationalize is that I want my Betty back.

Shannon

Betty is an angel in heaven now.

2010-11-15T08:09:00.000-08:00

Tears are streaming down my face as I share with our friends that my angel Betty has passed away.

12-22-2007 - 11-14-2010

We adopted her from the French Bulldog Rescue Network. Her gotcha day was December 12th, 2009. We knew she had a seizure disorder, but something about her spirit stole my heart and I knew we belonged together.

Through our wonderful vet, we were able to keep her seizure free for 9 months. I was dedicated to learning everything I could about canine epilepsy to ensure she had a long life with us. My heart breaks that despite my efforts, I lost my precious girl far too soon. We were all blessed that for 9 wonderful months Betty experienced life without suffering a seizure.

She was my constant companion. If not glued to my side at home, she tagged along in the shopping at whatever store we happened to be shopping in.

Betty LOVED Stella and Gunther and they her. From the second I walked in the door after adopting her, the 3 of them acted as if they had known each other forever.

Betty was my 'heart' dog and a large piece of my heart died with her last night. She suffered debilitating seizures the past 2 days that no creature should have to endure. I set my baby girl free while holding her and telling her how much I loved her and that my life will never be the same without her.

Thank you all for sharing our time with Betty. She will be missed more than I can describe.

Shannon

Sweater Vest for Betty!

2010-10-21T13:08:00.000-07:00

It's finally gotten chilly enough around here for Momma to order the 1st of many sweater vests from Melissa at Pug Notes.

Betty got her sweater vest today! Since Betty doesn't have a thick coat, she was getting cold really easy. Her new sweater couldn't have arrived at a more perfect time!

Taaaa Daaaa. Doesn't she look purty?

Thanks Melissa! We can't wait until momma orders more!

Love,

The Smushies

I thought this was our Smushiemobile!

2010-10-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

Momma is really testing our patience!!

The smushiemobile is for the sole purpose of transporting us where we need to go, or to pick up our foodables..

What's this???

Non-Smushies! And what's with the strange noises they make?

Momma said she ALWAYS wanted big white ducks. Well, she got 'em! But the dumb dumb didn't think about bringing a carrier with her when she went to pick them up. Bahhhh!

Good thing she put a tarp in the back because they pooed the entire way home. Thankfully our Smushiemobile is not damaged by the nuclear duck poop. Butt whoa, talk about stench! And everyone thought Frienchie farts were bad.

Still helping momma with deodorizing the Smushiemobile...

Stella, Gunther, Betty and Marge

Happenings at the Ranch

2010-10-17T17:06:00.000-07:00

We have to keep this super secret from Stella since Momma is talking about a, shhhh C.A.T. You all know how much Stella dislikes cats (aliens). So we'll just keep this post between us.. okay?

We have a kitty that has adopted us! That's right, his name is RC (short for Ranch Cat). So creative dad... uh yeah.

He follows us EVERYWHERE! Except for the yard, because Gunther thinks he doesn't belong there considering Stella's feelings and all.

So, since RC can't make furiends with the Smushies, he decided to make furiends with the Alpacas and Joe!

He's always hanging out with them..

Even when they eat!

They don't seem to mind though, in fact, we think the Alpacas kinda like having him around.

So Stella won't think it's all about the cat (alien)... we also wanted to share our new yard. Momma and daddy put in new grass for us. Betty loves to scratch and tickle her belly on it.

Daddy also took us with him to snoopervise while he walked one of the pastures. It's really really hard work, but someone's gotta do it!

Lot's of love,

The Smushies

Marge Update

2010-10-05T18:05:00.000-07:00

Marge is home from having the 1st stage of her surgeries. She's not feeling the best, but nurse Stella has not left her side!

Marge, you rest. I'll gnaw on your favorite toy until you feel better...

Dr. Stephens expected to go in and remove a flap of skin (elongated soft palette) that we thought was blocking her airway. As it turned out, that wasn't the problem. It's a big flap of skin/ tissue that is blocking her sinus passages. So basically that piece of tissue is sucked into Marge's nasal passages when she tries to breath, eat or drink. This type of surgery requires a specialist, so Marge will have to wait a couple weeks to have this done.

In the meantime, Marge was spayed (no more puppies for her!!) and she had her ears scoped while under anesthesia. Dr. Stephens removed a growth that was blocking her left ear canal and was able to get some medication into both ear canals to help with the inflammation. Sadly, there is quite a bit of scar tissue so the likely hood of her recovering full hearing is slim to none.

After Ms. Marge recovers from her spay, she'll be seen by the specialist to complete her surgery. Until then, she'll be resting and recovering under the watchful eye of her fellow smushies.

Lot's of love,

Shannon and the Smushies

Tommorow is the big day!!

2010-10-04T07:12:00.000-07:00

Momma wants to first thank everyone for the love, support and donations we've received for Marge!

Tomorrow is a big day for Marge. It's the beginning of her new life without difficulty breathing, eating and drinking. Yaaahooooo!

The doc is also going to see how he can help her ears so she can regain some hearing. Keep your paws crossed everyone!!

Momma says the donations are going to help greatly. So, we're gonna keep putting the word out because it's like a $1,000 green ones to get Marge in tip top shape. Please help spread the word furiends!

What? They don't call me large Marge for nothin'!~

Lot's of love,

The Smushies

Gunther's Gotcha Day!

2010-09-30T14:01:00.000-07:00

Today is Gunther's Gotcha Day!!!

4 years ago today, our world became a happier place thanks to Gunther...

He's always happy.

And knows the proper place to potty.

He's a devoted brother and protector of his family.

#1 fan of Animal Planet too!

We love you Gunther!!

Momma and Daddy

ATTENTION EVERYBODY!

2010-09-28T15:14:00.000-07:00

Calling all our furiends, both 2 legger and 4 legger.

Momma set up one of those Chip In thingies to collect donations for Marge's surgeries. Any little bit will help our foster sissy. She's a heavy breather (and not the good kind either!), so she needs some work to help her breath, eat and drink easier. She also needs her ears scoped so she can hopefully hear again too. Although, we never listen to momma ourselves, so I'm kinda wondering... What's the point???

So, I'll just be sitting here, manning the phones,

In between naps of course...

Lot's of love,
Betty

Large Marge

2010-09-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Guess what momma has been busy doing??

Say hi to our new foster fur sibling, Marge...

Momma spent her 40th birthday meeting up with a Pug Pros

volunteer who drove Marge from Berkley to Monterey. But first Marge was picked up north of Sacramento by another FBRN volunteer who drove her down to Berkly. It was a real team effort getting her into rescue.

Marge is deaf from severe and chronic ear infections. She is on anti-imflammatories, antibiotics and ear drops to try to hopefully reduce the swelling in her ear canals. She is also already scheduled for Soft Palette Resection surgery so she can not only breath, but eat and drink comfortably too. After she's healed from her ear infections and her Soft Palette surgery, momma says she'll be spayed and never have to worry about raising puppies again!

Maybe the doc can do a boob lift too...

Despite Marge's 'little' bumps in life, momma says she's the biggest sweetheart and really loving. She's even started playing an occasional game of tug-o-war with us.

We all think she's pretty neat and kinda like having her around...

Momma is going to start some fundraising to help cover Marge's surgeries. Soon she'll be on FBRN's foster page, where everyone can make a donation to help her along the road to recovery.

We've missed everyone!!

Love,

The Smushies

Did you hear?

2010-09-07T14:42:00.000-07:00

What?!! Newman, the little pipsqueak, is going to his new home soon?

Arg, that just makes me want to spit!

Don't worry everyone, we promise to keep y'all posted.

xoxo

Stella, Gunther and Betty

New Super Duper CA license Plates

2010-08-30T20:20:00.000-07:00

Momma doesn't get overly excited about many things. Mainly just her Ben & Jerry's and of course the fur kids.

But, now she's found something else to get all giddy about...

Momma already pre-ordered her plates. As soon as they have 7,500 orders, the DMV will start producing them. Woot woot!

Momma has never had personalized plates before, but she got some now. Guess what they're gonna say?...

You guessed it!

SMUSHI

Love,

Stella, Gunther & Betty

Stubby's mom is a lifesaver...

2010-08-28T05:15:00.000-07:00

Momma may be a bit over dramatic, but she really does feel that Stubby's

momma saved Stella's life.

See all the lovin' and snugglin' Stella is getting from Ms. Michelle? Well normally we'd be really jealous, but while rubbing Stella's Buddha belly she noticed a lumpy bumpy thing.

Momma said she felt it too, but thought it was one of Stella's many girly nipples (tee hee). Upon closer inspection, Momma saw that unless Stella sprouted an extra nipple, it was a lump. Not good.

So the next day, momma had Stella at the vet (with Betty cause she needed lookin' at too). Dr. Stephens said that lumpy bumpy thing had to come off STAT because he wasn't comfortable with it's appearance.

In went Stella for a little nip and tuck.

As it turned out, that lumpy bumpy thing was a Mass Cell Tumor. Dr. Stephens said on a scale of 1 - 3 it was only a 1 because we caught it early enough. He also said he took some extra ~~fat~~ tissue around it so the pathologists are confident he got it all. No further surgery or treatment is required!

Whew!! What a huge scare for all of us.

If it wasn't for Stubby's family comin' to visit us, who knows what could have happened! Well, momma would have noticed it eventually, but we're sure counting our blessings things worked out like they did.

Plus, we got to spend time with Stubby and his family.

Love and thanks,

The Smushies

What an ass!...

2010-08-26T08:47:00.000-07:00

Love,

The Smushies!

Pee Ess, this is Joe. Momma got him to 'protect' the Fab 5. However, he's kinda mean and just chases them around. So now he's on a time out in another pasture.

Pee Ess Ess, momma says you can click on the pictures to biggify them.

They're here!

2010-08-24T15:46:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited the Alpacas are here, I can't help myself but to jump up on the kitchen table so I can look at them!

This is Nikita. He's kinda the boss of everyone but is real tame and loves to follow momma around when she goes into their pasture.

These two are Santiago (brown and white) and Yuki. Momma has to show them where the water is. How dumb are they?... Sheesh.

Momma and Uncle Chuck haven't been able to get a picture yet of Prince Charles and Tejon. They've been too busy running and frolicking through the pasture.

Sending tons of puppy kissses to my buds,

Newman

And we're waiting...

2010-08-20T12:17:00.000-07:00

What the heck.

Momma said we're getting these Alpaca things.

How long is she gonna make a girl wait?

Smushie love,

Betty

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T07:50:00.000-07:00

Alpaca? Is that a new type of foodable?

2010-08-16T16:34:00.000-07:00

Momma says we're getting Alpacas. We thought she was taking about a new supplement for our foodables.

And then she started calling 'em by names... WHAT?!

Prince Charles

Yuki (means snow in Japanese)

Tejon (means Raccoon in Spanish)

Nikita

Santiago

Apparently momma doesn't think it's enough to rescue smushies, now we gotta share our ranch with these Alpaca things.

We sure hope Stubby and his family doesn't mind having these weird looking things greeting them at the gate.

Lot's of love,

The Smushies!

Smushie Butt Ranch!

2010-08-15T18:15:00.000-07:00

Momma took a picture of the ranch.

It's full of Smushie butts and frog legs.

We hope all our buddies had a fabulous weekend!
Love,
The Smushies

What the heck is a Bush Hog?

2010-08-14T07:55:00.000-07:00

Momma said a Bush Hog was coming to eat all our weeds.

Our question was, "what do you feed it when we run out of weeds?"

Are we gonna have to share our foodables with it?

Momma can't find the cord for her camera, otherwise there would be smushtastic pictures of us...

Love,

The Smushies

Pug size windows.

2010-08-11T06:11:00.000-07:00

Momma says please don't look at the dead weeds and chipping paint. They've already taken care of some of that.

I told momma no one would probably even notice that stuff when I point out to them the awesomeness of our new house,

Custom Pug sized windows... Just for me!

Newman might fit for now.

As for Betty the tank? Well I don't think her ears will even make it through..

Happy Hump Day!

Love, Stella

Smushie Snuggle

2010-08-09T07:20:00.000-07:00

A snuggle a day keeps the vet away...

The smushies.

We're finally moved!

2010-08-08T08:44:00.000-07:00

We've missed everyone!

Momma and daddy have been so busy moving us from the ocean to the country, we haven't had a free second to catch up with our blogging buddies.

We snoopervised daddy while he disconnected the t.v. from the old house.

Then Newman gave daddy raspberries as he had to carry the t.v. down the steep driveway. So not cool, Newman...

Once at the new house, there was a lot to do!

Gunther snoopervised most of the unpacking. He said something about being union and it being against union rules for him lift a paw...

We had to make a few trips to Lowe's to get stuff for the new house.

And of course there was more snoopervising.

This is our handyman, Dean. We were close by should he need us to pass him a wrench or something.

One thing we learned about Ranches, there's a lot of weeds. So our Uncle Chuckles came over to show 'em who's boss!

Momma got a message from Stubby's mom that they're coming for a visit, so one of the first things she did is get their room ready.

And then she had to get all of daddy's wine unpacked.

There's still a little bit to do on the ranch, but we're having a lot of fun. Lot's more pictures to come!

Love,

The Smushies

Make room for me!

2010-07-18T08:01:00.000-07:00

Momma, now that we're down to 4, you've got room for all of us in your lap, right?

Love,

Stella, Gunther, Betty (and Newman)

Twofer

2010-07-15T08:27:00.000-07:00

We used to get special, individual treatment on spa day. But now momma puts us through the bath like we're on an assembly line and we get de-stinked in pairs.

Stella, you need to work harder on your sad face.

Momma kept muttering things about feeling claustrophobic in our tiny spa room.

What does 'personal space' mean momma?

Love,

Stella and Gunther

It takes an entire family to raise a brat...er baby!

2010-07-13T06:50:00.000-07:00

Our sweet baby Newman is tiring out the Smush Face family!

Momma Betty has been shouldering most of the discipline.

Sometimes momma Betty gets worn out always keeping after junior,

So she recruits the help of Stella and Gunther.

It doesn't seem to do much good though. He runs to momma and pretends he's a perfect angel that is always picked on.

And then when he thinks momma and daddy aren't looking, he turns into bratula.

Okay, so maybe I like him a little...

Annoyed,

Rini

Pawdicure

2010-07-12T09:37:00.000-07:00

Rini has the longest nail beds momma has ever seen!

So yesterday momma decided instead of trying to fight it, why not accentuate the positive?

I'm too sexy for my nails.

Daddy says everyone is going to think Rini is a hoochie now...

Lot's of Love,

Stella, Gunther and Betty

Why does momma bother?

2010-07-10T07:38:00.000-07:00

*sigh*

That's the sound momma makes every time she walks in the kitchen and sees that either Newman or Rini has marked 'their' rug.

Newman is in the doghouse. Kinda. More like the dog shelf...

Who me momma? I'd never pee on the rug. Must have been Rini!

Newman isn't as sneaky as Ms. Rini. She pretends likes she's gonna sit down then pees. She's what you'd call a pee pee ninja.

I swear I'm not peeing. I'm just sitting here minding my own business. In fact, what are you looking at?!

You all know how boys are. Can't do laundry correctly to save their life. So momma has recruited Rini to help with the loads of laundry she has to do now.

Hey, if ya wanna pee pee, ya gotta pay. Right? Isn't that how it works?

It's a wonder we have time to blog with all the supervising we have to do.

It's so hard being perfect....

Yaawwwnn.. oh, excuse us.

Stella, Gunther and Betty

Showing Junior the Ropes

2010-07-08T07:14:00.000-07:00

Since Newman arrived and turned our world upside down (we're ALL in love with him!), he decided right away that Betty is his momma.

He suckles her every chance he gets. And not just on her tummy, whatever part of her is available. Like her neck, her elbow or her big ole butt... it doesn't matter to him.

And she takes her job as momma very serious. She's raising Newman up to be a strapping young man.

Starting with proper behavior while out shopping,

She's working on getting him to sit still for a picture.

It's so hard bringing up kids these days!

Love,

The Smushies

Just a bunch of Bull

2010-07-07T06:38:00.000-07:00

Momma doesn't understand why people do silly things.

Like this for example...

She thinks Running of the Pugs would be a lot safer and more fun!

Butt if some people think being skewered in the wazoo by a giant angry bull is fun, well that's just dandy. To each their own.

Hugs and kisses from the Smushies!!

Stella, Gunther and Betty

Recovering from the 4th of July

2010-07-05T15:03:00.000-07:00

This was Betty and Newman's first 4th of July. Momma was ~~extremely~~ a little worried about how they would react with the fireworks. They did great! In fact, they were pretty unimpressed with the whole thing...

In other news, momma thinks she has found an ideal furever home for Ms. Rini. She hasn't got that many applications for our golden girl, but as the seasoned volunteers at the French Bulldog Rescue Network say, it only takes one great application. Momma will keep everyone updated so you can say your proper au revior.

Gunther has recovered nicely from his ~~attention gettin~~g bee sting. He still has a bump under his eye where he got stung. For the most part he's staying out of trouble.

As for me, well I'm still trying to find a peaceful place to take a nap.

Love,

Stella

Ribbit... Ribbit

2010-07-02T20:37:00.000-07:00

They don't call Frenchies 'Frog Dogs' for nothin'!

Check out those frog legs.

Such a cutie patootie, Ms. Rini.

TGIF!

Shannon and the Smushies

We love our super daddy!

2010-07-01T15:25:00.000-07:00

Our brother from another mother Sal got us thinking about how much we love our daddy.

He greets us with a big smile everyday when he comes home from work. Usually he doesn't even put his stuff down before we jump in his lap to say hello.

And he's always up for a good snuggle.

Thanks super daddy! We love you,

Stella, Gunther and Betty

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-29T22:45:00.000-07:00

(Betty's favorite way to sit while riding in the car)

Back to the ER Vet

2010-06-29T07:26:00.000-07:00

After eating the bee to get extra attention, Gunther was at the vet 2 times with momma yesterday. The swelling under and around his eye just wasn't getting better and in some areas it was getting worse.

This is no way to get attention Gunther!

I'm sick of these interlopers gettin' all the attention. I think I'll nibble on this bee and watch momma freak out... he he he.

Of course Gunther didn't think that was enough worrying on momma's part, so he waited until 'after hours' and scratched near his eye.

Holy puss party Bat Man! The amount of ooze coming out of Gunther's swollen area around his eye was nasty !

Momma had this look.

Gunther sure is vying for Momma time because he earned himself a trip back to the vet. That makes 3 times in one day! That must be a record.

Well, Gunther must have known what he was doing because the doc said by scratching himself, he allowed all the ooze to drain out. Gunther got some antibiotic eye ointment and a pain killer so momma could sit with him with a warm compress on his eye.

Momma was worried how Gunther would look this morning, but we were all happy to see that Gunther's swelling has gone down significantly. Momma gave Gunther his 427 pills and then sat with him with a warm compress.

Now he's ~~out cold~~ resting comfortably after getting his pain pill.

The moral of the story furriends, NEVER eat bees to get extra attention from momma.

Love,

Stella

Stella's dress - NOT FOR BRUTUS' EYES!

2010-06-24T15:51:00.000-07:00

Stella had a custom wedding dress made by the famous dress maker Punchy.

Doesn't she look gorgeous?

And Punchy did such a great job with the measurements we sent. Particularly around Stella's neck.

There's nothing wrong with my neck.

We're so tickled with how Stella's dress turned out!

Betty loves it too, we might have to get Punchy to make her one.

You guys should visit Punchy's Etsy Store. She has lot's of beautiful dresses and clothes for smush faces and other pooches.

Love,

Shannon

Gunther is 4 years old today!

2010-06-22T09:36:00.000-07:00

Not to be overlooked by the arrival of Mr. Paul Newman...

Today is Gunther's 4th birthday!

Happy Birthday to our best little man and greatest brother to his sisters in the whole world.

Go ahead, sing along to the smushies favorite birthday song.

This one is for you Gunther. We love you!

Love, momma and daddy

For all our furiends

2010-06-18T17:00:00.000-07:00

For all our furiends who are involved in rescue or support rescue, we'll all be able to relate to this video.

This is one of FBRN's graduates. Get your tissues ready!

Remember When Wednesday...

2010-06-09T06:51:00.000-07:00

Having Rini makes momma remember when we had our long term foster El Guapo.

Remember him?

He was our easiest foster (once momma got his skin issues under control).

We all miss him so much still. Momma says if for whatever reason he had to come back, he'd be a permanent member of our family!

We wonder if any of you had that ONE foster that took a little bigger piece of your heart than the rest?

Love,

Stella, Gunther and Betty

Momma and ME time.

2010-06-07T08:32:00.000-07:00

Okay, I can admit some smushies aren't as ~~spoiled~~ fortunate as us to have great ~~slaves~~ parents. But why do I have to share my ~~slave~~ momma?

Aren't I the ~~fartiest~~ cutest?

I'm long overdue for some ME time.

*sigh* I think I'll lay here and pout until momma is overcome with guilt.

What? Is that you calling for me momma?!

You and me got a date with Target? Oh you do ~~worship~~ love me!

Momma, pass the Mocha, will ya?

Note from Betty's ~~slave~~ mom, everyone is getting along with our Foster Rini. There have been a few 'discussions' as to each one's place in the house, but nothing serious or aggressive in nature. And it's mostly been between Gunther and Rini and the two have determined Gunter is most definitely top dog in this house! The most notable behavior, however is Betty needing mommy time. LOL!

Lot's of Hugs,

Shannon

Happy Memorial Day Weekend!

2010-05-31T13:47:00.000-07:00

We've been laying low so Gunther can rest his sprained back.

Betty sunbathed

And tried out her new pool.

Did we mention Gunther was resting?

While we waited for daddy to get home from work, Stella had a fitting for her custom wedding dress by Pugpossessed .

Mom, do you have to display my measurements?!

Did we mention Gunther rested?

On Sunday, we all went with daddy to check on his grapes and blueberries.

We saw a lot of grapevines.

Daddy said it'll be several more months before we see any grapes.

French wine?

We think this would be a lovely place to hold Stella and Brutus' wedding. Don't cha think?

This is one of many Barn Owls at daddy's vineyard. Can you see him through the round opening?

Down below are daddy's blueberries. That's where we're heading next.

Oh yeah, did we mention Gunther was taking it easy?

That's a lotta blueberries!

Then we headed home so we could BBQ. Gunther and Betty made sure to supervise daddy in the kitchen.

Stella has to fit into her wedding dress, so she's staying away from snacking. She chose to get a few rays before dinner.

Then momma got the nicest surprise. She got a phone call from Anakin, Izzy and Josie's mom! Anakin still isn't feeling like himself, so it'd be really nice to stop over and give him some hugs and kisses.

Love,

Stella, Gunther and Betty

Feeeed me Seymour!

2010-05-25T21:54:00.000-07:00

Momma, does it bite?

This time of year we have 'European artichokes'. They're huge and practically a meal in itself .

Momma and daddy love them. Funny though, when they eat them, they can go toot for toot with Betty.

No way, no one can out toot me.

Love,

Stella

Gunther taken out by killer gopher.

2010-05-24T15:26:00.000-07:00

There's been a battle brewing in our yard.

We used to have a nice lawn with lot's of wispy grass we called Pugtopia.

Until this beastly creature came along. The Gopher.

Now our yard looks like this...

Gunther pretty much sums up what we all think of this rat bastard gopher!

I keep shoveling dirt and rocks in the holes so the smushies don't step in one and hurt themselves while they're practicing wrestle mania, but the little terrorist can dig faster than I can keep up with him.

Finally, on Saturday, Gunther must have tripped or caught his leg in one of the booby traps left by the gopher and hurt himself. We took him to the ER vet on Sunday, but the vet on call didn't evoke the most confidence or reassurance. Our regular vet this morning determined that Gunther sprained his lower back muscles.

Oh momma's poor baby!

That's it! No one messes with my baby! Time to call in reinforcements.

It's Super Daddy!

I'm a wuss. So Bruce had to set the traps.

Underneath that Begonia pot and tied to that rope is a world of hurt waiting for the terrorist.

That's right Gunther baby. Momma is handing out lollipops and ass whoopins' and today I'm all out of lollipops...

Gunther was prescribed a nice anti-inflammatory and 2 weeks of no activity.

What? Two weeks of no wrestle mania?

The girls promised to keep Gunther man company. I think they're really sitting court side, waiting to see what happens with the terrorist.

Dr. Stephens said Gunther didn't do any permanent damage to his back, but he sure is sore. As much as we hate to do it, the gopher has to go.

That's right gopher. We're coming for you!

Stay tuned,

The Smushies' Daddy and Momma.

Silly Sunday

2010-05-23T08:58:00.000-07:00

No chips were harmed in the making of this post.

Stella, Gunther and Betty

Anakin needs our positive thoughts and prayers.

2010-05-20T10:52:00.000-07:00

Our very sweet friend Anakin had to have surgery on his tummy last week.

He came through just great and everyone in his family and all his furiends were so happy. But now he's having complications and was rushed back into surgery yesterday. He's not feeling great right now.

His mom and dad are so worried about him. So if you could sneak over and say hello to them they sure could use some cheering up.

Stella, Gunther, Betty and Shannon

Pouty Wednesday

2010-05-19T06:32:00.000-07:00

The highness is pouting.

She was told in a few days she's going to have to share her Frenchland Pooptopia.

We tried to explain it's only temporary until he finds his own kingdom. Despite all our reasoning, we were given the royal stink eye.

Her most loyal poo poo subjects,

Stella and Gunther

Animal Planet Documentary about Petland. Not to be Missed!

2010-05-17T12:03:00.000-07:00

Animal Planet Investigates Petland

Monday, May 17th at 10:00 p.m

This is Hank's mom reminding everyone to NOT shop at stores that sell puppies.

The documentary that Animal Planet is airing tonight hits very close to home for our family. In 2005 we happened to see a very small, frail and yet energetic pug in the window at a Petland owned sister store. We knew walking past him without a second though was an impossibility so we went inside to inquire about him. He had been there for 2 months and he was sick with 'kennel cough'.

The manager practically paid us to take him home. He was our first pug. We named him Tookie.

Talk about personality plus!

But, he was coughing ALL the time. We went to the vet every week. And sometimes 2x a week. I was determined to find out why he couldn't kick his cough and I was tired of hearing it was a case of stubborn kennel cough.

We kept a sweater on him most of the time to see if that helped keep his cough under control. Eh, it didn't, but he sure looked cute!

His cough seemed to get better in the summer so we were optimistic maybe Tookie had finally kicked this thing. We were finally starting to let him play more. Everytime he played too much before, he would cough so hard we were afraid he'd have trouble breathing.

One of his favorite things to do was lounge in the sun and wait for one of us to come play with him.

But when fall rolled around again and we had our first chilly day, his cough came back full swing. We returned to the vet. And this time we were referred to a specialist that would perform all kinds of tests that would get to the bottom of Tookie's problems.

I met with the vet in the morning who explained the types of tests she would be doing on Tookie. They were all routine and we would be able to pick him up later that afternoon. I felt really good about finally getting some answers for our little man. Tookie really liked this vet too. He was jumping and spinning around the exam room trying to impress her. He was such a flirt!

That afternoon, Bruce came home early so we could go pick up Tookie together. When I called the vet to see when he'd be ready, the receptionist said they'd have to call us back because the doctor was in with an emergency.

Ten minutes later our phone rang and it was the doctor. Her voice was shaky and she said she was so sorry to tell us that the emergency was our Tookie. While performing a routine procedure, inserting a small camera down his throat so they could get a clear picture of his lungs, a mucous plug dislodged from a hole in Tookie's lung. He went into cardiac arrest. They were performing life saving moves to keep him alive but it didn't look good. There were many mucous plugs filling holes in his lungs. We decided to let him go since he was already under anesthesia and not in any pain.

We took Stella and went down to the vet's office to say goodbye to Tookie. It was the first time I had ever seen my husband cry. He was our baby and there was nothing we could do to make him better. We were devastated.

Tookie crossed the Rainbow Bridge 2 days after his 1st birthday.

The vet's final examination revealed that he had been suffering from sever lung disease his entire life. She believed he was born with it. Our vet was so upset by what happened she went to bat for us with Petland and found out indeed he came from a 'breeder' that operated as a puppy mill. Petland knew this and even returned all our money for vet bills, etc. But no amount of money could bring our Tookie back.

People have to stop importing and buying puppies from puppy mills. They have to stop supporting stores that sell puppies. There are hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats sitting in your local shelter waiting to be adopted. Or you can go through your local rescue group to find your next pet. If you do go through a breeder, make sure you visit them. If they are willing to ship your puppy...run the other way.

In Memory of Tookie

9/24/05 - 9/26/06

Lazy Sunday

2010-05-16T16:19:00.000-07:00

It's too bad we don't have better accommodations for napping...

On another note, mom is sorry she hasn't been helping us blog as much this past week. She has some lame excuse about a cold and catching up on work. Whateva.

We have one thing to say to her if she doesn't shape up.

Stella, Gunther and Betty

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-12T07:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T19:23:00.000-07:00

We want to wish all the moms of 2 legged and four legged kids a very happy Mother's Day.

Dad did something really special for mom this Mother's Day. He got her a Doggyride Dog Jogger so she could take us running with her.

Dad, ya think you might finish in this lifetime?

The open road is callin' my name...

This jogger isn't going to push itself. Chop chop!

Dad loaded our new jogger in the truck so we could all meet up with mom's running group friends.

Is it time for coffee and doughnuts yet?

The best thing about hangin' with mom's running group... there's always an available lap.

Make sure to give your mom lot's of kisses,

Stella, Gunther and Betty

El-oh-el-aye Lola.... la-la-la-la Lola

2010-05-07T20:12:00.000-07:00

This is Lola

Mom's friend and fellow volunteer with The French Bulldog Rescue called and said she knew of an English Bulldog in need of a new home. In short, Lola was looking for a family that could return to her as much love as she had to give.

No way our mom can resist a smush face.

The first thing mom did was ditch the pronged collar Lola was wearing. In her opinion Brachycephal dogs shouldn't wear choke collars to be walked, but particularly pronged collars as it could easily damage their necks and airway.

Not to mention Lola was one of the easiest dogs she's ever walked! And to her chagrin, she was better behaved on the leash than the 3 of us. BOL! The need for the pronged choker still has mom scratching her head. Maybe mom just has fleas, who knows.

Mom found the most perfect home for her. Lola's new family could hardly wait for us to go down to Orange County to pick her up and bring her back up to the Central Coast.

It's a good thing Lola had a home waiting for her. Betty is enjoying being numero uno Queenie Bulldog Poo Poo eater...

We're not keeping her, right?!

To keep things from getting out of hand, like impromptu Smushface Wrestlemania while rollin' down the freeway, mom said Lola had to enjoy the ride while relaxing in her crate.

Smushface Wrestlmania in the car? Us? She crazy.

Nooooo body knows the trouble that I've seen...

After like 5 thousand hours, we finally got a potty and snack break half way home.

Lola tastin' freedom.

This is our favorite Uncle Chuck. He loves us so much and was so excited to meet Lola, he met mom down in Oxnard to help escort us on our potty break. We tend to attract a LOT of attention where ever we go, so mom figured Uncle Chuck could help with crowd control.

Uncle Chuck, make sure the puperatzzi gets my good side. Eh, who are we kidding, I don't have a bad side.

We had a schedule to keep, so mom refueled the Smushie Mobile and off we went for the home stretch.

This rescue stuff is tiring.

After another 5 thousand hours, Lola got to meet some members of her new furever family.

Now, the final test... to see how Winston, the most important member of the family liked Lola.

Mom called in reinforcements to oversee the introductions. Some of you might remember our 22ft. tall dog trainer, Nate.

And we're walkin'.... What did you all expect? We're civilized English Bulldogs, unlike those unpredictable and ill tempered French.

Ho hummm. No problems here. Lola and Winston (or Bubby as he's called) were quite happy to learn they were going to be roomies.

Mom already got emails and stuff from Lola sayin' she spent her first night getting destanked. She also over heard she had an appointment scheduled at the V E T the following day. At first we were all upset and wanted to go get her. But then mom told us to hold our snorts because Lola got to sleep in the same bed with her mom and dad. That's a huge difference from where she came from.

We're looking forward to getting pupdates from Lola and her family. If mom had her way, every dog would find a family as wonderful as Lola's...

Love,

Stella, Gunther and Betty

I DO!

2010-05-05T07:22:00.000-07:00

All it took was one look, and I was head over curly tail.

I'm talking about my love, Brutus the Frenchie.

He's just not a pretty face, but how can we overlook the obvious!

He has quite a cute little tooshie.

It must be from all that running around he does...

I felt like such a lucky Puglet when he professed his love for me.

I wasted no time in confessing my love for him too.

It's hard sometimes having a long distance relationship.

Especially when you have Gunther always peering over your shoulder...

But as they say, absence makes the heart grow fonder. And unbeknownst to me, my sweet Brutus was out shopping and making plans for our future.

Since he couldn't be here himself, he had my package specially delivered from Ohio..

I was very worried the delivery truck wouldn't fit in the driveway! And how was I going to keep Gunther away from it? We all remember what happened with the mail truck.

I could barely contain my excitement when my package was loaded off the truck!

I wanted to savor this moment without Gunther and Betty asking a bunch of questions, so I opted for a little privacy in the den.

Oh my! A beautiful Tiffany's diamond necklace! Mom, help me put it on.

I feel like a princess.

Before I open this box, I need to read Brutus' letter.

Hand me a tissue, will you? My heart is all in a flutter!

Brutus, yes I will marry you!!!

I am the happiest Pug girl alive!

xoxo

Stella

Our Blogger friends are the best!

2010-05-03T15:14:00.000-07:00

Mom just can't say enough wonderful things about our blogger furiends.

On Friday, a package was left at the gate from our good furiend Winston.

We were wondering if he swam here and delivered it himself! Naaa, he would have at least come inside and stayed for dinner.

Mom was beyond excited when she opened the wrapping. She turned to us and said "finally, something for me and not for you guys."

What?! You mean this box of chocolates isn't for us? But Winston is our furiend.

A chocolate ninja must have broken into the house..

I've never seen anything disappear so fast. We don't think dad even got a piece.

Winston I know our mom would love to thank you herself. But she's still coming in and out from her chocolate coma.

On Saturday, we received another surprise in the mail from our blogger furiend Pugsley, Lola and their mom Heather.

We were hoping it wasn't something else mom was going to bogart! I mean, you can understand our concerns since it was addressed to her.

It wasn't something we could eat or play with... it was even better! An homage paid to none other.

Mom said she's going to hang it in her office. Here we are posing with it so you can get idea of how big it is.

Mom loves it! And one of her favorite colors is orange, so she said all her favorite things rolled into one (who is she kidding, if it was made out of chocolate it'd be perfect, no offense Heather).

Stella got something very very special in the mail over the weekend too. An armored truck had to deliver it. She'll post about it later.

Thanks again to Winston's and Pugsley and Lola's family for our wonderful gifts. We absolutely love them and appreciate your furiendship so much!

Love,

Stella, Gunther and Betty

All Hail the Queen

2010-04-29T10:21:00.000-07:00

Queen Betty of Pooptopia and all that's gassy and farty in her Frenchdom.

Don't try to fool me with your powdered ca ca deterrents. I love the extra flavor they add to my heavenly lawn sausages.

I thank you for adding it to my minions food too. Because now their brown loafs satisfy my distinguished tastes.

Excuse me? Did someone say something?

I must be going. A Queen's duties are never done.

Betty

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

Pug Power to the People!

Tough Weekend

2010-04-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

Anyone else have a hard weekend staying cool and making sure they got their rest?

Slurps,

Stella, Gunther and Betty

Dreaming the weekend away...

2010-04-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

Magnum P. Who?

2010-04-23T10:35:00.000-07:00

You think that's a nice car? Hardly.

Check out our new ride... Yup yup. She's a beaut.

I know our good friend Hanklin is going to be bent out of shape when he sees how roomy it is. Specially after he got squeezed into the green machine with his sis Ms. Molly O' Mally.

You wouldn't know our Pugillac started out so compact.

Off comes the cover and with the pull of a strap...

Badda Bing. But wait, there's more!

Poles extend up to attach a canopy for shade.

Notice the trunk Hanklin? That'll hold a lot of beer.

No beer for us this weekend though. Something about Stella's sweetie Brutus popping a question and now we need to go shopping so she can find a dress. Blah blah blah. I don't know... I'm sure she'll want to show everyone when we get back from our shopping torture. At least we have a cool ride to hang in.

You ain't got nuthin' on us Magnum P.U!
Gunther

She's Baaack!

2010-04-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

Meet Maxy

2010-04-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

This pleasingly plumpalicious, no neck, cutie pie is Stella's sister.

Notice the resemblance?

She lives in Southern California with good friends of our family.

What a diva!

We're hoping Stella will get to catch up with her sister this summer.

They can spend some time comparing necks (or lack of...)

Happy Hump Day!

Excuse Me?

2010-04-20T13:15:00.000-07:00

They put the thermometer where?!

Miss Droopy Ear

2010-04-19T18:47:00.000-07:00

It may not seem like much, but when Betty's ear is droopy we know she's still a little under the weather and feeling tired.

It's getting perkier for longer amounts of time each day which means she's feeling better. She's also wrestling with Stella and Gunther again.

Stella is willing that ear, dang it... We miss our bat girl.

She did recycle some poop today. A sure sign she's getting back to her ole self.

Love,

Shannon and the Smushies

Betty has the Blues

2010-04-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

Betty hasn't been feeling well.

She is suffering from

Potassium Bromide Toxicity again.

The signs started showing around Tuesday and were undeniable by Friday morning.

Her vet has been trying to slowly reduce the amount of PB she takes to a more appropriate level for her size. When we adopted her, she was on 500mg. A dog her size is only supposed to be on appx. 250mg. Before she got sick with PB Toxicity this 2nd time, she was down to 400mg, but it was still too much.

Friday afternoon Dr. Stephens reduced her PB in half. He also considered flushing her system with saline solution, but since she was still able to walk and function normally he decided against it.

Friday night was the first night Betty didn't get her PB pill. I must admit I was so anxious that without it, she would have a seizure. But she did just fine through the night.

Today she is already showing some signs of improvement. But she's still not feeling very well.

Nurse Stella has been by her side making sure she's comfortable while I'm working in the office.

I realize it might be tempting to send a care package, but the ~~fat~~ little ones are still following their diet. No foodables allowed. Unless it's a box of Sees candy for the management...

Shannon

April 15th

2010-04-15T14:48:00.000-07:00

Happy tax everybody.

We hope this Uncle Sam character didn't stick it to you too bad.

Betty declined to be participate in this all American post since she's french...

Stella and Gunther

Pee S - Please send foodables.

Wheezy Wednesday

2010-04-14T11:45:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year when everything is blooming and coming back to life. The butterflies are emerging out of their cocoons. The birds are singing. And Gunther is filling the house with the sweet sounds of his hacking backwards sneezing...

Who would have thought the only one in the house to get full blown allergies was Gunther..

We've had a couple of really bad wind storms over the past week, so a lot of dust and pollen has been blown around.

Yeah, yeah, it's definitely time for a better vacuum.

Gunther's imploding sneezes warranted a visit with the doc, which wasn't so bad. He prescribed some Tavist 1 for his allergies and sneezing. The bummer however is that each chunk muffin got their turn on the scale.

They've all gained a pound.

Now everyone is on a shhhh.... diet.

And there is much protesting going on.

If anyone receives emails or letters asking to send foodables, please ignore them.

Thank you,

The Management