Comfort Zone

As the school year is coming to a close, this will be my last blog post assignment for my English class. I'm debating whether to continue with the blog or possibly start a different blog that I can keep going better. It's been a good experience for me, not only as a writer, but as a person. Writing about dogs and having to think about them a little more than I normally would has strengthened my relationship with my dog. I spend more time with him than I was before blogging, and I have a different perspective on (wo)man's best friend.

I found Cosmo napping on my blanket . . .

These past seven or eight months have been nothing but change, and it's all been a benefit for me. From starting mountain biking and snowboarding, to moving and going to a new school, it's pushed me out of my comfort zone more times than not. This blog including. I really struggled when picking the topic to blog about. I thought about blogging about my life and all of the changes occurring, learning to snowboard and/or mountain bike, my love for music, and about dozen other ideas. But when it came down to it, I knew that I had a passion for dogs and that even though it would be difficult for me, I would find joy in writing every week or so about these furry creatures.

Because of all of the good that has come out of me going outside of my comfort zone, I encourage you to do the same. Whether its getting off the couch and exercising, talking to new people, trying new food, or facing your fears, I can promise you that you will benefit from new experiences. From week to week, it became more and more challenging to talk about dogs because I have such general knowledge on them. Thinking this would be an easy assignment, I realized that I actually had to use my brain a little to think about what I was writing ;). But really, from post to post, I wrote from my own thoughts and experience which is something I usually don't get to do for school. It was a pretty neat opportunity.

Selfie of enjoying the FINALLY warm weather.

Anyways, thanks for reading my blog. I hope you've enjoyed hearing about silly Cosmo that I love so much and my opinions on dogs. Get outside, ideally with your best friend (dog), and enjoy the wonderful world we live in. Goodbye for now!

Just Smile a Little

As I've continued this blog for my English assignment, I've realized that it is difficult to come up with twenty or so different ideas focused around dogs. Lately I've been thinking about life, as one does, and I've decided to incorporate some of those thoughts into my blog.

In life, people strive for perfect happiness rather than being content with the circumstances brought upon them. I'm not sure why humans have this desire for perfection. When I look at my dog, no matter what's going on, he's smiling from ear to ear. He gets excited over small things like butt rubs or meeting new people. Now dogs aren't quite at the same intelligence level as humans, and they don't really ever think of having a different life. But why can't all humans just enjoy the little things in life like dogs do? The small things like sitting outside on a quiet, warm day petting my dog. I think the whole human race would be a lot more pleasant if we were to surround ourselves with those who make us happy. For me, that would be my dog. Spending some time outdoors with Cosmo improves my mood by 1000%. Lately I've just been trying to be happy and positive as often as I can. Even in times when I'm riding the school bus, I listen to my music and watch the beautiful mountain scenery flash past me and I enjoy life. Or when people complain about having to go to school, although I'd rather be doing something more fun, I'm grateful that I'm allowed an education so easily compared to a lot of the world.

Photo Credit: Picture Quotes

Another aspect of life that we can take from dogs is judgement. Being in the ninth grade, judgement is a big part of my life. As I moved recently for the first time in my life, not knowing anyone has given me the great experience of realizing I can't judge anyone before I get to know them. I find that this is one of the reasons humans enjoy dogs so much. No matter who you are, if you love your dog, they will love you. Any dog I see is happy for me to pet them while they sniff the smells on my clothes. A dog will be friendly and loving towards you until you give them a reason not to. I wish humans reacted the same way to one another. John Grogan, in his book Marley & Me, said, "A dog has no use for fancy cars, big homes, or designer clothes. A water log stick will do just fine. A dog doesn't care if you're rich or poor, clever or dull, smart or dumb. Give him your heart and he'll give you his. How many people can you say that about? How many people can make you feel rare and pure and special? How many people can make you feel extraordinary?" Whether I'm reading the book or watching the movie, this quotes, without a doubt, always brings me to tears. I'm so thankful for my dog. He really is the best friend I could ever have. I wouldn't be the same person without him. He knows me for who I am and loves me still.

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

This all sounds rather silly. Dogs are, to some people, loud, dirty, mindless animals that slobber and make messes. But there's this deep connection you can have with your dog. One that some people just won't understand. Never once can you have a verbal conversation with your dog (or at least one that they will understand ;) ), yet between your dog and you, you know each other so well. My dog and I understand one another- we love each other. Yet we've never spoken to each other. It's crazy, actually. We can sit next to one another in utter silence being the happiest friends on Earth. Imagine if humans would save their words only for when they are needed. People blabber on and on wasting their words trying to become loved and accepted, when all you need to do is find a connection with someone. I find my favorite friends are the ones I can have meaningful conversations with, but I can also sit and do nothing with them and still find happiness everywhere I look.

So there's a slice of a fifteen-year-old's mediocre thoughts on life.

Hairy Hair

Hair. It's everywhere. It won't go away. I'm afraid it never will go away. Dog hair, that is.

Cosmo has a serious problem with shedding. Sure, we could probably brush him more and vacuum more often to reduce the amount of hair around, but there's just not enough time in the day! There's more important things to do with my life! But I'm dead serious- this hair will always haunt me. When I go somewhere in public, like school, my clothes are always coated in dog hair. When I'm on vacation I find dog hair. When Cosmo sleeps on bed I have to wash my sheets because of all of the hair. Even if I just sit on the floor or on a couch, my butt and back becomes entirely white with dog hair! It's a serious problem.

As you can probably tell, neither me or my family likes Cosmo's hair. My mom thinks we should get a Labradoodle for our next dog because that way the dog will have characteristics of a lab, but a lot less shedding! Although my friend who owns a Labradoodle just had her dog shaved because they hadn't been brushing her hair and it became matter....

Photo Credit: Candi Kellmer

When we empty the vacuum, it's just fools of dirt and dog hair. Cosmo's hair even comes out in chunks!! It's crazy!! My friend Gracie and I once filled a jar full of his hair chunks that were falling out! Everywhere I go, his hair goes... I guess there's just not much anyone can do about it. There's not a ton of things about him that annoys me, but his hair is definitely one of them. Along with his snoring and twitching he's doing right now... Better get to bed! Although this was more of a ranting post... I'd like your guys' opinion on the best way to keep order with dog hair!

The Varsity Pets

Now I often joke about Cosmo's weight talking about how fat he is. But in all honesty, it's a problem, and it's not his fault. As a family, we were not very good dog owners when we were raising Cosmo, and we never got him enough exercise. We've seen the outcome from that, and although Cosmo is such a happy dog, we know he's not healthy. At this point in his life, there's not a ton we can do to get him to better health, although we'll still try our best.

America today does not recognize that we are obese among ourselves, but we are also influencing the obesity in dogs. A friend of my parents is trying to bring this to people's attention and solve the problem with his company he started. This company, Varsity Pets, gives a few different options to help keep your dogs in shape or help them get to that stage.

The main product the company has to offer is The Varsity Ball. The Varsity Ball is indestructible- guaranteed! Dogs go through so many toys that are said to be indestructible but get torn apart in seconds when they get ahold of it. There have been thousands sold, and not a single one has been busted! The other nice thing about this toy is that it is fun for the dog, but you are not needed for the dog to play with it. Plus there's sizes for smaller dogs! They're even made in the USA.

How The Varsity Ball works

Drool Fuel! Drool Fuel is a supplement for dogs that builds lean muscle, fights dehydration, burns fat, and will help your furry friend become faster, stronger, and live longer. There is more information on the supplement and why it is beneficial for dogs of all kinds here.

The Drool Fuel packets!

A new book coming out this summer, "Fit Dogs Live Forever" by the found of Varsity Pets Daniel Schulof, discusses the canine obesity epidemic that is occurring- a great read to be more informed on how you can give your dog the best life they can have and how obesity effects dogs so greatly.

"Fit Dogs Live Forever" by Daniel Schulof

Their new app that will be available this summer as well, Kibblr, will enable you to record information about your dog. You fill out your dog's profile page and Kibblr will tell you the actual amount of food your dog needs. You will be able to track your dog's weight loss and receive fitness tips! You can also read The Optimal Blog to read up on dog health.

The Kibblr app coming soon!

With all of these products, we can end the obesity epidemic upon canines and help dogs receive their full potential in life by living long and healthy. Support Varsity Pets and go have fun with your dog!

Photo Credit for all pictures: Varsity Pets

life is good

This post is more of an update on Cosmo than anything else. I may sound repetitive to previous posts, but not a lot has been happening with Cosmo; it's been a pretty typical week.

Well, the weather is becoming warmer and warmer every day, which means the trails are drying up! I was able to finally hit the trails on my mountain bike! Even though it is supposed to be colder and possibly Sunday, the warmer weather is still upon us. I've even been able to sleep with my windows open and wake up to the chirping birds and squeaking squirrels. This means it is time to really get Cosmo into shape! I was able to take him on three walks this week- Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Although he struggles as we pass by dogs happily sprinting through the fields off to the side of the trails, I know Cosmo definitely enjoys being out of the house sniffing what he can. It's definitely a peaceful time for me during my hectic school week to just relax and enjoy life outside with my dog. Anyhow, I think he's gradually picking up his walking pace and building his endurance.

Cosmo and I are both not in the best shape we could be, so I think if I dedicate time to myself and to Cosmo, him and I will be happier by this time next year. Living in Park City, I find it much more enjoyable and motivating to get your exercise in. Instead of running, walking, or biking through a neighborhood with traffic and pollution, there's so many trails throughout the mountain that you can enjoy yourself and the fresh air while still getting a work out in. Everyone is so much friendlier than typical cities where people are not as active. The best part, is that I swear every single person living in Park City owns at least one dog- it's so awesome. I love where I live.

Lately, Cosmo has been such a pain to have sleep on my bed. Like I've mentioned previously, he gets so annoying in the middle of the night and wakes me up. But I feel so sad for him when no one wants him in their room at night and lays out in the hall all alone, so I usually give in and let him sleep on my bed. When I help him up onto my bed, he likes to find a spot to sleep in the dead center. IT'S RIDICULOUS. I saw this picture and thought it went perfectly with my scenario.

Photo Credits: Cafe Press

I'm excited to finally just take a break and explore Park City a bit over this spring break- maybe I'll find an easy hike to take Cosmo on. But for now, life is great. Cosmo is still as happy as ever, spring is more or less here, and I get a week off from school. Enjoy the warm weather approaching- take advantage of it by getting outside with your wet-nosed friends!

Summer Fever

Living in Utah, I get to experience all four seasons, and although spastic at times, I love it. Every day creates a new adventure according to the temperature and precipitation. But as much as I love winter and spring, I am dying for summer. It is practically April, and it is snowing right now. I've lived in Utah my whole life, so I've even seen snowfall in July, but I just want the snow to go away, the grass to grow, and the weather to become warm. The only reason I wish for it to be warmer is so that I can actually do stuff! Sure, skiing and snowboarding is great, but I haven't even been able to hit the slopes very often because of my school schedule, and I can't do it with Cosmo! I love waking up in the summer with the sun just barely entering the sky, a full night of rest, and no worries on my mind- ready for what the day will bring me. But with school and cold weather, none of that is possible except for an occasional Saturday or Sunday. If it doesn't stop snowing, I can't take Cosmo on walks to get him into shape without him being miserable and getting too cold, and I won't be able to have my exploring buddy when I have summer adventures.

The next few days... Drat!

I miss when Cosmo could go on long backpacking trips with my family and me; I knew that's where he was truly happy, and so was I. Being with my dog in the mountains far away from any care in the world is all I want in life right now. Whether we would be hiking, relaxing by the lake, exploring the area, cooking food over the fire, or sleeping in our tent, Cosmo and I would always have a grand time out in the wilderness. The next dog that I get, I will be sure to keep in great shape so that he can adventure and explore with me at any given moment until he is much older than Cosmo. I will always cherish the blissful moments I've had with Cosmo in the great outdoors, and I hope we can create a few more before he is too old to do so.

Best Friend Responsibilities

I tend to talk about Cosmo sleeping a lot, but that's one of the few talents, haha. In one of my first blogs, I talked about how he slept on his own mattress in my room because I didn't have real furniture yet. Well, now I have a new, large bed that I've decided to let him share it with me at night. Now, because my bed is taller than any of my past beds, he can't jump on to it by himself.

The process in which I have to help him is rather exhausting. I have to make sure my blankets and pillows are all in the right place, because there's no moving them once Cosmo is on my bed. In order to get him on my bed, I have to first lift the front of his body up so that his front paws are on my bed and he is nearly standing. Then I have to run behind him and lift the rear of his body up on to the bed while he simultaneously jumps to the best of his ability. After that, I have to jump on to "my side" of the bed so that he leaves enough room for me to sleep- once he lays down, it's pretty darn hard to make him move!

A lab sleeping similarly to Cosmo. Photo Credits: VetLIVE

Normally, Cosmo and I sleep like babies at night. But lately, he's been waking me up at all times of night for some reason. I'll wake up to him panting heavily, most likely because it has gotten too hot in the night for him. It's extremely annoying, so I'll turn on my lamp so he can see his surroundings as I try to shove him off of my bed. But as I mentioned before, it's difficult to move him once he is laying down. Usually he just calms back down. If he falls asleep while I'm finishing up my homework, by the time I'm trying to fall asleep, he'll be in a deep sleep and be snoring, twitching, and whimpering through his dreams. I usually try to make him stop long enough for me to fall asleep by shaking him with my foot until he gains conscious. I'll also awake to him sneezing multiple times, or to his notorious sounds-like-he-is-about-to-puke-but-never-does gag. By the time I wake up between 5:45 and 6:15, he is dying to get out of my room so that he can either get breakfast or be let outside. He can be a real pain in the ass sometimes.

Even though he can be bothersome, it's worth it to know he's happily lying down next to me. Not only that, but he helps me when I'm stressed by simply being next to my side. Sometimes if I'm worried or just having a crapy night, I'll lay beside him and pet him for a while in silence just to relieve my stress. But that's what best friends are for, right? To be there for one another and help each other.