The BIG Day!

Ready for a good breakfast to give me energy for the big event!

Telling Callie goodbye as I was leaving for the Walk...she was happy to stay home!

Well, the Walk lived up to my expectations, and I had a grand time! In fact, it was so much fun that I was just too tired to post last night. As soon as we got home, my mom and I took a nap. We desperately needed it since I woke up at 5:15am yesterday just ready to go. Mom wasn't overly thrilled with that wake-up hour, but she understood...well, after she had a cup of coffee.

We got to the Walk around 10am...WOW what a scene! There were dogs and people everywhere, so I became uber-excited to see everyone and everything. My mom said she had a hard time controlling me in the beginning but then I settled down. It was so fun....lots of people came up to me because they recognized me from the posters and t-shirts. I even saw an old friend that lives down the street from my foster family...it was really good to see her again, and I even had my picture taken with her and her friends. I felt so loved! I have to confess being a star is A LOT of fun!

When it came time for the actual Walk to start, lots of people applauded me as I walked from the stage to the start line. Mom was begging me to slow down and not pull so hard, but I was just so excited!! The Durham Bulls mascot, Wool E. Bull, and I led everything off, but we quickly lost him...we were really moving. Plus, I don't think Wool E. Bull enjoyed me mistaking his tail for a giant chew toy. Anyway, my mom and I walked with this nice lady and her dog, Stanley. I was a hot and tired pup when we finished. We hung around awhile longer to watch the fundraising awards be given out...it was awesome to see how many people were so dedicated to raising money for the APS. I know first-hand how important these donations are to the shelter.


Lots of people and dogs walking around Duke's East Campus...and the sun came out!

Oh, I also got an APS alumni bandanna which I am wearing proudly in some of these photos. I also saw many of the shelter staff that were so nice to me when I was staying there...it was great to see them again and show them how I've blossomed in my forever home. Plus, my mom enjoyed introducing me to several of her friends, and I was able to play with some dogs. All in all, it was just a fabulous day, and a big thank-you to everyone who worked so hard to make this event a success. A special shout-out to Mother Nature who cooperated and kept the rain away.

While I originally started this blog to promote the Walk, my mom and I have enjoyed it so much, we are going to keep it going. Check back for updates on my adventures and news on the APS.

Finally, my mom and I were successful in raising $1,100 for our part in the Walk. We are very grateful to those that supported us...most of whom do it annually. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

It was truly an honor for me (as well as a lot of fun...yes, I love attention!) to be the APS Spokesdog. I was so proud to be able to represent this organization that does so much to help the needy animals in our community. In my role, I just hope I was able to give back in some small way to the APS who gave me so much. I can't wait for next year!!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Mom and I celebrating a successful Walk!

Resting after I got home....a tired but happy Spokesdog!

Giddy with excitement!

We are down to 5 days until the Walk!! The APS has raised over $50,000 towards the goal of $80,000 which is terrific. My mom and I have raised over $1,000, and we are SO grateful to everyone who has so generously supported us. We are really excited to participate. My mom told me that I actually get to lead off the Walk...the announcer will tell everyone to follow me as I leave the stage and start the Walk. So fun!! It will be a wonderful day for this very important organization, and I hope to see you there. Fingers crossed the weather cooperates. It is VERY rainy here today....the backyard is full of water, and the rain is still coming down pretty hard, so I can't go outside to play. Bummer. My mom keeps saying we need the rain, but I really love being outside during the spring evenings. Oh well...maybe tomorrow.

I've included some photos of me and Callie enjoying the NC spring weather. I used to just lay on the deck to soak up the sunshine, and then I discovered that the lounge chair is oh-so-much more comfortable! Callie continues to get better....she received a great report at her 4-week check-up which is a relief. She went somewhere called "rehab" today, which Mom keeps saying is expensive but cheaper than paying for our college tuition. Not sure what that means, but I am ready to get my playmate back.

Ok, time for Dancing with the Stars....have to run! Hope to see you Saturday at the Walk for the Animals!!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Happy Mother's Day!

Apparently, today is Mother's Day, and no one told me I was supposed to do special things for my mom to celebrate her. Argh! I found out when my mom asked me if Callie and I were going to bring her breakfast in bed. Callie looked at me as if it was all MY fault since she is still crate-bound and couldn't do anything. However, I argue Callie should have told me since this is my FIRST Mother's Day. After all, this time last year, I didn't have a mom so how was I supposed to know about this day? Even though I dropped the ball, I am very grateful to have a mom. Mom says I am forgiven and that my sweetness and unconditional love is enough for her.

Since this is Mother's Day, I do want to wish all the moms a wonderful day. Most people forget about the "animal moms," so I want to give them a special shout-out, especially to the ones who have rescued animals. Without your generosity and love, so many of us would not have moms to celebrate. And let's also remember there are a lot of motherless animals out there, so please remember to support the APS (or your local shelter) by donating, volunteering, and/or adopting your next pet. I promise you that by adopting homeless animals, every day will be like Mother's Day with all the thanks and love they will give you.

Speaking of support, the Walk (http://www.apsofdurham.org/what-we-do/events-2/walkfortheanimals/) is less than 2 weeks away! My mom has started her fundraising- thanks to all who have donated- and so far, the Walk has raised $33,693 towards the goal of $80,000. I am getting really excited for the big event and hope to see you there. People have been telling my mom they have seen my photo all around Durham. I am a STAR!

Baxter (woof woof!)

P.S. Callie update....she continues to recover and goes back for her 4-week post-op x-rays on Friday. Fingers crossed she gets good news and can start to spend more time out of her crate.

It's Go Time!

My mom told me there are only 20 days left until the Walk! Wow! It seems like only yesterday I was selected as the Walk Spokesdog, and now the big day is near. Time to get the fundraising machine going...

If you are interested in participating, please go to http://www.apsofdurham.org/walk-for-the-animals/#more-10146 to register. While this will be my first time attending (I have no idea where I was last year and glad I don't remember since I was homeless), my mom says it is a lot of fun. The Walk is held on Duke's East Campus where there is plenty of room for people and animals. Plus, there is shade and grass for "business." There are also lots of vendors and just a festive atmosphere as animal lovers unite to raise money for such a worthy cause. I am SO excited to go and be part of this fantastic event! My mom says I will probably wear her out since I tend to get overstimulated when there is a lot happening, but she said she will make sure she has a lot of beer at home for the after-party. Anyway, I do hope you will make plans to join us...and be sure to look for me. I would love to meet as many readers as possible!

In case you are wondering what your dollars do for the shelter, here are some examples:

• $500 provides 40 dogs with heartworm disease tests
• $250 treats 25 dogs for fleas and ticks
• $100 provides a cat with medical treatments needed for adoption
• $65 spays or neuters a pet to help with overcrowded shelters-- this is SO important to ending pet overpopulation!
• $50 feeds all of the cats for one day

So, donations of all sizes are critical since they add up to make a huge difference. My mom and I are really excited about our own fundraising efforts.

On another note, Callie asked me to thank everyone for their get well wishes. She is 2 weeks post-op now and doing well. She had her staples removed on Friday, and she was SO excited to be rid of her "party hat" (a.k.a. e-collar). She is still crate confined and going a little stir crazy, but she has good use of her repaired knee and making great progress. I'm looking forward to getting my playmate back.

Have a good one!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Get Well Soon, Callie!

Well, poor Callie had knee surgery (TPLO to be exact) on Friday, so my mom and I have been consumed with taking good care of her. I always knew Callie had bad knees since she couldn't run with me, but I had never heard of surgery until my mom broke the news to us on Wednesday. My mom took her on Friday morning, and I was really sad...I know my mom was as well, and she was also very worried. However, we got the good news around lunchtime that Callie had done well, and the surgeon was pleased with what he was able to do for her.

Callie came home on Saturday, and my mom says she will have to stay in her crate for 4 weeks. BIG BUMMER. However, if all goes well, then after 4 weeks, she can gradually ease into physical activity again, and hopefully after 8 weeks, she can resume her normal life. Mom and I slept on an air mattress next to her crate the first night. We were going to do that again last night, but it now has a hole in it (I swear I didn't do it!), so we opted for the couch last night.

I have tried to be a really good boy...I don't agitate her...just sit quietly by her kennel. My mom says I have to go into my kennel sometimes, so she can focus on Callie...feeding her, icing her knee down, and just spending time with her. Callie was sporting a bright yellow bandage, but she had that removed today, so the incision can heal. She does have to wear this large plastic collar, so she won't lick her wound or pull her stitches out. She looks kind of funny, but I also feel really sorry for her because I know she doesn't like it. Anyway, I hope she heals fast and ask that all of you send her good wishes. My mom says this is not going to be easy, but the end result will be worth it.

The Walk is rapidly approaching, and I will post about that in a few days. Right now, my mom wants to walk me around the block before it gets dark. We've had a couple of long nights, so I think she is hoping Callie and I will go to bed early, so she can, too.

Baxter (woof woof!)

Blue Devils and Turtles (no, not the kind from Maryland!)

Well, Duke did it. It was an eventful night in my household on Monday. Callie and I were very worried about my mom because we had never seen her act that way. She was VERY tense, pacing, yelling, and cheering. When Duke finally won the thriller of a game, we all jumped and down in celebration. I jumped up on the couch to give my mom a high five and got her face instead. I felt bad, but she said didn't mind the scratch since she knew I didn't mean to do it. Anyway, congratulations to the Duke basketball team on such a fabulous season and the championship. I am already looking forward to next year since I will be a seasoned fan.

Moving on, I did a good deed yesterday...I rescued a turtle. I was outside enjoying the evening spring weather when I spotted something on the ground. I became instantly interested and kept trying to get a better look....my mom said I was acting all "stalker like." She started yelling at me to come because she couldn't tell what it was....she said if it was a snake, we were moving. I think she thought it was a baby bunny or squirrel, but then she could see the shell of the turtle and relaxed. We put the turtle in a bucket, and then Mom took it to a nice wooded spot in our neighborhood- away from the road and near a stream. I wanted to keep it as a pet, but Mom said she had no idea what to do with a turtle, and it would probably prefer to live in the wild instead of in a house with crazy dogs. Anyway, I was proud of myself for helping the turtle find a better home.

Finally, don't forget to register for the Walk if you haven't already- http://www.apsofdurham.org/about-the-walk-for-the-animals/#more-6857. I am REALLY getting excited for it and look forward to seeing you there!

It is beautiful weather here this weekend, so Callie and I have once been outside a lot enjoying the spring here. I hope you have been able to do the same!

Baxter (woof woof!)

One Shining Moment!

Apologies for being out of touch. I am not allowed to use the computer by myself, and my mom has been busy lately which is why I haven't posted. However, she has promised me she will help more frequently, especially as we get closer to the Walk. I've missed talking to my peeps!

I am so pleased and proud to announce that the Tails at Twilight Gala raised over $85,000 this year (http://www.apsofdurham.org/2010-tails-at-twilight-gala/#more-9381)! This is tremendous, and these critical funds will allow the shelter to maintain its operations as well as make some much-need enhancements, including air conditioning the back kennels. If you have ever spent time in NC during the summer, you understand why this improvement is needed. A big thank you to everyone who worked so hard on the Gala as well as to those who attended and so generously opened their wallets. I am looking forward to an equally- if not more- successful fundraising effort with the Walk. The Gala was definitely a shining moment for the APS.

In other news, spring has definitely arrived. Callie and I have been enjoying more time outdoors, especially since my mom bought an umbrella for the deck. While my mom sometimes calls me a "sun god" because I like to bask in the warmth of sunshine, I am mindful of its harmful effects, and I do want to keep my youthful appearance. We spent a good part of yesterday enjoying the outdoors- see photos. I do have to say the pollen is a little annoying...it causes me to make this hacking noise which I don't think my mom and Callie enjoy hearing.

Finally, the real reason this post is titled "One Shining Moment" is that Duke is playing for the National Championship tonight, and this is the name of the theme song for the tournament. My mom has been singing it ever since she got home-- between us, she is a little off-key. Anyway, I'm not sure I get March Madness, but my mom is really excited about tonight's game. I slept through Saturday night's semifinal, but she says I need to stay awake tonight because if Duke wins, it will be history. Callie says she remembers the 2004 Final Four-- apparently, my mom actually went to the games and came home not a happy camper because Duke lost in the semifinals. Callie has told me we really need Duke to win because then Mom will be in a great mood which will mean good things (i.e. treats!) for us. So, in that spirit, Go Duke!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Oh What A Night!

My mom came home just raving about the Tails at Twilight Gala. Deborah (actually my grandmother but she prefers to be called Deborah) and my auntie came into town for the evening, and it was fun to have them visit. They all said everything was wonderful....the auction items were terrific, everyone was in a generous mood, and the evening was just a fantastic success. They are still tallying up the totals, and I will be sure to report back with the grand total of how much money was raised. In the meantime, a BIG and HEARTFELT thank you to everyone who attended and so generously opened their wallets as well as to those who donated items. Your support of the animals is amazing. My mom also said the APS was successful in raising over $15,000 for air conditioning in the back kennels. With summer coming, this is just a wonderful enhancement for the shelter...now the animals can rest in cool comfort instead of the hot summer air. Thank you, thank you!

I was sorry to miss the Gala, but I am really getting excited for the Walk. My mom says it is "go time" which means it is time to start the fundraising. The Walk is also critical for the APS to continue to serve the animals. Your dollars do make a difference, and I hope you are making plans to participate.

It is spring now which is so lovely. I spent a good part of the weekend outside playing with Callie and helping (or supervising, to be accurate) my mom clean up the yard. It is so nice to enjoy the spring air. We also watched a good bit of basketball as March Madness has griped my household. Ah, isn't this a splendid time of year?!

Well, gotta run...more to come soon!

Baxter (woof woof!)

On the eve of the eve of the BIG EVENT!

We are now 48 hours from Tails at Twilight, and I am THRILLED to say the event is sold out! To everyone who has bought tickets, thank you so much for supporting the APS. I know you are going to have a fabulous time at the auction. I have finally accepted that I am not going to be able to go since this is an "adults only" party...I understand, and I'm just hoping my mom will bring me a doggie bag of goodies.

In more good news, Stella was finally adopted after spending a year at the shelter. YEAH- I just LOVE these happy endings!!! Please click here to read about her new life http://www.apsofdurham.org/stella-4/#more-9231.

I saw the Walk promotional materials today with my picture on them. Ah, they are glorious! Yes, I know I am self-promoting here, but given this is my first marketing campaign, I think everything (i.e. ME) looks really good. I'm especially glad I went with the blue collar instead of the turquoise one since the blue collar looks great with the blue paw print logo. You should start seeing the posters around town, and I really hope you will participate in the Walk.

Finally, more good news (it is pouring in a GOOD way today!), the weather is supposed to be awesome this weekend...70s and sunny. Perfect for hanging out outside and enjoying spring. And, my mom just told me she is taking tomorrow off from work, which means Callie and I get more time to play over the next few days. Yippee!

Ok, I am off to watch March Madness and drink a cold one (actually, my mom said that, but it sounds cool)!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Busy week and hoops time!

Apologies for my lack of posting last week. It turned out to be a busy week although now I can't remember exactly what I did. The weather was nice in the early part of the week, and I actually went running with my mom. I enjoyed it, and she said I was very good. I ran in a straight line beside her (versus weaving back and forth in front of her which she says is dangerous), and it felt good to get some exercise. Now that it will stay lighter later, I hope she will take me more often.

This weekend was busy as well since it was the ACC Tournament. This is the first time I have experienced it, but I guess it is a very big event in this area. My mom actually went to the games while Callie and I cheered Duke on from home as we listened to the games on the radio. Callie and I were very excited Duke won and celebrated with my mom when she got home. I've included a couple of photos of me showing my Duke pride. Now, it is time for March Madness.

This is a belated shout-out, but one my mom's friends was in the half-time shot contest during the Duke-UNC game. David gave it a great effort even though he came up short. I hear David prefers kitty cats to dogs, but I will still congratulate him on a great effort.

Finally, less than one week to go before the APS' big evening. The last day to buy tickets is Tuesday, March 16th. You can purchase them at http://www.apsofdurham.org/tails-at-twilight-gala-tickets-on-sale/#more-8661. What better thing to do on a Saturday night than get dressed up and support the animals!

Happy spring!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Oscars, Schmoscars!

I watched the Oscars on Sunday night...did you?? I had never seen them before, but I was curious to see what "Hollywood's biggest night" was all about. Quite frankly, I didn't think the show was all that. I managed to stay awake until 10pm, but when they started giving out all the technical awards, I fell fast asleep. My mom tried to wake me when they awarded the BIG categories, but I was too far gone. Besides, I didn't really care that much, especially since I hadn't seen any of the nominated films. Maybe if "Hotel for Dogs" had been nominated, I would have cared more.

Now that I think about it, it seems like they should have a category for animal movies! Four-legged actors deserve some respect, too. Besides, I bet we would dress better than some of those celebrities. At least we wouldn't try to make our hair do unnatural things or go overboard on the spray tan. I heard some of those dresses cost THOUSANDS and THOUSANDS of dollars. I wouldn't have to spend a penny because my birthday suit would do just fine.

While Hollywood's biggest night may be the Oscars, the APS' is the Tails at Twilight Gala on March 20th. This is a VERY important night for the APS and its animals as the goal is to raise over $80,000. These funds are vitally critical to the APS' ability to care for all the animals that come through its doors. We REALLY want it to be a sell-out so please go to http://www.apsofdurham.org/tails-at-twilight-gala-tickets-on-sale/ to purchase your tickets now. It is an evening you don't want to miss!! I'm STILL trying to wrangle an invitation, especially since I heard they are serving beef short ribs....yum yum!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Game Day!

When I decided to blog about my life, I promised myself I would always be honest and tell it all- the good, the bad, and the ugly. Well, today I have to come clean about something, and I realize this revelation may upset some of my followers, but here it goes...I live in a DUKE household.

Yes, my mom is a Duke graduate and bleeds Duke blue. Apparently, today is a really big day as she keeps saying it is "Game Day." I have not fully comprehended what this means, but Callie says THE Game between Duke and Carolina takes place this evening, and my mom keeps saying that a Duke win would restore world order. I guess Callie has lived through both the emotional highs of when Duke wins this game (mom = good mood) and the lows of when they lose (mom = bad mood). Callie and I will be listening at home on the radio which is fine with me since I don't care much for hot and crowded places with lots of screaming people. My mom and Grandpa are going, though, and I know they will have fun. Anyway, may the best team win and since my mom feeds me, I have to add "go Blue Devils!"

On another note, you can check out some of the great auction items that will be available at the Tails at Twilight auction by going to http://www.apsofdurham.org/2010-live-auction-items/. I hope you have made your plans to attend! A big thank you to all the people who are working so hard to put together a successful event to benefit the animals.

Finally, don't forget the Walk is May 22nd. I am so excited about it and can't wait to attend (yes, this something I get to actually go to--- FINALLY!). The link to sign up is http://www.gifttool.com/athon/AthonDetails?ID=1942&AID=902. I look forward to seeing you there!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Is it spring yet??

Well, the weather this week in NC has been cold and rainy. We actually had a dusting of snow which wreaked havoc...it doesn't take much for Durham to go into panic mode when it comes to inclement weather. Schools are delayed, you can't find bread or milk in the grocery stores, and the television stations go to continuous coverage of the winter weather (they run the same stories over and over and over). I guess I get it, but unless the snow means Mom stays home from work, and we get to play, I could care less about the stuff.

We did have about 7 inches back in January. It was my first "official" snowfall since I don't really remember where I was last winter (not at the shelter yet). When I went outside, I was quite perplexed by the white wet stuff falling from the sky. However, then I realized I could romp around and play with Callie. I've included some photos here. The snow was fun for a few days, and then it started melting which meant A LOT of mud in the backyard. I'm not a fan of having my feet wiped, so when I would see my mom standing at the backdoor with a towel, I would take off. She didn't find it amusing as I did. She didn't understand why it was such a big deal to have my four paws wiped clean (she said it was not like I'm an octopus with EIGHT paws to wipe). Anyway, the muddy paw prints in the house didn't always go over so well, and that scary loud machine (I guess it is called a vacuum cleaner) made frequent appearances. Yeah, snow is fun in the beginning but not so fun when it starts melting and turns all sorts of funny colors.

Anyway, I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of spring when I can be outside more and take long walks with my mom and Callie. My walking skills need some work-- according to my mom-- so that is a project for spring. Plus, I think my love of treats has caught up with me a little, so I want to be sure I am beach-body ready for when summer arrives.

Happy almost Friday!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Happy Birthday, Aunt Jennifer...and get ready to party!

Callie, my mom, and I are sending out lots of birthday wishes to my Aunt Jennifer! She is the reason my mom has Callie-- when my mom was hemming and hawing over the decision, Aunt Jennifer called her and said "go get that dog!" When AJ came to visit, she brought me a yummy bone. AJ and her husband, Jay, are fellow animal lovers- they share their home with their dog, Bosco, and their cats, Lincoln, Tess, and Dexter. AJ, my mom just poured a big glass of wine and is toasting you on your special day!

Speaking of special days, please mark your calendar for the Tails at Twilight event on March 20th. No, this event has nothing to do with vampires and Team Jacob vs. Team Edward...it is a wonderful evening to raise critical funds for the APS. You can purchase tickets here-- http://www.apsofdurham.org/tails-at-twilight-gala/#more-7055. The evening is a great reason to put on your fanciest outfit, have some fun at the auction, and enjoy delicious food all in the name of a wonderful cause. I am trying to wrangle an invitation since I would LOVE to get all dressed up and check out the action. Plus, I know I would be oh-so-handsome in my tuxedo. However, my mom says I may be more than the Washington Duke wants to handle....hmmm....

Happy Monday!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Bon Appetit!

I LOVE food. Breakfast and dinner are my favorite times of the day. I'm always up for a snack. I am not picky about what I eat except I did NOT like these gourmet dog biscotti treats my mom once bought me and Callie. She said they were expensive, but I didn't care...as soon as I put the biscuit in my mouth, I promptly spit out. Expensive or not, they were NOT tasty.

Some of my favorite foods are apples, carrots, bread (yes, I am a carb addict...no Atkins diet for me), peanut butter, and cheese just to name a few. I like to help my mom cook (or more like check out what she is doing on the counter to see what is up there for me), but she doesn't find it so helpful and is always telling me to get down. In fact, she just made a tomato soup which smells yummy, but she told me repeatedly I cannot have any because it contains onions, which I guess are bad for dogs. Oh well.

Given that onions are bad for me-- as are many other people foods, I thought it might be helpful to post this link-- http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+1659&aid=1030-- as a reminder of what is unsafe to feed your pet. We are very sly when it comes to food, so it is important you keep toxic foods out of our reach no matter how much we may beg.

One of my favorite things was a dog birthday cake my mom made me and Callie for our birthdays. I watched my mom mix the batter, waited by the oven for it to bake, and then waited not-so-patiently for it to cool. While the wait was excruciatingly long, it was well worth it. The cake was SO yummy! And, the cake had turkey bacon as a topping which was an extra-special treat. I'm hoping we will start celebrating our half birthdays (or even quarter ones!) so we can have cake more often. The recipe is below.

Gosh, all this talk of food and cake has made me hungry....time to go see if I can use my cuteness to snag a doggie biscuit. Bon Appetit!

Baxter (woof woof!)

P.S. Check out Stella- one of the dogs currently at APS-- she looks a little like me, so I am really hoping she finds her forever home soon! http://www.apsofdurham.org/stella-2/#more-8209

Birthday Cake for dogs
1 1/2 cups All-Purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. Baking powder
1/4 cup Margarine, softened
1/4 cup Corn oil
1 Jar strained chicken
1 cup shredded carrots
3 Eggs
2 Strips bacon fried and crumbled
Plain yogurt for icing .

Sift flour and baking powder together; set aside. In large bowl, cream
margarine until smooth.
Add corn oil, baby food and eggs and carrots; mix until smooth, gradually
add flour and baking powder to the mixture and blend till smooth . Pour batter
into well-greased and floured 8 inch round pan.
Bake in a preheated 325F. oven 60-70 minutes. Let cool on wire rack a few
minutes before removing from pan.
Ice cake with yogurt or cottage cheese.
Add crumbled bacon bits to top of cake...and have a HAPPY Birthday party!!

Guest blogger....Callie Bennett!

Today, my sister, Callie, is doing the blog...she is the one really running this show!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Hi!

Thanks to Bax for letting me have a little of the limelight. People have been asking me and my mom if I am jealous of Baxter's new celebrity status. Honestly, not in the least! I am excited for him, but I've never enjoyed being the center of attention (unless it is my mom's). Besides, I know I am the perfect one!

My story is very similar to Baxter's. I also had a rough start in life...I was left on the side of the road with my mom and my litter mates. Fortunately, someone picked us up and took us the Chatham County shelter where I was then put into foster care. This wonderful lady named Katie-- my mom says she is an angel given how many dogs she fosters...in the double digits!-- took me and my family to her house. I was VERY shy...at the adoption events, I would hide in the corner when people came to meet me. As a result, no one was overly interested in me until my mom came along and saw my true potential.


Anyway, some friends of my mom's had just adopted a dog from Katie's organization and volunteered at one of the adoption events. They encouraged my mom to come meet me at Katie's. Fortunately, my mom decided I was the dog for her. I have to give shout-outs here to Courtney and Tony for arranging the introduction as well as to my Aunt Jennifer who finally convinced my mom to adopt me. I know that my mom and I are forever indebted to you all for bringing us together!

I enjoyed 7 1/2 years as an only dog. My mom talked about getting a second dog but didn't pull the trigger until she fell in love with those damn ears (I know I shouldn't make fun given my own ears are not exactly proportional to the rest of me but have you seen Baxter's?? They are UNREAL!). At first, it was an adjustment having Baxter around- no more peace and quiet...you know puppy energy. But, after he figured out that I set the rules and started listening to me, we have settled into a fun routine. I enjoy having someone to play bitey face with, and he makes me look SO good since he misbehaves way more often than I do. I have taught him everything he knows. All in all, he has been a good addition to our household, and I have to confess he is pretty darn charming.

Like Baxter, I was very lucky to find my forever home and feel so loved. While starting out on the streets is never easy, there are success stories out there, and Baxter and I are perfect examples. If you have a rescue dog and/or support rescue organizations, such as the APS of Durham, thank you. Your support makes such a difference in the lives of the animals that desperately need your help.

In honor of Spay Day, I close with the wise words of Bob Barker, please remember to spay and neuter your pets (http://www.apsofdurham.org/resources/spay-neuter/). Ok, Baxter is bugging me to get off this computer and play...time to run! Cheers!

Callie McGraw Bennett

Spokesdog Photo Shoot...SMILE!

Hope you are enjoying a wonderful weekend. This weather is a welcome relief from the cold and rain. I've spent time outside which has been so nice. And, the backyard has dried up considerably, so I'm not tracking in as much mud which is making my mom happy.

A lot of people have asked me what I was doing when I heard I was going to be the 2010 APS Spokesdog. I wish I could say I was doing something fun like chasing squirrels or sleeping in the sun. Truth be told, I was actually recovering from a root canal. Yep, I broke off the tip of one of my "fang" teeth which is a bad (and expensive) thing. I don't remember my mom telling me the news because I was under the influence of anaesthesia. It wasn't until about 24 hours later that I could bask in the glory of my win (did you know I received 85% of the vote?!) and enjoy all the congratulations that came my way.

One of the first things I had to do was have my photo taken for the Walk publicity materials. We did the photo shoot at the shelter, and it was the first time I had been back there since I went into foster care. I enjoyed seeing old friends, and it was fun to see Kari again (she takes all the photos of the animals for the APS website, so she took the one that made my mom fall in my love with my ears- I've included it here). I think the pictures came out quite well-- I've included some, so you can see what a natural I am at posing.

It was fun to feel like a true coverboy for an afternoon; however, being "on" for the camera can be quite tiring, so I don't think I am ready for the red carpet lifestyle quite yet. I'm just glad I don't have a "toothy smile" so you can't see I am missing the tip of one of my teeth. I just hope my cuteness inspires people to participate in the Walk.

One final note....my visit to the shelter reminded me just how fortunate I was to wind up there instead of being left on the streets. However, when we pulled into our neighborhood, I looked at my mom with adoration and gratitude for giving me a better life (she says she will always remember that look on my face). While the shelter provides a wonderful safe haven for animals, the ultimate goal is ALWAYS to find them forever homes. My visit to the shelter reminded me just how lucky I am!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Love Will Keep Us Together!

This is a song from the 70s by Captain and Tennille. Even though I have NO idea who they are (my mom said they were the first concert she ever attended), this song seems appropriate since it was just Valentine's Day.

Love was definitely in the air at the annual Meet Your Match event held at the shelter this past Saturday. I am THRILLED to hear what a success it was. Over 100 people attended, and 17 (yes, 17!) animals were adopted which is just simply AMAZING. A BIG thank you to the shelter staff and volunteers who worked so hard.
You can read more at
http://www.apsofdurham.org/love-was-in-the-air/#more-8634 and see some photos. To the animals that were adopted-- congratulations on finding your forever homes. To the adopters--thank you for opening your hearts to these deserving animals.

I leave you today with these wise words from Captain and Tennille-- "look in my heart and let love keep us together." This worked out well for me in finding my forever home and for 17 other animals on Saturday!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Welcome to my blog!

Hello! Thanks for taking time to check out my blog. I am very excited to be the 2010 APS Spokesdog...it is an honor for me. Please check back from time to time as I tell you what it is like to be a local celebrity as well as let you know about a lot of great things happening at the APS of Durham (www.apsofdurham.org).

But, first, read below for more about me. This is the essay I wrote for the Spokesdog contest...it will give you a sense of me, my history, and why I believe the APS is so important. Enjoy!

Baxter (woof woof!)

Why I should be the APS Spokesdog

Before I tell you why I should be the APS Spokesdog, it is important you know a couple of things about me. First, while I may be the picture of health and happiness now, life didn't start out too great for me. Second, my ears do not act like radars nor can I use them to fly like Dumbo. People ask me these questions ALL the time! However, my ears did give me a chance to find my forever home...more on that in a bit, though.

I don't remember my first 6 months of life although I think I spent a good part of it on the streets. One day, a nice person in a white truck came and picked me up. I was unsure where we were going, but I trusted it had to be better than living outside and not knowing if and when I would get my next meal. The person took me to this place I heard people call "the shelter." While overwhelming in many ways with so many people and dogs around (gosh were some of them loud!), I was no longer outside, I was fed, and I had a blanket. There were also nice people who played with me and walked me. I heard people talk about "forever homes" and even saw a few dogs leave the shelter with their new families, but I could only dream it would happen to me.

A few weeks later, I went to a foster home where I received tremendous love and attention. I also learned to interact with people and how to behave in a house. I thought I was quite lucky to be given the chance to learn how to be a good pet versus a dog of the streets. After I had been there awhile-- adopted once only to be brought back (a bummer at first but turned out to be a blessing in disguise), this lady my foster mom called "Heather" came to visit. When Heather first arrived, she made some comment about how she just HAD to see my ears in person after seeing them in photos on the APS website. At first I was offended-- could she not see past my ears to the real me?? The real me that was sweet, smart, and looking for a forever home?? I was a tad offended by this superficial attitude, but I let it slide since this lady seemed nice enough. Little did I know...

Fast forward a few weeks, and I found myself living in Heather's home with her dog, Callie. I had my forever home!!! Now I have unconditional love (even when my behavior slips), daily walks, a fenced-in yard to play in, more toys than I can possibly destroy, and food...plus treats (I LOVE apples!). I worship my "sister" Callie and and think my mom is the best. Of course, she is typing this, so I have to be complimentary here if I want an evening snack. When I was in the shelter, I dreamed of finding such a place to call home, and I was lucky enough to find it. While my ears were often the source of amusement for some people and name-calling (bat dog comes to mind!), they actually served me well. My mom always says it was my ears she couldn't resist, and then I knew how to play on her weak spot, so she would choose me. Smart guy I am...dogs can have brains AND good looks.

But, I digress...the real point of this is to tell you why I should be the APS Spokesdog. Bottom line: the APS saved my life. When I was a stray, the APS took me in and gave me shelter, comfort, and food. The kind people at the shelter were literally lifesavers, and I can never repay that debt. By being the Spokesdog, however, I can help other animals in need by raising critical funds for the shelter. I know there is something called the "economy" which is hurting everyone and makes raising money for the APS all the more pressing. Without the APS, I probably would not be here today-- I don't like to think about what might have happened to me if I had been left on the streets. However, the APS gave me a new chance at life, and I'm the perfect success story for the organization. I want to help animals by representing all that they are and all that they can become if they are just given a chance. I can think of no better way for me to say "thank you" then if selected as the APS Spokesdog and being the "face" for the animals that so desperately need as much help as they can get. I would love the opportunity to proudly represent the APS of Durham and all the good it does for the thousands of animals that come through its doors every year.

Besides who can say no to giving money when they see my ears???