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!)